Bushwalk Australia

My dad just bought me a PLB because he stresses when I go bushwalking alone. I've just registered it like the box said to do. I have no idea really about anything to do with them. Just wondering, so the battery lasts for 7 years apparently, once it's been activated (fingers crossed it never needs to be), will it work again after? Or are they single use things? I know it's probably a silly question
Thank you! I'm completely clueless. I think I need to read up more on how to set it off/test it etc!!

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Not sure if the above is still valid- but the above said GME replaced the unit for a genuine rescue. Mine runs out of date soon- probably cheaper to buy a new unit than a battery these days

Usually once you set them off, you have to get the battery changed. Hopefully you will just send it in for a service after 7 years. Probably would be best to know how to use it and at least you know that your dad loves you

Thank you both! Yes he loves me! He bought me an annual parks pass, just because he thought I should have one. And new gaiters when he heard I'd misplaced mine on a recent trip. He keeps trying to get me to join walking groups, and frets when I go alone, especially the other week I sent him a text, a photo of me up the top of Valentine's Peak! He wasn't impressed. I tried explaining to him that I'm just as likely to get bitten by a snake, or break a bone, or get attacked in my own backyard! But he still bought me one. Now that mum's gone I think he stresses a bit more. But anyway, yes, now I need to learn how to use it! It's this one:

I have the same. If you use it you'll need to get a replacement battery. It's cheaper than a replacement you.

If you need to use it, replacing the battery will be the least of your worries. Just be happy to be alive.

the manufacturer should have information about where to send the unit to replace the battery, either in documentation with the packaging or online...
although I know PLB's made by GME cant get the battery changed... so double check the information about yours to make sure the battery can be replaced. in GME's case the manufacturer give you a discount on a replacement PLB.

Technology moves on. I suspect that in 7 years time when it's time to replace my rescueME's battery, I'll likely just go and buy a new unit. I suspect in 7 year time, common PLBs will have messaging capabilities of some form, all the time using the superior constellation of satellites and direct access to the various national SAR services.

GPSGuided wrote:Technology moves on. I suspect that in 7 years time when it's time to replace my rescueME's battery, I'll likely just go and buy a new unit. I suspect in 7 year time, common PLBs will have messaging capabilities of some form, all the time using the superior constellation of satellites and direct access to the various national SAR services.

That's the plan with GLONASS. I just hope the units don't get huge again...

I wouldn't worry. They have 7 years to work and wait on tech advancements. That's a huge amount of time in technology. Can imagine there'll be various fusion products by that stage.

GPSGuided wrote:I wouldn't worry. They have 7 years to work and wait on tech advancements. That's a huge amount of time in technology. Can imagine there'll be various fusion products by that stage.

in seven years they'll be implanting PLB's, you'll have your own internal extendable aerial!!!

I thought Steve Austin already had that back in the 70s.

Hi Ambience, great to see your still going strong, you'll be counting points soon enough
It's understandable that your dad will be pretty sensitive, perhaps over-protective. I'm sure he is also very proud of your achievements.

The NW club has some very experienced members, good idea even if it is just occasionally. Often small/private trips, walking partners spring from club outings. (A word of warning, I'm told Ambience is not easily dropped on hills when she gets motoring )

We have one of those plb's, haven't used it (never used a plb) but they look fairly straight forward. Extend the antennae (upper left corner), flip the lid and press and hold the big red button until the indicator flashes. A big yellow bird will descend on your location soon enough and carry you to safety.

Some have mentioned a rubber band or something to keep that flap closed. Probably a good idea. Ours is in a small pouch so it can't flip open inadvertently.

Oh, PS.. yes, the gaiters are in a bag ready to send (sorry, still quite busy). I'll get to it this coming week.

Feel free to ask questions. The only true dumb questions are the ones that get yourself or someone else hurt by not being asked. Good luck on your adventures!

And if your dad does set it off in an emergency then the item will have paid for its self.. just make sure he doesn't leave it on the bench like I did once and only realized once out bush. I felt naked without it.

wayno wrote: . . . in seven years they'll be implanting PLB's, you'll have your own internal extendable aerial!!!

DONE!

tas-man wrote:DONE!

NSA suspect tracking... On!

tas-man wrote:

wayno wrote: . . . in seven years they'll be implanting PLB's, you'll have your own internal extendable aerial!!!

DONE!

Meleleuca Martian.jpg

Funny I always envisioned aliens with no facial hair

walkon wrote:Funny I always envisioned aliens with no facial hair

Of course not. Rainbow coloured scales are all the go in outer space these days.

Where do they put the battery?

On the inside. Gets quite technical.

Battery? Did you guys mean the micro fusion pack?

walkerchris77 wrote:Where do they put the battery?

That was my second thought