Communications

Staying in touch from remote places

Emergency locator transmitters (ELT) and satellite telephones are the communication devices of choice for wilderness paddlers, especially when venturing into areas as remote as the Nunavik Region of northern Quebec and the province of Labrador. DO NOT underestimate the power of the wilderness to take your life. Be prepared and be safe, always.


In 1999 and in 2003, our team put our trust in ELTs manufactured by the Emergency Beacon Corporation in New Rochelle, NY. The EBC 302SVR is rescue satellite system-compatible and is also configured for voice transmission and reception. The device transmits on 121.5 MHz and 243.0 MHz simultaneously and can continuously transmit for up to eight full days. It receives voice transmissions only on 121.5 MHz. Its antenna beams out a calling pattern up to 300 miles in a full circle on the Civilian and Military international emergency frequencies mentioned above. Battery change is easily accomplished in the field without breaking the circuitry's water-seal encapsulation. You always know the beacon is ready, a built-in test indicator relates the coded signal quality and input strength to the antenna. (NOTE: Two EBC 302SVRs appear in the image to the right).

Specifically designed as a portable personal survival beacon, the EBC 302SVR allows you to talk directly with the search aircraft to notify them of your immediate needs. It has a voice transmission and reception range of up to 50 miles. It survives 1000 G's of shock in all directions, is completely undamaged by salt water immersion and has a tough nylon lanyard for ease in carrying. It has a built-in test light for checking power output, modulation and battery. The device accepts standard plug-in microphones and headsets. It weighs only 1.9 lbs and its dimensions are 2.5" x 2" x 6.5".


If you're looking for a super-lightweight beacon without voice transmission capabilities, try the EBC 102. This pocket-sized portable rescue beacon, manufactured by the Emergency Beacon Corporation, transmits up to 150 miles. It measures only 2.5" x 1.25" x 3.75" (about the size of a pack of cigarettes) and weighs only 12 ounces! Its alkaline battery pack enables the ELT to transmit continuously for 72 hours at 21 degrees Celsius.

The EBC 102 is designed to the same rugged environmental standards as the rest of the EBC ELT line. This small unit will withstand up to 1000 G's of shock. It has a telescoping antenna for easy storage and transportation. The EBC 102 has an easily removed aluminum safety cap to eliminate accidental activations. This unit transmits simultaneously on both internationally recognized , satellite monitored distress frequencies. A built-in test lamp allows you to check for proper operation.

The EBC 102 meets all specifications established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) for personal rescue beacons. The EBC 102 - peace of mind in your hand.

For more information on the entire line of EBC ELTs and current pricing contact:
Emergency Beacon Corporation
15 River Street
New Rochelle, New York USA 10801
Telephone: (914) 235-9400
Fax: (914) 576-7075
Toll-free: (800) 382-0079

* WARNING: Before relying on any type of communication device in a wilderness setting be sure that every member of your team understands its uses and capabilities.

To learn more about the COSPAS-SARSAT International Satellite System for Search and Rescue click here.

Additional SARSAT information can be found on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) website at http://www.sarsat.noaa.gov