ACR, the world leader in electronic marine safety devices, introduces a new high tech EPIRB (Emergency Positioning Radio Beacon). The new ACR GlobalFix V6 EPIRB uses 406 MHz satellite connectivity to transmit emergency signals to the global Cospas Sarsat satellite rescue system. Return Link Service (RLS) technology provides visual confirmation to the user that their distress message has been received. A 121.5 MHz homing signal helps rescuers find the activated beacon when they are on scene. Visible and infrared strobe lights aid in target identification at night or when visibility is limited speeding rescue and recovery. A new feature called Near Field Communication (NFC) lets users monitor their EPIRB’s functions using a smartphone App. ACR is dedicated to marine safety and the new GlobalFix V6 EPIRB provides sophisticated rescue technology in a durable and reliable device that works globally.
Reliable Worldwide Digital Mayday Tells Rescuers Where to Search.
The ACR GlobalFix V6 EPIRB accurately derives its position globally through the GNSS (GPS, Galileo, Glonass) positioning networks. Triggering the device produces a digital mayday using a 406 MHz distress transmission that relays the GPS EPIRB (GPIRB) position, accurate to within 100 meters, to the worldwide Cospas Sarsat search and rescue satellite network. Position information and vessel identification are then relayed by the satellites to ground stations which ultimately helps decide the scope of rescue operation to be launched. Once the EPIRB is activated, a 121.5 MHz signal is transmitted in addition to the higher frequency satellite signal. This 121.5 MHz homing signal aids rescuers in finding the device when they arrive upon the rescue scene, particularly important if the beacon has drifted from its original location. The GlobalFix V6 EPIRB also emits both a visual and infrared strobe to help rescuers pinpoint the beacon and speed rescue operations.
Near Field Communication (NFC) Ensures the EPIRB is Functioning Properly
Using ACR’s free smartphone app and NFC (Near Field Communication) technology users can easily access EPIRB diagnostics. Placing a smartphone adjacent to the GlobalFix V6 EPIRB opens the ACR Product App which shows EPIRB data. The app shows the current battery life of the beacon, the number of GNSS and self-tests completed, and the amount of time the EPIRB has been activated. Users can see detailed information on each self-test and GNSS test performed by the device. GNSS tests include a map view demonstrating where previous tests were performed, the date and time of the tests, how long it took the EPIRB to get a fix on the GNSS coordinates, the number of satellites used to obtain that fix, and the fix’s accuracy. NFC allows users to routinely check the status of all EPIRB functions to ensure it is working properly and ready to go in case of an emergency.
Return Link Service (RLS)
Return Link Service indicates to the user that an EPIRB’s rescue transmission has been received. The RLS signal is sent back through the Galileo satellite network confirming that the digital mayday including precise beacon location and identifiers have been delivered. An easy to see flashing blue light indicates the EPIRB’s successful reception of the Return Link message through the Galileo satellite network. Those in distress who have triggered the beacon and received the RLS confirmation know that rescuers will be made aware of the EPIRB activation and location and that rescue operations will be launched.
ACR is a globally recognized leader in marine electronic rescue devices and other life-saving products. They build quality rescue equipment solutions like the new ACR GlobalFix V6 EPIRB that are suitable for all types and sizes of vessels in both the recreational and commercial sectors. Long life Lithium batteries, global 406 MHz satellite transmission, a 121.5 MHz homing signal, visual and infrared strobes, and Return Link Service that tells users their rescue signal has been received are all packed into a durable waterproof beacon. Near Field Communication and the free ACR App allow users to check the EPIRB status for added reliability. Mariners coastal cruising, working offshore or crossing oceans will appreciate the advanced features of the GlobalFix V6 EPIRB.