EPIRBs can be divided into two categories: location protocol EPIRBs and non-location protocol EPIRBs.
A non-location protocol EPIRB does not have the capability to determine its own location, therefore, the distress position can only be determined by the Cospas-Sarsat System using Doppler location techniques. A short explanation of Cospas-Sarsat Doppler location principles is provided here.
A location protocol EPIRB is able to determine its own location, normally using an internal or external satellite navigation device (e.g. GPS), and transmit this location information in the beacon’s message. In addition, location protocol beacons will also be located by the Cospas-Sarsat System using Doppler location techniques.
An approved beacon model that is a location-protocol beacon will show a “Nav Device” available in its TAC Report, which can be viewed on the Professionals website (Pro/Beacons/Beacon Information/Approved Beacon Models (TACs)).
Click on the appropriate beacon category to proceed to Step 4:
For further details concerning beacons refer to the following documents (available for downloading):
- C/S G.005, Cospas-Sarsat Guidelines on 406 MHz Beacon Coding, Registration and Type Approval,
- C/S T.001, Specification for Cospas-Sarsat 406 MHz Distress Beacons.