FAQs: GlobalFix iPRO EPIRB





What is a GlobalFix™ iPRO?

The GlobalFix™ iPRO is the latest in EPIRB technology, including unique Dual GPS Technology and a digital display screen. The digital display provides the user with a variety of important information during operation and during self test.


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Can you please give me an overview of the GlobalFix™ iPRO?

The GlobalFix™ iPRO EPIRB is a patented breakthrough product, being the first EPIRB to have a digital display screen and the first EPIRB to offer Dual GPS Technology (both external and internal GPS systems).

The iPRO is not only smaller, lighter and loaded with high efficiency electronics. It also provides the user with valuable information via its digital display screen.

The display provides information to the user such as the self- tests performed and the corresponding test results, and information following the emergency activation of the EPIRB. The latter includes descriptions about what the beacon is doing as well as some optimum usage tips, such as “Leave beacon on until ResQ”, and “Do not hold antenna”.

The GlobalFix™ iPRO uses efficient, durable LEDs for its strobe, uses non-hazardous batteries and has Dual GPS Technology, i.e., both internal and external GPS capability.

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What is the difference in the GlobalFix™ iPRO compared to other EPIRBs?

The GlobalFix™ iPRO top features and benefits include:

Feature Benefit
The First EPIRB of its kind- a digital display Provides important information to the user. The only EPIRB with a display of any kind
Dual GPS Technology (internal and external GPS systems) Two ways to obtain GPS coordinates: Helps insure coordinates will be acquired
Ergonomic, compact design Saves a valuable commodity- Space! Space on your ship, boat or ditch bag." Lighter weight too.
Efficient, durable LEDsLonger battery life, holds up better to shock and vibration compared to strobe tubes
High efficiency electronicsPerformance you can count on- Efficiency, responsiveness, accuracy
Non-hazardous batteriesNo shipping hassles, cost savings when shipping
Marine- tough designEnjoy years of useful service

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Why was a display introduced in the GlobalFix™ iPRO?

In response to feedback from individuals in real emergency situations, the digital display provides a variety of feedback to the user, including that the beacon is working.

When the beacon is not activated the digital display provides the following functionality:
  • It provides information about a self test, including results of each test (pass/fail) and the final result of all the tests combined
  • It advises on appropriate routine actions, e.g., “Send for service”

The digital display screen provides the following functionality during activation:

  • It informs the user that the beacon is working
  • It informs the user of his/her GPS coordinates
  • It informs the user of remaining battery power
  • It reinforces to the user the correct deployment of an activated beacon, e.g., such as “Leave beacon on until ResQ”, and “Do not hold antenna”


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Is the user required to interact with the digital display?

The display lettering is fairly large, but if you cannot read it or do not wish to read it do not be concerned. The GlobalFix™ iPRO behaves like any other standard ACR EPIRB. The EPIRB will automatically perform its functions, including self test and distress signaling, without the user being required to read the display. So, if you lose your eyeglasses or need to focus your attention elsewhere during an emergency, the GlobalFix™ iPRO will take care of things on its own. The system is designed to beep and blink a red or green LED at the appropriate times, as other forms of feedback.

When activated, the GlobalFix™ iPRO displays latitude/longitude (LAT/LON) coordinates on the screen for the user. If the endangered person has another means of communication, the LAT/LON data can be provided to rescuing parties.

The screen can be very helpful during emergencies such as reminding the user of what to do to assure that the distress signal is sent and continues to be sent. Consult the Product Support Manual for details.


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Can the digital display screen break?

The digital display is housed inside the GlobalFix™ iPRO top cap. It cannot be touched, bumped, pierced or otherwise damaged by an external force unless the entire EPIRB is destroyed- and you already know how tough ACR EPIRBs are!

Further, the GlobalFix™ iPRO digital display is so tough that it withstands the operating temperature range and shock tolerance required of an EPIRB.

Lastly, keep in mind that even if the display were disabled, the EPIRB will still function normally: Blinking LEDs would confirm operation.


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What do you mean when you state that the GlobalFix™ iPRO is “compact, ergonomic”?

The GlobalFix™ iPRO EPIRB is small and compact due to the high efficiency electronics incorporated into the system- Components that do more with less bulk.

The end user will be pleased with the scaled- down size because the GlobalFix™ iPRO requires less space to mount, to carry or to stow in a Ditch Bag™. The beacons also weigh less than their predecessors.


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What do you mean when you state that the GlobalFix™ iPRO has a “new LED strobe light”?

LEDs use notably less energy than a traditional glass strobe light, but, to the naked eye, there is no discernable difference in the light characteristics. ACR chose the LED technology to further conserve extend transmission life.


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What do you mean when you state that the GlobalFix™ iPRO has “high efficiency electronics”?

The GlobalFix™ iPRO is packed with the best blend of electronic components to do the job: Efficiency, responsiveness and accuracy. The GlobalFix™ iPRO carries Class 2 batteries, which will allow the beacon to transmit for a minimum of 48 hours at -20ºC (-4ºF) to +55 C (131°F).


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