Re: [Paddlewise] Spot by Globestar

> > Alternatives to bSpotb include EPIRBs.  The economy priced EPIRBs
provide a locating capability of a 2.5km search area and a 2 hour response
time.  This is slow and comparatively inefficient.  The more expensive GPS
enabled EPIRBs are $1000 or more.
*****************************

Perhaps they cost over $1000 years ago, when were first introduced, but now it
costs no more than $500 http://www.landfallnavigation.com/aquafix.html .
I think, Ebay stores sell ACR *Fix (AquaFix, TerraFix, AeroFix - they are the
same, only colour is different) for less than $350.

I also think this is not true that  ACR I/O (with internal GPS) has a locating
capability 2.5 km. It transmits your GPS coordinates, and they should be
within 50 m accuracy in most areas.

EPIRB response time depends on where on this big planet you are. Some places
do not have any SAR services, to speak of. So you'll have to wait - with ANY
transmitted coordinates, by ANY device - until those who received it will
relay the info to those who are able or have a duty to perform search and
rescue. It can be days in some places until somebody will be able to reach
you, due to weather, terrain, limited local resources and other reasons.

Unlike SPOT, EPIRB transmits your current coordinates non-stop, changing
coordinates if you're moving, after you've activated it and until the batttery
is gone, which is from 20 to 36 hours depending on water temperature.  Don't
remember now, but I recall ACR used to have some "homing" signal used on short
distances to better pinpoint your location. Probably, not important feature
with current WAAS accuracy og GPS satellites.

The only reason for me to delaying the purchase is that I find it a little
bulky and wait until they come up with something smaller.
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