ACR Electronics, Inc. has introduced a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) – the MicroFix, a one-button activated, emergency signaling device for hunters, pilots, hikers, climbers and outdoorsmen. The MicroFix, which has just received FCC approvals, is 35% smaller and 25% lighter than its predecessor, the ACR TerraFix, a PLB that aided in the rescue of a number of distressed outdoors enthusiasts around the world over the course of the last two years. The suggested MSRP for the MicroFix is $750 and is available through outdoor dealers and retailers throughout the U.S.
Weighing in at 10 oz (285 g), the MicroFix is easily carried in a pack or pocket and is small enough to be worn by hunters, skiers, hikers, kayakers, climbers, snowmobilers or any outdoor enthusiasts looking for a reliable way-out-of-trouble in a life-threatening situation. A lanyard and clip provide functionality and allow for multiple mounting options.
In an emergency, the MicroFix transmits on 406 MHz via the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system with the sender’s unique registered, digitally coded distress signal. Emergency officials monitoring the system not only will be able to tell who is sending the signal but precisely where the signal is coming from as a result of the built-in GPS engine. The beacon’s highly-sensitive, built-in -136 dBm GPS receiver provides for faster acquisition, a bonus in any rescue where every second counts.
Once activated by a single button, the MicroFix’s built-in 12 channel, parallel GPS acquires, then transmits LAT/LON, dramatically saving valuable time for the distress message to reach local rescue centers with exact coordinates to within 110 yards (100 meters). The MicroFix™ also simultaneously transmits a signal on the 121.5 MHz (SAR homing frequency) to assist rescuers home in once in the general area.
A PLB/P-EPIRB/P-ELT 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 grave and imminent and the loss of life, limb, eyesight or valuable property will occur without assistance. All beacons must be registered following purchase– a simple and quick process, now with a web-base internet filing option. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) manages the registration database in the U.S. for all PLBs, EPIRBs and related beacons.