EPIRB info

Submitted: Friday, Jun 10, 2005 at 13:58

ThreadID: 23755 Views:2645 Replies:2 FollowUps:2

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signman

There has ben some discussion lately on epirbs, so as a prospective purchaser I thought I would check out some facts. Based on the GME brands
The MT300 (and the MT310 personnal)both operate on 121.5 & 243 mHz. Prices respectively from BIAS boating are $198.90 & $238.90.
The MT 400 operates on the 406mHz frequency, and priced at $569.00.
For those suggesting a honeymoon period at the changeover- the answer is a definite NO. It will be the same as mobile phone- switched off on the day proposed in Feb 2009.
However, I will be opting for the MT300 as I'm sure the 406mHz models will come down in price at or after changeover & beside that the batterys are rated for 4-5 years anyway.

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Reply By: Member - Beatit (QLD) - Friday, Jun 10, 2005 at 14:20

Friday, Jun 10, 2005 at 14:20

G'day signman,

"switched off on the day proposed in Feb 2009. " That's nearly 5 years away! almost retired by then (7/2010) and I still reckon my retirement will come first. If not, then it'll be the first purchase out of my super.

Kind regards

AnswerID: 115246

Reply By: Member - Banjo (SA) - Friday, Jun 10, 2005 at 15:45

Friday, Jun 10, 2005 at 15:45

Is not the BIG issue with the expensive, new 406 mHz units that they carry digital encoding to identify the owner ? That is, you set it off, and the authorities can quickly determine WHO owns it ? As I understand it, the authorities can then phone the registed numbers and see if they can verify from someone at home that the user is indeed in the indicated area. Whatever........

AnswerID: 115262

Follow Up By: Member -Dodger - Friday, Jun 10, 2005 at 15:49

Friday, Jun 10, 2005 at 15:49

I also believe that the new one actually sends the co-ordinates as well.
Please correct me if I am wrong.

I used to have a handle on life, but it broke.

Cheers Dodg.

Lifetime Member
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Follow Up By: peterK - Friday, Jun 10, 2005 at 16:14

Friday, Jun 10, 2005 at 16:14

Dodger
The new system 406 only sends your position if it is intergrated with a GPS unit or has one in it (GPIRB)
A really good link that explains everything is the
AMSA Beacon Information Page
It is managed by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority

To see an example of one with the GPS have a look at the ACR EPIRB PLB 406 Personal Locator Beacon with GPS Interface

Acer with GPS

Pete

FollowupID: 371004