ACR Electronics RLB-33S - REV D Product Support Manual

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ACR Electronics RLB-33S - REV D Product Support Manual Manual pdf 15 page image

Y1-03-0180 Rev. D124.8.2 Using the GPS interface: Once a compatible operating GPS receiver is connected to the beacon, thebeacon will store GPS data for incorporation into the emergency message, which is transmitted to thesatellite. This can provide more accurate positioning data to the national authority and may lead to fasterresponse. Since the last valid GPS position data is always kept in the memory of the beacon, the usershould take care to make sure that the GPS position data stored is accurate. This can be accomplished bytwo methods: First, by always leaving a properly functioning GPS receiver connected to the beacon beforeactivation. Second, by connecting a properly functioning GPS receiver with a valid position fix to thebeacon and allowing sufficient time for the beacon to acquire valid position data from the GPS. This willtake a nominal 20 minutes if old GPS position data is stored in the beacon’s memory. If GPS data is notstored, the beacon will acquire current data within a minute of being connected to a GPS with a validposition fix. You can force the beacon to update its position at any time by initiating the beacon’s self-test,see 4.8.3 and 4.8.4. If valid GPS position data is not available, it is preferable to reset the beacon with thebeacon’s default message (See Section 4.8.5).4.8.3 Testing the GPS interface: Connect the optical interface plug to the beacon bezel and allow sufficient timefor the GPS receiver to acquire valid GPS position data (usually less than 1 minute; but it can take up to 30minutes). Lift the thumb switch to the vertical (self-test) position and release. Your beacon will confirm thatit has acquired valid GPS data by emitting a beep along with a flash of the red and green LEDs. This willoccur approximately 2.5 seconds after the self-test.4.8.4 Updating GPS position data: When the beacon is properly connected to a functioning and compatibleGPS receiver, GPS position data is automatically updated about every 20 minutes, while valid GPSposition data is present. The operator can force the acquisition of new GPS position data, by executingself-test of the beacon. This bypasses the normal, programmed, waiting time of 20 minutes for theautomatic update of GPS position data. Once the beacon has completed the self-test sequence by emittingthe beep and flash of red and green LEDs, as described in 4.8.3, the beacon will request and acquire newposition data from the GPS. This can take a nominal 15 seconds or up to one minute.NOTE: When the beacon is not activated, GPS position data will be received and stored by the beacon(No GPS position data updates will occur while the beacon is activated. However, subsequentposition information is determined by the COSPAS-SARSAT Satellite System as described inSection 6.)4.8.5 Position data set to default: A new ThunderBird SSAS is programmed with the GPS position data set to“default”. This “default” GPS position data indicates, upon activation, to the satellite system that the beaconhas no valid GPS position stored in memory. Once a functioning and compatible GPS receiver is properlyconnected to the beacon, this “default” data will be replaced by valid GPS position data, as described inthe previous sections.Position data will be reset to default by activating the beacon (by placing the thumb switch in the readyposition and then pressing one of the remote activation points) and then turning the beacon off by returningthe thumb switch to the off position. Once the beacon is in ON mode, it must be turned OFF within 45seconds to prevent transmission of a live burst. Because the activation points must be remote from thebeacon, it is recommended that two people with 2-Way radios perform this procedure to prevent falsealarms.NOTE: THIS BEACON IS AUTHORIZED FOR USE ONLY DURING SITUATIONS WHERE THESECURITY OF YOUR VESSEL IS UNDER THREAT OR HAS BEEN COMPROMISED AND POLICEACTION IS REQUIRED.ALSO NOTE: The action of turning the beacon ON and then OFF clears any stored GPS position data.SECTION 5 - CARE AND MAINTENANCE5.1 At least every ninety days, the mounting bracket, antenna and beacon should be inspected fordeterioration and/or buildup that may affect the function of the beacon or it’s mounting.Also carefully inspect the beacon case for any visible cracks. Cracks may admit moisture, which couldfalsely activate the beacon or otherwise cause a malfunction. Any cracking observed should beimmediately referred to ACR for evaluation, (1-800-432-0227 Ext. 112).