ACR Electronics GLOBALFIX 406 EPIRB User Manual

OWNER_____________________________________

VESSEL_____________________________________

RADIO CALL SIGN____________________________

Product Support Manual

GlobalFix™ 406
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon

Product No. 2742 Cat.1

Product No. 2744 Cat.2

RLB-35

Y1-03-0157

Rev. F

FCC Type Accepted

ACR Electronics, Inc.

5757 Ravenswood Road

Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33312

Tel : [phone]

Fax: [phone]

www.acrelectronics.com

Email: [e-mail]

* * * WARNING * * *

THIS TRANSMITTER IS AUTHORIZED FOR USE

ONLY DURING SITUATIONS OF GRAVE

AND IMMINENT DANGER

DELIBERATE MISUSE MAY

INCUR A SEVERE PENALTY

Magnet

Safe Distance

1m (3.3 ft)

Keep this beacon a
safe distance away

from all magnetic

sources

Stereo Speaker

Safe Distance

1m (3.3 ft)

Keep this beacon a
safe distance away

from all stereo

speakers

LIMITED WARRANTY
This product is warranted against factory defect in material and workmanship for a period of five

years from date of purchase or receipt as a gift. During the warranty period ACR Electronics, 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 [phone]. This warranty does not apply if the product has been damaged by
accident or misuse, or as a result of service or modification by other than the factory. Except as
otherwise expressly stated in the previous paragraph, the COMPANY MAKES NO
REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS TO
MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OR ANY OTHER MATTER WITH
RESPECT TO THIS PRODUCT. The Company shall not be liable for, consequential 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.

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Y1-03-0157 Rev. F

Foreword

Congratulations and thank you for purchasing the ACR GlobalFix™ Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon. The
combination of superior design, high quality raw materials and quality controlled manufacturing produce a product that
will perform for years to come. The test facility at ACR can reproduce some of the harshest environmental conditions
known to man. This assures that the products we manufacture can stand up to the rigors found in a marine
environment. With proper care and maintenance, your EPIRB will be in service for years to come.

ACR is proud to be certified to the ISO 9001: 2000, the International Standard for Quality.

This manual provides installation, operation and maintenance instructions for the GlobalFix™ EPIRB, hereinafter
referred to as the beacon. This manual also describes the characteristics and details of the beacon system. 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. EPIRB carriage requirements are
contained in USCG regulations.

Table of Contents

SECTION 1 - REGISTRATION OF 406 MHZ BEACONS................................................................................................ 1

1.1 Registration Importance.................................................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Where to Register............................................................................................................................................... 1

1.3 Registration in the United States...................................................................................................................... 1

1.4 Commercial Vessels in the United States........................................................................................................ 1

1.5 Commercial Vessels World Wide...................................................................................................................... 1

1.6 Registration Outside the United States............................................................................................................ 2

1.7 Change of Ownership or Contact Information ................................................................................................ 2

1.8 Lost or Stolen EPIRBs ....................................................................................................................................... 2

SECTION 2 - FALSE ALARMS........................................................................................................................................ 2

2.1 Prevention of False Alarms............................................................................................................................... 2

2.2 Reporting of False Alarms................................................................................................................................. 2

SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION.......................................................................................................................................... 3

3.1 Mounting Location ............................................................................................................................................. 3

3.2 Visual Inspection................................................................................................................................................ 3

3.3 Hydrostatic Release Dating Instruction (Product No. 2742) Cat. 1............................................................... 3

SECTION 4 – ACTIVATION AND DEPLOYMENT........................................................................................................... 4

4.1 Bracket Configuration........................................................................................................................................ 4

4.2 Configuration Overview..................................................................................................................................... 5

4.3 GPS Acquisition ................................................................................................................................................. 5

4.4 Automatic Deployment and Activation (Cat. 1)............................................................................................... 5

4.5 Manual Deployment and Activation.................................................................................................................. 6

4.6 Manual Activation without Deployment........................................................................................................... 6

4.7 Deactivation ........................................................................................................................................................ 6

4.8 Full Functional Self Test.................................................................................................................................... 6

4.9 Internal GPS Test................................................................................................................................................ 7

SECTION 5 - CARE AND MAINTENANCE...................................................................................................................... 8

5.1 Routine Maintenance ......................................................................................................................................... 8

5.2 Hydrostatic Release........................................................................................................................................... 8

5.3 Battery Replacement.......................................................................................................................................... 8

5.4 Shore Based Maintenance (SBM) for SOLAS Vessels , IMO Circ. 1040 ....................................................... 9

5.5 Annual Testing IMO Circ. 1039.......................................................................................................................... 9

SECTION 6 – THE SEARCH AND RESCUE SYSTEM ................................................................................................... 9

6.1 General Overview............................................................................................................................................... 9

6.2 Satellite Detection .............................................................................................................................................. 9

6.3 Global Positioning System (GPS)..................................................................................................................... 9

SECTION 7 - AUTHORIZATIONS.................................................................................................................................. 10

7.1 Characteristics.................................................................................................................................................. 10

7.2 Technical Data - GlobalFix™........................................................................................................................... 10

7.3 Specifications ................................................................................................................................................... 10

7.4 Accessories ...................................................................................................................................................... 11

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITIES............................................................................................................................ 12

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Y1-03-0157 Rev. F

SECTION 1 - REGISTRATION OF 406 MHZ BEACONS

1.1 Registration Importance

It is mandatory that the owner of this 406 MHz beacon registers it with the National Authority.* All 406 MHz
beacons transmit a Unique Identifier Number (UIN) when activated. This UIN is programmed in the beacon
based on the country in which the beacon was purchased. Registration provides the search and rescue forces
with up to date emergency contact information, which will speed up the launch of a rescue operation. The
National Authorities use the information to verify if an actual emergency exists. Valuable search and rescue
resources are wasted every year responding to false alarms. For beacons that are not registered, SAR forces
will not know who you are, what type of vessel you have, your homeport, or who to contact that might know of
your current situation. This will delay 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 that is responsible for EPIRB registration database
administration for the country for which the EPIRB is programmed.

1.2 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. Each
beacon is programmed with a Unique Identification Number (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 specified on
the UIN label are programmed for the United States.

1.3 Registration in the United States

It 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 United States is the National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The owner should complete the enclosed registration form (Do not
confuse this with the ACR Electronics warranty card) and mail with the pre-addressed; postage paid envelope
to:

SARSAT Beacon

Registration,

E/SP3, RM 3320, FB-4

NOAA/NESDIS

5200 Auth Rd.

Suitland, MD 20746-4304

The information provided on the registration form is used only for rescue purposes. The registration form
should be filled out and mailed immediately. Registration can be expedited by faxing the registration form to
Fax # [phone] or register online. Registrations should be completed online or faxed in the event the
beacon is to be placed in immediate service.

For Faster Service, Register Online!

www.beaconregistration.noaa.gov

All registration forms will be entered in the 406 MHz beacon registration database within 48 hours of receipt. A
confirmation letter, a copy of the actual registration and a proof-of-registration decal will be mailed to you
within two weeks. When you receive these documents, please check the information carefully and affix the
decal to your beacon in the area marked “BEACON DECAL HERE.” If you do not receive confirmation back
from NOAA, please call toll free 1-888-212-7283 for assistance.

1.4 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. Please use the enclosed FCC FORM 506 to modify
your radio station license. For information on whether you need a radio station license, call toll free
1-888-CALLFCC (225-5322).

1.5 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 flagged regardless of where the vessel operates. When a commercial vessel acquires a
406 MHz beacon from outside of its home country; the beacon should be reprogrammed for the home country
and registered there.

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Y1-03-0157 Rev. F

1.6 Registration Outside the United States

In countries other than the United States, 406 MHz beacons are registered with that country’s National
Authority at the time of purchase. The sales agent should assist in filling 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.

1.7 Change of Ownership or Contact Information

It is the owner’s responsibility to advise the National Authority of any change in the information 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 letter, fax or telephone, of the name and address of the
new owner. 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 subsequent owners. Registration
forms are available from NOAA. Call 1 [phone] or visit our website at www.acrelectronics.com

.

1.8 Lost or Stolen EPIRBs

Inform NOAA immediately at 1-888-212-SAVE (7283), or your National Authority, that 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 appropriate remarks:

- Police Department Name - Police Phone Number - Police Case Number

If you’re EPIRB were to activate, the information you provide 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 2 - FALSE ALARMS

2.1 Prevention of False Alarms

An ACR 406 MHz EPIRB can be activated by two different methods. Whether you have a Category 1 or 2;
these methods are the same.

1. When the beacon is out of its bracket and in the water, the unit is transmitting.

2. When the switch is moved to the on position, in or out of the bracket, the unit is transmitting.

There are a few precautions that should be taken to prevent false alarms.

• Do not mount or transport beacon within 1 meter (3.3ft) 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.

• Do not clean beacon with a water hose and brush.

2.2 Reporting of False Alarms

Should 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 includes the EPIRB Unique Identifier
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
Pacific Ocean Area /

USCG Area Command Center

USCG Atlantic Area Command Center Tel: [phone]

Tel: [phone]

USCG HQ Command Center

Tel [phone]

To Report False Alarms Worldwide Contact the National Authority where your beacon is registered

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Y1-03-0157 Rev. F

SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION

3.1 Mounting Location

The location selected must be sufficiently 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, personnel traffic, etc., and yet be readily accessible at all
times for the emergency use for which the beacon is intended.

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 location be selected for installation where the
beacon would be jeopardized by any foreign articles being temporarily or permanently positioned during “at
sea” or “in port” activities.

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 mount the beacon in the vicinity (3.3 ft/1 m) of strong magnetic (such as loud speakers) or electrical
(such as radar or high power radio transmitter) fields. The beacon should not be mounted closer than 3.3 ft. to
a navigation compass.

Consideration should be given to mounting the beacon in a vertical (antenna upward) position. In certain
circumstances, such as medical emergencies or disabled vessels, manual activation of the EPIRB for location
and homing purposes is sometimes requested. Mounting in this orientation provides the best homing signal.

The GlobalFix™ (Product No. 2742) Cat. 1 float-free mounting bracket should be mounted securely to a

vertical or horizontal surface (the mount has predrilled holes for attachment to a flat surface) where there are

no overhead obstructions. Location aboard a vessel must be chosen to allow the EPIRB to float 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 5.2 on removing the HRU.

The GlobalFix™ (Product No. 2742) Cat. 1 float-free mounting bracket should be securely attached to the
vessel. The use of #10 stainless steel hardware is recommended.

3.2 Visual Inspection

Visually inspect the area surrounding the mounting bracket installation site for hidden hazards, obstacles, etc.,
that may have been overlooked during 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 final approval of the installation.

3.3 Hydrostatic Release Dating Instruction (Product No. 2742) Cat. 1.

The label on the hydrostatic release mechanism inside of the bracket and the replacement date label on the
outside of the bracket MUST be scratched with the date of expiration at time of installation according to coastal
marine authority regulations.

To record the expiration date on the hydrostatic release mechanism, scratch the date on the label to indicate
the month and year two years from date of installation. Write the date of expiration with an indelible marker on
the outside cover.

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Y1-03-0157 Rev. F

SECTION 4 – ACTIVATION AND DEPLOYMENT

4.1 Bracket Configuration

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Y1-03-0157 Rev. F

4.2 Configuration Overview

The GlobalFix™ beacon (Product No. 2742) Cat. 1 is designed to be automatically deployed and activated.
The beacon may also be hand held on the deck of vessels, or floated in water and attached to a raft or life vest
with the lanyard provided. (Product No. 2744 Cat. 2 is designed to be manually deployed from its bracket.) The

beacon is designed to operate best while floating 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 GlobalFix™ beacon can be deployed and activated manually.

Changes in the laws governing beacons have mandated that the beacon be armed at all times. If certain
criteria are met, the beacon will begin transmitting.

The beacon is equipped with sensors to detect when it is no longer in its bracket (a deployment condition) and
other sensors to determine if it is in water.

Two conditions must be satisfied for the GlobalFix™ to automatically activate:

1) It must be out of its bracket

2) It must be in the water

Note: Either condition by itself will not automatically activate the beacon.

The GlobalFix™ is designed to allow the user to perform periodic testing while EPIRB is in the release bracket
to assure a functioning beacon.

Place the GlobalFix™ Cat. 1 (Product No. 2742) into the release bracket with the coiled lanyard inward. The
beacon should now be firmly held in the Cat. 1 bracket and ready for automatic deployment. Do not attach
lanyard to bracket.

Place the GlobalFix™ Cat. 2 (Product No. 2744) into the bracket with the spooled lanyard inward. The beacon

should now be firmly held in the Cat. 2 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 difficult to engage the buckle. This should be checked periodically.

4.3 GPS Acquisition

The GlobalFix™ is fitted with an internal Global Positioning System receiver that will determine the latitude and
longitude of its position on the globe to be transmitted to the emergency system. When the GlobalFix™ is
activated, the GPS is immediately turned ON and it immediately begins acquiring data. Initially the red LED
(Light Emitting Diode) flashes once per second to indicate the GlobalFix™ is turned ON and operating. As
soon as the GPS receiver acquires good positional data the red LED stops blinking and the green LED flashes
once per second to indicate that the internal GPS receiver has acquired good positional data. Once good
positional data has been obtained the GPS receiver waits for 20 minutes before looking for new positional data
again. If for any reason a time period of 4 hours passes without the GPS receiver being able to update the last
good set of positional data, the message transmitted by the GlobalFix™ will revert back to default data. At this
point the green LED will stop blinking and the red LED will flash once per second. If at any time after this, good
positional data is obtained, this data will be transmitted, the red LED will stop blinking and the green LED will
flash once per second.

4.4 Automatic Deployment and Activation (Cat. 1)

(Product No. 2742 only) Automatic deployment and activation occurs if the vessel sinks and the hydrostatic

release device frees the beacon from the bracket allowing it to float to the surface. Built-in sensors detect that
the beacon is no longer in its bracket and is in water. This condition will automatically activate the beacon.

NOTE: TRANSMISSIONS OF THE 121.5 MHZ AND 406 MHZ SIGNAL WILL NOT OCCUR UNTIL 100
SECONDS AFTER ACTIVATION.

Product number 2742 GlobalFix™ (Cat. 1) may be deployed and activated automatically by the built-in
hydrostatic float free release. Once free from the release bracket, the GlobalFix™ will automatically turn on if

the water sensors are wet.

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Y1-03-0157 Rev. F

4.5 Manual Deployment and Activation

The GlobalFix™ (Product No. 2742) Cat. 1 can be manually deployed by removing the retaining pin, removing
the cover, and then removing the beacon from the bracket. Once removed, both the Cat. 1 and Cat. 2
beacons can be activated by placing in water OR by lifting the thumb switch to a vertical position, sliding it
toward the antenna and pushing back down to the opposite side of the EPIRB. Activating the beacon in this
manner breaks off the "Activation Indicator Plastic Pin" and allows the switch to properly seat, showing the
" ▌ " symbol (ON).

OFF position.
Note the
Activation
Indicator
Plastic Pin

ON position.
Notice the
Activation
Indicator
Plastic Pin
has been
broken off.

Figure 3

Note: Some countries may fine vessel owners for causing false alarms. The permanent breakage of the

Activation Indicator Plastic Pin is a positive indication of a manual activation.

4.6 Manual Activation without Deployment

The GlobalFix™ 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.

4.7 Deactivation

If manually activated:

1) Returning the thumb switch to the “OFF” position.

If automatically activated:

1) Removing the beacon from the water. The beacon normally takes up to 12 seconds to deactivate, or

2) Placing 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.

4.8 Full Functional Self Test

Please read all instructions before performing any of the tests. Be prepared to record data from the test.

Self-test is initiated by momentarily lifting the thumb switch to a vertical position and holding it in this position
for at least two seconds and at most 4 seconds. A beep and the simultaneous lighting of the red LED indicate
the initiation of the test. The buzzer will beep an additional four times as the red LED lights simultaneously.
The green LED will then light, followed by a flash of the strobe, indicating a successful test. During self-test, an
actual satellite message is transmitted while certain key performance parameters are measured and recorded.
The self-test message is modified to prevent the satellite from forwarding an alert message during self-test.

(See Figure 4). The GlobalFix™ can be tested in or out of the release bracket.

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Y1-03-0157 Rev. F

Figure 4

If the thumb switch is accidentally or inadvertently put in the vertical or test position (not in the OFF or ON
position), the beacon would still be turned ON and will drain the battery. It is very unlikely that this would
happen, however, if this should occur, the beacon will sound a beep once per second and will alternately flash
the red and green LED’s at a rate of one per second until the beacon is turned OFF. It is important that the
beacon be turned OFF immediately by lowering the thumb switch to the OFF position, (thumb switch at rest in
the front position) if this alert is ever obtained.

TEST SUCCESS FAIL

Initial Test Start
Check Data Integrity
Check 406 MHz Synthesizer
Check RF Power/Battery
Check Internal GPS
Successful Test

Red LED
Beep,
Beep,
Beep,
Beep,

Red LED
Red LED
Red LED
Red LED

Green LED, Strobe

Test stopped
Test stopped
Test stopped
Test stopped

NOTE:
The homing beacon at 121.5 MHz is inhibited during self test.
It is strongly recommended to perform the full functional self test on
the GlobalFix™ on a monthly basis

Category 1 Self Test Plug

Remove the new Self Test Plug (See Figure 5) on the front cover and have instant access to perform self

tests. Be sure to reattach the plug to protect the beacon from the elements. Note: You may not be able to see

the LEDs but you will hear the beeps.

4.9 Internal GPS Test
Warning

: The following test should never be performed more than once during the five-year life of the battery

pack! Send the unit to ACR if test needs to be repeated. This test must be performed outside with a clear and
unobstructed view of the sky, preferably not in direct sunlight as it may be difficult to see the LEDs.

Performing the Internal GPS Test

If the thumb switch is held in the vertical position after the full functional self-test has finished, the buzzer will
beep and the red LED will light simultaneously. This beep and simultaneous red LED indicates that the GPS
has been turned ON and a live test of the internal GPS has begun. At this point the thumb switch should be
allowed to return to its normal OFF position. The GPS will remain ON until good positional data has been
obtained or 10 minutes has elapsed. If good positional data has been obtained, the GPS will be turned OFF
and the green LED will light for at least 3 seconds and the strobe will flash once. This positional data is not
saved for use when the beacon is turned ON. A green LED and strobe flash indication is proof that the GPS is

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Y1-03-0157 Rev. F

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 positional data, the GPS will turn OFF after 10
minutes and there will be no

successful green LED indication. This test should never be performed more than
once during the five-year life of the battery pack to prevent excessive current drain! The beacon must remain
under observation to witness the results of the test.

SECTION 5 - CARE AND MAINTENANCE

5.1 Routine Maintenance

At least every ninety days, the float free mounting bracket and GlobalFix beacon should be inspected for
deterioration and/or buildup that may affect the function of the beacon or automatic release. Part of the visual
check is checking the antenna for tightness.

Also carefully inspect the EPIRB 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, (1-800-432-0227 Ext. 169)

Clean the beacon and the mounting bracket to remove residue buildups. It is recommended that the mounting
bracket be wiped with a damp cloth.

5.2 Hydrostatic Release

The Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU) must be replaced two (2) years from date of installation or three (3) years
from date of manufacture. The HRU can be replaced by first removing the beacon from the bracket, then
sliding the hydrostatic release assembly out of the keyed opening on the spring and mounting bracket. Insert
the new hydrostatic release assembly in place by engaging it to the opening of the ejection spring and case,
sliding the HRU down into the keyed locking position and turn to the left. Place beacon into the mounting
bracket, and replace cover, securing in place with a hitch pin going through the hydrostatic release rod (see
SECTION 3.3 for dating procedures).

Figure 5

5.3 Battery Replacement

The battery (P/N 1098.1) must be replaced by the date indicated on the beacon or every five (5) years. At
each inspection, check the time remaining until replacement is required. Battery should be replaced if the
beacon has been activated for any use other than the self test.

Always refer all long life battery replacement and other beacon service to a factory authorized 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 BEACON UNLESS TO
DISABLE IN CASE OF FAULTY ACTIVATION.

ACR requires that you replace the entire hydrostatic
assembly when servicing the HRU, including
hydrostatic release, release rod and all hardware (P/N

9490). Failure to replace the entire assembly may
cause the bracket to malfunction. Always use original
ACR replacement parts. Use of unauthorized
replacement parts will void your warranty and may
cause the bracket to malfunction.

For the nearest location of a Battery Replacement Center, visit our website at www.acrelectronics.com

The GlobalFix™ 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.

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5.4 Shore Based Maintenance (SBM) for SOLAS Vessels , IMO Circ. 1040

The Maritime Safety Committee approved guidelines for shore-based maintenance of satellite EPIRBs, for the
purpose of establishing standardized procedures and minimum levels of service for the testing and
maintenance of satellite EPIRBs. MSC/Circ. 1039. First Shore Based Maintenance on all ACR EPIRBs is due
at the date of the first battery replacement. See our website at www. acrelectronics.com for more information.

5.5 Annual Testing IMO Circ. 1039

SOLAS 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 measurements. All checks of electrical
parameters should be performed in the self-test mode, if possible. See our website at www.
acrelectronics.com for more information

SECTION 6 – THE SEARCH AND RESCUE SYSTEM

6.1 General Overview

Beacons provide distress alerts via radio transmission on 406 MHz to the LEOSAR satellites of the COSPAS­SARSAT network. The GlobalFix™ can also transmit a distress alert to the GEOSAR network that includes
GPS latitude and longitude coordinates that are acquired by the internal GPS.

The message transmitted is unique for each beacon, which provides identification of the transmitter through
computer access of registration files maintained by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or

other national authority. Remember, if your beacon is not registered

, Search and Rescue (SAR) authorities

do not know who you are, or how to contact anyone who might know anything about your situation (Refer to

section 1).

Once the 406 MHz signal is relayed through the LEOSAR and/or GEOSAR network, SAR forces determine
who is closest, and then proceed to the beacon using the 121.5 MHz homing frequency.

6.2 Satellite Detection

EPIRBs transmit to the satellite portion of the COSPAS-SARSAT system. COSPAS-SARSAT is an
international system that uses Russian Federation and United States low altitude, near-polar orbiting satellites
(LEOSAR) that assist in detecting and locating activated 406 MHz satellite beacons.

COSPAS and SARSAT satellites receive distress signals from EPIRBs transmitting on the frequency of 406
MHz. The COSPAS-SARSAT 406 MHz beacon signal consists of a transmission of non-modulated carriers
followed by a digital message format that provides identification data. The 406 MHz system uses Satellite­borne equipment to measure and store the Doppler-shifted frequency along with the beacons 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 satellite, as well as being stored for later
transmission to other LUTs.

The LUT processes the Doppler-shifted signal from the LEOSAR and determines the location 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 distress alert to any of the LUT stations.
When there is GPS data included in the distress message, 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.

6.3 Global Positioning System (GPS)

The GPS system is a satellite group that enables a GPS receiver to determine its exact position 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 information on position, velocity, and time
anywhere in the world and in all weather conditions. The 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 increases the effectiveness of the overall operation.

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Figure 7- Satellite Coverage

SECTION 7 - AUTHORIZATIONS

The GlobalFix™ EPIRB meets the requirements of Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Part 80

(Product No. 2742 Cat. 1, 2744 Cat. 2); and GMDSS (Product No. 2742) and MED.

Figure 8- GEOSAR Satellite Orbits

Figure 9- GPS Satellite Orbits

7.1 Characteristics

The GlobalFix™ EPIRB is a buoyant, battery operated unit. The beacon case, with its external antenna, is
waterproof. The semiconductor circuits are mounted within the case assembly that also contains the battery
power supply. A “Test/ON” switch is installed on top of the beacon, along with a strobe light. The Cat. 1
beacon must be stored in its special mount, free of obstructions aboard a vessel for automatic float-off. The
unit is self-buoyant and no external flotation devices are required.

7.2 Technical Data - GlobalFix™

The GlobalFix™ EPIRB is available in two combinations. The following product codes define the options
available to meet specific operational requirements:
Prod. No. 2742, Model RLB-35, Category 1
Prod. No. 2744, Model RLB-35, Category 2

Note: All models above conform to Class 1 Requirements (operations: –40 °C to 55° C storage: -50°C to 70°C)

Applicable Documents
RTCM Standard for 406 MHz Satellite EPIRBs
COSPAS-SARSAT Certificate No. 136
Document C/S T.001
Document C/S T.007

FCC Part 80 and GMDSS (Prod. No. 2742)

MED Registration number 4612/506 0016/2005
Notified Body: 0735

7.3 Specifications

406 MHz Transmitter

Frequency
Output Power
Digital Message
Format
Duration

1

Leaves ACR with Serialized U.S. code but can be reprogrammed at a service center to Maritime or other

406 MHz

5 Watts
Standard Location
Protocal

1

520 ms

Frequency Stability
Rate
Modulation

Encoding

coded format including nationality of registration.

±2 parts per billion/100ms

400 bps
±1.1 radians peak

Biphase L

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121.5 MHz Transmitter

Frequency
Frequency Tolerance
Output Power
Modulation Type

Antenna Xenon Strobe

Frequency
Polarization
VSWR

GPS Antenna

Battery Life Temperature Range

Operating
Replacement Interval

General/Environmental

Size (less Antenna)
Antenna Height

EPIRB Material

7.4 Accessories

Mounting Case

(Cat. 1)

Size

Release System

Hydrostatic Release Kit

Mounting Brackets

Size

121.5 MHz
±50 ppm
25 mW PEP
AM (3K20A3X)

406 & 121.500 MHz
Vertical
Less than 1.5/1
12 Channel Parallel
Receiver

48 hours minimum
5 years or after use in an
emergency

7.0 x 4.25 x 3.62 in.
(17.8 x 10.8 x 9.2 cm)

7.5" (19.05 cm)
High impact and UV
resistant plastic

P/N. 9435

6.5" x 17.1" (16.51 cm x 43.4 cm)
Hydrostatic with manual override

P/N 9490, Universal HRU kit

(Cat.2)

P/N 9430

5.3" x 6.9" (13.5 cm x 17.5 cm)

Sweep Range
Sweep Rate
Duty Cycle

Light Color
Output Power
Flash Rate

400 to 1200 Hz
3 Hz

37.5%

White

0.75 effective candela
20—30 per minute

Operating
Storage

CLASS 1 -40°C to +55°C
CLASS 1 -50°C TO +70°C

Color
Weight

Waterproof

Yellow

2.25 lbs. (1.1 kg)
Exceeds RTCM
Standards - Factory
Tested to 10 meters at
room temperature

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ACR Electronics, Inc.

5757 Ravenswood Road,
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312-6645
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

http://www.acrelectronics.com

ACR Electronics Europe GmdH

Handelskai 388 / Top 632
1020 Vienna
Austria
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITIES

MARINE EQUIPMENT DIRECTIVE
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

We hereby declare that the following product is in conformity with the Council Directive 96/98/EC of 20 December
1996 on Marine Equipment as amended by Commission Directive 2002/75/EC of 2 September 2002 and that it has
been type examined as follows.

Product: 406 MHz (COSPAS-SARSAT) Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB)

ACR GlobalFix™ RLB-35 (Cat. 1 & Cat. 2)

Notified Body: Bundesamt fϋr Seeschifffahrt und Hydrographie (BSH) – Germany

Notified Body No. 0735

Certificate No. 4612/506 0016/2005

Type Examination: Annex A.1, Item No. A.1/5.6 and Annex B, Module B in the Directive
Standards IMO Res. A.810(19)

IMO MSC.56(66), MSC.120(74)
IMO MSC/Circ.862
IMO Res. A.694(17)
IEC 61097-2
IEC 60945
ETS 300 066
COSPAS-SARSAT C/S T.001
COSPAS-SARSAT C/S T.007

Manufacturer: ACR Electronics Inc., Fort Lauderdale, Florida USA
EU Representative: ACR Electronics Inc. (European Office)

Lymington, Hampshire, UK.

Signed on behalf of ACR Electronics Inc.
Signed : _________________________________
Name: John F. Flood Title: V.P. Engineering
Date: April 11, 2006

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ACR Electronics, Inc.

5757 Ravenswood Road, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312-6645
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

www.acrelectronics.com

ACR Electronics Europe GmdH

Handelskai 388, Top 632
A-1020 Vienna
Tel: [phone] - 0 Fax: [phone] - 150

INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION
SHORE BASED MAINTENANCE

The Maritime Safety Committee approved guidelines for shore-based maintenance (SBM) of satellite EPIRBs, for the
purpose of establishing standardized procedures and minimum levels of service for the testing and maintenance of
satellite EPIRBs to ensure maximum reliability whilst minimizing the risk of false distress alerts.

Ref. T2/6.01
MSC/Circ.1039

Product : 406 MHz (COSPAS-SARSAT) Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB)

ACR GlobalFix™ 406 RLB-35 (Cat. 1 & Cat. 2), ACR Satellite

406™ RLB-32 (Cat. 1 &

2

Cat. 2), ACR RapidFix™ RLB-33 (Cat. 1 & Cat. 2), ACR Satellite 406™ RLB-27/28 (Cat.
1 & Cat.2) Float Free 406 Memory Capsule RLB-35MC (Cat. 1)

Maintenance : 406 MHz satellite EPIRBs should be inspected and tested in accordance with
Service Interval: MSC/Circ.1040. Shore-based maintenance of all satellite EPIRBs should be carried out

by the flag administration and not exceeding 5 years. It is recommended that
maintenance be performed at the time when the battery is to be changed.

All ACR 406 MHz EPIRBs shall have their first shore-based maintenance performed on

the same dates as their battery replacement.

SBM Providers: : ACR only authorizes battery replacements and shore based maintenance to be

performed by certified ACR service providers.

Manufacturer : ACR Electronics Inc., Fort Lauderdale, Florida USA

Signed on behalf of ACR Electronics Inc.

Signed : _________________________________
Name: John F. Flood Title: V.P. Engineering

Date: September 27, 2006

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