Long time reader, first time poster, PAX.
As someone with a relative and friends on this flight I thank you all for the interesting discussion and quick links to new information. It has been enlightening to read informed, professional opinion and theory on what might have happened, rather than the pap dished up by CNN and 'experts' such as Richard Quest.
Regarding ELTs/location methods that actually work, I'll echo previously aired views when I say that the faster a lost aircraft can be found the better it is for the loved ones of those on board.
If the case of survivors, rapidly pinpointing the crash site increases their chance of surviving the entire ordeal, especially at sea. If there are no survivors, as may be the case here, quickly locating the crash site speeds up the timeline and allows grieving to start.
I thank $DEITY this was not another MH370.
--Brad