PRODUCT

SUPPORT
MANUAL
Y1-03-0148
Rev. A

TM
Satellite2 406 and
TM
RapidFix 406

Emergency Position
Indicating Radio Beacon
FCC Type Accepted

Product No. 2774 Cat. I

Product No. 2775 Cat. II
Product No. 2776 Cat. I, GPS
Product No. 2777 Cat. II, GPS

Owner

Vessel

Radio CallSign

ACR Electronics, Inc.

5757 Ravenswood Road
Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33312
+1(954) 981-3333 • Fax +1 (954) 983-5087
http://www.acrelectronics.com
Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
1Email: Info@acrelectronics.com
 * * * WARNING * * *
THIS TRANSMITTER IS AUTHORIZED FOR USE
ONLY DURING SITUATIONS OF GRAVE
AND IMMINENT DANGER

DELIBERATE MISUSE MAY

INCUR A SEVERE PENALTY
Advice to owners of Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs)

Registration of 406 MHz satellite EPIRB with the EPIRB Registration Section of
the national authority* 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 upon 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 national authority. The original card must still be mailed
to the national authority* 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 national authority* by letter, facsimile or telephone, of the
name and address of the new owner.
The subsequent owner of the beacon is required to provide the national authority*
with the information as shown on the owner Registration Card.
This obligation transfers to all subsequent owners.
*National Authority
The term “national authority” appears throughout this manual. Wherever these
words appear, reference is made to the government body responsible for EPIRB
registration for the country in which the vessel is registered. The addresses for
various national authorities can be found on the Registration Card appropriate for
your vessel.
The national authority in the U.S.A. is NOAA. The NOAA registration telephone
no. is 1-888-212-7283 (toll free).

Note: In the U.S.A. please use the enclosed FCC FORM 506 to modify your
radio station license if necessary. For information on whether you need a
radiostation license, call 1-888-CALLFCC (toll free)

2 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
SECTION 1 - THE SYSTEM

1.1 GENERAL

1.1.1 This manual provides installation, operation and maintenance in-

structions for the Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 Emergency
Position Indicating Radio Beacon, hereinafter referred to as the
Beacon. This section describes the characteristics and details of the
Beacon System. The FCC authorizes the use of 406 MHz Radio
Beacons by any ship that is also equipped with a VHF Ship Station.
This will make the 406 MHz Radio Beacon available for use on
most U.S. ships and boats. EPIRB carriage requirements are con-
tained in USCG regulations.

1.2 PURPOSE

1.2.1 The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 Beacon provides distress
alerting via radio transmission on 406 MHz to satellites of the
COSPAS-SARSAT network. The RapidFix™ 406 can also trans-
mit a distress alert to the GEOSAR network that includes GPS
latitude and longitude coordinates that are inputted through an I/R
Interface that connects to the data output of a GPS Receiver.

1.2.2 The message transmitted by the Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™

406 is unique for each EPIRB, which provides identification of the
transmitter through computer access of registration files maintained
by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or other
national authority. It is the user’s responsibility to fill out and
mail the enclosed registration form to the appropriate agency of
the country under which the vessel is registered. US flagged
vessels send the enclosed NOAA/NESDIS form to NOAA in the
stamped envelope provided. For vessels registered in other coun-
tries, the Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 must be repro-
grammed by an ACR authorized programming facility for the
registered country. Remember, if your EPIRB is not registered,
SAR Authorities do not know who you are, what type of vessel, your
homeport, or where to contact anyone who might know anything
about your situation.

1.2.3 Once the Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 signal (406 MHz),
relayed through the COSPAS-SARSAT and/or GEOSAR network

3 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
 alert Search and Rescue (SAR) forces, they can converge on
the GPS navigation position (RapidFix™ 406 only) or the
position estimated by the satellite. When a RapidFix™ 406
with GPS interface is used

SAR authorities can know your precise location immediately

and speed up reaction time. The Satellite2™ 406 and Rapid-
Fix™ 406 on board radio beacon transmitter (121.5 MHz) and
high intensity xenon strobe light aid intermediate and short-
range location.

1.2.4 Product numbers 2774 and 2776 (Category 1 Satellite2 ™ 406

and Category 1 RapidFix™ 406) may be deployed and acti-
vated automatically by the built-in hydrostatic float free re-
lease. Once free from the release bracket, the Satellite2 ™ 406
and RapidFix™ 406 will automatically turn on if the water
sensors are wet.

1.2.5 Alternately, the Satellite2 ™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 can be

manually activated by lifting the thumb switch to a vertical
position, sliding it toward the antenna and pushing back down
to the opposite side of the EPIRB. Activating the beacon in
this manner breaks off the "Activation Indicator Plastic Pin"
and allows the switch to properly seat, showing the " z "
symbol (ON).

1.2.6 Self contained long life batteries with a five-year recommended

replacement cycle provide power. See Factory Authorized
Service Center for replacement (Section 4.0 – Maintenance).

1.2.7 Self-test is initiated by momentarily lifting the thumb switch to

a vertical position and holding it in this position for at least one
second. A beep and the simultaneous lighting of the green and
red LED’s indicate the initiation of the test. The buzzer will
beep three times as both the red and green LED's light simulta-
neously. The green LED will then light, followed by a flash of
the strobe, indicating a successful test. During self-test, an
actual satellite message is transmitted while certain key perfor-
mance parameters are measured and recorded. The self-test
message is modified to prevent the satellite from forwarding an
alert message during self-test.

4 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
1.2.8 Following self test, the RapidFix™ 406 (if GPS data has been
acquired), will beep and simultaneously light the green and red
LED's, to indicate GPS data has been stored in the Beacon.
This GPS data would be included in the transmitted message if
the Beacon were to be activated. (See Section 3.7)

1.3 SATELLITE DETECTION

1.3.1 The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 transmits an en-

coded phase modulated radio signal to the satellite portion of
the COSPAS-SARSAT System. The system was developed and
implemented by the COSPAS-SARSAT Partners (Russian Fed-
eration, Canada, France and the United States).

1.3.2 COSPAS-SARSAT is an international system that uses Rus-

sian Federation and United States low altitude, near-polar
orbiting satellites that assist in detecting and locating activated
121.5/243 MHz EPIRBs and 406 MHz Satellite EPIRBs. The
Russian Federation provides aboard COSMOS navigation
spacecraft COSPAS payloads that are inter-operable with the
SARSAT System. In addition to weather and environmental
sensors, SARSAT payloads, provided by Canada and France,
are carried aboard the United States National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA’s) Advanced TIROS
environmental satellites. (See Figure 1: Satellite Detection)

1.3.3 COSPAS and SARSAT satellites receive distress signals from

satellite EPIRBs transmitting on the frequency of 406.025
MHz. The COSPAS-SARSAT 406 MHz satellite EPIRB signal
consists of a transmission of non-modulated carrier followed by
a digital message format that provides identification data. The
406 MHz system uses spacecraft-borne equipment to measure
and store the Doppler-shifted frequency along with the satellite
EPIRB digital data message and time of measurement. This
information is transmitted in real time to an earth station
called the Local User Terminal (LUT), which may be within
the view of the satellite, as well as being stored for later
transmission to other LUTs. In the real-time mode, the signal
detection is limited to a mutual EPIRB-satellite-LUT circular
visibility area of about 2500 km radius that moves with the
satellite along its track. However, because of the stored-mode
5 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
 capability at 406 MHz, the need for this mutual EPIRB-
satellite-LUT visibility is not essential, and the system is fuly
functional worldwide.

1.3.4 The LUT processes the Doppler-shifted signal and determines

the location of the satellite EPIRB; then the LUT relays the
position of the distress to a Mission Control Center (MCC)
where the distress alert and location information is immedi-
ately forwarded to an appropriate maritime Rescue Coordina-
tion Center (RCC). The RCC dispatches Search and Rescue
(SAR) forces.

1.3.5 The COSPAS-SARSAT System includes 36 LEOSAR LUT

stations, 6 GEOSAR LUT stations and 19 Mission Control
Centers that provide real-time as well as global-mode coverage
for the Northern Hemisphere, while the Southern Hemisphere
is presently served primarily by the global mode. Additional
LUTs and MCCs are planned for installation in the near future
both in the northern and southern hemispheres.

The addition of the GEOSAR Satellite system greatly improves

the reaction time for a SAR event. This satellite system has no
Doppler capabilities at 406 but will relay the distress alert to
any of the LUT stations. When there is GPS data included in
the distress message this will instantly tell SAR authorities
where you are located at. Hence speeding up the reaction time
by not having to wait for one of the LEOSAR satellite's to come
around.

GEOSAR SATELLITE COVERAGE

Figure 1

6 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
 SAR SATELLITE ORBITS
Figure 2

1.3.6 Because most of the search and rescue forces presently are not
equipped to home on the 406 MHz Satellite EPIRB signal,
homing must be accomplished at 121.5 MHz.

1.3.7 The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 EPIRB are avail-
able in multiple combinations. The following product codes
define the options available to meet specific operational re-
quirements:

Prod. No. Model No. Cat. I Cat. II GPS Interface

2774 RLB-32 X
2775 RLB-32 X
2776 RLB-33 X X
2777 RLB-33 X X

Note: All models above conform to Class 1

Requirements (operations: –40°C to 55° C
storage: -50°C to 70°C)

7 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
1.4 AUTHORIZATIONS

1.4.1 The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 EPIRB meets the
requirements of Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Part
80 (Product No.'s 2774, 2775, 2776, and 2777) and GMDSS
(Product No.'s 2774 and 2776)

1.5 CHARACTERISTICS

1.5.1 The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 EPIRB is a floatable,

battery operated unit. The beacon case, with its external antenna,
is waterproof. The semiconductor circuits are mounted within the
case assembly that also contains the battery power supply. A
“Test/On” switch is installed on top of the beacon, along with a
strobe light. The beacon must be stored in its special mount, free
of obstructions aboard a vessel for automatic float-off. The unit is
self-buoyant and no external floatation devices are required.

1.6 TECHNICAL DATA - Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406

1.6.1 Applicable Documents

RTCM Standard for 406 MHz Satellite EPIRBs
COSPAS-SARSAT Document C/S T.001 Oct. 98
FCC Part 80 (Model No.'s RLB-32 and
RLB-33) and GMDSS
(Product No.'s 2774 & 2776)

1.6.2 Specifications
406 MHz Transmitter
Frequency 406.028 MHz
Frequency Stability ±2 parts per billion/100ms
Output Power 5 watts
Digital Message
1
Format RLB-32: Serialized
2
RLB-33: Serialized
Duration 440 ms (RLB-32)
520 ms (RLB-33)
Rate 400 bps
Encoding Biphase L
Modulation ±1.1 radians peak

8 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
1
Leaves ACR with Serialized U.S. code but can be reprogrammed at a
service center to Maritime or other coded format including nationality
of registration.
2
Leaves ACR with Serialized U.S. code but can be reprogrammed at a
Service center to Maritime MMSI.

121.5 MHz Transmitter

Frequency 121.5 MHz
Frequency Tolerance ±50 ppm
Output Power 25 mW PEP
Modulation
Type AM (3K20A3X)
Sweep Range 400 to 1200 Hz
Sweep Rate 3 Hz
Duty Cycle 37.5%
Antenna
Frequency 406.025 & 121.500 MHz
Polarization Vertical
VSWR Less than 1.5/1

Xenon Strobe
Light Color White
Output Power 0.75 effective candela
Flash Rate 20— 30 per minute

General/Environmental
Battery Life
Operating 48 hours minimum
Replacement Interval 5 years
Size
EPIRB less Antenna 7.20" (18.29 cm)
Antenna 7.39" (18.77 cm)
Material, EPIRB High impact and UV resistant plastic
Color Yellow
Weight 1.9 lbs.
Temperature Range
Operating Class I -40°C to +55°C

Stowage Class I -50°C to +70°C

9 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
 USER /
MCP PROGRAMMING
INTERFACE

RF
406 / 121.5 MHz
AMPLIFIER

EPIRB BLOCK DIAGRAM

FIGURE 3

10 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
Manufacturer Model Notes Y2K and EOW
Compliant
B&G Network LCD Plotter / * Yes
DGPS
B&G Network LCD Plotter / GPS * Yes

B&G Network GPS and DGPS * Yes

B&G Network GPS * Yes

Data Marine Chartlink D7000 XT * Yes

Data Marine Chartlink D7000 XTC * Yes

Data Marine Chartlink II D8000 * Yes

Data Marine Link D3500 * Yes

Data Marine Link D3500 LD * Yes
Furuno GP1810F * Yes
Furuno GP1810 * Yes
Furuno GP1610C * Yes
Furuno GP1600F * Yes
Furuno GP1600 * Yes
Furuno GP30 * Yes
Furuno GP35 * Yes
Garmin 10 * Yes
Garmin 12 * Yes
Garmin 20 * Yes
Garmin 25 * Yes
Garmin 30 * Yes
Garmin 31 * Yes
Garmin 35 * Yes
Garmin 36 * Yes
Garmin 38 * Yes
Garmin 40 * Yes
Garmin 45 * Yes
Garmin 48 * Yes
Garmin 50 * Yes
Garmin 75 * Yes
Garmin 85 * Yes

11 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
Manufacturer Model Notes Y2K and EOW
Compliant
Garmin 89 * Yes
Garmin 90 * Yes
Garmin 92 * Yes
Garmin 95 * Yes
Garmin 120 * Yes
Garmin 126 * Yes
Garmin 128 * Yes
Garmin 130 * Yes
Garmin 135 * Yes
Garmin 175 * Yes
Garmin 180 * Yes
Garmin 185 * Yes
Garmin 190 * Yes
Garmin 195 * Yes
Garmin 210 * Yes
Garmin GPSMAP 215 * Yes
Garmin 220 * Yes
Garmin GPSMAP 225 * Yes
Garmin GPSMAP 230 * Yes
Garmin GPSMAP 235 SOUNDER * Yes
Garmin 120XL * Yes
Garmin 12XL * Yes
Garmin 45XL * Yes
Garmin 55AVD * Yes
Garmin 95XL * Yes
Garmin GPS II * Yes
Garmin GPS II+ * Yes
Garmin GPS III * Yes
Lowrance GlobalMap 12 * Yes
Lowrance GlobalMap 1600 * Yes
Lowrance GlobalMap Sport Some older versions Yes
of software may not
output GGA, contact
Manufacturer
Lowrance LMS-160 * Yes
Magellan GPS 2000 XL * Yes

12 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
Manufacturer Model Notes Y2K and EOW
Compliant
Magellan GPS 3000 * Yes
Magellan GPS 3000 XL * Yes
Magellan GPS 4000 * Yes
Magellan GPS 4000XL * Yes
Magellan Meridian XL * Yes
Magellan Trailblazer * Yes
Magellan Trailblazer XL * Yes
Magellan White Meridian * Yes
NorthStar 941X * Yes
NorthStar 951X * Yes
NorthStar 961X * Yes
Raytheon Autohelm ST50 Plus GPS * Yes
Raytheon GPS-11 * Yes
Raytheon HSB Chart Plotter * Yes
Raytheon NavCenter 600 * Unit will display
wrong time and
date after Y2K.
Send unit to manu-
facturer for upgrade
Raytheon Raychart 620 * Unit will display
wrong time and
date after Y2K.
Send unit to manu-
facturer for upgrade
Raytheon RC-520 * Yes
Raytheon RL-70RC * Yes
Si-Tex DGPS-11 * Yes
Si-Tex GPS-1 * Yes
Si-Tex GPS-10 * Yes
Si-Tex GPS-10A * Yes
Si-Tex GPS-4A * Yes
Si-Tex GPS-5 * Yes
Si-Tex GPS-6 * Yes
Si-Tex GPS-7 * Yes
Si-Tex GPS-77P * Yes
Si-Tex GPS-8 * Yes

13 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
Manufacturer Model Notes Y2K and EOW
Compliant
Si-Tex GPS-88P * Yes
Si-Tex GPS-9 * Yes
Si-Tex GPS-99P * Yes
Si-Tex GPS-9D * Yes
Si-Tex HG-7 * Yes
Si-Tex SBR-90 * Yes
Si-Tex SBR-91 * Yes
Trimble 4000DSi * Firmware must be
upgraded to V7.19
to comply
Trimble 4000RSi * Users of Firmware
V7.15 - V7.18 must
upgrade to V7.19.
Users of V7.28
must upgrade to
V7.29. Users of
V7.29 are fully com-
pliant
Trimble 7400MSi * Yes
Trimble MS750 * Yes
Trimble Navgraphic XL * N/A - No Date Out-
put
Trimble NavMariner DGPS * Yes
Trimble NavTrac GPS * Version 2.09 is
compliant. Earlier
versions are not
being tested
Trimble NT200 * Yes
Trimble NT200D * Yes
Trimble NT300D * Yes
Trimble DSM * Yes for versions
1.10 and later
Trimble NT100 * Yes

GPS units compatible with ACR Beacons based on vendor information

(*) indicates that unit complies with ACR requirements

Known Compatible GPS Receivers

FIGURE 4

14 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
Mounting Case (Product No's 2774 & 2776 only)
Construction White High Impact and UV resistant
plastic
Size 6.5" x 17.1" (16.51 cm x 43.4 cm)

Release System Hydrostatic with manual override

Hydrostatic Release Kits

No. 9367 Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406

Replacement Parts
GPS Plug RapidFix Cat 1 9391
GPS Plug RapdiFix Cat 2 9390

Optional Mounting Brackets are available for Product No's 2775 and 2777.

Construction White High Impact and UV resistant

plastic
Size 6.0" x 7.7" (15.2 cm x 19.5 cm)

SECTION 2 - INSTALLATION (Attach antenna tightly onto unit)

2.1 MOUNTING LOCATION (Product No's 2774, 2776)

2.1.1 The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 float-off mounting

bracket should be mounted securely to a vertical or horizontal
surface (the mount has predrilled holes for attachment to a flat
surface) where there are no overhead obstructions. Location aboard
a vessel must be chosen to allow the EPIRB to float free of sinking
craft and as high as possible especially on small vessels. This will
help ensure operation of the hydrostatic release unit in the event the
vessel capsizes without sinking.

2.1.2 The location selected must be sufficiently rigid to support the weight
of the total installation and at the same time consider vibration,
exposure to the elements, exposure to surrounding hazards such as
equipment movement, doors being opened, accidental covering,
personnel traffic, etc., and yet be readily accessible at all times for
the emergency use for which the beacon is intended.
15 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
2.1.3 Also to be considered in selecting a location for installation is
the harmful effect that certain corrosive vapors might have on
the beacon. Under no circumstances should a location be
selected for installation where the beacon would be jeopardized
by any foreign articles being temporarily or permanently posi-
tioned during “at sea” or “in port” activities.

CAUTION: Care must be taken to prevent any lanyard, line,

or other emergency equipment that may be attached to the
beacon from becoming entangled or fouled which could pre-
vent the beacon from being removed in an emergency.

2.1.4 The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 float-off mounting

bracket should be securely attached to the vessel. The use of
#10 stainless steel hardware is recommended.

2.1.5 Do not mount the Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 in the
vicinity (2 meters) of strong magnetic (such as loud speakers)
or electric (such as radar or high power radio transmitter)
fields.

2.1.6 Consideration should be given to mounting the Satellite2™

406 and RapidFix™ 406 in a vertical (antenna upward posi-
tion). In certain circumstances, such as medical emergencies or
disabled vessels, manual activation of the EPIRB for location
and homing purposes is sometimes requested. Mounting in this
orientation provides the best homing signal.

2.2 VISUAL INSPECTION

2.2.1 Visually inspect the area surrounding the mounting bracket

installation site for hidden hazards, obstacles, etc., that may
have been overlooked during selection. If there is any doubt as
to the ready accessibility to the beacon at all times or if any
condition may appear to be questionable, make complete and
thorough investigation before making final approval of the
installation.

2.3 HYDROSTATIC RELEASE DATING INSTRUCTION

2.3.1 The label on the hydrostatic release mechanism inside of the

bracket and the replacement date label on the outside of the
16 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
 bracket MUST be dated with the date of expiration at time of
installation according to coastal marine authority regulations.

To record the expiration date on the hydrostatic release mecha-

nism, remove the perforated dates of the label to indicate the
month and year two years from date of installation. Write the
date of expiration with an indelible marker on the label
appearing on the outside cover.

SECTION 3 - OPERATION

3.1 GENERAL

3.1.1 The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 Beacon Models

2774, and 2776 are designed to be automatically deployed and
activated. The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 may also
be hand held on the deck of vessels, or floated in water and
attached to a raft or life vest with the lanyard provided. The
Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 are designed to operate
best while floating in water. Hand held operation should be
avoided when possible. Do not operate inside liferaft or under
any similar cover or canopy.

3.1.2 The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 Beacon can be

deployed and activated manually in any of the available prod-
ucts.

3.1.3 Because many users failed to properly place earlier generation

beacons in the “ARMED” or “READY” positions when in-
stalling them in their brackets, U.S. and International specifi-
cations require the elimination of the “OFF” switch position
and the inclusion of sensors to automatically activate the
beacon under specific conditions.

The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 are equipped with

sensors to detect when it is no longer in its bracket (a deploy-
ment condition) and other sensors to determine if it's in water.

Two conditions must be satisfied for the Satellite2™ 406 and

RapidFix™ 406 to automatically activate:
1) It must be out of its bracket,
17 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
 2) It must be in the water,
Note: Either condition by itself will not activate the beacon.

3.1.4 The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 are designed to

allow the user to perform periodic testing while EPIRB is in
the release bracket to assure a functioning beacon.

3.1.5 Place the Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 Product No's
2774 and 2756 into the release bracket with the coiled lanyard
inward. The beacon should now be firmly held in the release
bracket and ready for automatic deployment.

3.2 AUTOMATIC DEPLOYMENT & DEACTIVATION

(Product No's 2774 & 2776 only)

3.2.1 Automatic deployment and activation occurs when the vessel

sinks and a hydrostatic release device frees the beacon from the
bracket allowing it to float to the surface. Built-in sensors
detect that the beacon is no longer in its bracket and is in
water. This condition will automatically activate the beacon.

Note: Transmissions of the 121.5 MHz and 406 MHz signal

will not occur until 50 seconds after activation.

3.3 MANUAL DEPLOYMENT & ACTIVATION

3.3.1 The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 can be manually

deployed by removing the retaining pin, removing the cover,
then removing the beacon from the bracket. Once removed, the
beacon can be activated by being placed in water or by lifting
the thumb switch towards the antenna and placing the thumb
switch back down on the opposite side of the EPIRB. Activat-
ing the beacon in this manner breaks off the Activation Indica-
tor Plastic Pin and exposes the "ON" symbol " z " on the
thumb switch indicating that the beacon is turned "ON".

Note: Some countries fine vessel owners for causing false

alarms. The permanent breakage of the Activation Indicator
Plastic Pin is a positive indication of a manual activation.

18 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
3.4 MANUAL ACTIVATION WITHOUT DEPLOYMENT

3.4.1 The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 can be activated

while still in its bracket by placing the thumb switch in the ON
position. Activation by this method overrides all sensors and
turns the beacon “ON”.

The caution note above still applies.

3.5 DEACTIVATION

3.5.1 The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 can be deactivated

by:
If manually activated:
1) Returning the thumb switch to the original OFF position.

If automatically activated:
1) Removing the beacon from the water. The beacon nor-
mally takes up to 15 seconds to deactivate, or
2) Placing the beacon back into the release bracket.

3.5.2 If the beacon continues to operate after it has been deactivated,

remove the four screws holding the unit together and unplug
the battery to disable the unit. Return it to a service center for
repair.

3.6 TEST

3.6.1 The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 can be tested in or

out of the release bracket. A Self Test is initiated by lifting the
thumb switch to a vertical position and holding it in this
position for at least one second. The initiation of the test is
indicated by a beep and the simultaneous lighting of the green
and red LED's.

19 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
 The sequence of tests is:
1. Check Data Integrity.................Beep and lights up LEDs if passed
..................................................Stop if failed
2. Check 406 MHz Synthesizer.....Beep and lights up LEDs if passed
..................................................Stop if failed
3. Check RF Power/Battery...........Beep and lights up LEDs if passed
..................................................Stop if failed
4. Turn on green LED to indicate Successful Test.
5. Flash Strobe Light to test Strobe.

If all of the above occurs, the test has been successful.

NOTE: The homing beacon at 121.5 MHz is inhibited during self test.

3.6.2 It is strongly recommended to test the Satellite2™ 406 and Rapid-

Fix™ 406 on a Monthly basis.

3.7 External GPS Interface

™
3.7.1 Connecting the Rapid Fix 406 to a GPS via the Optical Interface
(IR Transmitter)
™
Your Rapid Fix 406 comes with a GPS Optical Interface
(transmitter plug with lead wires) and a keyed GPS bezel. The
™
transmitter plug attaches to your Rapid Fix 406, via the keyed
bezel. The GPS Optical Interface lead wires attach to your GPS via
the NMEA 0183 connector from your GPS receiver. The black lead
wire with white stripes should be connected to the positive transmit-
ter pin. The black wire should be connected to the negative pin.

NOTE: The baud rate output for your GPS receiver NMEA 0183 should be
4800 bps. Consult your GPS manufacturer for correct installation.

3.7.2 Using the GPS Interface

Once a compatible, operating GPS receiver is connected to the
™
RapidFix 406, the beacon will store data for incorporation into the
emergency message, which is transmitted to the satellite. This can
provide more accurate positioning data to the Search and Rescue
Authority and may lead to faster rescue. Since the last valid GPS
™
position data is always kept in the memory of the RapidFix 406,
the user should take care to make sure that the GPS position data
stored is accurate. This can be accomplished by two methods: First,
20 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
 by always leaving a properly functioning GPS connected to the
™
RapidFix 406 before activation. Second, by connecting a properly
™
functioning GPS with a valid position fix to the RapidFix 406 and
™
allowing sufficient time for the RapidFix 406 to acquire valid
position data from the GPS. This will take a nominal 20 minutes if
™
old GPS position data is stored in the RapidFix 406’s memory. If
™
there is no old GPS position data present, the RapidFix 406 will
acquire current data within a minute of being connected to a GPS
™
with a valid position fix. You can force the RapidFix 406 to
™
update its position at any time by initiating the RapidFix 406’s
Self-Test, see 3.7.3 and 3.7.4. If valid GPS position data is not
™
available, it is preferable to reset the RapidFix 406 with the
beacon’s default message (See Section 3.7.5).

3.7.3 Testing the GPS Interface

™
Connect the Optical Interface Plug to the Rapid Fix 406 bezel and
allow sufficient time for the GPS receiver to acquire valid GPS
position data (usually less than 1 minute; but it can take up to 30
minutes). Lift the thumb switch to the vertical (Self-Test) position
™
and release. Your Rapid Fix 406 will confirm that it has acquired
valid GPS data by emitting a beep along with a flash of the red and
green LED’s. This will occur approximately 2.5 seconds after the
Self-Test.

3.7.4 Updating GPS Position data

When the beacon is properly connected to a functioning and compat-
ible GPS receiver, GPS position data is automatically updated about
every 20 minutes, while valid GPS position data is present. The
operator can force the acquisition of new GPS position data, by
executing Self-Test of the beacon. This bypasses the normal, pro-
grammed, waiting time of 20 minutes for the automatic update of
™
GPS position data. Once the RapidFix 406 has completed the
Self-Test sequence by emitting the beep and flash of red and green
™
LEDs, as described in 3.7.3, the RapidFix 406 will request and
acquire new position data from the GPS. This can take a nominal 15
seconds or up to one minute.

NOTE: When the beacon is not activated, GPS position data will be
™
received and stored by the Rapid Fix 406 (No GPS position data
updates will occur while the beacon is activated).

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3.7.5 Position data set to default:
™
A new Rapid Fix 406 is programmed with the GPS position data
set to “default”. This “default” GPS position data indicates, upon
activation, to the satellite system that the beacon has no valid GPS
position stored in memory. Once a functioning and compatible GPS
receiver is properly connected to the beacon, this “default” data will
be replaced by valid G PS position data, as described in the previous
sections.

Position data will be reset to default by activating the beacon

(turning the beacon ON) and then turning the beacon OFF.
™
NOTE: The RapidFix 406 should never be turned “ON” except in
situations of imminent danger.

ALSO NOTE: The action of turning the beacon ON and then OFF
clears any stored GPS position data.

4.0 MAINTENANCE (Check antenna for tightness)

4.1 At least every ninety days, the float free mounting bracket and
Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 EPIRB should be inspected
for deterioration and/or buildup that may affect the function of the
beacon or automatic release.

Also carefully inspect the EPIRB case for any visible cracks. Cracks
may admit moisture, which could falsely activate the beacon or
otherwise cause a malfunction. Any cracking observed should be
immediately referred to ACR for evaluation, (1-800-432-0227 Ext.
112)

4.2 Clean the beacon and the mounting bracket to remove residue
buildups. It is recommended that the mounting bracket be waxed
with a high quality marine wax.

4.3 The hydrostatic release unit (HRU) must be replaced by the date
indicated on the float free mounting bracket. The hydrostatic release
can be replaced by removing the Beacon from the bracket, then
sliding the hydrostatic release assembly out of the keyed opening on
22 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
 the spring and mounting bracket. Insert the new hydrostatic release
assembly, in place by engaging it to the opening of the ejection
spring and case. When servicing the HRU, ACR strongly recom-
mends replacing the entire hydrostatic assembly, including hydro-
static release, release rod and all hardware (P/N 9367). Always use
original ACR replacement parts. Use of unauthorized replacement
parts may void your warranty. Place beacon into the mounting
bracket, and replace cover, securing in place with hitch pin going
through the hydrostatic release rod.

4.4 The battery (P/N 1096) must be replaced by the date indicated on the
beacon. At each inspection, check the time remaining until replace-
ment is required.

NOTE: There are no user serviceable items inside the EPIRB. DO

NOT OPEN THE EPIRB UNLESS TO DISABLE IN CASE OF
FAULTY ACTIVATION.

Refer all long life battery replacement and other internal EPIRB
service to a factory authorized service center.

For the nearest location of a factory authorized service center,

call 1-800-432-0227 Ext. 112 (toll free).

4.5 The Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406 contain lithium batteries
which are not subject to the requirements of the DOT Subchapter C,
Hazardous Materials Regulations, because they meet the United
Nations Classification of LiS02 Batteries for Shipment of "Non –
Dangerous".

5.0 REGISTRATION

5.1 It is imperative that this EPIRB be registered with NOAA (National

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) in the USA or with your
own national authority.
The EPIRB has been programmed with a unique identification
number or code which is broadcast on 406 MHz. Registration
provides the Search and Rescue people with important information
which will speed up the rescue operation and minimize false alarms.

5.2 To register this EPIRB with NOAA (USA registration only), simply
23 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
 fill out and mail the provided form in the enclosed pre-
addressed envelope to NOAA or fax the completed form to
NOAA at (301) 457-5406.

5.3 NOAA will supply a Beacon Registration decal which is to be

affixed to the Satellite2™ 406 and RapidFix™ 406. The
recommended mounting location is on the front of bottom case
above the instruction label. (See Figure 2)

6.0 FALSE ALARMS

6.1 Should there be, for any reason, an inadvertent activation or

false alarm, it must be reported to the nearest search and rescue
authorities. The information that should be reported includes
the satellite EPIRB Unique Identifier Number (UIN); date,
time, duration, and cause of activation; and the location at the
time of activation.

6.2 Contact the following to report false alarms (US):

Atlantic Ocean/Gulf of Mexico—

USCG Atlantic Area Command Center
Tel: (212) 668-7055

Pacific Ocean Area—

USCG Pacific Area Command Center
Tel: (510) 437-3700

From any location—

USCG HQ Command Center
Tel: (800) 323-7233

24 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
 *** WARNING ***
THIS TRANSMITTER IS AUTHORIZED FOR USE
ONLY DURING SITUATIONS OF GRAVE
AND IMMINENT DANGER

25 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
 (GPS PLUG NOT SHOWN)

ACR RAPIDFIXTM 406

Figure 6

26 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
 TM
ACR Satellite2 406
Figure 7

27 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
Sea Shelter w/Beacon
Figure 8

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29 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
30 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A
31 Y1-03-0148 Rev. A