Q: Do I need to drill new holes to install the SM-3 Marker Light? A: No modifications are required. The ACR SM-3 is engineered with the same mounting footprint as the older SM-2 series. You can swap the units instantly, gaining modern LED reliability and MED approval while keeping your original installation setup intact.
Q: How do I turn the light on and off? A: The SM-3 features an automatic, fail-safe Gravity Switch. There are no external switches to corrode or break. To activate the strobe, just turn the light upright (bulb up). To deactivate it, turn the light upside down (bulb down).
Q: What type of batteries does the SM-3 require? A: The unit is powered by two (2) AA L91 Lithium batteries. Please note that batteries are not included in the box; this allows the unit to be shipped without hazardous material (Hazmat) restrictions.
Q: How many marker lights am I required to carry on board? A: Maritime safety codes require that half (50%) of the lifebuoys on your deck be equipped with a self-igniting marker light. Depending on your specific vessel length classification, this generally means you will need between 4 and 15 lights to remain compliant.
Q: What is the lifespan of the SM-3 unit? A: The SM-3 allows for user battery replacement, so you do not need to discard it after a single use. However, for regulatory purposes (MED/SOLAS), the device has a 5-year expiration date and the entire unit should be replaced every 5 years to ensure guaranteed performance.
Q: Is the SM-3 tough enough for high drops? A: Yes. While most lights are only tested to the minimum 30-meter SOLAS standard, the ACR SM-3 is verified to withstand a drop of 76 meters (249 feet) into the water. This extreme durability makes it the preferred choice for offshore drilling rigs and large commercial ships.
Q: How long will the battery last in cold water? A: The SM-3 is designed for all climates. It exceeds SOLAS standards by operating for over 24 hours in freezing temperatures (-1°C / 30°F) and over 40 hours in warm conditions (30°C / 86°F). The 3-candela LED strobe remains visible for up to 2 miles throughout this runtime.
Q: Is the bracket resistant to UV damage? A: Yes, both the light and its included mounting bracket are constructed from UV-resistant polycarbonate. This material is specifically chosen to withstand years of direct sunlight and marine salt environments without cracking or fading.
