Orolia PLB 1 GPS, PLB 1 User Manual

Fastfind & Fastfind Plus
Personal Locator Beacon
Owner’s manual
WARNING
Use only in situations of grave and imminent danger
Register PLB with NOAA SARSAT (refer to details on Page 2 following) before use
Contents
Recommendations and Safety Notices.......................................1
Registration and licensing...........................................................2
Quick Checklist ...........................................................................3
Introduction .................................................................................4
Preparation for Use.....................................................................4
Operation ....................................................................................5
Self-test ............................................................................................. 5
Emergency operation ........................................................................7
Switching off......................................................................................8
Using the PLB in an emergency .................................................9
How does it work?.....................................................................10
PLB Registration .......................................................................11
COSPAS-SARSAT Satellite System.........................................12
Indicators...................................................................................14
Fastfind (non-GPS version).............................................................14
Fastfind Plus (integral GPS version) ...............................................15
False Alarms and Complete Deactivation.................................17
Service and Maintenance .........................................................18
Before use.......................................................................................18
After use..........................................................................................18
Inadvertent Activation...................................................................... 18
Battery Packs ............................................................................18
Spare Parts ..................................................................................... 19
Service ............................................................................................19
Verification ......................................................................................19
Specification..............................................................................20
McMurdo Limited Product Warranty .........................................22
IMPORTANT
Please take time to read this manual carefully and to understand its contents fully, so that you can maintain your PLB and operate it correctly in case of an emergency
Recommendations and Safety Notices
This Fastfind or Fastfind Plus Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is an emergency radio beacon for use only in situations of grave and imminent danger.
False alarms cause expensive disruption to search and rescue services, and may endanger lives. Deliberate misuse of the PLB can result in a severe penalty.
Make sure you read this manual and understand how to activate/de­activate your PLB, and how to change the battery packs. Ensure that the PEPIRB is registered with NOAA SARSAT office in Suitland, MD. Failure to register may lead to prosecution.
The PLB and battery pack contain no user-serviceable parts. Do not dismantle the PLB or the battery pack. Battery packs contain lithium batteries. Do not incinerate, puncture, deform, or short-circuit. Dispose of spent battery packs safely and in accordance with local waste disposal regulations.
The PLB is a radio transmitter, and as such emits radio frequency radiation when activated. This radiation is classified as harmless because of the levels and duty cycles; however it is advisable not to handle the antenna while the unit is transmitting.
Page 1
Registration and licensing
Each PLB is programmed with a unique digital identity before reaching the customer. This 15 digit hexadecimal number appears on the programming information label located on the back of the PLB (visible when the battery pack is removed), and is pre-printed on the registration card included in the PLB pack. This is the identity which is transmitted to the satellite system when the PLB is activated.
The registration form must be completed, signed, and forwarded to the NOAA SARSAT office in Suitland MD by fax or mail as soon as possible. The registration forms are pre-printed with the correct mailing address and fax number. Registration will also be available on-line (anticipated date: August 1 2003) at http://www.sarsat.noaa.gov, or forms may be downloaded now for completion off-line. Use the PLB form in both
cases.
Emergency Contact
It is VITAL that the Emergency Contact information is accurate, particularly regarding the telephone number, as this will be used to validate an alert. Only if the beacon registration and approximate location details can be confirmed will AFRCC (the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center) launch an immediate rescue, otherwise there will be a delay whilst further alerts from the same source are received and verified.
You will be sent a sticker which must be attached to the PLB. The most convenient place for this is on the front of the unit clear of the recess for opening the cover.
Registration address:
NOAA SARSAT Beacon Registration E/SP3, RM 3320, FB-4 5200 Auth Road Suitland MD 20746-4304
FAX: 301-568-8649
Helpline: 301-457-5678 or toll-free: 1-888-212-SAVE (7283).
Page 2
Quick Checklist
Do:
Test the PLB before taking it on a trip
Ensure that the PLB is registered with NOAA
SARSAT
Make sure that you know how to activate and position the PLB in an emergency
Check the battery expiry date
Don’t:
Activate the PLB unless there is a genuine emergency
Tamper with the red cover or antenna
Test the PLB more than once per month (on
average)
Page 3
Introduction
Congratulations on your discerning purchase of this Fastfind 406MHz PLB. This beacon has been designed to ensure your peace of mind by providing you with many years trouble-free service. If you have any problems or require further help and advice, please do not hesitate to contact your retailer, distributor or McMurdo directly.
The Fastfind and Fastfind Plus PLBs are Personal Locator Beacons. In an emergency, activating the beacon causes an alarm to be transmitted to the rescue services through the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite array. This alarm enables the user’s location to be established; the PLB also transmits a local homing signal to direct the rescue mission.
The Fastfind PLB uses the satellite system to establish the position of the emergency; the Fastfind Plus incorporates a GPS (Global Positioning System) module which pinpoints the user’s position directly and sends this information to the satellite for onward transmission.
Preparation for Use
List of contents
PLB Belt bag Lanyard User manual (this document)
Open the box and check the contents. Test the PLB in accordance with the instructions in the next section of this manual.
Belt bag
The belt bag is for carrying the PLB hands-free. Fit the bag to the belt. Attach the lanyard to the PLB by removing the battery securing screw, as described on Page 15. Clip the lanyard to the D-ring inside the bag, then place the PLB in the bag and close the self-sealing cover. To remove the PLB, pull open the cover and extract the PLB.
Page 4
Operation
Self-test
Emergency ON button
Green lamp
Red lamp
Self-test/OFF button
PLB control panel (Fastfind shown)
The PLB should be tested before setting out, but testing should be limited to about 12 times per year to minimise the total power taken from the battery. Self-test should only be carried out in the first five minutes of any hour.
Open the flip-top lid. Do NOT pull off the red anti-tamper cover.
Self-test uses the OFF/Test button, located under the flexible handle of the red anti-tamper cover on the right side as shown above.
Slide a finger under the flexible handle of the anti-tamper cover to operate the switch. Press the switch and HOLD IT DOWN until the self­test sequence is completed. This will take about 8 seconds. While the button is held down and the self -test sequence is in progress the red indicator light marked “ON” (above the switch) will illuminate.
Page 5
Self-test
On successful completion of the self-test sequence, the green light on the left will flash 3 times and the buzzer will sound 3 times. The PLB will switch itself off after completing a self-test, even if the OFF button is still held down. Release the button and close the flip-top lid.
If the self-test fails, repeat it. If the problem persists, check the battery expiry date. Do not use the PLB; return it to a dealer.
Page 6
Emergency operation Important: DO NOT pull off the red anti-tamper cover unless you are
activating the PLB in an emergency. Make sure the PLB is firmly anchored to lifejacket, clothing, or person (eg with a strap) before activating.
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. 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.
Locate and press the large START/ON button located in the centre of the PLB switch panel. THE START/ON BUTTON MUST BE HELD DOWN FOR ABOUT 1 SECOND.
The indicator lights will show the status of the PLB. When the indicator lights are flashing, the PLB is transmitting. A full table of the status indications is given in the section “Indicators”. The PLB will continue to transmit for a minimum of 24 hours. Important: Transmissions do not start until the PLB has been active for 2 minutes. This is to allow time to switch the unit off in the event of accidental activation, preventing a false alert being sent to the search and rescue services. During this period the red indicator light comes on continuously on both the Fastfind and Fastfind Plus models.
Pulling anti-tamper cover from PLB Antenna erected
Page 7
Switching off
To switch off the PLB after it has been activated in an emergency (eg when rescue has been effected), press the OFF button and hold it down until the indicator lights go off and the buzzer stops sounding.
A five second delay is built in to the operation of the OFF switch to prevent inadvertent de-activation during an emergency situation. After operating the OFF button, confirm that both indicator lights are extinguished and that the buzzer has stopped.
PLB antenna erected
Page 8
Using the PLB in an emergency
Do:
Keep PLB flat with antenna vertical
Try to place PLB where it has a clear view of
the sky
Don’t:
Obscure or hold the antenna
Place PLB next to large metal objects
Submerge antenna
Ideal position for PEPIRB in open area
Page 9
How does it work?
Once you activate the PLB, the PLB transmits a continuous series of radio signals on 406 MHz. Providing the PLB’s batteries are in good condition, the signal should continue for a minimum of 24 hours. These signals can be detected by aircraft within range and by orbiting and geostationary satellites. The Commerce Department’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) operates a series of satellites in low-earth and geostationary orbits to detect and locate aviators, mariners and land-based users in distress. The satellites, along with a network of ground stations and the U.S. Mission Control Center (MCC) in Suitland, MD, are part of the International Cospas-Sarsat Program whose mission is to relay distress signals to the international search and rescue community.
The PLB transmits radio signals to a constellation of Cospas-Sarsat satellites. Ground stations track these satellites and process the distress signals to obtain a location (by using Doppler location techniques) of the distress. The processed information is then forwarded to an MCC where it is combined with other location and registration information and passed to the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center (AFRCC) who alert the appropriate SAR authorities. Successive satellite passes refine and confirm this information. Alternatively, some beacons operating at the 406 MHz frequency can use the GPS system to obtain a very accurate position to within 200 feet. This position is then transmitted as part of the distress signal.
GPS systems do require a clear view of the sky in order to work effectively. Positions where the sky area is obscured significantly, such as under a tree canopy or in a steep-sided canyon, may result in the GPS system failing to acquire its position correctly. Under such conditions the GPS system “fails safe”; it does not transmit an inaccurate position, but instead sends information to indicate that no position is available. Position information is then dependent on the orbiting satellite system, with its 3 miles accuracy. However, the homing signal from the 121.5 MHz transmitter is detectable from the air and in some cases from the ground and may be of great value in refining the position of the beacon.
The Cospas-Sarsat program is operated in the United States by NOAA, the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Air Force and NASA. Since the inception of the system in 1982, over 14,000 lives have been saved world-wide and nearly 4,500 persons have been rescued just in the United States.
The network of orbiting satellites can detect signals over the entire surface of the earth; in addition, there are four geostationary satellites that appear fixed in position and which detect signals over enormous areas (approximately one-third of the surface of the earth, but excluding Polar regions).
Page 10
If an aircraft hears an activated beacon, it will immediately make a report to the Federal Aviation Administration who will pass this information to the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center (AFRCC). Detection of the beacon by aircraft or satellites is highly dependent on the beacon placement and antenna position. Once activated, the beacon should be placed in a clear area with as clear a view of the sky as possible, and with the antenna fully extended and as vertical as possible.
A beacon should not be switched off once activated for a distress situation until the SAR agency directs this.
PLB Registration
It is ESSENTIAL that you register your PLB with NOAA SARSAT at Suitland, MD, as described on Page 2.
Registration helps reduce the number of false alarms and hoax calls, and so makes the rescue service more efficient.
On receipt of a PLB alert, the SAR organization (ie AFRCC) will firstly try to check that the registered owner of the PLB has not accidentally activated the beacon. They will then try to confirm the approximate location before launching a rescue mission. This is another good reason for ensuring that somebody at your home knows where you are going. For the same reason, you should not lend your PLB to anybody unless you know what they are planning to do with it - you (or your named contact) will be the person contacted if an alert is generated.
Page 11
COSPAS-SARSAT Satellite System
This diagram shows the path the distress signal takes from the PLB through the satellite and ground station to the Search and Rescue organization, as was described on Page 10.
The orbiting satellites circle the entire Earth; the illustration shows the satellite “footprint” (the area each satellite sees as it passes).
System graphic and GOES images ©NOAA, LEOSAR satellite courtesy of COSPAS-SARSAT
Page 12
The images below show the coverage areas of the geostationary NOAA satellites over North America. GOES-W can see the entire continent, although the East coast is marginal; only Alaska and Hawaii are invisible to GOES-E. Consequently, coverage overlaps over virtually all the continental US and there is always one satellite which can see any place. This means that a GPS-fitted PLB will have its distress position known almost instantaneously - provided that the GPS system can determine the position, as described on Page 10.
GOES-W
GOES-E
Page 13
Indicators
Fastfind (non-GPS version)
Event
Red Light On while self-test sequence in
Green Light Buzzer Off Sounds 3 times
Event
Red Light On continuously for first 2
Green Light Buzzer Sounds approx every 2.5 seconds
Event
Red Light Off Flashes 3
Green Light
Buzzer Off Off - - -
Meaning
Action to be taken
Self-test button pressed and held Self-test completed and passed
progress (approx 8 seconds) Off Flashes 3 times
First 2 minutes After 2 minutes
Start/On button pressed 121.5MHz homing transmitter
minutes
Off Off Long flash for 2 seconds every 50
Self-test button pressed and held
Off Off Long flash for 2 seconds
No power to PLB Self-test
Check battery pack is secure. Replace battery pack. Return unit to dealer if problem persists.
on. Flashes every 2.5 seconds except during a 406 MHz burst transmission
DIAGNOSTIC INDICATIONS SPECIAL
Self-test completed
times
failure Do not use. Return unit to dealer.
PLB SELF-TEST
Off
EMERGENCY OPERATION
406 MHz burst transmission
Off
seconds, then off.
During operation Protocol
Does not flash Flashes every
every 50 seconds, then off.
No 121.5MHz signal No 406 MHz
None. Unit is still broadcasting 406MHz signal.
2.5 seconds Does not flash -
signal None. Unit is still broadcasting
121.5MHz signal.
MODES
Programming
Flashes continually.
Programming mode. Programming can only be carried out by an authorised dealer using special equipment.
Page 14
Fastfind Plus (integral GPS version)
Event Self-test button pressed and held Self-test completed and passed Red Light On while self-test sequence in progress (approx 8 seconds) Off Green Light Off Flashes 3 times Buzzer Off Sounds 3 times
First 2
Event Start/On
Red Light On
Green Light Off Off Off On for 2
Buzzer Sounds approx every 2.5 seconds
minutes
button pressed
continuously for first 2 minutes
121.5MHz homing transmitter on.
Flashes every 2.5 seconds
PLB SELF-TEST
EMERGENCY OPERATION
406 MHz burst transmission
Long flash for 2 seconds every 50 seconds. Then flashes every 2.5 seconds.
After 2 minutes
406 MHz burst transmission with GPS data less than 20 minutes old Long flash for 2 seconds every 50 seconds. Then flashes every 2.5 seconds.
seconds every 50 seconds. Then flashes every 2.5 seconds. Comes on in time with red light.
406 MHz burst transmission with GPS data more than 20 minu tes old
Long flash for 2 seconds every 50 seconds. Then flashes every 2.5 seconds.
On for 2 seconds every 50 seconds (approx), then off.
Page 15
DIAGNOSTIC INDICATIONS SPECIAL
Event
Red Light Off Flashes 3
Green Light Buzzer Off Off - - - -
Meaning
Action to be taken
Self-test button pressed and held
Off Off - - Does not flash -
No power to PLB
Check battery pack is secure. Replace battery pack. Return unit to dealer if problem persists.
Self-test completed
times
Self-test failure
Do not use. Return unit to dealer.
Only flashes for 2 seconds every 50 seconds
No 121.5MHz signal
None. Unit is still broadcasting 406MHz signal.
During operation Protocol
Flashes every
2.5 seconds, but no long (2 second) flash
No 406 MHz signal
None. Unit is still broadcasting
121.5MHz signal.
- Flashes
GPS has not been able to acquire a fix since switch­on If possible, make sure GPS view of the sky is not impaired. Flashing red light shows status of
121.5 & 406 MHz transmissions.
MODES
Programming
continually.
Programming mode.
Programming can only be carried out by an authorised dealer using special equipment.
Page 16
False Alarms and Complete Deactivation
If the PLB has been accidentally activated, or if rescue has been effected before arrival of the rescue services:
Attempt to contact the rescue services, coastguard, or police by radio or telephone to advise them of the situation.
Only switch off the PLB if you cannot make contact with the authorities, otherwise leave it on until instructed by the rescue services or authorities to turn it off.
The PLB may be completely deactivated by removing the battery pack, as described in the Service and Maintenance section.
Because the PLB is completely sealed against the environment only when the battery pack is fitted, deactivating the unit by removing the pack is not advisable unless:
the PLB cannot be switched off because of damage sustained during the emergency
or
on instruction from the authorities or rescue services.
Page 17
Service and Maintenance
WARNING: If the PLB has been used in an emergency, the battery pack
must be replaced. It is advisable to return the PLB to a dealer for a complete service.
Before use
If the PLB has not been examined for more than 1 month, check the battery expiry date. Run the self-test. Examine the PLB for any signs of cracks or other damage.
After use
If the PLB has not been activated, clean it using fresh water, wipe dry and examine for any damage. Store in a cool dry place until next needed.
Inadvertent Activation
If you accidentally damage the tear-off cover or the tamper seal or if you deploy the antenna, the PLB should be returned to a dealer for repair and examination.
Battery Packs
The PLB may be fitted with either of 2 battery packs, which can be changed by the user. Both types of pack will operate in temperatures up to +55°C (+131°F), and may safely be stored in temperatures up to +70°C (+158°F).
-20°C Class 2 Battery Pack Part No. 85-720-004
-40°C Class 1 Battery Pack Part No. 85-740-004
The larger battery pack will provide 24 hours continuous operation at a minimum temperature of -40°C (-40°F), making the PLB compliant with COSPAS-SARSAT Class 1 beacon requirements. With the larger Class 1 battery pack fitted, the PLB does not float and should not be used around water. The smaller battery pack provides 24 hours continuous operation at a minimum temperature of -20°C (-4°F). With this pack fitted, the PLB complies with COSPAS-SARSAT Class 2 beacon requirements, and is buoyant. Make sure that the battery fitted to the PLB is suitable for the environment in which it may be used.
Page 18
A new battery pack must be fitted when the expiry date has been reached. Only use branded battery packs designed specifically for the Fastfind and Fastfind Plus products. Do not remove and replace the battery pack unnecessarily: this may jeopardise the integrity of the O-ring seals which prevent water ingress around the battery connections between the battery pack and the PLB. To change the battery pack, refer to the instructions supplied with each battery pack.
Spare Parts
Battery pack, Class 1, -40°C 85-763-040 Battery pack, Class 2, -20°C 85-763-020
Replacement pouch 85-736-004 Replacement cover FastFind 85-764-004 Replacement cover FastFind Plus 85-764-504
Service
The PLB contains no user-serviceable parts. It must be returned to a dealer or Service Agent if it requires service.
A list of dealers and service Agents is on the McMurdo web site,
www.mcmurdo.co.uk, and on the McMurdo Pains Wessex site, www.mcmpw.com
When the PLB is returned by post, if possible the original packing should be used. Postage must be paid. Ensure that the name and address of the owner is enclosed with the PLB.
Verification
After a battery change, or alternatively at intervals of approximately 5 years, it is recommended that the PLB is taken to an Approved Service Agent for calibration checking. The Service Agent possesses test equipment which verifies the performance and programming of the PLB; this testing is rapid and involves no disassembly of the PLB.
Page 19
Specification
General
Approved to COSPAS-SARSAT T.007 Class 1
Complies with EN 60945
RTCM 76-2002/SC110-STD V1.1
Operating temperature range -40°C to +55°C with Class 1 battery fitted,
-20°C to +55°C with Class 2 battery fitted Storage temperature range -50°C to +70°C Operational life, Class 1 24 hours minimum at –40°C Operational life, Class 2 24 hours minimum at –20°C Battery type, Class 1 12V lithium sulphur dioxide Battery type, Class 2 11V lithium iron disulphide Battery expiry 5 years from date of manufacture
Electrical
406.028MHz transmitter
Frequency 406.028MHz +1kHz Output power 5W+2dB Data encoding Bi-phase L Modulation Phase modulation; 1.1rads+0.1rads Transmission time 520ms+1% GPS, 440ms+1% non-GPS Repetition period 50secs+2.5secs
121.5MHz transmitter
Frequency 121.5MHz +3kHz Output power 50mW+3dB PERP Transmit duty cycle 100% Modulation format 3K20A3X (2K00A2A during Morse “P” Tx) Modulation frequency sweep 1300Hz to 350Hz
(fixed 1kHz tone during Morse “P” Tx) Modulation duty cycle 41%+5% Sweep repetition rate 3Hz+1Hz Sweep direction UP
Page 20
GPS receiver/engine
(Fastfind Plus only) Centre frequency Band L1 1.57542GHz Received signal sensitivity -175dBW minimum Maximum number of satellites
12 tracked
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 +3dBi nominal
External interfaces
Programming interface IR link to PC serial port Manual activation Sealed membrane switch with tamper cover Self test/Manual deactivation Sealed membrane switch
Physical characteristics
Weight, Class 1 411g Weight, Class 2 300g Length 146mm Width 78mm
Buoyancy Buoyant with Class 2 battery Sealing Waterproof to 5m immersion
Communications
Time to first transmission 2 minutes Typical time to alert LEOSAR: 90 minutes*
GEOSAR: 05 minutes* Position accuracy Fastfind Plus: 30m
Fastfind: 5km*
* COSPAS-SARSAT published figures
Page 21
McMurdo Limited Product Warranty
Subject to the provisions set out below McMurdo Limited warrants that this product will be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 12 months from the date of purchase.
McMurdo Limited 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 Limited's instructions (whether oral or in writing) including a failure to install properly and/or to use batteries recommended and/or supplied by McMurdo Limited, misuse or alterations or repair of the product by persons other than McMurdo Limited or an Approved Service Agent;
for parts, materials or equipment not manufactured by McMurdo Limited in respect of which the buyer shall only be entitled to the benefit of any warranty or guarantee given by the manufacturer to McMurdo Limited;
for the battery storage life which is specifically excluded from this warranty;
if the total price for the product has not been paid.
McMurdo Limited does not make any other promises or warranties (express, implied or statutory) about the product except where the product is sold to a consumer in which case the statutory rights of a consumer are not to be affected.
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 Limited shall be entitled to repair or replace the product (or part) in question free of charge, or at McMurdo Limited's sole discretion to refund to the buyer the price of the product (or a proportional part of the price). McMurdo Limited 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 Limited shall only be liable where other loss or damage is foreseeable.
Nothing shall limit McMurdo Limited'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 Limited Silver Point, Airport Service Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO3 5PB, United Kingdom
Telephone: Int + 44 (0) 23 9262 3900 Fax: Int + 44 (0) 23 9262 3999 Web: www.mcmurdo.co.uk Email:sales@mcmurdo.co.uk
Page 22
User Notes
Page 23
Contact:
McMurdo Pains Wessex Inc
200 Congress Park Drive Suite 102 Delray Beach, Florida 33445
Telephone 561 819 2600 Fax 561 819 2650 Toll free: 1 800 576 2605
www.mcmpw.com
Website: www.mcmurdo.co.uk Email: customerservice@mcmurdo.co.uk
Manufactured by:
McMurdo Ltd
Silver Point Airport Service Road Portsmouth Hampshire United Kingdom PO3 5PB
A member of the Chemring Group plc
85-902-820 Issue 1
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