McMurdo FastFind 220 Personal Locator Beacon User Manual

1. Introduction

The McMurdo FastFind 220 is a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) designed to transmit distress signals in emergency situations. This device is pre-programmed for registration with the US country code, meaning that in an emergency, the initial point of contact will be the US Search and Rescue authorities. While the FastFind 220 functions globally, its registration is tied to US search and rescue protocols. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your FastFind 220 PLB.

Figure 1: McMurdo FastFind 220 Personal Locator Beacon and its packaging. The image shows two yellow beacons, one in front of the packaging and one held by a hand, with a graphic of a rescue helicopter in the background.

2. Important Safety Information

The FastFind 220 PLB is intended for use only in situations of grave and imminent danger to life. Misuse of this device can have serious consequences. Please read and understand the following:

• Grave and Imminent Danger: Activate the PLB only when your life is in immediate peril and all other means of communication or self-rescue have failed or are unavailable.
• False Alerts: Deliberate misuse or accidental activation resulting in a false alert endangers lives and causes significant disruption and expense to Search and Rescue (SAR) services. Such actions may result in legal penalties.
• Registration is Mandatory: In most countries, including the US, registering your PLB is a legal requirement. Registration provides SAR teams with vital information about your identity, emergency contacts, and travel plans, which is crucial for a timely and effective rescue operation. Without this information, rescue efforts may be delayed.
• US Programming: This specific FastFind 220 unit is pre-programmed for registration with US authorities. If you intend to register and use the device outside of the US, you must obtain a unit programmed for "Rest of World" or arrange for reprogramming through an authorized service.

3. Setup and Registration

3.1 Unboxing and Initial Inspection

Upon receiving your FastFind 220 PLB, carefully remove it from its packaging. Inspect the device for any visible damage. Ensure that the anti-tamper seal is intact and that the antenna is properly stowed. The package should include the device and a pouch.

3.2 Product Registration

Registration of your Personal Locator Beacon is a critical step and is legally required in the United States. This process links your unique beacon identification code to your personal information, emergency contacts, and vessel/aircraft details (if applicable). This information is essential for Search and Rescue (SAR) teams to identify you and initiate an appropriate response in an emergency.

• Where to Register: For US-programmed units, registration is typically done with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Visit the official NOAA beacon registration website for instructions and to complete your registration.
• Information Required: You will need to provide personal details, emergency contact information, and details about your planned activities or vessel/aircraft.
• Keep Information Updated: It is crucial to keep your registration information current. Any changes to your contact details, emergency contacts, or typical travel plans should be updated promptly.

Failure to register your PLB or keep its information updated can severely hinder rescue efforts.

Figure 2: The McMurdo FastFind 220 Personal Locator Beacon securely placed within its protective pouch, ready for transport or storage.

4. Operating the FastFind 220 PLB

4.1 Performing a Self-Test

Regular self-tests ensure your PLB is functioning correctly without transmitting a false distress signal. Refer to the device's specific instructions for initiating a self-test. Typically, this involves pressing and holding the "TEST" button for a short duration. The device will indicate a successful test, often with a flashing light or audible signal.

Figure 3: A detailed view of the front face of the FastFind 220 PLB, highlighting the central 'TEST' button and the 'OFF' position indicator below it. The 'FastFind 220 PLB' branding is clearly visible.

4.2 Activating the PLB in an Emergency

In a genuine life-threatening emergency, follow these steps to activate your FastFind 220 PLB:

1. Deploy the Antenna: Locate the antenna and extend it fully. The antenna must be upright and unobstructed for optimal signal transmission.
2. Remove Anti-Tamper Seal: Break or remove the anti-tamper seal that protects the activation mechanism. This seal is designed to prevent accidental activation.
3. Press the ON Button: Press and hold the designated ON button until the activation indicator (usually an LED light) confirms the device is transmitting.
4. Position for Best Signal: Place the activated PLB in an open area with a clear view of the sky. Ensure the antenna remains upright and unobstructed. This allows the device to acquire GPS coordinates and transmit the distress signal to satellites.

Figure 4: A side profile of the FastFind 220 PLB, illustrating the top section with clear visual instructions (numbered 1, 2, 3) for deploying the antenna and activating the device. The '406' marking is also visible.

4.3 Signal Transmission

Once activated, the FastFind 220 transmits a distress signal on the 406 MHz frequency to the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system. It also transmits a homing signal on 121.5 MHz to aid local Search and Rescue teams in pinpointing your exact location. The integrated GPS receiver provides accurate location data, significantly speeding up rescue operations.

4.4 Deactivating the PLB

To deactivate the PLB after an emergency or accidental activation, refer to the specific instructions on the device or in the full manufacturer's manual. Typically, this involves moving the switch to the "OFF" position or pressing a specific button sequence. If an accidental activation occurs, immediately contact the relevant Search and Rescue authority (e.g., US Coast Guard or NOAA) to report the false alarm and prevent unnecessary deployment of rescue resources.

5. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the reliability of your FastFind 220 PLB when it is most needed.

• Regular Visual Inspection: Periodically inspect the device for any signs of damage, cracks, or corrosion. Ensure the antenna is intact and the anti-tamper seal is in place.
• Battery Life: The FastFind 220 has a long-life internal battery. Check the battery expiry date marked on the device. Do not attempt to replace the battery yourself; contact an authorized service center for battery replacement when due.
• Cleaning: Clean the exterior of the device with a damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Ensure the device is completely dry before storage.
• Storage: Store the PLB in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Keep it protected from physical impact.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your FastFind 220 PLB.

• Device Fails Self-Test: If the self-test indicates a failure, ensure the device is fully charged (if applicable) and that the antenna is not obstructed. If the issue persists, contact McMurdo support or an authorized service center.
• Accidental Activation: If the PLB is accidentally activated, immediately contact the appropriate Search and Rescue authority (e.g., US Coast Guard or NOAA) to report the false alarm. Provide your beacon's unique identification number and your location.
• No GPS Fix: In some environments (e.g., dense foliage, indoors, deep canyons), the PLB may take longer to acquire a GPS fix or may not acquire one at all. Ensure the device has a clear view of the sky when activated. The 406 MHz signal will still transmit without GPS, but location accuracy will be reduced.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty Information

Specific warranty details for the McMurdo FastFind 220 Personal Locator Beacon are not provided in this document. For comprehensive warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the documentation included with your product at the time of purchase or visit the official McMurdo website.

9. Customer Support

For technical assistance, service, or further inquiries regarding your McMurdo FastFind 220 PLB, please visit the official McMurdo website or contact their customer support directly. Contact information and support resources are typically available on the manufacturer's website.

Manufacturer Website: www.mcmurdogroup.com