• The Float Free 406 Memory Capsule stores and maintains a retrievable record of a ship's navigational, technical and safety data. Like the 'black boxes' carried on an aircraft, this memory capsule allows accident investigators to review procedures and instructions in the moments before an accident.

• The Float Free 406 Memory Capsule is small in size, light weight and tested under the most extreme condition imaginable to ensure proper operation in real world applications.

• Once installed, the Float Free 406 Memory Capsule is ready to be deployed and retrieved at a moments notice. Avoid expensive under water recovery searches for fixed mounted capsule, ACR’s GPS 406 MHz technology provides the LAT/LON position of the capsule for an easy recovery.

• The memory capsule is easy to install, and virtually maintenance free. Once outfitted, the memory capsule's automatic operation requires little attention from shipboard personnel.

• Unlike other S-VDR memory capsules that are exposed to the cruel ocean environments, the ACR Float Free 406 is enclosed in a self-releasing protective bracket to ensure years of problem free service.

Memory Capsule

• Waterproof breakaway data transfer (Ethernet) connection protects the beacon memory and safely allows the beacon to float freely away from mounting bracket once deployed.

• Data transfers over ethernet TCP-IP 10 base T over Cat 5 cable. Internet Protocol (IPO) per RFC 791. Transmission control protocol (TCP) per RFC 793. The Cat 5 power/data cable length can be up to 50 meters.

• The memory capsule is supplied power over the Ethernet Cat 5 cable @ 48 VDC. The power supply (supplied by ACR and approved to IEC 60945) runs on 115 VAC @ 10 watts. An alternate power supply is available that requires 24 VDC @ 10 watts.

406 Locator EPIRB

• FastACQ™ GPS engine acquires LAT/LON from a cold start better than normal GPS engines.

• The only S-VDR Memory capsule available that provides a GPS acquisition test, a full functional self test of internal circuitry, and battery voltage test.

• Patented proprietary electronics package provides greater frequency stability for most accurate position through the LEOSAR satellites. 100m (110 yds) GPS position accuracy, optimum allowed by COSPAS-SARSAT.

• Fully enclosed, high density, UV stabilized polyethylene bracket with hydrostatic release withstands extremely abusive environments.

• The first Float Free Memory Capsule for S-VDR with a fully enclosed bracket to protect against UV, ice and sea water.  It provides additional protections when exposed directly to fire or explosions.

• Class 1 battery for colder temperature operation, when activated, operates for a minimum of 168 hours.
       First 48 hours operation: -40°C (-40°F)
       Remaining 120 hours operation: -25°C (-13°F)

• 5 year battery replacement.

IMO's Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) with Resolution MSC.163(78), drafted an amendment to SOLAS Regulation V/20:

To assist the casualty investigations, the existing cargo ships, when engaged on international voyages, subject to the provisions of regulation 1.4, shall be fitted with a VDR which may be a simplified voyage data recorder (S-VDR) as follows:

• 20,000 gross tonnage and upwards constructed before July 1, 2002, at the first

scheduled dry-docking after July 1, 2006 but not later than July 1, 2009

• 3,000 gross tonnage and upwards but less than 20,000 gross tonnage constructed before July 1, 2002, at the first scheduled dry-docking after July 1, 2007 but not later than July 1, 2010

ACR’s Float Free 406 Memory Capsule meets the performance standard for Simplified Voyage Data Recorder (S-VDR) according to IMO Resolution MSC.163 (78). IEC 61996-2