SPOT Satellite Messenger vs TracMe use while solo geocaching

[+BiT]

I'm considering venturing out and doing a lot more solo hiking to go after those long hike caches this year and would like to have an added measure of security. I have seen two items that look interesting, the SPOT Satellite Messenger and the TracMe. There are a lot of differences, price, GPS based, subscriptions, etc.... Has anyone had any experience with either units?

[+PDOP's]

First time I've seen the TracMe beacon. Thanks for the link. After looking at their website a couple of things standout. It's FRS based so would have limited range and it's a one time use

 

What is the transmission range of the unit?

 

This depends on a number of things including the terrain, but mainly it depends on the antenna used on the rescue team’s receiver. The standard antenna on an UHF CB, FRS or PMR radio will give approximately 1000 yds (1km) range on the ground in light forest, and around 4-8 ml (6-12km) from the air. Using a high gain directional antenna, as is used with direction finding equipment the range is generally extended by a factor of 2 or 3.

 

Single use - once the unit has been activated, it can be deactivated but not reused

 

I've looked at SPOT before and it's more versatile allowing you to send preprogrammed text messages. However their parent company GlobalStar is having problems so I'd be concerned about their longevity.

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Globalstar

Edited March 7, 2008 by PDOP's

[+CYBret]

Eeeh, why bother when you can get one of these instead.

 

Sure it costs more than my first house but hey, you can't tell time with your house!