EPIRB - PLB Bulk Buy discussion

[tasadam]

As there's less than two months until the current 121.5Mhx EPIRBs no longer work, it's time to get a discussion going regarding a bulk buy.

This page shows the available models.
Scroll down to PLB's.

There are generally two types - one with GPS inbuilt, which is generally accurate to less than 50 metres, and one without the GPS, which is only accurate to less than 5KM - that's a radius.
If I am desparate enough to want to set off a PLB, I want them to find me quick.
Therefore, for this bulk buy discussion that I am happy to attempt to organize, I will only consider a G model - one that does less than 50 metres. From what I understand, they transmit the GPS co-ordinates of the unit to the search and rescue base that looks after that stuff.

So. Go have a look at the available units, and start the discussion on your preferred (or least preferred) model - let's narrow it down then I can do some shopping and try and come up with a good proce for a bulk buy.

As a ball park figure, I have seen the GME unit for sale for $565.

Let me know here whether you are interested, and also which model/s you prefer.
Looking forward to hearing your opinions.
_________________________________________________________
An update to make the outcome easy to find -
as taken from this post.
What it says is -

I have got tired of constantly chasing up with the supplier that I had in Launceston, so have given up.
Originally the price they gave me was $594, but for more than a month I have been trying to get them to confirm a price, and still I have no answer.
They have advised me that their failure was due to the unavailability or inability of their GME rep to get back to them.
They are aware of this thread so they can contact me should they choose. But for now I feel it a waste of time chasing them when they are available online -

The GME MT410G can be purchased by anyone interested from Wetweathergear for $569 plus freight.

My suggestion for all those interested would be to do their own thing, purchasing online from that link. Caveat Emptor (That is, I hold no responsibility).

I apologise for the extended delay and ultimate failure in the sourcing of information, I trust you find the $569 price favourable, I hope the delay in getting these units is not excessive (expected to be around 8 weeks but feel free to confirm with them), and I wish you all well should you proceed through that supplier.

Disclaimer - this information is supplied in good faith. Please do your own checking before purchasing if you have any concerns.
Any further updates will be added to this thread, I do not plan to send PM's to all unless I get some groundbraking news on an earth shattering price.

EDIT on 13th April 2009 they were $569. Today, 29th April 2009 they are $585.

[Damien]

I've been interested in getting the MT410G for a while, keep me in mind if this ends up going ahead.

[geoskid]

Hi Adam, Thanks for organizing this,
I'd be interested in a MT410G, It wont be long before I want to do some solo's where I would want to take one.
Geoskid

[tastrax]

I would also give these folks an option to supply

http://www.kti.com.au/plb.htm

They supplied all the (older 243Mhz) ones for PWS in Tassie but they are yet to get their full approval for 406Mhz.

[tasadam]

<snip>but they are yet to get their full approval for 406Mhz.

They would want to get a hurry on with their approval - the 121.5 no longer works after 1st February.

[Robbo]

As there's less than two months until the current 121.5Mhx EPIRBs no longer work,

It is not entirely true that they will no longer work... I just read this in The Age online:
"She said although satellites would no longer be able to detect the emergency signals from the old models, low-flying aircraft would still receive them."
(http://news.theage.com.au/national/boat ... -6tw0.html)

While the satellite will be switched off, they will still be able to be picked up by aircraft. I guess that is only any good if aircraft fly near where you are stuck!

Tony Robinson

[walkinTas]

I am interested in a PLB and like Adam I would prefer the GPS model. I was hoping by now that some enterprising manufacturer would have combined GPS navigation with PLB emergency signaling.

I have been waiting for a final report from the Cannibal Run to get their verdict on the SPOT system which is the only other alternative I would consider (see this thread). I walk solo and like the idea of being able to send a daily report to say that all is well. It is not a necessity, but a luxury I would consider if I knew the system worked well in Tassie.

I like the GME MT410G, with a seven year battery life and seven year warranty. Also GME is an Aussie company. I also like the McMurdo because it has a 48 hour life after activation (not that I'd want to wait that long), and a user replaceable battery pack (no need to send the unit back to the factory). McMurdo is a pommie company.

Short answer: Yep! Interested in a GME MT410G.

[tasadam]

I thought I would make mention that I am offering this firstly as an idea only - I need to see what I can organize once we have an idea the quantity and model (which is looking a lot like the GME one so far).
Secondly, to avoid what I will refer to the Ty-evk syndrome (spelling error so search engines misss it), I am offering this, if it does get off the ground, to members that had joined by the date of the first post in this topic which is 6th December.
The Ty-evk syndrome is "that item" getting found on search engines, and people joining the forum to take advantage of it.
I don't have a problem with "that item" at $5 a metre, but a PLB is a bit different.

Just thought I would make that clear.

Now. Does anyone know anyone that works for a business that sells them?
PM or email me if you can help - I would prefer to keep the discussion on the actual obtaining a price out of the forum at this stage (and probably permanently).

[corvus]

I will check out my IT dept to see if they are interested but I suspect we would have a min purchase probably more than we could drum up and we would need to pay by credit card up front which I would be happy to do as long as the funds were in my bank b4 committing.
We would also need to sort out dispatch and freight cost.

I will also speak to a friend of mine in the industry to see if they are interested in doing the same sort of deal .
corvus

[Joe]

We sell them at work. However, this time of year in retail is *&%$#! crazy and I can only guarantee that we will get a chance to work out a bulk price in the new year. I have a pretty good relationship with the people at Next Destination, I manage the electronics area at work so I deal with them a lot. I would hope to be able to talk them into a good price. However it would need to be a few units. anything under 10 and the exercise would be worthless.

We stock the GPS enabled GME as a stock item. However GME are unlikely to actually have any movement on price. Next Dest may be more accomodating so perhaps people should consider the KANNAD PLB 406 XS-3 GPS instead. Its a nice looking unit.

[scockburn]

Hi , I'd be interested . I am getting a little sick of hiring . I am not set on any type so I would be flexible and I'd be reasonably confident that the type chosen would be suitable . I realise this post is old t would it be too late to get involved ? I don't think I fit into the Tyvek syndrome (I hope )as I have been a avid reader here , though I am from the North , wishing I was South. SC

[tasadam]

I realise this post is old t would it be too late to get involved ? I don't think I fit into the Tyevk syndrome (I hope )as I have been a avid reader here , though I am from the North , wishing I was South. SC

This topic began on December 6th.
You've been a member a bit longer than that
No sweat.

To make it clear, I have edited my post above to include the date.

I came across many links, and have seen the $550 to $600 price range advertised for the MT410G unit.
The RRP is being reported at a number of places for $649.

I thought I should point this out in case that price is too much for anyone.
I have also seen another forum discussing the potential discount for a bulk but purchase, and it wasn't much - so we'll have to see.

I'll do a brief comparison of specification of models mentioned when time permits - warranty, activation time, range accuracy, weight, battery lasting time.

[slick41st]

HI Adam,

Count me in on a GME unit with GPS. If the majority go for another brand then I am not too fussed, just must have GPS and be light and full EPIRB capabilites.

Cheers, Damien

[Taurë-rana]

Potentially yes, may depend on final price.
DA

[Penguin]

Count me in too.

I'm interested in reading your analysis of features.

D

[tasadam]

OK Let's see what I can dig up re the differences in the models.
The 3 different models mentioned so far, all WITH the GPS function, are -

GME MT410G
Company link
A specification sheet (PDF file)

KTI Mini-Sat 406Mhz PLB (with internal GPS)
Company link

Kannad 406 XS-3 GPS
Company link
A specification sheet (PDF file)


Here's a graph I put together comparing the key features most likely to interest us.
More information is available from their web sites.

Note that due to the downsizing of the image, the text is likely illegible - so click on the image to read it.

Attachments

Comparison as of 9th December 2008 based on available information

[walkinTas]

The fourth Musketeer.

McMurdo Max-G Fastfind.
Company Site Tech Specs (.doc) Leaflet (pdf)

IMC1500-02_L.jpg (9.14 KiB) Viewed 38742 times

Weight: 255 grams
Dimensions: 78.4 x 54 x 145mm
Battery time to replacement: 5 yrs.
Warranty: 5 yrs
Range Accuracy: 30 metres world wide (typical ±62 metres)
Activation pickup time: <3 minutes
GPS Channels: 12
Run time: 48 hours
RRP AUS$: 774.70 (Whitworths Marine)
Other Notes: Floats, Waterproof to 10 metres, User replaceable battery packs, dual frequency (406 Mhz & 121.5 Mhz), Visual indication of GPS position acquisition, Simple three-stage activation,
Automatic discreet antenna deployment, Operating temperature -20°C to 55°C, Approvals: COSPAS-SARSAT & R&TTE. Replacement battery cost about 75% unit cost (approx US$175.00)

[corvus]

I have requested prices for a minimum purchase of ten units on GME and KTI versions ,if I get a good price and we agree,it will be on the basis of money up front and freight/handling costs sorted prior to the order being placed with payment by way of bank transfer being my only acceptable method as I have asked for the keenest price possible therefore it is only fair that the vendor is not disadvantaged by high credit card costs.
A copy of the invoice will be included with all purchases for warranty purposes as will the cost of freight/handling costs.
Gees I sound like an eBay dealer (thinks!! what a good idea !!NOT) just be happy if possible to save us some cash.

[walkinTas]

I am not interested in the KTI unless it comes with a certificate to say it is COSPAS-SARSAT approved. The three months to approval story is the same story I got when we first looked at EPIRBs/PLBs in January.

[tasadam]

I am not interested in the KTI unless it comes with a certificate to say it is COSPAS-SARSAT approved. The three months to approval story is the same story I got when we first looked at EPIRBs/PLBs in January.

It is not for sale until it is approved.

[PeterJ]

I am in the process of organising the purchase of the MT410G PLB for a group of walkers (although I have agreement to buy i don't yet have their cash contribution). Anyway the short answer is I could very well be interested.

[corvus]

I cannot get GME so will need to wait on my other option the KTI ,should know early next week.

[Joe]

I would be very suprised if you do get the KTI, its not available on the market yet. It is by far the best model of the lot and being Australian owned company is a bonus too...but they need to get thier sh!t together.

[geoskid]

Hi All,
There must be a reason why the KTI unit has'nt got approval yet, anyone know why? I'd be sceptical of it unless there is a very good reason for it not being approved yet.
Geoskid

[ymc]

Hi Adam,

Thanks for looking into this.

I would certainly be interested if you end up going ahead with the bulk order for GME MT410G.

Keep me posted.

Thanks.

[corvus]

My contact is looking at the the GME owing to the delay with the KTI I should know something after the the new year holiday.

[sirius Tas]

Hi All,
Although I wont be buying a PLB...as have a Sat phone....you may like to check out Tamar Marine in Launceston...their MT410G currently retails for $595 cash and carry price...but when with FT they were able to negotiate a good deal when buying GPSr units in bulk...just a thought any ways.
Cheers..sirius

[sirius Tas]

Hi All,
I should of checked first...as just received this reply from Tamar Marine..
Quote..
'Sorry nil stock at present
Also due to price increase from GME new stock, if and when we get some will be $639.00'

Sorry re false info..Cheers...sirius

[Joe]

there is a big shortage of units at moment. with the amount ot people owning the old system compared to the amount of units available there will be some fun times finding units for 6 monts or so I imagine.

[sirius Tas]

Hi All,
Reckon you're right taswaterfalls.com...other factor is the $ devaluation which is going to push up prices around 20%. I'm checking with another supplier which initially is considerably cheaper but are they able to supply the quantity that may be needed???
As soon as I can confirm details I'll post them. Cheers...sT