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To: Maurice Winn who wrote (86449)	1/27/2012 3:42:42 AM
From: Snowshoe	Respond to of 218210

I am still evaluating PLB vs. SPOT, and need to ask my local outdoor gear shop for advice. Here's my current impression... SPOT is technically not a beacon, since the emergency function merely transmits your coordinates. SPOT can also transmit text messages. SPOT is cheaper up front, but more expensive to operate because of the annual fee. SPOT coverage may be iffy in parts of Alaska, but there's also an Iridium-based device of this type. PLB is strictly a 1-800-GET-ME-OUT device. Emergency function transmits your coordinates, and also broadcasts a local homing signal (beacon). PLB has a more powerful signal, and broadcasts at a lower frequency to better penetrate clouds and foliage. PLB can't transmit text messages, but I would likely combine it with a CDMA cell phone that has fairly good coverage in my local recreation area. For my activity, I see the PLB as backstop to a cell phone. Around here, when you push that PLB button the state troopers launch a helo. Further info here... Electronic Devices in the Outdoors: An Overview rei.com A PLB is an advanced search-and-rescue instrument typically carried by hard-core mountaineers and experienced backcountry skiers/snowboarders whose adventures involve high levels of challenge and risk. Rarely is a PLB carried during a typical summer backpacking trip, although if the trip involves off-trail travel to difficult, rarely visited alpine zones, a personal locator beacon would be worth considering.