McMurdo G8 SmartFind AIS EPIRB (Manual Release Unit)

 SmartFind G8 AIS EPIRB is the world’s first EPIRB to feature AIS. This is a Category 2 EPIRB meaning that once manually removed from its bracket, the device will alert authorities that rescue is required. The G8 EPIRB gives greater location accuracy by receiving GNSS coordinates from multiple satellite constellations.  AIS capability also allows the device to send distress alerts to nearby AIS-equipped vessels for an increased chance of a fast rescue.

When the SmartFind G8 is activated it transmits a coded message on the 406 MHz distress frequency which is monitored by the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system. The alert is then relayed via an earth station to the nearest Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC). With an EPIRB you can summon help wherever you are on the planet, subscription free, no matter how remote!

SmartFind G8 comes with a manual release bracket and features a self-test feature to give you peace of mind before setting off that your EPIRB is working. The 10 year battery life provides a long term solution and excellent value for money.

McMurdo SmartFind G8 AIS EPIRB Key Features:

GPS Transmission

Upon initiation of a distress call, the McMurdo SmartFind built-in GPS will fix your position to within a few meters and then utilizes a powerful 406 MHz signal to relay your distress call to orbiting satellites. When triggered, broadcast a unique registered distress signal that not only tells rescuers where you are, but who you are.

An additional feature is the 121.5 MHz secondary homing transmitter which means that once Search and Rescue teams have been deployed, they are able to home in on your exact location. 

AIS Transmission

In addition to GPS transmission, the McMurdo SmartFind has an AIS capability to send distress alerts to nearby AIS equipped vessels for an increased chance at a fast rescue.

Strobe Light

This McMurdo EPIRB has a high brightness flashing LED strobe light to enhance visibility in low light environments or night rescues. 

Battery Life

The McMurdo G8 SmartFind AIS EPIRB has a storage battery life of up to 10 years! Upon activation, the McMurdo SmartFind EPIRB will operate for a minimum of 48 hours. 

Self-Test

It is necessary to self-test your McMurdo EPIRB to ensure that the beacon functions correctly. The G8 SmartFind EPIRB offers a comprehensive self test facility with battery use indicator.

Activation 

The McMurdo SmartFind G8 (Automatic) can be activated when in contact with water as well as when a manual release bracket is deployed, in the event of an emergency, to provide authorities at sea with a precise pinpoint location to send to rescue co-ordination centres (RCC) and nearby AIS equipped vessels.

Registration

Registering your EPIRB is required by law in 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.

Some national authorities require a completed registration application form to be submitted by letter or fax, others offer an online registration. For more information, visit the emergency beacon registration database IBRD at www.406registration.com and also www.cospas-sarsat.org. The addresses of the national authorities are listed on these sites.

All PLBs and EPIRBs sold by OSAT are pre-programmed with the UK country code. Whilst they will function anywhere around the world, the initial point of contact during an emergency situation would be the UK Search & Rescue authorities with whom the device would be registered. Please contact us if you wish to have your EPIRB shipped with configuration for use in a country other than UK.

This EPIRB should only be used in situations of grave and imminent danger to life. False alerts endanger lives and cause expensive disruption to Search & Rescue services. Deliberate misuse of the device could result in a penalty.