GME MT403FF User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
OWNER DETAILS
Name:
Address:
Phone:
Beacon UIN/15-HEX ID:
Congratulations on purchasing your new Accusat™ MT400 series EPIRB.The
Accusat™MT403FF and MT403FG are the most advanced 406 MHz Digital
Satellite Beacons available today. Using new digital frequency generation
technology, GME have developed and approved world wide, a new family of
affordable high performance 406 MHz beacons.
Although the satellite EPIRB is one of the most significant advances in search
and rescue technology in many years. It is not a substitute for a marine
radio – Mariners should not be over-reliant on any single system.Wise, safe
Mariners plan carefully, ensure that shore contacts know their sail plan, carry
a marine radio, EPIRB and the right range of other safety equipment, and
operate their craft sensibly to suit conditions at sea.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The Accusat™MT403FF and MT403FG Digital Emergency Position Indicating
Radio Beacons (EPIRB) are designed for use when the safety of your craft
and crew is endangered and you have no other means of communication.
An EPIRB can save your life and the lives of
others on board by leading an air/sea rescue
to your precise location. In the past, extensive
and lengthy searches have been carried out for
missing craft, sometimes to no avail.
Your GME EPIRB is a self contained 406 MHz
radio transmitter that emits an internationally-
recognized distress signal on a frequency
monitored by the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite
system. The distress transmission contains
a unique identity code which can be cross
referenced to a database of registered 406 MHz Beacons,
allowing the Beacons owner or vessel to be immediately
identified in the event of an emergency. Both models can be manually
activated by the operator in an emergency situation. Each will also
automatically activate out of it’s housing, if floated in water. The special
auto-release housing provided with your MT403FF/FG not only provides
day to day protection from the environment, but will automatically deploy
the beacon when a predetermined water depth is reached.This combination
of automatic deployment and activation may prove to be invaluable in an
emergency, where it might otherwise not have been possible to reach and
manually remove, then activate, the EPIRB.
Each of these models additionally includes a 121.5 MHz VHF Homing
Transmitter and the latest in ultra high performance Solid State Strobe
technology, all to assist in guiding rescuers to your precise location.
Furthermore, unique to the MT403FG, is an inbuilt GPS Receiver System.
Typically within minutes of activation the MT403FG is able to relay its precise
location through the search and rescue satellite system providing nearly
instantaneous alert and location information to the Authorities.
ABOUT THE COSPAS-SARSAT SYSTEM
The COSPAS-SARSAT (C/S) system is a complete global search and rescue
service using geostationary and polar orbiting satellites. Many countries
provide ground facilities known as Local User Terminals (LUT’s).
From their fixed relative position in space C/S geostationary satellites provide
a continuous watch over many regions of the world. They are useful in
providing an immediate alerting capability, and where an active 406 MHz
beacon is also GPS equipped, location information as well to the Authorities.
Each satellite within the constellation of C/S polar orbiting satellites views
a smaller area of the earths surface at any instant, but due to their relative
movement will achieve complete global coverage over time.These polar
orbiting satellites provide both alerting and location information for all types
of active 406 MHz beacons to the Authorities.
The satellite detection of less capable 121.5/243 MHz (only) type beacons is
limited, and will be phased out completely over the coming years.
REGISTRATION AND TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP
Registration of your 406 MHz satellite EPIRB with the Registration Section of
your National Authority is important because of the global alerting nature of
the COSPAS-SARSAT system.
Owner Registration Forms for registering your beacon may be supplied within
the packaging, otherwise, your National Authority will be able to provide the
correct forms. Up to date forms are often available online.
The information provided in the registration is used only for search and
rescue purposes. Promptly fill in the owner registration form upon completion
of the sales transaction, then mail, fax or email it to your National Authority.
If the beacon is to enter service immediately, complete the registration form
and fax or email the information.
Should the beacon be transferred to a new owner, as the previous Owner you
are to inform your National Authority by email, fax, letter or telephone of the
name and address of the new Owner.
The new Owner of the beacon is required to provide their National Authority
with the information as shown on the registration form. This obligation
transfers to all subsequent owners.
NOTE: Your MT403FF/FG has been programmed with a unique identifying code
which will be transmitted by the beacon in an emergency. Registering your
beacon provides the authorities with immediate access to your details when
the beacon is detected. This means they will know who you are, who your
emergency contacts are and what type of vessel or craft you are in. In situations
of accidental activation they can also immediately eliminate your beacon as an
emergency situation by contacting you when activation is detected.
PREVENTING ACCIDENTAL ACTIVATION
The signal from an EPIRB is regarded by authorities as an indication of
distress and is given an appropriate response. It is the responsibility of every
owner of an EPIRB to ensure that it is not activated unintentionally or in
situations that do not justify its use.
The MT403FF/FG will not commence transmitting until approximately 60
seconds after activation, providing a safety period of audible and visual
warning. If you hear the beacon beeping while it is being carried or stowed,
you may still be able to deactivate it during this time period without
actually transmitting a distress signal. If in doubt, report the incident to your
local authorities just in case.
To minimize the possibility of accidental activation, EPIRB owners are urged
to pay careful attention to the following points:
1. Always stow the EPIRB with the switch cover closed and within the
Auto-release housing. The housing and switch cover are designed
specifically to prevent accidental activation.
2. Avoid stowing the EPIRB where it may lie in water.
3. Do not allow children to interfere with the EPIRB and/or housing.
5.
Educate others on board your vessel regarding the consequences of activation.
6. When it comes time to finally discard the beacon follow the DISPOSAL
instructions.
NOTE: The Auto-release Housing temporarily inhibits the EPIRB water activation
operation – always store the beacon within the housing.
INSTALLATION
The MT403FF/FG can be mounted upright against, or horizontally over, a
flat panel or bulkhead. When selecting a location it is vitally important to
consider the following:
• Ready access in an emergency and protection from inadvertent damage.
• In the case of an emergency auto-release, the EPIRB must be able
to surface freely without becoming trapped by the sinking vessel or
entangled with associated external structures. Locate the housing
externally to the vessel in a clear open space; and remember that the
craft may list or roll during submersion.
• It is recommended to select a location high on the vessel. This will ensure
auto-release operation in the event the vessel capsizes without sinking.
• The specied COMPASS SAFE DISTANCE is the minimum allowable
separation between the EPIRB/housing and any magnetic navigational device.
EPIRB Dimensions: 260 mm (h) x 102 mm (w) x 83 mm (d)
Materials: UV stabilized plastic chassis.
Performance: IEC 61097; IEC 60945;
AS/NZS 4280.1;
ETSI EN 300 066
Transport Class : Exempt from UN3091
Patent Number: GB2420058, other patents applied for.
AUTO-RELEASE HOUSING
Release:
Automatically before reaching 4 metres water depth or
manually by operator.
Protection: Impact resistant housing fully encloses EPIRB for
environmental protection.
Mounting: On flat surface fixed at four (4) points to vessel
!Refer to manual for placement.
Housing Weight: 1.1 kg (nominal).
Housing Dimensions: 385.5 mm (h) x 157.5 mm (w) x 102.5 mm (d).
Materials: Marine grade stainless steel and long life UV
Polypropylene stabilised enclosure.
Routine
Service: Fully user replaceable HRU at 2 year intervals as per
applicable authority requirements.
OTHER FEATURES
Retention Lanyard:
Buoyant type approximately 5.5 metres.
Reflector: SOLAS retro-reflective tape encircling unit above waterline.
Solid-state Strobe: High reliability solid state design exceeds
IMO requirements.
Compass Safe
Distance 0.7 m (EPIRB in Auto-release Housing).
*Standard factory setting. Retailer programmable via external interface.
Specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation.
GME SIX (6) YEAR WARRANTY
GME limit this warranty to the original purchaser of the equipment.
GME warrant this product to be free from defects in material and
workmanship for a period of 6 years from the date of purchase from the
authorised retailer.
Replacement of batteries due to expiry or usage is excluded from this Warranty.
Should the product require servicing during this period, all labour and parts
used to effect repairs will be supplied free of charge. GME reserve the right
to determine whether damage has been occasioned by accident, misuse or
improper installation, whereby the Warranty could be void.
In the event of a defect occurring during the Warranty period, the original
purchaser may return the defective unit along with suitable proof of
purchase (i.e. receipt, credit card slip etc.) and a full description of the
defect to the retailer from whom the unit was purchased. The retailer will
forward the unit to an authorised GME Service Depot in your State.
All freight charges incurred for transportation by the retailer or GME are the
purchasers’ responsibility.
EMERGENCY
POSITION INDICATING
RADIO BEACON
EPIRB
406 MHz
Homer/Strobe
AUTO RELEASE
MT403FF
MT403FG
AUTO RELEASE
& INBUILT GPS
P/N: 310406 Dwg No: 44055-2
www.gme.net.au
Standard Communications PTY LTD.
HEAD OFFICE: Locked Bag 2086, North Ryde, N.S.W. 1670,Australia.
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
INTERNATIONAL ENQUIRIES
International enquiries should be direccted to: [email protected]
NATIONAL AUTHORITY DETAILS
Australia
24 hour Emergency Contact
Phone: [phone]
Registration
Beacon Registration Section, AusSAR
Australian Maritime Safety Authority
GPO Box 2181, CanberraACT 2601.
Fax: [phone] Local Only.
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.amsa.gov.au
Phone: Freecall 1 800 406 406 Local only.
[phone] Business hours only, local
or International.
Calls from a mobile attract connection
charges.
New Zealand
24 hour Emergency Contact
Phone: [phone]
Registration
Rescue Co-ordination Centre New Zealand
PO Box: 30050, Lower Hutt 5040
Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Phone: [phone]
NATIONAL DISTRIBUTOR DETAILS
GPS ANTENNA
MT403FG
MT403FF
Patent Number: GB2420058

You may test the EPIRB at any time using the following procedure:
1. Remove the beacon from the bracket. Keep the antenna well clear of
metallic objects during testing.
2. Lift the cover marked ‘LIFT’. 2
3. Briefly press then release the
yellow ‘TEST’ button. 3
4. The unit will give a double beep
and flash of the strobe light to
show it is functioning correctly. 4
5. Close the switch cover and press
firmly into place until it clicks. 5
6. Return the beacon into the bracket.
If the EPIRB fails the testing process you should return it to your retailer or
nearest GME branch office for maintenance.
GPS SATELLITE ACQUISITION TEST (MT403FG ONLY)
The standard self test procedure is more than sufficient to perform a
comprehensive check of your beacon without consuming too much battery
capacity. On occasions, and no more regularly than on average once a year,
you may wish to perform a GPS satellite acquisition check.
Whereas the routine self test verifies the GPS receiver’s circuitry, the full test
will include the operation of the special GPS antenna as well.
1. This test consumes much more power than a standard self test so choose
a test location with good visibility of the open sky above.A quick satellite
acquisition means a short test, and less wasted power consumption.
2. Carry out a self test in the usual way but rather than releasing the key,
continue to hold it in position. After the self test pass confirmation, both
the strobe flash and the internal beeper will start. Count four flashes/
beeps then immediately release the key.
3. The MT403FG will continue to flash and beep whilst it searches for
available satellites.This may continue for a number of minutes depending
on the number and location of satellites present. It is not possible to
abort the test once started, and note that distress signals are not radiated
as part of this test.
4. If no satellites are found after a predetermined time the repetitive flash
and beep will stop.This may indicate a fault with the GPS receiver system
within the EPIRB and you should contact your local service centre for
advice.
If the test terminates with a rapid sequence of flashes and beeps, then GPS
satellite acquisition and correct operation has been confirmed.
UNACCOMPANIED TRANSPORTATION
The MT403FF/FG with its integrated battery isolation and safety features is NOT
subject to UN3091 transport classification.
Consequently under current international regulations no special transport
arrangements are required.
DISPOSAL
Special precautions must be taken when finally disposing of your beacon
at the end of it’s useful life. Legislation may determine the specific
requirements which apply to you. In the first instance contact your National
Authority for advice.
The following information may also be helpful:
• To permanently disable the beacon remove the 4 screws retaining the
cover, open unit, unplug battery lead, then reseal.
• Lithium batteries are generally not considered as hazardous waste when
fully discharged. Qualified personnel may be able to slowly and safely
discharge the cells for you.
DO NOT short circuit the cells or battery. DO NOT incinerate.
SPECIFICATIONS - MT403FF AND MT403FG
MODES OF OPERATION
Activated: UHF (406) and VHF (homer) complete with high intensity
strobe and audible activation alert.
Self test: Comprehensive internal diagnostics with visual and
audible operator feedback. UHF test message (inverted
synchronisation compatible with portable beacon testers).
Full carrier unmodulated VHF test burst
OPERATION
Compliance:
GMDSS Compatible and meets the latest
IMO A810-19 requirements
Activation: Auto or Manual
Duration: 48 hours minimum
Transmission: 121.5 MHz and 406 MHz
Delay: Signals commence ~ 60 seconds after activation
Warm Up: None required (due to digital frequency generation)
VHF: 121.5 MHz, 50 mW ±3 dB, swept tone AM
UHF: 406.028 or 406.037 MHz, 5 W ± 2 dB, PSK (digital)
Strobe: 20 flashes/minute at greater than 0.75 cd
effective intensity
UHF-Protocol/Data: Serial Number*, Radio Call Sign, and MMSI
Repetition Period: 50 s mean, digitally generated randomization
VHF: Satellite compatible phase coherent
BATTERY
Replacement Period:
Prior to expiry date marked on EPIRB case.
Replacement Method: Authorised Service Centre
Chemistry: LiMnO2 (0.49 g Lithium per cell)
Configuration: 5 parallel packs each of 2 series cells.
PHYSICAL
Operating: -20 °C to +55 °C.
Storage: -30 °C to +70 °C.
EPIRB Weight: 555 g (nominal)
Antenna: Flexible self straightening stainless steel design
To install the Auto-release housing:
1. With the cover and EPIRB removed, hold the housing
base in place and
mark the positions of the four (4) location points.
2. Using fasteners appropriate for the selected surface
(not supplied), securely retain the housing base.
3. Now replace the EPIRB then outer cover, verifying
at this time that the cover can be freely removed
and replaced (Refer to the ‘MANUAL RELEASEAND
STOWAGE’ instructions).
4. Using a sharp implement mark (x) the Hydrostatic Release Replacement
Date label on the front cover with the replacement month and year. This
is to be two years from the date of installation.
IN AN EMERGENCY
In an emergency you should first try to use your radio to summon assistance.
Distress procedures should only be used where grave and imminent danger
threatens your craft and assistance is required. Notify the ‘Emergency
Facility’ that you have a beacon and that you will turn it on upon their
instruction.
If dire emergency threatens life and you have been unable to make radio
contact or have lost radio contact, use the beacon.The distress signal
transmitted by your beacon identifies you as a craft in distress and will
initiate an air/sea search and rescue.
Use the Beacon as a last resort.
MANUAL RELEASE AND STOWAGE
To remove the EPIRB from theAuto-release housing:
1. Hold the outer cover while using your free hand to rotate the yellow
lever anti-clockwise 1as shown.
2. Without releasing the lever, remove
the cover 2completely away from
the fixed part of the housing that
holds the beacon.
3. Now firmly grasp the beacon and
withdraw it from the housing. 3
WARNING: DO NOT remove the beacon
from its‘ mounting bracket if wet, it may
automatically activate. Ensure the unit is
thoroughly dry before removal.
To refit the EPIRB:
1. Orientate the beacon such that the side displaying the ‘EMERGENCY
ACTIVATION’ instructions faces outwards.This is necessary for the EPIRB
to engage with the base of the Auto-release housing.
2 . Insert the head of the beacon between the two retention arms ensuring
that the base of the beacon also engages into the housing supports.
3. Now commence replacement of the outer cover firstly engaging it at the
base over the metal retention tongue.
4. Apply firm pressure above the yellow lever to press the cover home. If
necessary, partially and momentarily, rotate the yellow lever anti-clockwise
whilst applying pressure to ensure full and proper engagement of the cover.
5. Finally, verify that the outer cover is securely retained.
MANUAL ACTIVATION
1. Remove the beacon from the bracket.
2. Lift the switch cover (marked ‘LIFT’) to open. 2
3. Slide the ‘ON’ slider switch fully forward in the
direction of the arrows. 3The unit will initially
self test, after two seconds the flashing strobe
and beeps will indicate the beacon is operating.
4. Close the cover to secure the switch.
WATER ACTIVATION
1. Remove the beacon from the bracket.
2. Deploy the beacon in water if sea conditions permit. The unit will initially
self test, then shortly after the flashing strobe and beeps will indicate the
beacon is operating.
The EPIRB has been designed to maintain continuity of operation even when
the units sensors leave the water for periods of several seconds at a time.
Uninterrupted operation is however always best guaranteed by also manually
activating the EPIRB.
If the beacon is to be deployed but not in water the manual activation
method must be used.
MANUAL DEPLOYMENT
Unwind the cord and secure the EPIRB to prevent loss.
When activated, the beacon will transmit the
strongest signal to the satellites when:
• Floating in water.
• Well clear of surrounding and
overhanging objects.
• The antenna is vertical.
In extreme sea conditions, you should NOT
float the EPIRB free of the vessel or the life
raft if there is the possibility of loss or damage
to the EPIRB.
By observing the following guidelines satisfactory operation should be achieved
when operating the EPIRB out of water.
• The EPIRB signal
will not pass through metal but will pass through
fiberglass, wood or fabric with some loss when wet.
• The body of the EPIRB can be attached to metal ttings, but the antenna
must be vertical and clear of the metal.
• If the cabin is metallic (such as steel or aluminium), the EPIRB should be
mounted on a clear space outside with the antenna vertical and clear of
surrounding objects.
of the unit. Prior to reaching this date, make arrangements to have your
MT403FF/FG returned for service.
NOTE: The replacement of batteries due to expiry or usage is not covered by the
product‘s Warranty. EPIRB maintenance operations, including battery replacement,
require that the beacon be returned to a manufacturer approved service facility.
To ensure reliable operation the Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU) mechanism
within the Auto-release Housing must be replaced within two years of being
first placed into service.The replacement date is prominently shown on the
front of the housing.
HRU replacement does not require any particular skills or training, and can
be completed in situ by the owner in under 5 minutes, simply by following
the instructions included within the Float Free Housing Refurbishment Kit
available from your retailer.
Routinely following these few simple steps will help ensure that your beacon
will be operationally ready if called upon:
1. Test the EPIRB at the recommended interval.
2. Confirm the SAFETY SEAL has not been broken.
3. Check that the batteries have not passed their replacement date.
4. Inspect the EPIRB and bracket for damage or deterioration.
5. Keep the unit clean by wiping over with a damp cloth (warm water and
mild detergent are suitable), then dry.
6. Verify that the unit manually releases correctly from the auto-release
housing, and is securely retained when returned to it.
If there is any doubt as to the products’ serviceability, immediately contact
your authorised retailer or service centre for advice.
Some installations may be covered by state, national or international
carriage requirements. Such legislation may impose additional inspection and
maintenance requirements beyond those listed above. Contact the relevant
authority for further information.
SAFETY SEAL
The safety seal which covers the tab behind the ‘ ON’ slider is designed to
tear if the unit is switched on. A safety seal that is not broken serves to
indicate that the beacon has never been manually activated.
NEVER remove or break the seal unless deploying the EPIRB in an emergency.
If the beacon has been activated for any length of time, the batteries can no
longer be guaranteed to have the capacity to operate for the minimum 48
hour period and therefore must be replaced.
TESTING THE EPIRB
It is recommended that you test the MT403FF/FG at regular intervals
(approximately monthly) to ensure it is fully functional. You should also test
the EPIRB prior to an extended journey.
DO NOT over test – testing consumes some battery power.
WARNING: DO NOT remove the EPIRB from its‘ mounting bracket if wet, it may
automatically activate. Ensure the unit is thoroughly dry before removal.
WARNING: Switching a beacon on and
off interferes with the satellites ability to
determine your location. Once activated in
an emergency allow the beacon to operate
without interruption until your rescue.
Normal operation of your beacon will
cease once battery capacity is diminished.
Special circuitry within the MT403FF/FG
however directs any remaining capacity
towards extended operation of the homing transmitter.Although the beacon
may otherwise have appeared to cease functioning, a homing signal will still
be emitted for some considerable time.
TURNING THE EPIRB OFF
It is important that you turn the EPIRB off as soon as possible after being
rescued. If you leave the EPIRB running when it is no longer needed it may
make it more difficult to locate other beacons also transmitting in the area.
1. Remove beacon from the water.
2. Lift the switch cover (marked ‘
LIFT
’).
3. Slide the yellow slider switch fully towards the
‘
READY
’
position.
4. Close the cover to secure the switch.
5. To cancel Water Activation dry the beacon or re-stow the beacon in the
bracket. It may take a number of seconds for the EPIRB to de-activate.
6. Check that both the strobe light and the ‘beep’ have stopped.
IN THE EVENT OF ACCIDENTAL ACTIVATION
If you suspect that an EPIRB has been activated inadvertently, you MUST
turn it off and report it immediately to your National Authority‘s Rescue
Coordination Centre to prevent an unnecessary search. If at sea call your
local VHF coast station, or Rescue Coordination centre. In
international
waters contact a Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre or Coast Radio
Station (CRS) by any available means.
When reporting you should include the following:
1. Your EPIRB’s 15 character Unique Identifier Number (UIN), which is
marked on the unit body.
2. Date, time and duration of activation.
3. Cause of activation.
4. Location at time of activation.
Search and Rescue authorities will not penalize an EPIRB owner or operator
in cases of genuine accidental activation.
BATTERIES AND MAINTENANCE
The MT403FF/FG is fitted with the very latest in high capacity Lithium battery
technology.These batteries are able to operate within a temperature range
of -20°C to +55°C.
The full operational capability of your beacon may not be available if the
batteries fitted have exceeded their replacement date, as shown on the body
METAL
RETENTION ARMS