What is the difference between a PLB and an EPIRB?
A PLB, standing for personal locator beacon, is person-bound and carried by you; an EPIRB belongs to the ship and is kept in a fixed bracket on board. A PLB is smaller and lighter, has a shorter operating life, and must always be activated manually. For commercial shipping, an EPIRB is mandatory, while a PLB serves as a personal supplement.
Are there subscription fees?
No, you do not need a subscription. Registration of the beacon is free, and in most of the world, rescue operations are also free of charge.
Do I need to register my PLB?
Yes, that is mandatory. In the Netherlands, you register a PLB with the Authority for Digital Infrastructure (RDI). Unlike an EPIRB, you do not need an operating certificate for a PLB. Keep your information up to date and have the beacon transferred to the new owner's name upon sale.
How long does the battery last?
The battery lasts for five years and must be replaced after that, or sooner if you have used the beacon in an emergency. Replacement may only be performed by an ACR-authorized service center, as the unit must be fully re-tested afterward.
Does the beacon work anywhere in the world?
p>Yes. A 406 MHz beacon works anywhere in the world, including both poles. You do need a clear view of the sky, so it will not work inside a building or in a cave.
What exactly does Return Link Service mean?
RLS is a confirmation message sent back to your beacon once the rescue chain has received your distress signal and determined your position. This confirmation typically arrives within ten to twenty minutes. It does not mean a rescue operation is already underway, only that your notification has been received and forwarded to the appropriate authority.
What is the difference compared to the ResQLink 410 RLS?
The View RLS has a digital display that shows a confirmation message and your GPS coordinates in addition to the blue light. Furthermore, it has a 28-hour operating life versus 24 hours or more, and it comes with ACR Skins included.
