ACR Survival Battery, Lithium (LiFeO2), GMDSS SR203

Emergency Battery for the SR203

The ACR 1061 is the primary battery used to provide GMDSS emergency capability to the ACR SR203 handheld survival radio. It attaches directly to the radio and remains reserved for distress and survival-craft communication rather than routine onboard use.

When the SR203 is activated with its emergency battery, the radio automatically starts on VHF Channel 16 so the operator can begin distress communication without navigating through additional settings.

Break-Off Activation Tab

A protective break-off tab prevents the emergency battery from being used unintentionally while the radio is stored. Breaking the tab enables normal radio operation and provides a clear visual indication that the battery has been activated.

A battery with a broken or missing tab should not be returned to emergency storage without inspection and replacement as required.

Extended GMDSS Operation

The current ACR SR203 specification states that the radio provides more than 16 hours of battery life. This performance is based on the standard GMDSS operating cycle of transmitting, receiving, and standby operation rather than continuous transmission.

Some older dealer listings state eight hours of continuous GMDSS service. For current catalog copy, the manufacturer’s more recent specification of over 16 hours is the better reference.

Primary Lithium Construction

The battery uses non-rechargeable lithium iron disulfide cells, commonly abbreviated LiFeS₂. Older product titles may describe the chemistry as “LiFeO₂,” but the current product safety documentation identifies lithium iron disulfide chemistry.

The battery must not be placed in a charger, opened, punctured, crushed, short-circuited, or exposed to fire. Used and expired packs should be handled according to applicable lithium-battery transport and disposal regulations.

Separate Batteries for Routine Use

The ACR 1061 is intended to remain available for emergencies. Routine radio operation and training should be completed with the rechargeable ACR 1062 RB5V battery, while the compatible alkaline test battery can be used for specified inspections and functional checks.

Using the appropriate routine-use battery helps preserve the sealed emergency pack and its available operating life.