ACR ResQLink™ World’s Smallest 406 MHz GPS Personal Locator Beacon: Now FCC Approved
OutdoorHub 07.25.11
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL ACR Electronics today announced that ResQLink™, the world’s smallest 406 MHz Personal
Locator Beacon (PLB), is FCC approved and is now being shipped to dealers and is for sale to consumers in the U.S. International approvals to follow.
Manufactured by ACR Electronics, part of Cobham Commercial Systems, the ResQLink™ is small and light enough to hold comfortably in one hand yet powerful enough to guide rescuers to within 100 meters or less of the user’s position in a life-threatening emergency.
At just 4.6 oz (130 g) and 3.9 in (10.0 cm) tall, the ResQLink™ offers a lot of punch in the smallest and lightest package available today. It combines ease of use and ACR technology to give pilots, boaters, and outdoors enthusiasts a powerful and accurate safety companion, ready for action at the simple push of a button.
Add the 406Link.com™ subscription service (www.406link.com) and ResQLink™ can be tested through the Cospas Sarsat satellite system, assuring owners their beacon is ready when needed.
With three levels of integrated signal technology-GPS positioning, a powerful 406 MHz signal, and 121.5 MHz homing capability the ResQLink™, with its reusable antenna, quickly and accurately relays critical emergency position to the Cospas-Sarsat International worldwide network of rescue satellites.
The waterproof ResQLink™ broadcasts a unique registered distress signal that not only tells rescuers where the sender is, but who they are. The on board 66 channel GPS can quickly fix the sender’s position to within 100 meters and then utilizes a powerful 406 MHz signal to relay the distress call to orbiting satellites. As local Search and Rescue is deployed, a separate homing signal and integrated LED strobe light guide rescuers to the sender’s exact position.
Two built-in tests allow users to routinely verify that the ResQLink™ is functioning and ready for use‹with the push of a button, users can easily test internal electronics and GPS functionality. Advances in circuit board design and power management have allowed for a smaller battery pack and continuously operating strobe.
A PLB is a satellite-signaling device of last resort, for use when all other means of self-rescue have been exhausted and
where the situation is deemed to be grave and imminent, and the loss of life, limb, eyesight or valuable property will occur without assistance. All beacons must be registered. There are no monthly service fees required for 406 MHz beacons.
The MSRP for the ResQLink™ is $325.00. For more information please contact Chris Wahler at chris.wahler@cobham.com or go to www.acrelectronics.com.
