EPIRB now redundant...?

75 troopy,

posted some info on this a few weeks ago. Looks to be a good peice of kit. It would be interesting to see how well it works in Aus ie support and redirection of contact of emergency services within aus. Its definitely covered satellite wise.

Im planning on doing some more investigation in the coming weeks, just got to get exams out the way first

Good find tho,

Mike

I understand international aviation SAR (search &rescue) are driving this system. Saves heaps compared to the old system of complex search patterns....silverback

I had a look at the Web site.


Seems the answer to every thing if as good as it says,

Replace EPIRB, Sat Phone (if only used for emergencies) even perhaps HF if also used for emergencies.

Any way lets hope it is as it is definitely a good option - may be
and that it does not cost a fortune.

A close read of the "Terms and Conditions" reveals that it uses the Globalstar uplink to connect to the emergency services.
We all know how reliable that is!!!
They also take no responsibility for poor coms, lost messages etc etc.
Might wait and see how they go, certainly couldn't be relied upon at least in Oz.

No, it will definitely not make EPIRBs redundant.

A GPS enabled 406 EPIRB will let emergency service know your position to within a few metres within minutes - not wait for the next satellite pass.

When aircraft are sent to search for you, they will be able to home in on the 121.5 signal that all 406 EPIRBs put out.

All of this is supported by an international system designed for reliability, not to make a profit using a commercial satellite network.

* I have one *
So am not guessing on this :-)

I have only done some preliminary tests, however...
- It works happily in Oz and with Oz credit cards for subs
- It uses the L data system, not the problematic S voice system of GlobalStar
- It presents an accuracy of around 6-10m (enough in my book)
- In help and 911 it can provide a constantly updating GPS location, so no real need to home in on a signal - just follow a GPS fix
- It provides a level of communication other than the binary - off / get everything here now - option of an EPIRB
- Allows 3 levels of check-in - OK simple check-in, Pan-pan style HELP and finally 911 mayday level.
- Limited user variable notification and messaging
- User serviceable (double-edged sword?) on the battery front
- Good coverage in Oz and elsewhere
- No excuses for seeing the dolly bird when you've said you're off-road :-)

Will advise about any experience updates. No, I don't have shares, just like it so far.

Thought for discussion - it allows emails to be sent for Pan-Pan style messages - would Exploroz or clubs consider accepting these (as part of the 5 you can email) to provide an ad-hoc assistance to known guests (members only?)

Any other thoughts?

Cheers,

T