406 GPS EPIRB

USER MANUAL
1 Recommendations and safety notices ................................................................2
2 Purpose ..................................................................................................................3
3 Description.............................................................................................................4
3.1 Wall bracket ......................................................................................................................4
3.2 Float-free enclosure ..........................................................................................................5
3.3 Manual EPIRB in enclosure ..............................................................................................6
4 Controls..................................................................................................................7
ON button ......................................................................................................................................7
4.2 READY button...................................................................................................................7
4.3 Sea switch.........................................................................................................................7
4.4 Lamps ...............................................................................................................................8
5 Operating procedure .............................................................................................9
5.1 Sinking ..............................................................................................................................9
5.2 Abandon ship ....................................................................................................................9
5.3 Releasing EPIRB from a wall bracket ...............................................................................9
5.4 Releasing EPIRB from an enclosure ..............................................................................10
5.5 Manual activation ............................................................................................................10
5.6 Deactivation ....................................................................................................................11
5.7 Battery condition .............................................................................................................11
5.8 Re-fitting EPIRB ..............................................................................................................11
6 False alarms .........................................................................................................13
6.1 Stand down rescue services ...........................................................................................13
6.2 De-activate the EPIRB ....................................................................................................13
6.3 Dealing with a transmitting EPIRB ..................................................................................14
7 Wall bracket installation......................................................................................15
7.1 Siting ...............................................................................................................................15
7.2 Mounting procedure ........................................................................................................15
8 Enclosure installation .........................................................................................17
8.1 Siting ...............................................................................................................................17
8.2 Mounting procedure ........................................................................................................17
8.3 Mounting instruction plate ...............................................................................................18
8.4 Marking HRU expiry ........................................................................................................18
8.5 Marking vessel name ......................................................................................................19
9 Registration..........................................................................................................20
9.1 Overview .........................................................................................................................20
9.2 How to register ................................................................................................................20
9.3 Warranty form .................................................................................................................21
9.4 Radio licence ..................................................................................................................21
9.5 Sale or transfer................................................................................................................21
10 Maintenance.........................................................................................................23
10.1 Monthly self-test & inspection .....................................................................................23
10.2 HRU replacement .......................................................................................................24
10.3 Battery replacement ....................................................................................................25
10.4 Servicing .....................................................................................................................25
10.5 Transportation .............................................................................................................25
10.6 GMDSS inspections....................................................................................................25
11 Fully disabling an EPIRB ....................................................................................27
12 Technical specification .......................................................................................28
13 Declaration of Conformity...................................................................................29
14 Appendix – Satellite Systems .............................................................................31
United States EPIRB registry system........................................................................33

1
1 RECOMMENDATIONS AND SAFETY
NOTICES

• This EPIRB is an emergency device for use only in grave

and imminent danger.

• False alarms cost lives and money. Help to prevent them;

understand how to activate and disable your equipment.

• Read the complete manual before installing, testing or

using the EPIRB.

• Ensure the EPIRB is registered with your local authorities

(Flag State nation).

• The EPIRB contains no user serviceable parts. Return to

your dealer for battery replacement or other service. Do
not open. Retain the original packaging.

• Dispose of this device safely. Contents include Lithium

batteries; do not incinerate, puncture, deform or short-
circuit.

• This device emits radio frequency radiation when

activated. Because of the levels and duty cycles, such
radiation is not classed as harmful; however, it is
advisable not to handle the antenna while the unit is
activated.

• It is advisable not to stare directly at the strobe.

2
2 PURPOSE
An Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is used to alert search and
rescue services in the event of an emergency. It does this by transmitting a coded
message on the 406MHz distress frequency. This message is relayed via satellite and
earth station to the nearest rescue co-ordination centre.
The satellite system is run by COSPAS-SARSAT, and is described in the Appendix.
With the geostationary satellite section being commissioned, the alerting delay is
reduced from typically 90 minutes to a few minutes within the geostationary satellite
coverage.
Instant alerting is good news, but they still need to know where you are. The advantage
of this type of EPIRB is that it has a built in GPS receiver, so within minutes of
activation it will have determined your latitude / longitude coordinates and will have
transmitted these to the rescue centre. The position fix is accurate to 60m*.
To operate properly the EPIRB needs a clear view of the whole sky. If its view is
blocked and it is unable to get a position fix, then the system defaults to using a polar
orbiting satellite to determine position. In this case, there is typically a 45 minute delay
before the position is known and the accuracy is limited to within 5km (3 miles). This is
the original system that standard (non-GPS) EPIRBs use. To get the full advantage of
the GPS type of EPIRB it is important to give it a clear view of the whole sky.
The EPIRB transmits a message that identifies the exact vessel to which it was
registered. Knowing which vessel is in distress allows the rescue services to eliminate
false alarms and launch an appropriate rescue.
The EPIRB also has a secondary distress transmitter. This transmits on 121.5MHz and
is used for “homing” purposes. When the rescue services get close, this allows them to
direction find on the signal. To cater for searches at night, the EPIRB has a bright
flashing light that aids final visual location.
Battery expiry date Antenna

Strobe Program point

Green lamp Red lamp

PRESS TO
TEST S ON button
E
READY A under here
L
button READY

Sea contacts

Lanyard

* If the programmed identity

is a Radio Call Sign (RCS)
then accuracy is limited to 5km

3
3 DESCRIPTION
The EPIRB is a powerful self-contained distress transmitter. It is powered by a light
weight Lithium battery that has a replacement interval of 5 years. An EPIRB is intended
to be a one-shot device; once activated it can operate for at least 48 hours. It operates
best while floating in water, but it can also be operated while on board or in a liferaft.
Referring to the previous figure, the key components of your EPIRB are as follows:
Antenna This is a flexible whip. It must be near vertical when
operating.
If the antenna gets bent, gently straighten it out.
Strobe light This is the glass U-tube visible through the clear lens dome.
When the EPIRB is activated this will flash every few
seconds.
Red lamp Visible through the clear lens dome at the rear of the
EPIRB.
This stays on or flashes to show you which mode you are in.
Green lamp This flashes when the GPS gets a position fix.
Program point A dimple in the clear dome, through which your supplier can
optically input the coded message unique to your EPIRB.
You must register the coded message with local authorities.
READY button Press this key once to de-activate the EPIRB. Hold it down
to run the built-in self-test, which checks basic operation.
ON button Press this key to activate the EPIRB manually. The key is
protected by a sliding door which is fitted with a tamper seal.
Sea switch The two screw heads below the keys are sea switch
contacts. Submerge these in water to automatically activate
the EPIRB.
Lanyard Pull the lanyard spool down to free it. Use the cord to tether
the EPIRB to a survival craft.
Never tie the EPIRB to your vessel.

3.1 Wall bracket

If you purchased the manually activated version (‘m’ suffix), this is normally supplied
with a wall mounting bracket (see section 7). The bracket is made from white plastic so
it will not rust. Its top section is sprung loaded, so that one simple squeeze will quickly
release the EPIRB allowing it to be carried to a liferaft. The wall bracket should be sited
in plain view near an emergency exit. This bracket is more than just a stowage point, it
contains a magnet which disarms the EPIRB’s sea switch. If you do not stow the EPIRB
in its bracket, there is a risk of the EPIRB activating if it gets wet.

4
3.2 Float-free enclosure
If you purchased the automatically activated version (‘a’ suffix), also known as the
“float-free” version, then your EPIRB is supplied in a plastic enclosure (see section 8).
This is much more than just a protective housing, it contains a sprung loaded lever
which automatically pushes the enclosure lid off and releases the EPIRB if your vessel
sinks. This automatic ejection is controlled by a device called a Hydrostatic Release
Unit (HRU). If the enclosure is submerged then before it reaches 4 metres (13 feet)
deep the HRU cuts a plastic rod that holds back the spring and the lid is ejected,
releasing the EPIRB which floats to the surface and switches on automatically.
The diagram below illustrates the automatic release sequence:
1. As the vessel sinks, the enclosure fills with water. The HRU contains a
blade which is released due to water pressure acting on a diaphragm.
Before it reaches a depth of 4 metres, the HRU will operate and cut the
plastic rod, releasing the coil spring.
2. The spring pushes the EPIRB and the enclosure lid outwards. As the lid
pivots off it disengages from the screw head that helped hold it in place.
The lid is weighted so it rolls over and falls away.
3. As the EPIRB floats away from the lid, it moves out of range of the
magnet. Once away from the magnet its sea switch becomes armed.
4. The sea switch activates. The EPIRB then floats on the surface with its
strobe light flashing. After 2 minutes it makes its first distress
transmission.

H
R 4) sea switch
U
activates

3) EPIRB arms once

Magnet away from magnet

1) HRU cuts rod

2) Lid ejects

If you need to activate your EPIRB manually, it can be freed from the enclosure after
pulling out the R-shaped retaining pin and removing the lid.

5
3.3 Manual EPIRB in enclosure
Customers who need to mount their EPIRB in an exposed position can select the
protective enclosure without an HRU fitted (‘c’ suffix). This means that the EPIRB will
not float free if your vessel sinks. This is known as a category 2 EPIRB. You can tell
which enclosure you have by reading the category from the front of the enclosure:
G4a/406a Category 1 HRU fitted Automatic float-free
G4c/406c Category 2 No HRU fitted Will not float free

6
4 CONTROLS
ON
4.1 ON button
This is hidden behind a sliding door, which protects it from accidental activation. The
sliding door has a tamper seal to show if the EPIRB has been activated.
The EPIRB can be activated manually by sliding the door to the left (breaking the seal)
and then momentarily pressing the ON button.
When activated the EPIRB will start to flash immediately. It will not make any distress
transmissions for 2 minutes. This gives you a chance to turn it off if you activated it
accidentally. During this 2 minutes the red lamp illuminates continuously. When the red
lamp starts to flash, the 2 minutes delay has passed and distress transmissions have
started. Normally the green GPS lamp will start flashing within the first 5 minutes.
HOLD TO
TEST

4.2 READY button

READY
This button de-activates the EPIRB and also tests the EPIRB.
Ready Pressing and releasing this button quickly will de-activate the EPIRB
and return it to its “ready” state. When the button is released the
strobe and the red & green lamps will stop flashing.
Self-test Pressing and holding the ready button (for about 10 seconds) will
allow the built-in self-test to run. When the button is held down the
red lamp will come on for 4 seconds, then go off. During this time
both the 121.5MHz homer and the 406MHz satellite transmitter make
“safe” transmissions. If both of these test transmissions arrive at the
antenna with sufficient power then the strobe light will flash 3 times to
tell you that all is well. If the red lamp does not come on, or the strobe
light does not flash within 10 seconds, then there is a fault; the
EPIRB should be taken to a service agent.

4.3 Sea switch

It is important to realise that the only time the EPIRB is completely off is when it is fitted
in its mounting bracket or enclosure. As soon as you take it out, a magnetic switch
activates and puts the EPIRB into its “ready” state. It will not drain the battery in this
state, but it will turn on automatically if the sea switch contacts are bridged by water.
The sea contacts are the two exposed screw heads beside the rear switches.
Although you can control the EPIRB manually with the READY and ON switches, the
sea switch overrides any manual settings. For the manual switches to operate properly
the EPIRB must first be dry so that the sea switch is de-activated.
To ensure the sea switch operates properly in rough seas, it has a built-in time delay. It
has to be wet for at least 2 seconds before it will activate and it has to be dry for at least
8 seconds before it will de-activate.

7
4.4 Lamps

4.4.1 Strobe
The strobe is the visual means of locating the EPIRB. When activated, the strobe
flashes 23 times per minute, with a pause during the time when the EPIRB is
transmitting.
The strobe is also used to indicate the result of a self test (see section 10.1).

4.4.2 Red lamp

The red lamp is used to indicate transmissions by the EPIRB. When activated, it flashes
alternately with the strobe to indicate a good transmission on 121.5MHz. Every 50
seconds it illuminates for 2 seconds to indicate a good transmission on 406MHz.
When the EPIRB is first activated the red lamp is illuminated continuously until the
EPIRB begins to transmit, when it begins to flash.
The red lamp is also used to indicate the result of a self test (see section 10.1).

4.4.3 Green lamp

The green lamp flashes to indicate that a valid position has been obtained by the GPS
receiver. Every 50 seconds it illuminates for 2 seconds to indicate that the position is
being transmitted on 406MHz.
Every 20 minutes the GPS receiver updates its position information. If a fix is not
obtained, the green lamp stops flashing, and illuminates only every 50 seconds (when
the previous position information is transmitted).
The green lamp is not used during self test.

8
5 OPERATING PROCEDURE
An EPIRB is a piece of life saving equipment. Its sole purpose is to call for help.
It must only be used in situations of grave and imminent danger.
Misuse can involve a severe penalty.

5.1 Sinking
If you have a category 1 “float-free” enclosure (see marking on enclosure label), then if
your vessel sinks, the EPIRB will automatically release itself from its enclosure before it
reaches a depth of 4 metres. The EPIRB will float to the surface and start to operate
because its sea switch is activated.
If possible, the EPIRB should be
recovered and tied (using its lanyard) to
one of the liferafts. An EPIRB is meant to
mark survivors, not the accident scene.
For best operation leave the EPIRB
floating in the sea near the liferaft. Do not
operate the EPIRB inside the liferaft or
under any cover.

5.2 Abandon ship

If the vessel is sinking and there is time to fetch the EPIRB then this should always be
done. Release the EPIRB from its mounting bracket as described in section 5.3 or 5.4
and carry it to one of the liferafts. Once the liferaft is in the water, uncoil the lanyard and
tie it to the liferaft, then throw the EPIRB overboard so that it floats next to the liferaft.
The EPIRB will operate because its sea switch will activate.

5.3 Releasing EPIRB from a wall bracket

If you have an EPIRB fitted into a wall bracket then follow the instructions below to
release it from the bracket:

1 Squeeze top until

it springs up

Pull
3 forward

Pull
Lift up to 4 down
free base 2
9
5.4 Releasing EPIRB from an enclosure
If your EPIRB is fitted inside a full enclosure then follow the instructions below to
release it manually from its enclosure:

Pull EPIRB
towards you

5.5 Manual activation

If the vessel is not sinking, but there is imminent danger, then remove the EPIRB from
its bracket and activate it manually as shown below. Note that once activated it will flash
immediately, but it will not transmit a distress call for 2 minutes. This gives you a
chance to turn it off if you activated it in error.
Slide cover to left
2 Breaking tamper seal

1
Locate 4
switches
on rear EPIRB
will flash

3 Press ON button

Once activated the EPIRB must have its antenna near upright and it must have a clear
view of the sky for proper operation. Lying it on its side or placing it next to a metal wall
will impair its range and may fail to alert the rescue services. Avoid handling the
antenna, as this will also impair performance.

10
5.6 Deactivation
If the EPIRB was activated by mistake or if
the emergency ends then the EPIRB can 1 Slide cover to right
be reset back to its “ready” state as follows:
• Remove EPIRB from any water and
dry its sea switch contacts.
Wait 8 seconds for sea switch to turn off.
If EPIRB is still flashing then it must have
been turned on manually: Press READY button
• Slide the switch cover fully to the 2 HOLD TO
TES T

right.
RE ADY
• Press and release READY button.
If EPIRB is still flashing then it has a fault.
Refer to section 6 on False Alarms.

5.7 Battery condition

If your EPIRB has been activated for a cumulative period in excess of 2 hours then its
battery will need replacing. This is necessary to ensure that the next time it gets used it
will operate for the full 48 hours required by government regulations. See section 10.3
for battery replacement instructions.

5.8 Re-fitting EPIRB

5.8.1 Refitting into wall bracket
The EPIRB is now in its “ready” state, but its sea switch is still armed and will activate if
it gets wet. To de-activate the EPIRB fully it must be returned to its mounting bracket,
where a magnet hidden in the bracket will make the EPIRB safe.
5.8.2 Push down
4 until clip locks
Insert
1 antenna

Push
2 backwards

Push firmly
3 into cup
11
Re-fitting into enclosure
• Offer EPIRB into backplate with switches facing outwards.
• Engage base of EPIRB into D shaped metal prongs.
• Antenna rests either to left or right of release pin.
• Check EPIRB is fully engaged in metal prongs and resting on foam pad.
• Refit cover by first locating release pin through hole in cover.
• Locate cover onto backplate, then snap down over locating lug.
• Refit R-clip through hole in end of release pin.

CAUTION
Failure to fit EPIRB
correctly may impair
its ability to float free
in an emergency

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6 FALSE ALARMS
False alarms are a serious problem for the rescue services. About 90% of EPIRB
initiated distress alerts turn out to be false alarms. If your EPIRB should cause a false
alarm, follow the instructions below.

6.1 Stand down rescue services

It is most important that you contact the nearest search and rescue authorities and tell
them it was a false alarm, so that they can stand down any rescue services. Use any
means at your disposal to make contact. Often this can be by VHF radio to the local
coastguard or mobile phone if you are within coastal range, but MF/HF DSC and
Inmarsat A, B, C, M may also be used. Useful contacts are:
Country Region Telephone What to report
USA Atlantic / Gulf of Mexico (212) 668 7055 EPIRB Unique ID (UIN)
Pacific (510) 437 3700 Date, time & duration
From any location (800) 323 7233 Cause of activation
UK From any location 01326 317 575 Location when activated

6.2 De-activate the EPIRB

If the EPIRB was activated by mistake, then de-activation is simple:
• Remove the EPIRB from any water and dry its sea switch contacts.
• Wait about 8 seconds for the sea switch to de-activate.
• If the EPIRB is still flashing then it must have been turned on manually
• Slide the switch cover fully to the right.
• Press and release the READY button.
• The EPIRB should now stop flashing.
• Refit the EPIRB correctly into its mounting bracket or enclosure.

Modern EPIRBs have sea switches and it is not uncommon for the sea switch to
activate in rough seas or heavy rain simply because the EPIRB has been badly fitted in
its mounting bracket. The EPIRB bracket has a hidden magnet to hold the EPIRB in an
off state. If the EPIRB is wrongly fitted the magnet does not do its job and heavy seas
may activate the sea switch. The simple cure is to ensure the EPIRB is correctly fitted
as shown in sections 5.8 or 5.8.2.

13
6.3 Dealing with a transmitting EPIRB
In the unlikely event that your EPIRB develops a fault and will not turn off, then prevent
its radio signal from reaching the satellite using one of the following methods:
• Remove the antenna. Wrap the EPIRB in metal foil and take it below
decks.
or
• Remove the antenna and place the EPIRB in a metal container or locker.
Take care when removing the antenna. Handle the antenna as little as possible.
Refer to Section 1 for warnings.

Leave the EPIRB in this condition for 3 days until its battery is dead. See section 10.4
for instructions on returning the EPIRB for servicing. See also section 11.

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7 WALL BRACKET INSTALLATION
7.1 Siting
The wall bracket should ideally be sited in plain view near an emergency exit. When
choosing a suitable mounting position you should also consider:
• Ease of access in an emergency.
• Mount at least 1 metre (3’) from any compass equipment.
• Allow at least 25mm (1”) above the bracket for it to spring open.
• Allow 18cm (7”) for the antenna. Heavy bending of the antenna is bad.

7.2 Mounting procedure

The wall bracket is supplied with a set of stainless steel fixings 25mm (1”) in length. The
bracket mounts against a flat surface using 4 fixing points. Offer the bracket into the
chosen position and mark through the mounting slots. If you are using the nuts and
bolts supplied, drill 6mm (1/4”) holes in the centre of each mark. You will need a 4mm
Allen key to tighten the bolts. If the rear of the mounting surface is inaccessible then
use the self-tapping screws supplied and drill 3mm (1/8”) holes. Always fit washers
under the heads of the screws to avoid damage to the plastic.

15
7.2.1 Mounting instruction plate
The EPIRB is supplied with an instruction plate. This is a rigid plate with basic visual
instructions for how to operate the EPIRB in an emergency. The plate varies slightly
depending on whether you have a wall bracket or a full enclosure. The wall bracket
version is illustrated below.

The instruction plate should be mounted next to the EPIRB so that it is easily visible in
an emergency. Use the four self-tapping screws supplied to mount the plate. Mounting
dimensions are shown in the diagram above, or you can use the plate itself at a drilling
guide for the screws. The recommended pilot hole size is 3mm maximum.

During vessel maintenance, ensure the plate does not get painted over or cleaned
down with strong degreasing solvents.

16
8 ENCLOSURE INSTALLATION
8.1 Siting
The enclosure should be mounted upright against a vertical bulkhead. Alternately, it
may be mounted horizontally on a flat surface, such as a cabin roof. No other
orientations are recommended.

If you have a float-free EPIRB it is critical that you choose a position where the released
EPIRB will not get trapped by overhangs, rigging, antennas etc, should the vessel
ever sink. An expanse of flat surface is required to allow the enclosure lid to eject. Use
the list below to choose a suitable mounting position:
• Mount on the outside of the vessel’s structure, as high as possible.
• Mount close to the vessel’s navigation position.
• Consider ease of access in an emergency.
AVOID:
• Positions with insufficient space for lid ejection and maintenance.
• Positions within 1m (3') of any compass equipment.
• Mounting within 2m (6') of any Radar antenna.
• Direct impact from waves
• Siting where damage is likely.
• Exhaust fumes, chemical and oil sources.

8.2 Mounting procedure

The enclosure mounts against a flat surface using 4 fixing points. See illustration for
mounting dimensions, or use the backplate of the enclosure as a marking guide. To do
this, pull out the R-shaped clip and remove the enclosure lid. Note how the EPIRB fits
then remove it to somewhere dry (its sea switch is now armed).
Offer the back plate into the chosen position and mark through the mounting holes. The
enclosure is supplied with a set of 25mm (1”) stainless steel fixings. If you are using the
17
nuts and bolts, drill 6mm (1/4”) holes where you have marked. You will need a 4mm
Allen key to tighten the bolts. If the rear of the mounting surface is inaccessible, use the
self-tapping screws supplied. Always fit washers under heads of the screws to avoid
damaging the plastic.

OBSTRUCTION FREE AREA

0.8m x 0.5m (32" x 20")

44mm
(1.73")
150mm
(5.9")

440mm
(17.3")

104mm
84mm (3.3") (4.1")

150mm 140mm
(5.9") (5.5")

8.3 Mounting instruction plate

The EPIRB is supplied with a rigid plate giving visual instructions on how to operate the
EPIRB in an emergency. Mount this next to your EPIRB as explained in section 7.2.1.

8.4 Marking HRU expiry

If you are installing a float-free EPIRB you must now mark the HRU expiry date. The
HRU has a 2 year in-service life which starts as soon as it gets exposure to a marine
environment. Hence the 2 years starts at installation and it is left to the customer to
mark this date during installation. A date 2 years into the future should be marked on
the HRU body and copied onto the label on the side of the enclosure. The HRU is
marked by cutting out the corresponding dates on its label. The enclosure should be
marked using the alpha-numeric stickers provided, then covering them with the clear

18
sticky label provided (but see 8.5 first). The preferred date format is month and year, for
example : JUN 2003.

8.5 Marking vessel name

In most countries it is usual to have your EPIRB programmed by your supplier with the
vessel’s existing “callsign” (see registration section below). Your supplier will then mark
all the EPIRB labels accordingly. However, if your EPIRB was purchased in the USA,
Canada or UK then your EPIRB will have all the necessary markings except for vessel
name. In these countries it is left to the customer to mark the vessel name during
installation.
The name must be marked on the rear of the EPIRB itself and also on the enclosure, if
you have one. Use the alpha-numeric stickers provided to mark the vessel name (or its
abbreviation) on the top line of the EPIRB’s rear label and again on the enclosure label.
Protect the markings with a section of the clear sticky label provided.

You must register your EPIRB with the appropriate authorities.

Failure to register may slow the rescue and lead to loss of life.
In the USA failure to register leads to monetary forfeit.
In the UK you are legally required to register your EPIRB.

IMPORTANT: The United States registration system has changed.

Refer to Page 31 for information.

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9 REGISTRATION
9.1 Overview
Every EPIRB is pre-programmed with a unique identity before it reaches the customer.
This is done by the manufacturer or in some cases the distributor. The identity includes
a 3 digit country code. This is the country that takes responsibility for storing that
particular EPIRB’s registration details. In most cases this is the country to which the
vessel is flagged. The country programmed into your EPIRB can be found from its rear
identity label. You must register with this country.

Unique MV BELLANA
EPIRB 1 Vessel
Identity
Number 1D1400063F81FE0
FLAG 232 G BRITAIN
SERIALISED 000012 Country
CATEGORY 1 – AUTO
Class 2 –20/+55 C (-4/+131 F)

When you activate your EPIRB in an emergency, the nearest maritime search and
rescue coordination centre (MRCC) will receive the message and decode the country
code (eg 232). They will then access the registration database for that country and
expect to find details of your vessel, its radio equipment and who to contact. If they fail
to find this information, this may slow down any rescue.
9.2 How to register
Three registration forms are provided, two are for future use and one must be
completed now. The forms are all pre-printed with your EPIRB’s identity, all you have to
do is complete details of your vessel and provide some contact numbers. Wherever
possible the forms are also pre-printed with the correct mailing address and a faxback
number. If your form does not have a mailing address, contact your supplier. When you
have completed the form, you can choose to fax it or mail it.
IMPORTANT: The registration system in United States has changed. See Page 31.
It is usual to receive confirmation when you register. In the UK and USA you will also
receive a “Decal” sticker which you must fit to the E3 itself. The Decal is proof of
registration. Not having a Decal is an offence.
Useful registration contacts are:
USA Sarsat Beacon Registration UK EPIRB Registry
E/SP3, RM3320, FB-4 HM Coastguard (Southern)
NOAA, 5200 Auth Road Pendennis Point, Castle Drive
Suitland MD 20746-4304 Falmouth TR11 4WZ
Tel 888 212 7283 Fax 301 568 8649 Tel 01326 211569 Fax 01326 319264

20
9.3 Warranty form
Please complete the warranty form supplied and fax or mail it to McMurdo. Failure to do
this may delay any future warranty claim.

9.4 Radio licence

An EPIRB is a radio transmitter and must therefore be added to your radio licence. If
you have been allocated a radio callsign, then you already have a radio licence for your
VHF or MF radio set. You should update your licence to include your EPIRB. For further
details see your licence or use these contact numbers:
USA FCC Tel : 888 225 5322 Website : www.fcc.gov\Forms\Form506\506.pdf
UK Ship Radio Licensing, Radio Licensing Centre, The Post Office, PO Box 1495
Bristol BS99 3QS Tel: 0870 243 4433 Fax: 0117 975 8911
Minicom: 0117 921 9550 Website: www.radiolicencecentre.co.uk/

9.5 Sale or transfer

EPIRBs registered in the USA, Canada, UK and Australia do not need to be re-
programmed when transferred to a new vessel. Simply complete another registration
form to inform the authorities of the transfer. Use one of the spare forms provided or
contact McMurdo for a blank form. (See warranty section for address).
For most other countries, the EPIRB must be re-programmed with either the new
vessel’s Maritime Mobile Station Identity (MMSI) or its radio callsign, whichever is
required by the country controlling the new vessel.
Since the EPIRB identity contains a country code, it follows that changing the flag state
of the vessel also means the EPIRB must be re-programmed.
Programming can be carried out at McMurdo or any of our designated agents. For
details of your nearest agent, either contact McMurdo using the details in the warranty
section, or visit the McMurdo web site at www.mcmurdo.co.uk.

9.5.1 Mandatory information for Oceania

Advice to owners of Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons:
Registration of 406MHz satellite Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB) with the
EPIRB Registration Section of the NA is mandatory because of the global alerting nature of the
system.
The information provided in the registration card is used only for rescue purposes.
Fill in the owner registration card immediately on completion of the sales transaction. Mail the
registration card immediately.
If the beacon is to enter service immediately, complete the registration card and fax the
information to the NA. The original card must still be mailed to the NA for hard-copy reference and
filing.
If the current owner is transferring the beacon to a new owner, the current owner is required to
inform the NA by letter, fax or telephone of the name and address of the new owner.
The subsequent owner of the beacon is required to provide the NA with the information shown on
the owner registration card. This obligation transfers to all subsequent owners.

21
NA is the Australian Maritime Safety Authority or the Maritime Safety Authority of New Zealand, as
appropriate. Respective fax numbers are 06 257 2036 (Australia) and 04 382 6482 (NZ).

22
10 MAINTENANCE
10.1 Monthly self-test & inspection
As an important item of safety equipment, your EPIRB should be checked regularly.
The EPIRB has a built-in test capability that can be used as a confidence check. This
self-test confirms that the battery is healthy, that the GPS receiver and both of the
distress transmitters are functional and that the strobe light is operational. The self-test
should be performed monthly, but not more frequently. It should be performed during
the first 5 minutes of the hour, to minimise disturbance on the emergency channel.
If your EPIRB is in an enclosure it can be tested through the test window without having
to remove the EPIRB from the housing. If you have a bracket mounted EPIRB it will
have to be removed from the bracket as described in section 5.3. The procedure for
self-testing is as follows:
• On rear of EPIRB press and hold the READY button.
• The red lamp will come on for 4 seconds to confirm test in progress.
• When the red lamp goes out, the strobe lamp must flash 3 times (at
least).
• If the strobe does not flash, or the red lamp illuminate, repeat the test then
see section 10.4.
During these monthly checks you should take the opportunity to visually inspect the
EPIRB and its mountings for deterioration or damage.
On the EPIRB itself check the following:
• Inspect the EPIRB for any obvious damage.
• Check there is no sign of water inside the unit.
• Check that the lanyard is not tied to the vessel structure.
• Check the battery is within its expiry date.
If you have a wall bracket:
• Confirm the bracket top clip springs up when squeezed.
• Check the EPIRB is correctly fitted and secure in its bracket.
If you have an enclosure:
Check the HRU is within its expiry date (category 1 only).
Confirm the cover can be manually removed with ease.
Ensure the EPIRB base is correctly fitted into the D-shaped prongs.
If the EPIRB or its mounting needs cleaning then this should be done using warm soapy
water and a damp (not wet) cloth. Do not use strong detergents or solvents.
Do not paint the EPIRB or its mounting
Do not clean with detergents or solvents
During vessel cleansing or painting remove the EPIRB and its mounting.
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10.2 HRU replacement
If you have an EPIRB in an enclosure marked Category 1 then it contains a Hydrostatic
Release Unit (HRU). This has a 2 year replacement interval. The expiry date, which is
marked on the HRU and on the enclosure side label should be checked regularly.
When the HRU expires you can obtain a replacement at a local chandler, or direct from
McMurdo at the address shown on the warranty page. McMurdo will supply an HRU kit
(Part No. 82-210B) complete with breakable plastic rod, date labels and instruction
sheet. At a chandler you should ask for a Pains Wessex “Breakthrough HRU with an
EPIRB kit”. The HRU replacement procedure is as follows:
• On the enclosure, remove the R-clip and pull the cover slowly off.
• Remove the EPIRB and stow it in a dry place. It will activate if wet.
• Hold down the metal lever arm to take up the force of the spring.
• Push the HRU back then upwards out of the slot in the lever arm.
• When the rear clip disengages slowly release the lever arm.
• The HRU with its breakable rod can now be lifted free and replaced.
• Using pliers, remove the rear E-clip and slide off the old HRU.
• Fit the new HRU over the new rod, with its label facing outward.
• Refit the washer and the rear E-clip. Ensure rod moves freely.
• Mark the HRU with an expiry date 2 years into the future.
• Slide the HRU into the slot in the lever arm and push lever arm down.
• Engage rear washer into backplate by pushing back and sliding down.
• Look under the spring and check that the washer is fully engaged.
• Slide EPIRB into D-shaped foot on lever arm, switches outermost.
• Refit cover by engaging hole over rod and then snapping into place.
• Refit R-clip through top of rod.
• On side of cover, remove old HRU expiry date and mark new date.

Fitting HRU
Spring

Washer HRU

Rear E-clip 1

2
Breakable rod

Engage
washer here Lever arm

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10.3 Battery replacement
The EPIRB uses a 9V Lithium battery pack, McMurdo type 82-570. Typically this will
have to be replaced every 5 years. The exact battery expiry date is marked on the rear
of the EPIRB lens dome and if you have a full enclosure it is also marked on the outside
of the enclosure. The battery expiry date should be checked regularly. You will need to
replace the battery when:
• The expiry date has been reached or
• The EPIRB has been used in an emergency situation or
• A false activation exceeds 2 hours of use.
The battery is a one shot device. It is not rechargeable or user replaceable. Battery
replacement must be carried out by a McMurdo approved service agent. Lithium
batteries have special disposal requirements. Never incinerate a Lithium battery. Never
dispose of one at sea. Your service agent will deal with battery disposal.

10.4 Servicing
All servicing must be carried out by a McMurdo approved service agent. Always call
your nearest agent and talk to their service department before returning suspect
equipment. You can find your nearest service agent from:
• The McMurdo web site: www.mcmurdo.co.uk
• Contacting McMurdo direct (see warranty page).
• Contacting a McMurdo distributor
If the EPIRB has to be returned, the original packaging should be used if possible.

10.5 Transportation
Because it contains a Lithium battery, the EPIRB may have special transportation
requirements depending on local and international regulations in force at the time.
The battery pack contains approx 10.5gm of Lithium (each battery pack contains 3 cells
with 3.5 gm of Lithium in each).
Transport the EPIRB in compliance with applicable regulations for this weight of
hazardous material.
For further information refer to the McMurdo website www.mcmurdo.co.uk

10.6 GMDSS inspections

If your vessel is subject to GMDSS regulations then you can expect to get regular visits
from ship surveyors enforcing national legislation. They will check the expiry dates and
activate the EPIRB to prove that it really works and they will read the identity message
stored inside the EPIRB to check that you have registered it properly. Leisure vessels
are not subject to these inspections. However, in some countries passenger and fishing
vessels are covered by the legislation.

25
26
11 FULLY DISABLING AN EPIRB
In the unlikely event that your EPIRB refuses to turn off then it may have a fault.
Procedures for dealing with a faulty EPIRB are covered in section 6 on false alarms; in
simple terms you should do the following:
• De-activate the EPIRB as described in section 6.2
• Suppress its signal by removing the antenna and wrapping the EPIRB in
metal foil, as described in section 6.3
• Leave for 3 days until the battery is used up.
We do not recommend any other course of action. However, if it is absolutely
necessary to fully disable an EPIRB (by unplugging its battery), proceed as follows.
This is a dangerous task and should only be performed by a qualified technician.
WARNING: Risk of electric shock. Proceed at your own risk, no liability accepted.
• Take the EPIRB below decks into the dry.
• Locate a flat bladed screwdriver with a long reach.
• Unscrew and retain the front 4 sealing screws.
• Pull the lanyard out and remove the 2 hidden rear screws.
270V DC
• Do not as yet remove the sea contact screws.
• Lift the lens dome off. Remove and retain the grey gasket.
• Avoid touching the circuit board and the glass strobe tube.
• Hold the hexagon shaped pillars and remove the sea screws.
• Use a cross-headed screwdriver to remove the front screw.
• Grip the white plastic coil former and lift the circuit board up 3cm (1”).
• Using fingers, unplug the white 4-way battery connector.
• The flashing will now cease.
• Collect all the parts and return them to your nearest service agent.

Pull up on DANGER - HIGH VOLTAGE

coil former Strobe
Lens dome

Hex Front screw

pillar

Sea
screws

Battery Gasket
connector Circuit
Hidden board
Front
screws sealing
screws

27
12 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
406MHz Transmitter Operating frequency 406.028 MHz +1kHz
Power output 5W typical
Modulation Phase (16K0GID)
121.5MHz Homer Operating frequency 121.5 MHz +3.5kHz
Power output 50mW radiated typical
Modulation Swept tone AM (3K20A3X)
GPS Receiver Centre frequency 1.57542GHz
Sensitivity -175dBW minimum
Satellites tracked 12 max
Strobe light Type Xenon discharge tube
Light output 0.75 Candela minimum
Flash rate 23 flashes per minute
Battery Type Lithium manganese dioxide
Operating life 48 hours minimum
Shelf life 5 years typical in service
Environment Operating temperature -20°C to +55°C (class 2)
Storage temperature -30°C to +70°C
Automatic release depth 4 metres max. (13 feet)
Physical Weight 770 grams (1.7 lb)
Height of body 21 cm (8.2 inches)
Length of antenna 18 cm (7 inches)
Approvals Satellite system Cospas-Sarsat T.001/T.007
Europe ETS-300-066
Marine Equipment Directive
USA USCG / FCC approved
FCC ID : KLS-82-501
Worldwide IEC1097-2
Meets IMO regulations A662(16) A694(17)
A810(19) A814(19)

This device complies with the GMDSS provisions of part 80 of the FCC rules.
The GPS module complies with the relevant sections of IEC1108-1:1996.

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13 DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

29
A Declaration of Conformity to the Marine Equipment Directive is available on request.
30
14 APPENDIX – SATELLITE SYSTEMS
COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system
The COSPAS-SARSAT system provides distress alert and location information to
search and rescue authorities anywhere in the world for maritime, aviation and
terrestrial users in distress.
There are two satellite arrays carrying the COSPAS-SARSAT system. The principal
array is LEOSAR (Low Earth Orbit Search and Rescue) which has seven satellites in
polar and near-polar orbits. The orbits of these satellites are arranged to scan the entire
surface of the Earth; on average, a satellite comes into view every 45 minutes.

LEOSAR satellite path and scan footprint

Distress transmissions from EPIRBs are picked up by the satellites and retransmitted to
ground receiving stations, which then pass the message to the appropriate rescue
organisation. On average, the total delay from activation of an EPIRB to the message
being received by the rescue services is 90 minutes.
COSPAS-SARSAT is in an advanced stage of commissioning the second satellite
array, GEOSAR (Geostationary Search and Rescue). This array uses geostationary
satellites which are always in view (over their area of coverage), so that reception of the
EPIRB signal is
instantaneous.

GEOSAR coverage
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Global Positioning System (GPS)
The GPS system is a satellite array which enables a receiver located anywhere on
Earth to determine its exact position, usually to within 100m.
The array uses 24 satellites (plus spares) orbiting the Earth in six orbital planes, four
satellites per plane, as shown below. These are arranged so that at least five satellites
are within range of any receiver (which can be anywhere) at all times.

GPS satellite orbital planes

Each satellite transmits information which enables its position and distance from the
receiver to be calculated. By combining these data for multiple satellites, the exact
position of the receiver can be determined.

Operation of GPS receiver

Owner’s Notes: (size exaggerated for clarity)

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UNITED STATES EPIRB REGISTRY SYSTEM

Important information
Beacon registration is now available on-line.
This is the preferred method of registration; point your browser to
http://www.beaconregistration.noaa.gov
and follow the instructions on-screen.
Use the EPIRB form.

Other Information
At present, NOAA still accepts registration by mail or fax. The registration forms are
pre-printed with the correct mailing address and fax number. A registration form may be
downloaded from the website given above.

However you register the beacon, you will be sent a sticker which must be attached to
the beacon.

Emergency Contact
It is VITAL that the Emergency Contact information is accurate, particularly regarding
the telephone number, as this will be used to validate an alert. Only if the beacon
registration and approximate location details can be confirmed will USCG (United
States Coast Guard) launch an immediate rescue, otherwise there will be a delay whilst
further alerts from the same source are received and verified.

Registration address:
NOAA SARSAT Beacon Registration
E/SP3, RM 3320, FB-4
5200 Auth Road
Suitland MD 20746-4304

FAX: 301-568-8649

Helpline: 301-457-5678 or toll-free: 1-888-212-SAVE (7283).

33
Owner’s notes:

34
McMurdo Limited Product Warranty
Subject to the provisions set out below McMurdo Limited warrants that this product will be free of
defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 24 months from the date of purchase.

McMurdo Limited will not be liable to the buyer under the above warranty:-
• for any defect arising from fair wear and tear, wilful damage, negligence, abnormal working
conditions, failure to follow McMurdo Limited's instructions (whether oral or in writing)
including a failure to install properly and/or to use batteries recommended and/or supplied by
McMurdo Limited, misuse or alterations or repair of the product by persons other than
McMurdo Limited or an Approved Service Agent;
• for parts, materials or equipment not manufactured by McMurdo Limited in respect of which
the buyer shall only be entitled to the benefit of any warranty or guarantee given by the
manufacturer to McMurdo Limited;
• for the battery storage life which is specifically excluded from this warranty;
• if the total price for the product has not been paid.

McMurdo Limited does not make any other promises or warranties (express, implied or statutory)
about the product except where the product is sold to a consumer in which case the statutory
rights of a consumer are not to be affected.

In order to be valid, claims must be made under the above warranty in writing as soon as
practicable after discovery of the defect or failure and within the warranty period referred to above.
Proof of purchase will be required. The claim should be sent together with the product in question
to the address set out below or to an Approved Service Agent.

Following a valid warranty claim McMurdo Limited shall be entitled to repair or replace the product
(or part) in question free of charge, or at McMurdo Limited's sole discretion to refund to the buyer
the price of the product (or a proportional part of the price). McMurdo Limited shall not be liable to
a buyer who is not a consumer for any other loss or damage (whether indirect, special or
consequential loss of profit or otherwise) costs, expenses or other claims for compensation which
arise out of or in connection with this product. In the case of a consumer McMurdo Limited shall
only be liable where other loss or damage is foreseeable.

Nothing shall limit McMurdo Limited's liability for death or personal injury caused by its negligence.

This warranty is to be interpreted under English law.

All enquiries relating to this warranty or Approved Service Agents should be sent to:

McMurdo Limited
Silver Point, Airport Service Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO3 5PB UK
Telephone: Int + 44 (0) 23 9262 3900 Fax: Int + 44 (0) 23 9262 3998
Web: www.mcmurdo.co.uk Email: [email protected]

Record Serial No. (visible through dome) : _______________________

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 36

82-569-001 Issue 7