ACR Electronics has introduced its latest offering in maritime safety, the Pathfinder AIS SART (Search and Rescue Transmitter), aimed at enhancing search and rescue operations at sea.
The new device, which is being showcased at METSTRADE, builds upon the features of its predecessor, the Pathfinder Pro, integrating advanced AIS (Automatic Identification System) technology to provide more sophisticated safety solutions for mariners.
Compliance with IMO SOLAS regulations
The Pathfinder Pro has been widely regarded for its adherence to IMO SOLAS standards
The Pathfinder Pro has been widely regarded for its adherence to IMO SOLAS standards, significantly aiding in search and rescue missions.
With notable features like 12 radar signal blips, a robust lithium battery, and flexible installation options, it has been a go-to choice for vessels needing GMDSS compliance.
Enhanced maritime safety with AIS functionality
Incorporating AIS functionality, the Pathfinder AIS SART offers enhanced maritime safety. Unlike traditional radar, its distress signals are visible to AIS receivers aboard nearby ships, search and rescue vessels, and even aircraft.
The signals boast a longer range, reaching AIS-equipped vessels and shore stations.
Precision and real-time coordination
Updated SART employs GPS technology to accurately relay the location and status of the vessel
This updated SART employs GPS technology to accurately relay the location and status of the vessel, thereby providing precise positioning data.
Such real-time information boosts situational awareness and coordination among rescuers, facilitates vessel tracking, and speeds up response times, thus elevating the chances of a successful rescue in remote or sparsely navigated waters.
Commitment to safety advancements
Mikele D’Arcangelo, Vice President of Global Marketing and Product Management at ACR Electronics, stated, “Utilising precise AIS technology in our new GMDSS SARTs represents another pivotal advancement in maritime safety. We are leveraging these great AIS capabilities to empower mariners, giving them enhanced visibility and communication during emergencies."
"Ultimately, helping to save more lives at sea. ACR Electronics remains committed to providing the highest standard of safety equipment for the maritime industry, and the launch of the AIS-SART reaffirms this commitment.”
Features and connectivity
Pathfinder AIS SART includes Near-Field Communications (NFC) capabilities that work with the ACR mobile App
In addition to AIS technology, the Pathfinder AIS SART includes Near-Field Communications (NFC) capabilities that work with the ACR mobile App, enabling users to access self-test results, programming, and beacon performance data.
The new version preserves its predecessor's trusted features, including a durable design, extended battery life, and adaptable mounting choices.
Flexible deployment options
The AIS SART is designed to assist search and rescue teams in quickly identifying life rafts. It can be stored in a life raft or placed near emergency exits to be carried to safety if needed.
ACR Electronics will continue offering both the existing Pathfinder Pro Radar SART and the new AIS SART, ensuring that customers have reliable tools to meet compliance and safety demands at sea.
ACR Electronics, the pioneering provider of safety and survival equipment, is launching its latest innovation in maritime safety technology – the Pathfinder AIS SART (Search and Rescue Transmitter).
Debuting at METSTRADE, the new AIS SART builds upon the success of its predecessor, the ACR Pathfinder Pro, combining proven reliability with cutting-edge AIS (Automatic Identification System) technology to advance search and rescue efforts at sea.
IMO SOLAS regulations
The ACR Pathfinder Pro has long been trusted by mariners worldwide for its compliance with IMO SOLAS regulations and its ability to significantly enhance search and rescue operations.
With its 12 intense blips returned to radar screens upon interrogation, superior lithium battery life, and versatile mounting options, the Pathfinder Pro has been a staple for vessels requiring GMDSS compliance.
New level of maritime safety
Now, with the introduction of AIS functionality, the Pathfinder AIS SART offers a new level of maritime safety.
Unlike traditional radar signals, the Pathfinder AIS provides increased visibility, with its distress signals received and displayed on any AIS-receivers installed on nearby ships, SAR vessels, and aircraft. The AIS signals can also be picked up by AIS-equipped vessels and shore stations over a longer range.
Improves situational awareness and coordination
This next-generation SART, which utilises GPS technology, can precisely transmit the vessel’s location and status, and provide more accurate positioning information.
This real-time data exchange greatly improves situational awareness and coordination among rescuers, it allows vessel tracking to prevent collisions, and expedites response times to increase the likelihood of a swift and successful rescue, even in remote or less-trafficked areas.
Advancement in maritime safety
“Utilising precise AIS technology in our new GMDSS SARTs represents another pivotal advancement in maritime safety,” said Mikele D’Arcangelo, Vice President of Global Marketing and Product Management, ACR Electronics. “We are leveraging these great AIS capabilities to empower mariners, giving them enhanced visibility and communication during emergencies. Ultimately, helping to save more lives at sea."
“ACR Electronics remains committed to providing the highest standard of safety equipment for the maritime industry, and the launch of the AIS-SART reaffirms this commitment.”
New AIS version of the Pathfinder
In addition to its AIS functionality, the Pathfinder AIS also provides users with Near-Field Communications, or NFC capabilities, which allows for use with the ACR mobile App to view self-test, programming and beacon performance metrics.
The new AIS version of the Pathfinder retains all the features that have made the Pathfinder Pro a trusted companion for mariners, including its rugged design, long battery life, and versatile mounting options.
New Pathfinder AIS SART
The ACR Pathfinder AIS is designed to help search and rescue services quickly locate a life raft in the event of a rescue at sea. The AIS SART can either be stowed in a life raft or mounted next to emergency exits and then carried to the life raft in an emergency.
ACR will continue to manufacture the Pathfinder Pro Radar SART alongside the new Pathfinder AIS SART, providing customers with the technology options they trust to keep them compliant and safe at sea.
