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Topic: PLB --- ACR 2881 ResQLink+  (Read 1313 times)

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NowhereMan

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This PLB sells for about $250 (maybe a bit cheaper some places online), and there is currently a $50 mail in rebate, so I got one today. It attaches nicely to the shoulder of my PFD, where it's completely out of the way and not even noticeable, and in case it ever falls in the water, it floats. Now I just hope that I never have to use it...
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FishingForTheCure

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NowhereMan

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Here's a link for those looking for easy access to see/find one locally.

http://www.westmarine.com/buy/acr-electronics--resqlink-buoyant-personal-locator-beacon--13381207

I got mine at West Marine in Santa Cruz. They didn't have this particular model on display, just the almost identical non-floating one which is the same price (and easily confused by easily confused people such as me), but they did have it in stock. The "+" (model 2881) is the floating version.
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RBark

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I had one for a bit, but I prefer my VHF DSC radio. It serves as both radio and a on-water PLB.
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NowhereMan

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I had one for a bit, but I prefer my VHF DSC radio. It serves as both radio and a on-water PLB.

I've got that (DSC) on my radio too but, as I understand it, it's not really comparable to a PLB. I believe the DSC message is sent over VHF, so it's essentially line-of-sight. In contrast, the PLB is satellite-based, so it'll work anywhere, provided you can see the sky.
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E Kayaker

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I just bought an inreach. It is satellite based, allows for a GPS location emergency distress call and you can use it to send and receive text and email. i like being able to stay in touch with my family when I'm out of cell service up the coast.
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FishingForTheCure

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I had one for a bit, but I prefer my VHF DSC radio. It serves as both radio and a on-water PLB.

I've got that (DSC) on my radio too but, as I understand it, it's not really comparable to a PLB. I believe the DSC message is sent over VHF, so it's essentially line-of-sight. In contrast, the PLB is satellite-based, so it'll work anywhere, provided you can see the sky.
You are correct.


AlexB

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After reading all these horror stories lately, I'm in the market for a PLB. Just never know when the sh*t's gonna hit the fan...

Is this ACR the one with the internal battery that you never charge or replace? I'm not sure how I feel about that...


FishingForTheCure

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Just looked it up.  They specify a 'service' of the unit:

FBRS 2880 & 2881 Battery Replacement Service - PLB-375 ResQLink/ResQLink+

For:  ResQLink/ResQLink+

Includes: 1103 Battery, Parts, Labor and Test Verification Report

ACR EPIRB batteries should be replaced every 5 years to ensure proper functioning when needed. Turnaround time for EPIRB services averages three days from receipt when all components are in stock.

Battery replacement service for PLBs includes a full physical integrity check, pressure test, data transmission test, replacement of seal and o-rings, installation of the new battery, and disposal of the old battery.

MSRP $169 on this service job.

   On something like this, I think its a great idea that it is getting a full service tune up rather than just plugging it in to recharge or changing a set of AA batteries.  Yeah, its a bit costly but it comes down to about $25/year for the peace of mind & security (based on the current online price I found for this service of about $120)

   


AlexB

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I'm just a little weary of needing to replace the battery after X number of tests. Much like a radio check, I'd like to confirm its working before each session. I think I recall it was good for 12 tests before needing a new battery? So that's $169 for every 10 or 12 kayak sessions?

I guess it's hard to put a price tag on peace of mind...


FishingForTheCure

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No, you just replace every 5 years per their protocol.

Based on their manual, it would allow for 60 tests in the 5 year period in addition to its regular operation.  You could test 1x a month then.  That, for me, would be reasonable.
« Last Edit: November 16, 2015, 06:54:07 PM by FishingForTheCure »


AlexB

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Thanks for clarifying. Seems I remembered the numbers incorrectly.


FishingForTheCure

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Thanks for clarifying. Seems I remembered the numbers incorrectly.
Right numbers, just multiply by 5 :smt002


AlexB

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Ah. There are two 12s buried in there. 12 per year for 5 years, and 12 of the more thorough tests.

That seems very reasonable. I'll check them out next time I'm at West Marine.

I also like that the test feature gets disabled automatically so you can't drain your battery too far without realizing.
« Last Edit: November 17, 2015, 07:49:02 AM by AlexB »


 

anything