Question 35E5

A 406 MHz EPIRB transmits a digital burst signal containing a unique coded identification number, often called a Hexadecimal ID (Hex ID). This Hex ID is specific to the beacon and is registered with an international authority (like NOAA in the U.S.). When the alert is received by satellite, this Hex ID is decoded, and rescue coordination centers use it to retrieve pre-registered information from a database, such as the vessel's name, owner contact details, and emergency contacts. While modern, GPS-enabled EPIRBs can also embed position data within this coded message, the fundamental and universally transmitted piece of information in the 406 MHz alert itself is the unique Hex ID. Other details like vessel name, MMSI, or nature of distress are derived from the registration database linked to that unique ID, not primarily transmitted directly in the initial 406 MHz burst.