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Will the TracMe Locator Beacon replace the function of the current 121.5 mHz or the 406 mHz distress beacons?

April 26, 2017Beacon Beacons distress function locator MHz replace TracMe

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Will the TracMe Locator Beacon replace the function of the current 121.5 mHz or the 406 mHz distress beacons?

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Absolutely NOT. These distress beacons (or satellite PLBs) operate by sending a signal to a satellite which relays this to a central search and rescue office. When activated, a satellite PLB will automatically instigate an international search and rescue effort. This makes satellite PLBs suitable mainly for use by shipping and aircraft, and unsuitable for use in general outdoor activities by the public. The way in which the TracMe Locator Beacon operates makes it far more affordable, and suitable for use by the general public. Because satellite PLBs need to transmit to a satellite they are 5 to 10 times more expensive than a TracMe Locator Beacon.