Ocean Signal rescueME PLB1 Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is a compact, manually activated emergency transmitter for marine, aviation, and land-based outdoor activities. Upon activation, it transmits the user's position and beacon ID via the global Cospas-Sarsat system, allowing the alarm to be forwarded to a rescue coordination center. The service requires neither a subscription nor ongoing usage fees.
The emergency signal is transmitted on 406.040 MHz with a typical output power of 5 W. The integrated 121.5 MHz homing beacon assists rescue units with final localization. A 66-channel GPS receiver provides position data, while the white LED strobe light, with a typical brightness of around 1 candela, enhances visual localization.
The PLB1 can be operated with one hand. The retractable antenna is prepared by pulling it out completely, after which the spring-loaded protective flap is lifted and the activation button is held down for one second. The protective flap reduces the risk of accidental activation, and the emergency message is only transmitted after approximately 50 seconds, allowing for an erroneous activation to be canceled. After deactivation, the antenna is retracted using the knob on top and must not be pushed directly into the housing.
The unit measures 77 × 51 × 32.5 mm and weighs 116 g. It is waterproof down to 15 m and operates at temperatures from -20 °C to +55 °C. The built-in LiMnO₂ battery has a 7-year replacement interval and provides more than 24 hours of operation at -20 °C after activation. The battery must be replaced after its expiration date or after any emergency activation and may only be serviced by an authorized battery replacement center.
The PLB1 can be attached to a belt, clothing, or personal safety equipment using the cradle/clip system and rubber strap. It can also be placed in or attached to a life jacket by following the life jacket’s installation instructions. The standard version does not float without a separate flotation pouch and is not intended to transmit while submerged. During use above water, the unit must be kept clear of the water, placed flat with the radio antenna vertical, and the area marked for the GPS antenna must be unobstructed.
The device has separate functions for general self-test and GPS test. A general self-test is recommended once a month, while a GPS test should be performed no more than once a year and is limited to 10 tests over the battery's lifespan. The PLB must be registered with the relevant national beacon authority using its 15-digit HEX ID/UIN. The standard warranty is 2 years and can be extended by an additional 3 years upon product registration within 90 days of purchase.
Key FeaturesManually activated 406 MHz personal locator beacon
Global Cospas-Sarsat coverage with no subscription
406.040 MHz transmitter with typical 5 W output power
121.5 MHz homing beacon for local search
Integrated 66-channel GPS receiver
White LED strobe light of approximately 1 candela
More than 24 hours of operation at -20 °C
Waterproof down to 15 m
Retractable antenna and spring-loaded protective flap
Compact dimensions of 77 × 51 × 32.5 mm and weight of 116 g
