NaviGadget

McMurdo GPS EPIRB helps rescue workers find you

Apr 4, 2007 gps navigation, misc news

The G5 Smartfind Plus EPIRB device is a life saving device. Namely it is an EPIRB (emergency position indicating radio beacon) – with added GPS feature.

The addition of a GPS receiver to the EPIRB ensures that the exact position of a casualty is relayed to the rescue services. This can in turn improve the speed of recovery by updating the position of the beacon at regular intervals.

The SMARTFIND Plus G5 GPS EPIRB is designed for commercial mariners and weekend boaters in mind and it uses the standard 406MHz EPIRB and/or GPS chip on board for enhanced position location. The device will try to save your life for 48 hours once its activated -even at -20°C- and the battery has a shelf life of 5 years.

The Smartfind EPIRB works by transmitting radio signals which are detected by the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite network. A distress signal is automatically relayed through an automatic ground station to a control centre where it is decoded and the distress and registration details are passed on to the relevant search and rescue authority.

The Smartfind Plus has a bright LED flashing locator light and comprehensive diagnostic and self test facilities. In addition the 121.5MHz homing transmitter also allows the rescue services to home in on you once they’re in the vicinity.

We don’t have an exact price but it costs around $900-$1000.

If you are interested purchasing one of these you should check out McMurdo’s website for their retailers around the world.