13 |
P a g e
MAINTAINING THE BEACON
To function properly, your beacon requires regular inspection and maintenance.
1.
Routine beacon maintenance
At least every 90 days, inspect the mounting bracket and beacon for deterioration and/or residue buildup. At the same
time, check the antenna for tightness and check the battery expiration date. Wipe the beacon and mounting bracket with
a damp cloth to remove any residue.
Carefully inspect the beacon case for any visible cracks and immediately contact ACR Electronics Technical Service at +1
(954) 981-3333 if any cracks are detected.
In addition to regular inspections by the owner, ACR recommends the beacon be professionally inspected and evaluated 5
years after the installation date and every 5 years thereafter. This inspection can be performed by any ACR Battery
Replacement Center.
2.
Battery replacement
The GlobalFix™ V4 has a user replaceable battery. A new battery can be acquired from any ACR dealer worldwide (visit
the ACR website —
Battery replacement is due 10 years from the date of manufacture — unless it is on a vessel with a mandated service
interval less than this (e.g., 5 years on SOLAS vessels) or by the expiry date on the beacon, whichever is first.
Note that the beacon may still pass the self-test at the time of battery expiration. Even though the unit is fully functional,
the battery must still be replaced. The battery must also be replaced if the beacon has been activated for any use, other
than the self-test.
NOTE: Certain vessels are subject to Shore Based Maintenance. In these instances, the battery must be replaced by a
certified Shore Based Maintenance facility.
WARNING: Battery contains lithium.
To avoid possible fire, explosion, leakage or burn hazard, do not open, recharge, disassemble or heat beacon above
+158ºF (+70ºC) or incinerate. If this beacon is kept above room temperature for prolonged periods of time, the battery
capacity will be degraded. In tropical regions this could reduce the battery life by a year. In hot desert regions, this could
be two years. This will require that the battery be replaced at a date earlier than stated on the beacon. The quoted
operating life of the beacon (48 hours) may also be reduced. Note that storage in lower temperatures (below ambient)
does not extend battery life longer that the replacement date on the unit. Dispose of a used battery in conjunction with
local Waste Disposal Authorities.
3.
Servicing the Category I Bracket and the HydroFix HRU
Brackets are a key part of the overall beacon system. They hold the beacon ready for deployment, and a strategically
placed magnet helps prevent false alarms.
Category I brackets require replacement of the HydroFix HRU every two years. To open the bracket, turn the spring-
loaded knob counterclockwise 1/4 of a turn and pull. The lid will lift away from the top of the base and disengage from
the detent at the bottom of the base. The lid is tethered to the base to help prevent loss.
