KTI MINI SAT-ALERT RB3S is a 'go where you go' pocket-size emergency beacon, similar in size to a cigarette pack. It is supplied in a armatech carry bag complete with carry strap and belt loop or alternatively the RB3S can be fitted to your life jacket or emergency flotation device. In an emergency situation the KTI MINI SAT-ALERT RB3S does not have to leave your pocket. To activate, simply flick up the antenna to vertical, extend it and push the red button. The unit commences transmitting immediately and will continue to do so for up to 4 days. Specifically suitable for use in Aircraft and Boats as this unit is free of compass-deflecting permanent magnets.
The KTI MINI SAT-ALERT RB3S is Australia's first microprocessor-controlled, truly pocket-size beacon that transmits on both the 121.5 MHz and 243 MHz international distress frequencies simultaneously, giving a satelite alert and position to the search and rescue authorities responsible for the area.
Activation
Test and activate by manual push button. Red LED pilot light indicates satisfactory test and beacon on, simultaneously an audible signal confirms transmission thereby reducing possibility of false activation.
Antenna
Nine-stage telescopic. Stainless steel and brass with end seal boot.
Approvals
Designed to personal EPIRB requirements of AS/NZS 4330:1995 with approvals from Australian Communications Authority and portable ELT requirements of Civil Aviation Safety Authority CAR252A.
Design
Microprocessor-controlled with surface-mount components. Designed for maximum impact resistance exceeding 100G. Water-proof to a depth of greater than 3 metres. Self-buoyant.
Emission Spectrum
Coherent carrier, fully compatible with COSPAS/SARSAT satelite system.
Frequencies
121.5 and 243 MHz transmitted simultaneously, crystal locked.
Odulation
Amplitude modulated, down swept tone.
Signalling Heliograph
Protected in bottom compartment.
Tether Cord
Protected in bottom compartment.
Questions and Answers (Kindly provided by KTI):
What does the acronym EPIRB mean?
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon.
What does an EPIRB do?
Activated only in a life threatening situation. An EPIRB transmits an emergency signal for a continuous period of at least 2 days. In the the case of the KTI RB2 & RB3 beacons approx. 4 days, fitted with long life batteries that retain 90% of their capacity even after 10 years.This signal is transmitted on the international emergency frequencies of 121.5 MHz and 243 MHz.
How does the KTI Mini Sat-Alert Model RB3 Personal Epirb summon help?
The 121.5 MHz frequency is continuously monitored by satellites and aircraft internationally and relayed to seach and rescue authorities. Many signals are first reported by overflying aircraft. At altitudes over 10,000 feet a beacon transmission can typically be detected from more than 50 km away. Both the 121.5 MHz and 243.0 MHz frequencies are also monitored by the COSPAS-SARSAT system using a constellation of low earth orbit satellites. These satellites orbit the earth passing over the polar regions. Combined with the rotation of the earth their paths effectively scan the surface of the earth. These satellites retransmit emergency signals back to earth. Receivers are located in most areas of the world where there is a search and rescue capability. When a satellite is visible to both an emergency transmitter and a receiver the emergency signal is relayed through the receiver to a signal processing centre where the signals are processed to analyse "doppler shift" (an effect where the frequency of the transmitter appears higher whilst the satellite is approaching the transmitter and lower whilst the satellite is retreating from the transmitter). From knowledge of the satellite's orbit path the location of the emergency transmitter can be determined with a remarkable degree of accuracy. Each time a satellite passes over the degree of location accuracy becomes greater. Once the general area of an emergency has been established, search and rescue authorities can home directly to and locate the transmitter using aircraft navigation equipment.
How accurate is the search and rescue system?
The doppler shift analysis provides two mathematical solutions to the location of the transmitter - the true transmitter location and the mirror image of this location relative to the path of the satellite. It is not always possible to determine which solution is correct until a second satellite has passed. The accuracy of the correct solution is generally claimed to be in the order of 20km with a beacon transmission conforming to the minimum specifications. The KTI emergency beacons exceed the minimum transmission requirements and have demonstrated significantly better results (typically better than 2km). Once resources are in the general area mobile equipment can be used to guide them directly to the emergency transmitter.
Who is the search and rescue authority?
The Australian Search and Rescue Authority is AUSSAR which is a Division of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) administered by the Australian Federal Government. A search and rescue response is supplied by the most appropriate body ranging from various government agencies, defense forces, emergency service volunteers and contracted commercial operators.
Where will the Mini Sat-Alert Model RB3 Personal Epirb work?
Over the whole of the Australian continent, surrounding Australian waters, New Zealand and waters surrounding New Zealand as well as most parts of the world. A total of approximately 36 receivers around the World provide coverage of most populated areas except Antarctica.
What if I am in a dense forest?
The signal transmitted by the Mini Sat-Alert Model RB3 Personal Epirb is not significantly effected by a forest canopy, heavy rain or cloud. However it should be noted that radio waves do not travel through the ground and thus will not travel far within a cave or underground tunnel. In a deep canyon the signal may not be easily detected by a satellite passing low on the horizon but should still be effective when a satellite passes more directly overhead. Transmissions from underwater are not likely to be detected at all.
How long will it take to detect and locate the Epirb?
According to AMSA, the responsible location and rescue authority:
- Within Central and South-Eastern Australian and all of New Zealand the average satellite detection time is less than one (1) hour.
- In Western and Northern Australia the average satellite detection time is less than two (2) hours.
Overflying commercial aircraft often report reception of a distress signal prior to satellite location.
It is important to note that these times relate only to the detection of the beacon signal and that actual seach and rescue response is further dependant on operational procedures and availability of appropriate resources.
Can I change the batteries in the KTI Mini Sat-Alert Model RB3 Personal Epirb?
Yes.
Warranty / Service ?
KTI provides extended warranties of up to 5 years on selected beacons and testing facilities to support, service and provide recertification of their products.
After battery replacement all beacons are fully tested for transmission power output, functionality and placed in a pressurised test tank to check the unit is waterproof.
KTI also makes available a kit containing all materials necessary for battery replacement for the RB3 beacon. This kit allows out of date battery replacement to be performed in remote locations, but signal quality and waterproofness cannot be guaranteed. We highly recommend the product be returned to KTI or it's authorised repair centre for battery replacement to ensure performance upon re-assembly.
Have many lives have been saved using this system ?
Russia launched the first satellite COSPAS 1 in june 1982 and since then it is reported 14,000 lives have been saved, 5000 in USA. The first US satellite SARSAT was launched in 1983 and the first aircraft rescue in British Columbia was in September 1982.
Contacts:
Kinetic Technology International Pty Ltd - (+61 3) 9583 9566
AUSSAR - Australian Maritime Safety Authority Public Relations - (02) 6279 5000
http://www.amsa.gov.au/sar.htm
COSPAS/SARSAT LEOSAR system?
http://www.cospas-sarsat.org/space/confign.htm
Satellite Coverage - http://www.kti.com.au/Satellite%20Coverage.htm
There are no refunds or exchanges on these products. | 
