User Manual
Fastfind
& Fastfi
nd PLus
Personal Location Beacon
User manual
mcmurdo
mcmurdomcmurdo
mcmurdo
ii
i
Your PLBs
unique
identification
information
Notices to Purchasers
Personal Location Beacons (PLB) must be registered with the appropriate
National Authority. Failure to register your PLB could delay a Search and
Rescue (SAR) response and maybe un lawful.
WARNING
A PLB should only be activated in situations of grave and imminent
danger to life. Misuse or false activation is unlawful and could result in
a penalty
Important
PLBs are intended for use within the maritime, aviation and land
environments where permitted by national administrations. When activated,
the PLB sends an emergency alert to the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system.
The time taken for the alert to be processed is dependant upon the extent of
satellite system coverage at that time and any overhead obstruction that
could impair the signal path to the satellite. The actual time to rescue in an
emergency will be dependant upon the performance of all factors within the
SAR (Search and Rescue) system, and as such, is outside the control of
McMurdo.
Applicability of this manual
Fastfind and Fastfind Plus build standard: February 2008
This manual is applicable to both the Fastfind & Fastfind Plus models. The
Fastfind Plus has an inbuilt GPS receiver, consequently any references to
GPS and the GPS system will only apply to the Fastfind Plus model.
Stick copy
Programming
label here
ii
Contents
Safety notices ....................................................................................... 1
Quick start checklist .............................................................................. 2
Emergency operation ............................................................................................ 2
Introduction .......................................................................................... 3
Preparing the PLB for use...................................................................... 3
Handling false alerts.............................................................................. 4
Emergency Operation ........................................................................... 5
Switching off an active PLB .................................................................................. 6
Emergency Operation with GPS (Fastfind Plus) ................................................... 7
Self-test................................................................................................ 8
Getting the best from the PLB................................................................ 9
General use .......................................................................................................... 9
Get the best from GPS PLBs ................................................................................ 9
Satellite Distress Beacons explained .................................................... 13
Why GPS PLBs?................................................................................................. 13
How does your PLB work?................................................................... 14
Registration and Licensing................................................................... 15
Radio transmitter Licence requirements ............................................................. 16
Service and Maintenance .................................................................... 17
Deactivation........................................................................................ 18
Battery Pack....................................................................................... 18
How to assemble your PLB.................................................................. 19
Fitting the battery ................................................................................................ 19
Technical Specifications ...................................................................... 20
Usage statement ................................................................................................. 22
Declaration of Conformity .................................................................... 23
Product Warranty ................................................................................ 25
End of Life Statement .......................................................................... 26
Battery Removal ................................................................................................. 26
Disposal .............................................................................................................. 26
Annex 1. Registration information......................................................... 27
Annex 2. Quick user card detail............................................................ 30
1
Safety notices
Please take time to read this manual fully as it contains important information
regarding the correct use and maintenance of your PLB.
Important
The PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) is an emergency radio beacon; only ever
operate it in situations of grave and imminent danger to life.
CAUTION: False alerts endanger lives and cause expensive disruption to Search
and Rescue services, deliberate misuse of the PLB could result in penalty.
CAUTION: The PLB and battery pack contain no user-serviceable parts. Do not
dismantle the PLB or the battery pack.
CAUTION: The battery pack contains lithium batteries. Do not attempt to
recharge the battery under any circumstances. Do not incinerate, puncture, deform, or
short-circuit. Dispose of spent battery packs safely and in accordance with local waste
disposal regulations. Refer to End of Life Statement.
CAUTION: Avoid using chemical solvents to clean the PLB as some solvents can
damage the case material.
CAUTION: Radio licensing, the PLB is a radio transmitter. Some administrations
may require that the user holds a valid radio licence to cover its ownership and use.
Radio Frequency Exposure Warning
WARNING: The PLB is a radio transmitter which emits radio frequency radiation
when activated. Because of the low power levels used and the intermittency of these
transmissions PLBs should not expose users to RF energy in excess of safe limits.
However it is advisable not to handle the antenna while the unit is transmitting.
Disclaimer
McMurdo is a brand name operated by Signature Industries Limited.
The information and illustrations contained in this publication are to the best of our
knowledge correct at the time of going to print. We reserve the right to change
specifications, equipment, installation and maintenance instructions without notice as
part of our policy of continuous product development and improvement. No part of this
publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form,
electronic or otherwise without permission in writing from McMurdo, Signature
Industries Limited. No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions in
the publication, although every care has been taken to make it as complete and
accurate as possible.
2
Quick start checklist
Emergency operation
1. Open the flip cover
2. Tear off the red plastic tab
3. Press and hold the red button for 2 seconds
Do
• Register the PLB with the National Authority
• Learn how to activate and position the PLB in an emergency
• Check that the battery is in date
• Self-test the PLB once a month
Don’t
• Activate the PLB unless there is a genuine emergency
• Allow the GPS ZONE to become covered (clearly marked on
the front of the PLB case)
• Handle the antenna
3
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing your McMurdo Fastfind or Fastfind Plus Personal Location
Beacon (PLB). The Fastfind range are the very latest state of the art McMurdo PLBs
manufactured by Signature Industries Limited . When carrying a Fastfind, you will
enjoy the reassurance of having a PLB as a last resort safeguard against any life
threatening incidents that may occur anywhere in the world. Whether alone or in a
group, on holiday or at work, enjoying your sport or hobby, if you ever find yourself in
a remote area without any other form of emergency communication, on land, at sea or
in the air the Fastfind comes into its own.
Once activated, the Fastfind transmits a unique identification signal via the COSPAS
SARSAT satellite system. Provided the PLB has a clear view of the sky its location
can be determined anywhere on the earth’s surface. Details of the PLB alert will
quickly be passed to regional SAR (search and rescue) authorities. Keeping your PLB
Registration details up to date is critical to ensure a quick and appropriate SAR
response is sent to your rescue.
The Fastfind Plus has an inbuilt Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation receiver.
Once activated in an emergency, GPS positional information is automatically
transmitted as part of the distress message. The inclusion of GPS based positional
information can greatly reduce the time it takes for the SAR authorities to arrive on
scene.
Should your have any questions, or require advice regarding McMurdo products our
website ‘frequently asked questions’ is a good place to start. From the web site you
can also leave a message for our customer service team, visit; www.mcmurdo.co.uk
Preparing the PLB for use
Carefully unpack the carton and check the contents.
Carton contents list;
PLB with attached battery and Lanyard
Belt bag
User manual
User card
Registration paper work
Confirm that the battery expiry date shown on the rear of the battery pack is in date
for the duration of intended use.
Check that the outside of the PLB is undamaged and that the flip top lid cover is
present. Lift the flip top lid and confirm that the anti-tamper seal is intact
Self-test the PLB following the instructions detailed in the self test section.
A self-test pass indication verifies that the PLB is ready for use.
Always carry the PLB securely, so it is close at hand in the event of an emergency.
Securely attach the PLB lanyard clip to clothing or life vest.
4
Handling false alerts
If the PLB has been accidentally activated, or if rescue has been effected before
arrival of the rescue services:
• Only switch off the PLB when instructed to do so by the rescue services or
authorities.
• Attempt to contact the rescue services, coastguard, or police by radio or
telephone to advise them of the false alert.
PLB antenna deployed
5
Emergency Operation
Activation
button
Self
-
test/OFF
button
PLB
c
ontrol
s
(Fastfind)
Green light
Red light
Flip-top lid
Anti
-
tamper
cover seal
GPS
Z
ONE
do not
cover
(Fastfind Plus)
6
Emergency Operation
Important: ONLY pull the red anti-tamper seal in an emergency.
1. Raise the flip-up lid to expose the red anti-tamper cover. Once opened, the
flip-up lid can be pulled off the PLB and discarded if necessary.
2. Grasp the handle part of the red anti-tamper cover, and pull sharply away
from the PLB body. This uncovers the START/ON button. The antenna will
spring into an upright position as soon as the anti-tamper cover is removed.
CAUTION: Spring action antenna deployment; tilt the PLB away from
your face when pulling the anti-tamper seal to deploy the antenna.
3. Press and hold the ON button for at least 2 seconds.
The RED ON indicator light will turn on
An audible alarm buzzer will start to sound
4. After 2 minutes has elapsed, the RED ON indicator light will start to
slowly flash indicating that the PLB has started transmitting
emergency alerts.
The PLB will continue to transmit alerts for a minimum of 48 hours. 406 MHz
transmissions are announced by a long flash of the GREEN indicator light once every
50 seconds and the sounding of the audible alarm buzzer.
Lift flip cover and Pull anti-tamper cover to deploy the antenna, push and hold
ON button to activate the PLB.
Important: After the PLB is switched ON the first emergency transmission is delayed
for 2 minutes. This delay allows time to switch the PLB off in the event of accidental
activation before a false alert is transmitted.
Switching off an active PLB
Press and hold the OFF button for a minimum of 5 seconds until the indicator lights go
off and the alarm buzzer stops sounding.
7
Emergency Operation with GPS (Fastfind Plus)
When the PLB is first activated the inbuilt GPS receiver will attempt to acquire a valid
geographical position fix.
Once a GPS position fix is acquired the GREEN indicator light will start to
flash once every 3.5 seconds in sequence with the red indicator light.
GREEN and RED indicator lights ‘long flash’ in sequence once every
50 seconds to indicate each 406 MHz transmission containing a valid
GPS position.
After 4 hours without a valid GPS position fix the GREEN light will go
out completely.
Self
-
test/OFF
button
GPS
PLB
c
ontrol
s
(Fastfind
Plus)
Activation
button
Green l
ight
flashes when
GPS position
is good
Red light
- 50 seconds -
-
3.5 seconds
-
-
- 3.5 seconds -
- 50 seconds -
- 50 seconds -
GPS position acquired
Transmission with valid GPS position
GPS position lost
8
Self-test
International regulations require that Self-testing of the PLB should only be carried out
in the first five minutes of any hour.
Self-test verifies operation of the PLB by checking key features including battery
voltage and 406 MHz and 121.5 MHz alert transmitters.
Important
Each self-test draws small amounts of energy from the battery pack. Unnecessary
testing of the PLB may subsequently reduce the run time of the PLB in an emergency.
On average, the PLB should only be self tested 12 times per year, or a total of 60
times across the 5 year battery lifetime.
To operate self-test, use the Test/OFF button, located under the flexible handle of the
red anti-tamper cover.
• Open the flip-top lid. Do NOT pull off the red anti-tamper cover.
• Slide a finger under the flexible handle of the anti-tamper cover to locate the
Test/OFF button.
• Hold down the Test/OFF button for 10 seconds.
• (red ON indicator light will illuminate)
• Self-test pass is indicated by 3 flashes of the green indicator light and
the alarm buzzer will sound.
• A failed self-test is indicated by 3 flashes of the red ON indicator light
• The PLB will switch off once the self-test has finished
Self-test
• Release the button and close the flip-top lid.
9
Important: While self-testing keep your fingers away from the top of the PLB as the
close proximity of any objects can affect the results of the self-test.
If the self-test still fails, repeat it and if the problem persists remove the PLB from use
and contact your service dealer for advice.
Getting the best from the PLB
General use
Once activated, position the PLB so that the antenna is pointing straight up towards
the sky so that it has the best all-around view of the sky. The position of the COSPAS-
SARSAT satellites can affect when an alert signal is received. Careful positioning so
that the maximum amount of sky is in view will produce the optimum performance.
Get the best from GPS PLBs
Position the PLB so that the antenna is pointing skyward and the GPS zone is
clear of any obstructions.
Do not obstruct the area marked GPS Zone on top of the PLB
The PLB should be positioned to have the clearest possible view of the sky,
obstructions such as tree cover, deep canyons, ravines, caves, overhangs and
shadowing objects can block out the view of GPS satellites and may inhibit GPS
signals from reaching the PLB.
NO
YES
10
Even if the GPS PLB initially fails to acquire a valid GPS position, the first alert
message will still be transmitted within 2 minutes of activation. The PLBs position will
be determined as if it was a standard PLB without GPS.
Using the PLB afloat
The PLB is totally waterproof but is not designed to operate when floating on the
surface of the water. It is buoyant and will not sink if dropped into water, if possible
keep it out of the water when in use, place it high up on your PFD, lifejacket. or chest
and clear of any wave wash. Any trapped water should be removed periodically by
shaking the PLB.
Aboard a liferaft
The principle is to give the PLB as clear a view of the sky as possible whilst keeping it
flat. If the raft is full, it may be necessary to elevate the PLB or hold it outside the
liferaft canopy. Attach the lanyard to your clothing so in the event of separation from
the life raft the PLB will stay with you.
Aboard ship
Operate the PLB on deck; position it to have the clearest possible view of the sky. Lay
it flat on the deck with the antenna pointing up towards the sky .
Aviation
The PLB is not designed for activation aboard an aircraft although they are often used
as an additional carry off safety device. Take care not to place the PLB in the shadow
of the aircraft. Lay it on a flat surface with the antenna pointing up towards the sky
and with the maximum amount of sky possible in view.
Vehicles
Because of the shielding effect, the PLB probably will not operate effectively when
inside a vehicle. It is best placed outside on the roof, hood or trunk.
11
Try to
move
the PLB into a
clearing and
out of thick
tree cover
On the move
If on the move, take care to keep the PLB flat with the antenna pointing skyward.
Using the PLB on land
The PLB should be placed to have the clearest possible view of the sky. Make sure
the PLB does not become covered by drifting material (eg snow, sand). Keep it flat
with the antenna pointing upwards. Do not stand over the PLB.
OK
NO
12
It is ESSENTIAL that you register your PLB
Registration helps reduce the number of false alarms and hoax calls, and so makes
the rescue service more efficient. It is important to update your registration details if
your address or 24 hour contact details ever change.
On receipt of a PLB alert, the SAR organization will firstly try to check that the
registered owner of the PLB has not accidentally activated the beacon. To do this,
they will try to confirm the approximate location by calling the 24 hour contact number
filed at the time the PLB was registered. You should always ensure that your 24 hour
contact details are up to date and that they know where you are likely to be located.
For the same reason, if you ever lend your PLB to anybody you should always know
were they are going.
Carrying your PLB
The standard belt bag provides a convenient way to carrying the PLB hands-free. Fit
the bag to your belt. Invert the PLB and place in the bag with the lanyard uppermost.
To prevent loss of the PLB, attach the free end of the lanyard (clip) securely to your
clothing or belt. Divers can purchase the optional PLB dive canister, turned from solid
marine grade aluminium and pressure tested to 150m (500ft).
PLB Belt Bag
PLB dive canister
option, the ultimate
protection for your PLB
tested to a depth of 150m
13
Satellite Distress Beacons explained
Satellite Distress Beacons such as Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) are used to
alert search and rescue services in the event of an emergency. They do this by
transmitting a coded message on the international 406 MHz distress frequency which
is relayed via satellites and earth stations to the nearest rescue co-ordination centre.
* System graphics courtesy of COSPAS SARSAT.
Cospas Sarsat explained
The Cospas-Sarsat satellite system has global coverage that provides a typical time
to alert notification of between approximately 3 and 45 minutes. The geographical
location of a GPS PLB (with inbuilt GPS receiver) can normally be resolved within 5
minutes and 45 minutes for a non-GPS PLB. The time to alert is dependant on which
satellites are in view in the sky at the time of PLB activation. Non-GPS PLBs rely on
passing orbiting satellites to determine an approximate position, this can take longer
and the resolved position is less accurate than can be achieved compared to a GPS
PLB.
Why GPS PLBs?
GPS PLBs have been designed to enhance further the lifesaving capabilities of
conventional distress beacons. When a GPS PLB is activated in an emergency, GPS
positional information is automatically transmitted as part of the distress message.
The Global Positioning System (GPS) has an array of orbiting satellites and provides
the PLB with positional information and with new positional updates occurring every
14
20 minutes. The inclusion of GPS based positional information can greatly reduce the
time it takes for the SAR authorities to arrive on scene. When speed of response and
accuracy of location are important considerations, then GPS PLBs offer the best in
performance.
The location of a GPS PLB can be determine to a typical positional accuracy of about
+/- 62 metres (0.03 miles) within a few minutes of PLB activation and a non-GPS PLB
within about +/- 5km (3 miles) and typically within 45 minutes.
PLBs also have a secondary homing transmitter. This transmits on the 121.5 MHz
internationally recognised aviation guard channel. When the rescue services get close
they can "home in" on this signal using direction finding techniques.
More than 22,000 lives have been saved by distress signals routed via the COSPAS-
SARSAT* system since it was installed in 1996.
* For an full explanation, visit the Cospas-Sarsat web site:
http://www.cospas-sarsat.org
How does your PLB work?
The PLB has two radio transmitters which start transmitting when you activate the
PLB. One transmitter operates at 406 MHz which transmits alerts via satellites. The
other operates at 121.5 MHz which transmits a signal which can be received by over-
flying aircraft and Search and Rescue homing receivers.
Ground stations track the satellites and process the distress signals to obtain a
location of the distress. The processed information is then forwarded to a Mission
Control Centre where it is combined with PLB registration information and passed to a
Rescue Coordination Centre which alerts the appropriate Search and Rescue
authorities. Successive satellite passes refine and confirm the original information.
PLBs with inbuilt GPS receivers determine their own geographical position and
transmit it as part of the distress alert signal. Locations where the sky area is
obscured significantly, such as under a tree canopy or in a steep-sided canyon, may
result in delays in GPS position fixing. In extreme circumstance, the PLB may fail
15
Typical decal
being fitted
completely to get a valid GPS position. If this happens, the GPS PLB “fails safe” and
does not transmit an inaccurate position but instead sends information to indicate that
no position is available. Location of the PLB without GPS position information is
dependent on the orbiting satellite system just like with a non-GPS PLB.
PLBs have a secondary 121.5 MHz homing transmitter. This transmits on the 121.5
MHz internationally recognised aviation guard channel. If an aircraft hears an
activated beacon, it will often make a report to the aviation authority which will pass
this information to the Rescue Coordination Centre. When the rescue services get
close they can "home in" on the 121.5 MHz signal using direction finding techniques.
Registration and Licensing
Each PLB has a unique digital identity; this is the 15 digit hexadecimal number printed
on the programming information label located on the back of the PLB (visible only
when the battery pack is removed). It is also pre-printed on the registration form
included with each new PLB and a copy of the programming information label is
usually placed on the first page of this product user manual.
The PLB must be registered with a relevant national authority. A part completed
registration form is normally packed in with the PLB, were required this should be
completed and sent to the relevant national administration at the address detailed on
the registration form. If your form does not have a registration address, contact your
supplier for further advice.
Annex 1. Contains further important information regarding registration of the PLB.
Registration decal
It is usual to receive confirmation after you have correctly registered the PLB. Some
administrations (USA, UK) will send you a registration decal (sticker) which must be
attached to the PLB, as shown below.
Registration decal
16
WARNING: Do not attempt to fit the decal in any other position, as this could interfere
with the battery seal or with the operation of the PLB.
Radio transmitter Licence requirements
The PLB is a radio transmitter, some administration require that the user holds a valid
radio licence to cover its ownership and use. Radio Licensing regulations vary from
nation to nation. Your supplier should be able to offer advice regarding any local
licensing requirements in your country of residence, or you should contact your
national communications licensing authority directly.
Note for US PLB owners, A Radio Licence is not required to own or operate a PLB
within the confines of the USA.
17
Service and Maintenance
Before use
Check the PLB monthly, check the battery expiry date has not expired, run self-test
and examine for any signs of damage to the outer case.
After use (not activated)
Clean the outer case with fresh water, wipe dry and examine for any damage. Store in
a cool dry place until next needed, self-test the PLB monthly.
CAUTION: Avoid using chemical solvents to clean the PLB as some solvents can
damage the case material.
After activation
The antenna must be re-wound (see below)
WARNING: The battery will be partly or fully run down and must be replaced.
Inadvertent antenna deployment
If the red anti-tamper seal is defeated, then the antenna will automatically deploy. Re-
winding of the antenna and fitting of a new anti-tamper seal can only be done by a
McMurdo authorised service station. For safe transportation, wrap the antenna around
the body of the PLB and fix in place with adhesive tape. Do not close or fold the flip-
up lid over the top of the deployed antenna as this may damage the antenna.
NOTE: Antenna re-winding will incur a service charge.
CAUTION: never attempt to re coil the antenna
Service
Battery packs, flip cover and lanyard are user
replaceable. The main body of the PLB has no
user-serviceable parts. A list of McMurdo
dealers and Service Agents is located on the
McMurdo web site, www.mcmurdo.co.uk.
Spare Parts
Battery pack, Class 2, -20 °C 85-763-020
Replacement belt bag 85-736-004
Fastfind replacement flip cover 85-877-001
Fastfind Plus replacement flip cover 85-877-002
Replacement lanyard 85-769
Method of taping antenna
18
Deactivation
The PLB may be completely deactivated by removing the battery pack.
Important: When the battery pack is removed the PLB is no longer fully
environmentally sealed and should not be subjected to water.
Battery Pack
The battery pack is easily user replaceable.
Battery packs provide a minimum of 48 hours continuous operation at a minimum
temperature of -20 °C (-4 °F). and maximum of +55 °C (+131 °F). The battery may
safely be stored in temperatures up to +70 °C (+158 °F).
CAUTION: this product should only ever be fitted with a -20 °C Class 2 Battery
Pack McMurdo Part No. 85-763-020.
CAUTION: Never attempt to recharge the battery Pack
Once the battery expiry date has been reached it
must be replaced. only fit an original McMurdo
branded -20 °C Class 2 Battery Pack
Part No. 85-763-020
19
How to assemble your PLB
Fitting the battery
Take care when fitting the battery. It forms part of the sealing system of the PLB, so it
is important to follow the instructions exactly. Each replacement battery pack has new
‘O’ rings which should be replaced when the battery is changed.
1. Fit the two ‘O’ rings to the battery connectors, as shown below.
2. Clip the battery pack into the PLB, then push the battery pack into place. Take
care that the ‘O’ rings stay in place.
3. Fit the battery screw block (lanyard securing tag). It is essential that the screw
block is fitted, as it forms part of the PLB sealing system.
4. Fit the screw to retain the battery pack and tighten until resistance is felt, then
turn the screw one 360° additional turn (torque setting 25 cNm).
5. Perform a self-test, (see page 11). If the PLB does not pass the self-test, repeat it
once. If the PLB still does not pass the self-test, contact McMurdo or your dealer
for further advice.
Battery screw block must be fitted
even if the lanyard is not required.
(lanyard removed for clarity)
Battery retaining screw
‘O’ rings
fi
tted to
battery connectors
20
Technical Specifications
Part Number: 85-880-002A Fastfind PLB retail pack
Part Number: 85-890-002A Fatfind Plus GPS PLB retail pack
21
Fastfind and Fastfind Plus Specification
General
Approved to COSPAS-SARSAT T.007 Class 2, TAC-184
Internationally type approved, a list of current type approvals is held in
the Fastfind section of the McMurdo web site; www.mcmurdo.co.uk
Complies with relevant clauses EN 60945
RTCM 76-2002/SC110-STD V1.1
Operating temperature range -20 °C to +55 °C
Storage temperature range -30 °C to +70 °C
Operational life, Class 2 48 hours minimum at –20 °C
Battery type, Class 2 11 V lithium iron disulphide
Battery expiry 6 years from date of manufacture
Typical in service battery life 5 years
Electrical
406.037 MHz transmitter
Frequency 406.037 MHz +1 kHz
Output power 5 W+2 dB
Data encoding Bi-phase L
Modulation Phase modulation; 1.1 rads +0.1 rads
Transmission time 520 ms +1% GPS, 440 ms +1% non-GPS
Repetition period 50 secs +2.5 secs
121.5 MHz transmitter
Frequency 121.5 MHz +3 kHz
Output power 50 mW +3 dB PERP
Transmit duty cycle 100%
Modulation format 3K20A3X
Modulation frequency sweep 1300 Hz to 350 Hz
Modulation duty cycle 41%+5%
Morse code modulation Letter ‘P’ (programming option)
Sweep repetition rate 3 Hz +1 Hz
Sweep direction Programmable UP or DOWN
GPS receiver/engine (Fastfind Plus only)
Centre frequency Band L1 1.57542 GHz
Received signal sensitivity -175 dBW minimum
Maximum number of satellites
tracked
12
Indication of GPS position Visual
22
Transmit antenna
Type Flexible vertical tape monopole
Characteristics Vertically polarised, omni-directional
Receive antenna (Fastfind Plus only)
Type Ceramic dielectric patch
Characteristics RH circular polarised, gain +3 dBi nominal
External interfaces
Programming interface Infra-red diode
Manual activation Sealed membrane switch with tamper cover
Self test/Manual deactivation Sealed membrane switch
Physical characteristics
Category 2, manual activation
Class 2
Weight 300 g
Length 146 mm
Width 78 mm
Buoyancy Buoyant
Sealing Waterproof to 5 m immersion
Temporary immersion 10 m
Lanyard 0.75m Sprung Kevlar with belt clip
Communications
Time to first transmission 2 minutes
Typical time to alert LEOSAR: 45 minutes
GEOSAR: 5 minutes
Position accuracy Fastfind : 5 Km radius
Fastfind Plus: 62 m radius
Usage statement
PLBs are intended for use within the maritime, aviation and land environments where
permitted by national administrations.
This PLB is not an ELT or an EPIRB and does not meet the regulatory requirements
for an ELT or an EPIRB.
This PLB is buoyant, but is not required to float in an upright position.
23
Declaration of Conformity
24
25
Product Warranty
McMurdo is a brand operated by Signature Industries Limited. Subject to the provisions set out
below McMurdo warrants that this product will be free of defects in materials and workmanship
for a period of 24 months from the date of purchase.
McMurdo will not be liable to the buyer under the above warranty:-
• for any defect arising from fair wear and tear, wilful damage, negligence, abnormal working
conditions, failure to follow McMurdo's instructions (whether oral or in writing) including a
failure to install properly and/or to use batteries recommended and/or supplied by
McMurdo, misuse or alterations or repair of the product by persons other than McMurdo or
an Approved Service Agent;
• for parts, materials or equipment not manufactured by McMurdo in respect of which the
buyer shall only be entitled to the benefit of any warranty or guarantee given by the
manufacturer to McMurdo;
• for the battery storage life which is specifically excluded from this warranty;
• if the total price for the product has not been paid.
THE LIMITED WARRANTY STATED ABOVE IS EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER
WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED
WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
McMurdo will not be liable for indirect, special, incidental or consequential damages of any kind
sustained from any cause. In no event shall McMurdo be liable for any breach of warranty or
other claim in an amount exceeding the purchase price of the PLB. This warranty does not affect
any statutory rights of the consumer.
In order to be valid, claims must be made under the above warranty in writing as soon as
practicable after discovery of the defect or failure and within the warranty period referred to
above. Proof of purchase will be required. The claim should be sent together with the product in
question to the address set out below or to an Approved Service Agent.
Following a valid warranty claim McMurdo shall be entitled to repair or replace the product (or
part) in question free of charge, or at McMurdo's sole discretion to refund to the buyer the price
of the product (or a proportional part of the price). McMurdo shall not be liable to a buyer who is
not a consumer for any other loss or damage (whether indirect, special or consequential loss of
profit or otherwise) costs, expenses or other claims for compensation which arise out of or in
connection with this product. In the case of a consumer McMurdo shall only be liable where other
loss or damage is foreseeable.
Nothing shall limit McMurdo's liability for death or personal injury caused by its negligence.
This warranty is to be interpreted under English law.
All enquiries relating to this warranty or Approved Service Agents should be sent to:
McMurdo a Division of Signature Industries Limited, Silver Point, Airport Service
Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO3 5PB UK
Telephone: Int + 44 (0) 23 9262 3900 Fax: Int + 44 (0) 23 9262 3998
Web: www.mcmurdo.co.uk Email: customerservice@mcmurdo.co.uk
26
End of Life Statement
At the end of the PLBs useful life, it is vital that the battery is removed from the main
body of the unit to prevent false alarms. False alarms cause expensive disruption to
Search and Rescue services and may endanger lives as a consequence. It is also
necessary that the PLB and its battery pack be disposed of in a manner that does not
present a threat of environmental damage.
Battery Removal
To remove the battery, turn the PLB over and undo the battery retaining screw using a
flat-blade screwdriver. Gently prise the battery from the main unit (the lanyard
securing lug can be used for leverage). Note that this will also release the ‘O’ ring
seals for the battery terminals, as well as the lanyard securing lug. Cover the
terminals of the battery pack with sticky tape to prevent inadvertent short-circuiting.
Disposal
The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive aims to minimise
any adverse impact of electronic equipment on the environment, both during the
product lifetime and when it becomes waste. Within the European Union this
legislation is mandated by Directive 2002/96/EC, and there is similar legislation in
most other continents. The directive applies to all electronic products such as IT,
household appliances, portable electronics etc., and imposes requirements to collect,
treat, recover and recycle each product at its end of life. Electronic end-user products
must also carry a WEEE label (as below) and recovery and recycling information has
to be provided to the recycler.
This PLB product contains traces of lithium in the battery pack. In addition it may
contain lead and brominated flame retardants (BFRs), both in the housing material
and circuit boards.
In keeping with the directive, McMurdo strongly recommends that this PLB product
and its battery pack be disposed of in a sensible and considerate manner. For
example, do not simply discard the product in the domestic waste. Instead take it to a
civil recycling facility, or contact McMurdo for advice.
27
Annex 1. Registration information
PLBs must be registered with a relevant national authority. Some administrations
allow for on line registration or require a completed registration application form to be
submitted by letter or FAX.
General information related to PLB registration requirements around the World is
published by the Cospas Sarsat organisation. Some administrations now allow direct
registration using the Cospas Sarsat website online IBIRD registration database.
Further information can be found on line here: www.cospas-sarsat.org
A registration form is normally packed with the PLB, if you are not registering the PLB
online the form should be completed and sent to the relevant national administration
at the address detailed on the form.
Additional registration information by country
Austria
Point of contact: Frequency Office Federal Ministry for Transport
Tel: +43 1 33181621
Fax: +43 1 33181649
Email: ernst.cerny@bmvit.gv.at
Online registration: n/a
Australia
Point of contact: Beacon Registration Section, AusSAR
Tel: +61 2 6279 5766 or 1800 406 406
Fax: +61 2 9332 6323 or 1800 406 329
Email: ausbeacon@amsa.gov.au
Online registration: n/a
Belgium
Point of contact: IBPT
Tel: +32 2 2268856
Fax: +32 2 2268802
Email: bmr@bipt.be
Online registration: n/a
Canada
Point of contact: Canadian PLB registry
Tel: 1-800-727-9414 or 1-613-996-1616
Fax: 1-613-996-3746
Email: beacons@nss.gc.ca
Online registration: http://beacons.nss.gc.ca
Finland
Point of contact: The Finnish Communications Regulatory Authority
Tel: +358 9 69661
Fax: +358 9 6966410
Email / www: www.ficora.fi
Online registration: n/a
France
Point of contact: FMCC
Tel: +33 5 61274636
28
Fax: +33 5 61274878
Email: fmcc@cnes.fr
Online registration: n/a
Greenland (Denmark)
Point of contact: Greenland Telecom Administration
Tel: +45 35430333
Fax: +45 35431434
Email: n/a
Online registration: n/a
India
Point of contact: INMCC/ISTRAC/ISRO
Tel: +91 80 28371857
Fax: +91 80 28371857
Email: inmcc@istrac.org
Online registration: n/a
Ireland
Point of contact: Maritime Radio Affairs Unit
Tel: +353 1 6782367
Fax: +353 1 6783109
Email: radiosurveyors@transport.ie
Online registration: n/a
Netherlands
Point of contact: Radio Communications Agency
Tel: +31 50 5877555
Fax: +31 50 5877400
Email: agentschaptelecom@at-ez.nl
www: www.agentschap-telecom.nl
Online registration: n/a
New Zealand
Point of contact: Rescue Co-ordination Centre New Zealand
Tel: +64 4 577 8033
Fax: +64 4 577 8041
Email: 406registry@maritimenz.govt.nz
Online registration: n/a
Norway
Point of contact: Post and Telecommunications Authority
Tel: +47 2 2824600
Fax: +47 2 2824890
Email: inger-lise.walter@npt.no
Online registration: n/a
Portugal
Point of contact: Navigation, Transport, Marine inspector
Tel: +351 21 3913529
Fax: +351 21 3979794
Email: n/a
Online registration: n/a
South Africa
Point of contact: SASAR, MRCC Cape Town
Tel: +27 21 9383310
29
Fax: +27 21 9383319
Email: mrcc.ct@samsa.org.za
Online registration: n/a
Sweden
Point of contact: MRCC Goteborg
Tel: +46 31 699080
Fax: +46 31 648010
Email: n/a
Online registration: n/a
Switzerland
Point of contact: Federal Office of Communications
Tel: +41 32 3275511
Fax: +41 32 3275555
Email: n/a
Online registration: n/a
UK
Point of contact: The EPIRB Registry, The Maritime and Coastguard Agency
Tel: 01326 211569
Fax: 01326 319264
Email: epirb@mcga.gov.uk
Online registration: www.mcga.gov.uk/c4mca/epirb
USA
Point of contact: United States 406 MHz beacon registration database system
Tel: 1-888-212-SAVE (7283)
Fax: (301) 568-8649
Online registration: www.beaconregistration.noaa.gov
New Zealand
Point of contact: Rescue Co-ordination Centre New Zealand
Tel: +64 4 577 8033
Fax: +64 4 577 8041
Email: 406registry@maritimenz.govt.nz
Online registration: n/a
Portugal
Point of contact: Navigation, Transport, Marine inspector
Tel: +351 21 3913529
Fax: +351 21 3979794
Email: n/a
Online registration: n/a
30
Annex 2. Quick user card detail
31
32
McMurdo
A Division of Signature Industries Ltd
Silver Point
Airport Service Road
Portsmouth PO3 5PB
United Kingdom
Phone: +44 (0)23 9262 3900
Fax: +44 (0)23 9262 3998
Email: customerservice@mcmurdo.co.uk
Website: www.mcmurdo.co.uk
85-902-800 Iss. 1