User Guide

Y1-03-0180 Rev. A

SECTION 1 - REGISTRATION AND PROGRAMMING YOUR 406 MHZ BEACONS

1.1 Programming

This SSAS beacon is programmed with a serialized Unique Identifier Number (UIN). In order for

a security alert to be routed properly, this beacon must be reprogrammed by an authorized ACR

distributor before installation or use can occur.

This beacon must be reprogrammed as follows:

• With protocol code for SSAS

• With the country code of the vessel’s flag state

• With the vessel’s unique MMSI

1.2 Registration importance

It is imperative that the owner of this 406 MHz Beacon registers it with the National Authorities*.

All 406 MHz Beacons transmit a Unique Identifier Number (UIN) when activated. For SSAS the

UIN programmed in the Beacon must be the vessel’s MMSI. Registration provides the security

forces with up to date emergency contact information, which will speed up the launch of a rescue

operation. The National Authorities use the information to verify if an actual emergency exists.

Valuable resources are wasted every year responding to false alarms. For Beacons that are not

registered, the National Authorities will not know who you are, what type of vessel you have,

your homeport, or who has a copy of your float plan. This will delay the launch of the mission.

* National Authority is the governmental body that is responsible for SSAS registration database

administration for the country the SSAS is programmed for.

1.3 Where to register

The owner of a 406 MHz Beacon (SSAS) should register it with the National Authority of the

vessels flagged state, regardless of where they operate. Each Beacon must be programmed with

the country code of the vessels flag state, and will only be accepted for registration in that

country. To verify the country for which a Beacon is programmed, see the label with the UIN on

the back of the unit. Beacons purchased outside the flagged state of the vessel MUST be

reprogrammed by a properly equipped distributor for registration.

1.4 Registration in the United States

It is the Owner’s responsibility to Register 406 MHz Beacons that are programmed for and

purchased in the United States. The National Authority that accepts registrations in the United

States is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The owner should

complete the enclosed registration form (Do not confuse this with the ACR Electronics Warranty

Card) and mail with the pre-addressed; postage paid envelope to:

SARSAT Beacon Registration,

E/SP3, RM 3320, FB-4

NOAA/NESDIS

5200 Auth Rd.

Suitland, MD 20746-4304

Online registration is now available. Please visit - www.beaconregistration.noaa.gov