ACR GlobalFix V6 Category I EPIRB with RLS and NFC
The ACR GlobalFix V6 is an advanced Category I Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon designed for recreational and commercial vessels operating in coastal or offshore waters. Equipped with Return Link Service, smartphone-accessible diagnostics and an automatic float-free mounting bracket, the GlobalFix V6 provides reliable access to the worldwide Cospas-Sarsat search-and-rescue satellite network.
When activated, the GlobalFix V6 transmits a 406 MHz digital distress signal containing the beacon identification and GNSS-derived position. Its 72-channel receiver uses GPS, Galileo and GLONASS satellite constellations to determine a location accurate to within approximately 100 meters. A separate 121.5 MHz homing transmission helps rescue personnel locate the beacon as they approach the scene.
Visible white and infrared strobe lights provide additional assistance during nighttime rescues and other low-visibility conditions. The beacon is waterproof, buoyant and designed to operate for a minimum of 48 hours at temperatures as low as -4°F (-20°C).
Category I Automatic Deployment
ACR part number 2853 includes a Category I automatic-release housing with a hydrostatic release unit. If the vessel sinks, the bracket is designed to automatically release the EPIRB, allowing it to float to the surface and activate when it is out of the bracket and in contact with water.
The beacon can also be manually removed and activated. Category I brackets should be installed in an unobstructed exterior location where the beacon can float free without becoming trapped beneath railings, canopies or other vessel structures.
Return Link Service Confirmation
Return Link Service, or RLS, provides confirmation that the beacon's distress transmission has been received and localized by the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system and is being routed to the appropriate search-and-rescue authorities. A flashing blue indicator on the beacon confirms receipt of the Return Link Message through the Galileo satellite network.
RLS provides valuable reassurance during an emergency, but it is not a two-way messaging service and does not indicate that rescuers have already arrived or that a rescue mission has been launched.
NFC Smartphone Diagnostics
Near Field Communication allows beacon information to be viewed through the free ACR mobile app without activating the EPIRB. Place a compatible smartphone near the beacon's NFC area to access stored operating and testing information.
The app can display battery status, completed self-tests, GNSS test results, activation history and other diagnostic information. GNSS test details may include the test location, date and time, time required to obtain a position, number of satellites used and reported position accuracy.
Key Features
- Category I automatic float-free deployment bracket
- Hydrostatic release unit included
- 406 MHz Cospas-Sarsat satellite distress transmission
- 121.5 MHz local homing signal
- Return Link Service confirmation directly to the beacon
- Flashing blue RLS confirmation indicator
- Near Field Communication smartphone diagnostics
- Compatible with the free ACR mobile app
- 72-channel GPS, Galileo and GLONASS GNSS receiver
- Position accuracy within approximately 100 meters
- Visible white and infrared strobe lights
- Waterproof and buoyant construction
- Minimum 48-hour operational life
- 10-year battery replacement interval
- No subscription required
Technical Specifications
- Manufacturer: ACR Electronics
- Product Name: GlobalFix V6
- Part Number: 2853 – USA Programmed
- Model Number: RLB-43
- Product Type: Category I EPIRB with RLS and NFC
- Included Bracket: Category I automatic float-free bracket
- Deployment: Hydrostatic automatic release or manual release
- Activation: Automatic when released from the bracket and immersed in water, or manual activation in or out of the bracket
- Satellite Distress Frequency: 406.040 MHz
- 406 MHz Output Power: 5 W nominal
- Homing Frequency: 121.5 MHz
- 121.5 MHz Output Power: 50 mW nominal
- GNSS Receiver: 72-channel GPS, Galileo and GLONASS receiver
- Return Link Service: RLS confirmation directly to the beacon
- Smartphone Connectivity: Near Field Communication with ACR mobile app support
- Strobe Lights: Visible white and infrared
- Dimensions with Antenna Extended: 18.5" L x 4.3" W x 4.36" D (470 x 109 x 111 mm)
- Beacon Weight: 1.78 lb. (810 g)
- Battery Type: Li/FeS2 lithium battery
- Battery Replacement: 10 years after the date of manufacture or immediately following emergency activation
- Operational Life: Minimum 48 hours at -4°F (-20°C)
- Operating Temperature: -4°F to +131°F (-20°C to +55°C)
- Storage Temperature: -22°F to +158°F (-30°C to +70°C)
- Waterproof Rating: 33 ft. (10 m) for 5 minutes
- Buoyant: Yes
- Warranty: 5 years
- Approvals: Cospas-Sarsat, FCC, RED and Canada ISED
What's Included
- ACR GlobalFix V6 EPIRB
- Category I automatic float-free bracket
- HydroFix™ hydrostatic release unit
- EPIRB mounting hardware
- User guide and label pack
Beacon Registration
This listing is for the USA-programmed ACR 2853. U.S.-coded 406 MHz EPIRBs must be registered with NOAA after purchase. Registration is free and connects the beacon's unique identification number with the vessel, owner and designated emergency contacts.
Register or update a U.S.-coded 406 MHz beacon with NOAA
The GlobalFix V6 should only be activated during a situation of grave and imminent danger. Deliberate misuse or failure to report an accidental activation may result in penalties.
California Proposition 65 Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For additional information, visit P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Important Return Policy: This product may not be returned to the original point of purchase. Please contact ACR Electronics directly regarding warranty claims, technical problems or product concerns.
