Developers of safety and survival technologies ACR Electronics have launched the GlobalFix V6, a mobile-connected EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) for commercial and recreational vessel operators.
EPIRBs are traditionally activated in life-threatening events, such as sinking, collision and accident, or medical emergency, to transmit a 406 MHz distress signal via the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system to contact global rescue services.
Featuring Return Link Service (RLS) capability, the GlobalFix V6 delivers a notification to the beacon owner to confirm that the international satellite system has received the distress message and location. With NFC (Near Field Communication) technology provided via the free ACR mobile app, beacon owners can connect to a smartphone to check current battery life, self-tests result, and beacon diagnostics.
The rugged, robust beacon, with 10-year battery life, includes GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) positioning, 406 MHz Cospas-Sarsat distress signal with MEOSAR compatibility and 121.5 MHz local homing signal.
Available with a Category I float free bracket or a Category II manual release bracket, the V6 EPIRB has an infrared strobe, as well as visible light, to facilitate rescue in poor visibility or at night. The beacon is ideal for SOLAS vessels that are now required to comply with the new AIS EPIRB carriage requirements mandated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
The ACR GlobalFix V6 EPIRB has received Cospas-Sarsat approval, equipment authorization from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and approval from the U.S. Coast Guard and RED (Radio Equipment Directive) compliance.
