Emergency position indicating radiobeacons (EPIRBs), devices which cost from $200 to about $1500,
are designed to save your life if you get into trouble by alerting rescue authorities and indicating
your location. EPIRB types are described below:
| Type |
Frequencies (MHz) |
Description
|
| Class A
|
121.5000 / 243.0000
|
- Float-free, automatically-activating, detectable by aircraft and satellite.
- Coverage is limited. An alert from this device to a rescue coordination center may be delayed
- 4 - 6 or more hours. No longer recommended.
|
| Class B
|
121.5000 / 243.0000
|
- Manually activated version of Class A. No longer recommended.
|
| Class C
|
VHF ch 15/16
|
- Manually activated, operates on maritime channels only. Not detectable by satellite.
- These devices have been phased out by the FCC and are no longer recognized.
|
| Class S
|
121.5000 / 243.0000
|
- Similar to Class B, except it floats, or is an integral part of a survival craft. No longer recommended.
|
| Category I
|
406.0000 / 121.5000
|
- Float-free, automatically activated EPIRB.
- Detectable by satellite anywhere in the world. Recognized by GMDSS.
|
| Category II
|
406.0000 / 121.5000
|
- Similar to Category I, except is manually activated.
- Some models are also water activated.
|
| Inmarsat E
|
1646.0000
|
- Float-free, automatically activated EPIRB.
- Detectable by Inmarsat geostationary satellite. Recognized by GMDSS.
- Currently not sold in the U.S.; however, the Federal Communications Commission is considering recognizing these devices. This service will end
|