ACR ResQLink PLB-400 – NZ-Coded 406 MHz GPS Buoyant Personal Locator Beacon
A vital part of any New Zealand safety kit, the ACR ResQLink PLB-400 is a compact, NZ-coded 406 MHz personal locator beacon designed to get you found fast when things really go wrong. Made in the USA, buoyant and GPS-enabled, it gives trampers, hunters, boaties and off-roaders a direct link to the international Cospas-Sarsat rescue satellite network – with no subscription fees.
Small enough to live on your lifejacket or pack strap, but tough enough for real New Zealand conditions, the ResQLink 400 is a simple “flip the antenna, press the button” beacon that does its job when you need it most.
 
Why choose the ResQLink 400?
NZ-coded for RCCNZ
Supplied NZ-coded so alerts are routed to the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ) when activated. Registration is free and legally required at beacons.org.nz.
Fast, accurate GPS position
Built-in multi-constellation GNSS (GPS + Galileo) so your position can be pinpointed quickly and accurately and passed to rescuers.
Global Cospas-Sarsat coverage
Transmits a digital distress signal on 406 MHz plus a 121.5 MHz homing signal so aircraft, helicopters and ground teams can home in on your location. Compatible with the modern MEOSAR satellite system for faster detection.
Buoyant and rugged
Purpose-built to survive rough handling, rain, spray, snow and full immersion. If it ends up in the water, it floats.
High-intensity strobe + IR strobe
Bright white LED strobe plus infra-red strobe to help rescuers using night-vision equipment locate you in darkness or poor visibility.
No subscription fees
Once purchased and registered, there are no ongoing subscription costs – just a battery replacement at 5 years or after an emergency activation.
5-year battery, 24+ hours operational life
Long-life lithium battery designed to provide 24+ hours of continuous operation once activated, backed by a 5-year replacement interval.
Includes pouch and clip system
Supplied with a pouch and multi-function mounting clips so you can carry it on a lifejacket, harness, belt or pack where it’s ready to use.
 
Ideal for
Tramping and hiking in the New Zealand backcountry
Alpine missions, skiing and snowmobiling
Hunting and 4x4 / off-road adventures
Boating, kayaking, paddle-boarding and surf skis
Solo missions where mobile coverage is unreliable or non-existent
Emergency “ditch bags” and grab-and-go survival kits
 
ACR ResQLink PLB-400 – Key Features
NZ-coded 406 MHz Personal Locator Beacon (PLB-400)
Built-in GPS + Galileo GNSS receiver
Transmits on 406 MHz (satellite distress) and 121.5 MHz (homing)
Buoyant – floats if dropped in the water
High-intensity LED strobe and infra-red strobe
Small, lightweight and easy to carry (approx. 144–148 g)
No subscription required
5-year battery life (replace after 5 years or any emergency activation)
24+ hours operational life once activated
Multi-function clip / mounting system included
5-year manufacturer warranty
 
Technical Specifications
Model: ACR ResQLink PLB-400
Coding: NZ-coded 406 MHz PLB
Applications: Hiking, camping, rock climbing, skiing, snowmobiling, fishing, boating, kayaking, paddle-boarding, 4x4 and general outdoor use
Dimensions: 11.48 cm (L) x 5.16 cm (W) x 3.78 cm (D)
Weight: approx. 144–148 g
Satellite system: Cospas-Sarsat, MEOSAR compatible
Frequencies: 406 MHz (distress) & 121.5 MHz (homing)
GNSS: GPS + Galileo
Battery type: Lithium (LiMnO₂), non-user-serviceable
Battery life: 5 years or after emergency use
Operational life when activated: 24+ hours (typical)
Waterproof rating: 5 m @ 1 hour, 10 m @ 10 minutes
Operating temperature: –20°C to +55°C
Storage temperature: –30°C to +70°C
Approvals: Cospas-Sarsat, FCC and relevant NZ approvals
 
Registration in New Zealand
This PLB is supplied NZ-coded and must be registered with the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ). Registration is free and a legal requirement in New Zealand – visit beacons.org.nz to complete or update your registration before you head out.