How does EPIRB work/ function?
When the EPIRB is activated it transmits on 406.025 MHz. A digital signal is transmitted on 406.025 MHz. After the EPIRB is activated, the next passing satellite will detect the transmitted signal and relay it to an antenna at a ground station, called a LUT.
Once the signal is received by the LUT, it is processed for location and sent to a Mission Control Centre (MCC). The MCC sorts the alert data according to geographic search and rescue regions and distributes the information to the appropriate Rescue Co-ordination Centre (RCC), or if outside the national search and rescue area, to the appropriate MCC that covers the area where the distress signal was detected.
The RCC in turn takes the necessary action to initiate search and rescue activities. 406 MHz beacons will be detected by the Cospas- Sarsat satellite system. This affects all maritime beacons (EPIRBs), all aviation beacons (ELTs) and all personal beacons (PLBs).
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