ACR Electronics, Inc., a Cobham Company, designs and manufactures a complete line of safety and survival products including EPIRBs, P-ELTs/P-EPIRBs/PLBs, Bridge-based Information Systems, SARTs and safety accessories. The quality systems of this facility have been registered by UL to the ISO 9001:2000 Series Standards. Recognized as the world leader in safety and survival technologies, ACR has provided safety equipment to the aviation and marine industries as well as to the military since 1956.

FOR IMMEDIATE PUBLICATION

January 6, 2005 

ACR Security Alert System (SSAS) Receives FCC Approval

Units Now Being Shipped to Dealers

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL-- JANUARY 6, 2005-- The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved the ACR ThunderBird SSAS (Ship Security Alerting System)-- the first to be so recognized in the U.S.

Also COSPAS-SARSAT approved, the ThunderBird SSAS will provide a means for certain ships to transmit a covert security alert to shore to indicate that the security of the ship is under threat or has been compromised.

Because the ThunderBird SSAS works in concert with the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite emergency detection system, there are no user fees (unlike other brands).

With the FCC approval, the ThunderBird SSAS is now available for sale in the U.S. International approvals are still pending.

Designed to meet security requirements as required through the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) for all SOLAS vessels engaged in international voyages, ACR's new ThunderBird SSAS will allow captains and crews to notify law enforcement and military agencies of onboard security problems anywhere in the world.

Transmitting on the 406 MHz (COSPAS-SARSAT) search and rescue frequency, the ThunderBird SSAS will operate much like a traditional Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB). The main difference is that all ThunderBird beacons will be encoded so security emergency signals will be routed back to the ship's registered country of origin. That nation's maritime security agency will determine the location of the vessel and coordinate with the nearest appropriate law enforcement or military agency to respond to the security emergency call.

The ThunderBird SSAS provides users with a GPS Interface (NMEA 0183) which will download LAT/LON from the vessel's onboard GPS every 20 minutes as allowed. Upon activation, GPS coordinates accompany the 406 MHz signal reducing the time it takes authorities to pinpoint signal location. When GPS data is present, position accuracy is increased to 100 m (110 yards).

For onboard security purposes, the SSAS is located in an inconspicuous out-of-the way location with two remote alert buttons to manually activate the beacon without detection. Also included is a patented proprietary electronics package providing greater frequency stability for most accurate position through the LEOSAR satellites. A Cross Dipole antenna mounts on the ship's mast to provide optimal signaling strength.

The unit's high impact polycarbonate blend case and polyethylene bracket ensure stability and security. In-line waterproof connectors protect the integrity of the beacon from electrical failures due to moisture.

Powered by a lithium 5-year replacement battery the unit will operate continuously for 48 hours minimum -40š C. The Thunderbird SSAS is lightweight at just 1.9 lbs (.861 kg) and measures 7.5 x 4.25 x 3.62 in (36.8 x 10.8 x 9.2 cm).