Commercial in Confidence
Smartfind EPIRB service manual
Page 3
1. INTRODUCTION
The Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is a device used to alert
search and rescue services in the event of an emergency. It activates via a sea water
switch whilst floating in the sea. The EPIRB contains the following functions:
406MHz transmitter
A powerful 5 Watt transmission is encoded with either
a unique serial number or the vessel’s call sign / MMSI.
The signal is relayed via satellite to the rescue centre.
121.5MHz transmitter
A low power transmission is amplitude modulated with
a swept audio tone and acts as a homing beacon. When the
rescue services get close this allows them to direction find on
the signal.
Flashing light (strobe)
A bright light flashes every 2.6 seconds as a visual aid
during the last stage of rescue.
Buzzer
Audible alarm/indicator
GPS receiver (optional)
The module receives and decodes the Global Positioning
System signals from a satellite network and computes the
position of the EPIRB.
The vessels flag state and the vessel identity or unit serial number is programmed into the
EPIRB as part of the 406MHz transmission, thus making the EPIRB unique. Transferring an
EPIRB to another vessel either involves re-programming, or re-registration.
The product is non-hazardous for transportation.
It is available with either a carry-safe manual bracket or auto release cover.
1.1. Scope
This manual provides the instructions to enable routine and emergency servicing of the
EPIRB equipment listed below. This manual represents the original equipment
manufacturer’s (OEM) service documentation applicable to these products.
Shore based maintenance procedures (in accordance with IMO Circ 1039) is covered in
82-1039 and annual inspection (in accordance with IMO Circ 1040) is covered in 82-
1040.
1.2. Applicability
This manual applies to the following 406MHz EPIRB equipment:
•
McMurdo Smartfind Plus or G5
GPS
•
McMurdo Smartfind or E5
Non-GPS
•
Sailor SGE406-II
GPS
•
Sailor SE406-II
Non-GPS
•
Simrad EG50
GPS
•
Simrad EP50
Non-GPS
Units without integral GPS have serial numbers beginning with 100.
Units with integral GPS have serial numbers beginning with 200.
