Originally Posted By: Doug_Ritter
TracMe says, “most simply, we call it that because it is – using ordinary English – an accurate and precise description…Our lawyers and trademark offices around the world have called the phrase personal locator beacon a generic description of the device.”

Yeah, the moniker "Personal Distress Beacon" would also be an accurate general description (as would "Personal Piece of Junk", IMHO). It is my belief that they are using the PLB name intentionally, and trying to take advantage of the PLB's high price to appear like a low-cost alternative.
_________________________
“Hiking is just walking where it’s okay to pee. Sometimes old people hike by mistake.” — Demitri Martin