The ACR GlobalFix V6 Cat I is a 406 MHz EPIRB emergency beacon in a hydrostatic enclosure. The beacon is automatically released at a depth of 1.5 to 4 meters if the vessel sinks. Featuring Return Link Service.
Float-free emergency beacon that releases itself if your vessel sinks
The ACR GlobalFix V6 in Cat I configuration is housed in a hydrostatic enclosure. If your vessel sinks, the beacon is automatically released at a depth of 1.5 to 4 meters, floats to the surface, and begins transmitting. You don't have to do anything yourself, even if you no longer have the time or opportunity to grab the beacon.
Otherwise, it is the same V6: a digital mayday on 406 MHz via Cospas-Sarsat, position determination via GPS, Galileo, and Glonass, a 121.5 MHz homing signal, and Return Link Service that lets you know your call has been received with a blue flashing light.
Why choose the GlobalFix V6 EPIRB Cat I?
Automatically releases: the hydrostatic enclosure releases the beacon at a depth of 1.5 to 4 meters
Transmits automatically: once floating and wet, the beacon begins transmitting without intervention
Return Link Service: a blue flashing light confirms that your emergency message has been received
Global coverage on 406 MHz: the Cospas-Sarsat network works everywhere, including both poles
White and infrared strobe: visible in the dark, including via night-vision equipment
NFC and free ACR app: check battery and self-tests with your phone
Who is this product for?
This Cat I version is intended for anyone who does not want to depend on whether someone can still get on deck. This applies just as much to motorboats as it does to sailboats, and to commercial vessels as well as recreational craft. The V6 is suitable for all vessel sizes, from sports boats to cargo ships. When mounting, ensure an unobstructed location so the beacon can truly float free if the vessel sinks.
What are the benefits for you?
Works even if you can no longer do anything: in the event of rapid sinking, the beacon releases automatically
Certainty about your distress call: the blue light confirms receipt
Ten years without worries: the battery lasts for ten years
No subscription: registration is free, no monthly fees
Meets requirements: Cospas-Sarsat, FCC, RED, and Canada ISED approved
Technical specifications
Product type
EPIRB, emergency beacon for onboard use
Model number
RLB-43
Article number
2853.62
Transmit power
406.040 MHz 5 W nominal and 121.5 MHz 50 mW nominal
Return Link Service
Yes, confirmation directly on the beacon
NFC and mobile app
Yes, readable with the free ACR app
Strobe
White light and infrared
Dimensions (antenna up)
470 x 109 x 111 mm
Weight (beacon only)
810 g
Battery
Lithium Li/FeS2
Battery replacement
After 10 years or after activation
GNSS receiver
72 channels, GPS, Galileo, and Glonass
Activation
Out of the bracket and wet, or manually in or out of the bracket
Waterproof
10 meters for 5 minutes
Floating
Yes
Operating life
Minimum 48 hours at -20 degrees Celsius
Temperature range
Storage -30 to +70 degrees, operating -20 to +55 degrees
Mounting
Cat I, hydrostatic enclosure with automatic release
Warranty
5 years
Brand
ACR
Extra features
Automatic release
Hydrostatic release at a depth between 1.5 and 4 meters
Return Link Service
Confirmation via Galileo, visible as a blue flashing light
NFC diagnostics
Battery status, self-tests, GNSS tests, and activation duration via the ACR app
Included
Mounting hardware article number 9657
HRU maintenance
The HydroFix release 9490.1 has its own replacement schedule; record the installation date
Approvals
Cospas-Sarsat, FCC, RED, and Canada ISED
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is an EPIRB?
An EPIRB is an emergency beacon mounted onboard a ship. Once activated, it sends a digital distress signal on 406 MHz to the global Cospas-Sarsat satellite system, containing your position and the identification of your vessel. As a result, rescue services immediately know who you are and where you are.
Do I need to register my beacon?
Yes, this is mandatory. In the Netherlands, you register an EPIRB with the Rijksinspectie Digitale Infrastructuur (RDI). You will then receive an MMSI number that must be programmed into the beacon, which your supplier can do for you. Using an EPIRB requires at least a Marcom-B certificate.
What is the difference between Cat I and Cat II?
The difference lies in how the beacon is released from the holder. A Cat I beacon is housed in a hydrostatic enclosure and is automatically released if the vessel sinks, at a depth between 1.5 and 4 meters. A Cat II beacon is manually removed from the bracket by you. Both types can also be activated manually.
How long will the beacon transmit?
The beacon transmits for at least 48 hours at -20 degrees Celsius. This is the international requirement for EPIRBs.
How do I know if my beacon is still working correctly?
Perform a self-test monthly. If the test passes, the beacon is working. With this model, you can also read the test results using the free ACR app by holding your phone against the beacon.
Ultimate UpgradeUp to €600 extra off Simrad and B&G
On top of our regular price, Simrad and B&G add an extra discount on chartplotters, HALO radar, autopilots, VHF radios and sailing instruments. Already deducted, no code needed.
