1988 - Tron DEC 406 MHz Decoder

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Jotron's Contribution to GMDSS Implementation

Manufacturer: Jotron (Norway)

• Testing Scope: Cospas-Sarsat EPIRBs (406.025  MHz channel)
• Dimensions: Not specified
• Available for Purchase: No
• GPS Signal Decoding: No

Jotron hasbeen pivotal in implementing the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System(GMDSS). Since the IMO introduced GMDSS in 1992, it mandated the installationof one 406 MHz float-free EPIRB, two radar transponders, and two handheld VHFradios on all SOLAS vessels. Jotron has been a primary supplier of thisessential emergency equipment.

Starting in1970, Jotron produced the world's first EPIRBs, marking a significant milestonein maritime safety. In 1988-1989, they introduced the first EPIRB tester, theTron Dec, capable of decoding transmissions from all existing Cospas-Sarsatbeacons at the time. This tester was specifically designed to decode the406.025 MHz channel, enhancing the reliability and effectiveness of maritimeemergency response systems.

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1991 - EPIRB DiagnosticTool KIA-K

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JSC Musson's Contribution to EPIRB Testers

Manufacturer: JSC Musson (Ukraine)

• Testing Scope: Cospas-Sarsat EPIRBs (406.025  MHz channel)
• Dimensions: Not specified
• Available for Purchase: No
• GPS Signal Decoding: No

The first EPIRB tester from Ukraine was developedby the renowned JSC Musson, a prominent producer of maritime radio equipment inthe USSR for over 30 years. Designed to test ARB-M EPIRBs made by JSC Musson,this device featured a desktop case and could display the HEX content ofCospas-Sarsat messages without decoding them. It also measured power levels.Produced between 1991 and 1993, it was primarily sold in the former SovietUnion.

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1992- ARG 5410

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ARG/Sartech's Contribution to EPIRB Testers

Manufacturer: ARG/Sartech (United Kingdom)

• Testing Scope: Cospas-Sarsat EPIRBs, PLBs,  ELTs (406.025 MHz and 121.5 MHz channels)
• Dimensions: 255×95×40 mm, 680 g
• Available for Purchase: No
• GPS Signal Decoding: Yes

SartechEngineering, recognizing the importance of reliable emergency transmitters,collaborated with ARG Electrodesign to develop the ARG 5410. This portableEPIRB tester, launched in the mid-1990s, featured a PDA-based interface,user-friendly software, and the ability to program some beacon types. Known forits "plain English" testing procedure, the ARG 5410 became theindustry standard for EPIRB testers, ensuring efficient and accurate signaldecoding.

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2000 - Tron UniDec EPIRBTester

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Jotron's Tron UniDec: A Reliable EPIRB Tester

Manufacturer: Jotron (Norway)

• Testing Scope: Cospas-Sarsat EPIRBs, PLBs  (406.000-406.100 MHz)
• Dimensions: 119x58x30 mm, 170 g
• Available for Purchase: Yes
• GPS Signal Decoding: Yes

In 2000,Jotron introduced the Tron UniDec, a new EPIRB tester supporting the fullCospas-Sarsat frequency range (406.000-406.100 MHz). This model replaced theTron Dec due to the inclusion of GPS in EPIRBs and the release of Jotron's Tron40 GPS. Despite its longevity and unchanged design, the Tron UniDec remains areliable tester, requiring an external computer to operate. However, its agingelectrical design faces challenges with component obsolescence.

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2000- Device For EPIRB Diagnostics And Control

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Musson-Morsvyaz EPIRB Tester

Manufacturer: Musson-Morsvyaz (Ukraine)

• Testing Scope: Cospas-Sarsat EPIRBs (406.025  MHz and 121.5 MHz channels)
• Dimensions: 200x75x45 mm, 1.5 kg
• Available for Purchase: No
• GPS Signal Decoding: Yes

Musson-Morsvyazdeveloped a handheld yet heavy EPIRB tester as a logical evolution from JSCMusson's diagnostic tools. This device could measure EPIRB parametersautomatically via cable or broadcast. Initially, results were displayed on ascreen and printed, but this method proved inconvenient and was replaced withPC processing. The tester supported only the 406.025 MHz Cospas-Sarsatfrequency.

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2004 - BT 100

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WST's BT100: A Revolutionary EPIRB Tester

Manufacturer: WST (Canada)

• Testing Scope: Cospas-Sarsat EPIRBs, PLBs,  ELTs (406.0-406.1 MHz and 121.5 MHz channels)
• Dimensions: 140x77x17 mm
• Available for Purchase: No
• GPS Signal Decoding: Yes

WST, aleader in beacon testing technology, introduced the BT100, a truly portableEPIRB tester supporting the full Cospas-Sarsat frequency range. Featuring alarge color screen, it could measure 406 MHz phase modulation and frequencystability, and generate detailed graphics of power bursts. The BT100 allowedreport generation directly on the device. A ruggedized version, meetingMIL-STD-810F standards, was designed for harsh environments, making it thestandard for accurate EPIRB measurements.

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2004 - ARG 5410 MKII

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ARG/Sartech's Second Generation EPIRB Tester

Manufacturer: ARG/Sartech (United Kingdom)

• Testing Scope:     Cospas-Sarsat EPIRBs, ELTs, PLBs (406.020-406.030 MHz and 121.5 MHz  channels)
• Dimensions: 195x87x52 mm,     540 g
• Available for Purchase:     Yes
• GPS Signal Decoding: Yes

The second-generation EPIRB tester by ARG/Sartech, described as a "newversion of industry standard tester," is lighter and more compact than itspredecessor. It features a custom-designed case, moving away from the PDA-baseddesign. Key improvements include the ability to measure power (RSSI) in both406 MHz and 121.5 MHz channels. This device is still in production andavailable for purchase, serviced by Sartech.

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2005 - Beacon Tester 406 02

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Musson-Morsvyaz/Musson Marine Beacon Tester 406 02

Manufacturer: Musson-Morsvyaz/Musson Marine(Ukraine)

• Testing Scope:     Cospas-Sarsat EPIRBs, PLBs (406.020-406.040 MHz and 121.5 MHz channels)
• Dimensions: 200x100x45 mm,     <1 kg
• Available for Purchase: No
• GPS Signal Decoding: Yes

The Beacon Tester 406 02 was a collaboration between Musson-Morsvyaz andMusson Marine. This first-generation model was significantly lighter and morecompact than its predecessor, featuring a user-friendly interface. It supportedan extended range of Cospas-Sarsat frequencies compared to the previousversion. However, it faced challenges when testing EPIRBs from variousmanufacturers.

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2010 - Beacon Tester 406 02

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Musson Marine's Second Generation Beacon Tester

Manufacturer: Musson Marine (Ukraine)

• Testing Scope: Cospas-Sarsat  EPIRBs, PLBs, ELTs (406.020-406.040 MHz and 121.5 MHz channels)
• Dimensions: 195x101x43 mm,  350 g
• Available for Purchase: No
• GPS Signal Decoding: Yes

The second generation of beacon testers from Musson Marine introducedsignificant advancements, including portability, a backlit screen for aconvenient interface, and the capability to measure via antenna or cable forincreased accuracy. Users could connect the tester to a PC via USB to saveresults and generate automatic reports in the IMO-required format. The devicesupported a limited frequency range but was highly reliable and widely usedglobally, showing excellent results in testing EPIRBs from variousmanufacturers.

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2016 - BT 406 Mini/Wi-fi

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Aeromarine SRT BT 406 Mini/WiFi: A Compact and VersatileBeacon Tester

Manufacturer: Aeromarine SRT (formerlyMusson Marine, Ukraine)

• Testing Scope:   Cospas-Sarsat EPIRBs, PLBs, ELTs (406.0-406.1 MHz and 121.5 MHz channels)
• Dimensions: 83x54x19 mm,   150 g
• Available for Purchase:  Yes
• GPS Signal Decoding: Yes

The BT 406 Mini/WiFi is one of the most compact beacon testers, designed tofit in your pocket with a lightweight, durable aluminum casing. It connects toany mobile device (smartphone, tablet, laptop) via Wi-Fi, supporting allplatforms with a browser. Complying with IMO standards, it measures 406 and121.5 MHz channels, decodes Cospas-Sarsat messages, and generates IMO-requiredreports directly from a mobile phone. This versatile and attractively priceddevice is ideal for maritime professionals seeking reliability and convenience.

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2017 - BT200

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WST's BT200: The Advanced Beacon Tester

Manufacturer: WST (Canada)

• Testing Scope:  Cospas-Sarsat EPIRBs, AIS-EPIRBs, PLBs, ELTs (406.0-406.1 MHz and 121.5     MHz channels)
• Dimensions: 135x70x20 mm,  222 g
• Available for Purchase:  Yes
• GPS Signal Decoding: Yes

Building on the BT100's features, the BT200 offers enhanced measurementcapabilities in a compact, robust package. It includes AIS measurements andsupports all necessary IMO requirements, including in-band spectrum andfrequency instability. The device has an IP68 waterproof rating and does notrequire an attenuator. It is also ready for testing Second-Generation EPIRBs.Despite its high price, the BT200's advanced features make it a top choice formaritime professionals.

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2017 - BT200

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CETC Maritime Electronics Ltd EPIRB Tester

Manufacturer: CETC Maritime Electronics Ltd(China)

• Testing Scope: Cospas-Sarsat EPIRBs, PLBs, ELTs (406.0-406.1 MHz and 121.5 MHz channels)
• Dimensions: 103x55x25 mm
• Available for Purchase:  Yes
• GPS Signal Decoding: Not specified

This compact and lightweight EPIRB tester from CETC Maritime Electronics Ltdfeatures low power consumption and complies with IMO requirements. It isprimarily sold in the domestic Chinese market, offering a practical solutionfor maritime safety testing with its small size and user-friendly design.

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2018 - Beacon Tester 406 02

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Aeromarine SRT's Updated EPIRB Tester

Manufacturer: Aeromarine SRT (formerlyMusson Marine, Ukraine)

• Testing Scope:  Cospas-Sarsat EPIRBs, PLBs, ELTs (406.0-406.1 MHz and 121.5 MHz channels)
• Dimensions: 195x101x43 mm,  350 g
• Available for Purchase:  Yes
• GPS Signal Decoding: Yes

The updated version of this popular EPIRB tester features a more durable andbrighter design. The supported Cospas-Sarsat frequency range has been increasedto 406.0-406.1 MHz. It is compatible with the latest Aeromarine SRT software,supporting cloud-based measurement saving and automatic report generation inIMO format. This makes it a highly efficient tool for modern maritime safetyrequirements.

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2024- EPIRB Tester SMEAT

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SEALINK SMEAT: The World’s Smallest Smart Tester

Manufacturer: SEALINK (Netherlands)

• Testing Scope:
• Dimensions:
• Available for Purchase:     Yes
• GPS Signal Decoding: Yes

Designedwith user convenience in mind, our device features an intuitive interface thatguides users through the testing process step by step. Clear instructions,visual indicators, and user-friendly controls ensure ease of operation,minimizing the learning curve and facilitating efficient testing.

Ourstate-of-the-art testing solution offers advanced features to accuratelyevaluate and validate the performance of various beacon devices, ensuringunwavering reliability in securing lives. The updated version includes a moredurable and visually appealing design, compatibility with the latest AeromarineSRT software, and support for cloud-based measurement saving and automaticreport generation in IMO format.

This smarttester's testing solution is a state-of-the-art, advanced system that offers arange of features to accurately evaluate and verify the performance of EPIRB,AIS-EPIRB, VDR FFC EPIRB, AIS, AIS Sart, VHF and UHF Radio. It can also testRadio, DSC, MOB, PLB and Underwater Ultrasonic Beacon devices.

This testerhas become an essential tool for maritime professionals, providingcomprehensive testing capabilities and ensuring compliance with the highestsafety standards.

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