ACR Electronics’ next-generation ResQLink™ View Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) has won the 2020 Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show Innovation Award in the Consumer Safety Equipment category.

The ACR Electronics PLB with a digital display providing live status and GPS coordinates was announced by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and Boating Writers International (BWI) as the winner of its category during the Miami Innovation Breakfast today at The Rusty Pelican on Virginia Key.

The ResQLink View is the first and only buoyant PLB designed using real-life survivor feedback. Incorporating ACR’s Optical Display Technology for even more reassurance and peace of mind, the ResQLink View’s screen displays all the beacon’s operational activities, including GPS coordinates, operating instructions, usage tips, transmission bursts, as well as battery power. It provides a trusted and affordable link to rescue in a life-threatening situation, with user-friendly design innovations and enhanced functionality.

Co-chair of the Innovation Awards judges’ committee, Ben Stein, said: “When your life is on the line, knowing that your distress signal has been sent and the PLB is working correctly can make all the difference.”

Mikele D’Arcangelo, Vice President of Global Marketing and Product Management for ACR Electronics, said: “We are delighted that the judging panel has recognized the innovations and technology incorporated in our new ResQLink View PLB. Most importantly, we are proud that this advanced solution is available to more of our customers, so that it can save more lives and aid the rescue services in locating and helping casualties.”

Compact, lightweight and easy to carry, the new ResQLink beacons feature a protected activation button located away from the test button, multiple wearable mounting options including a belt clip and oral inflation clip for easy access in an emergency, and an easier-to-release antenna enclosure. The PLBs also include a new infra-red strobe light in addition to the ultra-bright strobe light to assist rescue crews using night vision goggles. All the new design changes were suggested by ACR Electronics SurvivorClub members.

The new ResQLink series also incorporate a multi-constellation receiver utilising both the Galileo Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) as well as the GPS Satellite network for faster location and improved accuracy.

The Miami Innovation Awards, managed by NMMA and judged by Boating Writers International, recognize exceptionally innovative new consumer marine products – all on display throughout the Miami Boat Show at Miami Marine Stadium Park and Basin. This year the panel of judges evaluated 71 product entries across 21 boating categories, with 18 winners selected.

For more information, visit ACR Electronics during the Miami International Boat Show at C Tent: C209 or go to www.acrartex.com.