OCEAN SIGNAL EPIRB3 Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon User Manual

June 9, 2024
ocean SIGNAL

OCEAN SIGNAL EPIRB3 Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon

Product Information: EPIRB3

  • Class 2, Category 2 Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon with AIS and RLS
  • Compatible with the Cospas-Sarsat System which includes two types of satellites and a new type of satellite in the medium-altitude Earth orbit (MEO)
  • Equipped with Return Link Service and AIS System
  • Comes with manual release, optical indications on activation, and deactivation features
  • Includes NFC and Mobile App for beacon testing and GNSS Test
  • Requires registration for proper usage

Product Usage Instructions: EPIRB3

  1. Record your EPIRB3 details including owner’s name, vessel name, and Beacon HEX ID (UIN) for ease of access.
  2. Read the manual completely before using the EPIRB3.
  3. Use the EPIRB3 only in situations of grave and imminent danger.
  4. For manual activation, follow the steps provided in the manual.
  5. After activation, an AIS EPIRB device will activate an alarm on all AIS equipped vessels within VHF range alerting them to the fact that a person is in the water needing assistance.
  6. For installation, follow the instructions provided in the manual including location, mounting dimensions, and fitting the EPIRB3 into the mounting bracket.
  7. To test the EPIRB3, use NFC and Mobile App for beacon testing and GNSS Test.
  8. Be sure to register the EPIRB3 for proper usage. Follow the advice to owners of EPIRBs and country specific registration information provided in the manual.
  9. For maintenance, battery replacement, decommissioning and disposal, transport, and spare parts information, refer to the Appendix section in the manual.

© 2022 Ocean Signal Ltd
The technical data, information and illustrations contained in this manual were believed to be correct at the time of print. Ocean Signal Ltd reserve the right to change specifications and other information contained in this manual as part of our continual improvement process. No part of this manual may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, electronic or otherwise, without the prior permission of Ocean Signal Ltd. No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions in this manual. Ocean Signal® and rescue ME® are registered trademarks of Ocean Signal Ltd.OCEAN SIGNAL EPIRB3 Emergency Position 01

For ease of access please record details of your EPIRB3 here:
Owners Name: ……………………………………………….
Vessel Name: ……………………………………………….
Beacon HEX ID (UIN): ……………………………………………….

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
USE ONLY IN SITUATIONS OF GRAVE AND IMMINENT DANGER
MANUAL ACTIVATION
OCEAN SIGNAL EPIRB3 Emergency Position 03

 ABOUT YOUR EPIRB

 COSPAS/SARSAT System

The basic Cospas-Sarsat concept is illustrated in the figure below.
The System is composed of:

  • distress radio beacons (ELTs for aviation use, EPIRBs for maritime use, and PLBs for personal use) which transmit signals during distress situations
  • instruments on board satellites in geostationary and low-altitude Earth orbits which detect the signals transmitted by distress radio beacons
  • ground receiving stations, referred to as Local User Terminals (LUTs), which receive and process the satellite downlink signal to generate distress alerts
  • Mission Control Centers (MCCs) which receive alerts produced by LUTs and forward them to Rescue Coordination Centers (RCCs), Search and Rescue Points Of Contacts (SPOCs) or other MCCs

The Cospas-Sarsat System includes two types of satellites:

  •  satellites in low-altitude Earth orbit (LEO) which form the LEOSAR System
  • satellites in geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) which form the GEOSAR System

The future Cospas-Sarsat System will include a new type of satellite in the medium-altitude Earth orbit (MEO) which will form the MEOSAR System. The EPIRB3 is fully compatible with the new MEOSAR satellites.

 Return Link Service

The Galileo Return Link Service (RLS) is a free-of-charge global service available to Cospas-Sarsat RLS compatible beacons. The new functionality, currently offered uniquely by Galileo, enables a communication link that relays a Return Link Message (RLM) back to the originating beacon through the Galileo Navigation Signal in Space. The RLS feature is an indication on the EPIRB3 that confirms to the User that the distress signal from the EPIRB3 has been localized by the Cospas-Sarsat system and is being sent to the SAR authorities. It does NOT mean that a search and rescue mission has been launched, but only confirms that the distress alert has been received by the Cospas-Sarsat system and is being routed to the appropriate SAR agencies. The RLS aims to send an acknowledgment to the beacon within 30 minutes following activation (the response may not be received by the beacon for significantly longer). RLS is an optional function and may not be permitted in all countries. The full RLS specification can be found here:
https://gsc-europa.eu/sites/default/files/sites/all/files/Galileo-SAR- SDD.pdf

 AIS System

AIS systems operate on VHF radio bands and transceivers are fitted to all commercial shipping and an ever growing number of recreational vessels globally. Shortly after activation, an AIS EPIRB device will activate an alarm on all AIS equipped vessels within VHF range alerting them to the fact that a person is in the water needing assistance. Often it is a vessel in the close vicinity of an incident that is able to react and effect a rescue quicker than the emergency services.
OCEAN SIGNAL EPIRB3 Emergency Position 05Emergency service craft are fitted with AIS receivers allowing them to pinpoint a casualty in the water more precisely than any other system.

GENERAL

 Introduction

This manual provides valuable information for the installation, operation and routine maintenance of the EPIRB3. Please read this manual completely before using your EPIRB3.

Exposure to RF Electromagnetic Energy

This product complies with EN62479 (EU) and RSS-102 (Canada).

Warnings
  •  It is a legal requirement to register your EPIRB3 with your National Authority.

  • Only use your EPIRB3 in a situation of grave and imminent danger.

  • Deliberately misusing your EPIRB3 or setting it off accidentally may result in prosecution and a fine.

  •  Contains Lithium batteries:

    •  store between -30°C (-22ºF) to+70°C (+158ºF)
      If the EPIRB3 is stored at higher temperatures the battery life may be degraded and should be replaced earlier than the date stated. Failure to do this may result in the EPIRB3 fulfilling the stated 48hr operating life. The effect is more pronounced as the temperature increases.

    • DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REPLACE THE BATTERIES YOURSELF unauthorized opening and battery replacement may put
      your life at risk.

    • do not short circuit, incinerate or recharge.

  •  Please see section 9.4 for information on safe transportation.

  • The battery in your EPIRB3 should be replaced immediately if it has been activated, or if the test indicator shows the battery as ‘used’, or if the expiry date marked on the unit has been exceeded.

  •  Battery replacement must be carried out at an Ocean Signal authorized battery replacement centre using manufacturer supplied battery components.

  •  Please read these instructions carefully. Failure to follow the guidance in this manual may result in loss of warranty.

 What’s in the Box
  1.  EPIRB3
  2. Manual Mounting Bracket
  3.  User Guide & Labels
  4. Mounting Screws (x3)
    OCEAN SIGNAL EPIRB3 Emergency Position 06
Operating Modes

Your EPIRB3 may be operated in a variety of modes.

Manual Release and Automatic Activation
OCEAN SIGNAL EPIRB3 Emergency Position 07 Should the vessel be in danger of sinking the EPIRB3 should be removed from its bracket, the antenna extended and then placed in the sea. Contact with the water will automatically activate the EPIRB3.

Manual activation on deck
When deploying the EPIRB3 on a deck, ensure it is vertical and clear of obstructions that might impede a clear view of the sky. If the unit is thrown into the water then it will activate automatically.

Manual activation in a life raft
The EPIRB3 may be deployed from a life-raft, where it should be held in a vertical position so that there is a clear view of the sky. It is recommended that the EPIRB is held outside of the canopy. The EPIRB3 can also be tethered to the life-raft and allowed to float alongside.

EPIRB3 OVERVIEW

  1. ON/OFF Key (Under flap)
  2.  Indicator LED
  3.  Break Off Tab
  4.  Antenna
  5. Antenna Rewind Knob
  6. Strobe light
  7. TEST Key
  8.  NFC Antenna
  9.  Lanyard under rubber band
  10.  Serial Number/ UIN Label
  11.  Programming Details Label
  • The lanyard is provided to attach the EPIRB3 to the life raft or your person, once it is activated. Do not use it to attach it to the ship, as this may result in the loss of the EPIRB3 if the vessel sinks.
  • It is important that the vessel details are marked on the EPIRB3. Please use a fine tip UV resistant indelible pen to clearly mark the MMSI, Vessel Name and Call Sign in the spaces provided. Cover this label with the clear protective label provided to protect the text from wear.

 INSTALLATION

  • Failure to follow the following installation guidelines may cause the EPIRB3 to operate incorrectly.
  •  Do not mount the EPIRB3 closer than 1.0 metre to any steering compass as this may affect the accuracy of the compass.
  •  Keep the EPIRB3 away from any strong magnetic sources such as loudspeakers, compass compensation magnets, etc.
  • Do not install or operate in a location subject to high intensity RF fields (e.g. radar or communications antennas)
  •  GNSS operation may be impaired if operated within 10m of GMDSS sat-com systems.
  •  Always install the manual mounting bracket inside the vessel to prevent the EPIRB being dislodged and activated in heavy seas.
Location

The location selected must be sufficiently robust to support the weight of the entire unit. Exposure to the elements and surrounding hazards along with vibration should also be taken into consideration when choosing the location. Ensure that the mounting location allows easy access to the EPIRB3 for emergency use, maintenance and servicing.

 Mounting Dimensions

Shown below is a minimum spacing suggested to allow easy hand access to release the EPIRB3 from the bracket.

Remove the EPIRB3 from the Mounting Bracket

Prior to installation the EPIRB3 must be removed from the bracket.

Fit the Manual Mounting Bracket

Using the dimensions shown, use the three No.6 x 3/4” Countersunk screws supplied to secure the mounting bracket to a suitable bulkhead in a position that will allow easy access in the event of abandoning the vessel.

 Fitting the EPIRB3 into the Mounting Bracket

Following installation the EPIRB3 should be refitted to the bracket.
OCEAN SIGNAL EPIRB3 Emergency Position 14 IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
USE ONLY IN SITUATIONS OF GRAVE AND IMMINENT DANGER

OPERATION

The EPIRB3 is designed for best operation while floating in water. If used in other situations ensure that the EPIRB3 is placed in the open, clear of any cover and kept upright. Do not place the EPIRB3 close to large structures or under cover. In the event of the vessel starting to sink the EPIRB3 MUST be released from the bracket and placed in the water. It will activate on contact with the water. In the case of abandoning ship, if possible, recover the EPIRB3 and tie to the survival craft or person using the lanyard. For optimum operation, it is recommended that the EPIRB3 be tied to the life-raft with the lanyard and floated in the sea.

  • The EPIRB3 is prevented from activation while mounted in the Manual Mounting Bracket. For activation the EPIRB3 MUST be removed from the bracket.
  • The antenna MUST be FULLY extended for optimum performance.
 Manual Release

Remove from the Manual Mounting Bracket
Fully extend the antenna
Break off the red protective tab
Lift the yellow flap up to expose the Red ON/OFF button.
Press and hold the red ON/OFF button for 1 to 2 seconds to activate. (Until the green LED starts to flash)
The EPIRB3 will now be operational. The strobe lights will begin to flash at a rate of once every 2.5 seconds as soon as the unit is activated. For best performance it is important that the EPIRB3 is in an upright position with a clear view of the sky and as far away from any metallic structures as possible. The EPIRB3 contains a GNSS receiver. Ensure that the GNSS antenna is not obstructed and has a complete, unobstructed view of the sky – as indicated on the top of the EPIRB3. A lanyard is provided to tether the EPIRB3 to the lifeboat or life raft to ensure that it does not drift away. Make sure this is firmly attached.

EPIRB3 Automatic Operation
The EPIRB3 will sense when it has been placed in water and automatically begin to operate after a short delay, in the same manner as described above.

  • If the EPIRB3 is mounted in the Manual Bracket this function is disabled until the EPIRB3 has been released from the bracket.
  • The antenna MUST be FULLY extended for optimum performance.
Optical Indications on activation
  • The LED will illuminate green (blue if RLS is enabled) for 1 second.
  • The strobe light will start flashing.
  • Within 1 minute* of activation, the indicator LED will flash a quick burst of 5 indicating 406MHz transmission.
  • Following the first 406MHz transmission the LED will flash 8 times** (green if a GNSS fix has been acquired or red if there is no fix) indicating AIS transmission.

LED Indications with RLS Enabled

LED When Transmit GNSS RLS
(x1) Every 5 s Searching
(x3) Once Fix acquired
(x5) At transmit 406MHz No Fix Request sent
(x5) At transmit 406MHz Fix acquired Request sent
(x8) At transmit* AIS No Fix
(x8) At transmit* AIS Fix acquired
(x1) Every 2.5 s** 121MHz Reply not received
(x1) Every 2.5 s** 121MHz Reply received
(x1) Every 2.5 s

LED Indications for units configured with non-RLS Protocol

LED When Transmit GNSS
(x1) Every 5 s Searching
(x3) Once Fix acquired
(x5) At transmit 406MHz No Fix
(x5) At transmit 406MHz Fix acquired
(x8) At transmit* AIS No Fix
(x8) At transmit* AIS Fix acquired
(x1) Every 2.5 s** 121MHz
(x1) Every 2.5 s
  • The AIS transmissions will show as 8 flashes (1 every 2 seconds) as a sequence repeated once every minute
  • The 121MHz Homer will not transmit until after the first 406MHz transmission.
 Deactivation

Deactivation if Manually Activated
If the EPIRB3 has been inadvertently activated or the emergency situation has passed, it can be turned off simply by pressing and holding for 1 to 2 seconds the ON/OFF key. It is not possible for the user to replace the red protective cover. Return the EPIRB3 to an Ocean Signal authorised service centre for checking and replacement.

Deactivation if Automatically Activated
If the EPIRB3 was automatically activated by placing in water, remove from the water and dry. The EPIRB3 will automatically switch off after approximately 30 seconds.

 FALSE ALERTS

False alerts are a serious problem – they cause valuable resources to be diverted away from real emergency situations. If a false alert is initiated, by any means, it is important to contact the nearest search and rescue authority and inform them of the false alert.
Report the following information:

  1.  EPIRB3 UIN.
  2. Date, time and duration.
  3. Cause of activation.
  4. Location when the alert was activated.
  5.  Location at time of deactivation.

If the EPIRB3 was activated by mistake then turn it off. The first emergency transmission will not occur for approximately 50 seconds. If the unit is turned off within this time then the EPIRB3 will not have sent an emergency distress alert. The EPIRB3 is fitted with water activation contacts. Although the Manual Bracket is designed to prevent accidental activation, if the EPIRB3 is not correctly fitted in its bracket it is possible that this may cause a false alert situation. If the unit has been dropped into the water then remove from the water and dry the case. Wait approximately 30 seconds for the water contacts to de-activate. If the unit is still flashing after this period, check that the unit has not been manually activated; if so then follow the procedure to manually switch the EPIRB3 off. Once the EPIRB3 is switched off, it is advisable to carry out a self test before replacing the EPIRB3 into the Manual Bracket.

  • Should the EPIRB3 fail to deactivate, rewind the antenna and completely wrap in several layers of aluminium foil , or place in a metal container with a tightly fitting lid.

 TESTING

Routine testing of your EPIRB3 is recommended to ensure it is in good working order if needed in an emergency. Monthly testing is recommended, but remember that each test will reduce the battery capacity slightly and reduce the operating time of your EPIRB3 during an emergency.

NFC and Mobile App.

The EPIRB3 is capable of connection to devices using Near Field Communication (NFC). NFC technology allows communication between two electronic devices over a distance of 4cm (1.5”) or less. The benefit of using NFC in the EPIRB3 is that the power used for communication comes from the mobile device and not the beacon. The Ocean Signal mobile App allows a user to access the EPIRB3 and see the programmed details and the latest test results giving a clear indication of the beacon’s condition.
Download the App. here:
Android iOS
To use the App touch your mobile device to the top of the EPIRB3 where you see “NFC”.

Beacon Test
  • Ensure the antenna is fully deployed and above the EPIRB3 before commencing the test. Rewind the antenna before placing the EPIRB3 back in its bracket.
  •  Because the test transmits a short burst on the aircraft distress frequency of 121.5MHz, please only carry out this test in the first five minutes of each hour.
  •  It is recommended to test your EPIRB3 once a month.
  •  A magenta or amber test result indicates the battery has been used for over two hours or the recommended number of tests has been exceeded. The EPIRB3 will still operate normally in distress, but the battery should be replaced to ensure the full operating life when your EPIRB3 is needed.

Functional Test
To test your EPIRB3 is functioning correctly, press and hold the TEST key for 1 to 2 seconds. The LED will illuminate red to indicate the key has been pressed, then start flashing. Release the TEST key now. After a short pause the strobe will flash and the indicator LED will produce a flash sequence. The flash sequence indicates the total number of hours that the battery has already been in use, up to the time that the test was initiated.

LED Indications with RLS Enabled

No. of Flashes Functional Test Pass Fail
1 0 to 59min            1hr to 1hr 59min 121.5MHz homer
2 2hrs to 3hrs 59min 406MHz power
3 4hrs to 5hrs 59min AIS signal
4 6hrs to 7hrs 59min AIS Power
5 8hrs to 9hrs 59min Battery failure
6 10hrs + No GNSS

LED Indications for units configured with non-RLS Protocol

No. of Flashes Functional Test Pass Fail
1 0 to 59min             1hr to 1hr 59min 121.5MHz homer
2 2hrs to 3hrs 59min 406MHz power
3 4hrs to 5hrs 59min AIS signal
4 6hrs to 7hrs 59min AIS Power
5 8hrs to 9hrs 59min Battery failure
6 10hrs + No GNSS
  • Because this test transmits a short burst on the aircraft distress frequency of 121.5MHz, please only carry out this test in the first 5 minutes of each hour.
  • The battery must be replaced either prior to the expiry date shown on the rear label or after the EPIRB3 has been activated.
  • If, during a self test, the LED flashes magenta or amber the EPIRB3 may not have sufficient energy to operate for the specified 24-hour period. Battery replacement is recommended.

NOTE: The flash sequence will be repeated after a short pause and then the EPIRB3 will automatically power off.

AIS Test
Two AIS transmissions will occur during a Functional Test indicating “EPIRB TEST” on AIS receivers within range.

  • To visualize an indication of a successful AIS transmission during test always ensure the AIS receiving unit is configured to react to EPIRB Test signals.
 GNSS Test
  • This test should only be performed where the EPIRB3 has a clear and unobstructed view of the sky. This is required to allow the GNSS receiver to acquire a signal from sufficient satellites to allow it to determine a position. Ensure the area marked “GNSS Antenna” is not obstructed.

It is recommended that a GNSS test is carried out at least once every six months to ensure correct operation of the EPIRB3. Press and hold the TEST key for 5 seconds. The LED will illuminate red to indicate the key has been pressed, then start flashing. Shortly after, the LED will cease flashing and become a steady red light. Release the TEST key now. During the GNSS test the LED will repeat a long red  flash followed by a short green flash until either a position fix is obtained or the GNSS test fails. A successful test will be indicated by a number of green LED flashes and an unsuccessful test will be indicated by a number of red LED flashes. The number of flashes indicates the number of GNSS tests remaining (e.g. 7 flashes = 7 tests remaining). The test result flashes will be repeated after 2 seconds. If there are 10 or more tests remaining then the LED will flash 10 times only (repeated). The EPIRB3 has the capacity to carry out 60 GNSS tests within the lifetime of the battery. If there are no tests remaining immediately after the current test, the LED will flash green or red rapidly for three seconds (not repeated) depending on whether the GNSS test was successful or not, respectively. When there are no tests remaining, the LED will flash red rapidly for three seconds (not repeated). The test can be ended at any time by holding the TEST key for 1 to 2 seconds. For further information regarding Self Test and Self Test history use the Ocean Signal App to connect to your EPIRB3 using Near Field Communication (NFC).

Android iOSOCEAN SIGNAL EPIRB3 Emergency Position 36

 BEACON REGISTRATION

  •  It is the owner’s responsibility to register this beacon with the appropriate National Authority before operation.

Documentation is provided within the packaging with information regarding registration with the relevant body to comply with the required configuration of the beacon.
NOTE: For all countries listed below it is preferred that registration is completed on-line using the appropriate links.

 Advice to owners of EPIRBs

Registration of 406 MHz satellite EPIRBs:

  •  Registration with the National Authority is mandatory because of the global alerting nature of the system.
  • The information provided in the registration card is used for rescue purposes only.
  •  See the owner registration card for the National Authority contact details on how to register your beacon upon completion of the sales transaction. Before a beacon enters service, it should be registered with the National Authority.
  •  If the beacon is being transferred to a new owner, the current owner needs to inform the National Authority of the name and address of the new owner.
  • The subsequent owner of the beacon is required to provide the National Authority with the information as shown in the owner registration card.
  •  This obligation transfers to all subsequent owners.
 Country Specific Registration Information

USA
NOAA-Sarsat, USMCC, NSOF, E/SPO53, 1315 East West Hwy, Silver Spring, MD, 20910 Fax: (1.301) 8174565, Tel: (1.301) 8174515 (1.888) 2127283
Email: [email protected], Web: www.beaconregistration.noaa.gov/
CANADA
Beacon Registry, CMCC Trenton, 8 Wing Trenton, Box 1000 Stn Forces, Astra, Ontario, K0K 3W0 Fax: +1 877 406 3298, Tel: +1 800 211 8107 / +1 613 965 7265
Email: [email protected], Web: www.cbr- rcb.ca
UK
Distress & Security Beacon Registry, Pendennis Point, Castle Drive, Falmouth, TR11 4WZ Fax: +44 (0) 13 2631 9264, Tel: +44 (0) 20 3817 2006
Email: [email protected], Web: www.gov.uk/406beacon
AUSTRALIA
Australian Maritime Safety Authority, GPO Box 2181, Canberra, Australia, ACT 2601 Fax: 1800 406 329 (+61 2 9332 6323 (Int.)), Tel: 1800 406 406 (+61 2 6279 5766 (Int.) Email: [email protected], Web: www.amsa.gov.au/beacons
NEW ZEALAND
JRCC NZ, Avalon Studios, Percy Cameron Street, P.O. Box 30050, Lower Hutt, 5040 Fax: +64 4 577 8041, Tel: +64 4 577 8030 +64 4 577 8034
Email: [email protected], Web: www.beacons.org.nz
For other countries visit: www.406registration.com/countriessupported.aspx

UNREGISTERED BEACON

It is important to register your beacon. Operation of a beacon that is unregistered or incorrectly registered could lead to delays in providing the rescue services required by the operator of that beacon.

APPENDIX

Maintenance
EPIRBs require little maintenance except periodic cleaning, if required. Always use a damp cloth to clean the case and dry thoroughly.

  • Do not use solvents or other cleaning fluids as this may cause the plastics to deteriorate.
  •  Ensure the antenna is clean and not permanently bent. Ensure free movement of the antenna winding mechanism.
  •  Should the EPIRB turn on during cleaning, make sure it is turned off as quickly as possible by pressing and holding the ON/OFF Key until the LED flashes red twice and release.

Every Month
During the EPIRB self test it is advised that the following inspection is performed.

  •  Inspect the EPIRB for obvious signs of damage including the state of the antenna. Any creases in the antenna may cause operation of the EPIRB to be impaired.
  • Confirm that the EPIRB is securely mounted on the bracket.
  •  Inspect the lanyard to ensure it is not attached to any structures.
  • Confirm the battery is within the specified expiry date.
  •  Clean the EPIRB and mounting. It is recommended that the EPIRB is cleaned only using a damp cloth..

Every 12 Months

  • Annual Test and Inspection:
    Perform extended annual test according to IMO’s MSC/Circ.1040 of 406 MHz satellite EPIRBs as required by SOLAS IV/15.9 (If required by SOLAS or national regulation)

  •  Perform a GNSS Test (see section 7.2)

Shore Based Maintenance (SBM)

  • If the EPIRB is fitted on a vessel which requires GMDSS compliant equipment, the EPIRB shall be serviced, tested and approved as required by SOLAS regulation IV/15.9.2 of SOLAS 1974 as amended with, in accordance with MSC/Circ.1039 guidelines for shore-based maintenance of Satellite EPIRBs within 5 years, or by the date of battery expiry, whichever comes first.
  • There are no user serviceable parts inside the EPIRB3.
  • DO NOT OPEN THE EPIRB3, DOING SO WILL INVALIDATE THE WARRANTY AND MAY CAUSE FALSE ALERTS

Batteries
The EPIRB3 contains Lithium iron batteries for long operating life. The battery must be replaced either prior to the expiry date or after the EPIRB3 has been used, even if only activated for a short period of time. The battery condition can be determined by carrying out the Self Test procedure shown in section 7 of this manual.

  • Battery replacement must be carried out at an Ocean Signal authorized battery replacement centre using manufacturer supplied battery components.

  • DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REPLACE THE BATTERIES YOURSELF The EPIRB3 is a life saving device and unauthorized opening and battery replacement may cause the unit to fail upon activation putting your life at risk.

  • Contains Lithium batteries:

    • store between -30°C (-22ºF) to+70°C (+158ºF)
      If the EPIRB3 is stored at higher temperatures the battery life may be degraded and should be replaced earlier than the date stated. Failure to do this may result in the EPIRB3 fulfilling the stated 48hr operating life. The effect is more pronounced as the temperature increases.
  • Do not short circuit, incinerate or recharge.

Decommissioning and Disposal
Care should be taken when disposing of your EPIRB3 when it is no longer required. It is recommended to remove the battery from the EPIRB3 by removing the top case and lifting clear the circuit board.

  •  The EPIRB3 is not user serviceable and opening the case will invalidate the warranty.
  • Once removed, the battery and other components of the product should be disposed of following guidelines and laws applicable within the relevant country.
  •  Do not short circuit, incinerate or recharge the battery.
  • Incorrect handling and disposal of batteries may lead to leakage and explosion.
  •  It is the owner’s responsibility to inform the National Authority under which the beacon was registered that the beacon has been decommissioned.

Transport
When shipping your EPIRB3 the following guidance and regulations should be followed, but you are advised to contact your nearest battery replacement centre or Ocean Signal prior to shipping as regulations may have changed.

  •  Always pack your EPIRB3 securely in a stout cardboard carton. Ocean Signal advises that you keep the original packaging in case of return for service.
  • For surface transport the EPIRB3 may be shipped under Special Provision 188.
  •  For air transport the EPIRB3 should be shipped as category UN3091 and packed under IATA packing instruction 970 section II. If you are hand carrying your EPIRB3 on an aircraft please contact your airline for advice.

Safety Data sheets for all Ocean Signal products can be found on the Ocean Signal website:
www.oceansignal.com/safety-data-sheets/

Specifications

406MHz Transmitter

  • Transmit Power (EIRP]  12W
  • Frequency                      406.031 MHz +1 KHz
  • Modulation                    Phase $1.1 Radians (16 KOG1D)
  • Encoding                      Biphase L
  • Rate                              400 bps

AIS Transmitter

  • Transmit Power (EIRP]  1Watt+3dB
  • Frequency                      161.975/162.025MHz +500Hz
  • Baud rate                      9600baud
  • Synchronization            UTC
  • Messages                      Message 1 (Position), Message 14 (Status)  8 messages/minute
  • Repetition interval       Message 14 sent twice every 4 minutes

121.5MHz Transmitter

  • Transmit Power (PERP]  50mW+3dB
  • Frequency                        121.5 MHz
  • Modulation Duty Cycle   >35%
  • Modulation Factor          0.85 to1.00
  • Frequency Stability         150ppm
  • Duty Cycle                     >98%

Strobe and Night Vision Lights

  • Light Type                                            High Intensity LED & Infrared (IR)
  • Light Colour                                        White and IR
  • Average Intensity Visible                      >1 candela
  • Average Intensity Night Vision Light  15mW/sr
  • Flash Rate                                            24 per minute (nom.)

Battery

  • Type                                        Lithium Iron Disulphide [LiFeS2)
  • Operating Time                      >48Hours A -20°C
  • Battery Replacement Period     10 years

GNSS Receiver

  • Satellite Channels                72 acquisition
  • Sensitivity                            -167dBm
  • Cold Start / Re-acquisition  -148dBm / – 160dBm
  • GNSS Antenna                    Microstrip Patch

General

  • Dimensions of EPIRB (Inc. antenna)  410mm x 90mm x 101mm
    (16.1 x 3.5 x 3.9 in.)

  • Weight (EPIRB Only)                        422grams (0.92lbs)

  • IEC60945 Category                            Portable

  • Operating Temperature                      Class 2 -20C to +55C

  • Storage Temperature                          Class 2 – 30C to +70C

  • Waterproof (EPIRB)                          10m depth for 1 hour

  • Expected Life (EPIRB and Bracket)  In excess of 10 year

Approvals
In addition to Cospas Sarsat Type Acceptance, the EPIRB3 complies with the following National Approvals:

European Union
Complies with the requirements of the EU Marine Equipment Directive (MED)

UK
Complies with MSN 1874 as amended

USA
Complies with FCC 47 CFR Part 80 and US Coast Guard requirements

Canada
Compliance with ISED RSS GEN and RSS182

Australia/New Zealand
Complies with AZ/NZS 4280.1-2021

Spares
Manual Mounting Bracket
Part Number: 703S-01600

WARRANTY INFORMATION

Limited Warranty

Your Ocean Signal product is warranted against manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 2 years from the date of purchase and in accordance with the following conditions. Ocean Signal will at its discretion, repair or replace faulty product free of charge excluding the cost of shipping. Proof of purchase shall be required in order for a warranty claim to be valid from the original purchaser. All claims shall be made in writing to Ocean Signal or an approved service dealer or distributor. Ocean Signal shall not be liable to the buyer under the above warranty:

  • for any repairs or modifications carried out on the product using parts that are not supplied or approved by the manufacturer Ocean Signal including batteries and for work carried out other than by Ocean Signal or approved service dealers,
  • for any part, material or accessory that is not manufactured by Ocean Signal the consumer will be covered by the guarantee / warranty offered to Ocean Signal by the manufacturer or supplier of such a component,
  • for product which has not been fully paid for,
  • for any product supplied by Ocean Signal to a customer under an alternative warranty or commercial agreement,
  • for the cost of shipping product to and from the customer.

The Battery is only warranted until the date of expiry and provided the unit is tested in accordance with the information in the user manual as noted by the electronic witness stored within the product. The following specific item is excluded from this warranty:

  • Damage to the antenna

This warranty does not affect your statutory rights.

Extended Warranty

ENTER YOUR PRODUCT DETAILS TO GAIN THE EXTENDED WARRANTY PERIOD
Apply for free at www.oceansignal.com/warranty

OCEAN SIGNAL EPIRB3 Emergency Position 38By entering your product details you can add 3 years to the warranty period. For full details on extended warranty on this product see www.oceansignal.com/warranty. For further assistance please contact our Technical Service Department.
Email: [email protected]
Ocean Signal Ltd.
Unit 4, Ocivan Way
Margate
CT9 4NN
United Kingdom
[email protected]
www.oceansignal.com

References

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

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