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Obviously, I can't just buy it, push the button and expect a helicopter to show up.
Are there monthly or registration fees? Do I need to get a permit or register with someone? How does it all work? Does it get service everywhere (even internationally)? I'm not even sure what I don't know at this point.
Basically, if you were telling a friend how to purchase a PLB, what would you tell them?
The Wikipedia article has a lot of detail: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distress_radiobeacon.
There's no fee. In the USA, the response comes from government agencies such as the Coast Guard.
It does need to be registered, but registration is free and easy online.
If you use it when there's not an emergency, you could be fined.
