At sea, speed of response is the decisive factor for survival. An EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) or a MOB (Man Overboard) device are not simple accessories - they are vital communication tools that interface with the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system or with on-board AIS receivers. When you navigate offshore or make passages, relying on components subject to strict certifications is the only way to ensure that the distress signal reaches its destination, regardless of visual range.
The technical distinction between a satellite EPIRB and an AIS man-overboard transponder is clear-cut. While the former alerts international rescue coordination centers, the latter notifies vessels in the immediate vicinity. Making the right choice means evaluating the type of navigation, the number of crew members, and whether AIS receiving systems are already installed on board. Our technical support helps you distinguish between transmission specifications and the mandatory registration procedures for each device.
Nautiba manages the selection of devices by verifying supply lead times and technical expiration dates - an aspect that is often overlooked. Each device has a battery with a defined service life and a specific programming that must be correct at the time of purchase. We do not simply deliver the product - we verify that the choice complies with current regulations for your vessel type, thereby avoiding compatibility errors that in an emergency could prove fatal.
Criteria for choosing signaling systems
Before defining your safety configuration, consider these fundamental technical elements for your type of vessel:
- Always verify EPIRB compliance with your navigation zone: for navigation with no distance-from-shore limit, an EPIRB is an essential requirement.
- Consider integrated GPS: a model with GPS dramatically reduces location times compared to a device that relies solely on satellite triangulation.
- Consider the activation system: a hydrostatic release model is necessary for vessels where external mounting is planned, while a manual model is sufficient for a liferaft.
- For MOB devices, check compatibility with the on-board AIS receiver: immediate display of the target on the chartplotter screen is the main advantage of these systems.
- Remember battery expiration: every device has a nominal service life, typically several years, after which replacement is mandatory to maintain certified performance.
What is the main difference between an EPIRB and an AIS transponder?
An EPIRB is a global satellite transmitter that alerts rescue authorities anywhere in the world. An AIS transponder is a local device that sends an alarm signal visible only to vessels equipped with an AIS receiver within a few nautical miles.
Is MMSI code registration mandatory for an EPIRB?
Yes, every EPIRB must be registered with the relevant authority, linking it to the vessel's radio identification code and vessel data. Without this registration, the distress signal does not allow authorities to correctly identify the vessel in distress.
What does hydrostatic release activation mean?
It means the device is housed in a container that opens automatically when submerged to a specific depth, releasing the EPIRB so it can float to the surface and begin transmitting - even if the vessel is sinking rapidly.
Can the EPIRB battery be replaced by the user?
No, battery replacement must be carried out by authorized service centers, which also test the watertight seal and correct signal output, ensuring that the device meets its original technical specifications after servicing.
Why do I need a MOB device if I already have an EPIRB?
The MOB device is designed for the immediate recovery of a person who has fallen overboard. While the EPIRB is used in a total vessel emergency, the MOB allows the crew to instantly locate the person in the water via the on-board chartplotter.
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