ACR Electronics Pathfinder SART with AIS - Marine Emergency Search and Rescue Transponder

Pathfinder SART with AIS

The Pathfinder AIS is a fully approved AIS Search and Rescue Transponder (SART) that complies with IMO SOLAS regulations and allows vessels that must conform to GMDSS to meet the mandatory SART carriage requirement. Utilizing AIS class-A position reports, the Pathfinder AIS sends a total of eight position report messages once per minute to allow for real-time tracking.

Utilizing the tried and proven sturdy design and convenient form factor of the Pathfinder Pro SART, the Pathfinder AIS features Automatic Identification System (AIS) distress alerting versus the use of a traditional radar-based system. The state-of-the-art Pathfinder AIS transmits GNSS/GPS satellite location coordinates to all AIS-equipped vessels within VHF range, alerting them to the fact that emergency assistance is required.

The Pathfinder AIS has an average detection range of 5 nautical miles, incorporates Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, which aids product registration and provides test data, and utilizes a lithium battery providing 96 hours of operating life. Other benefits include precise GNSS/GPS positioning, real-time tracking, and, in contrast to radar SARTs, AIS SARTs have less susceptibility to adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain or fog.

The Pathfinder AIS comes with a sleek wall mount to keep it out of the way, yet readily accessible in an emergency. The optional telescopic pole conveniently connects to the bottom of the SART and provides for maximum height (extends 3.3ft/1m) and visibility out of a life craft. The SART can also be suspended inside the craft for hands-free usage.

Engineered to withstand the harshest marine environments, the Pathfinder AIS is ready to perform in any emergency, ensuring your distress signal is detected by any AIS-equipped vessel within range. Its rugged design ensures it remains operational when you need it most.

Carriage Requirements:

• Any IMO SOLAS vessel on international voyages is required to carry a SART
• 300-500 Gross Register Tonnage (GRT) must carry a minimum of 1 SART
• Over 500 GRT Gross Register Tonnage (GRT) must carry a minimum of 2 SARTs
• 1 SART for every four life rafts on Ro-Ro passenger vessels
• Passenger ships of any size must carry a minimum of 2 SARTs regardless of their tonnage
• Lifeboats: SOLAS requires that at least 1 SART be available for use in each survival craft
• Liferafts: In the case of passenger ships, if there are more than 2 liferafts, additional SARTs should be provided so that at least one SART is available for every 2 liferafts

Features:

• AIS class-A position report is sent once per minute as a series of 8 identical position report messages (four on 161.975 MHz and four on 162.025 MHz), creating a high probability that at least one of the messages is sent on the highest point of a wave.
• Average detection range of approximately 5nm (detection ranges are much greater from aircraft, ranging anywhere from 25nm at 1,000ft to 130nm at 20,000ft)
• Includes mounting bracket and mounting screws
• Compact 8.94 x 2.56 Inches (227 mm x 65 mm) unit easily packs into a life raft
• Waterproof to 10 meters (33 ft)
• Non-Hazmat Lithium battery (5-year replacement life) operates for over 96 hours
• Worldwide certifications; complies with IMO, MED, FCC, and IEC standards
• Application: mandatory requirement for all vessels governed by GMDSS; any yacht or vessel carrying more than one life raft to accommodate crew and passengers

Specifications:

• Size: 8.94 (H) x 2.56 (D) Inches (227mm x 65mm) / Max Diam = 3.23/82mm
• Weight (SART battery): 0.69 lbs (315g)
• Weight (without battery): 0.50 lbs (227g)
• Waterproof: 10 meters
• Drop proof (on water): 20 meters
• Deployment: Manual
• Frequency: 161.975/162.025 MHz
• Transmit Power (EIRP): 1Watt +/- 3dBm
• Baud Rate: 9600 baud
• Synchronization: UTC
• Messages: Message 1 (Position), Message 14 (Status)
• Repetition Interval: 8 messages/minute (message 14 sent twice every 4 minutes)
• Temperature Range (operating): -20C to +55C
• Temperature Range (storage): -30C to +70C
• Operating Life: 96 Hours at -20C
• Battery (type): Lithium/Iron Disulfide (Li/FeS2) - Non-Hazardous
• Battery (Lithium Metal Weight): <2g per battery
• Battery Replacement Interval: 5 years
• NFC: Frequency 13.56 MHz
• Compass Safe Distance: 1 meter
• Test Standards: IEC61097-14, IEC60945
• IEC60945 Category: Portable
• Approvals: MED (MED/4.55), UK MER (MSN 1874), GMDSS Provisions of Part 80 of the FCC rules
• Accessories (included): Bulkhead mounting bracket mounting screws, attachment lanyard
• Accessories (not included): Telescopic Pole (1m)

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

The ACR Electronics Pathfinder SART with AIS is a reliable and fully compliant Search and Rescue Transponder designed for marine safety. It meets IMO SOLAS regulations, ensuring vessels operating internationally are equipped with the mandatory safety device. The Pathfinder AIS leverages AIS class-A position reports, transmitting eight identical messages once per minute, providing enhanced chances of detection by nearby AIS-equipped vessels. Its state-of-the-art technology transmits GNSS/GPS satellite coordinates, enabling real-time tracking and swift rescue responses.
Built with durability in mind, the Pathfinder SART features a tough, waterproof design rated to withstand depths of up to 33 feet, making it suitable for harsh marine environments. Its compact size allows for easy storage within life rafts and survival crafts, while the included mounting bracket and optional telescopic pole facilitate versatile deployment options for maximum visibility. The device's lithium battery offers over 96 hours of continuous operation, with a five-year replacement cycle, ensuring long-term reliability.
Compared to traditional radar-based SARTs, the AIS version is less affected by adverse weather conditions like fog and heavy rain, increasing the likelihood of detection in challenging environments. Equipped with Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, it simplifies product registration and testing procedures, making maintenance straightforward. The Pathfinder SART is certified worldwide, including approvals from IMO, MED, FCC, and IEC standards, confirming its compliance for global maritime safety standards. Its straightforward manual deployment and comprehensive safety features make it an essential asset for vessels with GMDSS requirements, including passenger ships, cargo vessels, and rescue crafts.
Whether mounted on a wall, suspended inside a craft, or used with the optional telescopic pole, the Pathfinder SART ensures your distress signal is always ready for quick detection. Designed to withstand the rigors of the marine environment, this device guarantees operational performance in emergencies, providing peace of mind for crew and passengers alike.

Features:

• AIS class-A position report is transmitted once per minute as a series of 8 identical messages, increasing detection probability during waves.

• Average detection range of approximately 5 nautical miles, with greater ranges possible from aircraft at higher altitudes.

• Includes mounting bracket and screws for easy installation.

• Compact design measuring approximately 9 inches high by 2.5 inches wide, allowing easy storage in life rafts.

• Waterproof to a depth of 33 feet, suitable for harsh marine conditions.

• Lithium battery with a 5-year replacement cycle, providing over 96 hours of operational life.

• Certified globally to IMO, MED, FCC, and IEC standards for marine safety.

• Application suitable for all IMO SOLAS vessels, passenger ships, and vessels with multiple life rafts.

• Utilizes NFC technology for simplified registration and testing.

• Manual deployment with rugged construction to ensure reliable performance in emergencies.