Yes, I noticed this item came out two years after I bought my 11 oz. ACR brick for close to $600.

Do some google searches. I've read some reviews that say the transmitter isn't as powerful; others that say the McMurdo is fine. Since it requires special permission from the Coast Guard to actually test a PLB, we must rely on others (who probably haven't done an empirical test either). I have no idea, but I plan to wait until the battery warranty on my current brick--uh, PLB--is up (2 1/2 more years). By then, these gadgets may be down to one ounce and $100, or, better, maybe have a way to communicate so we can tell SAR what the problem is. Let's hope so, anyway! IMHO, the lighter unit is nice but not after I already spent so much money to keep my family off my back.