PLB3 AIS RLS NFS distress beacon

The PLB3 is a hybrid personal locator beacon. It combines global distress transmission via the Cospas-Sarsat satellite network (406 MHz) and local alerting to nearby vessels via AIS. It also integrates the RLS system and a 121.5 MHz homing signal for optimal search and rescue coverage.

The RLS function uses the Galileo satellite constellation to send you a visual confirmation. Once your distress message is received by the rescue coordination centers, a specific LED lights up on the beacon to reassure you and confirm that your alert has been acknowledged.

Once activated, the lithium/iron disulfide (Li/FeS2) battery of the PLB3 provides a battery life of over 24 hours in continuous transmission, even at an extreme temperature of -20°C.

Yes, the beacon is designed to withstand the harshest marine environments. It is certified waterproof to a depth of 10 meters (1.0 bar) for over 60 minutes.

The integrated NFC (Near Field Communication) chip allows you to check the beacon's status by simply bringing it close to your smartphone. Using the free Ocean Signal mobile app, you can view test history, battery status, and diagnostics without triggering a physical test that would consume power.

The 406 MHz signal alerts international rescue services via satellites (Cospas-Sarsat) for global coverage. The AIS signal (Automatic Identification System), on the other hand, alerts nearby vessels equipped with AIS receivers (VHF range) to enable very rapid local response.

The PLB3 comes with an installation kit allowing it to be easily attached to the inflation tube or the strap of most automatic lifejackets. It can thus activate semi-automatically when the lifejacket inflates.

Yes, it is a legal requirement. You must register your PLB3 beacon with the competent national authority in your country using the 15-character hexadecimal identification number (UIN) provided with the device.

The beacon is extremely compact and lightweight. It measures 200 mm long, 36 mm wide and 22 mm thick, weighing just 190 grams.

Yes, the distress signal transmitted by the PLB3 (on VHF frequencies 161.975 and 162.025 MHz) is standardized. It will be received by all AIS receivers and chartplotters within VHF range, displaying a "MOB" (Man Overboard) alert.

To aid visual night-time or poor-condition recovery, the PLB3 features a dual high-intensity strobe: a white LED (20–30 flashes per minute) and an infrared (IR) LED, particularly useful with night-vision binoculars used by rescue helicopters.

The PLB3 battery has a lifespan of 6 years from its date of manufacture, provided it has not been used in an emergency situation and that self-tests are performed according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Yes, the beacon has a self-test function. It is recommended to perform this monthly or annually according to the guidelines. Note that a single AIS test will be emitted, displaying "MOB TEST" on nearby receivers. Do not exceed the recommended test frequency to preserve the battery.

Absolutely. The beacon uses the international Cospas-Sarsat satellite network (406 MHz) which provides global coverage, whether you are in the middle of the ocean or near the coast.

The 121.5 MHz frequency is a homing signal. Once rescue teams have reached your area using GNSS coordinates, they use this local radio signal to locate you with very high precision during the final approach phase.

Although the tag is waterproof down to 10 meters, it must not be used for routine tracking of divers. It is designed solely for emergency situations on the water's surface, as radio signals do not penetrate water.

You must use the official Ocean Signal App, available for free on Android and iOS platforms. It allows you to read all diagnostic information from the beacon via your smartphone's NFC sensor.

No. Never replace the battery yourself. Any unauthorized opening can compromise the beacon's watertight integrity and proper operation, endangering your life. Replacement must be carried out exclusively by an authorized service center.

The PLB3 is designed to operate in extreme conditions. Its operating temperature range is from -20°C to +55°C. It can also be stored at temperatures ranging from -30°C to +70°C.

The PLB3 integrates a 72-channel GNSS receiver that acquires your position using multiple satellite constellations (GPS, Galileo, Glonass). These precise coordinates are then transmitted to rescue services via the 406 MHz signal and to nearby vessels via AIS.