If you are still using your old ELT, and if you are assuming that you will be found if you land in the boondocks and it starts transmitting, you might want to think again.  As of the first of the year, the old 121.5 will only be monitored by those pilots who choose to do so.

We are still required to use an ELT, either a new one on the new frequency or the old one with 121.5, but if you choose to stay with your present ELT, you might want to check out these items

These two items were both reveiwed in the February AOPA Pilot, and the comments are theirs:

SPOT2 Inexpensive tracking and access to GPSderived position for search and rescue is a reality thanks to the wildly popular SPOT. The new SPOT 2 keeps the features of the old version while adding upgrades pilots will love. The check in and track button has been separated, allowing pilots to easily send a text or e-mail message to loved ones either once or every 10 minutes. But SPOT 2 really exists for the emergency feature, which when activated will send people looking for you immediately  A new internal GPS makes finding you that much easier. easier.

Price : $149.95; $99.99 a year;
Contact: www. findmespot.com
Reviewer comments: Bob Knill, AOPA application support engineer Private, instrument, 300 hours

"I really liked it, and even though I was never in a life- threatening situation, it felt good knowing I had another set of eyes on me any time I wanted them."

Pros:  Easy to use
Lightweight
Nice attention to detail with plastic covers over important buttons

Cons: Text alerts didn't work at first. Not intuitive for AT&T users to set up
 Have to press buttons until they blink, but finger covers the blinking buttons

ACR Electronics SARLink
If you want serious search and rescue protection, you may want to turn to a personal locator beacon (PLB). They are robust, don't require a yearly activation  fee, and make finding someone as easy as walking to a coordinate. AeR's SARLink is one of the best on the market.

Price:  Suggested price $499, can be found much cheaper online

Contac t: www.acrelectronics.corn

Reviewer comments:

Patrick Smith, aviation technical specialist, AOPA

Pilot Information Center Commercial , CFI, 1,650 hours.

"I even explained its emergency operation to my wife, who is not at all technologicall y inclined . 'Remo ve this cover, press red button.'"

Pros: Registration is easy and took fewer than 10 minutes
Sturdy and rugged.
406 and 121.5 capability means being found by satellite and ground searchers

Cons: Manual activation requires crash to be survivable
 Limited functionality compared to competitors

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Comments, questions, or just want to chat about anything aviation?  Drop me a note or call: 816-763-5205