Choosing an EPIRB

timbo69, Sep 21, 5:36pm
Other than the size there does not seem to much difference other than price, They all seem to have GPS these days - why would you pay for a more one over a $350 one?

martin11, Sep 21, 5:41pm
Automatic operation or Aircraft certified unit ?

johotech, Sep 21, 6:14pm
What do you get for $350? I haven't seen any that cheap.

Do you really mean EPIRB or PLB?

slarty45, Sep 21, 6:23pm
A new GPS EPIRB is tiny compared to this 20 year old one lurking in spare room. Not much change from $10k
https://trademe.tmcdn.co.nz/photoserver/full/647648305.jpg

timbo69, Sep 21, 7:01pm

timbo69, Sep 21, 7:02pm

serf407, Sep 21, 8:03pm
Few views for BSNZ's video on epribs relative to the number of NZ boat users.
https://youtu.be/98Q1wQHhGNY Some of the more expensive epirbs let you know that your signal has been received, but ideally read the manuals on any epirbs you are considering for purchase. Battery lasts for 48 hours of signal for many models, intrepid travellers might probably want 2 epirbs (of different brands?) to switch on an additional unit if rescue is going to be a long time coming or the first unit does not work or is damaged in the accident or unrecovered in the accident etc https://www.mcmurdogroup.com/mcmurdo-products/mcmurdo-smartfind-e5-epirb-manual-bracket/ (406 and 121.5 MHz)

There was a North American recall on one product.
http://www.maritime-executive.com/article/coast-guard-warns-of-recall-on-emergency-beacon and NZ https://www.consumer.org.nz/articles/recall-gme-emergency-radio-beacons

rsr72, Sep 21, 10:40pm
Mini PLB's are great for attaching onto life vests.
Look for longest battery life.
Some require replacement at shorter intervals.

timbo69, Jan 13, 4:45am
Thanks for heads up on batteries, A quick look would suggest they are 5-7 years on the battery? I assume they can be changed ? at some cost?