sMRT VHF DSC CLASS-M ALERT AIS MOB Distress Beacon User Manual

: September 21, 2024
: SMRT

Table of Contents

sMRT VHF DSC CLASS-M ALERT AIS MOB Distress Beacon
Product Information
Product Usage Instructions
FAQ
INTRODUCTION
WHAT’S IN THE BOX?
DEVICE LABEL
HOW TO USE THE DEVICE
WARRANTY
DOCUMENTATION
SPECIFICATION
CONTACT
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

sMRT VHF DSC CLASS-M ALERT AIS MOB Distress Beacon

Product Information

This user manual provides all the information required to operate and test the sMRT ALERT. It is essential to read and understand the warnings and safety information before using the device.

Multi-system Personal Locating Device
Designed to RTCM Standard 11901.1 and EU standard EN 303 132
Integration of VHF DSC and AIS technologies
Transmits distress alerts and GPS positions
Short delay period to avoid accidental activation

Product Usage Instructions

Arming: Locate the arming switch and ensure it is in the correct position.
Activation: Follow the specified steps to activate the device during an emergency.
De-activation: To deactivate the device, follow the provided instructions.
Prevention of accidental activation: Be cautious to prevent accidental activation of the device.
Testing: Perform regular tests to ensure the device functions properly.
Recertification and servicing: Follow guidelines for recertification and servicing as needed.
Mobile application: Utilize the mobile application for additional features if available.

FAQ

What should I do before using the sMRT ALERT for the first time?
Prior to first use, ensure you have read and understood the user manual thoroughly. Perform a full system test as detailed.
Is it mandatory to register ownership of the sMRT ALERT?
Yes, as a responsible manufacturer, ownership registration is crucial for emergencies to provide contact details to SAR authorities.

INTRODUCTION

This user manual provides all the information required to operate and test the sMRT ALERT. 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 ALERT hardware features are displayed in bold upper case letters e.g. ARMING SWITCH.
Operation status are displayed in bold upper case letters with square brackets, e.g. [OFF].

USING YOUR sMRT ALERT 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.

WARNING: sMRT ALERT 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 ALERT should only be used in an emergency. DELIBERATE MISUSE MAY INCUR A SEVERE PENALTY.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS & ACRONYMS

WARNINGS & SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNINGS

The sMRT ALERT is a local area Maritime Survivor Locating Device (MSLD), that transmits emergency messages via VHF DSC 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 ALERT 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 ALERT should only be used in marine environments and is NOT for use on land.
The sMRT ALERT should ONLY be used in an emergency. DELIBERATE MISUSE MAY INCUR A SEVERE PENALTY.
Annual inspection and recertification of the sMRT ALERT by an authorised service partner is recommended every 12 months to ensure optimum performance.
The sMRT ALERT must be serviced by an authorised service partner every 5 years.
Do not dismantle the sMRT ALERT 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.
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 ALERT 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 ALERT contains lithium batteries; do not puncture, deform, short circuit, recharge or incinerate the sMRT ALERT. Doing so will VOID the product warranty.
Avoid handling the antenna unnecessarily when activated.
The sMRT ALERT 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., does not interfere with the operation of the sMRT ALERT.
The sMRT ALERT will not float, so please attach a lanyard restraint 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.
Do not put the device in the carry pouch when mounted in a life jacket.

CAUTIONS

Do not paint the sMRT ALERT 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 ALERT 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.
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 authorized service partner.

The sMRT ALERT is a multi-system Personal Locating Device designed to RTCM Standard 11901.1 and EU standard EN 303 132 for use during a man overboard (MOB) emergency.
The integration of VHF DSC and AIS technologies equips mariners in distress with
life-saving technology to vastly improve the likelihood of rapid location and recovery by a vessel or Search and Rescue (SAR) authorities.
HOW THE sMRT ALERT WORKS
The sMRT ALERT 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 ALERT transmits AIS and emergency VHF DSC transmissions during activation. The sMRT ALERT 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.

Audible Alarm

The audible alarm notifies when the unit is alerting and raises awareness in case of false activation

Test Functionality

Test functionality ensures that the device is in good working order and highlights any faults

Visual DSC Acknowledgement

LEDs indicate that the DSC distress signal has been received and acknowledged by a third-party

Class M

Compliant to European regulation ECC/DEC/(22)02 relevant to the usage of MOB devices

MOB Location via AIS

The location of the MOB is regularly updated and displayed on an AIS-enabled device.

Dual Activation Methods

The device can be activated manually or automatically upon immersion in water for more than 2 seconds

Dual GNSS Receivers

Dual GPS and Galileo GNSS receivers for accelerated location detection

Alert Signal via VHF DSC

All nearby vessels are automatically alerted to the man overboard situation via VHF DSC

WHAT’S IN THE BOX?

A: sMRT ALERT
B: 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 Switch
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 sensors are located both on the bottom and the top of the sMRT ALERT. The unit 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.
AIS – The location of the MOB is regularly updated and displayed on an AIS-enabled device.
VHF DSC – All nearby vessels are automatically alerted of the man overboard situation via DSC
Class M – Compliant to European regulation ECC/DEC/(22)02 relevant to the usage of MOB devices
GNSS – Combines both GPS & Galileo GNSS receivers for accelerated detection

HOW TO USE THE DEVICE

HOW TO ARM THE DEVICE

The beacon is shipped unarmed.
Begin by opening the DOOR COVER, which is located on the side of the beacon.
Then slide the ARMING SWITCH down to the [ARMED] position.
Finally, close the DOOR COVER to keep the switch securely in position.
We recommend that when not in use the device is [OFF].

HOW TO ACTIVATE THE DEVICE

To activate the sMRT ALERT 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 advised that the device be removed from any pouches and 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.
Simply acknowledge the VHF DSC alert on any radio that has received it. This will acknowledge the emergency but the beacon 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 canceled 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 ALERT 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 the ON BUTTON to activate the device.
If the device is accidentally activated, the user can slide the ARMING SWITCH to [OFF] before transmissions commence.
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 ALERT 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 authorized service partner.

TESTING
A full system test is performed on the sMRT ALERT, at the point of manufacture. Before first use, we recommend carrying out a full self-test on the product.
After deployment into active service, it is recommended that a full system test of the sMRT ALERT 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 recommended that the device be returned to an authorized service agent for annual service and recertification.

WARNINGS

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

SYSTEM TEST
To perform a test of the sMRT ALERT ensure the ARMING SWITCH is [OFF] and 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, the device should be removed from service and returned to MRT or an authorized service agent.

FULL SYSTEM TEST

The LED indicators show 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 — the LED indicator is purple.
The DSC test message is transmitted — the LED indicator changes to white.
The beacon waits for a DSC acknowledgment for up to 2 minutes — LED indicator is white
When a DSC acknowledgment is received the LED indicator turns green indicating [SUCCESS].

IMPORTANT NOTE: During any test, if a RED LED is displayed, the device should be removed from service and returned to the manufacturer or an authorized service agent. 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 under 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 authorized service agent.
CANCEL A FULL SYSTEM TEST
Press and hold the TEST BUTTON.

RECERTIFICATION AND SERVICING
We recommend annual recertification to ensure the sMRT ALERT operates effectively in a lifesaving situation. Do not use your sMRT ALERT if there are any signs of damage, or if any functional tests fail – RED LED. The manufacturer and authorized service agents provide a comprehensive service and repair facility for the 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 ALERT has an operational battery life of 5 years from the first use. When not in use, the product should be disarmed. We recommend annual recertification to ensure optimum performance.
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 product’s 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 ALERT units before shipping. It is the owner’s responsibility to advise MRT of any change of contact details or ownership of a sMRT ALERT.
If ownership is transferred, you should contact the manufacturer or an authorized service partner to register the device in your name.

sMRT MOBILE APP

The ‘sMRT Beacon Management’ app can assist you in managing your sMRT device. Please refer below for instructions on some of the key features.
CHECK BEACON STATUS
Quickly check the arming status of your device.

Press the BEACON STATUS BUTTON on the app home screen.
Press the SCAN DEVICE BUTTON on the NFC screen. When prompted, hold your phone up to the device and wait for the scan to complete.
Once complete, you will be shown a screen that will display the status of your beacon, which will either say [ARMED] or [OFF].

This feature only applies to the sMRT ALERT and may not work with other devices.
SELF-TEST DEVICE
Perform a test and view the historical results of your device. Please note that whilst the test is ongoing you can not use the NFC scanning function. This will take approximately 5 minutes and will then be ready to use.

Inside the product screen, press the TEST STATUS BUTTON.
Press the SCAN DEVICE BUTTON on the NFC screen. When prompted, hold your phone up to the device and wait for the scan to complete.
You will be prompted to complete the NFC process again; please repeat step 2.
Once completed, your most recent test will appear at the top of the list, with all your previous results below. It will display a colour-coded summary, with red indicating [FAILURE] and green indicating a [PASS].
You can inspect each test individually by pressing the arrow on the right of the tabs. This will provide you with a more detailed report of your test.

CHECK BATTERY LEVEL
View and understand your device’s current battery levels.

Inside the product screen, press the BATTERY STATUS BUTTON.
Press the SCAN DEVICE BUTTON on the NFC screen. When prompted, hold your phone up to the device and wait for the scan to complete.
You will be prompted to complete the NFC process again; please repeat step 2.
You will then be shown a screen, which will display the battery level of your device. The status shown will either say [GOOD] or [SERVICE REQUIRED], at which point you should NOT use the device.

If the battery test indicates less than 12 hours of battery life remaining, return the device to the manufacturer or an authorized service agent for battery replacement.
DO NOT ignore a low battery warning as the device may not operate to full capacity in a man-overboard emergency.
INPUT MMSI NUMBERS
Pair your vessel’s MMSI number with your device.

Inside the product menu screen, press the PAIRED MMSI BUTTON.
Press the SCAN DEVICE BUTTON on the NFC screen. When prompted, hold your phone up to the device and wait for the scan to complete.
Once completed, you will be directed to the Add Vessel MMSI screen. On first use, you will be prompted to type in your MMSI number and press the ADD BUTTON to pair your MMSI number.
The NFC screen will re-open and you will need to repeat step 2 twice. Once completed, your new MMSI number will show on screen and say [PAIRED].
If you wish to remove a paired number, simply press the BIN ICON and repeat step 2 twice. Please note you can only add 1 MMSI number to your device.

WARRANTY

Your sMRT ALERT is covered by a warranty against manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship for 1 year from the date of purchase and an additional 4 years upon registration of the extended warranty, under 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;

The water sensor pin

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 ALERT is an emergency rescue transmission device 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 ALERT 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 ALERT in no way reduces the 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 ALERT is designed to transmit distress alerts to VHF DSC and AIS-equipped vessels or stations within range, but requires subsequent human interaction to acknowledge and respond to the distress alert.
Satellite GPS 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.

DOCUMENTATION

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
STORAGE TEMPERATURE| -30° to +70°C (-22° to +158°F) as per IEC 60945
DIMENSIONS| 207mm (H) (including antenna) x 59mm (W) x 23mm (D)
WEIGHT| 180g
ENVIRONMENTAL| IEC 60945
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 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
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 radiated power 500mW
SIGNALLING TYPE| AIS and VHF-DSC
CONTROLS AND OPERATION|
AUTOMATIC WATER ACTIVATION| After 2 seconds of water sensor immersion
MANUAL ACTIVATION| Once armed, press the activate button
GPS RECEIVER|
GNSS RECEIVER TYPE| GPS and Galileo
TTFF (TIME TO FIRST FIX)| 15 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 acknowledgment or the battery expires.
FIRST DSC GPS DATA ALERT SENT| Immediately after the GNSS position acquired
APPROVALS|
EUROPEAN APPROVALS| EN 303 132 V2.1.1
US APPROVALS| RTCM 11901.1