Ocean SignalrescueME MOB1 - Compact AIS Man Overboard Device with Automatic Activation, 7-Year Battery Life, 24 Hours of Operation, and Integrated DSC Transmitter

I haven't had to use it in anger, i.e., I haven't fallen off the boat and had to be rescued. But there was no issues programming it online, installing, and testing it.

If you are going offshore, you need this on your auto-inflate life vest. It issues a MOB signal over AIS which means any vessel within twenty miles will know you went overboard and will have your GPS coordinates.With that said, the device seems well-built and definitely works. However, following the instructions, we still managed to set these off each time we installed one. We installed them while at a calm anchorage. I could hear the MOB alarms go off on nearby boats. Until they improve the installation instructions, it is highly recommended that you install these while on shore.

Good product! Recommend!

This thing is expensive, but the design is genius.

Used it in a swamped 19 foot Bartender just off the coast near Bar Harbor . Declared Mayday and this unit saved our lives we were in the water in July for 45 minutes before rescue. All of our safety equipment kepot us swamped but afloat

Bought 6 of these over time - as with other reviewer, the installation was straightforward. I was able to program my vessel's MMSI number into each of the units (so it would directly transmit the MOB signal to my radio and chart plotter) using the PC-emulator on my MAC and the optical interface method seemed to work fine. Once installed added little bulk to the one side of the vest and still allowed it all to be zipped back up.I have yet to test it by actually deploying the life vest (a bit pricey as I have to then recharge the whole thing again), but I will presume it will work! Hence no 5 stars!

I would echo what has been previously mentioned about checking for compatibility with your equipment, and to use the test functions before putting your life in the hands of this device. The DSC function did not work with my Standard Horizon GX-1700 (even though that is listed as compatible on their web site). The unit was purchased in 2015. I am still waiting to hear from Standard Horizon on whether a firmware update will fix it (for which I have to pay and send it back to the factory). I then purchased a new Standard Horizon HX870 handheld unit, and thankfully it does work with that, but the need to keep it on and charged is less convenient than relying on my built-in radio. On the AIS side of things, that did work OK. But I have a brand new chart plotter - if you have something older, beware. One more thing, check your PFD model to make sure it is compatible with the triggering mechanism. On mine, it is not possible to wrap the arming tape fully around the inflation bladder, which is the best way to install the MOB. Instead I have to use a hack (which RescueMe does supply) involving using an adhesive strip to connect the tape to the back of the bladder. Not sure how well that will work if actually deployed. Make sure that all your PFD users know about the MOB and how to manually activate it (and of course, how to track the MOB using your AIS and DSC radio).

Seems well made. Was easy to set up and install into the life preserver. Was not unduly bulky and did not interfere with movement. Unable to code the MMSI number into it using my laptop, but easily did so using my iPad. Test procedures were successful. Unable to rate this five stars without having had to use it in an emergency, something I am reluctant to do.