Please note that a 406 MHz Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is not a subsitute for a 406 MHz EPIRB.
The obsolete 121.5/243 MHz analogue COSPAS SARSAT service was terminated in February 2009 and now, only the 406 MHz digital beacon signals are being processed by the satelites. Consumers have for some time recognised the major benefits of a 406 MHz over a 121.5 MHz device in faster, more accurate detection, personal identification of each beacon, reduced search area resulting in a faster more targeted response in a life threatening situation. However the prohibitive cost of 406 MHz beacons has always been an issue.
Today with cutting edge microprocessor technology, GME’s engineers have been able to provide the outdoor adventurer with a 406 MHz PLB solution that is not only affordable, but provides enhanced peace of mind for boaters, bush walkers, 4 x 4 enthusiasts and aviators should they ever require emergency assistance.
GME has been designing and manufacturing emergency beacons in Australia for over 30 years. In that time literally hundreds of lives have been saved in Australia and around the world.
Features
- Fitted with NON-HAZMAT long life batteries
- Featherweight, compact and robust construction
- 50 search channel GPS receiver for better than 100 meter accuracy
- Digital 406 MHz, 5 Watt transmission plus 121.5 MHz homing signal
- 7 year battery life
- COSPAS-SARSAT worldwide operation
- 7 year warranty
- National and International approvals
- Typical accuracy (with GPS) <100m
- Sealed waterproof design (exceeds IP67)
- High visibility flashing light
- Retention strap and fully buoyant design reduces risk of loss
- Unique patented technology – no warm up period
- Complete with protective carry pouch
Specifications
| MODES OF OPERATION |
| Activated |
UHF (406) and VHF (homer) complete with high intensity light and audible alert |
| Self Test |
Comprehensive internal diagnostics with visual and audible operator feedback. UHF test message (inverted synchronization compatible with portable beacon testers). GPS satellite acquisition test. |
| OPERATION |
| Activation |
Automatically when antenna deployed |
| Duration |
In excess if 24 hours at -20˚C; longer at higher ambient temperatures |
| Transmission |
121.5 and 406 MHz |
| Delay |
60 seconds to deactivate prior to distress transmission |
| Warm Up |
None required (due to patented digital frequency generation) |
| VHF |
121.5 MHz; 50 mW ± 3 dB; swept tone AM (analogue) |
| UHF |
406.028 MHz; 5 W ± 2 dB; PSK (digital) |
| Light |
> 20 flashes/minute at; 2 x high intensity white LED |
| COPAS-SARSAT |
| Certified to C/S T.001 (Class 2) requirements |
|
| UHF-Protocol/Data |
Supports all short and long operation protocols (re-programmable by Distributor) |
| Repetition Period |
50 s mean |
| VHF |
Satellite compatible phase coherent |
| BATTERY |
| Replacement Period |
Prior to expiry date marked on case – (7 yrs) or after use |
| Replacement Method |
Service centre or factory only (non-user replaceable) |
| Chemistry |
LiMnO2 (0.49 g Lithium per cell) |
| Configuration |
2 electronically isolated batteries consisting of 2 cells type CR17345 |
| PHYSICAL |
| Operating |
-20˚C to +55˚C |
| Storage |
-30˚C to +70˚C |
| Weight |
250g |
| Compass Safe Distance |
0.1m (for minimal deflection) |
| Dimensions |
71 (W) x 135 (H) x 38 (D) mm |
| Buoyant |
Will float in fresh/salt water (RTM Cat 1) |
| Waterproof |
Submersion to 1m exceeds IP67 |
| Materials |
High visibility yellow chassis with translucent cap. UV stabilised high impact plastic chassis with energy absorption over-moulded bumpers. |
| GPS RECEIVER |
| Type |
Ultra high sensitivity L1 frequency C/A |
| 50 search channel 8192 time/frequency search windows |
| Antenna |
Dielectrically loaded quadrifilar helix |
| Acquisition |
Cold start 34 seconds typically; hot start <3.5 seconds typical |
| Position |
Located to within 45m typical |
| OTHER FEATURES |
| Standards and Approvals |
AS/NZS 4280.2; ETSI EN 302 152-1 (CE0168!); RTCM 76-2002/SC110; FCC ID: TXJMT410-G |
| Transport |
Meets UN requirements for transport as non-hazardous cargo on board passenger aircraft |
| Antenna |
Flexible self-straightening and robust wire rope design. Marine grade 316 Stainless Steel. |
| *All specifications are typical and subject to change without notice or obligation |
