This manually released EPIRB emergency beacon is an Ocean Signal rescueME EPIRB1 for maritime distress alerting on leisure and commercial vessels. The integrated 66-channel GPS transmits the position and the device identity via the Cospas-Sarsat system at 406.040 MHz, while a 121.5 MHz homing transmitter supports final localization during a rescue operation.
The EPIRB is manually removed from the included quick-release bracket and does not automatically release from the vessel. Once the device is released, it can be activated manually or automatically upon immersion in water. It floats and can be used in the water, standing on the deck with a clear view of the sky, or in a vertical position in a liferaft.
Two high-intensity LED strobe lights flash 20-30 times per minute to increase visual visibility. The manually extendable antenna has a length of 25.5 cm when extended. The integrated lanyard is intended for attachment to a person or liferaft after activation and must not be attached to a sinking vessel.
The Class 2 construction is intended for operation from -20 °C to +55 °C and storage from -30 °C to +70 °C. The battery consists of two 9 V LB8E modules with a total of six CR123 cells and provides more than 48 hours of active operation at -20 °C. The battery replacement interval is 10 years, and battery service must be performed by an authorized Ocean Signal service center.
The included bracket is mounted on a flat bulkhead with three screws and must be placed in an easily accessible location. The mounting points have a horizontal center distance of approximately 29 mm between the upper holes and a vertical center distance of approximately 50 mm to the lower hole. Keep at least 1 meter away from steering compasses and avoid placement near strong magnetic sources. The standard bracket is intended for interior or protected areas.
The unit has standard self-testing of the 406 MHz, 121.5 MHz, and strobe functions, as well as a separate GPS self-test. Up to 12 GPS self-tests can be performed per battery life cycle. The EPIRB must be registered with the relevant national beacon authority with the unit's 15-digit HEX ID/UIN. The warranty is 2 years and can be extended to a total of 5 years upon product registration.
The product complies with RED 2014/53/EU and relevant requirements from Cospas-Sarsat, IEC, and RTCM. It measures 178 × 89 × 100 mm and weighs 422 g. The replacement bracket for Class 2 has manufacturer no. 703S-01600, while the LB8E battery service kit has manufacturer no. 703S-01608.
Key featuresManual release from quick-release bracket
Automatic activation after immersion in water
406.040 MHz satellite transmitter and 121.5 MHz homing transmitter
Integrated 66-channel GPS
Two high-intensity LED strobe lights
More than 48 hours of operation at -20 °C
10-year battery replacement interval
Class 2: -20 °C to +55 °C
Self-test and GPS self-test
RED and Cospas-Sarsat compliant
