ACR Electronics ACR-RLB36 RLB-36 GlobalFix iPro User Manual

ACR Electronics, Inc. RLB-36 GlobalFix iPro Users Manual

Users Manual

Product Support ManualACR Electronics, Inc.5757 Ravenswood RoadFort Lauderdale, FL 33312Tel : +1(954) 981-3333Fax: +1 (954) 983-5087www.acrelectronics.comEmail: info@acrelectronics.comEPIRBEmergency Position Indicating Radio BeaconRLB-36Y1-03-0233 Rev. T2
2* * * WARNING * * *THIS TRANSMITTER IS AUTHORIZED FOR USEONLY DURING SITUATIONS OF GRAVEAND IMMINENT DANGERDELIBERATE MISUSE MAY INCUR A SEVERE PENALTYMagnet Safe Distance1m (3.3 ft)Keep this beacon a safe distance away from all magnetic sourcesStereo Speaker Safe Distance1m (3.3 ft)Keep this beacon a safe distance away from all stereo speakersIF YOU HAVE ANY TROUBLE WITHYOUR NEW 406 BEACON, DO NOT RETURN IT TO THE STORE! CALL ACR ELECTRONICS AT +1 (800) 432-0227. WE WILL HELP YOU RESOLVE ANY PROBLEMS YOU MAY BE EXPERIENCING. MANY QUESTIONS CAN BE ANSWERED OVER THE PHONE.LIMITED WARRANTYThis product is warranted against factory defect in material and workmanship for a period of ve years from date of purchase or receipt as a gift. During the warranty period ACR Elec-tronics, Inc. will repair or, at its option, replace at no cost to you for labor, materials or return transportation, provided you obtain a Return Authorization from ACR Electronics, Inc., 5757 Ravenswood Road, Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. 33312-6645. To obtain a Return Authorization, call our Customer Service Department at (800) 432-0227. This warranty does not apply if the product has been damaged by accident or misuse, or as a result of service or modication by other than the factory. Except as otherwise expressly stated, the COMPANY MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS TO MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OR ANY OTHER MAT-TER WITH RESPECT TO THIS PRODUCT. The Company shall not be liable for, conse-quential or special damages.In order to place the warranty in effect, the accompanying registration card must be returned to us within ten days of purchase.
3Y1-03-0233 Rev. T2TABLE OF CONTENTSSECTION 1 – FOREWORD AND PRODUCT FEATURES 4SECTION 2 – REGISTRATION OF 406 MHZ BEACONS 52.1 Registration importance 52.2 Where to register 52.3 Registration in the United States 52.4 Leisure vessels in the United States 62.5 Commercial vessels in the United States 62.6 Do I need a radio station license? 62.7 Commercial vessels world wide 62.8 Registration outside the United States 62.9 Change of ownership or contact information 62.10 Lost or stolen EPIRBs 7SECTION 3 – FALSE ALARMS 73.1 Prevention of false alarms 73.2 Reporting of false alarms 7SECTION 4 – INSTALLATION 84.1 Mounting location 84.2 Visual inspection 84.3 Hydrostatic release unit (HRU) catagoy 1 beacon 8SECTION 5 – ACTIVATION AND DEPLOYMENT 95.1 Bracketconguration 95.2 Category I & 2 bracket dimensions 105.3 Congurationoverview 115.4 Automatic deployment and activation - Category I Beacons 125.5 Manual deployment and activation 125.6 Manual activation without deployment 135.7 Deactivation 13SECTION - 6 INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL GPS 136.1 Self testing the beacon 136.2 GPS acquisition with the external GPS 146.3 Using the external GPS interface 146.4 Testing the external GPS interface 146.5 Updating the external GPS position data 146.6 Internal GPS navigation system 156.7 Internal GPS Testing 156.8LEDindicationofGPSx 166.9 OLED display 16SECTION 7 – CARE AND MAINTENANCE 167.1 Routine maintenance 167.2 Battery replacement 167.3 Shore based maintenance for SOLAS Vessels 177.4 Annual testing for SOLAS vessels, IMO MSC/Circ. 1040 17SECTION 8 – THE SEARCH AND RESCUE SYSTEM 178.1 General overview 178.2 Satellite detection 178.3 Global Positioning System (GPS) 18SECTION 9 – TECHNICAL INFORMATION 199.1 Type approvals and standards 199.2Specications 199.3 Support 219.4 Beacon Images 21
4SECTION 1 – FOREWORD AND PRODUCT FEATURESThank you for purchasing from ACR Electronics, Inc. We design, manufacture and distribute quality products knowing they are used to save lives. Many of our products are required to be tested and approved by regulatory bodies worldwide. We believe in going beyond those specications to insure our products work when needed in real world conditions. With proper care and maintenance your ACR product will last for years. It is important that you thoroughly read this product support manual to understand the proper care and use of your ACR product.ACR is proud to be certied to ISO 9001: 2000, the International Standard for Quality.This manual provides installation, operation and maintenance instructions for the RLB-36 EPIRB, hereinafter referred to as the beacon. This manual also describes the characteris-tics and details of the beacon system. In the USA, the FCC authorizes the use of 406 MHz Radio beacon by any ship that is also equipped with a VHF ship station. This will make the 406 MHz radio beacon available for use on most U.S. ships and boats. Commercial EPIRB carriage requirements are contained in IMO and/or USCG regulations.Product Model NumberProduct NumberCategory Class GPS InterfaceGlobalFix™ iPro RLB-36 xxxx 1 2 Internal and externalGlobalFix™ iPro RLB-36 xxxx 2 2 Internal and external123456Product Features1. Sturdy antenna2. Ultrabright strobe can be seen for over 2 miles3. Secondary graphical OLED display unit4. Reective tape exceeds RTCM specications5. HIghly visible ACR-truse™ case is durable and withstands the harshest of environments6. Grips provide ease when holding the beacon while wet.Product FeaturesFigure 1
5Y1-03-0233 Rev. T2SECTION 2 – REGISTRATION OF 406 MHZ BEACONS2.1 Registration importanceIt is mandatory that the owner of this 406 MHz beacon register it with the national authority.* All 406 MHz beacons transmit a Unique Identier Number (UIN) when activated. This UIN is programmed in the beacon based on the country in which the beacon was purchased. Reg-istration provides the Search and Rescue (SAR) forces with up to date emergency contact information, which will speed up the launch of a rescue operation. The national authorities NOAA SARSAT Beacon RegistrationNSOF, E/SP34231 Suitland RoadSuitland, MD 20746For Faster Service, Register Online! In the United States:www.beaconregistration.noaa.govuse the information to verify if an actual emergency exists. Valuable search and rescue resources are wasted every year responding to false alarms. SAR forces will know who you are, what type of vessel you have, your homeport, and who to contact that might know of your current situation ONLY if your beacon has been properly registered. This will help expedite the launch of a rescue operation. All 406 MHz beacons are required to have their registration updated every two years.*The national authority is the governmental body responsible for EPIRB registration data-base administration for the country for which the EPIRB is programmed.2.2 Where to register The owner of a 406 MHz beacon (EPIRB) should register it with the national authority for which the beacon was programmed (typically the country where purchased), regardless of where they do their boating. However, the beacon must be reprogrammed if the boat or its owner moves or sails under a different national authority than the one for which the beacon was previously programmed. Each beacon is programmed with a Unique Identication Num-ber (UIN) for the country that the unit is shipped to, and will only be accepted for registration in that country. To verify the country for which a beacon is programmed, see the label with the UIN on the side of the unit. Units that do not have a country specied on the UIN label are programmed for the United States.2.3 Registration in the United StatesIt is the owner’s responsibility to register 406 MHz beacons that are programmed for and purchased in the United States. The national authority that accepts registrations in the Unit-ed States is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The fastest and easiest way to register your beacon with NOAA is to use the online registration database at www.beaconregistration.noaa.gov. If internet is not accessible then the owner should com-plete the enclosed registration form (Do not confuse this with the ACR Electronics warranty card) and mail with the pre-addressed, postage paid envelope to:The information provided on the registration form is used only for rescue purposes. Com-plete and send the registration immediately! Registration can be expedited by registering online or by faxing the registration form to Fax # (301) 817-4565. If the beacon is going to be placed into immediate service, register online or by fax.All registration forms will be entered in the 406 MHz beacon registration database within 48 hours of receipt. A conrmation letter, a copy of the actual registration and a proof-of-reg-istration decal will be mailed to you within two weeks. When you receive these documents, please check the information carefully and afx the decal to your beacon in the area marked “BEACON DECAL HERE.” If you do not receive conrmation back from NOAA, call toll free 1-888-212-7283 for assistance.
62.4 Leisure vessels in the United StatesIn the United States, leisure vessels are sometimes required to have a radio station license. Leisure vessels that are required to have a radio station license are required to modify that license when an EPIRB is added to the vessel. For information on whether you need a radio station license, see section 2.6 (below).2.5 Commercial vessels in the United States In the United States, commercial vessels that are required to have a radio station license are required to modify that license when an EPIRB is added to the vessel. For information on whether you need a radio station license, see section 2.6 (below).2.6 Do I need a radio station license?The information in this section is provided for informational purposes only. Always check the FCC’s website at http://wireless.fcc.gov/services/index.htm?job=licensing&id=ship_stations or call toll-free 1-888-CALLFCC (225-5322) for the latest information.You do not need a license to operate a marine VHF radio, radar, or EPIRBs aboard voluntary ships operating domestically. The term “voluntary ships” refers to ships that are not required by law to carry a radio. Generally, this term applies to recreation or pleasure craft. The term “voluntary ships” does not apply to the following:1. Cargo ships over 300 gross tons navigating in the open sea; 2. Ships certied by the U.S. Coast Guard to carry more than 6 passengers for hire in the open sea or tidewaters of the U.S.; 3. Power driven ships over 20 meters in length on navigable waterways; 4. Ships of more than 100 gross tons certied by the U.S. Coast Guard to carry at least one passenger on navigable waterways; 5. Tow boats of more than 7.8 meters in length on navigable waterways; and, 6. Uninspected commercial shing industry vessels required to carry a VHF radio. 7. Ships required to carry an Automatic Identication System (AIS) transceiver by the U.S. Coast Guard regulations enacted pursuant to the Maritime Transportation Secu-rity Act of 2000. Ships are considered as operating domestically when they do not travel to foreign ports or do not transmit radio communications to foreign stations. Sailing in international waters is permitted, so long as the previous conditions are met. If you travel to a foreign port (e.g., Canada, Mexico, Bahamas, British Virgin Islands), a license is required. Additionally, if you travel to a foreign port, you are required to have an operator permit.2.7 Commercial vessels world wide 406 MHz beacons that are carried on commercial vessels world wide should be registered with the country where the vessel is agged regardless of where the vessel operates. When a commercial vessel acquires a 406 MHz beacon from outside of its home country, the bea-con should be reprogrammed for the home country and registered there.2.8 Registration outside the United StatesIn countries other than the United States, 406 MHz beacons are registered with that coun-try’s national authority at the time of purchase. The sales agent should assist in lling out the forms and sending to that country’s national authority. To verify that the unit is properly programmed for that country, view the UIN label on the side of the unit. In the event that the beacon is not programmed for the country it has been purchased in, the sales agent, (if properly equipped) can reprogram the unit for that country.2.9 Change of ownership or contact informationIt is the owner’s responsibility to advise the national authority of any change in the informa-tion on the registration form. If the current owner of the beacon is transferring the beacon to a new owner, the current owner is required to inform the national authority by using their online database or by letter, fax or telephone, of the name and address of the new
7Y1-03-0233 Rev. T2owner. The new owner of the beacon is required to provide the national authority with all of the information requested on the registration form. This obligation transfers to all subse-quent owners. Registration forms for the United States are available from NOAA by calling 1 (888) 212-7283 or by visiting the ACR website at www.acrelectronics.com. 2.10 Lost or stolen EPIRBsInform NOAA immediately at 1-888-212-SAVE (7283), or your national authority, if your EPIRB has been lost or stolen. They will update your EPIRB registration information with the appropriate information. Stolen EPIRBs - Things That You Need To Do:• Report to your local authorities that the EPIRB has been stolen. • Contact NOAA at 1-888-212-SAVE (7283), or your national authority, with the following information so your EPIRB registration information can be updated with the appropri-ate remarks: Police Department Name, Phone Number, and Case Number If your EPIRB were to be activated, the information you provided will be forwarded to the appropriate search and rescue authorities who will ensure that your EPIRB gets back to you. If someone attempts to register an EPIRB reported as stolen, NOAA or your national authority will notify the appropriate police department. Visit www.cospas-sarsat.org for more detailed information.SECTION 3 – FALSE ALARMS3.1 Prevention of false alarmsAn ACR 406 MHz EPIRB can be activated in an emergency by two different methods. Whether you have a Category I or II, these methods are the same.1. When the beacon is out of its bracket and in the water, the unit will start transmitting.2. When the switch is moved to the “ON” position, in or out of the bracket, the unit will start transmitting.There are a few precautions that should be taken to prevent false alarms.• Do not mount or transport beacon within 3.3 ft/1 m of a magnetic source.• Do not store beacon outside of its bracket if it can get wet.• Do not mount EPIRB backwards in its bracket (lanyard roll must not be visible).• Do not clean beacon with a water hose and brush while out of its bracket.3.2 Reporting of false alarmsShould there be, for any reason, an inadvertent activation or false alarm, it must be reported to the nearest search and rescue authorities. The information that should be reported in-cludes the EPIRB 15-digit Unique Identier Number (UIN), date, time, duration and cause of activation, as well as location of beacon at the time of activation.To Report False Alarms in the United States Contact any of the Following:Atlantic Ocean / Gulf of Mexico USCG Atlantic Area Command Center Tel: (757) 398-6390Pacic Ocean Area /USCG Area Command Center Tel: (510) 437-3700USCG HQ Command Center Tel: (800) 323-7233To Report False Alarms Worldwide contact the national authority where your beacon is reg-istered.
8SECTION 4 – INSTALLATION 4.1 Mounting locationThe location selected must be sufciently rigid to support the weight of the total installation and at the same time consider vibration, exposure to the elements, exposure to surrounding hazards, such as equipment movement, doors being opened, accidental covering, person-nel trafc, etc., and yet be readily accessible at all times in the event of an emergency.Also to be considered in selecting a location for installation is the harmful effect that certain corrosive vapors might have on the beacon. Under no circumstances should a beacon be jeopardized by any foreign articles being temporarily or permanently positioned during “at sea” or “in port” activities.The beacon should face inboard on rail mount applications and should not be subjected to breaking waves.CAUTION: Care must be taken to prevent any lanyard, line, or other emergency equipment that may be attached to the beacon from becoming entangled or fouled which could prevent the beacon from being removed in an emergency. Do not at-tach the beacon lanyard to the vessel or mounting bracket.Do not mount the beacon 3.3 ft/1 m of strong magnetic or electrical elds, such as loud speakers, radar, high power radio transmitter or magnetic navigation compass.Mount the beacon in a vertical (antenna upward) position. In certain circumstances, such as medical emergencies or disabled vessels, manual activation of the beacon for location and homing purposes is sometimes requested. Mounting in this orientation provides the best homing signal.The Category I oat-free mounting bracket should be mounted securely to a vertical or hori-zontal surface (the mount has predrilled holes for attachment to a at surface) where there are no overhead obstructions. Location aboard a vessel must be chosen to allow the beacon to oat free of sinking craft and as high as possible, especially on small vessels. This will help ensure operation of the hydrostatic release unit in the event the vessel capsizes without sinking. See section 4.3 on removing the HRU.The Category I oat-free mounting bracket should be securely attached to the vessel. The use of #10 stainless steel hardware (not included) is recommended. 4.2 Visual inspectionVisually inspect the area surrounding the mounting bracket installation site for hidden haz-ards, obstacles, etc., that may have been overlooked during location selection. If there is any doubt as to the ready accessibility to the beacon at all times or if any condition may appear to be questionable, make a complete and thorough investigation before making nal approval of the installation.4.3 Hydrostatic release unit (HRU) catagoy 1 beaconThe ACR HydroFix™ HRU has an expiration date of 2 years from the date of installation or 3 years from the date manufactured, whichever comes rst. Upon installing your beacon or new HRU, permanently scratch the new expiration date on the HRU date calendar (as seen below).
9Y1-03-0233 Rev. T2Date of Installation Example:Date of installation of New HRU or First Installation of EPIRB including new HRU: August 1, 2007.This unit will need to be replaced in August of 2009. Scratch off “AUG 8” and “2006” on the HRU date calendarDate of Manufacture Example:On the bottom of the HRU a date of manufacture is pin stamped: 0806.This unit will need to be replaced in 0809. Scratch off “AUG 8” and “2009” on the HRU date calendarThe hydrostatic release can be replaced by removing the beacon from the bracket. Firmly press down on the spring at the bottom of the shelter, then slide the hydrostatic release as-sembly out of the keyed opening on the spring and mounting bracket. Discard the old HRU. Check the date manufactured on the bottom of the new HRU and insert the new hydrostatic release assembly in place by engaging it to the opening of the ejection spring and case. When replacing the HRU, ACR requires that you do not reuse any parts from the previ-ous HRU. Failure to replace the entire assembly can cause the bracket to malfunction. Al-ways use original ACR replacement parts (Replacement kit P/N 9490). Use of unauthorized replacement parts will void your warranty and may cause the bracket to malfunction. Place the beacon into the mounting bracket, (lanyard facing inward), and replace cover, securing in place with the cotter pin going through the hydrostatic release rod.SECTION 5 – ACTIVATION AND DEPLOYMENT5.1 BracketcongurationBracket CongurationFigure 2
102.62166.69.480240.8376.25.639143.214.001355.6.2807.15.2 Category I & 2 bracket dimensionsCategory I Bracket NOT TO SCALEFigure 3
11 Y1-03-0233 Rev. T2Category II Bracket Dimension Drawing NOT TO SCALEFigure 4 5.3 CongurationoverviewCategory I beacons are designed to be automatically deployed and activated. The beacon may also be hand held on the deck of vessels, or oated in water and attached to a raft or life vest with the lanyard provided. Category II beacons are designed to be manually deployed from the bracket. The beacon is designed to operate best while oating in water. Hand held operation should be avoided when possible. Do not operate inside life raft or under any similar cover or canopy. Use the lanyard to attach beacon to life raft or person after deployment. Caution - Do not attach lanyard to bracket or vessel. Both models of the beacon can be deployed and activated manually.Changes in the laws governing beacons have mandated that the beacon be ready at all times. If certain criteria are met, the beacon will begin transmitting. The beacon is equipped with sensors to determine if it is in water (a deployment condition). Category I and II brackets both contain a magnet that interacts with other sensors in the beacon to prevent activation if it is wet (also a deployment condition).Two conditions must be satised for the beacon to automatically activate:1) It must be out of its bracket2) It must be in the waterNote: Either condition by itself will not automatically activate the beacon.4.15105.56.061544.79121.61.2832.54.81122.2.133.31.3333.71.9248.81.1128.2
12The beacon is designed to allow the user to perform periodic testing while the beacon is in the release bracket.Category I: Place the beacon into the release bracket with the spooled lanyard inward. The beacon should now be rmly held in the Category I bracket and ready for automatic deploy-ment. Do not attach lanyard to bracket.Category II: Place the beacon into the bracket with the spooled lanyard inward. The beacon should now be rmly held in the Category II bracket and ready for manual deployment. Do not attach lanyard to bracket. Use the strap and buckle to secure the beacon. The strap should be adjusted tight against the beacon; tight enough so that it is almost difcult to en-gage the buckle. This should be checked periodically.5.4 Automatic deployment and activation - Category I BeaconsAutomatic deployment and activation occurs if the vessel sinks and the hydrostatic release device frees the beacon from the bracket allowing it to oat to the surface. Built-in sensors detect that the beacon is no longer in its bracket and is in water. This condition will automati-cally activate the beacon.A category I RLB-36 automatically activates using the following sequence: Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU) releases beacon Beacon becomes wet Water acts as condutor, electrical connection is made Beacon is activatedNOTE: TRANSMISSIONS OF THE 121.5 MHZ AND 406 MHZ SIGNAL WILL NOT OCCUR UNTIL 100 SECONDS AFTER ACTIVATION.5.5 Manual deployment and activationThe Category I beacon can be manually deployed by removing the retaining pin, removing the cover, and then removing the beacon from the bracket. Once removed, both the Catego-ry I and Category II beacons can be activated by placing the beacon in water OR by lifting the thumb switch to a vertical position, sliding it toward the antenna and pushing down to the opposite side of the beacon. Activating the beacon in this manner breaks off the Activation Indicator Plastic Pin and allows the switch to properly seat, showing the “ ▌ “ symbol (ON). A category I or category II RLB-36 manually activates with the following sequence:Remove the beacon from its bracketActivation method one: Place beacon in waterActivation method two: Lift the switch to a vertical position Slide the switch toward the antenna Push the switch down to the opposite side of the beaconOFF position: Note the Activation Indicator Plastic Pin ON position: Notice the Activation Indicator Plastic Pin has been broken off.Figure 5
13 Y1-03-0233 Rev. T2Note: Some countries may ne vessel owners for causing false alarms. The per-manent breakage of the Activation Indicator Plastic Pin is a positive indication of a manual activation.5.6 Manual activation without deploymentThe beacon can be activated while still in its bracket by placing the thumb switch in the ON position. Activation by this method overrides all sensors and turns the beacon “ON.” The caution note above still applies. 5.7 DeactivationIf manually activated, return the thumb switch to the “OFF” position.If automatically activated: remove the beacon from the water. The beacon normally takes up to 12 seconds to deactivate, or place the beacon back into the release bracket.If the beacon continues to operate after it has been deactivated, remove the four screws holding the unit together and unplug the battery to disable the unit. Return it to a service center for repair.SECTION - 6 INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL GPS6.1 Self testing the beaconThe full functional self-test is initiated by momentarily lifting the thumb switch to a vertical position and holding it in this position for at least one second and at most 4 seconds. A beep indicates the initiation of the test, and the self test will attempt 5 functional test sequence as described in Figure 6. The rst red/green LED ash indicates if the electronic witness is broken. Then if all tests pass, the buzzer will beep an additional ve times as the green LED lights simultaneously. The last green LED ash and the smiley faces shown on the display indicates a successful test. However, if the test fails at any step, there will be no beep and the red LED will ash with the “x” shown on the display. The self-test will stop at that step. During the self-test, an actual satellite message is transmitted while certain key performance parameters are measured and recorded. The self-test message is modied to prevent the satellite from forwarding an alert message during self-test.The RLB-36 beacon may be self-tested as much as is warranted, up to a mazimum of 60 (sixty) times in the 5 (ve) year life of the battery, or once per month for the life of the bat-ery.TEST DISPLAY SUCCESS FAILEEPROM Connect Beep, Green LED Test Stopped Red LEDLock Circuit Beep, Green LED Test Stopped Red LEDSignal Strength Beep, GreenLED Test Stopped Red LEDGPS Ready Beep, Green LED Test Stopped Red LEDLocator Light Beep, Green LED, Strobe Test Stopped Red LEDSummary Green LEDFigure 6*NOTE: The “beeps” are a very high-pitched tone that some people may not to hear. When peroforming the self test, count the red LED ashes . PLL þ 406 þ GPS þ ☼ þ☺☺☺ þ
146.2 GPS acquisition with the external GPSThe RLB-36 is tted with an optical interface to connect with an external Global Positioning System receiver that will determine the latitude and longitude of its position to be transmit-ted to the emergency system. When RLB-36 is coupled to a working external GPS receiver, it immediately begins downloading data. Once valid position data has been obtained, the beacon will attempt to update the positional data every 20 minutes. The RLB-36 will store the last valid positional data for up to 4 hours, if it becomes unable to obtain new updated data. It will update this data if and only if it receives new good positional data from the external GPS receiver.The black lead wire with white stripes should be connected to the positive transmitter pin. The black wire should be connected to the negative pin.If the external GPS receiver is operational and the connection has been correctly made to the optical interface, the green LED in the optical interface will start ashing.NOTE: The baud rate output for your GPS receiver NMEA 0183 should be 4800 bps. If you are not sure if your receiver is NMEA 0183 compliant, check the inter-face settings listed in your GPS manual. To optimize your GPS Interface feature be sure that your GPS receiver is equipped with a NMEA 0183 Version 1.5 or higher with GPGGA sentence enabled.6.3 Using the external GPS interfaceOnce a compatible, operating GPS receiver is connected to RLB-36, the beacon will store data for incorporation into the emergency message, which is transmitted to the satellite when it is activated in an emergency. This can provide more accurate positioning data to the Search and Rescue Authority and may lead to a faster rescue. Since the last valid GPS position data may stay in the memory for up to 4 hours, the user should take care to make sure that the GPS position data stored is accurate. This can be accomplished by two methods: rst, by always leaving a properly functioning GPS connected to the beacon before activation and second, by connecting a properly functioning GPS with a valid position x and allowing sufcient time to acquire valid GPS position data. This will take a nominal 20 minutes if old GPS position data is stored in the memory. If there is no old GPS position data present, the beacon will ac-quire current data within a minute of being connected to a GPS with a valid position x. You can force the beacon to update its position at any time by connecting to a GPS with a valid position x and initiating the Self-Test. If no valid GPS position data is available, the beacon will keep the previously stored GPS position data for up to 4 hours. In this case, call ACR Customer Service at +1 (954) 981-3933 for instructions on how to reset the beacon with the default message.6.4 Testing the external GPS interfaceConnect the optical interface plug to the beacon bezel and allow sufcient time for the GPS receiver to acquire valid GPS position data (usually less than 1 minute; but it can take up to 20 minutes). Lift the thumb switch to the vertical (Self-Test) position and release. Your bea-con will conrm that it has acquired valid GPS data by displaying the latitude and longitude coordinates on the display. This will occur after the “smiley faces” are displayed at the end of Self-Test.6.5 Updating the external GPS position data When the beacon is properly connected to a functioning and compatible GPS receiver, GPS position data is automatically updated about every 20 minutes, while valid GPS position data NMEA Cable WiresFigure 7
15 Y1-03-0233 Rev. T2is present. The operator can force the acquisition of new GPS position data, by executing a Self-Test with the beacon connected to a GPS with a valid position x. This bypasses the normal, programmed, waiting time of 20 minutes for the automatic update of GPS position data. If the new GPS position is acquired, the coordinates will be displayed, after the beacon has completed the Self-Test.A new beacon is programmed with the GPS position data set to “default.” This default GPS position data indicates, upon activation, to the satellite system that the beacon has no valid GPS position stored in memory. Once a functioning and compatible GPS receiver is properly connected to the beacon, this “default” data will be replaced by valid GPS position data, as described in the previous sections. 6.6 Internal GPS navigation systemThe RLB-36 is tted with an internal Global Positioning System receiver that will determine the navigational coordinates, latitude and longitude, of its position on the globe to be trans-mitted to the emergency system. The internal GPS will be formatted in accordance with the NMEA-0183 interface. The serial rate will be 9600 baud, eight data bits, no parity and one stop bit. When the RLB-36 is turned on the GPS is immediately turned on and it attempts to acquire good navigation data for a period of 30 minutes. If the GPS receiver obtains good data anytime in this period or the 30 minutes elapses, the GPS receiver is turned off for 20 minutes and 45 seconds. This is to prevent an update from happening in less than 20 min-utes. GPS data can be acquired anytime the GPS is on, but only good quality factor data is recognized and saved. Once the beacon acquires good quality GPS data in this manner it puts the GPS data into the next transmitted 406 MHz digital message. After the GPS is turned off for 20 minutes and 45 seconds, the GPS is turned on for ten minutes to attempt to acquire or update good navigation data. If the GPS acquires good data or the 10-minute period elapses, the GPS is turned off for another 20 minutes and 45 seconds. The third time the beacon looks for GPS data the GPS is turned on for 5 minutes. From then on each GPS on time is 5 minutes and each following off period is increased by an additional 9 minutes until the GPS has been on fo r a total of 18 periods, at this time the off time the GPS engine reaches 2.5 hours, then it turns on for 5 minutes then off for 2.5 hours, till the battery dies out.6.7 Internal GPS TestingThis test is NOT required as 100% of all GPS receivers that leave ACR have been tested to ensure they perform perfectly. However, if you would like to ensure your GPS receiver is working, please follow these instructions very closely.Warning: To conserve battery power the following test should not be performed more than once during the ve-year life of the battery pack!Note: The GPS receiver is located under the top cap (next to the thumb switch). It is impera-tive that the receiver is not obstructed during self test or activation to ensure that the GPS receiver is acquiring your latitude (LAT) and longitude (LON) position. This test must be performed outside with a clear view of the sky.To test the internal GPS you must be outdoors and have a clear view of the sky. Observe the beacon for the entire GPS test. Lift the thumb switch to vertical position and hold it in this position for at least 9 seconds. The “GPS” will display on the OLED and a beep will indicate that the GPS has been turned on. The GPS will remain ON until LAT/LON coordinates have been obtained or until 10 minutes have elapsed. If good navigation data has been obtained, the GPS will be turned OFF and the coordinates will be displayed on the OLED display. The LAT/LON data is not saved for use when then beacon is turned on and there is no RF burst during this GPS test. This is only to proof that the GPS is functioning properly and that the beacon is in a location or environment where it can receive the necessary signals from satellites. If the GPS does not acquire good navigation data, the GPS will turn OFF after 10 minutes.
166.8LEDindicationofGPSxWhen the RLB-36 is in On mode, the red LED, Light Emitting Diode, ashes every 1 second for the rst hour then 3 seconds after to indicate the RLB-36 is turned on and operating. As soon as the GPS receiver acquires good navigational data the red LED stops blinking and the green LED ashes once every two seconds to indicate that the internal GPS receiver has acquired good navigational data. The color of the On mode LED that ashes once every 1 or 3 seconds in On mode always indicates whether the 406 message being transmitted contains good navigation data or default data. Green indicates good navigation data, red indicates default data. Once good navigation data is acquired, the data is put into the digital message of the next 406 MHz transmitted burst. If for any reason a time period of 4 hours passes without the GPS receiver being able to update the last good set of navigational data, the message transmitted by the RLB-36 will revert back to default data. At this point the green LED will stop blinking and the red LED will ash 1 every 3 seconds. If at any time after this, good navigational data is obtained, the green LED will ash, this new data will be transmitted in the following burst and the green LED will continue to ash once every 3 seconds.6.9 OLED displayThe Organic Light- Emitting Diode (OLED) display in the beacon is used as a secondary indicator, supporting the green/red LED and the beep sound to indicate the status of the beacon during the self test and emergency operation.In self test, the OLED displays the test result of each step with “√” indicating a pass and “X” indicating a failure. There are total ve test steps: EEPROM content, phase locker loop, 406 power output, internal GPS module and the strobe light. If all tests pass, “smiley face” emoti-cons will be displayed at the end of the self test mode. This will be followed by the GPS co-ordinates horizontally scrolling through the display, provided the beacon has a downloaded external GPS location. A long GPS test may be invoked by holding the switch in test position after self test com-pletes. The display will show the letters “GPS” moving left and right while the internal GPS is acquiring coordinates data. Once the data is acquired, the coordinates will scroll through the display as a conrmation that the data was successfully acquired.When the beacon is activated, the display will show a brief welcome message. The beacon then begins to send 406 MHz emergency signal bursts. After each 406 burst, indicated by a beep, GPS coordinates will be displayed, provided the data was acquired. The display animates the sending of the 406 message. The display also provides a battery gauge which appears for approximately 10 seconds each time between the 406 bursts.SECTION 7 – CARE AND MAINTENANCE 7.1 Routine maintenanceAt least every ninety days, the oat free mounting bracket and beacon should be inspected for deterioration and/or residue buildup that may affect the function of the beacon or auto-matic release. Part of the visual check includes checking the antenna for tightness. Clean the beacon and the mounting bracket to remove residue buildups. It is recommended that the beacon and mounting bracket be wiped with a damp cloth.Carefully inspect the beacon case for any visible cracks. Cracks may admit moisture, which could falsely activate the beacon or otherwise cause a malfunction. Any cracking observed should be immediately referred to ACR for evaluation by calling 1-800-432-0227 ext. 2155 in the US, or +1-954-981-3333 ext 2155 elsewhere.7.2 Battery replacementThe battery must be replaced by the date indicated on the beacon or every ve (5) years, whichever occurs rst. At each inspection, check the time remaining until replacement is required. The battery should be replaced if the beacon has been activated for any use other than the self test.
17 Y1-03-0233 Rev. T2Always refer all long life battery replacement and other beacon service to a factory autho-rized service center. Battery replacement includes servicing the beacon by replacing all o-rings, testing the water seal and the electrical properties.NOTE: There are no user serviceable items inside the beacon. DO NOT OPEN THE BEA-CON UNLESS TO DISABLE IN CASE OF FAULTY ACTIVATION. For the nearest location of a Battery Replacement Center, visit our website at www.acrelec-tronics.comThe beacon may or may not require special shipping instructions due to the lithium batteries and changes in shipping regulations. Please refer to ACR’s website www.acrelectronics.com for proper shipping instructions.7.3 Shore based maintenance for SOLAS VesselsSBM) IMO MSC/Circ. 1039The Maritime Safety Committee approved guidelines for shore-based maintenance of satel-lite beacons, for the purpose of establishing standardized procedures and minimum levels of service for the testing and maintenance of satellite beacons. First Shore Based Maintenance on all ACR EPIRBs is due at the date of the rst battery replacement.7.4 Annual testing for SOLAS vessels, IMO MSC/Circ. 1040SOLAS regulation IV/15.9 dictates annual testing of 406 MHz satellite EPIRBs. Testing should be carried out using suitable test equipment capable of performing the relevant mea-surements. All checks of electrical parameters should be performed in the self-test mode, if possible.SECTION 8 – THE SEARCH AND RESCUE SYSTEM8.1 General overviewBeacons provide distress alerts via radio transmission on 406 MHz to the LEOSAR satellites of the COSPAS-SARSAT network. The beacon can also transmit a distress alert (acquired by the internal or external GPS) to the GEOSAR network that includes GPS latitude and longitude coordinates.The message transmitted is unique for each beacon, which provides identication of the transmitter through computer access of registration les maintained by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or other national authority*. Remember, SAR forces will know who you are, what type of vessel you have, your home port, and who to contact that might know of your current situation ONLY if your beacon has been properly registered. This will help expedite the launch of a rescue operation. 406 MHz beacons are required to have their registration updated every two years.*The national authority is the governmental body responsible for EPIRB registration data-base administration for the country for which the EPIRB is programmed. Once the 406 MHz signal is relayed through the LEOSAR and/or GEO-SAR network, SAR forces determine who is closest, and then proceed to the beacon using the 121.5 MHz homing frequency.8.2 Satellite detection EPIRBs transmit to the satellite por-tion of the COSPAS-SARSAT system. COSPAS-SARSAT is an international Figure 9 - Satellite Coverage
18system that utilizes Russian Federation and United States’ low altitude, near-polar orbiting satellites (LEOSAR). These satellites assist in detecting and locating activated 406 MHz satel-lite beacons. COSPAS and SARSAT satellites receive dis-tress signals from EPIRBs transmitting on the frequency of 406 MHz. The COSPAS-SARSAT 406 MHz beacon signal consists of a transmis-sion of non-modulated carriers followed by a dig-ital message format that provides identication data. The 406 MHz system uses Satellite-borne equipment to measure and store the Doppler-shifted frequency along with the beacon’s digital data message and time of measurement. This information is transmitted in real time to an earth station called the Local User Terminal (LUT), which may be within the view of the satel-lite, as well as being stored for later transmission to other LUTs.The LUT processes the Doppler-shifted signal from the LEOSAR and determines the loca-tion of the beacon, then the LUT relays the position of the distress to a Mission Control Center (MCC) where the distress alert and location information is immediately forwarded to an appropriate Rescue Coordination Center (RCC). The RCC dispatches Search and Rescue (SAR) forces.The addition of the GEOSAR satellite system greatly improves the reaction time for a SAR event. This satellite system has no Doppler capabilities at 406 MHz, but will relay the dis-tress alert to any of the LUT stations. When there is GPS data included in the distress mes-sage, SAR authorities instantly know your location to within 110 yards (100 m). This speeds up the reaction time by not having to wait for one of the LEOSAR satellite to pass overhead. Because most of the search and rescue forces presently are not equipped to home in on the 406 MHz Satellite beacons signal, homing must be accomplished at 121.5 MHz.8.3 Global Positioning System (GPS) The GPS system is a satellite group that enables a GPS receiver to determine its exact posi-tion to within 30 m (100 ft.) anywhere on earth. With a minimum of 24 GPS satellites orbiting the earth at an altitude of approximately 11,000 miles they provide users with accurate infor-mation on position, velocity, and time anywhere in the world and in all weather conditions. Fig ure 11 - G PS S ate llite O rbits Figure 11 - GPS Satellite OrbitsFigure 10 - GEOSAR Satellite Orbits
19 Y1-03-0233 Rev. T2The GlobalFix™ stores this data into its distress transmission allowing search and rescue forces to narrow the search into a very small area and thus minimize the resources required and dramatically increase the effectiveness of the overall operation.SECTION 9 – TECHNICAL INFORMATION9.1 Type approvals and standardsThe RLB-35 meets the requirements of Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Part 80 and Category I EPIRBs meet the GMDSS requirements:TYPE APPROVALSFCC FCC ID: B66ACR-RLB35 (RLB-35)COSPAS-SARSAT Certicate Nos. 136, 173MED BSH Certicate No. 4612/506 0016/2005Notied Body: 0735Copies of certicates and additional worldwide type approvals are available at: www.acrelectronics.com.APPLICABLE STANDARDSFCC Part 80 Subpart V – EPIRBsPart 80 Subpart W – GMDSS (Cat. 1 only)RTCM RTCM Recommended Standards for 406 MHz Satellite EPIRBsCOSPAS/SARSAT C/S T.001 – Specication for C/S 406 MHz Distress BeaconsC/S T.007 –C/S 406 MHz Distress Beacon Type Approval Stan-dardMED Annex A.1, Item No. A.1/5.6 – 406 MHz (C/S) Satellite EPIRB 9.2SpecicationsGENERAL/ENVIRONMENTALBeacon size (without antenna)17.7 H X 10.67W X 9.09 D cm (6.97 X 4.2 X 3.58 inches)OLED size 1.0” diagonalBeacon weight 581 g (18.68 troy oz)Beacon material High impact UV resistant polymerColor ACR-treuse™ (high visibility yellow)Waterproof 10 min @10 m (33 ft), exceeds RTCM standardBuoyant YesDeployment Category I: Automatic hydrostatic releaseCategory II: ManualBATTERYOperational life 48 hours minimum @-20ºC (-4ºF) (Class 2)Battery type LiMNO2Battery replacement interval 5 years or after use in an emergencyOperating temperatures -20º C to +55º C (-4º F to +131º F) (Class 2)Storage temperatures -30º C to +70º C (-22º F to +158º F) (Class 2)
20406 MHz TRANSMITTERFrequency 406 MHzPower output 5 WDigital message format Standard location protocol (for the USA; Beacon can be repro-grammed at a service center to other coded formats, and to national location protocol) Duration 520 msFrequency stability +/- 2 bp/100 msRate 400 bpsModulation +/- 1.1 radiansEncoding Biphase L121.5 MHz TRANSMITTERFrequency 121.5 MHzFrequency tolerance +/-50 ppmPower output 25 mW PEPModulation type AM (3K20A3X)Sweep range 400- 1200 HzSweep rate 3 HzDuty cycle 37.5%STROBELight color WhiteOutput power 0.75 effective candelaFlash rate 20- 30/ minANTENNAHeight 21.21 cm (8.35 in)Frequency 406 MHz, 121.5 MHzPolarization VerticalVSWR Less than 1.5/1GPS antenna 12 channel parallel receiverGENERALAccessories Category I Mounting Case, ACR Part Number A3-06-2577Category II Mounting Brackets, ACR Part Number A3-06-2578 Universal Hydrostatic Release (HRU) Kit, ACR Part Number A3-06-2429-3 Replacement antenna, ACR Part Number A3-06-2554
21 Y1-03-0233 Rev. T29.3 SupportISSUE CONTACT TELEPHONE or WEBSITEPossible damage to beaconACR Electronics, Inc. US: 1-800- 432- 0227, extension 2155Outside the US: +1-954-981-3333, extension 2155Resetting beacon to allow downloading new GPS coordinatesACR Electronics, Inc. +1-954-981-3333General trouble with new beaconACR Electronics, Inc. 1-800- 432- 02279.4 Beacon ImagesBeacon standing uprightBeacon held in handBeacon oating in water

Navigation menu