The Bottom Line
Suggested Retail Price: $499.99
A mid-priced PLB, the ACR Aquafix PLB has an internal GPS that transmits a personally registered, digitally coded distress signal on 406 MHz via the COSPAs-SARSAT satellite system.
Pros
- Small and light enough to be worn
- Comes with a holster to attach it to PFDs
- Waterproof and floats if dropped in the water
- Integrated GPS receiver
Cons
- Only transmits 24 hours
- Category II - manual activation required
Description
- Full functional self test of internal circuitry, battery power, 406 MHz transmission, and GPS acquisition.
- Flat, stainless steel antenna wraps compactly around the unit for easy stowage; is easily positioned when needed.
- Easily carried in a pack or on a life jacket; small enough to wear on deck.
Guide Review - Marine Electronics Review: ACR AquaFix 1/0 406 MHZ PLB
The AquaFix 406 I/O has an internal GPS that uses FastACQ™ technology to acquire your position to within 100 meters, which it sends to rescue agencies along with the distress signal. It may also be connected to an external GPS so that when activated, your LAT/LONG will accompany the 406 MHz signal on the first burst to shorten the time it takes to reach local rescue centers.