ATTACHMENT B c11010 2 - 406MHz PLB Amend 1.pdf

RTCM 11010.2

RTCM Paper 114-2008-SC110-STD with Amendment 1 RTCM Paper 189-2010-SC110-STD

RTCM STANDARD 11010.2

FOR

406 MHZ SATELLITE

PERSONAL LOCATOR BEACONS (PLBs)

DEVELOPED BY

RTCM SPECIAL COMMITTEE NO. 110

AUGUST 23, 2010

COPYRIGHT©2010 RTCM

Radio Technical Commission For Maritime Services 1800 N. Kent St., Suite 1060

Arlington, Virginia 22209-2901 U.S.A.

E-Mail: hq@rtcm.org

Web Site: http://www.rtcm.org

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The Radio Technical Commission For Maritime Services (RTCM) is an incorporated non-profit organization, with participation in its work by international representation from both government and non-government organizations. The RTCM does not work to induce sales, it does not test or endorse products, and it does not monitor or enforce the use of its standards.

The RTCM does not engage in the design, sale, manufacture or distribution of equipment or in any way control the use of this standard by any manufacturer, service provider, or user. Use of, and adherence to, this standard is entirely within the control and discretion of each manufacturer, service provider, and user.

For information on RTCM Documents or on participation in development of future RTCM documents contact:

Arlington, Virginia 22209-2109 USA

Telephone: +1-703-527-2000

Telefax: +1-703-351-9932 E-Mail: info@rtcm.org

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RTCM 11010.2

RTCM Paper 114-2008-SC110-STD with Amendment 1 RTCM Paper 189-2010-SC110-STD

FOR

DEVELOPED BY

RTCM SPECIAL COMMITTEE NO. 110

AUGUST 23, 2010

COPYRIGHT©2010 RTCM

Arlington, Virginia 22209-2901 U.S.A.

E-Mail: hq@rtcm.org

Web Site: http://www.rtcm.org

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Table of Contents

1 Scope

1.1 Personal Locator Beacons

1.2 System overview

1.3 Purpose and intended use

2 Normative references 3 Terms and definitions

3.1 Global Navigation Satellite System GNSS

3.2 Personal Locator Beacon PLB

3.3 shall

4 Design characteristics

4.1 Summary of technical characteristics

4.2 Electrical performance details

4.2.1 406 MHz carrier frequency and stability

4.2.2 406 MHz transmitter

4.2.3 406 MHz emission limitations

4.2.4 406 MHz data encoding

4.2.5 406 MHz modulation and message characteristics

4.2.6 PLB Transmissions

4.3 406 MHz digital message

4.3.1 Basic structure

4.3.2 Continuous emission failure

4.3.3 Antenna

4.3.4 Auxiliary radio-locating device

4.4 Operational requirements

4.4.1 Controls and indicators

4.4.2 Self-test function add GNSS Self Test

4.4.3 Battery

4.4.4 Buoyancy

4.5 General construction

4.5.1 Exterior Finish

4.5.2 Labeling

4.5.3 Documentation

4.5.4 Packaging Labeling

Annex A (normative) Environmental and Operational Performance Test Procedures for Approval of 406 MHz PLBs

A.1 GENERAL TEST CONDITIONS

A.1.1 COSPAS-SARSAT Type Approval A.1.2 Power Supply A.1.3 Warm-up Period A.1.4 Instructions A.1.5 Additional Facilities / Supplemental Devices A.1.6 Audible and Visual Indications

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A.1.7 Preparation of PLB for type-approval testing A.1.8 Measurements and Observations A.1.9 Test Conditions A.1.10 Equipment Category A.1.11 Performance Check A.1.12 Performance Test A.1.13 Pre-conditioning and Post Examination for Environmental Tests

A.2 SEQUENCE OF TESTS

A.3 DRY HEAT TESTS

A.4 DAMP HEAT TEST

A.5 LOW TEMPERATURE TESTS

A.6 VIBRATION TESTS

A.7 BUMP TEST

A.8 CORROSION TEST

A.9 DROP TEST

A.10 THERMAL SHOCK

A.11 IMMERSION TEST

A.12 SPURIOUS EMISSIONS TEST

A.12.1 Close in Emissions A.12.2 Aeronautical, Maritime and Satellite Band Emissions

A.13 OPERATIONAL LIFE AND SELF-TESTS

A.13.1 Operational Life Test A.13.2 Self-test

A.14 COSPAS-SARSAT TYPE APPROVAL TEST PROCEDURE

A.15 BUOYANCY TEST (Category 1 PLBs only)

A.15.1 Buoyancy Test A.15.2 Floating Upright Test

A.16 121.5 MHz AUXILIARY RADIO-LOCATING DEVICE TRANSMITTER TEST A.16.1 Carrier Frequency Test A.16.2 Modulation Characteristics A.16.3 Peak Equivalent Isotropic Radiated Power A.16.4 Off Ground Plane Radiated Power Test

A.17 SOLAR RADIATION TEST

A.18 OIL RESISTANCE TEST

A.19 COMPASS SAFE DISTANCE TEST

A.20 MISCELLANEOUS TESTS

A.20.1 Controls and Indicators A.20.2 Self-test Function A.20.3 Battery A.20.4 General Construction A.20.5 Exterior Finish A.20.6 Labeling A.20.7 Documentation

Annex B (informative) Informative References

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Annex C (informative) Reference Sources Annex D (informative) Sample Bose-Chaudhuri-Hocquenhem Error-Correcting Code

Calculation D.1 Sample 21-Bit BCH Code Calculation D.2 Sample 12-bit BCH Code Calculation

Annex E (informative) Form for Use in Reporting Summary of Test Results Annex F (normative) PLB Coding and Technical Requirements

F.1 GENERAL

F.1.1 Summary F.1.2 Message-Format Flag, Protocol Flag, and Country Code F.1.3 Protocol Codes

F.2 User Protocols F.2.1 Structure of user protocols F.2.2 Serial user protocol F.2.3 Test user protocol F.2.4 Orbitography protocol F.2.5 National user protocol

F.3 Location protocols F.3.1 Summary F.3.2 Default values in position data F.3.3 Definition of location protocols

Annex G (normative) Internal Navigation Device Test Methods and Test Procedures G.1 Introduction

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RTCM 11010.2 – Amendment 1

AMENDMENT 1

to

RTCM Standard 11010.2 - 406 MHz Satellite Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs), dated July 10, 2008 (RTCM Paper 114-2008-SC110-STD), is revised as follows:

1. Replace Appendix G at page 81 with Appendix G contained herein.

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RADIO TECHNICAL COMMISSION FOR MARITIME SERVICES

RTCM STANDARD 11010.2 FOR

PERSONAL LOCATOR BEACONS (PLBS)

1 Scope

1.1 Personal Locator Beacons

This document contains minimum requirements for the functional and technical performance of Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) operating in the 406.0 to 406.1 MHz band through polar-orbiting and geostationary satellite systems 1. A 406 MHz PLB designed and manufactured to the standards contained in this document meets the PLB portion of the Cospas-Sarsat 2

System developed and implemented by the Cospas-Sarsat Partners (the Russian Federation, Canada, France, and the United States) as well as the environmental requirements considered necessary for PLB use.

1.2 System overview

Cospas-Sarsat is an international system that uses low altitude, near-polar orbiting satellites that assist in detecting and locating activated 406 MHz satellite beacons. The 406 MHz PLB signals may also be relayed over some geostationary satellites. The Russian Federation provides COSPAS payloads aboard Russian navigation spacecraft. In addition to weather and environmental sensors, SARSAT payloads, provided by Canada and France, are carried aboard the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration National Environmental Satellite Data and Information Service (NOAA, NESDIS) environmental satellites. The COSPAS and SARSAT Systems are fully interoperable..

COSPAS and SARSAT satellite receiver/processors receive distress signals from PLBs transmitting in the 406.0 – 406.1 MHz frequency band. The use of the band is limited by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) Radio Regulations, Article 5 (Table of Allocations) to low-power satellite EPIRBs 3, which include those that are being used with the COSPAS and SARSAT satellite receiver/processors. The Cospas-Sarsat 406 MHz PLB signal consists of a transmission of unmodulated carrier followed by a digital message format that provides identification data, nationality, and (optionally) encoded position data. The 406 MHz system uses spacecraft-borne equipment to measure and store the Doppler-shifted frequency along with the PLB digital data message and time of measurement. This information is transmitted by the satellite in real time as well as stored in an on-board memory. If an earth 1 In the United States PLBs must be Certified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). As well as meeting this standard PLBs must comply with 47CFR Part 95 Subpart K of the rules, the PLB must also obtain Equipment Authorization, specifically a Grant of Certification, as required by 47CFR Part 2 Subpart J of the rules.

This includes submitting the data required by Parts 2.1046 to 2.1057 inclusive. The Radiofrequency Radiation Exposure requirements of Parts 2.1091 and 2.1093 do not apply to PLBs. Finally the data required by 47 CFR Part 80.211(e) must also be supplied, however there is no specification limits for this requirement for a PLB.

2 COSPAS - COsmicheskaya Sistyema Poiska Avariynych Sudov (Space System for Search of Distressed Vessels) (Russian Federation).

SARSAT - Search and Rescue Satellite-Aided Tracking (Canada, France, and United States).

3 An emergency position-indicating radiobeacon (EPIRB) is defined by the ITU Radio Regulation No. 1.93 as a station in the mobile service the emissions of which are intended to facilitate search and rescue (SAR) operations.

A satellite EPIRB is also defined by the ITU Radio Regulations No. 1.94 as an earth station in the mobile-satellite service the emissions of which are intended to facilitate SAR operations.

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station, called a Local User Terminal (LUT), is in view of the satellite at the same time that the satellite is in view of an active PLB, then the LUT will receive the PLB data in real time. When there is no mutual PLB-satellite-LUT visibility, the LUT will receive the PLB data from the satellite transmission of stored data during the next overflight in view of a LUT.

Because most of the search and rescue forces presently are not equipped to home on the 406 MHz PLB signal, homing must be accomplished at another frequency. These standards provide for the inclusion of an auxiliary radio-locating device operating at 121.5 MHz.

The LUT processes the Doppler-shifted 406 MHz signal and determines the location of the PLB;

the LUT then relays the position of the distress to a Mission Control Center (MCC) where the distress alert and location information is immediately forwarded to an appropriate Search and rescue Point Of Contact (SPOC). The SPOC dispatches Search And Rescue (SAR) forces.

In addition to the instruments on the low-orbit COSPAS and SARSAT satellites, various geostationary satellites carry Search and Rescue Repeaters, which relay PLB transmissions to special local user terminals called GEOLUTs. GEOLUTs receive beacon signals almost immediately upon activation, but because there is essentially no relative motion between PLBs and geostationary satellites, GEOLUTs cannot use Doppler processing for location determination. However, these standards provide for optional insertion of position information from internal or external navigation devices into PLB messages. PLBs that transmit encoded position information can be located in near-real time via geostationary satellite relay.

1.3 Purpose and intended use

The PLBs are intended to provide individuals in remote areas a means to alert others of an emergency situation and to aid search and rescue personnel locate those in distress. The purpose of the PLB is to alert authorities to a distress situation and the location of the alerting beacon. The PLB consists of a transmitter module, an integral antenna, and a battery power source, all contained in an impact resistant watertight case. PLBs are envisioned to be used in two general environments, areas with water (e.g. rivers, lakes, oceans, flooding) and areas without significant water (e.g. deserts, mountains). Therefore, this recommended standard includes two categories of PLBs, Category 1 which must float and Category 2 which is not required to float.

When activated, the PLB transmits in short bursts at approximately 50 second intervals in the

406.0 – 406.1 MHz frequency band. The transmission consists of an unmodulated carrier followed by a digital message format that provides stored information (beacon identification, country code, type of user, etc.), and optionally, current information such as the type of emergency and beacon location. The stored information is encoded in the PLB by the manufacturer. The stored message includes the PLB's identification, which, when decoded into its 15 character hexadecimal representation becomes the PLB's Beacon Unique Identification Code or 15-Hex ID 4. This Beacon Identification Code is used by the SAR forces to identify the user in distress when the PLB is activated. This is also the identification code which is used by the PLB's owner to register the PLB in a registration data base maintained by NOAA, NESDIS, who operate the United States Mission Control Center (USMCC). The registration data provided by the PLB's owner contains important additional information such as the emergency points of contact who could be contacted in the event that the PLB is activated. When a distress message is received by the USMCC, the registry information is automatically appended to the alert message which is sent to the SAR forces.

The message protocol is used in one of two formats: the short message, which provides the minimum message length; or the long message, which allows the inclusion of additional data or position information. Location Protocol beacons must use the long message format, however beacons without either an internal or external navigation device may use either format. In 4 Note that in Location Protocol beacons the Hex ID is only valid when the beacon transmits Default position data.

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addition to the 406 MHz burst transmissions, which occur approximately every 50 seconds, the PLB also transmits a continuous low-power 121.5 MHz signal, including a Morse “P”, for the purpose of homing.

2 Normative references

The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.

Cospas-Sarsat C/S T.001, as amended, Specification for Cospas-Sarsat 406 MHz Distress Beacons

Cospas-Sarsat C/S T.007, as amended, Cospas-Sarsat 406 MHz Distress Beacon Type Approval Standard

Cospas-Sarsat C/S T.012, as amended, COSPAS-SARSAT 406 MHz Frequency Management Plan

IEC 60945, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems - General requirements - Methods of testing and required test results

IEC 61162-1, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems - Digital interfaces - Part 1: Single talker and multiple listeners

IEC 61108-1 Ed2.0, as amended, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems – Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) – Part 1: Global Positioning System (GPS) – Receiver equipment – Performance standards, methods of testing and required test results

ITU-R Recommendation M.633-3 as amended, Transmission characteristics of a satellite emergency position-indicating radio beacon (satellite EPIRB) system operating through a satellite system in the 406 MHz band

ITU-R Recommendation M.690-1 (10/95), Technical characteristics of emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) operating on the carrier frequencies of 121,5 MHz and 243 MHz

United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, Manual of Tests and Criteria, Fourth Revised Edition, PART III, Section 38.3 (ST/SG/AC.10/11/Rev.4) as amended.

3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.

3.1 Cospas-Sarsat COSPAS - COsmicheskaya Sistyema Poiska Avariynych Sudov (Space System for Search of Distressed Vessels) (Russian Federation).

SARSAT - Search and Rescue Satellite-Aided Tracking (Canada, France, and United States).

Cospas-Sarsat is a satellite system designed to provide distress alert and location data to assist search and rescue (SAR) operations, using spacecraft and ground facilities to detect and locate the signals of distress beacons operating on 406 Megahertz (MHz).

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3.2 Global Navigation Satellite System

GNSS

3.3 Personal Locator Beacon

PLB

3.4 shall describes attributes which RTCM considers necessary to meet the standard. However, the use of the term "shall" is not intended to limit the possibility of amending the standard through the language of a regulation or contract which incorporates this standard by reference. If a PLB is produced to such an amended standard, any claim of compliance with this standard on the PLB or in its documentation, shall also describe the modification.

3.4 should describes attributes recommended by RTCM, but not mandatory to claim compliance with this standard.

4 Design characteristics

4.1 Summary of technical characteristics

Table 1 – Summary of technical characteristics of 406 MHz PLB transmitter

PARAMETER VALUE NOTE

RF signal Nominal Carrier Frequency See C/S T.012

Frequency Stability See C/S T.001

Short Term

Medium Term

Mean Slope

Residual Frequency Variation

Long Term (within five years) See C/S T.001

Output Power See C/S T.001

Output Power Rise Time See C/S T.001

Spurious Emissions See Figure 2

Carrier Harmonics See C/S T.001

Data Encoding See C/S T.001

Modulation See C/S T.001

Modulation Rise and Fall Times See C/S T.001

Modulation Symmetry See C/S T.001

Warm-up Time See C/S T.001

Continuous-Emission Failure Mode See C/S T.001

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PARAMETER VALUE NOTE

Digital message

Repetition Period See C/S T.001

Transmission Time See C/S T.001

CW preamble See C/S T.001

Digital Message See C/S T.001

Bit Rate See C/S T.001

Bit Synchronization See C/S T.001

Frame Synchronization See C/S T.001

Antenna

Elevation See C/S T.001

Pattern See C/S T.001

Polarization See C/S T.001

Gain (Elevation) See C/S T.001

Gain Variation (Azimuth) See C/S T.001

Minimum acceptable temperature ranges

Operating

Class 1 -40° C to + 55° C

Class 2 -20° C to + 55° C

Stowage 1

Class 1 -55° C to +70° C

Class 2 -30° C to +70° C

Thermal shock

30° C difference within operating temperature range

Minimum operating life time

406 MHz Signal 24 h throughout the specified operating temperature range

Indicator (visual and/or audio)

Operating when the 406 MHz PLB is transmitting

Buoyancy

Category 1 Must float in water

Category 2 Not required to float

1 Stowage temperature limits are the limiting temperatures for which it is required that the PLB survive undamaged to operate when warmed up or cooled down into the operating temperature range.

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Table 2 – Summary of Technical Characteristics of 121.5 MHz Auxiliary Radio-Locating Device

PARAMETER VALUE

RF Signal

Carrier Frequency 121.5 MHz

Frequency Tolerance 50 parts/million

Peak Equivalent Isotropic Radiated Power1 25 mW, -0 dB, +6 dB

Transmitter Duty Cycle Continuous (100%) except that it shall be interrupted for up to a maximum of 2 seconds encompassing the 406 MHz burst transmission

Modulation2 Amplitude modulated (3K20A3X) except that a Morse "P" (2K00A2A) shall be inserted immediately following the (2 s maximum) interruption of the homer signal as indicated in the Figure 1 with a dot length (one unit) equal to 115 ms ± 5%

Modulation Frequency An audio signal swept upward or downward by not less than 700 Hz within the range 300 to 1600 Hz except that during the dot and dash intervals of the Morse "P" the signal shall be modulated at 1000 ± 50 Hz

Modulation Duty Cycle 33% - 55%

Modulation Factor Between 0.85 and 1.0

Sweep Repetition Rate 2 Hz - 4 Hz

Spurious Emissions See Figure 6

Antenna

Pattern Omnidirectional in horizontal plane, ± 3dB

Polarization Vertical

Minimum Operating Life Time

24 h throughout the specified operating temperature range of the PLB

1 Peak Equivalent Isotropic Radiated Power (PEIRP) is the power supplied to the antenna by the transmitter (measured at the highest crest of the modulation envelope) multiplied by the gain of the antenna 2 The A3X emission must have a clearly defined carrier frequency distinct from the modulation sideband components. At least 30% of the total power emitted during any transmission cycle with or without modulation shall be contained within ± 30 Hz of the carrier frequency. Additionally, when the emission is interrupted by the transmission of the 406 MHz burst, the carrier frequency must not shift more than ± 30 Hz

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Figure 1 – Format of Morse Code “P” In 121.5 MHz homing signal

4.2 Electrical performance details

4.2.1 406 MHz carrier frequency and stability See C/S T.001

4.2.2 406 MHz transmitter See C/S T.001

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4.2.3 406 MHz emission limitations The transmitter power output spectrum shall remain within the limits of the emission mask shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2 – Emission Mask for 406 MHz5

4.2.4 406 MHz data encoding See C/S T.001 .

4.2.5 406 MHz modulation and message characteristics See C/S T.001 and T.007

4.2.6 PLB Transmissions

After activation, the PLB shall not transmit a 406 MHz or a 121.5 MHz signal until at least one 406 MHz repetition period has elapsed. The first 406 MHz burst (with or without encoded location) shall commence within no more than 5 minutes6 of beacon activation. For non location protocol beacons the 121.5 MHz homing transmitter shall start transmitting immediately after the first 406 MHz burst. For location protocol beacons the 121.5 MHz homing transmissions may be delayed until after the first 406 MHz burst with encoded location, but shall start transmitting within 5 minutes whichever is first.

After the first 406 MHz burst the PLB shall continuously transmit a 121.5 MHz homing signal except that this may be interrupted for up to a maximum of 2 seconds once every 50 seconds +

2.5 seconds to encompass the 406 MHz signal. Immediately after the interruption for the 406 5 This emission mask also complies with US FCC 47 CFR Part 80.211(e)

6 Note for Location Protocol beacons with an External Navigation Device Input if valid navigation data is present at the input then the first 406 MHz burst with encoded location shall commence within 1 minute of beacon activation.

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MHz signal the 121.5 MHz transmitter shall emit a Morse Letter "P" (see Figure 1) after which it shall transmit the 121.5 MHz swept tone until it is time to transmit the next 406 MHz burst.

4.3 406 MHz digital message

4.3.1 Basic structure

See C/S T.001.

4.3.1.1 Beacon Coding

Beacon coding methods are defined in Annex F to this standard.

The 15 hexadecimal characters that uniquely identify each 406 MHz beacon is called the unique beacon identifier or beacon 15 Hex ID. This beacon identifier comprises bits 26 to 85 of the 406 MHz beacon message expressed in 15 hexadecimal characters. For the purpose of calculating the 15 hexadecimal characters for location protocols, the position data in bits 26 to 85 are set to the default values specified in Annex F. The 15 Hex ID shall be clearly marked on the exterior of the beacon.

4.3.1.2 Beacon Self-Test Mode

The RF test transmission shall be limited to one short message burst. The test signal must have a frame synchronization pattern of 0 1101 0000. This bit pattern complements the last 8 bits of the normal frame synchronization pattern so that this test burst will not be processed by the satellite equipment. The content of the self-test message shall always provide the beacon 15 Hex ID, unless it is a GNSS Self Test. For location protocol beacons, the content of the encoded position data field of the self-test message shall be the default values specified in Annex F, unless it is a GNSS Self Test.

Additionally, location protocol beacons should also provide for the transmission of a self test encoded GNSS derived location. If the PLB provides for a GNSS Self Test then it shall comply with the requirements of C/S T.001 4.5.4 and T.007 A3.6 and Section 4.4.2.

4.3.1.3 Encoded Position Data

4.3.1.3.1 General

Beacon position data, obtained from a navigation device internal or external to the beacon, may be encoded in the beacon message. Position data can be encoded in either the long message extension, or in both parts of the message.

Operation or failure of an internal or external navigation device providing position data to the beacon shall not degrade beacon performance.

4.3.1.3.2 Message content and timing

Position data shall be encoded into the beacon message according to one of the methods specified in Annex F. The identification data and encoded position data are protected by a BCH error correcting code. A 21-bit BCH code protects the data in the short message and a 12-bit BCH code protects the data in the long message extension. The beacon shall recompute these codes each time the message content is changed.

The beacon shall commence transmissions in accordance with section 4.2.6. Until valid data is available, the content of the encoded position data field of the message shall be the default values specified in Annex F. The first input of position data into the beacon message shall occur as soon as valid data is available. If the beacon has the capability to provide updated position data, subsequent transmissions of the updated position shall not occur more frequently than every 20 minutes.

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If, after providing valid data, the navigation input fails or is not available, the beacon message shall retain the last valid position for 4 hours after the last valid position data input. After 4 hours the encoded position shall be set to the default values specified in Annex F.

The content of the encoded position data field of the 406 MHz self-test message shall be the default values specified in Annex F.

4.3.1.3.3 Internal navigation device performance

An internal navigation device shall be capable of global operation and shall conform to the requirements of C/S T.001 and the following sections of IEC 61108-1 Ed2.0 (as amended).

Static Position Accuracy (5.6.4.1.1) Static Position Accuracy under Angular Movement (5.6.4.2) Dynamic Position Accuracy (5.6.4.3) Acquisition Times (Cold Start, Warm Start and Reacquisition) (5.6.5) Short Circuit Protection (5.6.6) Receiver Sensitivity (during both Acquisition and Tracking) (5.6.8) Interference Immunity (5.6.9) Position Update (5.6.10)

An internal navigation device shall incorporate self-check features to ensure that erroneous position data is not encoded into the beacon message. The self-check features shall prevent position data from being encoded into the beacon message unless minimum performance criteria are met. The manufacturer shall include details of how this is achieved in the provided test documentation. These details could include the proper internal functioning of the device, the presence of a sufficient number of navigation signals, sufficient quality of the signals, and sufficiently low geometric dilution of precision to ensure that positions with an error of greater than 500m are not encoded into the beacon message. The manufacturer shall provide evidence that an internal navigation device cold start is forced at each and every beacon activation (cold start refers to the absence of time dependent or position dependent data in memory, which might affect the acquisition of the position).

The distance between the position provided by the navigation device, at the time of the position update, and the true beacon position shall not exceed 500m (5.25km with user location protocol).

The internal navigation device shall provide valid data within 10 minutes after activation of the beacon under good navigation reception conditions.

4.3.1.3.4 Internal navigation device timing

The internal navigation device within the satellite PLB shall be activated immediately after the beacon is turned on. Once the navigation device acquires its first valid location 'fix’ this should be encoded into the next available beacon message. Between each attempt to obtain a fix the navigation device may be put into a sleep mode that may retain ephemeris and / or almanac data, such that when it is subsequently woken up it warm starts. The navigation device fix/dormant timing should be determined by the manufacturer to optimize location performance whilst conserving battery capacity, subject to the following minimum requirements:

• In the first 60 minutes the navigation device shall make at least 3 attempts to obtain an initial location and shall be on for a cumulative total of at least 30 minutes. If the navigation device fails to obtain an initial location within the first 60 minutes then it shall continue to make at least one attempt every 15 minutes thereafter for the next 1 hour of operation (2 hours total time) until an initial valid fix is obtained. Attempts at obtaining an initial location shall require the navigation device to be powered up for a period of at least

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5 minutes each time. Once an initial valid location (fix) has been encoded into the beacon message, or after 2 hours, the navigation device shall attempt location updates following the regime set out below:

• In the first 6 hours the navigation device shall attempt at least one fix / location update every 30 minutes.

• Between 6 hours and 12 hours a fix / location update shall be attempted at least every 2 hours.

• Between 12 hours and 20 hours a fix / location update shall be attempted at least every 4 hours

4.3.1.3.5 External navigation device input

Beacons which are designed to accept data from an external navigation device shall be compatible with an applicable international standard, such as the IEC Standard on Digital Interfaces (IEC 61162-1).

Features shall be provided in the PLB to ensure that erroneous position data is not encoded into the beacon message, the manufacturer shall include details of how this is achieved in the provided test documentation. The manufacturer shall also provide evidence that any malfunction of the navigation interface (e.g. a short circuit) does not damage, degrade or prevent the PLB from operating correctly while the malfunction is present.

For a PLB designed to operate with an external navigation device, if appropriate navigation data input is present, the PLB shall produce a digital message with the properly encoded position and BCH code(s) within 1 minute after its activation.

If a PLB is designed to accept position data from an external navigation device prior to beacon activation, navigation data input shall be provided at intervals no longer than 20 minutes.

4.3.2 Continuous emission failure

The 406 MHz PLB shall be designed to limit any inadvertent continuous transmission caused by equipment failure to a maximum of 45 seconds.

4.3.3 Antenna

The characteristics for PLB antenna(s) are shown in C/S T.001 and Table 2.

The antenna characteristics shall be measured in accordance with section A16 and Cospas- Sarsat C/S T.007, as appropriate.

4.3.4 Auxiliary radio-locating device

The auxiliary radio-locating device transmitting at 121.5 MHz shall be provided as an integral part of all 406 MHz PLBs. Characteristics of the 121.5 MHz auxiliary radio-locating device are shown in Table 2 and emission limits are shown in Figure 6.

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RTCM PLB + FCC 80.211(e)

0 dB

−25 dB

−35 dB

−30 dB −30 dB

Pm

+62,5−62,5 f0−25 +25

+12,5−12,5 f

−25 dB

−35 dB

Relative frequency to 121,5 MHz homing device in kHz Pm = mean power Pm = D(PERP) power output of 121,5 MHz homing device D = modulation duty cycle PERP = peak effective radiated power Measurement Resolution Bandwidth 100 Hz

Figure 6 – Emission Mask for 121.5 MHz Signal 7

4.4 Operational requirements

4.4.1 Controls and indicators

All controls shall be clearly and durably marked. They shall be designed to prevent inadvertent activation and shall require the use of not less than two simple, independent mechanical actions for manual activation of the PLB.

Activation of the PLB shall not require the use of two hands.

The PLB shall be provided with a means to indicate that it has been activated.

The controls should be few in number and the function of each control shall be kept simple to permit ease of operation of the PLB. All controls shall be so designed that they can be used by personnel wearing gloves or mittens.

PLBs shall have, as a minimum, integral manual controls to operate the device in the following modes:

OFF In the OFF mode, the PLB is deactivated.

ON In the ON mode, the PLB is activated.

TEST See paragraph 4.4.2.

7 This emission mask also complies with US FCC 47 CFR Part 80.211(e)

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The various modes of the PLB shall be readily apparent by visual observation. A positive visual and/or audible indication that the PLB is activated shall be provided.

4.4.2 Self-test and GNSS Self Test function

The PLB shall include a functional Self-test designed to test the following items under a full-load condition as a minimum: battery, 121.5 MHz and 406 MHz RF outputs, and, if used, phase lock of the 406 MHz phase locked loop (PLL). The Self-test shall be functional throughout the operating temperature range.

During the Self-test function, the PLB shall transmit the first 112 bits of the digital message. The frame synchronization of this Self-test message shall be bits 16-24 = 0 1101 0000.

The 121.5 MHz auxiliary radio-locating device signal shall not exceed 3 audio sweeps or 1 second, whichever is greater.

A separate test switch or switch position is required for this test function. The test switch (or similar control) shall automatically return (e.g., spring-loaded switch) from the test position and shall not pass through the ON position.

Self-test message coding shall be as specified in section 4.3.1.2

Additionally, location protocol beacons should also provide for the transmission of a self-test encoded GNSS derived location. Location protocol beacons which provide for a test of the reception and / or encoding of a GNSS derived location in a self-test message shall:

• Activate the GNSS self-test mode via a distinct operation from the normal self-test mode, but the GNSS self-test mode may be activated via the same self-test switch(es) or operation provided that, it shall require a separate, deliberate action by the user that would limit the likelihood of inadvertent activation, nor shall it result in more than a single self-test burst;

• Provide for, in the case of internal GNSS receivers powered by the primary beacon battery, the number of GNSS self-tests shall be limited to prevent inadvertent battery depletion;

• Provide a distinct indication to register successful completion or failure of the GNSS self-test and a separate distinct indication shall be provided, when appropriate, to indicate that the limited number of GNSS self-test opportunities have been attained;

• Ensure that the duration of the GNSS self test is limited to a maximum time duration set by the manufacturer.

In the case where the PLB fails to encode the location into the 406 MHz message within this time limit, the GNSS self-test shall cease and the PLB shall indicate a GNSS self-test failure and may transmit a single self-test burst with default location data. In the case where the PLB encodes the location into the 406 MHz message within this time limit, the GNSS self-test shall cease at that time (before the time limit is reached) and shall indicate a GNSS self-test pass and may transmit a single self-test burst containing the valid location data.

The manufacturer shall include instructions for the GNSS self-test in the PLB Operating Manual which shall include a clear warning on the use and limitations of this function. Instructions for the GNSS self-test shall not be included on the beacon itself.

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The following items shall be verified by the manufacturer at the minimum, ambient, and maximum operating temperatures:

a) The PLB battery experiences full-load current drain during the Self-test.

b) Each self-test pass/fail indicator correctly identifies a fail condition when a failure in the monitored function has been induced.

c) Any transmission in either self-test mode is limited to one burst.

d) If a GNSS Self Test mode is provided it shall be tested to verify that under worst case conditions (no GNSS reception or input) it is limited in duration (all location protocol beacons) and number (beacons with internal navigation devices only)

e) If a GNSS Self Test mode is provided, it shall be verified that inadvertent activation of this mode is precluded.

f) If a GNSS Self Test mode is provided, it shall be tested to ensure the correct operation of the GNSS Self Test pass/fail indicator(s)

NOTE The manufacturer shall provide test results to document the above tests. This subclause will not be tested during the tests specified in Annex A.

4.4.3 Battery

The PLB shall have its own primary (non-rechargeable) battery and shall not depend upon any external source of power for its operation when activated. The battery shall be an integral part of the equipment. Replacement of the battery, if user-replaceable, should be possible with relative ease, and any interface connections required shall be such as to prevent reversed polarity or incorrect installation. Provision shall be made to ensure watertight integrity upon replacement of the battery.

The PLB shall not be hazardous to personnel handling it, operating it, or performing manufacturer-approved servicing of it nor shall it release toxic or corrosive products outside the PLB case during or subsequent to storage at temperatures between -55° and +75° C and:

a) During a full or partial discharge at any rate up to and including an external short circuit.

b) During a charge or forced discharge of a cell or cells by another cell or cells within the battery.

c) After a full or partial discharge.

All PLBs shall include measures to protect the batteries from reversal of polarity, shorting, and the effects of self-heating, cell-to-cell charging, and forced discharging.

The PLB manufacturer shall establish a useful life and an expiration date for batteries. The useful life is defined as the period of time after the date of battery manufacture that the battery will continue to meet the input power requirements of the PLB. The following losses must be included (at a temperature of +20° C ±5° C):

a) Testing, as recommended by the manufacturer, including GNSS Self Tests if applicable, or as required by the regulatory authority, whichever is the more demanding.

b) Self-discharge of the battery pack.

c) Standby loads.

The battery expiration date shall be the date of battery cell manufacture plus no more than 1/2 of the useful life of the battery. The battery cells shall be no older than 2 years when first fitted in the PLB.

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4.4.4 Buoyancy

Category 1 PLBs shall have sufficient positive buoyancy to float in fresh water.

4.5 General construction

The external design of the PLB shall avoid sharp edges or points to prevent injury or damage to equipment or personnel.

The PLB (including antenna and battery) shall be an integral unit.

The design and materials used for the PLB and any mounting devices, and other auxiliary components shall be suitable to ensure reliable operation in harsh environments.

The PLB shall be resistant to deterioration by prolonged exposure to sunlight and shall not be unduly affected by seawater or oil.

The electronic components shall be protected to prevent malfunction under prolonged conditions of high humidity, including condensation inside the body of the PLB.

4.5.1 Exterior Finish

The PLB case shall be predominantly a highly-visible yellow/orange color.

4.5.2 Labeling

4.5.2.1 Battery Labeling

The battery shall be marked indelibly and legibly with the battery type (chemical composition), voltage, expiration date (month and year) and as appropriate, precautions associated with its use, handling and disposal.

4.5.2.2 PLB Labeling

All labeling on the exterior of the PLB shall be resistant to deterioration by prolonged exposure to sunlight, not unduly affected by seawater or oil, and abrasion resistant.

All labeling essential to the safe and effective operation of the PLB shall be in high contrast to the background of the text or pictograph. Labeling and Pictograph instructions essential to the safe and effective operation of the PLB shall be sized such that they are readable by persons having 20/20 normal vision at a minimum viewing distance of 150 mm with illumination no greater than 0.3 lux8

Items a) through h) in 4.5.2.2.1 below and any other information required for the safe and effective operation of the PLB shall be visible on the PLB, or their location identified and accessible by a single simple action on the part of the operator (e.g. lifting or removing a protective cover over the control panel). Such information shall not be hidden by any permanent or semi-permanent accessory or ancillary devices normally attached to or installed on or around the body of the PLB. (A separate storage case from which the PLB can be easily removed with one hand for activation is not included in this requirement.)

8 An example of how to achieve this is to use a dimmer on the light(s) in a darkened room and to adjust the light level until 0.3 lux is observed on a light meter held next to the instructions. A group of 5 or more naïve people (people with no prior knowledge of the instructions) are then positioned at least 150 mm away from the instructions and are asked to read them. If at least 80% succeed then the instructions are acceptable.

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4.5.2.2.1 Labeling on the PLB

The outside of the PLB shall be marked indelibly and legibly with the following:

a) Concise, unambiguous instructions for operating and testing of the PLB that shall be understandable by untrained personnel.

b) The warning, or equivalent:

WARNING

USE ONLY IN SITUATIONS OF GRAVE AND IMMINENT DANGER

c) The warning, or equivalent:

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

DO NOT MOVE IF FOUND

REPORT POSITION TO AUTHORITIES

d) Space for 15 characters shall be provided on a label with text identifying this as the “Beacon Identification Code.” This is the hexadecimal representation of bits 26 through 85 of the digital message. This unique identifier number, the 15 Hex ID, shall be inserted on the label when the PLB is programmed.

e) The serial number of the PLB 9

f) Instructions to register the PLB with the appropriate authority 10 and the contact details of the authority.

g) Space for any required registration sticker 11

h) The battery expiration date determined in accordance with section 4.4.3.

4.5.2.2.2 Attached labeling

The following instructions shall be marked indelibly and legibly on the outside of the PLB or permanently attached to the PLB. If permanently attached, the placard including the instructions(s) shall be conspicuously marked adjacent to the attachment point: “DO NOT

REMOVE”

a) The identification of the manufacturer.

b) The PLB type number or model identification under which it was type tested.

c) The temperature operating range in degrees Celsius and Fahrenheit of the PLB.

d) An appropriate Dangerous Goods transportation statement together with the applicable date 12

e) If there exists a condition or operating circumstance which has been identified by the manufacturer or regulating authorities that could substantially affect the alerting or self-locating performance of the PLB, then information appropriate to prevent this occurring shall appear in a conspicuous location appropriate to the prevention or remediation by the operator of said condition or operating circumstance (e.g. the necessity to orient the antenna vertically upward if orientation of the antenna is adjustable).

9 In the United States, the 15 character hexadecimal Beacon Identification Code (15 Hex ID) may be used for this purpose and thus this item maybe omitted for PLBs authorized in the U.S.

10 In the U.S. it is mandatory to register the PLB with NOAA and as a minimum NOAA’s registration website URL must be included on the PLB.

11 In the U.S. an outlined or otherwise identifiable space sized to accommodate the NOAA registration decal with the text “Affix NOAA Registration Decal Here”.

12 In the U.S., 49 CFR 175.10(a)(17).

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f) The phone number(s) to be used to report inadvertent activation negating the need for the distress alert 13.

4.5.2.2.3 For Category 2 PLBs

The outside of the PLB shall be marked indelibly and legibly with a warning label that states

“WILL NOT FLOAT.”

4.5.2.2.4 For PLB's with an integral GNSS Receiver

a) The location of the GNSS antenna shall be marked on the exterior of the PLB in a manner and location that shall be clearly viewable to the operator activating the beacon together with concise, unambiguous instructions to orient the GNSS antenna towards the sky and a warning not to obstruct the antenna.

b) A positive visual and/or audible indication that the GNSS receiver has acquired a location.

c) Instructions on or permanently attached to the PLB shall guide the operator towards maximizing self-locating performance. If permanently attached, the placard including the instructions(s) shall be conspicuously marked adjacent to the attachment point: “DO

NOT REMOVE”

4.5.3 Documentation

The manufacturer shall provide an operation manual which includes the following:

a) Complete instructions for operating the PLB.

b) Cautions and recommendations to prevent false alerts.

c) A warning paragraph with, at a minimum, the information in 4.5.2.2 and the fact that misuse of a PLB is subject to a fine.

d) General battery information (e.g., battery replacement instructions, battery type, safety information regarding battery use and disposal).

e) Instructions for the safe transportation or shipping of the PLB or the location where such information can be obtained on the Internet or by mail by the consumer.

f) Information regarding the need to replace the battery after activation of the PLB and how to determine if the PLB has been activated or the battery needs to be replaced.

g) Information related to the requirements of preventive maintenance.

h) Minimum operating lifetime and operating and stowage temperature ranges.

i) Information explaining the requirement and procedure for licensing and registering

PLBs, as appropriate, and encouragement to do so promptly.

j) Instructions on actions to be taken in the case of false alerts, including toll and toll-free phone numbers for contacts and including instructions that in the case of accidental activation of the PLB, the user should de-activate the PLB and notify the appropriate search and rescue authorities 14 at the earliest possible time.

k) For Category 2 PLB, a warning that states “THIS PLB WILL NOT FLOAT" and, if applicable, the information that when used around water it must be installed in a provided auxiliary flotation device, its tested depth and time rating (e.g. waterproof to x meters for x minutes/hours) and that the PLB is not designed to float and transmit a

13 In the United States the telephone number is 1-800-851-3051.

14 e.g., in the U.S. telephone 1-800-851-3051, in the U.K. the Coastguard

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distress signal and that the PLB may not be substituted for a required EPIRB on a vessel.

l) For Category 1 PLB, information that the PLB is appropriate for use in or around water and, its tested depth and time rating (e.g. waterproof to x meters for x minutes/hours) and as appropriate, either:

The PLB is buoyant (but is not designed to float in an upright position and transmit a distress signal) and that the PLB may not be substituted for a required EPIRB on a vessel.

or

The PLB will float without support in an upright position and transmit a distress signal and that the PLB may not be substituted for a required EPIRB on a vessel.

m) For PLBs with an integral GNSS receiver or that can be interfaced with an external GNSS receiver, information to guide the operator towards maximizing self-locating performance including a warning not to obstruct the GNSS antenna's view of the sky and to ensure the GNSS antenna is not submersed in water.

n) If the 121.5 MHz signal is transmitted during the Self-test, information noting that the Self-test shall be performed only within the first 5 minutes of any hour.

o) An overview and explanation of how the Cospas-Sarsat system operates.

p) Beacon registration materials and information 15

q) For PLBs with the capability to be connected to an external GNSS receiver the manufacturer shall provide instructions for connecting and setting up the external GNSS receiver in the equipment manual. This information shall include:

1) A list of all the GNSS receivers that have been tested with the PLB to ensure correct operation of the interface;

2) Details of the electrical and/or data connections to the PLB;

3) The specification of the interface (e.g. IEC 61162-1);

4) Details of the communications protocol to be used (e.g. Baud Rate, Data Bits, Parity

Bits etc);

5) A list of the NMEA messages that the PLB can handle (e.g. GGA, GLL, RMC etc) and;

6) Instructions on the key settings and parameters of the GNSS Receiver (e.g. Map

Datum (WGS84/GTRF), I/O Formats, Mode of Operation etc).

4.5.4 Packaging Labeling

End user (consumer) packaging shall include the following information in a conspicuous location, readily readable and visible to the purchaser without opening the packaging:

a) The Category of the PLB:

15 Manufacturers may obtain registration procedures and a sample registration card for USA PLBs from:

NOAA SARSAT Beacon Registration

NSOF, E/SP3

4231 Suitland Road Suitland MD 20746 or www.beaconregistration.noaa.gov

NOAA maintains a registration database at the USMCC…