ACR Electronics ACR-PLB100 Personal Locator Beacon User Manual y1030155 t1

ACR Electronics, Inc. Personal Locator Beacon y1030155 t1

Instruction Manual

DRAWN. Bill Cox DATE. 4/9/2003 ACR ELECTRONICS INC 5757 Ravenswood Road FT. Lauderdale Fl. (954) 981-3333 CHECKED. DATE. ENG Bill Cox DATE. 4/9/2003 APVD DATE. Instruction Manual PLB-100 A 18560 Cover Sheet DRAWING NO APPENDIX 2 REV A APPENDIX 2 Instruction Manual FCC ID: B66-ACR-PLB100 Type acceptance under Part 95 Subpart K
* * * WARNING * * *THIS TRANSMITTER IS AUTHORIZED FOR USEONLY DURING SITUATIONS OF GRAVEAND IMMINENT DANGERDELIBERATE MISUSE MAY RESULT IN A SEVERE PENALTYAdvice to owners of Personal Satellite EPIRBsRegistration of 406 MHz satellite P-EPIRB with the Registration Section of the national authority* is mandatorybecause of the global alerting nature of the system.The information provided in the Registration Card is used only for rescue purposes and will greatly assist in anybeacon alarm incident.Fill in the owner registration card immediately upon completion of the sales transaction. Immediately Mail theRegistration Card.If the beacon is to enter service immediately, complete the Registration Card and fax the information to the nationalauthority. The original card must still be mailed to the national authority* for hard-copy reference and filing.If the current owner is transferring the beacon to a new owner, the current owner is required to inform the nationalauthority* by letter, facsimile or telephone, of the name and address of the new owner.The subsequent owner of the beacon is required to provide the national authority* with the information as shown onthe owner Registration Card.Additional Registration Cards may be obtained by contacting ACR or the appropriate national authority.THIS OBLIGATION TRANSFERS TO ALL SUBSEQUENT OWNERS.*National AuthorityThe term “national authority” appears throughout this manual. Wherever these words appear, reference is made tothe government body responsible for registration for the country in which the unit is registered. The addresses forvarious national authorities can be found on the Registration Card.
Y1-03-0155 Rev. A1TABLE OF CONTENTSSECTION 1 - THE SYSTEM........................................................................................................ 21.1 General........................................................................................................................................... 21.2 Purpose........................................................................................................................................... 21.3 Satellite Detection.......................................................................................................................... 31.4 Authorizations ............................................................................................................................... 51.5 Characteristics............................................................................................................................... 51.6 Technical Data............................................................................................................................... 51.6.1 Applicable Documents.......................................................................................................................... 51.6.2 Specifications........................................................................................................................................ 5SECTION 2 - OPERATION........................................................................................................ 102.1 General......................................................................................................................................... 102.2 P-EPIRB™ 406 Operating Instructions .................................................................................. 102.2.1 Activation............................................................................................................................................ 102.2.2 Deactivation........................................................................................................................................ 102.2.3 Self Test.............................................................................................................................................. 11SECTION 3 - EXTERNAL GPS I/R ADAPTER....................................................................... 123.1 General......................................................................................................................................... 123.2 GPS Adapter................................................................................................................................ 123.2.1 Connecting:......................................................................................................................................... 123.2.2 Setup: .................................................................................................................................................. 133.2.3 Testing: ............................................................................................................................................... 133.2.4 Position data set to default: ................................................................................................................. 144.0 MAINTENANCE ........................................................................................................................ 145.0 REGISTRATION........................................................................................................................ 156.0 FALSE ALARMS........................................................................................................................ 15Figure 1 – GEOSAR Satellite Coverage ..........................................................................4Figure 2 – SAR Satellite Coverage ...................................................................................4Figure 3 – Block Diagram ................................................................................................ 6Figure 4 – Known Compatible GPS Receiver's........................................................... 7-9Figure 5 – Self test............................................................................................................11Figure 6 – Operating Position.........................................................................................12Figure 7 – GPS Adapter Illustration..............................................................................13Figure 8 – External GPS I/R Cable................................................................................14Figure 9 - Basic Concept of the (COSPAS-SARSAT) System .....................................16
Y1-03-0155 Rev. A2SECTION 1 - THE SYSTEM1.1 GENERAL 1.11.1.1 This manual provides operation and maintenance instructions for the P-EPIRB™ 406,Personal Satellite EPIRB, model RLB-36 hereinafter referred to as the beacon or unit.This section describes the characteristics and details of the P-EPIRB™ 406 system.1.2 PURPOSE 1.21.2.1 The beacon provides distress alerting via radio transmission on 406 MHz to satellites ofthe COSPAS-SARSAT network. The unit can also transmit a distress alert to theGEOSAR network that includes GPS latitude and longitude coordinates that are inputtedthrough an I/R Interface that connects to the data output of a GPS Receiver.1.2.2 The message transmitted by the beacon is unique for each unit, which providesidentification of the transmitter through computer access of registration files maintainedby the National Authority. It is the user's responsibility to fill out and mail theenclosed registration form to the appropriate agency of the country under which thebeacon is registered. The beacon is programmed by ACR during manufacture and can bereprogrammed by an ACR authorized programming facility for the registered country.Remember, if your beacon is not registered, SAR Authorities do not know who youare, where you live or where to contact anyone who might know anything about yoursituation.1.2.3 Once Search and Rescue (SAR) forces are alerted by the units signal (406 MHz), relayedthrough the COSPAS-SARSAT and/or GEOSAR network, they can converge on theposition estimated by the satellite. With GPS data in the message SAR authorities canknow your precise location and speed up reaction time. Intermediate and short rangelocation is aided by the unit with its on board radio beacon homing signal transmitter(121.5 MHz).1.2.4 Power is provided by a self-contained long life battery pack that has a recommended 5-year replacement cycle. See Factory Authorized Service Center for replacement (Section4.0 – Maintenance).1.2.5 Self-test (Section 2.5) is initiated by momentarily lifting the switch to the test position(vertical stance) then releasing back to original position. During self-test, an actualsatellite message is transmitted and certain key performance parameters are measured andrecorded. The self-test message is modified such that the satellite will not forward an alertmessage during self-test. The LED will flash 3 times amber before turning green. Duringthis time the unit will also beep 3 times to indicate correct operational status.Approximately 2 seconds after self-test the unit will beep and the amber LED will flash toindicate if the unit has GPS data.
Y1-03-0155 Rev. A31.3 SATELLITE DETECTION1.3.1 The beacon transmits an encoded phase modulated radio signal to the SAR satelliteportion of the COSPAS-SARSAT System. The system was developed and implementedby the COSPAS-SARSAT Partners (Russian Federation, Canada, France and the UnitedStates).1.3.2 COSPAS-SARSAT is an international system that uses Russian Federation and UnitedStates low altitude, near polar orbiting satellites that assist in detecting and locatingactivated 121.5/243 MHz and 406 MHz Satellite beacons. The Russian Federationprovides aboard COSMOS navigational spacecraft COSPAS payloads that are inter-operable with the SARSAT System. In addition to weather and environmental sensors,SARSAT payloads, provided by Canada and France, are carried aboard the United StatesNational Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Advanced TIROSenvironmental satellites.1.3.3 COSPAS and SARSAT satellites receive distress signals from the beacon transmitting onthe frequency of 406 MHz. The COSPAS-SARSAT 406 MHz satellite signal consists ofa transmission of non-modulated carrier followed by a digital message format thatprovides identification data for SAR authorities. The 406 MHz system uses spacecraft-borne equipment to measure and store the Doppler-shifted frequency data along with thesatellite digital data message including GPS data, and time of measurement to identifyyour position. This information is transmitted in real time to an earth station called theLocal User Terminal (LUT), which may be within the view of the satellite, as well asbeing stored for later transmission to other LUTs. In the real-time mode, the signaldetection is limited to a mutual satellite-LUT circular visibility area of about 2500 kmradius that moves with the satellite along its track. However, because of the stored-modecapability at 406 MHz, the need for this mutual satellite-LUT visibility is not essential,and the system is fully functional in just the global mode.1.3.4 The LUT processes the Doppler-shifted signal and determines the location of the distresssignal; then the LUT relays the position of the distress signal to a Mission Control Center(MCC) where the distress alert and GPS location information is immediately forwardedto an appropriate Rescue Coordination Center (RCC). The RCC dispatches Search andRescue (SAR) forces.1.3.5 The COSPAS-SARSAT System includes 36 LEOSAR LUT Stations, 6 GEOSAR LUTstations and 19 Mission Control Centers that provide real-time as well as global-modecoverage for the Northern Hemisphere, while the Southern Hemisphere is presentlyserved primarily by the global-mode. Additional LUTs and MCCs are planned forinstallation in the near future both in the northern and southern hemispheres.The addition of the GEOSAR Satellite system greatly improves the reaction time for aSAR event. This satellite system has no Doppler capabilities at 406 but will relay thedistress alert to any of the LUT stations. When there is GPS data included in the distress
Y1-03-0155 Rev. A4message this will instantly tell SAR authorities where you are located. Hence speedingup the reaction time by not having to wait for one of the LEOSAR satellite's to comearound.GEOSAR SATELLITE COVERAGEFIGURE 1SAR SATELLITE ORBITSFIGURE 21.3.6 Because most of the search and rescue forces presently are not equipped to home on the406 MHz Satellite signal, homing must be accomplished at 121.5 MHz.1.3.7 The P-EPIRB™ 406 is a Class 1, P-EPIRB.
Y1-03-0155 Rev. A51.4 AUTHORIZATIONS1.4.1 The P-EPIRB™ 406 meets the requirements of the RTCM version 1:1997 for PLB’s, andCospas/Sarsat T.001 & T.007.1.5 CHARACTERISTICS1.5.1 The beacon is a floatable; battery operated unit that accepts external GPS data via an I/Rinterface cable that is included with your unit. The beacon case, with its external antenna,is waterproof. The semiconductor circuits are mounted within the case assembly alongwith the battery power supply. A “On/Off” switch is installed on top of the beacon, alongwith an internal beeper.1.6 TECHNICAL DATA 1.7 1.6.1 Applicable DocumentsCOSPAS-SARSAT Document C/S T.001 & T.007 (specification for 406 MHz distress beacons)RTCM RTCM Version 1.0 19971.6.2 Specifications406 MHz TransmitterFrequency 406.025 MHzFrequency Stability ±2 parts per billion/100msOutput Power 5 wattsDigital Message FormatLong message / serialized Message protocol Standard Location or optional National locationProtocol Duration 520 ms Rate 400 BPS Encoding Biphase L Modulation ±1.1 radians peakThe unit leaves ACR with a serialized code but can be reprogrammed at a service centerto other coded formats including country of registration.121.5 MHz TransmitterFrequency 121.5 MHzFrequency Tolerance ±50 ppm
Y1-03-0155 Rev. A6Output Power 25 mW PEPModulation Type AM (3K20A3N) Sweep Range 400 to 1200 Hz Sweep Rate 3 Hz Duty Cycle 37.5%AntennaFrequency 406.025 & 121.500 MHzPolarization VerticalVSWR Less than 1.5/1General/EnvironmentalBattery Life Operating 24 hours minimum @ -40°C Replacement Interval 5 yearsSize Unit less Antenna 6.65 x 3.55 inchesMaterial High impact and UV resistant plastic Color HighVisibility YellowWeight 514 gramsTemperature Range Operating Class I -40°C to +55°C BLOCK DIAGRAMFIGURE 3USER /PROGRAMMINGINTERFACEMCP406 / 121.5 MHz RFAMPLIFIER
Y1-03-0155 Rev. A7KNOWN COMPATIBLE RECEIVERSManufacturer Model Notes Y2K and EOW CompliantB&G Network LCD Plotter / DGPS *YesB&G Network LCD Plotter / GPS *YesB&G Network GPS and DGPS *YesB&G Network GPS *YesData Marine Chartlink D7000 XT *YesData Marine Chartlink D7000 XTC *YesData Marine Chartlink II D8000 *YesData Marine Link D3500 *YesData Marine Link D3500 LD *YesFuruno GP1810F *YesFuruno GP1810 *YesFuruno GP1610C *YesFuruno GP1600F *YesFuruno GP1600 *YesFuruno GP30 *YesFuruno GP35 *YesGarmin 10 *YesGarmin 12 *YesGarmin 20 *YesGarmin 25 *YesGarmin 30 *YesGarmin 31 *YesGarmin 35 *YesGarmin 36 *YesGarmin 38 *YesGarmin 40 *YesGarmin 45 *YesGarmin 48 *YesGarmin 50 *YesGarmin 75 *YesGarmin 85 *YesGarmin 89 *YesGarmin 90 *YesGarmin 92 *YesGarmin 95 *YesGarmin 120 *YesGarmin 126 *YesGarmin 128 *YesGarmin 130 *YesGarmin 135 *Yes
Y1-03-0155 Rev. A8Manufacturer Model Notes Y2K and EOW CompliantGarmin 175 *YesGarmin 180 *YesGarmin 185 *YesGarmin 190 *YesGarmin 195 *YesGarmin 210 *YesGarmin GPSMAP 215 *YesGarmin 220 *YesGarmin GPSMAP 225 *YesGarmin GPSMAP 230 *YesGarmin GPSMAP 235 SOUNDER *YesGarmin 120XL *YesGarmin 12XL *YesGarmin 45XL *YesGarmin 55AVD *YesGarmin 95XL *YesGarmin GPS II *YesGarmin GPS II+ *YesGarmin GPS III *YesLowrance GlobalMap 12 *YesLowrance GlobalMap 1600 *YesLowrance GlobalMap Sport Some older versions of softwaremay not output GGA, contactManufacturerYesLowrance LMS-160 *YesMagellan GPS 2000 XL *YesMagellan GPS 3000 *YesMagellan GPS 3000 XL *YesMagellan GPS 4000 *YesMagellan GPS 4000XL *YesMagellan Meridian XL *YesMagellan Trailblazer *YesMagellan Trailblazer XL *YesMagellan White Meridian *YesNorthStar 941X *YesNorthStar 951X *YesNorthStar 961X *YesRaytheon Autohelm ST50 Plus GPS *YesRaytheon GPS-11 *YesRaytheon HSB Chart Plotter *YesRaytheon NavCenter 600 *Unit will display wrong time and dateafter Y2K. Send unit to manufacturerfor upgradeRaytheon Raychart 620 *Unit will display wrong time and dateafter Y2K. Send unit to manufacturerfor upgradeRaytheon RC-520 *YesRaytheon RL-70RC *Yes
Y1-03-0155 Rev. A9Manufacturer Model Notes Y2K and EOW CompliantSi-Tex DGPS-11 *YesSi-Tex GPS-1 *YesSi-Tex GPS-10 *YesSi-Tex GPS-10A *YesSi-Tex GPS-4A *YesSi-Tex GPS-5 *YesSi-Tex GPS-6 *YesSi-Tex GPS-7 *YesSi-Tex GPS-77P *YesSi-Tex GPS-8 *YesSi-Tex GPS-88P *YesSi-Tex GPS-9 *YesSi-Tex GPS-99P *YesSi-Tex GPS-9D *YesSi-Tex HG-7 *YesSi-Tex SBR-90 *YesSi-Tex SBR-91 *YesTrimble 4000DSi *Firmware must be upgraded to V7.19to complyTrimble 4000RSi *Users of Firmware V7.15 - V7.18must upgrade to V7.19. Users ofV7.28 must upgrade to V7.29. Usersof V7.29 are fully compliantTrimble 7400MSi *YesTrimble MS750 *YesTrimble Navgraphic XL *N/A - No Date OutputTrimble NavMariner DGPS *YesTrimble NavTrac GPS *Version 2.09 is compliant. Earlierversions are not being testedTrimble NT200 *YesTrimble NT200D *YesTrimble NT300D *YesTrimble DSM *Yes for versions 1.10 and laterTrimble NT100 *YesGPS units compatible with ACR Beacons based on vendor information(*) Indicates that unit complies with ACR requirementsKnown Compatible GPS ReceiversFIGURE 4
SECTION 2 – OPERATION2.1 GENERAL2.1.1 The beacon is designed to be manually deployed and activated.2.1.2 The beacon can accept NMEA 0183 GPS Data (Version 1.5 and above, the GGAsentence string must be enabled) through its I/R interface. Data is updated every30 minutes once an initial position is acquired.2.1.3 The beacon is also designed to allow the user to perform periodic testing andconfirmation of GPS connection and downloaded coordinates.2.1.4 The beacon checks for a valid GPS data approximately every 2 seconds if nocurrent valid data exists.2.1.5 The beacon will update its GPS data by initiating the self-test function if data ispresent.2.1.6 The beacon will hold the last GPS coordinates in memory until the unit isactivated. After deactivating the unit, GPS data is returned to default.2.2 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS2.2.1 ActivationUnfold Antenna from around unit and move Antenna to a Vertical position (SeeFigure 6) Lift Switch to the "ON" Position by lifting up and sliding over thendown to "ON" to activate the unit. "ON" position is indicated by "y" on the face ofthe switch. Your beacon comes with a Breakaway tab on the switch to keep fromaccidental turn-on. PUSH SWITCH down to break TAB in case of an emergency.Once activated the unit will; Beep and the RED LED will begin to flash one redflash approximately every 20 seconds. Unit will send Rescue message approx.every 50 seconds and will beep after each message that has been sent. Keepbeacon with you at all times.2.2.2 DeactivationTurning the switch to the “Off” position will deactivate the beacon.If the beacon continues to operate after it has been deactivated, remove the twoscrews at the bottom of the unit, and unplug the battery to disable the unit.Return it to a service center for repair.10
Y1-03-0155 Rev. A112.2.3 Self TestThe beacon self-test is initiated by lifting the switch at the top of the unit to aVertical Position momentarily and releasing it back to the "Off" position. Switchis spring loaded to return to the "Off" position.Note: "Off" Position indicated by a "O" on switch face "ON" by "y", on the faceof the switch.Upon lifting the switch, a very short yellow flash will indicate self-test has beeninitiated then the following:Sequence of Tests1. Check Data I/O .........................................Beep & flash yellow LED if pass...................................................................Stop if failed2. Check 406 MHz Synthesizer.....................Beep & flash yellow LED if passed...................................................................Stop if failed3. Check RF Power/Battery...........................Beep & flash yellow LED if passed...................................................................Stop if failed4. Unit turns on green LED to indicate Successful Test.5. Approximately 2 seconds after the LED flashes green it will flash amber andbeep if valid external GPS data has been received.A successful test result is indicated by: a short beep then three beeps with threeyellowish flashes concurrently then the LED turns green for pass.NOTE: The 121.5 MHz homing beacon is inhibited during self-test.It is strongly recommended to test the beacon on a quarterly basis.SELF TESTFIGURE 5
Y1-03-0155 Rev. A12OPERATING POSITIONFIGURE 6SECTION 3 -EXTERNAL GPS I/R ADAPTER3.1 GENERALYour unit comes with a GPS cable Plug Adapter that can be interfaced to yourGPS receiver to input actual GPS data into your beacon. This extra data can helpimprove reaction time to your position in the event of an emergency. This data isparticularly helpful when the GEOSAR Satellite system picks up the DistressAlert.3.2 GPS ADAPTER3.2.1 Connecting:Your External GPS I/R cable attaches to your UNIT and the GPS receiver,forming a Link for data to transfer. (Like a printer) The cable Plug’s into thesocket labeled GPS located at the top of the unit. The other end has two wires thatneed to be connected to the GPS Receiver’s Data/Power Cable. Consult your GPSManual for wire identification.
Y1-03-0155 Rev. A13The Data/Power cable for your GPS receiver typically has connections for anexternal power source and data output. Ensure proper connection.The External GPS adapter that is supplied with your UNIT has two wires that arepolarized. The wire with the white stripe on it is the + data lead and should beconnected to the + Data lead of your GPS Data/Power connector. The other leadwith no stripe is the - Data lead and should be connected to the - Data lead of yourGPS Data/Power Cable. Use an Epoxy type Heat shrink for weatherproofingconnection.GPS ADAPTER ILLUSTRATIONFIGURE 73.2.2 Setup:The Data protocol your beacon will be accepting is the NMEA 0183 Version 1.5and above. Set baud rate to 4800 and the GGA sentence string needs to beenabled. Some GPS receivers have options on what strings are enabled. Ensurethe GGA string is enabled. Consult your GPS manual for further information. Thisis a very common standard for GPS receivers. Check your cable to ensure that the polarity is correct for the + data and – dataleads. It will not work if polarity is wrong. Your GPS receiver needs to be set to this data protocol for data transfer into thebeacon. If the beacon is not showing conformation of GPS data check, protocol,baud-rate, ensure GGA string is enabled and cable is wired correctly. See Figure 4 for known compatible GPS receivers. Consult your GPS manual forproper data protocol settings.3.2.3 Testing:Plug the Adapter into the top of the UNIT into the socket labeled GPS.
Y1-03-0155 Rev. A14Ensure your GPS has acquired a valid position. Momentarily lift the "ON/OFF"switch to the self-test position and stand-by. The beacon will go through it’s selftest routine and approx. 2 seconds after the LED turns green the unit will beeponce and the Yellow LED will flash to indicate that valid GPS data has beentransferred into your UNIT. Repeat step 3.2.2 if no conformation. The beacon will automatically up load new GPS position every 30 minutes if youleave it connected to your GPS receiver.When you activate self-test the beacon will start to look for new GPS data andupdate accordingly, if no new data is present or cable is disconnected the originaldata will still stay in memory.Once data has been loaded into your UNIT it will remain there until the unit isactivated to the "ON" mode.EXTERNAL GPS I/R CABLEFIGURE 83.2.4 Default data:Default data is when there is no GPS data in the unit. The beacon reverts todefault data once the unit has been activated and then shutoff. The unit willfunction normally without GPS data.4.0 MAINTENANCE
Y1-03-0155 Rev. A154.1 Carefully inspect the unit’s case for any visible cracks. Cracks may admitmoisture, which could falsely activate the beacon or otherwise cause amalfunction. Any cracking observed should be immediately referred to ACR ornearest distributor for evaluation, (1-800-432-0227 Ext. 112) toll free in the USA.4.2 The battery must be replaced by the date indicated on the beacon. At eachinspection, check the time remaining until replacement is required. NOTE: There are no user serviceable items inside the unit. DO NOT OPEN THEbeacon UNLESS TO DISABLE IN CASE OF FAULTY ACTIVATION. Refer alllong life battery replacement and other internal unit service to a factory authorizedservice center. For the nearest location of a factory authorized service center, call1-800-432-0227 Ext. 112 (toll free in the USA) or +1 (954) 981-3333, Ext. 112.It is strongly recommended to test the beacon on a quarterly basis.5.0 REGISTRATION5.1 It is imperative that this unit is registered with NOAA (National OceanicAtmospheric Administration) if used in the USA or with your own nationalauthority accordingly. The beacon has been programmed with a uniqueidentification number or code which is broadcast on 406 MHz. Registration withthe appropriate national authority provides the Search and Rescue people withimportant information which will speed up the rescue operation and minimizefalse alarms.5.2 To register this unit with NOAA, simply fill out and mail the provided form in theenclosed pre-addressed envelope to NOAA or FAX the completed form to (301)457-5406.5.3 NOAA will supply a beacon registration decal, which is to be affixed to the unit.6.0 FALSE ALARMS6.1 Should there be, an inadvertent activation or false alarm, it must be reported to thenearest search and rescue authorities. The information that should be reportedincludes the units Unique Identifier Number (UIN); date, time, duration, andcause of activation; and the location at the time of activation. Information islocated on the label.6.2 Contact the appropriate national authority to report false alarms
Y1-03-0155 Rev. A16***WARNING***THIS TRANSMITTER IS AUTHORIZED FOR USEONLY DURING SITUATIONS OF GRAVEAND IMMINENT DANGER!FIGURE 9

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