ACR GlobalFix V6 EPIRB with RLS and Mobile App
$860.00 – $1,000.00
PLEASE NOTE: All ACR units carried by GPS Central are encoded for Canada, can only be shipped to a Canadian address and must be registered with the Canadian Government: https://www.cbr-rcb.ca/cbr/
The new ACR GlobalFix V6 EPIRB is a versatile Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon suitable for use on both recreational and commercial vessels. High tech features like Return Link Service (RLS) reassure users by confirming that the beacon has successfully sent the distress message and that this message has been received.
ACR, the world leader in electronic marine safety devices, introduces a new high tech EPIRB (Emergency Positioning Radio Beacon). The new ACR GlobalFix V6 EPIRB uses 406 MHz satellite connectivity to transmit emergency signals to the global Cospas Sarsat satellite rescue system. Return Link Service (RLS) technology provides visual confirmation to the user that their distress message has been received. A 121.5 MHz homing signal helps rescuers find the activated beacon when they are on scene. Visible and infrared strobe lights aid in target identification at night or when visibility is limited speeding rescue and recovery. A new feature called Near Field Communication (NFC) lets users monitor their EPIRB’s functions using a smartphone App. ACR is dedicated to marine safety and the new GlobalFix V6 EPIRB provides sophisticated rescue technology in a durable and reliable device that works globally.
Reliable Worldwide Digital Mayday Tells Rescuers Where to Search.
The ACR GlobalFix V6 EPIRB accurately derives its position globally through the GNSS (GPS, Galileo, Glonass) positioning networks. Triggering the device produces a digital mayday using a 406 MHz distress transmission that relays the GPS EPIRB (GPIRB) position, accurate to within 100 meters, to the worldwide Cospas Sarsat search and rescue satellite network. Position information and vessel identification are then relayed by the satellites to ground stations which ultimately helps decide the scope of rescue operation to be launched. Once the EPIRB is activated, a 121.5 MHz signal is transmitted in addition to the higher frequency satellite signal. This 121.5 MHz homing signal aids rescuers in finding the device when they arrive upon the rescue scene, particularly important if the beacon has drifted from its original location. The GlobalFix V6 EPIRB also emits both a visual and infrared strobe to help rescuers pinpoint the beacon and speed rescue operations.
Near Field Communication (NFC) Ensures the EPIRB is Functioning Properly
Using ACR’s free smartphone app and NFC (Near Field Communication) technology users can easily access EPIRB diagnostics. Placing a smartphone adjacent to the GlobalFix V6 EPIRB opens the ACR Product App which shows EPIRB data. The app shows the current battery life of the beacon, the number of GNSS and self-tests completed, and the amount of time the EPIRB has been activated. Users can see detailed information on each self-test and GNSS test performed by the device. GNSS tests include a map view demonstrating where previous tests were performed, the date and time of the tests, how long it took the EPIRB to get a fix on the GNSS coordinates, the number of satellites used to obtain that fix, and the fix’s accuracy. NFC allows users to routinely check the status of all EPIRB functions to ensure it is working properly and ready to go in case of an emergency.
Return Link Service (RLS)
Return Link Service indicates to the user that an EPIRB’s rescue transmission has been received. The RLS signal is sent back through the Galileo satellite network confirming that the digital mayday including precise beacon location and identifiers have been delivered. An easy to see flashing blue light indicates the EPIRB’s successful reception of the Return Link message through the Galileo satellite network. Those in distress who have triggered the beacon and received the RLS confirmation know that rescuers will be made aware of the EPIRB activation and location and that rescue operations will be launched.
ACR is a globally recognized leader in marine electronic rescue devices and other life-saving products. They build quality rescue equipment solutions like the new ACR GlobalFix V6 EPIRB that are suitable for all types and sizes of vessels in both the recreational and commercial sectors. Long life Lithium batteries, global 406 MHz satellite transmission, a 121.5 MHz homing signal, visual and infrared strobes, and Return Link Service that tells users their rescue signal has been received are all packed into a durable waterproof beacon. Near Field Communication and the free ACR App allow users to check the EPIRB status for added reliability. Mariners coastal cruising, working offshore or crossing oceans will appreciate the advanced features of the GlobalFix V6 EPIRB.
| Weight | N/A |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | N/A |
| Brand | ACR |
| Bracket | Category 1 – Automatic Release Bracket, Category 2 – Manual Release Bracket |
| Manufacturer Part Number |
Specifications
ACR GlobalFix V6 EPIRB with RLS and Mobile App Specs
| Output Power (406/121.5) | 406.040 MHz, 5W (nominal) / 121.5 MHz, 50mW (nominal) |
| RLS | Return Link Service (RLS) confirmation direct to beacon |
| NFC / Mobile App | Near Field Communication (NFC) and Mobile App Included |
| Strobe | White & Infrared |
| Size (antenna up) – Beacon Only | 18.5” x 4.3” x 4.36” (470 mm x 109 mm x 111 mm) |
| Weight – Beacon Only | 1.78 lbs (810 G) |
| Battery | Lithium battery, Li/FeS2 |
| Battery Replacement | 10-year replaceable battery (replace 10 years after the date of manufacture or after activation) |
| Temperature Range (Class 2) | Storage: -22°F to +158°F (-30°C to +70°C) Operating: -4°F to +131°F (-20°C to +55°C) |
| GPS | 72 Channel Multi-constellation receiver (GPS, Galileo, & Glonass GNSS) |
| Activation | Out of bracket and wet, or manually in or out of the bracket (Class 3 – manual activation only) |
| Waterproof | 33 ft (10 m) for 5 min. |
| Buoyant | Yes |
| Operational Life | 48 hours minimum @ -4°F (-20°C) |
| Deployment | Category I – Hydrostatic Release (auto deploy) or Category II – Manual Release (manual deploy) |
| Warranty | 5 years |
| Accessories | EPIRB Mounting Hardware (Included – P/N 9657) Cat I Bracket (P/N 9660) Cat II Bracket (P/N 9656) HRU (P/N 9490.1) |
| Approvals | Cospas-Sarsat, FCC, RED |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is an EPIRB?
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) are distress radio beacons that transmit location information about ships directly to Search and Rescue forces letting them know that the owner is in grave and imminent danger. Learn How A Rescue Works
Q: What is RLS or Return Link Service?
Return Link Service or RLS enables newly approved EPIRB, PLB, and ELT allowing for a confirmation signal (Example: blue light flashing or message if the beacon has a digital display) that the distress signal from the beacon has been received and localized by the Cospas-Sarsat system and forwarded to government authorities for action. It does NOT mean that a rescue has yet been organized/launched, only that the distress alert has been received and routed to the appropriate government agencies. The RLS confirmation signal or message should typically be received back to the RLS beacon between 10-20 minutes as Search and Rescue is working to facilitate your rescue. Learn more about Return Link Service
Q: What is a GPIRB?
Some people call a GPS EPIRB or a GPS enabled Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon a GPIRB with the G simply identifying that the EPIRB has an internal GPS.
Q: Whats the difference between an AIS EPIRB and a traditional EPIRB?
AIS EPIRBs will offer both recreational and commercial users the extra reassurance that other nearby vessels equipped with an AIS Transceiver will be notified in an emergency, in addition to the beacon’s traditional capabilities to transmit a 406 MHz distress signal via the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system to contact global rescue services. The addition of the AIS locating signal ensures a survivors immediate location will also be received by all vessels and aircraft equipped with AIS in the vicinity, enabling them to respond with immediate assistance, potentially ahead of Search and Rescue.
Q: What is NFC?
Near-field communication (NFC) is a short-range wireless connectivity technology that uses magnetic field induction to enable communication between devices when they’re touched together or brought within a few centimeters of each other. The beacons data and activity is stored and when your phone is within range, the beacons NFC uses the phones power to push the data into your phone and into your Beacons Mobile App.
Q: Will 406 MHz beacons work anywhere in the world?
Yes, 406 MHz beacons can be used anywhere in the world, including at both poles, just remember that you need a clear view of the sky (they will not work in buildings or caves, etc.)
Q: Is there a subscription fee for beacon registration or rescue service?
Beacon registration is free, should you ever have to activate your beacon, rescue is free in most parts of the world.
Q: What is the difference between a Category I and a Category II EPIRB?
The difference is in how the EPIRB is deployed from the provided EPIRB bracket. A Category I beacon automatically deploys when a vessel sinks. The beacon floats free at a depth of 1.5 to 3.0m (4.9 to 13.1ft). The EPIRB can be manually activated while in its bracket or manually removed and activated. A Category II beacon is manually deployed. The EPIRB will automatically activate when removed from its bracket and comes in contact with water, or when it is still in its bracket but a person has lifted the switch to the activation position.
Both the Category 1 and Category 2 brackets will deactivate the EPIRBs water sensor feature so if the EPIRB should get wet while in the bracket, it will not cause a false alarm. EPIRB water activation is only possible when the EPIRB has been removed from the bracket and gets wet.
Q: How do I register my beacon?
406 MHz Beacons must be registered with the National Authority of the country you live in.
In Canada, go to https://www.cbr-rcb.ca/cbr/ to register your beacon.
Q: Why is it so important for me to register my beacon?
Registering the EPIRB, ELT, or Personal Locator Beacon is required by law in the United States and most countries. Registering is very important because should your beacon ever be activated, it is how Search and Rescue Teams will know who you are, and contacts provided may be able to supply information about your specific travel plans. In the absence of this information, it may take longer for a search-and-rescue operation to begin.
Q: How do I know the beacon is working?
Perform a monthly self-test. If the test passes, the beacon is working. If self-test does not pass, take/send the beacon in for service.
If your EPIRB has NFC and the new ACR Mobile App, you can also view your EPIRBs detailed test results by scanning the NFC antenna and pulling the beacons data into your ACR Mobile App.
If you want to know that your beacon signal is reaching the satellite system and your signal is being received back down to earth please check out our advanced testing service called 406Link.com.
Q: How often should an EPIRB be tested?
The beacon owners manual recommends the frequency of these tests; typical advice is once a month and/or before extended trips. Advanced Satellite Testing can be performed using our new service called 406Link.com.
If your EPIRB has NFC and the new ACR Mobile App, you can also view your EPIRBs detailed test results by scanning the NFC antenna and pulling the beacons data into your ACR Mobile App.
Q: The date on my HydroFix™ Release Unit is not marked. What do I do?
The HydroFix should be marked by the owner at the time of installation with an indelible ink pen. The HydroFix Release Unit is good three years from the date of manufacture (which is imprinted on the bottom of the HydroFix?) or 2 years from the date of installation. See the example below: MFG.0622 means the HRU was made June (06) of 2022. Thus this unit will need to be replaced 2 years from the date installed or in June of 2024. HRU MFG Date
Q: How do I maintain an EPIRB?
Taking care of a beacon is quick and easy. Routine maintenance is part of having the beacon ready at all times. Follow the maintenance recommendations in the Owner’s Manual and be sure to regularly self test your beacon to ensure it is working properly.
Q: Can I use my 406 MHz beacons anywhere in the world?
You should check the local regulations of any place you plan to visit with your beacon, some countries require you to have a radio license and a few countries have restrictions on the use of beacons, however, if it’s a real emergency you should always activate your beacon.
Q: What is a UIN and where do I find it on the beacon so I can register my beacon?
A UIN or Unique Identifier Number that is programmed into each beacon at the factory. The UIN number consists of 15 digit series of letters and numbers that make up the unique identity of the beacon. The UIN is on a white label on the exterior of the beacon. The UIN is also referred to as the Hex ID. If your EPIRB has NFC and the new ACR Mobile App, you can also get your UIN by scanning the NFC antenna and pulling the beacons data into your ACR Mobile App.
Q: How long doe EPIRBs last?
EPIRBs are required to transmit for a minimum of 48 hours continuously at -4°F (-20°C ) all the way up to +131°F (+55°C).
Warranty
ACR units are life saving devices. They are held to the highest standard and ACR must follow strict regulations. All faulty ACR units must be returned to the manufacturer. If you are getting a red light instead of all greens, your unit is faulty. Please contact us for ACR’s return procedure. If you need a replacement unit right away you have to purchase a new unit. All units need to be inspected and resolved at ACR’s discretion. If ACR deems the original unit faulty, you may receive a refund, a replacement unit or the unit will be repaired. If the ACR unit is not deemed faulty, it will be returned to you and ACR will charge for shipping and an inspection fee.