I carry a PLB. If I need it, I want to have the very highest probability that it will function as exected. I may not be able to change to new batteries or perhaps I have forgotten or lost them. It is a life safety thing for me. Not a tracking tool.

A long time ago, I was sailing my boat up a river on a dark and foggy night, using a computer map with a gps (no display) unit. At a critical point, the computer somehow got into word processing mode and started loading a gigantic file. My navigation tool became useless.

Since then, I make sure that critical items have only the functions needed to do the critical tasks.

I have a dedicated GPS for navigation, no computer assisted software, a radio for the application needed and safety equipment dedicated to safety functions only. It costs a bit more, but the probability that it will function as needed when needed is worth the small additional cost.

The PLB rides on my belt. I use my droid or ham radios for tracking and general messing about.

Think about it........


Nomad