What is the difference between emergency beacons that operate at 121.5 MHz and those that operate at 406 MHz?
121.5 MHz beacons transmit an analog signal that can only be detected by low-earth, or polar orbiting satellites. The analog signal does not contain any information about the beacon or its user. Alternatively, 406 MHz beacons transmit a digital signal that contains information on the type of beacon and owner. Additionally, 406 MHz beacons can be linked to registration information that can provide search and rescue forces valuable information when responding to a distress signal. More information on the difference between 121.5 and 406 MHz beacons is available under the “Phase-Out of 121.5 MHz Satellite Alerting” section below. Click here to see a 121.5 MHz vs.
Related Questions
- What is the difference between emergency beacons that operate at 121.5 MHz and those that operate at 406 MHz?
- If satellite alerting is terminated then how will alerting take place for 121.5 MHz emergency beacons?
- Some 121.5 MHz emergency beacons also transmit on 243.0 MHz, will this frequency also be phased-out?
