In challenging situations, communication capability, sending emergency signals, and ensuring personal safety are of great importance. Having the right equipment can make a significant difference when embarking on remote adventures or navigating through challenging environments. Two devices stand out in addressing these needs: Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) and satellite phones. These devices are of great importance as they serve as a bridge between helplessness and assistance.
What is a PLB?
Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) stands out as a vital asset in environments where traditional communication channels are unavailable. These devices play a critical role in areas such as forests, mountains, or open ocean, where emergencies can occur suddenly and unpredictably. When a PLB is activated, the emergency signal is sent via the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system; this global network is designed to respond quickly to emergency calls. When the signal is received within a short time, you can be assured that help is on the way. For more detailed information about PLBs, you can read our article examining PLBs in detail.
What is a Satellite Phone?
Satellite phones are needed in environments similar to PLBs. Satellite phones can provide coverage where mobile phone networks cannot reach. This is because satellite phones send and receive signals through satellites positioned in space rather than through ground-based base stations. Additionally, satellite phones are not limited to just sending distress calls. Depending on the device model, they offer various features such as making phone calls, sending SMS, and connecting to the internet at a limited speed.
PLB and Satellite Phone Comparison
While both devices play critical roles in ensuring safety, there are differences that should be considered.
One of the fundamental differences between the two devices lies in their communication capabilities. Satellite phones offer two-way communication and allow users to make phone calls or send and receive SMS messages. In contrast, PLBs serve a single purpose by sending emergency signals. However, they perform this single function extraordinarily well. This capability is based on the fact that PLBs operate through the COSPAS-SARSAT program. PLBs provide worldwide coverage and are always ready. Furthermore, because they have a stronger signal, they are less affected by weather conditions compared to satellite phones.
On the other hand, satellite phones communicate through commercial satellites. Effective communication requires these satellites to be active, properly aligned, and accessible. There is a possibility that there may be no satellite above you at any given moment. This can lead to potential waiting times. Such waiting times can make a significant difference in an emergency.
Some satellite phones, depending on brand and model, can offer features such as map navigation, weather reports, or internet access in addition to their basic features.
Another difference between the two devices is their batteries. While satellite phones are rechargeable like many modern devices, PLBs have a multi-year battery life. The PLB's battery remains in standby mode until it is activated. However, it should be noted that the PLB needs to be sent to the manufacturer for battery replacement. Pharus Tech PLB has a 5-year service life and allows 20 tests within its 5-year service life. Pharus Tech's planned future certified Zeus PLB is targeted to have a 10-year service life and over 40 Test limit.
At first glance, satellite phone prices may seem more attractive. However, apart from emergency calls, they require a monthly subscription from an operator to activate the communication feature. Tariff fees may vary depending on the operator. In contrast, PLBs do not require any subscription. They only need to be registered online for free.
While both satellite phones and PLBs contribute significantly to remote communication and safety, their differences and capabilities should not be overlooked. Although satellite phones are versatile devices, PLBs stand out as a concrete representation of safety in emergencies.
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