Ocean Signal - Technology that saves lives!

Going out to sea is a fantastic experience – the freedom, nature, and the feeling of being one with the ocean. But it is also a responsible adventure, where maritime safety must always come first. Thanks to modern technology, maritime safety has taken enormous steps forward, with solutions such as emergency transmitters, AIS devices (Automatic Identification System), EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons), and man overboard devices (MOB). These products offer everything from precise GPS positioning and quick communication to robust warning systems that work even in the most extreme conditions.

Ocean Signal is a global leader in maritime safety technology, offering innovative products that can be the difference between life and death in an emergency at sea. The company combines cutting-edge electronics with practical design, making their products easy to use and extremely reliable. Their solutions are developed to meet international standards and are tested to deliver even when the unexpected happens.

In this article, we dive into Ocean Signal's product range and show how their technology can make your life at sea safer and more prepared.

Why choose Ocean Signal?

Ocean Signal focuses on developing easy-to-use, reliable, and advanced technology that helps sailors and adventurers stay safe. With a combination of cutting-edge electronics and robust constructions, their products deliver reliability even in the toughest conditions. All their products are certified according to international standards and tested to handle real emergency situations.

PLB (Personal Locator Beacon)

A PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) is a personal emergency transmitter used to send an emergency signal in life-threatening situations, often in remote locations where other communication is not possible. It is used by outdoor enthusiasts, sailors, pilots, and others who move in areas without mobile phone coverage.

The emergency signal from a PLB is sent via the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system, which is part of the international maritime and aviation rescue system (SAR). The signal is forwarded to the nearest rescue center, and in Sweden, it is the JRCC in Gothenburg that is responsible for coordinating the rescue operation. Unlike many other satellite-based emergency transmitters, PLB devices do not require a subscription, and the cost of rescue operations is covered by authorities.

PLB1

PLB1 is a personal emergency transmitter that is one of the smallest and most compact on the market. It is manually activated and sends an emergency signal to the Cospas-Sarsat satellite network, allowing rescue services to quickly locate you. PLB1 has a battery life of up to 24 hours in continuous operation and is waterproof down to 15 meters.

Advantages:

• Small and easy to carry
• Global reach via satellite
• No subscription cost

PLB3

PLB3 builds on the success of PLB1:s but adds AIS functionality (Automatic Identification System) that makes it easier for nearby vessels to locate you in an emergency. It also has a strobe light for increased visibility.

Advantages:

• Combines satellite communication and AIS
• Increased visibility with both strobe and infrared light
• Smartphone connection with NFC

Differences between PLB1 and PLB3:

• PLB1 is a basic emergency transmitter with global satellite communication, while PLB3 adds AIS functionality for nearby vessels, making it visible on their plotters.
• PLB3 also has an infrared light for increased visibility for search equipment.
• PLB3 can be managed with a smartphone using NFC.

EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon)

An EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon) is an emergency transmitter used in maritime to signal an emergency and help rescue services locate a distressed boat or vessel. It is an essential part of safety equipment for ships and is often used by commercial shipping and recreational boats.

The emergency signal from an EPIRB is sent via the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system, which is part of the international maritime and aviation rescue system (SAR). The signal is forwarded to the nearest rescue center, and in Sweden, it is the JRCC in Gothenburg that is responsible for coordinating the rescue operation. Unlike many other satellite-based emergency transmitters, EPIRB devices do not require a subscription, and the cost of rescue operations is covered by authorities.

EPIRB1

EPIRB1 is an advancement of Ocean Signal's EPIRB technology, offering better GPS accuracy and a more compact design. It is automatically activated upon contact with water or manually and is ideal for vessels that prioritize safety.

Advantages:

• Improved GPS accuracy
• Compact and robust design

• Long battery life

EPIRB3

EPIRB3 offers even more advanced features compared to EPIRB1. It has longer battery life, faster GPS updates, built-in AIS transmitter, and a smaller design that facilitates handling. It can also be managed with a smartphone through NFC.

Differences between EPIRB1 and EPIRB3:

• EPIRB1 is a basic emergency transmitter with global satellite communication, while EPIRB3 adds AIS functionality for nearby vessels, making it visible on their plotters.
• EPIRB3 also has an infrared light for increased visibility for search equipment.
• EPIRB can be managed with a smartphone using NFC.

EPIRB3 Pro

EPIRP3 Pro comes complete with a category 1 bracket (housing) for automatic release if the boat capsizes. This bracket stores your EPIRB3 Pro safely throughout the journey, regardless of the conditions experienced. It also provides the best opportunity for activation in emergency situations where it may be difficult for a crew member to reach the EPIRB unit. EPIRB3 Pro is also SOLAS approved.

MOB (Man Overboard Device)

An MOB (Man Overboard Device) is a safety device used to quickly locate and rescue a person who has fallen overboard from a ship or boat. It is especially important in marine environments where time and accuracy are crucial for saving lives.

MOB1

MOB1 is a device that automatically activates if someone falls overboard. It is compatible with most automatic life jackets and sends a signal to nearby AIS devices and DSC radio to alert the crew and facilitate quick rescue.

Advantages:

• Quick activation upon contact with water
• Sends signal up to 8 nautical miles

• Integrated GPS for accurate location

MOB2

MOB2 is an improved version of MOB1 and enables even faster communication with AIS systems and DSC radio that supports Class M regulations. This means that if MOB2 sends an alarm via DSC to a VHF radio, the VHF can acknowledge the alarm, stopping further DSC transmissions from MOB2. However, the AIS signals continue to be sent until the device is turned off. MOB2 has a longer range and is designed to function reliably even under very demanding conditions.

Differences between MOB1 and MOB2:

• MOB2 has a longer range and improved signal strength compared to MOB1.
• MOB2 supports DSC Class M regulations.

• MOB2 is more robust and better suited for extreme environments.

Comparison Table

Since maritime safety products often involve a lot of complex terms, we have made a simple overview of the different models and what distinguishes them. This way, it becomes easier for you to find the right product for your needs!

Rescue Services' Words on the Importance of Maritime Safety

Rescue services emphasize that technical aids such as emergency transmitters and AIS devices are crucial for getting quick help in accidents. When every second counts, products like those from Ocean Signal can be decisive.

Summary

Whether you are an experienced sea captain or a beginner in boating, maritime safety is not something to compromise on. Ocean Signal offers products that are not only technically advanced but also practical and easy to use. With a PLB, EPIRB, or MOB devices on board, you are always prepared for the unexpected.

Let Ocean Signal be part of your maritime safety strategy – to enjoy sea life with the assurance that help is never far away.

Want to know more? Just visit contact us at Digital Skipper to find out which product suits you best!