What is the difference between an EPIRB and a PLB?
An EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) sends a digital message to a satellite, which then bounces it to a search and rescue location, for example, the Coastguard. EPIRBs operate on differing frequencies depending on the use of the boat and give an accurate position whether manually or automatically operated. A PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) is a small transmitter that gives a position of the person but it is not as powerful as an EPIRB. A PLB is often worn like a watch by divers.
