EPIRB battries and testing

[rogerthebodger]

I have a McMurdo EPIRB which will need the batteries to be replaces. I have opened the unit and found 3 D type tagged batteries and found RS have there which seem to be the same.

The volatage of the current batteries are 3 volts but the RS ones are 3.6 so should be OK. Any one know if these are in fact OK.

The EPIRB has a test button, does any one know if this tests by sending a signal to the satellite and maybe to MCA whith a return to confirm total end to end transmission. If not can the end to end transmission be tested by arrangment.

My question is as a result of the loss of Moquini when the EPIRB send only one signal message then stopped so I would like to be able to completley test the end to end messaging so confirming receipt of message

 

[michael_w]

A bit of googling brings up These guys who are the McMurdo agents in your neck of the woods.

FWIW I had McMurdo UK overhaul and replace the battery in my E3 unit at a cost of £160.

 

[pvb]

[ QUOTE ]
The EPIRB has a test button, does any one know if this tests by sending a signal to the satellite and maybe to MCA whith a return to confirm total end to end transmission. If not can the end to end transmission be tested by arrangment.

[/ QUOTE ]Your EPIRB is a transmit-only device, so you won't get any return signal. Whilst theoretically it would be possible to run a live test, the authorities aren't happy about doing it - read about it here.

As for replacing the batteries yourself, I suppose if you're careful you could do it. Interesting that the batteries from RS are quoted as having only 1% self-discharge a year and a 10-year shelf life.

 

[rogerthebodger]

Yes I know then and also how much they charge to change the batteries. 160GBP is a good price compaired to RSA.

The RS ones are priced at 15 GBP each and 3 are needed. 45 GBP is much cheaper than your 160 GBP and I think much better spec