FAQs

Care should be taken when disposing of your PLB or EPIRB when it is no longer required. False alerts from discarded beacons can cause rescue authorities to expend much time and effort in locating discarded EPIRBs or PLBs that have been accidentally activated. Please ensure that care is taken to completely deactivate the beacon and advise the registration authority that the beacon is no longer in service.

It is recommended to remove the battery from the beacon by removing the case lid. Dispose of the battery in accordance with local waste regulations. Please note that Ocean Signal beacons are not user serviceable and removing the lid will invalidate the warranty.

The lithium battery is designed to be used in an emergency. Unlike a rechargeable battery the amount of capacity and hence the operational life is known.
The expiry date is based on the self-discharge figures for the battery, taking the worst-case scenarios, thus ensuring the rated operational life is always achieved.

EPIRB stands for ‘Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon’. EPIRB transmissions are monitored by the international organisation COSPAS-SARSAT using a constellation of satellites. On receipt of an alert from an EPIRB, the identity of the beacon is passed to the relevant national rescue coordination centre.

Ready our Blog: What is an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon

For more information on the system please go to COSPAS-SARSAT webpage.

Registering your beacon will speed up the rescue authorities’ attempt to rescue you, providing valuable information to help identify you and contact people who might aid in identification. It is very important to ensure your registration details are accurate.

Please note that normally, the registration should be in your country of residence or the country your vessel is registered to. When you purchase an EPIRB or PLB from a supplier in another country, make sure they configure it for your intended country of registration; otherwise, it is unlikely that the registration will be accepted.

Click Here to Register

The GPS-enabled EPIRB not only provides search and rescue authorities with a more accurate position but it will also reach them quicker.

Traditional EPIRBs rely on the passing overhead of one or more COSPAS-SARSAT satellites to determine their positions. The delay in securing a suitable satellite pass can be a critical factor, potentially making the difference between life and death, particularly in colder waters.

Equipped with GPS technology, an EPIRB immediately relays its position via geostationary satellites to the rescue authorities, significantly reducing the time needed for your rescue. This advancement in technology proves invaluable in expediting rescue operations.

All EPIRBs or PLBs should be registered in the country where you live or where your vessel is registered.

Follow the link for the COSPAS SARSAT country contact list for information on where to register your device.

Most Ocean Signal products contain Lithium batteries for which there are regulations on carrying on aeroplanes as a passenger. The following rules and guidance will help you carry our products for personal use as hand luggage.

(For shipping by air as cargo, the relevant IATA regulations must be followed.)

Products containing Lithium batteries may be carried on board aircraft as carry-on luggage under IATA regulation 2.3.5.9. (currently 65th Edition 2024).

All the products listed below contain one or more batteries containing less than 2 grams of lithium metal and are tested according to the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, Subsection 38.3.

When carrying your products or spare batteries, please observe the following requirements:

– Make sure the device is protected from accidental activation. We recommend adding to the protection by using the retail packaging, where possible, or covering the unit in a protective cover such as bubble wrap.
– If carrying spare batteries, ensure they are individually wrapped in strong, plastic bags covering the terminals to avoid short circuits.
– Please check online with your airline for any further restrictions they may impose before you travel.
– We recommend printing off our battery datasheet pertaining to your beacon, so you have all the necessary information to hand if questioned.

These can be found here – Ocean Signal Battery Datasheets

The COSPAS/SARSAT system utilises two satellite arrays to provide a distress alert and location data to search and rescue authorities. The GEOSAR system can provide near-immediate alerting within the coverage of the receiving satellite. The LEOSAR system provides coverage of the polar region beyond the range of the GEOSAR system. LEOSAR satellites can calculate the location of distress events using Doppler processing techniques and are less susceptible to obstructions which could block a signal in a given direction. The system is comprised of instruments on board the satellites which detect the signals from the distress beacons.

Ground receiving stations, referred to as Local Users Terminals (LUTs) receive and process the satellite downlink signal to generate the distress alerts. The distress alerts, generated by the LUTs, are then received by Mission Control Centres (MCCs) which then forward the alert to Rescue Co-ordination Centres (RCCs), Search and Rescue Points of Contacts (SPOCs) and other MCCs.

A new generation of SAR transponders are now on the European Galileo, Russia’s Glonass, United States’ GPS and China’s BeiDou satellites. These satellites all operate in a higher orbit than the LEOSAR satellites and are known as MEOSAR. The increased number of satellites dramatically improves the detection times of distress alerts. The MEOSAR transponders are fully compatible with current generation EPIRBs and PLBs, but future beacons will use “2nd generation” technology improving location accuracy over the existing system.

This Cospas Sarsat Video explains the advantages of having an EPIRB or PLB for use in an emergency and what happens when the beacon is activated.

Position reports (MMSI, Lat, Long, COG, SOG) for Class B (SOTDMA)
– Every 3mins. when SOG < 2 knots
– Every 30s when SOG >= 2 knots < 14 knots
– Every 15s when SOG >= 14 knots < 23 knots
– Every 5s when SOG > 23 knots

Vessel data (Name, call sign, dimensions, type etc.)
– Every 6mins.

This means that if you are moored or in the marina, your data may take some while to be visible on other people’s systems.
Depending on your location visibility on Marine Traffic or Shipfinder websites may take much longer.

No. The use of the internal GPS receiver is a requirement of the AIS regulations.
The AIS can be used as a position source output by configuring it to output GPS position data (RMC NMEA sentence) although this is not generally recommended.

Always take great care when entering the MMSI number.
Once programmed changing the MMSI number will require the AIS to be ‘unlocked’ by contacting Ocean Signal via the set-up app. This could take up to 2 days.
Changing all other details entered is simple using the Mobile or Web-based set-up apps.

The ATB1 transmits and receives on the VHF band so any good quality Broad Band Marine VHF antenna will be suitable.

There are AIS Tuned antennas available which are suitable but other narrow band or tuned antennas should be avoided. If a single antenna is to be used by VHF radio and an ATB1 then an active antenna splitter should be installed.

This varies enormously depending on weather, VHF antenna height etc.
– The typical transmit range for Class B is 10nm
– The typical receive range for Class A targets is 20nm
– Receive range can exceed 100nm in the right conditions

The ATB1 needs to be configured by the user to enter the vessel’s MMSI number and other vessel details.
This can be carried out by a mobile App or a web-based program:
– For the Mobile Android version search the Playstore for Ocean Signal
– For the Mobile iOS version – this version is coming soon
– For the Web version click here

Written by Ocean Signal’s Technical Business Development Manager Kris Nieuwenhuis
here are some interesting and useful documents explaining various aspects of an AIS system
and how the extended features work to add value to your product:
– AIS Message Structure
– AIS Multiplexing
– AIS with LRM Explained

Users of Android 10+ Operating System on some mobile devices may encounter connectivity issues when using WiFi due to a change in the way that they now interact with WiFi networks.

Whilst the majority of devices are not affected by this change, some product ranges are unable to support certain applications requiring WiFi connectivity, including the Ocean Signal AIS Config app.

Ocean Signal have no control over these WiFi connectivity issues and therefore we are unable to resolve this for any of our customers.

Workarounds for you to use if no solution for your mobile device is available:
– The AIS configuration of the Ocean Signal product must be performed using an alternative mobile device; or
– Use the WEB app and a USB stick file created on: http://oceansignal.com/ais_webapp.html

The HEX ID consists of the numbers from 0 to 9 and the letters from A to F only. The character 0 is the number zero.

Yes, you can use your PLB anywhere in the world. When you register your PLB, make sure you give emergency contacts who will know where you are if you need to activate the PLB in an emergency. This aids the rescue authorities in making sure it is a real alert and will speed up your rescue.

The Cospas Sarsat system uses two methods of locating a beacon:
– The satellite system is designed to locate your beacon using the transmission alone. The accuracy of this fix is approximately a 5 nautical mile radius but is typically much better.
– The rescueME PLB1 has a built-in GPS receiver which is used to encode the position in the transmission. When the GPS has a reliable fix, usually within a few minutes, the accuracy is typically within 100 metres of your actual position can be achieved.
The combination of these two methods gives the rescue services the quickest and most accurate position.

The regulations require that the PLB must float for Australia and New Zealand. Because of the small size of the rescueME PLB1, the pouch provides buoyancy and must be permanently attached when supplied in those countries.

If you remove the pouch for land-based usage, cut the black cord leaving enough length to make a loop to re-attach the pouch or tie a separate lanyard.

The test indication is repeated. So for a battery which has been used for less than one hour, you will see a single green flash, which is repeated after a short pause.

If the battery has been used for over one hour, the indicator will change to an amber (orange) colour. Over two hours the indicator will flash amber two or more times in a close group, which will be repeated after a short pause.

The Ocean Signal rescueME PLB1 can be safely carried on board a passenger aircraft as either checked-in or carry-on luggage under section 2.3.5.9 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. The lithium metal battery in the rescueME PLB1 contains less than 2g of lithium and has been tested in accordance with 38.3 of the UN Manual of Tests. Precautions should be taken to prevent accidental activation if placed in checked-in baggage.

Yes, the battery will be replaceable after the expiry period or after the unit has been activated. The battery is not user-replaceable and must be sent to an authorised service dealer for replacement. Please find a Battery Replacement Centre on the Dealer Locator section of our site here.

Under normal circumstances, the battery in the PLB1 should be replaced before the expiry date marked on the unit.

If the unit has been activated in an emergency or if the test indicator LED is flashing amber (orange) the battery must be replaced before it is used again to ensure the full 24 hours of operation in an emergency.

The typical lifetime of the PLB1 is greater than 24 hours, but this is under defined conditions of storage and test usage. Do not assume that just because the activation was only for a short length of time the battery will not need exchanging.

Details of battery exchange in your region can be found by enquiring with a Battery Replacement Centre here.

Care should be taken when disposing of your PLB or EPIRB when it is no longer required. False alerts from discarded beacons can cause rescue authorities to expend much time and effort in locating discarded EPIRBs or PLBs that have been accidentally activated. Please ensure that care is taken to completely deactivate the beacon and advise the registration authority that the beacon is no longer in service.

It is recommended to remove the battery from the beacon by removing the case lid. Dispose of the battery in accordance with local waste regulations. Please note that Ocean Signal beacons are not user serviceable and removing the lid will invalidate the warranty.

The PLB1 is not sold with a pouch but can be purchased as an accessory from one of our dealers.

The HEX ID consists of the numbers from 0 to 9 and the letters from A to F only. The character 0 is the number zero.

Yes, you can use your PLB anywhere in the world. When you register your PLB, make sure you give emergency contacts who will know where you are if you need to activate the PLB in an emergency. This aids the rescue authorities in making sure it is a real alert and will speed up your rescue.

The Cospas Sarsat system uses two methods of locating a beacon:
– The satellite system is designed to locate your beacon using the transmission alone. The accuracy of this fix is approximately a 5 nautical mile radius but is typically much better.
– The rescueME PLB3 has a built-in GPS receiver which is used to encode the position in the transmission. When the GPS has a reliable fix, usually within a few minutes, the accuracy is typically within 100 metres of your actual position can be achieved.
The combination of these two methods gives the rescue services the quickest and most accurate position.

The test indication is repeated. So for a battery which has been used for less than one hour, you will see a single green flash, which is repeated after a short pause.

If the battery has been used for over one hour, the indicator will change to an amber (orange) colour. Over two hours the indicator will flash amber two or more times in a close group, which will be repeated after a short pause.

The Ocean Signal rescueME PLB3 can be safely carried on board a passenger aircraft as either checked-in or carry-on luggage under section 2.3.5.9 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. The lithium metal battery in the rescueME PLB1 contains less than 2g of lithium and has been tested in accordance with 38.3 of the UN Manual of Tests. Precautions should be taken to prevent accidental activation if placed in checked-in baggage.

Yes, the battery will be replaceable after the expiry period or after the unit has been activated. The battery is not user-replaceable and must be sent to an authorised service dealer for replacement. Please find a Battery Replacement Centre on the Dealer Locator section of our site here.

Under normal circumstances, the battery in the PLB3 should be replaced before the expiry date marked on the unit.

If the unit has been activated in an emergency or if the test indicator LED is flashing amber (orange) the battery must be replaced before it is used again to ensure the full 24 hours of operation in an emergency.

The typical lifetime of the PLB3 is greater than 24 hours, but this is under defined conditions of storage and test usage. Do not assume that just because the activation was only for a short length of time the battery will not need exchanging.

Details of battery exchange in your region can be found by enquiring with a Battery Replacement Centre here.

Care should be taken when disposing of your PLB or EPIRB when it is no longer required. False alerts from discarded beacons can cause rescue authorities to expend much time and effort in locating discarded EPIRBs or PLBs that have been accidentally activated. Please ensure that care is taken to completely deactivate the beacon and advise the registration authority that the beacon is no longer in service.

It is recommended to remove the battery from the beacon by removing the case lid. Dispose of the battery in accordance with local waste regulations. Please note that Ocean Signal beacons are not user serviceable and removing the lid will invalidate the warranty.

There are three test modes on the MOB1; Functional, DSC and AIS/GPS.

The Functional test should be carried out once a month and will display the length of time the battery has been used. It will also apply a load to the battery to test if it is faulty or has been discharged. It carries out other functional tests on the electronic circuitry. It does not test the GPS or make test transmissions.

The DSC test should be carried out no more than two times a year. This test sends a single DSC transmission to the MMSI programmed into the MOB1, which will be displayed on the vessel’s DSC radio. It does not send a Distress or Distress Relay call and the call does not contain the position.

The AIS test should be carried out no more than three times a year. This test activates the GPS receiver and after the position is determined it makes an AIS transmission, which will display on a suitable AIS receiver or chartplotter. The received AIS message will show the position determined by the MOB1 GPS receiver. There is also a transmission of the AIS text message containing the words “MOB TEST”. Note that this test must be done with the MOB1 in full, clear view of the sky. Without a valid position, the MOB1 will not transmit any AIS messages.

The limitation on the number of tests a year is to ensure that the battery will still have its full operational life at the expiry date of the battery.

If the unit fails to programme, showing the flashing red LED on completion, please try again. Turn the MOB1 on in programming mode again and retry. There is no need to exit the programming screen on the programme. If the programming page is showing, simply press F10 again to commence the programming sequence again. Note that the red flashing may take several seconds to start after the on-screen sequence has finished.

If you are having problems programming your MOB1, please check the following guidance.

1. Make sure that your screen brightness is set to maximum, using the controls on the monitor or device.

2. Ensure that you have commenced programming within 50 seconds of putting the MOB1 into programming mode. Failure to do this will cause the MOB1 to turn off before communication starts. Note that once programming has commenced (The white box is flashing) the MOB1 should stay on until the programming sequence is completed. Ideally, the MOB1 should be put into programming mode just before placing the MOB1 in front of the white square.

3. Ensure that the MOB1 is placed over the white square with the rubber programming adaptor firmly touching the screen and with the aperture in the rubber close to the centre of the white box.

4. Avoid programming the MOB1 in bright ambient light conditions. If necessary point the screen away from direct or bright sources of light such as the sun through a window. (In extreme circumstances, especially with older screens that have lost their brightness, place a thick cloth over the screen and MOB1 to block out the ambient light.)

5. The MOB1 configuration software requires precise timing, which may be disrupted by other applications running simultaneously, especially on slower computers. If you still encounter problems, try shutting down all unnecessary applications, including anti-virus software.

6. On laptops, the F10 key will require use in conjunction with the Function (labelled Func or Fn) to start the white box flashing black and white to send the data to the MOB1. Most keyboards will colour the F keys in the same colour as the Function key to identify this.

7. The MOB1 MMSI programming software is only available for Windows PCs. For users of other operating systems, smartphones and tablets there is an online application available. This can be accessed using the button on the installers web page. Note that it can only be used online.

Ocean Signal recommends using one of the radios from the list below with the rescueME MOB1. The following class D DSC radios have been tested in cooperation with the manufacturer and confirmed to receive the Individual Distress Relay call.

ICOM:
Current models; M91, M323, M423, M506
Older models; M411, M421, M505, M603

Simrad: RS90

Standard Horizon: The factory has confirmed the following models are compatible:

GX5500S
V4.xx (GX5500S only),

V5.xx (ALL)
V4.xx (GX2150/GX2000 only)
V1.xx (GX2200 only)

V4.xx (ALL)
V2.xx (ALL)

V2.xx (ALL)
V1.xx (ALL)

V1.xx (ALL)

Class A DSC radios have always been able to receive this call and all models are believed to be compatible.

This list is not exhaustive and will be added to as more compatible models are confirmed.

Ocean Signal welcomes enquiries from other manufacturers wishing to have their radios listed here.

The DSC functionality of the MOB1 is limited by regulations in each country. The list below indicates which functions you may expect.

AIS only: Canada, Denmark, Latvia

AIS + DSC Individual Distress Relay call plus group call sent after 30minutes: USA

AIS + DSC Individual Distress Relay call only: France, Germany, Netherlands, Spain, United Kingdom

AIS + DSC Individual Distress Relay, All Ships Distress Alert (manual initiation only): All other European countries

AIS + DSC Individual Distress Relay, All Ships Distress Alert, sent once on MOB1 activation and on manual initiation: Rest of the World.

A video showing the programming sequence for the MOB1 can be found at this link. Remember to set the display brightness to full before starting the sequence.
Note that the test key is being pressed directly and then the rubber adaptor is fitted when the MOB is ready to programme.

Yes, it is possible to reprogram the MMSI number used to call your DSC radio as many times as you like using the normal applications. There is no need to delete the old number first. The new number will simply overwrite the old MMSI number.
Each time you programme the MOB1 it will use a small amount of the battery capacity and reduce the operating lifetime by a few minutes each time.

All AIS and DSC MOBs are pre-programmed at the time of manufacture with the self-identification MMSI number. In the case of the rescueME MOB1, or the M100, this number will always start 97260—-. The 972 identifies the device as an MOB device and the 60 identifies the device as manufactured by Ocean Signal.

The user can’t change this number, which is a requirement of the relevant approval standards.

The DSC MMSI number programmed in by the user is the number the MOB1 will send the distress calls to. Compatible radios will still show the ‘from’ MMSI number as the 972 number printed on the rear of the MOB1. Likewise, the target displayed on an AIS plotter will also show the target address as the 972 number.

The provided length of cord is supplied as a safeguard against accidental loss. The cord (lanyard) should be used to tether the MOB1 to a fixed point on the lifejacket that will not inhibit inflation or detach/untie if the MOB1 is accidentally removed from its bracket. The MOB1 fixing point for the cord is located on the top of the unit.

The HEX ID consists of the numbers from 0 to 9 and the letters from A to F only. The character 0 is the number zero.

Care should be taken when disposing of your PLB or EPIRB when it is no longer required. False alerts from discarded beacons can cause rescue authorities to expend much time and effort in locating discarded EPIRBs or PLBs that have been accidentally activated. Please ensure that care is taken to completely deactivate the beacon and advise the registration authority that the beacon is no longer in service.

It is recommended to remove the battery from the beacon by removing the case lid. Dispose of the battery in accordance with local waste regulations. Please note that Ocean Signal beacons are not user serviceable and removing the lid will invalidate the warranty.

Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) are distress radio beacons that transmit location information about ships directly to Search and Rescue forces letting them know that the owner is in grave and imminent danger.

AIS EPIRBs will offer both recreational and commercial users the extra reassurance that other nearby vessels equipped with an AIS Transceiver will be notified in an emergency, in addition to the beacon’s traditional capabilities to transmit a 406 MHz distress signal via the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system to contact global rescue services.

Introducing the AIS locating signal ensures a signal will also be received by all vessels and aircraft equipped with AIS in the vicinity, enabling them to respond with immediate assistance.

Return Link Service or RLS enables newly approved EPIRB, PLB, and ELT allowing for a confirmation signal (Example: blue light flashing or message if the beacon has a digital display) that the distress signal from the beacon has been received and localised by the Cospas-Sarsat system and forwarded to government authorities for action.

It does NOT mean that a rescue has yet been organised/launched, only that the distress alert has been received and routed to the appropriate government agencies. The RLS confirmation signal or message should typically be received back to the RLS beacon between 10-20 minutes as Search and Rescue is working to facilitate your rescue.

Near-field communication (NFC) is a short-range wireless connectivity technology that uses magnetic field induction to enable communication between devices when they are touched together or brought within a few centimetres of each other.

The beacon’s data and activity are stored and when your phone is within range, the beacon’s NFC uses the phone’s power to push the data into your phone and your Beacons Mobile App.

Yes, 406 MHz beacons can be used anywhere in the world, including at both poles, just remember that you need a clear view of the sky (they will not work in buildings or caves, etc.)

The HEX ID (UIN) consists of the numbers from 0 to 9 and the letters from A to F only. The character 0 is the number zero.

The UIN (Unique Identifier Number) is programmed into each beacon at the factory. The UIN number consists of 15 15-digit series of letters and numbers that make up the unique identity of the beacon. The UIN is on a white label on the exterior of the beacon. You can also get your UIN by scanning the NFC antenna and pulling the beacon data into the Ocean Signal Mobile App.

Care should be taken when disposing of your PLB or EPIRB when it is no longer required. False alerts from discarded beacons can cause rescue authorities to expend much time and effort in locating discarded EPIRBs or PLBs that have been accidentally activated. Please ensure that care is taken to completely deactivate the beacon and advise the registration authority that the beacon is no longer in service.

It is recommended to remove the battery from the beacon by removing the case lid. Dispose of the battery in accordance with local waste regulations.

Please note that Ocean Signal beacons are not user serviceable and removing the lid will invalidate the warranty.

The difference is in how the EPIRB is deployed from the provided EPIRB bracket. A Category I beacon automatically deploys when a vessel sinks. The beacon floats free at a depth of 1.5 to 3.0m (4.9 to 13.1ft). The EPIRB can be manually activated while in its bracket or manually removed and activated. A Category II beacon is manually deployed. The EPIRB will automatically activate when removed from its bracket and comes in contact with water, or when it is still in its bracket but a person has manually pressed the power button.

Both the Category 1 and Category 2 brackets will deactivate the EPIRB’s water sensor feature so if the EPIRB should get wet while in the bracket, it will not cause a false alarm. EPIRB water activation is only possible when the EPIRB has been removed from the bracket and gets wet.

Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) are distress radio beacons that transmit location information about ships directly to Search and Rescue forces letting them know that the owner is in grave and imminent danger.

Return Link Service or RLS enables newly approved EPIRB, PLB, and ELT allowing for a confirmation signal (Example: blue light flashing or message if the beacon has a digital display) that the distress signal from the beacon has been received and localised by the Cospas-Sarsat system and forwarded to government authorities for action.

It does NOT mean that a rescue has yet been organised/launched, only that the distress alert has been received and routed to the appropriate government agencies. The RLS confirmation signal or message should typically be received back to the RLS beacon between 10-20 minutes as Search and Rescue is working to facilitate your rescue.

Near-field communication (NFC) is a short-range wireless connectivity technology that uses magnetic field induction to enable communication between devices when they are touched together or brought within a few centimetres of each other.

The beacon’s data and activity are stored and when your phone is within range, the beacon’s NFC uses the phone’s power to push the data into your phone and your Beacons Mobile App.

Yes, 406 MHz beacons can be used anywhere in the world, including at both poles, just remember that you need a clear view of the sky (they will not work in buildings or caves, etc.)

The HEX ID (UIN) consists of the numbers from 0 to 9 and the letters from A to F only. The character 0 is the number zero.

The UIN (Unique Identifier Number) is programmed into each beacon at the factory. The UIN number consists of 15 15-digit series of letters and numbers that make up the unique identity of the beacon. The UIN is on a white label on the exterior of the beacon. You can also get your UIN by scanning the NFC antenna and pulling the beacon data into the Ocean Signal Mobile App.

Care should be taken when disposing of your PLB or EPIRB when it is no longer required. False alerts from discarded beacons can cause rescue authorities to expend much time and effort in locating discarded EPIRBs or PLBs that have been accidentally activated. Please ensure that care is taken to completely deactivate the beacon and advise the registration authority that the beacon is no longer in service.

It is recommended to remove the battery from the beacon by removing the case lid. Dispose of the battery in accordance with local waste regulations.

Please note that Ocean Signal beacons are not user serviceable and removing the lid will invalidate the warranty.

The difference is in how the EPIRB is deployed from the provided EPIRB bracket. A Category I beacon automatically deploys when a vessel sinks. The beacon floats free at a depth of 1.5 to 3.0m (4.9 to 13.1ft). The EPIRB can be manually activated while in its bracket or manually removed and activated. A Category II beacon is manually deployed. The EPIRB will automatically activate when removed from its bracket and comes in contact with water, or when it is still in its bracket but a person has manually pressed the power button.

Both the Category 1 and Category 2 brackets will deactivate the EPIRB’s water sensor feature so if the EPIRB should get wet while in the bracket, it will not cause a false alarm. EPIRB water activation is only possible when the EPIRB has been removed from the bracket and gets wet.

The HEX ID consists of the numbers from 0 to 9 and the letters from A to F only. The character 0 is the number zero.

Care should be taken when disposing of your PLB or EPIRB when it is no longer required. False alerts from discarded beacons can cause rescue authorities to expend much time and effort in locating discarded EPIRBs or PLBs that have been accidentally activated. Please ensure that care is taken to completely deactivate the beacon and advise the registration authority that the beacon is no longer in service.

It is recommended to remove the battery from the beacon by removing the case lid. Dispose of the battery in accordance with local waste regulations. Please note that Ocean Signal beacons are not user serviceable and removing the lid will invalidate the warranty.

GMDSS handheld radios are limited to having the International simplex channels fitted as these are the only ones that can be used ship to ship.

The primary battery for the SafeSea V100 is protected from accidental use by a break-off tab, which inhibits the output of the battery. To test the radio, Ocean Signal provide an alkaline test battery, the TB6V. Alternatively, a rechargeable option is available, the RB5V, with a charger kit (part number 721S-00622).

A SART aids the rescue authorities in locating you in an emergency. Although it is not a primary alerting device, like an EPIRB, it will guide the rescue craft to you by displaying a position and bearing line on the rescue craft’s radar.