EPIRB (406 MHz) Category II
medium
34 / 34 models (Inspector)
A Category II EPIRB is manually activated and manually released from its bracket rather than floating free from a hydrostatic release, so it depends on someone reaching it and pulling it clear before the ship goes down.
Read more — EPIRB (406 MHz) Category II explained ▾
What sets Category II apart
A Category II EPIRB is manually activated and manually released from its bracket; it will not float free and self-activate if the ship sinks, unlike a Category I EPIRB, which sits in a hydrostatic release unit and releases automatically. Category II beacons are typically fitted where a Category I is not required by the vessel's SOLAS category, or as a secondary manually-carried beacon in addition to a Category I unit on the same vessel.
Main components
Beacon body and battery
A watertight housing containing the transmitter, GNSS receiver, and a dedicated primary battery sealed for a shelf life typically around five years, after which the battery, and often the whole unit, must be replaced regardless of how little it has been used.
406 MHz distress transmitter
Transmits a digitally coded distress burst on 406 MHz to the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system, encoding the vessel's identity so a rescue coordination centre can trace the ship even before voice contact is made.
Integrated GNSS position
Modern units include a GPS or GNSS receiver that embeds position in the 406 MHz distress message, cutting the time to an accurate fix from the older Doppler-only satellite method, which could take an orbit pass or more, down to the first transmission.
121.5 MHz homing signal
A secondary low-power homing transmission on 121.5 MHz lets search aircraft and vessels close in on the beacon's exact position using a direction-finding receiver once the search area has been narrowed by the 406 MHz alert.
Manual bracket
Category II beacons are stowed in a bracket on the bridge or another accessible position for quick manual release; the crew must physically retrieve and activate the unit, so bracket accessibility and a clear release action matter as much as the beacon itself.
Regulations and class
SOLAS Ch. IV sets carriage requirements for EPIRBs by ship category and area of operation; GMDSS regulations require the beacon to be registered with the national beacon registry so a Cospas-Sarsat alert resolves immediately to vessel identity and an emergency contact. Battery expiry date is checked at annual radio survey, and an expired battery is a deficiency even if the beacon still passes a self-test.
Typical faults
- Battery past expiry date: beacon may still self-test but cannot be relied on for full transmission duration in an actual distress.
- Registration details out of date, such as an old vessel name or contact number: delays rescue coordination even after a valid alert.
- Corroded or seized bracket release mechanism: beacon cannot be freed quickly in an emergency.
- GPS antenna or receiver fault: beacon transmits a distress alert without position, forcing rescuers to rely on satellite Doppler positioning alone.
- Self-test not performed as part of routine checks: a failing beacon is only discovered during an actual emergency.
What to look for in a supplier
- Cospas-Sarsat type approval certificate for the specific model and, where relevant, flag administration acceptance.
- Battery and unit expiry clearly marked, with a straightforward replacement process rather than a full unit return for minor servicing.
- Support for updating registration details when the vessel is sold or reflagged.
- Self-test function that checks transmitter, GPS, and battery condition without triggering an actual satellite alert.
Run the self-test monthly and log it: a Cospas-Sarsat alert that resolves to outdated contact details wastes exactly the minutes a real distress cannot spare.
20 manufacturers · 34 models
McMurdo
4
SmartFind E8 Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Float free
nein
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery expiry or degradation reduces endurance and may cause failed self-test or low-battery indication
- Antenna damage or poor deployment reduces transmitted signal effectiveness and may be visible during inspection
- Water ingress or corrosion damages electronics and can cause failed self-test or unreliable activation
- Manual or automatic release mechanisms can seize or be incorrectly fitted, preventing proper deployment
- Incorrect programming, identification data or registration can complicate distress identification even when the beacon transmits
Service: Inspect casing, antenna, mounting, seals, labels and release arrangement and perform only the approved self-test procedure. Verify battery and hydrostatic-release dates where applicable, beacon identification and required registration records. Do not perform unauthorized live distress transmissions; exact test procedures and replacement intervals must follow manufacturer and statutory documentation.
Spare Parts: Carry only maker-approved replaceable items such as mounting clips, lanyards or straps and batteries where onboard replacement is permitted; hydrostatic-release units and sealed battery packs are normally replaced as complete approved items.
Use Cases: Used for GMDSS distress alerting, survivor location, search-and-rescue and man-overboard response depending on the specific beacon category.
SmartFind G8 GPS Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Float free
nein
Gnss type
GPS/GLONASS
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Expired or degraded battery capacity caused by age or poor storage can produce failed self-tests or reduced emergency operating capability
- Antenna damage, corrosion, or poor deployment condition can reduce transmission or homing performance
- Water ingress or damaged housing seals can cause corrosion, intermittent operation, or failed self-test
- Incorrect registration, programming, or position-data interface can result in missing or incorrect identification or location information
- Release bracket, hydrostatic release, activation switch, or lanyard defects can prevent proper deployment or activation when required
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, identification and registration data, battery and release-device expiry status where applicable, housing and antenna condition, seals, lanyard, and the manufacturer's permitted self-test. Do not make live distress transmissions during routine checks.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting or release hardware, seals and lanyard items where replaceable, and the manufacturer-specified battery or service kit through an authorized service arrangement. Exact parts and replacement intervals must follow the manufacturer documentation.
Use Cases: Used on merchant ships, passenger ships, offshore vessels, fishing vessels, workboats, survival craft, and personnel where the applicable distress or man-overboard function is required.
Kannad XS-4 Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery deterioration prevents reliable emergency endurance and is identified during inspection or self-test
- Antenna damage or corrosion reduces transmission reliability and can cause failed self-test indication
- Water ingress or damaged seals causes corrosion, intermittent operation or failure
- Hydrostatic-release or mounting defects on float-free units prevent correct deployment
- Programming or registration mismatch results in incorrect vessel identity data
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, release arrangement, casing, antenna, labels and approved self-test indication. Verify battery and release-device validity against equipment records and confirm beacon identity and registration. Do not perform unauthorized live transmissions. Exact test and replacement requirements follow manufacturer and regulatory documentation.
Spare Parts: Maintain approved mounting and release hardware and arrange certified replacement batteries or hydrostatic-release units as required; minor spares may include seals, lanyards and fasteners where supported.
Use Cases: GMDSS-equipped merchant, passenger and offshore vessels requiring emergency satellite distress alerting.
SmartFind E9 RLS Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Return link service
ja
Second gen
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Expired or degraded battery capacity caused by age or poor storage can produce failed self-tests or reduced emergency operating capability
- Antenna damage, corrosion, or poor deployment condition can reduce transmission or homing performance
- Water ingress or damaged housing seals can cause corrosion, intermittent operation, or failed self-test
- Incorrect registration, programming, or position-data interface can result in missing or incorrect identification or location information
- Release bracket, hydrostatic release, activation switch, or lanyard defects can prevent proper deployment or activation when required
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, identification and registration data, battery and release-device expiry status where applicable, housing and antenna condition, seals, lanyard, and the manufacturer's permitted self-test. Do not make live distress transmissions during routine checks.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting or release hardware, seals and lanyard items where replaceable, and the manufacturer-specified battery or service kit through an authorized service arrangement. Exact parts and replacement intervals must follow the manufacturer documentation.
Use Cases: Used on merchant ships, passenger ships, offshore vessels, fishing vessels, workboats, survival craft, and personnel where the applicable distress or man-overboard function is required.
ACR Electronics
3
GlobalFix V4 Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery or power-supply deterioration caused by age, poor charging or connection faults can produce low-voltage alarms, failed self-tests or inability to transmit
- Antenna, feeder or connector damage caused by corrosion, water ingress or mechanical stress can reduce range or prevent transmission and reception
- Programming or configuration errors after replacement can produce identity, channel or communication faults even when the hardware powers up
- Control, display or internal electronics faults caused by ageing or moisture can result in failed tests, unreadable indications or intermittent operation
- Release, mounting or protective enclosure problems on emergency equipment caused by corrosion or damage can prevent correct deployment or leave the unit physically insecure
Service: Check identification and programming against vessel records, inspect antennas, feeders, mounts and power sources, and perform only the approved self-tests or functional checks. Verify battery and release dates from the actual unit and service documentation rather than assuming intervals. Refer to manufacturer and statutory documentation for exact test procedures.
Spare Parts: Carry approved batteries only where shipboard replacement is permitted, together with fuses, handset or microphone accessories, connectors, protective covers and other maker-approved service items appropriate to the installed unit.
Use Cases: SOLAS ships and other vessels requiring distress alerting, search-and-rescue location, maritime safety information or routine marine radio communications.
GlobalFix V5 Cat II GPS
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Gnss type
GPS/Galileo
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Expired or degraded battery capacity from age or poor storage causes failed self-tests or reduced emergency operating capability
- Antenna damage, corrosion, or poor deployment condition reduces transmission or homing performance
- Water ingress or damaged housing seals causes corrosion, intermittent operation, or failed self-test
- Incorrect registration, programming, or position-data interface can result in missing or incorrect identification or location information
- Release bracket, hydrostatic release, activation switch, or lanyard defects can prevent proper deployment or activation
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, identification and registration data, battery and release-device expiry status where applicable, housing and antenna condition, seals, lanyard, and the manufacturer-permitted self-test. Do not make live distress transmissions during routine checks.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting or release hardware, seals and lanyard items where replaceable, and arrange manufacturer-specified battery or service kits through an authorized service provider.
Use Cases: Used on merchant ships, passenger ships, offshore vessels, fishing vessels, workboats, survival craft, and personnel where the applicable distress-locating function is required.
GlobalFix V6 RLS Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Return link service
ja
Second gen
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Expired or degraded battery capacity from age or poor storage causes failed self-tests or reduced emergency operating capability
- Antenna damage, corrosion, or poor deployment condition reduces transmission or homing performance
- Water ingress or damaged housing seals causes corrosion, intermittent operation, or failed self-test
- Incorrect registration, programming, or position-data interface can result in missing or incorrect identification or location information
- Release bracket, hydrostatic release, activation switch, or lanyard defects can prevent proper deployment or activation
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, identification and registration data, battery and release-device expiry status where applicable, housing and antenna condition, seals, lanyard, and the manufacturer-permitted self-test. Do not make live distress transmissions during routine checks.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting or release hardware, seals and lanyard items where replaceable, and arrange manufacturer-specified battery or service kits through an authorized service provider.
Use Cases: Used on merchant ships, passenger ships, offshore vessels, fishing vessels, workboats, survival craft, and personnel where the applicable distress-locating function is required.
Ocean Signal
3
rescueME EDF1 Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Expired or degraded battery capacity caused by age or poor storage can produce failed self-tests or reduced emergency operating capability
- Antenna damage, corrosion, or poor deployment condition can reduce transmission or homing performance
- Water ingress or damaged housing seals can cause corrosion, intermittent operation, or failed self-test
- Incorrect registration, programming, or position-data interface can result in missing or incorrect identification or location information
- Release bracket, hydrostatic release, activation switch, or lanyard defects can prevent proper deployment or activation when required
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, identification and registration data, battery and release-device expiry status where applicable, housing and antenna condition, seals, lanyard, and the manufacturer's permitted self-test. Do not make live distress transmissions during routine checks.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting or release hardware, seals and lanyard items where replaceable, and the manufacturer-specified battery or service kit through an authorized service arrangement. Exact parts and replacement intervals must follow the manufacturer documentation.
Use Cases: Used on merchant ships, passenger ships, offshore vessels, fishing vessels, workboats, survival craft, and personnel where the applicable distress or man-overboard function is required.
SafeSea E100G Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Expired or degraded battery capacity caused by age or poor storage can produce failed self-tests or reduced emergency operating capability
- Antenna damage, corrosion, or poor deployment condition can reduce transmission or homing performance
- Water ingress or damaged housing seals can cause corrosion, intermittent operation, or failed self-test
- Incorrect registration, programming, or position-data interface can result in missing or incorrect identification or location information
- Release bracket, hydrostatic release, activation switch, or lanyard defects can prevent proper deployment or activation when required
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, identification and registration data, battery and release-device expiry status where applicable, housing and antenna condition, seals, lanyard, and the manufacturer's permitted self-test. Do not make live distress transmissions during routine checks.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting or release hardware, seals and lanyard items where replaceable, and the manufacturer-specified battery or service kit through an authorized service arrangement. Exact parts and replacement intervals must follow the manufacturer documentation.
Use Cases: Used on merchant ships, passenger ships, offshore vessels, fishing vessels, workboats, survival craft, and personnel where the applicable distress or man-overboard function is required.
rescueME EDF2 RLS Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Return link service
ja
Second gen
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery or power-supply deterioration caused by age, poor charging or connection faults can produce low-voltage alarms, failed self-tests or inability to transmit
- Antenna, feeder or connector damage caused by corrosion, water ingress or mechanical stress can reduce range or prevent transmission and reception
- Programming or configuration errors after replacement can produce identity, channel or communication faults even when the hardware powers up
- Control, display or internal electronics faults caused by ageing or moisture can result in failed tests, unreadable indications or intermittent operation
- Release, mounting or protective enclosure problems on emergency equipment caused by corrosion or damage can prevent correct deployment or leave the unit physically insecure
Service: Check identification and programming against vessel records, inspect antennas, feeders, mounts and power sources, and perform only the approved self-tests or functional checks. Verify battery and release dates from the actual unit and service documentation rather than assuming intervals. Refer to manufacturer and statutory documentation for exact test procedures.
Spare Parts: Carry approved batteries only where shipboard replacement is permitted, together with fuses, handset or microphone accessories, connectors, protective covers and other maker-approved service items appropriate to the installed unit.
Use Cases: SOLAS ships and other vessels requiring distress alerting, search-and-rescue location, maritime safety information or routine marine radio communications.
Becker Marine
2
EPIRB BMS-300 Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Expired or degraded battery capacity caused by age or poor storage can produce failed self-tests or reduced emergency operating capability
- Antenna damage, corrosion, or poor deployment condition can reduce transmission or homing performance
- Water ingress or damaged housing seals can cause corrosion, intermittent operation, or failed self-test
- Incorrect registration, programming, or position-data interface can result in missing or incorrect identification or location information
- Release bracket, hydrostatic release, activation switch, or lanyard defects can prevent proper deployment or activation when required
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, identification and registration data, battery and release-device expiry status where applicable, housing and antenna condition, seals, lanyard, and the manufacturer's permitted self-test. Do not make live distress transmissions during routine checks.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting or release hardware, seals and lanyard items where replaceable, and the manufacturer-specified battery or service kit through an authorized service arrangement. Exact parts and replacement intervals must follow the manufacturer documentation.
Use Cases: Used on merchant ships, passenger ships, offshore vessels, fishing vessels, workboats, survival craft, and personnel where the applicable distress or man-overboard function is required.
BMS-400 Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery depletion or expiry caused by age, self-discharge or poor storage, resulting in failed self-test or reduced emergency endurance
- Antenna or housing damage caused by impact, corrosion or water ingress, resulting in poor transmission or failed self-test
- Activation-switch, release or mounting failure caused by corrosion, contamination or mechanical damage, resulting in inability to activate or release the unit as intended
- Programming or identity error caused by incorrect replacement or configuration, resulting in incorrect identification being transmitted or recorded
- Internal electronic or self-test failure caused by component faults, resulting in warning indications or inability to complete the approved test
Service: Inspect the housing, antenna, mounting, release mechanism and markings for damage or deterioration. Check battery and hydrostatic-release dates where those items form part of the approved unit and replace them only with approved components. Perform self-tests strictly according to the manufacturer instructions and avoid unintended distress transmissions. Verify programmed identity and registration information after replacement or servicing. Keep the unit accessible and correctly secured in its approved location. Refer to manufacturer and regulatory documentation for exact servicing, shore-maintenance and test requirements.
Spare Parts: Emergency beacons and transponders normally rely on approved replacement batteries, release units, brackets, straps or complete replacement units rather than informal onboard electronic repair. Carry only manufacturer-approved accessories and replacement components permitted by the certification. Maintain any statutory spare units according to the vessel's safety-equipment inventory.
Use Cases: Distress alerting, survivor location and search-and-rescue support on SOLAS vessels, offshore units and other craft carrying the relevant approved emergency beacon or transponder.
Cobham SATCOM / Sailor
2
SE406-II EPIRB Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery expiry or deterioration, typically indicated by failed self-test, low-battery indication or expired service marking
- Antenna or housing damage, typically indicated by failed self-test, poor transmission or visible damage
- Water ingress/corrosion, typically indicated by intermittent operation or self-test failure
- Hydrostatic release or bracket fault on float-free units, typically indicated by expired/damaged release or inability to deploy automatically
- Registration/programming or GNSS acquisition issue, typically indicated by incorrect identity data, position not acquired or test discrepancy
Service: Check mounting, beacon housing, antenna, self-test, battery and hydrostatic-release dates, registration data and seals; live transmissions should only be performed under approved test procedures.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting/release hardware and, where permitted, replacement batteries from authorized service arrangements; complete spare beacons may be carried according to vessel requirements.
Use Cases: Used on SOLAS and other vessels, survival craft and personal rescue equipment to initiate or support maritime distress alerting. This entry applies specifically to the SART / EPIRB (406 MHz) Category II variant identified as Cobham SATCOM / Sailor SE406-II EPIRB Cat II.
SE406-III RLS Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Return link service
ja
Second gen
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery expiry or deterioration, typically indicated by failed self-test, low-battery indication or expired service marking
- Antenna or housing damage, typically indicated by failed self-test, poor transmission or visible damage
- Water ingress/corrosion, typically indicated by intermittent operation or self-test failure
- Hydrostatic release or bracket fault on float-free units, typically indicated by expired/damaged release or inability to deploy automatically
- Registration/programming or GNSS acquisition issue, typically indicated by incorrect identity data, position not acquired or test discrepancy
Service: Check mounting, beacon housing, antenna, self-test, battery and hydrostatic-release dates, registration data and seals; live transmissions should only be performed under approved test procedures.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting/release hardware and, where permitted, replacement batteries from authorized service arrangements; complete spare beacons may be carried according to vessel requirements.
Use Cases: Used on SOLAS and other vessels, survival craft and personal rescue equipment to initiate or support maritime distress alerting. This entry applies specifically to the SART / EPIRB (406 MHz) Category II variant identified as Cobham SATCOM / Sailor SE406-III RLS Cat II.
Furuno
2
EPIRB-1 Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Expired or degraded battery capacity caused by age or poor storage can produce failed self-tests or reduced emergency operating capability
- Antenna damage, corrosion, or poor deployment condition can reduce transmission or homing performance
- Water ingress or damaged housing seals can cause corrosion, intermittent operation, or failed self-test
- Incorrect registration, programming, or position-data interface can result in missing or incorrect identification or location information
- Release bracket, hydrostatic release, activation switch, or lanyard defects can prevent proper deployment or activation when required
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, identification and registration data, battery and release-device expiry status where applicable, housing and antenna condition, seals, lanyard, and the manufacturer's permitted self-test. Do not make live distress transmissions during routine checks.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting or release hardware, seals and lanyard items where replaceable, and the manufacturer-specified battery or service kit through an authorized service arrangement. Exact parts and replacement intervals must follow the manufacturer documentation.
Use Cases: Used on merchant ships, passenger ships, offshore vessels, fishing vessels, workboats, survival craft, and personnel where the applicable distress or man-overboard function is required.
EPIRB-2 RLS Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Return link service
ja
Second gen
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery deterioration prevents reliable emergency endurance and is identified during inspection or self-test
- Antenna damage or corrosion reduces transmission reliability and can cause failed self-test indication
- Water ingress or damaged seals causes corrosion, intermittent operation or failure
- Hydrostatic-release or mounting defects on float-free units prevent correct deployment
- Programming or registration mismatch results in incorrect vessel identity data
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, release arrangement, casing, antenna, labels and approved self-test indication. Verify battery and release-device validity against equipment records and confirm beacon identity and registration. Do not perform unauthorized live transmissions. Exact test and replacement requirements follow manufacturer and regulatory documentation.
Spare Parts: Maintain approved mounting and release hardware and arrange certified replacement batteries or hydrostatic-release units as required; minor spares may include seals, lanyards and fasteners where supported.
Use Cases: GMDSS-equipped merchant, passenger and offshore vessels requiring emergency satellite distress alerting.
GME
2
MT603FG EPIRB Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery depletion or expiry caused by age, self-discharge or poor storage, resulting in failed self-test or reduced emergency endurance
- Antenna or housing damage caused by impact, corrosion or water ingress, resulting in poor transmission or failed self-test
- Activation-switch or release-mechanism failure caused by corrosion, contamination or mechanical damage, resulting in inability to activate or release as intended
- Programming or identity error caused by incorrect replacement or configuration, resulting in wrong identification being transmitted or recorded
- Self-test or internal electronic failure caused by component faults, resulting in warning indication or inability to complete the approved test
Service: Inspect the housing, antenna, mounting bracket, release mechanism and markings for damage or deterioration. Check battery and hydrostatic-release dates where those items are part of the approved unit and replace them only with approved components. Perform self-tests strictly according to the manufacturer instructions and avoid unnecessary live distress transmissions. Verify programmed identity and registration information after replacement or servicing. Keep the unit accessible and correctly secured in its approved location. Refer to manufacturer and regulatory documentation for exact servicing, shore-maintenance and test requirements.
Spare Parts: Emergency beacons and transponders generally rely on approved replacement batteries, release units, brackets or straps rather than informal onboard electronic repair. Carry only manufacturer-approved accessories and replacement components allowed by the certification. Maintain any required spare units according to the vessel's statutory safety-equipment inventory.
Use Cases: Distress alerting, survivor location and search-and-rescue support on SOLAS vessels and other craft carrying the relevant approved emergency beacon or transponder.
MT604G RLS Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Return link service
ja
Second gen
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Expired or degraded battery capacity caused by age or poor storage can produce failed self-tests or reduced emergency operating capability
- Antenna damage, corrosion, or poor deployment condition can reduce transmission or homing performance
- Water ingress or damaged housing seals can cause corrosion, intermittent operation, or failed self-test
- Incorrect registration, programming, or position-data interface can result in missing or incorrect identification or location information
- Release bracket, hydrostatic release, activation switch, or lanyard defects can prevent proper deployment or activation when required
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, identification and registration data, battery and release-device expiry status where applicable, housing and antenna condition, seals, lanyard, and the manufacturer's permitted self-test. Do not make live distress transmissions during routine checks.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting or release hardware, seals and lanyard items where replaceable, and the manufacturer-specified battery or service kit through an authorized service arrangement. Exact parts and replacement intervals must follow the manufacturer documentation.
Use Cases: Used on merchant ships, passenger ships, offshore vessels, fishing vessels, workboats, survival craft, and personnel where the applicable distress or man-overboard function is required.
Jotron
2
Tron 60S Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Expired or degraded battery capacity caused by age or poor storage can produce failed self-tests or reduced emergency operating capability
- Antenna damage, corrosion, or poor deployment condition can reduce transmission or homing performance
- Water ingress or damaged housing seals can cause corrosion, intermittent operation, or failed self-test
- Incorrect registration, programming, or position-data interface can result in missing or incorrect identification or location information
- Release bracket, hydrostatic release, activation switch, or lanyard defects can prevent proper deployment or activation when required
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, identification and registration data, battery and release-device expiry status where applicable, housing and antenna condition, seals, lanyard, and the manufacturer's permitted self-test. Do not make live distress transmissions during routine checks.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting or release hardware, seals and lanyard items where replaceable, and the manufacturer-specified battery or service kit through an authorized service arrangement. Exact parts and replacement intervals must follow the manufacturer documentation.
Use Cases: Used on merchant ships, passenger ships, offshore vessels, fishing vessels, workboats, survival craft, and personnel where the applicable distress or man-overboard function is required.
Tron 70GPS RLS Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Return link service
ja
Second gen
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery depletion or expiry caused by age, self-discharge or poor storage, resulting in failed self-test or reduced emergency endurance
- Antenna or housing damage caused by impact, corrosion or water ingress, resulting in poor transmission or failed self-test
- Activation-switch, release or mounting failure caused by corrosion, contamination or mechanical damage, resulting in inability to activate or release the unit as intended
- Programming or identity error caused by incorrect replacement or configuration, resulting in incorrect identification being transmitted or recorded
- Internal electronic or self-test failure caused by component faults, resulting in warning indications or inability to complete the approved test
Service: Inspect the housing, antenna, mounting, release mechanism and markings for damage or deterioration. Check battery and hydrostatic-release dates where those items form part of the approved unit and replace them only with approved components. Perform self-tests strictly according to the manufacturer instructions and avoid unintended distress transmissions. Verify programmed identity and registration information after replacement or servicing. Keep the unit accessible and correctly secured in its approved location. Refer to manufacturer and regulatory documentation for exact servicing, shore-maintenance and test requirements.
Spare Parts: Emergency beacons and transponders normally rely on approved replacement batteries, release units, brackets, straps or complete replacement units rather than informal onboard electronic repair. Carry only manufacturer-approved accessories and replacement components permitted by the certification. Maintain any statutory spare units according to the vessel's safety-equipment inventory.
Use Cases: Distress alerting, survivor location and search-and-rescue support on SOLAS vessels, offshore units and other craft carrying the relevant approved emergency beacon or transponder.
Orolia / Kannad
2
Kannad SafePro EPIRB Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery expiry or deterioration, typically indicated by failed self-test, low-battery indication or expired service marking
- Antenna or housing damage, typically indicated by failed self-test, poor transmission or visible damage
- Water ingress/corrosion, typically indicated by intermittent operation or self-test failure
- Hydrostatic release or bracket fault on float-free units, typically indicated by expired/damaged release or inability to deploy automatically
- Registration/programming or GNSS acquisition issue, typically indicated by incorrect identity data, position not acquired or test discrepancy
Service: Check mounting, beacon housing, antenna, self-test, battery and hydrostatic-release dates, registration data and seals; live transmissions should only be performed under approved test procedures.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting/release hardware and, where permitted, replacement batteries from authorized service arrangements; complete spare beacons may be carried according to vessel requirements.
Use Cases: Used on SOLAS and other vessels, survival craft and personal rescue equipment to initiate or support maritime distress alerting. This entry applies specifically to the SART / EPIRB (406 MHz) Category II variant identified as Orolia / Kannad Kannad SafePro EPIRB Cat II.
Kannad SafePro II RLS Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Return link service
ja
Second gen
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery expiry or deterioration, typically indicated by failed self-test, low-battery indication or expired service marking
- Antenna or housing damage, typically indicated by failed self-test, poor transmission or visible damage
- Water ingress/corrosion, typically indicated by intermittent operation or self-test failure
- Hydrostatic release or bracket fault on float-free units, typically indicated by expired/damaged release or inability to deploy automatically
- Registration/programming or GNSS acquisition issue, typically indicated by incorrect identity data, position not acquired or test discrepancy
Service: Check mounting, beacon housing, antenna, self-test, battery and hydrostatic-release dates, registration data and seals; live transmissions should only be performed under approved test procedures.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting/release hardware and, where permitted, replacement batteries from authorized service arrangements; complete spare beacons may be carried according to vessel requirements.
Use Cases: Used on SOLAS and other vessels, survival craft and personal rescue equipment to initiate or support maritime distress alerting. This entry applies specifically to the SART / EPIRB (406 MHz) Category II variant identified as Orolia / Kannad Kannad SafePro II RLS Cat II.
Samyung
2
SEP-500 EPIRB Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery depletion or expiry caused by age, self-discharge or poor storage, resulting in failed self-test or reduced emergency endurance
- Antenna or housing damage caused by impact, corrosion or water ingress, resulting in poor transmission or failed self-test
- Activation-switch, release or mounting failure caused by corrosion, contamination or mechanical damage, resulting in inability to activate or release the unit as intended
- Programming or identity error caused by incorrect replacement or configuration, resulting in incorrect identification being transmitted or recorded
- Internal electronic or self-test failure caused by component faults, resulting in warning indications or inability to complete the approved test
Service: Inspect the housing, antenna, mounting, release mechanism and markings for damage or deterioration. Check battery and hydrostatic-release dates where those items form part of the approved unit and replace them only with approved components. Perform self-tests strictly according to the manufacturer instructions and avoid unintended distress transmissions. Verify programmed identity and registration information after replacement or servicing. Keep the unit accessible and correctly secured in its approved location. Refer to manufacturer and regulatory documentation for exact servicing, shore-maintenance and test requirements.
Spare Parts: Emergency beacons and transponders normally rely on approved replacement batteries, release units, brackets, straps or complete replacement units rather than informal onboard electronic repair. Carry only manufacturer-approved accessories and replacement components permitted by the certification. Maintain any statutory spare units according to the vessel's safety-equipment inventory.
Use Cases: Distress alerting, survivor location and search-and-rescue support on SOLAS vessels, offshore units and other craft carrying the relevant approved emergency beacon or transponder.
SEP-600 RLS Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Return link service
ja
Second gen
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery deterioration prevents reliable emergency endurance and is identified during inspection or self-test
- Antenna damage or corrosion reduces transmission reliability and can cause failed self-test indication
- Water ingress or damaged seals causes corrosion, intermittent operation or failure
- Hydrostatic-release or mounting defects on float-free units prevent correct deployment
- Programming or registration mismatch results in incorrect vessel identity data
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, release arrangement, casing, antenna, labels and approved self-test indication. Verify battery and release-device validity against equipment records and confirm beacon identity and registration. Do not perform unauthorized live transmissions. Exact test and replacement requirements follow manufacturer and regulatory documentation.
Spare Parts: Maintain approved mounting and release hardware and arrange certified replacement batteries or hydrostatic-release units as required; minor spares may include seals, lanyards and fasteners where supported.
Use Cases: GMDSS-equipped merchant, passenger and offshore vessels requiring emergency satellite distress alerting.
Denki Kogyo
1
DKK-406 EPIRB Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Expired or degraded battery capacity caused by age or poor storage can produce failed self-tests or reduced emergency operating capability
- Antenna damage, corrosion, or poor deployment condition can reduce transmission or homing performance
- Water ingress or damaged housing seals can cause corrosion, intermittent operation, or failed self-test
- Incorrect registration, programming, or position-data interface can result in missing or incorrect identification or location information
- Release bracket, hydrostatic release, activation switch, or lanyard defects can prevent proper deployment or activation when required
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, identification and registration data, battery and release-device expiry status where applicable, housing and antenna condition, seals, lanyard, and the manufacturer's permitted self-test. Do not make live distress transmissions during routine checks.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting or release hardware, seals and lanyard items where replaceable, and the manufacturer-specified battery or service kit through an authorized service arrangement. Exact parts and replacement intervals must follow the manufacturer documentation.
Use Cases: Used on merchant ships, passenger ships, offshore vessels, fishing vessels, workboats, survival craft, and personnel where the applicable distress or man-overboard function is required.
Icom Marine
1
IC-EP10 EPIRB Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery deterioration prevents reliable emergency endurance and is identified during inspection or self-test
- Antenna damage or corrosion reduces transmission reliability and can cause failed self-test indication
- Water ingress or damaged seals causes corrosion, intermittent operation or failure
- Hydrostatic-release or mounting defects on float-free units prevent correct deployment
- Programming or registration mismatch results in incorrect vessel identity data
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, release arrangement, casing, antenna, labels and approved self-test indication. Verify battery and release-device validity against equipment records and confirm beacon identity and registration. Do not perform unauthorized live transmissions. Exact test and replacement requirements follow manufacturer and regulatory documentation.
Spare Parts: Maintain approved mounting and release hardware and arrange certified replacement batteries or hydrostatic-release units as required; minor spares may include seals, lanyards and fasteners where supported.
Use Cases: GMDSS-equipped merchant, passenger and offshore vessels requiring emergency satellite distress alerting.
Musson Marine
1
P-200 Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery deterioration prevents reliable emergency endurance and is identified during inspection or self-test
- Antenna damage or corrosion reduces transmission reliability and can cause failed self-test indication
- Water ingress or damaged seals causes corrosion, intermittent operation or failure
- Hydrostatic-release or mounting defects on float-free units prevent correct deployment
- Programming or registration mismatch results in incorrect vessel identity data
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, release arrangement, casing, antenna, labels and approved self-test indication. Verify battery and release-device validity against equipment records and confirm beacon identity and registration. Do not perform unauthorized live transmissions. Exact test and replacement requirements follow manufacturer and regulatory documentation.
Spare Parts: Maintain approved mounting and release hardware and arrange certified replacement batteries or hydrostatic-release units as required; minor spares may include seals, lanyards and fasteners where supported.
Use Cases: GMDSS-equipped merchant, passenger and offshore vessels requiring emergency satellite distress alerting.
Navico
1
EPIRB-300 Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery depletion or expiry caused by age, self-discharge or poor storage, resulting in failed self-test or reduced emergency endurance
- Antenna or housing damage caused by impact, corrosion or water ingress, resulting in poor transmission or failed self-test
- Activation-switch or release-mechanism failure caused by corrosion, contamination or mechanical damage, resulting in inability to activate or release as intended
- Programming or identity error caused by incorrect replacement or configuration, resulting in wrong identification being transmitted or recorded
- Self-test or internal electronic failure caused by component faults, resulting in warning indication or inability to complete the approved test
Service: Inspect the housing, antenna, mounting bracket, release mechanism and markings for damage or deterioration. Check battery and hydrostatic-release dates where those items are part of the approved unit and replace them only with approved components. Perform self-tests strictly according to the manufacturer instructions and avoid unnecessary live distress transmissions. Verify programmed identity and registration information after replacement or servicing. Keep the unit accessible and correctly secured in its approved location. Refer to manufacturer and regulatory documentation for exact servicing, shore-maintenance and test requirements.
Spare Parts: Emergency beacons and transponders generally rely on approved replacement batteries, release units, brackets or straps rather than informal onboard electronic repair. Carry only manufacturer-approved accessories and replacement components allowed by the certification. Maintain any required spare units according to the vessel's statutory safety-equipment inventory.
Use Cases: Distress alerting, survivor location and search-and-rescue support on SOLAS vessels and other craft carrying the relevant approved emergency beacon or transponder.
Simrad
1
EP80 Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery depletion or expiry caused by age or storage conditions, noticed from the service marking or failed self-test
- Antenna or casing damage caused by impact, weather or poor stowage, noticed visually or through failed self-test
- Activation mechanism failure caused by corrosion or mechanical damage, noticed during approved testing
- Incorrect registration, identity or pairing caused by administrative/configuration error, noticed when equipment data do not match vessel records
- Water ingress caused by damaged seals, noticed as corrosion, fogging or failed test
Service: Check battery/service expiry, approved self-test, casing, antenna, activation arrangement and identification/registration. Verify mounting, lanyard, pole or hydrostatic-release arrangement where applicable and ensure deployment is unobstructed. Do not generate a live distress transmission during routine inspection unless an authorized test procedure specifically requires it.
Spare Parts: Internal repair is normally an authorized-service task. Carry only manufacturer-approved external mounting, lanyard, bracket, pole or hydrostatic-release parts where shipboard replacement is permitted, and schedule battery/service replacement before expiry.
Use Cases: Used as emergency locating equipment on seagoing vessels and survival craft to alert or guide rescuers after abandonment, man overboard or personal distress.
SOS Marine
1
Rescue EPIRB Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Antenna, feeder or casing damage reduces communication or locating performance and can cause self-test faults
- Battery, emergency-power or power-supply deterioration causes resets, low-voltage alarms or failure to operate
- Water ingress or corrosion causes intermittent operation, damaged connectors or internal faults
- Configuration, registration or identity errors cause incorrect vessel or beacon information
- Internal transceiver, display or control faults cause failed self-tests, missing communications or unavailable emergency functions
Service: Inspect antennas, casing, mounting, power supplies, emergency batteries, controls and programmed identity data as applicable. Perform only approved self-tests and permitted radio tests. Verify accessibility, release arrangements and emergency-power availability where required. Refer to manufacturer and regulatory documentation for the exact figure for test and replacement criteria.
Spare Parts: Carry fuses, handsets or microphones where applicable, approved batteries or chargers, antenna connectors, mounting or release parts and supported control modules.
Use Cases: Distress, safety, ship-to-ship, ship-to-shore and search-and-rescue service.
Standard Horizon
1
GlobalFix EPIRB Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Expired or degraded battery capacity from age or poor storage causes failed self-tests or reduced emergency operating capability
- Antenna damage, corrosion, or poor deployment condition reduces transmission or homing performance
- Water ingress or damaged housing seals causes corrosion, intermittent operation, or failed self-test
- Incorrect registration, programming, or position-data interface can result in missing or incorrect identification or location information
- Release bracket, hydrostatic release, activation switch, or lanyard defects can prevent proper deployment or activation
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, identification and registration data, battery and release-device expiry status where applicable, housing and antenna condition, seals, lanyard, and the manufacturer-permitted self-test. Do not make live distress transmissions during routine checks.
Spare Parts: Keep approved mounting or release hardware, seals and lanyard items where replaceable, and arrange manufacturer-specified battery or service kits through an authorized service provider.
Use Cases: Used on merchant ships, passenger ships, offshore vessels, fishing vessels, workboats, survival craft, and personnel where the applicable distress-locating function is required.
Taiyo
1
TD-406 EPIRB Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery deterioration prevents reliable emergency endurance and is identified during inspection or self-test
- Antenna damage or corrosion reduces transmission reliability and can cause failed self-test indication
- Water ingress or damaged seals causes corrosion, intermittent operation or failure
- Hydrostatic-release or mounting defects on float-free units prevent correct deployment
- Programming or registration mismatch results in incorrect vessel identity data
Service: Check mounting, accessibility, release arrangement, casing, antenna, labels and approved self-test indication. Verify battery and release-device validity against equipment records and confirm beacon identity and registration. Do not perform unauthorized live transmissions. Exact test and replacement requirements follow manufacturer and regulatory documentation.
Spare Parts: Maintain approved mounting and release hardware and arrange certified replacement batteries or hydrostatic-release units as required; minor spares may include seals, lanyards and fasteners where supported.
Use Cases: GMDSS-equipped merchant, passenger and offshore vessels requiring emergency satellite distress alerting.
Weatherdock
1
easyRescue EPIRB Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery or power-supply deterioration caused by age, poor charging or connection faults can produce low-voltage alarms, failed self-tests or inability to transmit
- Antenna, feeder or connector damage caused by corrosion, water ingress or mechanical stress can reduce range or prevent transmission and reception
- Programming or configuration errors after replacement can produce identity, channel or communication faults even when the hardware powers up
- Control, display or internal electronics faults caused by ageing or moisture can result in failed tests, unreadable indications or intermittent operation
- Release, mounting or protective enclosure problems on emergency equipment caused by corrosion or damage can prevent correct deployment or leave the unit physically insecure
Service: Check identification and programming against vessel records, inspect antennas, feeders, mounts and power sources, and perform only the approved self-tests or functional checks. Verify battery and release dates from the actual unit and service documentation rather than assuming intervals. Refer to manufacturer and statutory documentation for exact test procedures.
Spare Parts: Carry approved batteries only where shipboard replacement is permitted, together with fuses, handset or microphone accessories, connectors, protective covers and other maker-approved service items appropriate to the installed unit.
Use Cases: SOLAS ships and other vessels requiring distress alerting, search-and-rescue location, maritime safety information or routine marine radio communications.
WMB Marine
1
EPIRB-100 Cat II
unverified
Frequency mhz
406
Gps equipped
ja
Battery life (h)
48
SOLAS Approved
ja
Common Failures & Inspection Points
- Battery expiry or degradation reduces endurance and may cause failed self-test or low-battery indication
- Antenna damage or poor deployment reduces transmitted signal effectiveness and may be visible during inspection
- Water ingress or corrosion damages electronics and can cause failed self-test or unreliable activation
- Manual or automatic release mechanisms can seize or be incorrectly fitted, preventing proper deployment
- Incorrect programming, identification data or registration can complicate distress identification even when the beacon transmits
Service: Inspect casing, antenna, mounting, seals, labels and release arrangement and perform only the approved self-test procedure. Verify battery and hydrostatic-release dates where applicable, beacon identification and required registration records. Do not perform unauthorized live distress transmissions; exact test procedures and replacement intervals must follow manufacturer and statutory documentation.
Spare Parts: Carry only maker-approved replaceable items such as mounting clips, lanyards or straps and batteries where onboard replacement is permitted; hydrostatic-release units and sealed battery packs are normally replaced as complete approved items.
Use Cases: Used for GMDSS distress alerting, survivor location, search-and-rescue and man-overboard response depending on the specific beacon category.