HydroFix™ Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU) The HydroFix™ Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU) is a patented rod system that allows a beacon to be quickly and reliably released from a Category I bracket when submerged in water between  4.9' to 13.1' (1.5 to 4 M.)   Does not rely on a battery, blade or pyrotechnic device to release the beacon.  This advantage allows for a quick, seamless and reliable release in an emergency. *This is a date-stamped product and must be replaced every 2 years from the date of installation or 4 years from the date of manufacture.   Compatible With: ACR Sea Shelter,  Sea Shelter2 and Sea Shelter3 brackets Features: Easily replaceable 100% factory tested Technical Specifications: Dimensions -  2.5" x 3.4" x 2.0" (6.3 x 8.6 x 5.0 cm) Weight - 3.3oz (93.6 g) *Sold as an Individual  WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov. This product may not be returned to the original point of purchase. Please contact the manufacturer directly with any issues or concerns.

Hydrostatic Release Unit McMurdo Hydrostatic Release for Catagory 1 EPIRB 'BreaktHRU' - the Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU) Kit from McMurdo. Smaller that other HRUs currently available, BreaktHRU is unique in its use of a small pyrotechnic charge, which is used to enable EPIRBs to automatically float free. Features: Compact Classified non-hazardous Complies with the latest SOLAS and IMO resolutions Fits the footprint of existing HRUs Service life of two years Using technology developed exclusively by McMurdo, the pyrotechnic charge is used to activate the HRU when it is submerged in water < 13 feet. Once activated the EPIRB is automatically released - it's as simple as that!

Replacement HRU Kit for G8 Hydrostatic Release Unit Replacment HRU for McMurdo EPIRB in series G8.

Hydrostatic Release Unit A hydrostatic release unit, or HRU, enables liferafts to surface and inflate automatically when a vessel is sinking. It is simple to install and releases at all angles - requiring only water pressure to activate.

Replacement Hydrostatic  Replacement Hydrostatic Release mechanism for Ocean Signal Category I EPIRB's.  Must be replaced every two (2) years from date of installation.  Compatible With:  Ocean Signal Category 1 EPIRB's *Sold as an Individual    WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (dehp) which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

The joys of on-the-water paddle sports are many. Paddling your own canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or  surfboard takes individual skill, where you set your own pace and experience a sense of calm and quiet serenity as you glide across the pristine waters. You will encounter fewer & wild parties with large, raft-up boat flotillas crowding the waterways. Stand Up Paddle Boarding Stand-up paddleboarding originated in Hawaii, and while it is a recent addition to the list of paddle sports, some believe that it has been around for longer. Experts say it has existed for decades but came to prominence in the 2000s, evolving into the recognized sport today. Its earliest roots trace it back to the 18th century when native Hawaiians paddled along the Pacific from island to island. The modern applications of stand-up paddle boarding, or SUP as some call it, emerged in the mid-20th century with the extreme popularity of surf culture in the 1960s. The shores of California first welcomed SUP in 2005, where it caught on instantly among the locals. Today, SUP has spread across the country, with more than 22 million Americans participating in stand-up paddleboarding.   Simply put, stand-up paddleboarding involves getting on a surf-like board with a long SUP paddle which you will use to propel the board while standing up straight. This paddle sport is excellent for photographers as they can get a much better view while standing up. There is more than one way on how to paddle a stand-up paddleboard. You can race, tour, and surf. Many marinas have partnered with yoga instructors to offer on-the-water stand-up paddleboard yoga classes. It is refreshing to watch a class of yogis as they attempt perfect balance in a headstand on an unanchored, less than steady paddleboard! You can even turn your SUP into a kayak. More recent is white water paddle boarding for the thrill-seekers. Kayaking may have been the fastest-growing paddle sport, but stand-up paddleboarding has taken over this title. New variations of stand-up paddleboards have hit the market. Some boards are inflatable, some can be folded up into thirds with hinged sections, and newer paddleboards include tall seats and pedals. For SUP equipment information, click this link at CLR Marine. https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/paddlesports.html.   SAFETY FIRST and WEATHER ALERTS WHEN PADDLE BOARDING While enjoying any paddle sport, such as paddle boarding, canoeing, or kayaking, be aware that weather can change in an instant. A calm stream can suddenly become a raging river if weather conditions suddenly change higher up at the stream's headwaters.    PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD) Wearing or carrying a PFD on-board is essential to paddleboard safety. Stand-up Paddleboards are considered "vessels" under the United States Coast Guard regulations when used out of designated swimming, surfing, or bathing areas. Individuals 13 years of age and older must have a PFD on board, and those 12 years of age and younger are required to wear a PFD at all times on the water. Not only can a PFD save your life, but it can also make it easier for you to climb back aboard after falling or jumping in the water. https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/marine-safety/personal-flotation-devices.html   WHISTLE A whistle can be a simple, inexpensive item to carry that can make a huge difference in an emergency. You can use a whistle to alert motorized boats to your presence if needed or to get help from the shore if you have trouble on the water. A whistle can also be heard in the fog when visibility is at a minimum. https://www.clrmarine.com/m4/10020--acr-survival-res-q-whistle-w-18-lanyard.html   PERSONAL LOCATOR BEACON Personal locator beacons are handheld devices that signal 406 MHz, the same frequency used for newer emergency locator transmitters. Activate a PLB—in most cases, simply by extending the antenna and pressing the On button—and it transmits a powerful distress signal with a unique digital code. https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/paddlesports/personal-locator-beacons.html   LEASH If you fall off your SUP while in the water, the leash will keep your board easily accessible. Wind, currents, and waves can quickly sweep your SUP away from you. Fasten the cord securely & around your ankle.   WETSUIT If you plan on going out on cold water, you should consider a suit to keep you warm. Hypothermia escalates rapidly. An accidental fall into a cold mountain lake or cold ocean water would ruin your trip. Remember that you won't have a stack of warm blankets or warm, dry clothing with you.   HELMET If you're going to take your SUP down a river, you should consider a helmet for the trip. Kayakers wear them, and their heads are much closer to the water than someone standing on a paddleboard. Falling onto hidden or exposed rocks from a standing position could cause a devastating impact. Protect your brain. Wear a helmet.   WEATHER Always be aware of the current weather conditions for your SUP outing and pay attention to the forecast for the day. Weather conditions can change rapidly in some locations, and getting caught in bad weather can be very dangerous. The wind is always a threat. The wind can quickly unbalance a paddle boarder, make it difficult to paddle, or even carry the board quickly away from a dismounted paddler. Have a weather app on your phone, and hopefully a signal will transmit while you are on the water. PADDLE with a PARTNER The best way to enjoy your SUP is with a friend. It is also one of the best ways to stay safe on the water. Paddling buddies can double-check gear before heading out and watch out for each other while out on the water. Let friends know where you will be. Leave your itinerary with someone on land. If you don't return at your designated time, your land buddy will start the search. Should your itinerary change, get in touch with your person on shore. Cell service may be limited on the water. Don't count on your cell phone to be your lifeline.   SUNSCREEN The sun is known to cause cancer in all states, not just California. Protect any exposed skin.    KNOW YOUR LIMITS Remember that you have that same distance on your return trip for every mile that you have traveled out. While the wind may be at your back on the way out, a headwind at the return will be a challenge as your energy is diminishing. Paddleboarding is an excellent way for you to blend in with your surroundings and slide from one area to another. Be safe. Know the distance to your destination or how much exertion you want to make at each outing. In addition, to stand-up paddleboarding, other paddle sports to enjoy are kayaking, surfing, and canoeing. We will explore these paddle sports in a future blog. Fair winds and smooth sailing.   To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please contact CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________    Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com ©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com, 2021.

ACR Electronics of Fort Lauderdale is voluntarily recalling some of its GlobalFix iPRO EPIRBs because a “small percentage” of them may not activate manually. ACR discovered that some of the witness seal tabs used in the manual activation of the GlobalFix iPRO required excessive force to put the switch into its correct position. The water activation feature works separately and is not affected by the manual switch. The company says the manual switch assembly will require reworking on a “very limited range” of GlobalFix iPRO units shipped to market. The problem could exist in a maximum of 400 units built within serial number range of 1,000 to 1,699. The 400 units could be either the P/N #2846 Category I (automatic deploy) or P/N #2848 Category II (manual deploy) model. The company says iPROs with serial numbers outside of this limited recall range are not affected by this notice, and no other ACR EPIRB units are affected. Contact ACR's Customer Service Department at (954) 862-2110

ACR Spring 2016   Promotions Super Savings on Select ACR EPIRBs & PLBs   Now until May 9th, 2016, enjoy super savings on select ACR EPIRB and PLB units. Don't miss out on this fantastic offer!           Specials     Rebates    Close Outs     Remanufactured

GlobalFix V6 EPIRB Catagory I with Return Link Service & Near Field Communication The ACR GlobalFix V6 EPIRB is a versatile emergency position-indicating radio beacon suitable for use on both recreational and commercial vessels. High-tech features like Return Link Service (RLS) reassure users by confirming that the beacon has successfully sent the distress message and that this message has been received. ACR’s Near Field Communication (NFC) allows the beacon to connect to a smartphone for quick diagnostics that demonstrate the battery is charged and the EPIRB is functioning properly. The GlobalFix V6 is an ideal safety solution for all types of vessels and activities, including coastal cruising, offshore passage-making, or working or fishing in any ocean. Reliable Worldwide Digital Mayday Tells Rescuers Where to Search The ACR GlobalFix V6 EPIRB accurately derives its position globally through the GNSS (GPS, Galileo, Glonass) positioning networks. Triggering the device produces a digital mayday using a 406 MHz distress transmission that relays the GPS EPIRB (GPIRB) position, accurate to within 100 meters, to the worldwide Cospas Sarsat search and rescue satellite network. Position information and vessel identification are then relayed by the satellites to ground stations, which ultimately helps decide the scope of the rescue operation to be launched. Once the EPIRB is activated, a 121.5 MHz signal is transmitted in addition to the higher frequency satellite signal. This 121.5 MHz homing signal aids rescuers in finding the device when they arrive at the rescue scene, which is particularly important if the beacon has drifted from its original location. The GlobalFix V6 EPIRB also emits both a visual and infrared strobe to help rescuers pinpoint the beacon and speed rescue operations. Near Field Communication (NFC) Ensures the EPIRB is Functioning Properly Using ACR’s free smartphone app and NFC (Near Field Communication) technology, users can easily access EPIRB diagnostics. Placing a smartphone adjacent to the GlobalFix V6 EPIRB opens the ACR Product App which shows EPIRB data. The app shows the current battery life of the beacon, the number of GNSS and self-tests completed, and the amount of time the EPIRB has been activated. Users can see detailed information on each self-test and GNSS test performed by the device. GNSS tests include a map view demonstrating where previous tests were performed, the date and time of the tests, how long it took the EPIRB to get a fix on the GNSS coordinates, the number of satellites used to obtain that fix, and the fix’s accuracy. NFC allows users to routinely check the status of all EPIRB functions to ensure it is working properly and ready to go in case of an emergency. Return Link Service (RLS) Return Link Service indicates to the user that an EPIRB rescue transmission has been received. The RLS signal is sent back through the Galileo satellite network, confirming that the digital mayday including precise beacon location and identifiers, has been delivered. An easy-to-see flashing blue light indicates the EPIRB’s successful reception of the Return Link message through the Galileo satellite network. Those in distress who have triggered the beacon and received the RLS confirmation know that rescuers will be made aware of the EPIRB activation and location and that rescue operations will be launched. ACR is a globally recognized leader in marine electronic rescue devices and other life-saving products. They build quality rescue equipment solutions like the ACR GlobalFix V6 EPIRB that is suitable for all types and sizes of vessels in both the recreational and commercial sectors. Long life Lithium batteries, global 406 MHz satellite transmission, a 121.5 MHz homing signal, visual and infrared strobes, and a Return Link Service that tells users their rescue signal has been received are all packed into a durable waterproof beacon. Near Field Communication and the free ACR App allow users to check the EPIRB status for added reliability. Mariners' coastal cruising, working offshore, or crossing oceans will appreciate the advanced features of the GlobalFix V6 EPIRB. Specifications: Included Bracket: Category 1 Float Free Bracket Product Description: EPIRB with RLS and NFC Model Number: RLB-43 Output Power (406/121.5): 406.040 MHz, 5W (nominal) / 121.5 MHz, 50mW (nominal) RLS: Return Link Service (RLS) confirmation direct to beacon NFC / Mobile App: Near Field Communication (NFC) and Mobile App Included Strobe: White & Infrared Size (antenna up) – Beacon Only: 18.5" x 4.3" x 4.36" / 470 mm x 109 mm x 111 mm) Weight – Beacon Only: 1.78 lbs / 810 G Battery: Lithium battery, Li/FeS2 Battery Replacement: 10-year replaceable battery (replace 10 years after the date of manufacture or after activation) Temperature Range (Class 2): Storage: -22°F to +158°F (-30°C to +70°C) Operating Temperature Range: -4°F to +131°F (-20°C to +55°C) GPS: 72 Channel Multi-constellation receiver (GPS, Galileo, & Glonass GNSS) Activation: Out of bracket and wet, or manually in or out of the bracket (Class 3 – manual activation only) Waterproof: 33 ft (10 m) for 5 min. Buoyant: Yes Operational Life: 48 hours minimum @ -4°F (-20°C) Deployment: Category I - Hydrostatic Release (auto deploy) or Category II – Manual Release (manual deploy) Warranty: 5 years Accessories: EPIRB Mounting Hardware (Included – P/N 9657), Cat I Bracket (P/N 9660), HRU (P/N 9490.1) Approvals: Cospas-Sarsat, FCC, RED This product may not be returned to the original point of purchase. Please contact the manufacturer directly with any issues or concerns.

ARH100 Automatic Hydrostatic Release Housing The ARH100 is manufactured in a durable and highly UV stable plastic and provide excellent protection of the unit until it is required. ARH100 automatic release housing, containing a hydrostatic release mechanism which automatically deploys the EPIRB if the vessel is sinking Note: IMO regulations require an automatic release housing to be provided for mandatory fitted EPIRB's. WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (dehp) which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

GlobalFix™ V5 Cat 1 GPS AIS EPIRB with Return Link Service & Mobile App The ACR GlobalFix V5 EPIRB combines 406 MHz satellite connectivity with Automatic Identification System (AIS) functionality. This means that when the EPIRB is activated not only does it transmit your emergency signal to the global Cospas Sarsat satellite rescue system, but it broadcasts an AIS safety message on VHF-frequencies that can be seen immediately by any AIS-equipped vessel nearby. Other great features include Return Link Service (RLS) technology that provides visual confirmation to the user that their distress message has been received, a 121.5 MHz homing signal, and visible and infrared strobe lights for easy target identification at night or in poor visibility. Another feature is Near Field Communication (NFC) which allows users to monitor their EPIRB using a smartphone App. ACR is the global leader in marine safety and rescue technology and the GlobalFix V5 GPS EPIRB with AIS combines the durability and reliability they are known for with advanced technology designed to speed rescue response time.   Faster Rescues through the Pairing of Global and Local Rescue The ACR GlobalFix V5 EPIRB accurately derives its position anywhere in the world using GNSS (GPS, Galileo, Glonass) positioning networks. Upon activation 406 MHz distress transmissions relay the GPS EPIRB (GPIRB) position, accurate to within 100 meters, to the worldwide Cospas Sarsat search and rescue satellite network. EPIRB identifiers and position information is relayed to ground stations through the satellite system initiating rescue operations. With advanced AIS technology now incorporated into the EPIRB, once activated an AIS signal is transmitted so that nearby vessels outfitted with an AIS transponder are instantly notified of the EPIRB location. AIS-equipped vessels within the VHF range of the EPIRB will see a safety message on their screens including MMSI vessel identification. Vessels in the area where the EPIRB has been activated can then start rescue and recovery operations immediately without having to wait for an emergency response from the applicable SAR authority. AIS also allows local responders to easily pinpoint the EPIRB’s location which is presented as an AIS target on their onboard display. Nearby vessels with onboard AIS can navigate directly to the EPIRB by selecting the AIS target. This incredible technological advancement will speed recovery times which is sure to save lives. Smartphone Connectivity utilizing Near Field Communication (NFC) NFC (Near Field Communication) technology allows users to access EPIRB diagnostics using their smartphones. When a smartphone is placed adjacent to the GlobalFix V5 EPIRB the ACR Product App automatically opens providing access to EPIRB data. Beacon status information in the app includes current battery life, number of self-tests completed, number of GNSS tests completed, and the amount of time the EPIRB has been activated. Detailed information on each self-test and GNSS test performed by the device is also available. GNSS tests show a map view pinpointing where the previous test was performed, the date and time of the test, how long it took the EPIRB to get a fix on the GNSS coordinates, the number of satellites used to obtain that fix, and the accuracy of the fix. Easy App connectivity with NFC allows users to easily check the status of all EPIRB functions to ensure it is working properly. Return Link Service (RLS) Return Link Service tells whoever triggers the EPIRB that the distress message has been delivered. An RLS signal sent back through the Galileo satellite network confirms that the distress message along with the precise beacon location and identifiers have been detected. An easy-to-see flashing blue light indicates the EPIRB’s successful reception of the Return Link message from the Galileo satellite network. The comfort of knowing rescuers are aware that an EPIRB has been activated and that they have its location helps reduce the stress associated with mayday situations. ACR specializes in electronic rescue devices and other life-saving products designed for both professional and recreational mariners. With the addition of AIS, the innovative ACR GlobalFix V5 EPIRB provides the easiest and quickest path to rescue. Return Link Service provides a welcomed sense of security knowing that your distress message has been received and Near Field Communication provides access to data and product functionality that has never before been available to any EPIRB customer. The advanced feature set of the GlobalFix V5 EPIRB makes it perfect for mariners whether coastal cruising, working offshore, or crossing oceans. Specifications: Output Power (406/121.5): 406.040 MHz, 5W (nominal) / 121.5 MHz, 50mW (nominal) AIS: Yes, AIS Alerts for Local Rescue Return Link Service: Yes, Enabled RLS confirmation direct to beacon NFC/Mobile App: Yes, Near Field Communication (NFC) and Mobile App Included Strobe: White & Infrared Dual Technology Size (antenna up) – Beacon Only: 18.5” x 4.3” x 4.36” (470 mm x 109 mm x 111 mm) Weight – Beacon Only: 1.78 lbs (810 G) Battery: Lithium battery, Li/FeS2 Battery Replacement: 10-year replaceable battery (replace 10 years after the date of manufacture or after activation) GPS: 72 Channel Multi-constellation receiver (GPS, Galileo, & Glonass GNSS) Activation: Out of bracket and wet, or manually in or out of the bracket Waterproof: 33 ft (10 m) for 5 min. Buoyant: Yes Operational Life: 48 hours minimum @ -4°F (-20°C) Deployment: Category I – Hydrostatic Release (auto deploy) Warranty: 5 years Approvals: Cospas-Sarsat/FCC/MED/MER Approved This product may not be returned to the original point of purchase. Please contact the manufacturer directly with any issues or concerns.

  On Memorial Day, the United States pauses to honor the fallen heroes who died in service to our Nation. With heavy hearts and a sense of profound gratitude, we mourn these women and men, parent, children, comrades-in-arms, friends, and all those known and unknown, who believed so deeply in what our country that they were willing to make the ultimate sacrifice and give their lives to protect us.   With a constant barrage of commercials and ads touting Memorial Day Weekend discounts on cars, cheap furniture and more, it’s easy for many Americans to be distracted from our understanding for the true reason we observe Memorial Day.    While it’s nice to BBQ, enjoy a 3-day weekend and get excited about the unofficial start of summer, it’s also the time to honor, to remember, and to reflect!   If you do nothing else this weekend, please take time to reflect on the real reason we observe Memorial Day and honor all the brave men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice to make the United States the land of the free and the home of the brave.   Land of the free because of the Brave!  

SafeSea EPIRB1 Pro - Float-Free Category 1 EPIRB The SafeSea EPIRB1 Pro operates in the 406MHz satellite band. This band comprises the international distress frequencies that are constantly monitored by Cospas-Sarsat, the international search and rescue satellite operator, ensuring a rapid response when a signal is received, no matter where it is in the world.  As the world’s most compact Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon or EPIRB, the EPIRB1 Pro pairs its compact stature with a durable design, making it a practical option to meet the needs of all commercial, fishing, and leisure vessels. The product has been designed for maximum efficiency and boasts a 10 year battery life in addition to superb operating life when activated, keeping rescue services updated with your location for longer.  Features: Most compact Float Free EPIRB / 30% Smaller Footprint (typically) State of the art 66 channel GPS receiver for fast and accurate position acquisition Float Free bracket, automatic release housing with Hydrostatic Release Unit High intensity strobe lights 10 Year Battery Life Intuitive operating controls protected from accidental activation Meets or exceeds all International standards including IMO and GMDSS Class 2 EPIRB (-20°C – +55°C) for general use Non hazardous battery This EPIRB is fitted with a 121.5MHz homing beacon used by rescue services for close-in location of vessels in distress. In addition, the EPIRB is fitted with a high brightness LED strobe light for additional impact, especially at night. For emergency situations where a user is not physically able to reach the EPIRB in time, The EPIRB1 Pro also comes complete with a Category I Automatic Release Housing (commonly referred to as ‘float free’). This ensures that the EPIRB is automatically deployed from the bracket by the internal Hydrostatic Release Unit, and then also automatically activates and floats to the surface to send your distress message to the satellite network. The Automatic Release Housing (ARH) also includes a convenient adapter providing multiple retrofit options. Use the adapter to easily mount the ARH using the same mounting holes that were previously used for older and larger EPIRBS such as the Ocean Signal E100/E100G, Jotron Tron 60s, and McMurdo E5/G5. WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (dehp) which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov. This product may not be returned to the original point of purchase. Please contact the manufacturer directly with any issues or concerns.

  Challenge America, in collaboration with Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency and WINC: For All Women Veterans, announced the launch of a free, social platform designed to connect women Veterans to VA and other resources, like peer-to-peer support, online courses and in-person events across the country.   To Find out more please follow this link. https://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/71534/military-sisterhood-initiative-go-live-february-18/

GlobalFix™ V5 Cat 2 GPS AIS EPIRB with Return Link Service & Mobile App The ACR GlobalFix V5 EPIRB combines 406 MHz satellite connectivity with Automatic Identification System (AIS) functionality. This means that when the EPIRB is activated not only does it transmit your emergency signal to the global Cospas Sarsat satellite rescue system, but it broadcasts an AIS safety message on VHF-frequencies that can be seen immediately by any AIS-equipped vessel nearby. Other great features include Return Link Service (RLS) technology that provides visual confirmation to the user that their distress message has been received, a 121.5 MHz homing signal, and visible and infrared strobe lights for easy target identification at night or in poor visibility. Another feature is Near Field Communication (NFC) which allows users to monitor their EPIRB using a smartphone App. ACR is the global leader in marine safety and rescue technology and the GlobalFix V5 GPS EPIRB with AIS combines the durability and reliability they are known for with advanced technology designed to speed rescue response time.   Faster Rescues through the Pairing of Global and Local Rescue The ACR GlobalFix V5 EPIRB accurately derives its position anywhere in the world using GNSS (GPS, Galileo, Glonass) positioning networks. Upon activation 406 MHz distress transmissions relay the GPS EPIRB (GPIRB) position, accurate to within 100 meters, to the worldwide Cospas Sarsat search and rescue satellite network. EPIRB identifiers and position information is relayed to ground stations through the satellite system initiating rescue operations. With advanced AIS technology now incorporated into the EPIRB, once activated an AIS signal is transmitted so that nearby vessels outfitted with an AIS transponder are instantly notified of the EPIRB location. AIS-equipped vessels within the VHF range of the EPIRB will see a safety message on their screens including MMSI vessel identification. Vessels in the area where the EPIRB has been activated can then start rescue and recovery operations immediately without having to wait for an emergency response from the applicable SAR authority. AIS also allows local responders to easily pinpoint the EPIRB’s location which is presented as an AIS target on their onboard display. Nearby vessels with onboard AIS can navigate directly to the EPIRB by selecting the AIS target. This incredible technological advancement will speed recovery times which is sure to save lives. Smartphone Connectivity utilizing Near Field Communication (NFC) NFC (Near Field Communication) technology allows users to access EPIRB diagnostics using their smartphones. When a smartphone is placed adjacent to the GlobalFix V5 EPIRB the ACR Product App automatically opens providing access to EPIRB data. Beacon status information in the app includes current battery life, number of self-tests completed, number of GNSS tests completed, and the amount of time the EPIRB has been activated. Detailed information on each self-test and GNSS test performed by the device is also available. GNSS tests show a map view pinpointing where the previous test was performed, the date and time of the test, how long it took the EPIRB to get a fix on the GNSS coordinates, the number of satellites used to obtain that fix, and the accuracy of the fix. Easy App connectivity with NFC allows users to easily check the status of all EPIRB functions to ensure it is working properly. Return Link Service (RLS) Return Link Service tells whoever triggers the EPIRB that the distress message has been delivered. An RLS signal sent back through the Galileo satellite network confirms that the distress message along with the precise beacon location and identifiers have been detected. An easy-to-see flashing blue light indicates the EPIRB’s successful reception of the Return Link message from the Galileo satellite network. The comfort of knowing rescuers are aware that an EPIRB has been activated and that they have its location helps reduce the stress associated with mayday situations. ACR specializes in electronic rescue devices and other life-saving products designed for both professional and recreational mariners. With the addition of AIS, the innovative ACR GlobalFix V5 EPIRB provides the easiest and quickest path to rescue. Return Link Service provides a welcomed sense of security knowing that your distress message has been received and Near Field Communication provides access to data and product functionality that has never before been available to any EPIRB customer. The advanced feature set of the GlobalFix V5 EPIRB makes it perfect for mariners whether coastal cruising, working offshore, or crossing oceans. Specifications: Output Power (406/121.5): 406.040 MHz, 5W (nominal) / 121.5 MHz, 50mW (nominal) AIS: Yes, AIS Alerts for Local Rescue Return Link Service: Yes, Enabled RLS confirmation direct to beacon NFC/Mobile App: Yes, Near Field Communication (NFC) and Mobile App Included Strobe: White & Infrared Dual Technology Size (antenna up) – Beacon Only: 18.5” x 4.3” x 4.36” (470 mm x 109 mm x 111 mm) Weight – Beacon Only: 1.78 lbs (810 G) Battery: Lithium battery, Li/FeS2 Battery Replacement: 10-year replaceable battery (replace 10 years after the date of manufacture or after activation) GPS: 72 Channel Multi-constellation receiver (GPS, Galileo, & Glonass GNSS) Activation: Out of bracket and wet, or manually in or out of the bracket Waterproof: 33 ft (10 m) for 5 min. Buoyant: Yes Operational Life: 48 hours minimum @ -4°F (-20°C) Deployment: Category II – Manual Release (manual deployment)  Warranty: 5 years Approvals: Cospas-Sarsat/FCC/MED/MER Approved This product may not be returned to the original point of purchase. Please contact the manufacturer directly with any issues or concerns.