Description
ACR Pathfinder PRO SART | Boat Supply Store
For critical marine search and rescue operations, this SOLAS-compliant radar transponder is engineered to deliver a distinct, high-intensity signal on a 9.2-9.5 GHz marine radar display, creating up to 12 visible blips that significantly enhance location probability. Its robust design includes a user-replaceable lithium battery providing an extended 96 hours of standby life and a critical 12 hours of active transmission, ensuring operational readiness in prolonged distress scenarios. Measuring 8.94" x 2.56" x 2.36" and weighing 15.5 oz, this device offers waterproof integrity to IP67 and operates reliably in temperatures from -20°C to +55°C, making it indispensable for commercial vessels and offshore anglers.
Key Features
- Achieve clear radar returns with 12 distinct, intense blips for superior target acquisition.
- Operate confidently as it transmits across the vital 9.2-9.5 GHz marine radar band.
- Rely on superior lithium battery performance offering over 96 hours standby and 12 hours active operational life.
- Benefit from a sleek wall mount for readily accessible and organized storage.
- Maximize height and visibility with the included attached telescopic pole.
- Deploy hands-free for optimal positioning within a survival craft.
- Utilize a non-hazmat lithium battery with a 5-year replacement interval.
- Ensure long-term operational readiness with an end-user replaceable battery.
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| SOLAS-compliant | Yes |
| Frequency Band | 9.2-9.5 GHz |
| Activation | Manual |
| Battery Type | Non-Hazmat Lithium |
| Battery Replacement Life | 5 years |
| Standby Life | 96 hours |
| Active Life | 12 hours |
| Dimensions | 8.94" x 2.56" x 2.36" (22.7 x 6.5 x 6 cm) |
| Weight | 15.5 oz (440 g) |
| Waterproof Rating | IP67 |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +55°C |
Who This Is For
Commercial vessels mandated for GMDSS compliance and any vessel equipped with more than one life raft will find this SART a critical safety component. Recreational boaters seeking to significantly augment their vessel's or survival craft's rescue visibility and preparedness will also benefit from its advanced radar transponder capabilities.
How It Compares
| Feature | ACR Pathfinder PRO SART | Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Activation | Manual | Manual |
| Battery Life (Standby) | 96 Hours | 96 Hours |
| Battery Life (Active) | 12 Hours | 12 Hours |
| Waterproof Rating | IP67 | IP67 |
| Battery Type | Lithium/Iron Disulfide (Li/FeS2) | Lithium |
Common Concerns Answered
Why is the extension pole sold separately?
The ACR Pathfinder PRO SART is designed for maximum operational flexibility, allowing users to select the optimal mounting and deployment configuration. While the SART itself is immediately functional, the separately sold extension pole enhances its deployment height and therefore its detection range by radar, a crucial factor in maximizing search and rescue effectiveness.
Is the ACR Pathfinder PRO SART difficult to understand or set up?
The SART's core function is straightforward manual activation. For optimal utilization and understanding of its radar return characteristics, familiarization with SART principles and deployment procedures is recommended. Comprehensive documentation is provided to assist users in understanding its capabilities and operation.
Is the cost of the SART justified?
The ACR Pathfinder PRO SART is a SOLAS-compliant, critical piece of lifesaving equipment designed for maximum reliability and performance in distress scenarios. Its robust build, extended battery life, user-replaceable battery, and clear radar signature offer significant value in enhancing the probability of a successful rescue for both commercial and serious recreational mariners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a SART and why is it important?
A Search and Rescue Transponder (SART) is a portable, electronic device designed to aid in the location of survival craft or vessels in distress by emitting a radar transponder signal. When interrogated by a radar, it transmits a series of distinctive blips that are clearly visible on the radar screen, dramatically increasing the chances of a quick and accurate rescue.
How does the ACR Pathfinder PRO SART work?
When activated and within the range of a searching vessel's radar, the ACR Pathfinder PRO SART responds to radar pulses by transmitting its own signal. This signal is displayed as a series of twelve bright blips on the searching vessel's radar screen, pinpointing the SART's location.
What is the battery life of the ACR Pathfinder PRO SART?
The ACR Pathfinder PRO SART is powered by a user-replaceable lithium battery that provides over 96 hours of standby life and a minimum of 12 hours of active transmission time, ensuring extended operational capability during a rescue event.
Is the ACR Pathfinder PRO SART compliant with SOLAS regulations?
Yes, the ACR Pathfinder PRO SART is SOLAS-compliant, meeting the stringent international safety standards required for commercial vessels and other maritime applications where mandatory SART carriage is specified.
Can the battery be replaced by the user?
Yes, the ACR Pathfinder PRO SART features a non-hazmat lithium battery that is user-replaceable, allowing for convenient and cost-effective battery management and ensuring the device is always ready for deployment.