ACR Electronics Pathfinder SART with AIS - Maritime 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 (Part Number 2940) is a fully compliant, IMO SOLAS-approved device designed for maritime safety and emergency response. This compact and rugged transponder utilizes AIS technology to transmit real-time distress signals, enhancing vessel visibility and rescue operations. Its advanced design ensures reliable performance in harsh marine environments, offering peace of mind for vessels operating on international waters.

Equipped with AIS class-A position reporting, the Pathfinder SART sends a series of eight identical messages every minute on two VHF channels, significantly increasing the likelihood of detection by nearby AIS-equipped vessels. Its average detection range of approximately 5 nautical miles ensures effective coverage for most rescue scenarios, with much greater ranges from aircraft, making it suitable for a wide array of maritime applications. The device features a waterproof construction rated to 10 meters (33 feet) and is drop-proof from heights of 20 meters, ensuring durability under extreme conditions.

Designed for ease of use and installation, the Pathfinder SART includes a waterproof mounting bracket, mounting screws, and an attachment lanyard. Its compact size—less than 9 inches tall—allows it to be easily stored in life rafts or attached to life crafts, with optional accessories like a telescopic pole extending up to 3.3 feet for enhanced visibility. Powered by a lithium battery with a 96-hour operational life, it includes NFC technology for product registration and testing, simplifying maintenance and compliance checks. The device meets multiple international standards, including IEC, MED, FCC, and GMDSS requirements, making it suitable for all vessels mandated to carry SARTs.

In addition to its core features, the Pathfinder SART supports manual deployment, operates across a wide temperature range from -20°C to +55°C, and complies with safety standards for portable marine equipment. Its low weight and compact design make it an ideal choice for both commercial ships and recreational vessels carrying multiple life rafts or life crafts. Ensuring your vessel's compliance with international safety regulations, the ACR Electronics Pathfinder AIS SART is an essential safety device for any maritime operation seeking dependable emergency tracking and rescue capability.

Features:

• AIS class-A position report sent once per minute as 8 identical messages on two VHF channels, increasing detection probability

• Approximate detection range of 5 nautical miles, with greater ranges from aircraft up to 130 nautical miles at high altitude

• Includes mounting bracket, screws, and attachment lanyard for easy installation

• Compact size measures less than 9 inches tall, suitable for storage in life rafts

• Waterproof to depths of 10 meters (33 feet) and drop-proof from 20 meters

• Lithium battery with a 96-hour operational life and NFC technology for registration and testing

• Meets international standards including IMO, MED, FCC, IEC, and GMDSS regulations

• Manual deployment with operation across temperatures from -20°C to +55°C

• Optional telescopic pole extends to 3.3 feet for increased visibility