ACR&Artex MicroFix 406 GPS PLB - Manual (Page 8)

Y1-03-0215-1 Rev. C 7
SECTION 5 - CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Carefully inspect the PLB case and gasket for any visible cracks or damage after any abusive use. Cracks may
admit moisture, which could cause a malfunction. In the event of any cracking or structural damage, the PLB
should be immediately sent to ACR for evaluation and repairs, (Call toll free 1-800-432-0227 or +1 (954) 981-
3333).
Do not clean your PLB with household cleaners and materials such as gasoline, benzene, bleach, sanitizers,
soaps, etc. To clean, simply wipe your PLB down with a damp cloth. Use care not to falsely activate your PLB.
5.1 Battery Replacement
Power is provided by self contained long life batteries with a five-year recommended replacement cycle. See
Factory Authorized Service Center for replacement.
The batteries (P/N 1100) must be replaced by the date indicated on the PLB. At each inspection, check the time
remaining until replacement is required. Batteries should be replaced if the PLB has been activated for any use
other than the self test, or when the battery witness seal has been broken (see section 3.7).
Batteries should be replaced at an Authorized Battery Replacement Center. Services include: replacement of
battery packs and disposal of expired lithium batteries, gasket and O-ring examination and replacement if
necessary, lubricated gaskets and O-ring, air pressure test to ensure watertight integrity, and a full electronics
diagnostic check.
NOTE: This unit is a life saving device and all repairs and replacements need to be made by ACR or an authorized
ACR battery replacement center to ensure the beacon will perform properly when called upon.
For the nearest location of an authorized ACR service center visit our website at
www.acrartex.com or call
1-800-432-0227 or +1 (954) 981-3333.
SECTION 6 - THE SEARCH AND RESCUE SYSTEM
6.1 General Overview
The PLB provides a distress message on 406 MHz to satellites of the COSPAS-SARSAT network and to the
GEOSAR network that includes GPS latitude and longitude coordinates when GPS data is present.
The message transmitted is unique for each PLB, which provides identification of the transmitter through computer
access of registration files maintained by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or other National
Authority. Remember, if your PLB is not registered, Search and Rescue (SAR) Authorities do not know who you
are, or how to contact anyone who might know anything about your situation (Refer to section 1).
Once the signal (406 MHz) is relayed through the LEOSAR and/or GEOSAR network, SAR forces determine who is
closest, and then track the signal using the 121.5 MHz homing frequency for intermediate and short-range location.
6.2 Satellite Detection
The PLB transmits to the satellite portion of the COSPAS-SARSAT System. COSPAS-SARSAT is an international
system that uses Russian Federation and United States low altitude, near-polar orbiting satellites (LEOSAR) that
assist in detecting and locating activated 121.5/243 MHz beacons and 406 MHz Satellite beacons.
COSPAS and SARSAT satellites receive distress signals from PLBs transmitting on the frequency of 406 MHz. The
COSPAS-SARSAT 406 MHz beacon signal consists of a transmission of non-modulated carriers followed by a
digital message format that provides identification data. The 406 MHz system uses Satellite-borne equipment to
measure and store the Doppler-shifted frequency along with the beacons 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.
The LUT processes the Doppler-shifted signal from the LEOSAR and determines the location of the beacon; then
the LUT relays the position of the distress to a Mission Control Center (MCC) where the distress alert and location
information is immediately forwarded to an appropriate Rescue Coordination Center (RCC). The RCC dispatches
Search and Rescue (SAR) forces.