EMERGENCY BEACON CORPORATION EBC-406HM - User Manual

BE SURE TO REGISTER
THIS ELT
EBC-406HM
EMERGENCY LOCATOR TRANSMITTER
INSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL
EMERGENCY BEACON CORPORATION
461 TIMPSON PLACE
BRONX, NY 10455
PHONE (718) 401-0288
FAX (718) 401-0663
E-mail: emergencybeacon@roanwellcorp.com
Web: www.emergencybeaconcorp.com
July 2022
Rev. 8

Summary

General Description

Registering Your ELT

Toggle Switch Functions

ON Position

Manually activates the ELT, transmitting distress signals on multiple frequencies.

ARM Position

Normal operating position; ELT is armed to activate if an accident is sensed.

TEST-RESET Position

Used to perform self-tests and deactivate the ELT; requires a quick release.

ELT Installation

Securing the ELT in the BB-12 M Mount

Details the procedure for gently installing the ELT into the BB-12M mount and securing the latch.

Securing the ELT in the BB-15 M Mount

Explains how to slide the connector forward and insert the ELT into the BB-15M tray, then secure the latch.

Final Installation

Testing the ELT

Self-Test Procedures

Covers in-bracket and out-of-bracket self-tests to verify ELT functionality.

Power Output and Signal Verification

Verifies 121.5 MHz power, signal output, LED/buzzer indicators, and loop-back function.

G-Switch Operation Verification

Details how to verify G-switch functionality through manual activation tests.

Self-Test Mode and Error Codes

Operating Instructions

Removing ELT from Mounts

Procedures for removing the ELT from both BB-12M and BB-15M mounting systems.

Optimal ELT Placement for Operation

Advise to place the ELT on high ground with antenna vertical for best operation.

Periodic Inspections

Comprehensive Inspection Checklist

Covers inspection of antenna, connectors, battery pack, and performing full functional tests.

Equipment Limitations

Battery Replacement

Battery Installation Procedure

Step-by-step guide on how to safely replace the ELT battery, including precautions.

Repairs

Factory Repair and Shipping

Instructions on contacting the factory for repair, shipping the ELT (without battery), and warranty details.

EBC-406 HM Specifications

Overview

1. Usage Features
2. Maintenance Features

The EBC-406HM is an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) specifically designed for military helicopter installations. It meets the requirements of TSO-C126 in the Automatic Portable (AP) category. This ELT is intended for cabin mounting within the aircraft, easily accessible to the pilot or co-pilot. Its design emphasizes increased survivability through cabin mounting. The device's electronics and activation system are fully encapsulated, with additional protection for the crystal, enhancing resistance to shock and moisture. The EBC-406HM transmits on three emergency frequencies: 406.028 MHz, the civil 121.5 MHz, and the military 243.0 MHz.

A key feature for helicopter use is its unique G-switch system. Unlike single-axis G-switches that might be ineffective in certain helicopter crash scenarios (where a loss of power doesn't always result in a nose-first descent or forward motion), the EBC-406HM incorporates two special G-switches. These switches are designed to sense deceleration forces from all directions, providing 360° spherical detection. This system is identical to those used in previous EBC helicopter ELT models and is engineered not to trigger during a hard landing, ensuring activation only in true emergency situations.

The EBC-406HM system includes an LED on the ELT unit and a buzzer on the mounting bracket/tray. These indicators provide visual and auditory feedback for ELT activation and self-test results. Both the LED and the toggle switch are recessed to protect against damage and inadvertent activation. A recessed D-Sub connector on the ELT's bottom mates with the mounting bracket/tray connector. This bracket/tray connector is wired to the buzzer and includes a G-switch loop-back, which enables the G-switch when the ELT is properly mated to its connector. To prevent accidental activation, the ELT's G-switches are disabled when the unit is removed from its mount. The ELT operates independently, requiring no external power connections, as all indicators and controls are powered by its internal battery pack. Installing the ELT near the pilot eliminates the need for a separate wire harness and Remote Control Monitor.

Usage Features

The EBC-406HM must be installed in the aircraft cabin, within reach of the pilot or co-pilot, for quick access during an emergency. The toggle switch has three positions:

• ON position: Located closest to the antenna connector, this position manually activates the ELT. Upon activation, the ELT will begin transmitting a distress signal on 121.500 MHz and 243.000 MHz. Within 50 seconds, it will also transmit an emergency coded signal on 406.028 MHz.
• ARM position: This is the center position and the normal operating mode for the ELT. When correctly installed in its mount, the ELT is armed and ready to activate automatically if an accident is detected. If the ELT is removed from its mount, the G-switch is disabled, preventing accidental activation from mishandling. However, the ELT can still be manually activated by setting the toggle switch to the "ON" position.
• TEST-RESET position: Located closest to the LED, this position is used for self-testing and deactivating the ELT. To deactivate, hold the toggle switch in this position momentarily for about one second and then quickly release. The ELT will perform a self-test and then deactivate. For self-testing, momentarily move the handle from the center "ARM" position to the "TEST-RESET" position, hold for approximately one second, and then quickly release. The ELT will perform a self-test and then deactivate. It is recommended to monitor the homer signal on a radio tuned to 121.500 MHz during testing.

The automatic activation feature is disabled when the ELT is removed from its mount and is only enabled when the ELT is installed and properly mated to its mounting bracket/tray connector. The mounting bracket/tray connector has a factory-installed loop-back, which is checked during the self-test. A "2 code" indicates a disabled G-switch.

Maintenance Features

Registration of every 406 ELT by the aircraft owner is mandatory after installation, with re-registration required every two years and whenever there are changes to the information provided to JSETS (e.g., telephone numbers, aircraft registration number, change of owner). Each 406 ELT is factory-programmed with a unique 15-Hex ID, located on the front label, which is used by the Rescue Coordination Center for identification during emergencies. This identifier is stored in a DOD/JSETS database to facilitate contact with the owner. Registration is free and can be done online. It is crucial to ensure the 15-Hex ID and all other required information are correctly entered on the registration form. Failure to register or re-register can lead to penalties or delays in search and rescue operations.

Periodic inspections are based on FAA, AC 43.13-1B CHG 1. The FCC mandates that transmitter tests be performed only during the first 5 minutes of each hour and last no longer than 3 audio sweeps of the ELT signal. This test must be performed at least once a year. Inspection steps include:

1. Removing the ELT Tape antenna and visually inspecting all BNC connector pins for proper seating, corrosion, and wear. Special attention should be paid to the coaxial center conductor pin.
2. Removing the ELT from its mount and inspecting D-Sub connectors for corrosion, damage (bent or missing pins), and ensuring mounting hardware stability.
3. Inspecting the battery pack for corrosion and verifying that ELT battery connectors are fully mated. Confirm the battery is an approved GS-46 pack from Emergency Beacon Corporation and check its expiration date.
4. Performing full functional tests as described in Section 6 of the manual.

Battery replacement is required by FAR 91.207(c) when the replacement date marked on the ELT or battery is reached, or after one cumulative hour of transmitter use. The battery replace label is on the ELT's exterior and on the battery itself. The battery pack must be replaced every 5 years or after one hour of cumulative use. Batteries should not be stored outside the ambient temperature range of -40°C to 80°C. Only battery P/N GS-46 is approved; using other batteries will void TSO-C126 compliance.

The battery installation procedure involves:

1. Verifying the ELT is off and removing it from its mount.
2. Unscrewing the four back cover screws and removing the cover.
3. Observing the current battery's orientation to ensure the new battery is installed in the same physical orientation.
4. Removing the plastic U strip spacer.
5. Grasping battery connectors and pulling them apart, avoiding pulling on wires to prevent damage.
6. Disposing of the Class 9 hazardous material battery according to local regulations.
7. Checking for and cleaning any corrosion on the battery, BNC, and D-Sub connectors.
8. Inserting the new battery with the label facing up and removing the "Replace Battery By" label. Tightly mate connectors.
9. Installing the plastic U strip spacer.
10. Installing the "Replace Battery By" label on the side of the ELT.
11. Reinstalling the back cover and antenna.
12. Performing tests as per Section 6 and installing the ELT into its mount.

The replacement battery pack part number is GS-46. The battery pack contains three lithium manganese dioxide cells. Users are cautioned not to disassemble, short circuit, or dispose of the battery pack in or near fire or flame, as lithium is flammable. Lithium battery safety concerns include the possibility of fire, violent venting, and toxic gases.

For repairs, users should contact the factory for advice if experiencing problems. If repairs are necessary, the battery should be removed, and the ELT (without the battery) should be sent to the factory. Emergency Beacon Corporation is the only authorized repair facility. A note describing the problem should be included, and EBC will evaluate the unit and provide a repair estimate. A nominal fee applies for inspection unless the ELT is under warranty. Shipping costs to and from the factory are borne by the customer.

EMERGENCY BEACON CORPORATION EBC-406HM Specifications