Ocean Signal E100 Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) User Manual EPIRB Manual
Ocean Signal Ltd. Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) EPIRB Manual
User manual
Ocean Signal
User Manual
for the
SafeSea E100
SafeSea E100G
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons
2
In Case of Emergency
WARNING
USE ONLY IN SITUATIONS OF GRAVE AND IMMINENT DANGER
Remove the EPIRB from its mounting or housing
To manually activate EPIRB
BREAK
COVER
Remove the lanyard cover, holding on to the free end of the lanyard and
throw the EPIRB into the water
Break the
switch cover
Slide and hol
d the
Green switch to the left.
Slide the Red
switch
into the down position
3
EPIRB Programming Details
Insert your EPIRB programming details, as indicated on the side of your
EPIRB, into the form below.
UIN: ................................................................................................
Vessel Name: ................................................................................................
MMSI: ................................................................................................
Country: ................................................................................................
Call Sign: ................................................................................................
4
Contents
In Case of Emergency .....................................................................................2
Contents ..........................................................................................................4
1: Introduction ..................................................................................................5
2: Registration..................................................................................................6
2.1: Programming Details.............................................................................8
3: Installation....................................................................................................9
3.1: Location.................................................................................................9
3.2: Float Free Housing................................................................................9
3.2.1: Loading the EPIRB .........................................................................9
3.3: Mounting Cradle ..................................................................................10
3.3.1: Loading the EPIRB .......................................................................10
4: Operation ...................................................................................................12
4.1: Manual Operation................................................................................12
4.1.1: Releasing from an Enclosure........................................................12
4.1.2: Releasing from a Bracket..............................................................13
4.1.3: Manually Operating the EPIRB .....................................................13
4.2: Automatic Operation............................................................................14
4.3: De-activation .......................................................................................14
4.3.1: De-activation from Manual operation ............................................14
4.3.2: De-activation from Automatic Operation .......................................15
5: False Alerts................................................................................................16
5.1: Disabling the EPIRB............................................................................16
6: Maintenance ..............................................................................................17
6.1: Self Test Mode ....................................................................................17
6.2: GNSS Self Test Mode .........................................................................19
6.3: Inspection............................................................................................20
6.4: Battery Installation / Replacement.......................................................21
6.5: HRU Installation / Replacement.......................................................21
6.6: Service & Warranty .............................................................................22
7: Technical Information.................................................................................24
7.1: System Overview ................................................................................24
7.2: GPS System........................................................................................24
7.3: Technical Specification........................................................................25
5
1: Introduction
This manual provides valuable in formation for the installation, operation and
maintenance for both the SafeSea E100 and SafeSea E100G.
It covers the operation for both the:
SafeSea E100 EPIRB
&
SafeSea E100G EPIRB with GPS
Please read this manual completely before using your EPIRB. Parts of this
manual apply to the E100G only.
6
2: Registration
WARNING
THE OWNER OF THIS 406MHz EPIRB MUST REGISTER IT WITH THE
APPROPRIATE NATIONAL AUTHORITY.
FAILURE TO REGISTER THIS EPIRB MAY RESULT IN A FINE,
SLOWING THE RESCUE PROCESS OR EVEN LOSS OF LIFE.
All 406MHz EPIRBs are programmed with a unique identity number (UIN),
which is based upon the country of registration. This is normally the country to
which the vessel is flagged. Registration provides the Search and Rescue
authorities with the correct emergency contact details, which will speed up the
rescue process.
Once registration has been performed you should receive a “decal” sticker
which must be affixed to the area on the EPIRB marked “Attach proof of
registration in this area”. This decal is your proof of registration.
Useful registration contacts are:
UK EPIRB Registry
HM Coastguard (Southern)
Pendennis Point
Castle Drive
Falmouth
TR11 4WZ
For online UK registration go to:-
http://www.ukshipregister.co.uk/mcga07-home/emergencyresponse/mcga-
searchandrescue/epirb.htm
NOAA/SARSAT
NSOF, E/SP3
4231 Suitland Road
Suitland, MD 20746
USA
For online US Registration go to:-
https://beaconregistration.noaa.gov/rgdb/
This EPIRB is a radio transmitter; as such, you should update your existing
radio license to include this EPIRB.
7
When an EPIRB is transferred to a new vessel, the EPIRB must be re-
programmed to include the relevant information as required by the country
controlling the new vessel. As previously mentioned, the EPIRB UIN also
contains the country code; therefore, changing the country to which the vessel
is flagged will result in the EPIRB needing to be re-programmed.
Note: It is very important to ensure your EPIRB is registered with your
National Authority. The requested registration information will ensure that the
rescue authorities quickly identify the type of vessel they are searching for
and make contact to ensure the alert is not a false alarm. Although failure to
register your beacon will not stop you being rescued, it may cause
unnecessary delays and effort in the rescue centre.
8
2.1: Programming Details
Your EPIRB is supplied with a label titled “Programming Details”, this contains
areas where the programming details of the EPIRB can be marked with an
indelible permanent maker. This information includes:
1) UIN (Unique Identity Number).
2) Vessel Name.
3) MMSI.
4) Country.
5) Call Sign.
If this label has not been provided with the EPIRB information pre-inserted
then the user should write this information on the label using an indelible pen.
Affix the label to the left side of the EPIRB in the area provided. Then place
the clear label provided over the first label.
It is advised that this information is also copied into the section provided on
Page 3 of this manual.
9
3: Installation
WARNING
Ensure that the EPIRB is mounted away from any strong magnetic
sources such as loudspeakers, compass compensation magnets, etc.
Failure to follow the following installation guidelines may cause the
EPIRB to operate incorrectly.
3.1: Location
The location selected must be sufficiently robust to support the weight of the
complete installation. Exposure to the elements and surrounding hazards,
along with vibration should also be taken into consideration when choosing
the location. Ensure that the mounting location allows easy access to the
EPIRB for maintenance and servicing.
To ensure that the EPIRB will always float free from the sinking vessel ensure
that the float free housing is located high up on the superstructure, free from
any obstructions and located in a position that it will not be trapped,
regardless of the angle the sinking vessel may be in.
Ensure that when mounting the EPIRB, it is mounted with the antenna facing
upwards.
Do not mount the EPIRB closer than 1metre to any steering compass
as this may affect the accuracy of the compass.
Keep the EPIRB away from any strong magnetic sources such as
loudspeakers, compass compensation magnets, etc.
3.2: Float Free Housing
Using the dimensions, indicated above, use the four
No6 x 5/8” screws provided to secure the float free
housing to the chosen structure.
3.2.1: Loading the EPIRB
1) Lift the HRU back.
10
2) Load the EPIRB, controls facing up, into the location seat, ensuring
to carefully fold the antenna back behind the EPIRB.
3) Gently lower the HRU, this device also clamps the EPIRB in place.
4) Place the housing cover over the back, by placing the locating hole
(on the side of the housing) over the clips.
5) Push and rotate the housing release knob into the locked position.
Note: When replacing the EPIRB in the Float Free Housing please ensure that
the unit is clean and dry. The area around the activation controls and the
lanyard should be free from water and dirt to ensure reliable operation.
3.3: Mounting Cradle
Using the dimensions indicated, use the No6 x
5/8” screws provided to secure the cradle to the
chosen structure.
The cradle is designed for internal use. If it is
mounted in an external location it is done so at
the user’s discretion.
3.3.1: Loading the EPIRB
Align the back of the lanyard storage area, situated at the rear of the EPIRB,
with the clip mechanism of the cradle and push into place. There will be an
audible “click” indicating that the EPIRB is now secured in place.
25mm
50mm
11
Do not attach the lanyard to any part of the vessels superstructure or
other part that will hinder the release of the EPIRB.
12
4: Operation
WARNING
USE ONLY IN SITUATIONS OF GRAVE AND IMMINENT DANGER.
MISUSE MAY RESULT IN A SEVERE PENALTY.
The EPIRB is designed for best operation whilst floating in water. If used in
other situations ensure that the EPIRB is placed in the open, clear of any
cover and kept upright. Do not place the EPIRB close to large structures or
under cover.
In the case of abandoning ship, if possible, recover the EPIRB and tie to the
survival craft, or person using the lanyard.
For optimum operation, it is recommended that the EPIRB be tied to the raft
and floated in the water.
4.1: Manual Operation
4.1.1: Releasing from an Enclosure
1) Push & rotate, anti-clockwise, the housing release knob.
2) Tilt and lift the housing cover.
3) Lift the release mechanism and remove the EPIRB.
13
4.1.2: Releasing from a Bracket
Press the Grey release key on the right hand side of the bracket and remove
EPIRB.
4.1.3: Manually Operating the EPIRB
1) Break off the manual switch cover.
BREAK
CO VER
2) Slide and hold the Green switch to the left, then slide the Red
switch into the down position.
The EPIRB will now be operational. The strobe lights will begin to flash at a
rate of once every 2.5 seconds as soon as the unit is activated.
It is important that for best performance the EPIRB should be situated in an
upright position with a clear view of the sky and as far away from any metallic
structures as is possible.
If the EPIRB contains a GNSS receiver, ensure that the GPS antenna is not
obstructed and has a complete, unobstructed view of the sky – as indicated
on the top of the EPIRB.
A lanyard is provided to tether the EPIRB to the lifeboat or life raft to ensure
that it does not drift away. Make sure this is firmly attached.
14
EPIRB Operational Indicators
EPIRB Mode Green Indicator Red Indicator
Initial EPIRB
activation On for 1 second
Acquiring GPS
position * 1 Flash every 5
seconds
GPS position
acquired * Flash for 1
second
121.5MHz Tx **
1 flash, with
strobe light, every
2.5 seconds
406MHz Tx Flashed for 2
seconds
406MHz Tx, with
GPS position * Flashed for 2
seconds
406MHz Tx,
without valid GPS
position *
Flashed for 2
seconds
* SafeSea E100G only
** The 121.5MHz homer does not begin transmission until after the first
406MHz transmission – approximately 50 seconds.
4.2: Automatic Operation
The EPIRB will sense when it has been placed in water and automatically
begin to operate, after a short delay, in the same manner as described above.
If the EPIRB is mounted in the float free housing or on the bracket this
function is disabled until the EPIRB has been removed from either fixture.
If the EPIRB is mounted in a float free housing, if the vessel sinks, the EPIRB
will automatically be ejected from the housing allowing it for float to the
surface and begin transmission.
4.3: De-activation
4.3.1: De-activation from Manual operation
If the EPIRB was accidentally activated or the emergency situation has
passed, the EPIRB can be manually de-activated.
Slide and hold the Green switch to the left then slide the Red switch into the
up position.
15
4.3.2: De-activation from Automatic Operation
If the EPIRB was automatically activated, by placing in water, remove from
the water and dry. The EPIRB will automatically switch off after approximately
30 seconds.
16
5: False Alerts
False alerts are a serious problem they cause valuable resources to be
diverted away from real emergency situation. If a false alert is initiated, by any
means, it is important to contact the nearest search and rescue authorities
and inform them of the false alert.
Report the following:
1) EPIRB UIN.
2) Date, time and duration.
3) Cause of activation.
4) Location when the alert was activated.
5) Location at time of deactivation.
If the EPIRB was activated by mistake then turn it off. The first emergency
transmission will not occur for approximately 50 seconds, if the unit is turned
off in this time then EPIRB will not have sent an emergency distress.
If the unit has been dropped into the water then remove from the water and
dry the case, wait approximately 30 seconds for the water contacts to de-
activate.
If the unit is still flashing after this period, check that the unit has not been
manually activated; if so then follow the procedure to manually switch the
EPIRB off.
The EPIRB should now be switched off, replace the EPIRB on to the cradle or
into the float free housing.
The SafeSea E100/G is fitted with water detection contacts. Although these
contacts are hidden to help prevent accidental activation due to heavy sea or
weather conditions, the mounting bracket and float free housing is designed to
prevent activation of the water contacts in these conditions. Therefore, if the
EPIRB is not correctly fitted in it’s mounting it is possible that this may cause a
false alert situation.
5.1: Disabling the EPIRB
In the unlikely event that your EPIRB develops a fault and does not switch off
then to completely disable the unit remove the battery, as described in section
6.4.
17
6: Maintenance
6.1: Self Test Mode
WARNING
TEST TRANSMISSIONS ON THE HOMER FREQUENCY OF 121.5MHz
ARE LIMTED, BY THE INTERNATIONAL RADIO REGULATIONS, TO
WITHIN THE FIRST FIVE MINUTES OF AN HOUR.
It is recommended that the EPIRB is tested not more than once a month.
The EPIRB self test mode can be initiated by rotating the Grey test switch
clockwise and holding for 1 second, until the indicator begins to rapidly flash
Green. The test switch should be released once the indicator begins to flash
Green.
This will initiate a self test; be prepared to record the number of indicator
flashes upon completion of the test.
The self test monitors the 121.5MHz homer RF power, initiates a satellite
transmission in order to measure key performance parameters, will monitor
the 406MHz RF power, synthesiser lock and battery voltage under load. The
self test message is designed to prevent the satellite from forwarding an alert
message during self test. After the satellite transmission the strobe light is
flashed, demonstrating operation.
A successful test is determined by a series of Green indicator flashes –
between one and six flashes, this sequence is repeated after a 2 second
delay. A failure is determined by a series if Red indicator flashes – between
one and five flashes, this sequence is repeated after a 2 second delay.
18
The series of Green indicator flashes show how many hours use the EPIRB
has undergone. The series of Red indicator flashes show the failure mode.
Green Indicator Flashes
Red Indicator Flashes
No of Flashes No of Hours
Use
No of
Flashes
Mode of
Failure
1 Flash 0 to
1hr 59min
1 Flash 121.5MHz
homer
2 Flashes 2hrs to
3hrs 59min
2 Flashes 406MHz
generation
3 Flashes 4 hrs to
5hrs 59min
3 Flashes 406MHz power
amplifier
4 Flashes 6hrs to
7hrs 59min
4 Flashes Replace
battery
5 Flashes 8hrs to
9hrs 59min
5 Flashes Other failure
6 Flashes 10hrs +
19
6.2: GNSS Self Test Mode
WARNING
TESTING THE GNSS RECEIVER IS LIMITED TO 5 TESTS OVER THE
LIFETIME OF THE BATTERY.
TESTING THE GNSS RECEIVER EXPENDS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF
ENERGY FROM THE BATTERY PACK AND MAY TAKE UP TO 10
MINUTES TO COMPLETE.
THIS TEST MUST ONLY BE PERFORMED WHERE THE EPIRB HAS A
CLEAR AND UNOBSTRUCTED VIEW OF THE SKY. THIS IS REQUIRED
TO ALLOW THE GNSS RECEIVER TO ACQUIRE A SIGNAL FROM
SUFFICIENT SATELLITES TO ALLOW IT TO DETERMINE A POSITION.
If the user would like confidence that the GNSS receiver is operating correctly
then the test can be started by the following method. It is preferable not to
perform this test in direct sunlight as it may be make counting the LED’s
flashes at the end of the test difficult. The EPIRB must remain under
observation for the whole of the test to ensure the completion of the test is not
missed.
To enter the GNSS self test mode, perform the following procedure:
1) Rotate the Grey test key clockwise and hold for 1 second until
the indicator LED begins to rapidly flash Green.
2) Release the test switch and quickly reactivate the test switch
whilst the indicator is still rapidly flashing.
3) Hold the switch until the indicator begins flashing Green at a
slower rate, continue to hold the test key for 5 seconds.
4) Release the test switch when the indicator changes from
flashing Green to a constant Red.
The GNSS self test is now active, during the test the indicator will remain Red
and flash Green once every 5 seconds.
Successful completion of the test is displayed by the indicator flashing Green
for 10 seconds with the strobe light flashing every 2.5seconds. A failure upon
completion of the test is indicated by the indicator flashing Red for 10 seconds
with the strobe light flashing every 2.5 seconds.
The GNSS self test can be cancelled at any time by activating the Grey test
switch and holding it on for 5 seconds.
The EPIRB is limited to 5 GNSS self tests, the unit will not perform any more
than this until the battery is replaced.
20
If the GNSS self test is initiated and the EPIRB has already performed 5
GNSS self tests, the indicator will flash Red for 5 seconds and then power
down. If the Grey test key is held on after the indicator has finished flashing
Red, it will then begin to rapidly flash between Red and Green to indicate that
the EPIRB power is being held on and is needlessly draining the battery
reserves.
No of GNSS Tests Remaining No of Green LED Flashes
Number of Strobe Flashes
4 4 (and then repeated) 2
3 3 (and then repeated) 2
2 2 (and then repeated) 2
1 1 (and then repeated) 2
0 Flashes for 5 seconds 2
Note: This test mode is only available on the SafeSea E100G
6.3: Inspection
During the monthly EPIRB self test it is advised that the following inspection is
performed.
1) Inspect the EPIRB for obvious signs of damage – including the
state of the antenna any creases in the antenna may cause the
operation of the EPIRB to be impaired.
2) Confirm that the EPIRB is securely mounted on the bracket or in the
float free housing.
3) Inspect the lanyard to ensure it is not attached to any structures.
4) Confirm the battery is within the specified expiry date.
5) If the EPIRB is housed in a float free housing confirm the HRU is
within the specified expiry date.
6) Clean the EPIRB and mounting, it is recommended that the EPIRB
is cleaned only using a damp cloth.
Note: Other than the battery pack there are no user serviceable parts inside
the EPIRB. DO NOT OPEN THE EPIRB, DOING SO WILL INVALIDATE THE
WARRANTY AND MAY CAUSE FALSE ALERTS.
21
6.4: Battery Installation / Replacement
The EPIRB is supplied with a non-hazardous 9V Lithium battery pack. It is
recommended that this pack be replaced every 5 years; assuming that the
EPIRB has not been used for any emergency use.
The expiry date for the battery will be marked on the battery itself. If this date
has been reached then the battery must be replaced to ensure correct
operating life of the EPIRB during an emergency situation.
It is recommended that, if the EPIRB is operated for any purposes OTHER
than the self tests, the battery is replaced. This is to ensure of correct
operating life of the EPIRB during an emergency situation.
For SOLAS vessels it is recommended that the battery is replaced at the time
of the Shore Based Maintenance. Batteries should only be replaced by
trained personnel with access to the required test equipment to ensure correct
operation after the battery exchange.
For non-SOLAS vessels, including recreational vessels, the user may replace
the battery, or use an approved service agent, following the instructions
provided with each new battery.
The replacement of the battery may only be performed by the end user
where it is allowed by the local or national maritime authorities.
Note: Detailed battery replacement instructions are provided with each new
battery.
Dispose of exhausted batteries by returning them to your service agent.
Lithium batteries require specialist methods for disposal.
DO NOT INCINERATE!
DO NOT DISPOSE OF AT SEA!
6.5: HRU Installation / Replacement
If you have an EPIRB mounted in a float free housing, this will also contain a
HRU (Hydrostatic Release Unit). The HRU unit must be replaced every 2
years, the expiry date is marked on the HRU and the front of the housing. If
this date has been reached then the HRU must be replaced; failure to do so
may result in the HRU not operating correctly during an emergency situation.
1) Lift the release mechanism and remove the EPIRB.
22
2) Push the HRU down, against the spring and remove the locking pin,
carefully remove the HRU from the spring.
3) With the new HRU locate the two retaining ridges (at the bottom of
the HRU) on to the spring.
4) Carefully push down on the HRU, against the spring. Have the
locking pin ready, with the retaining flange (the flat surface) pointing
down.
5) Push the locking pin fully home, the HRU is now ready to load the
EPIRB into the housing.
6.6: Service & Warranty
All servicing or repairs of this EPIRB must be carried out by an approved
service agent.
For warranty details please refer to the warranty card supplied with this unit.
Please retain the original packaging for your EPIRB. If the EPIRB has to be
returned, for any reason, the original packaging should be used.
23
The battery packs used with this EPIRB are classed as non-hazardous under
IATA Hazardous Transport Regulation.
• Batteries should be shipped as category 3090, packing instruction 968:
part 1.
• EPIRBs with batteries should be shipped as category 3091, packing
instruction 969: part 1. (The battery should be removed from the
EPIRB before packing, but can be in the same box.)
24
7: Technical Information
7.1: System Overview
The COSPAS/SARSAT system utilises two satellite arrays to provide distress
alert and location data to search and rescue authorities.
GEOSAR – Geostationary Earth Orbit
LEOSAR – Low-altitude Earth Orbit
The GEOSAR system can provide near immediate alerting within the
coverage of the receiving satellite.
The LEOSAR system provides coverage of the polar region – beyond the
range of the GEOSAR system. It can calculate the location of distress events
using Doppler processing techniques and is less susceptible to obstructions
which could block a signal in a given direction.
The system is comprised of instruments on board the satellites which detect
the signals from the distress beacons. Ground receiving stations, referred to
as Local Users Terminals (LUTs) receive and process the satellite downlink
signal to generate the distress alerts. The distress alerts, generated by the
LUTs, are then received by Mission Control Centres (MCCs) which then
forward the alert to Rescue Co-ordination Centres (RCCs), Search and
Rescue Points of Contacts (SPOCs) and other MCCs.
7.2: GPS System
The GPS system is a satellite array that enables a GNSS receiver to
determine its position around the globe. There are a minimum of 24 satellites
orbiting the Earth providing accurate position, velocity and time information.
The SafeSea E100G has a built in 50 channel GNSS receiver and antenna
allowing reception of this positional data. The received position is then coded
into the EPIRB emergency transmission thus enabling search and rescue
teams to narrow the search area and increase the effectiveness of the rescue
operation.
25
7.3: Technical Specification
406 MHz Transmitter
121.5 MHz Transmitter
Frequency 406.037 MHz ±1KHz Frequency 121.5 MHz
Output Power 5W Typical Output Power 25-100mW PEP
Modulation Phase ±1.1 Radians Pk
(16K0G1D)
Modulation Swept Tone AM
(3K20A3X)
Encoding Biphase L Sweep Range
/ Rate
400 to 1300 Hz
Duration 520mS Modulation
Depth
96%
Frequency
Stability
2 parts per billion /
100mS
Frequency
Stability
±50ppm
Rate 400 bps Duty Cycle 40%
Low Duty Cycle Strobe Battery
Light Type Two High Intensity
LEDs
Type Lithium Manganese
Dioxide (LiMnO2)
Light Colour White Operating 72 hours Minimum
Output Power 0.75 dc effective
candela
Replacement
Interval
5 years
Flash Rate 20-30 per minute
GPS Receiver* General
Satellites Tracked 50 Channel Engine Height of Body 212mm
Sensitivity Cold Start
Re-acquisition
-146dBm
-162dBm
Maximum
Body diameter
115mm
Centre Frequency 1.57524 GHz Weight 735grams
GPS Antenna Microstrip Patch
Environmental Approvals
IEC60945 Category Portable Cospas-Sarsat T.001/T.007
Operating
Temperature
Class 2 -20C to
+55C
Europe Marine Equipment
Directive MED A.1/5.6
IEC 61097-2
IEC 60945
Storage Temperature Class 2 -30C to
+70C
USA USCG/FCC Approved
FCC ID: TBD
Automatic release
depth
4 metres maximum Worldwide IEC 61097-2
Waterproof Exceeds 10m at
20°C
IMO
Regulations
A.662(16); A.694(17);
A.810(19); A.814(19)
* SafeSea E100G only