The rescueME operates at the current industry standard frequency of 406 MHz. Older PLBs operated on the 121.5 MHz international distress frequency, which is no longer monitored by international search and rescue organisations because it was only effective over a much smaller area and lacked positional data. Additionally, this beacon has GPS information that can help rescuers locate me, typically to within a few metres (2 yards). Additionally, a 121.5 transmitter is provided so that search teams can use it to locate their targets.
The rescueME PLB1 is tiny, measuring only 75 x 51 x 32.5 mm (2.95 x 2 x 1.28″). The extendable antenna can be retracted by turning a little knob on the top of the device, which also displays information on the battery’s expiration date. A little, black plastic component that appears to be a switch but is actually the antenna is located on the upper left side of the device. By pulling on the black portion, a length of flexible metal that resembles a tape measure but is unmarked is extended. The antenna’s full extension measures 25 cm (10″).
I hope I never need to utilise the incredibly compact safety gear known as the Ocean Signal rescueME PLB1. It is small, lightweight, and simple to attach to a variety of items of clothing or equipment. The beacon’s relatively small footprint makes it possible for me to carry it around instead of fixing it to anything, which is the best option for preserving my life. The price of this unit is comparable to that of the larger units, and it offers comparable performance and for this reason, makes our top list of PLB’s for Australia.
