sMRT V300 Overboard Emergency Distress Beacon User Manual

: September 16, 2024
: SMRT

sMRT V300 Overboard Emergency Distress Beacon User Manual

INTRODUCTION

This user manual provides all the information required to operate and test the sMRT V300. The following symbols and conventions are used to indicate important information. Always observe these instructions. Ensure you read the warnings & safety information section of this manual before first use of the device.

WARNINGS: Instructions that, if ignored, could result in death or serious personal injury caused by incorrect operation of the equipment. These must be observed for safe operation.

CAUTIONS: Instructions that, if ignored, could result in personal injury or material damage caused by incorrect operation of the equipment. These must be observed for safe operation.

IMPORTANT NOTES: Important instructions that should be adhered to during system operation.

TYPOGRAPHIC CONVENTIONS

sMRT V300 hardware features are displayed in bold upper case letters e.g. ARMING SWITCH.
Operation status is displayed in bold upper case letters with square brackets, e.g. [OFF].

USING YOUR sMRT V300 FOR THE FIRST TIME

Prior to first use, please ensure that you have fully read and understand the user manual and that you perform a full system test, detailed on Page 18.

WARNING: sMRT V300 record of ownership. As a responsible manufacturer of life saving man overboard devices, the manufacturer maintains an ownership registration database to provide contact details to Government Search and Rescue (SAR) authorities in the event of an emergency.

CAUTION: The sMRT V300 should only be used in an emergency. DELIBERATE MISUSE MAY INCUR A SEVERE PENALTY.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS & ACRONYMS

1
121.5 MHz –
Very high frequency (VHF) 121.5 for international air distress
Aa
AIS – Automatic Identification System
Ack – Acknowledgment
Cc
Class-M – Man overboard class of DSC
Dd
DSC – Digital Selective Calling
Ee
ECDIS – Electronic Chart Display and Information System
EPIRB – Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon
Ff
FCC – Federal Communications Commission
Gg
Galileo – European Union satellite system
GNSS – Global Navigation Satellite System
GPS – Global Positioning System
Ii
IS – Intrinsically Safe
Ll
LED – Light Emitting Diode
Mm
MAYDAY – Voice distress priority message
MHz – Megahertz
MMSI – Maritime Mobile Service Identity
MRT – Marine Rescue Technologies
MSLD – Maritime Survivor Locating Device
mW – Milliwatt
Rr
RTCM – Radio
Technical Commission for Maritime Services
Rx – Radio receiver
Pp
PFD – Personal Flotation Device
Ss
SAR – Search & Rescue
Serial Number – Manufacturer’s identification number
SOLAS – Safety Of Life At Sea
Tt
Tx – Radio transmitter
Vv
VHF – Very High Frequency
Ww
W – Watt

WARNINGS & SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNINGS

The sMRT V300 is a local area Maritime Survivor Locating Device (MSLD), that transmits emergency messages via VHF DSC, 121.5 MHz and the wearer’s GNSS position via AIS.
Before first use, perform a full system test to confirm that the device functions correctly.
Once fitted into a PFD, a full system test of the sMRT V300 should be performed every 3 months. Do not test the device more than once per month to avoid affecting battery performance in an emergency.
The sMRT V300 should only be used in marine environments and is NOT for use on land.
The sMRT V300 should ONLY be used in an emergency. DELIBERATE MISUSE MAY INCUR A SEVERE PENALTY.
Annual inspection and recertification of the sMRT V300 by an authorised service partner is mandatory every 12 months.
Do not dismantle the sMRT V300 as it contains no user serviceable parts. Authorised service partners offer a full and comprehensive service and repair facility for recertification of units and battery replacement. Please see the full list of service partners on smrtsos.com.
The high intensity strobe light on the unit may cause discomfort if it is viewed for long periods. Avoid staring directly at it when operational.
The sMRT V300 uses positional data derived from its internal GNSS antenna to define the location of a man overboard. A clear view of the sky is required to obtain a GNSS position.
Please note that the device is only as accurate as the positional data it receives.
The sMRT V300 contains lithium batteries; do not puncture, deform, short circuit, recharge or incinerate the sMRT V300. Doing so will VOID the product warranty.
Avoid handling the antenna unnecessarily when activated and do not attempt to remove the antenna.
The sMRT V300 must only be fitted to PFDs approved by the manufacturer. A full list of these can be found online.
Only manufacturer approved and supplied attachment kits are to be used to fix the unit to the PFD.
It is the user’s responsibility to ensure that any ancillary equipment, such as survival suits/harnesses, PPE, belt pouch, clothing etc., do not interfere with the operation of the sMRT V300.
The sMRT V300 will not float. Please attach a lanyard to a solid point in the lifejacket when near water to prevent loss.
To avoid damaging or losing the device, please ensure that it is attached to a lanyard through the eye hole on the rear of the unit.
When wearing a survival suit and unable to manually activate the sMRT V300, ensure the whole beacon is immersed in water for a minimum of 2 seconds for water activation.

CAUTIONS

Do not paint the sMRT V300 or clean it with aggressive detergents or solvents. Some cleaning materials may damage the seals and affect the integrity of the device. This will VOID the product warranty.
To ensure the sMRT V300 operates as intended in an emergency:
Avoid dropping the unit
Avoid leaving the unit in direct sunlight, or in an environment where it will be exposed to high temperatures in excess of 70 °C.
Inspect the device periodically for signs of wear and tear, visible cracks or other damage.

If any damage is found, DO NOT USE and contact an authorised service partner.

sMRT V300 OVERVIEW

INTRODUCTION

The sMRT V300 is a multi-system MSLD designed to RTCM Standard 11901.2 and EU standard EN 303 132 V2.1.1 for use during a man overboard (MOB) emergency.

By integrating VHF DSC, AIS technologies, and 121.5 MHz, mariners in distress are equipped with life-saving tools that greatly enhance the likelihood of rapid location and recovery by vessels or Search and Rescue (SAR) authorities.

HOW THE sMRT V300 WORKS

The sMRT V300 uses the marine VHF radio band to transmit DSC distress alerts and updated GPS positions regularly from the casualty in the water to VHF DSC radios, as well as AIS equipped vessels within range. A short delay period prior to activation is designed to avoid the device being activated accidentally.

The sMRT V300 transmits AIS and emergency VHF DSC transmissions during activation, as well as on 121.5 MHz. The sMRT V300 uses an internal GPS receiver to acquire a position within one minute of activation. The device then sends VHF DSC and AIS transmissions containing the device’s current position.

WHAT’S IN THE BOX?

A sMRT V300
B Life Jacket Bladder Attachment Clip
C Oral Tube Mounting Clip
D Lanyard

FEATURES

A Antenna
B Lanyard Attachment Point
C Strobe Light
D TEST Button
E Arming Door
F Left LED
G Right LED
H ON/OFF Button
I GNSS Zone (inc GPS & Galileo)
J NFC Zone
K Water Sensor

LANYARD ATTACHMENT POINT
The lanyard attachment point on the rear of the device allows for the cord of the lanyard to be passed through and tied securely.

WATER SENSOR
The water sensor lead is attached to the bottom of the sMRT V300. The sensor must be immersed in water for a minimum of 2 seconds to activate

DEVICE LABEL

The rear of the unit features a label indicating all relevant device and safety information as well as compliances. Please make sure you are familiar with the information displayed.

HOW TO USE THE DEVICE

HOW TO ARM THE DEVICE

The beacon is shipped [OFF] [UNARMED].
Begin by opening the ARMING DOOR COVER, which is located on the side of the beacon
Then slide the ARMING SWITCH down to the [ARMED] position.
Finally, close the ARMING DOOR COVER to keep the switch securely in position.

We recommend that when not in use that the device is [OFF].

HOW TO ACTIVATE THE DEVICE

To activate the sMRT V300 please follow the steps below.

Ensure the device is [ARMED]
Press the ON BUTTON for 3 seconds
OR- Immerse in water for 2 seconds

IMPORTANT NOTE : For optimal performance of automatic water activation, it is necessary for the water sense lead to be completely immersed in water for a minimum duration of 2 seconds.

HOW TO DE-ACTIVATE THE DEVICE

Press and hold the ON BUTTON down for 3 seconds. -OR
Open the ARMING DOOR and slide the ARMING SWITCH from [ARMED] to the [OFF] position. This will stop all transmissions.
Class A DSC radios and shore stations may disable further DSC transmissions remotely as part of a SAR operation. This will acknowledge the emergency and the beacon will show a green indicator but will continue to broadcast its position on AIS until it is manually de-activated.
Contact the Coast Guard or Search and Rescue Coordination Centre serving your region at the earliest possible opportunity to advise them that you have cancelled the alert

IMPORTANT NOTE : If you do not have access to a VHF marine radio, contact your search and rescue authority by telephone and AIS transmissions containing the casualty’s current position.

PREVENTION OF ACCIDENTAL ACTIVATION

The sMRT V300 features an ARMING DOOR to prevent the device from being accidentally activated. In addition, manual activation is a two-stage process, requiring the user to open the ARMING DOOR and slide the ARMING SWITCH to the [ARMED] position to arm the device. The user must then press and hold the ON BUTTON to activate the device.

If the device is accidentally activated, the user can slide the ARMING SWITCH to [OFF] within 10 seconds to prevent the transmission of any distress signals.

HOW TO HELP PREVENT FALSE ALARMS

Keep the device away from young children and educate all users in device operation and the ramifications of false alarms.
Ensure that the device is stored in a dry and cool environment.

sMRT V300 LED INDICATIONS

During operation, the LEFT LED indicates device status and the RIGHT LED indicates GPS status. The LEDs may display the following indications:

IMPORTANT NOTE : If you receive a fault during the test procedure. DO NOT USE and contact an authorised service partner.

TESTING

A full system test is performed on the sMRT V300, at the point of manufacture. Before first use, we recommend carrying out a periodic full self-test on the product.

After deployment into active service, it is recommended that a full system test of the sMRT V300 should be performed every 3 months. DO NOT test the device more than once per month as this could affect battery performance in an emergency.

For optimum performance, it is required that the device be returned to an authorised service agent for annual service and recertification.

WARNINGS

Ensure the device has a clear view of the sky during testing to receive a GNSS signal.
If the sMRT V300 fails any element of a self-test or any full system test, take it out of service immediately and contact a service station.

SYSTEM TEST

To perform a test of the sMRT V300 ensure the ARMING SWITCH is [OFF] and the hold the [TEST] button for more than 3 seconds.

Self-test LED indications are displayed for several seconds at this point and may display as follows: Short beeps (approx every 15-20 seconds).

The LEFT LED indicates device test status and the RIGHT LED indicates GPS test status

If the DSC signal is not acknowledged, the test procedure is now complete. Please press and hold the T button to end immediately, or it will automatically finish after 5 minutes.

IMPORTANT NOTE : During any test, if a RED LED is displayed, please try again. If the issue persists, remove the unit from service and return it to your nearest service center.

FULL SYSTEM TEST

The LED indicators shows battery condition [GREEN] is good, [RED] means replace the battery. During stage 1 the GNSS is activated to look for satellites.
The AIS test burst is transmitted — LED indicator is purple.
The DSC test message is transmitted — LED indicator changes to white.
The beacon waits for a DSC acknowledgement for up to 2 minutes — LED indicator is white
When a DSC acknowledgement is received the LED turns off.

IMPORTANT NOTE : During any test, if a RED LED is displayed, please try again. If the issue persists, remove the unit from service and return it to your nearest service center. If the LEDs do not show [RED], the unit has passed the VHF DSC & AIS test and is fit for purpose.

During the test procedure a single burst AIS and VHF DSC message is transmitted in accordance with the international standards. Depending on conditions during testing, it is possible that an AIS and/or VHF DSC transmission may not be picked up by the receiving equipment.

If an AIS message and/or VHF DSC transmission is not displayed on the receiver this does not indicate that the device is faulty. Only when and if a RED LED is displayed, should the device be removed from service and returned to the manufacturer or an authorised service agent

CANCEL A FULL SYSTEM TEST

Press and hold the TEST BUTTON again. OR slide the slide switch to the armed position and then back to the disarmed position..

RECERTIFICATION AND SERVICING

Annual recertification is mandatory to ensure the sMRT V300 operates effectively in a lifesaving situation. Do not use your sMRT V300 if there are any signs of damage, or if any functional tests fail – RED LED. The manufacturer and authorised service agents provide a comprehensive service and repair facility for recertification of units. A list of servicing partners can be found at smrtsos.com.

RETURN UNITS FOR RECERTIFICATION & SERVICING

Please contact the manufacturer at mrtcustomerservice@wescom-group.com, or your authorised service agent, to obtain an RMA tracking number for any units being returned for recertification and servicing. Record the RMA number and include it when returning units as it is used to track the device during the servicing and recertification process.

OPERATIONAL LIFE

The sMRT V300 has an operational battery life of 1 year from the first use. When not in use, the product should be disarmed.

END OF LIFE STATEMENT

The manufacturer hereby declares that all materials, components and products supplied are in full compliance with RoHS & WEEE directives. At the end of the products operational life it must be returned to the manufacturer for safe disposal. If you are unable to return the unit then it must be disposed of according to local laws and regulations.

CHANGING CONTACT DETAILS OR OWNERSHIP

Factory assigned device MMSI numbers are allocated to sMRT V300 units prior to shipping. It is the owner’s responsibility to advise the manufacturer of any change of contact details or ownership of a sMRT V300.

If ownership is transferred, you should contact the manufacturer or an authorised service partner to register the device in your name.

DOCUMENTATION

WARRANTY

Your sMRT V300 is covered by a warranty against manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 1 year from the date of purchase, in accordance with the following conditions:

Marine Rescue Technologies Ltd reserves the right to repair or replace a faulty product at its discretion, free of charge, excluding shipping costs.
A valid proof of purchase from the original buyer is required for warranty claims.
Claims must be submitted in writing to Wescom Group or an approved service partner. A list of servicing partners can be found at smrtsos.com.

Marine Rescue Technologies Ltd is not liable under the warranty for:

Repairs or modifications performed on the MSLD using non-approved parts, including batteries, or by entities other than Marine Rescue Technologies Ltd or approved service dealers, a full list of approved dealers can be found on the sMRT website, smrtsos.com.
Parts, materials, or accessories not manufactured by Marine Rescue Technologies Ltd; in such cases, the consumer will be covered by the guarantee/warranty offered to Marine Rescue Technologies Ltd by the manufacturer or supplier.
Unpaid products or those under alternative warranty agreements

The battery is warranted until the expiry date, provided the unit is tested according to the information in the user manual.

EXCLUDED ITEMS

The following item is excluded from the warranty;

Extended water sensor lead

This warranty does not impact your statutory rights. The interpretation of this warranty is under English law. Please ensure you have fully read and understand the User Manual.

For further assistance, please reach out to our service department. Email: smrt@wescom-group.com

DISCLAIMER

The sMRT V300 is an MSLD that should only be activated as a last resort. Misuse or false activation is unlawful and irresponsible, and could result in prosecution or penalty.

The sMRT V300 should not be relied on as the only source of man overboard notification and the vessel owner, operator or master must exercise common prudence and good seamanship at all times. Use of the sMRT V300 in no way reduces liability of the vessel’s master and crew who have the primary responsibility for safety on board. No device is 100% fail safe, nor can it guarantee safe rescue in an emergency. When activated, the sMRT V300 is designed to transmit distress alerts to VHF DSC, AIS and 121.5 MHz equipped vessels or stations within range, but requires subsequent human interaction to acknowledge and respond to the distress alert.

Satellite GNSS lock and in-water tracking is dependent on the extent of satellite system coverage and reception at the time and location of the emergency. The actual time and success of rescue is therefore dependent on all these contributing factors and as such, is outside the control of the manufacturer.

This user manual contains important information that must be adhered to for reliable use and operation of the product. It is the owner’s sole responsibility to make the effort to read this manual and to ensure that the equipment’s operation and limitations are understood. Visit the manufacturer’s website www.smrtsos.com to download the latest user manuals for all products. The manufacturer reserves the right to change specifications, equipment, installation and maintenance instructions without notice as part of the company’s policy of continuous product development and improvement.

TRADEMARK NOTICE

Marine Rescue Technologies Limited, is the 100% owner of Marine Rescue Technologies Limited in the United Kingdom.

The absence of a product or service name or logo from those listed does not constitute a waiver of Marine Rescue Technologies Limited’s trademark or other intellectual property rights concerning that name or logo.

Other product names mentioned within this document may be trademarks or registered trademarks, or a trade name of their respective owner. Contact Marine Rescue Technologies at mrtcustomerservice@wescom-group.com for a copy of our trademark policy before referencing or using any trademark or product name.

© Marine Rescue Technologies Limited 2024. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be transmitted or copied in any form whatsoever, without the express written permission of Marine Rescue Technologies Limited.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Please visit www.smrtsos.com/terms-conditions to view our terms & conditions.

SPECIFICATION

GENERAL

BATTERY TYPE| 9V Lithium battery
MINIMUM ALERTING PERIOD| Minimum of 12 hours at -20°C
BATTERY SHELF LIFE AT +20°C| 5 years
OPERATING TEMPERATURE| -20° to +55°C (-4° to +131°F) as per IEC 60945:2002
STORAGE TEMPERATURE| -30° to +70°C (-22° to +158°F) as per IEC 60945:2002
DIMENSIONS| 207mm (H) (including antenna) x 59mm (W) x 23mm (D)
WEIGHT| 190g
ENVIRONMENTAL| EN 303 132 V2.1.1 clause 7, IEC 60945:2002
STROBE LIGHT| 30 candela, 170 degree dispersion, flash rate 12 /minute
ENVIRONMENTAL RATING| IP68 up to 10 metres depth
MOUNTING OPTIONS| Designed to integrate with a SOLAS approved life jacket
SELF ID| ITU-R M.585-9 Compliant factory programmed freeform Maritime Identity with 972 prefix
COMPASS SAFE DISTANCE| 0.5m (1.5ft)
ALERTING RADIUS| Typically 5 NM
|
AIS/VHF TRANSMITTER PACKAGES
AIR BAND FREQUENCIES| 121.500 MHz
ANTENNA TYPE| Vertically polarised
AIS Tx POWER OUTPUT| Nominal 1W EIRP
VHF TRANSMISSION FREQUENCIES| VHF DSC Channel 70: 156.525 MHz, AIS Channel 1: 161.975 MHz , AIS Channel 2: 162.025 MHz
VHF DSC Tx POWER OUTPUT| Nominal 1W EIRP
SIGNALLING TYPE| AIS and VHF-DSC
CONTROLS AND OPERATION|
AUTOMATIC WATER ACTIVATION| After 2 seconds of water sensor immersion
MANUAL ACTIVATION| Once armed, press and hold the activate button
GPS RECEIVER|
GNSS RECEIVER TYPE| GPS and Galileo
TTFF (TIME TO FIRST FIX)| 25 seconds (typical) with nominal GPS signal levels -130dBm
GNSS UPDATE RATE| Every minute
VHF DSC AND AIS ALERTS|
AIS| Within 30 seconds of GNSS position acquisition
INITIAL OPEN LOOP DSC ALERT| Within 30 seconds after activation
SUBSEQUENT OPEN LOOP DSC ALERTS| Every 5 minutes for the first 30 minutes, every 10 minutes thereafter until VHF-DSC acknowledgement received or the battery expires
FIRST DSC GPS DATA ALERT SENT| Immediately after GNSS position acquired
APPROVALS|
EUROPEAN APPROVALS| EN 303 132 V2.1.1
US APPROVALS| RTCM 11901.2*