How to Choose Between a PLB and a Satellite Messenger 185
by Admin
Posted on 26-10-2023 11:25 AM
While many people consider unplugging to be an essential part of immersing themselves in the natural world, it’s also true that there might come a
time
when one truly needs to call for help. Smartphones, which are seemingly in-hand 24/7, are a tempting solution, but 911 networks offer limited connectivity in ma nature’s domain. When you’re on an outdoor adventure, plbs and satellite messengers are your two best options for sending distress signals.
To compile this review, we started by carefully selecting the top models of satellite messenger and personal locator beacons. It's usually impossible for us to satisfactorily test every product on the market for a particular category. With plbs and satellite messengers, though, there aren't many options available, and we can test nearly every device. Especially in the two-way satellite messaging device sub-category, we've worked to get every single new option in our hands. The end result is a set of tested products that represent essentially all of the available satellite communication options currently on the market. From there, we purchased and activated these beacons and put them to the test for hundreds of hours, side-by-side, in several distinct situations and locations.
When you’re on the hunt for the best plb, you may discover a device called a spot messenger, or satellite messenger. While both spot messengers and plbs have their place, there are some remarkable differences between the two.
Whether you're backpacking, backcountry skiing or adventuring out of service range, a satellite messenger, gps device or personal locator beacon (plb) for your outdoor pursuits is important. After all, your safety is on the line. But choosing the right one for your needs can be difficult. We looked at 28 units, from garmin to spot and everything in between, compiling the top professional and user reviews, and comparing models side-by-side for weight, budget, battery life, communication capabilities and subscription costs. The result: our top winners for the best personal locator beacons and two-way satellite messengers for every kind of user.
PLBs vs. Satellite Messengers
What is a satellite messenger?
satellite messengers have the sos feature of a plb but add on tracking and two-way messaging for users who want to be connected while backcountry exploring. They are ideal for hikers and backpackers who travel to remote areas where there is no mobile phone coverage and want to stay in contact with friends and family at home.
(a map of spot's coverage)
how does a satellite messenger work?
unlike the plbs which use the government-backed sarsat satellite network and sar resources, the satellite messengers use a commercial satellite network (iridium or globalstar) and a private sector response center to handle emergency calls.
Unlike the plbs which use the government-backed sarsat satellite network and sar resources, the satellite messengers use a commercial satellite network (iridium or globalstar) and a private sector response center to handle emergency calls. Emergency calls with gps data are sent to the satellite network and immediately routed to a 24/7 command center. The command center then contacts local sar to initiate a search and rescue. Because they use commercial systems to provide sos features and more, the satellite messengers require a monthly or yearly subscription on top of their purchase price. The most significant difference between a plb and a satellite messenger is messaging.
Different types of beacons are available for emergency situations. The traditional type, plbs, only sends a distress signal when the user requires assistance. On the other hand, satellite messengers provide additional features, such as text messaging and social media linking capabilities, which can be beneficial for individuals participating in activities like long-distance hiking. The downside is that they require a monthly subscription fee and rechargeable batteries. Emergency position indicating radio beacon (epirb) serves the same purpose as a plb but with distinct differences, including size, battery life, and design. Epirbs are larger and are often mounted on boats or marine vessels, while plbs are smaller and can be worn or kept in a bag or kit.