NSS-PLB 06
NATIONAL SEARCH AND RESCUE SECRETARIAT PERFORMANCE STANDARD
FOR 406 MHZ PERSONAL LOCATOR BEACON (PLB)

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Scope

This document calls up the minimum requirements for the functional and technical performance of Canadian Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) operating in the 406 to 406.1 MHz band. It covers the performance of PLBs intended for use in the operating temperature ranges of -40°C to +55°C (Class 1) and -20°C to +55°C (Class 2) and a non-operating range of -55°C to +75°C.

1.2 Purpose and Intended Use

PLBs are designed to be carried by individuals in remote locations and exposed to risk where the use of PLBs will alert authorities to a distress situation and the location of the alerting beacon. When activated, the PLB transmits a coded signal at a designated frequency in the 406 to 406.1 MHz band to alert search and rescue (SAR) authorities via the COSPAS-SARSAT (C/S) satellite system. The PLB may also transmit a low power signal on 121.5 MHz, which is primarily a homing signal for rescue forces. Some PLBs also incorporate two-way voice transceivers. The testing procedures for PLBs with voice transceivers are found at Annex E to C/S T.007, the COSPAS-SARSAT 406 MHz DISTRESS BEACON TYPE APPROVAL STANDARD. The PLB consists of a transmit module, an integral antenna, ancillary devices, and a battery power source, all contained in an impact resistant watertight case. Coded identification data is entered into the PLB memory by the manufacturer; Location Protocol PLBs also include encoded position data that is provided to the beacon in real time via internal or external navigation devices. PLBs are envisioned to be used in two general environments, areas with water (e.g. rivers, lakes, oceans, flooding) and areas without significant water (e.g. deserts, mountains). Therefore, this recommended standard includes two categories of PLBs, Category 1 which must float and Category 2 which is not required to float.

1.3 Applicable Specifications and Regulations

1.3.1 Industry Canada

The latest version of the following documents shall apply:

• Radio Standards Specification (RSS) 287, [Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons, Emergency Locator Transmitters and Personal Locator Beacons];
• Radio Standards Procedure (RSP) 100, "Certification of Radio Equipment";
• Telecommunications Regulation Circular (TRC) 49: "Certification Service Fees". The current versions of these documents are available on the Industry Canada web site (http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/).

1.3.2 National Search and Rescue Secretariat (NSS) and COSPAS-SARSAT Program Documents

• Specification for COSPAS-SARSAT 406 MHz Distress Beacons, C/S T.001, as amended from time to time.
• COSPAS-SARSAT 406 MHz Distress Beacon Type Approval Standard, C/S T.007 as amended from time to time. The current issues of these documents are generally available on the COSPAS-SARSAT web site at http://www.COSPAS-SARSAT.org/. It is recommended that the Secretariat Technical Officer be contacted to ensure that the latest changes are included. The telephone number is 514-954-6692.

1.3.3 Other

MIL - STD 810 E MIL specs can be obtained over the internet at http://www.weibull.com/knowledge/milhdbk.htm#800.

1.4 Type Approval

PLBs shall comply with the standards set forth in this document at 1.3.1 and 1.3.2 and as required by Industry Canada (IC). Information regarding the IC type approval process can be obtained on the web site or at the following address:

Industry Canada
Certification and Engineering Bureau
Equipment Certification Section
1241 Clyde Avenue
Ottawa, Ontario
K2C lY3
Telephone: (613) 998-5968
FAX: (613) 952-1088

1.5 Interpretation of this Document

In case of difficulty concerning the interpretation of the contents of this document, and the application of specified test methods, the NSS shall determine the correct interpretation. If there is variation between this document and the documents described in paragraphs 1.3, the more stringent specification shall apply.