This page contains critical safety information that must be read before operating the Aegis-Beacon device. Failure to follow these guidelines may result in equipment damage, legal issues, or personal harm.

Radio Frequency Safety

Power Output Limits

Mode	TX Power	Duty Cycle	Duration
Beacon	+17 dBm (50 mW)	10%	Indefinite
Search	Rx only	N/A	Indefinite
Config	N/A (WiFi)	N/A	Until timeout
Emergency	+22 dBm (160 mW)	100%	Until battery depleted

Warning

Continuous transmission at +22 dBm (Emergency mode) will rapidly deplete the battery and may cause the PA amplifier to overheat. Limit Emergency mode to genuine rescue situations.

Antenna Safety

Never transmit without a properly connected antenna. Transmitting without a load can damage the SX1262 transceiver permanently.
Keep the antenna away from your face and body during transmission.
Do not modify or cut the antenna length without recalculating the matching network.

Important

The antenna is tuned for the 410-525 MHz band. Using it on other frequencies will result in poor performance and potentially damage the transmitter.

Electrical Safety

Battery Handling

The Aegis-Beacon uses a single 18650 lithium-ion cell (3.7V nominal).

Never short-circuit the battery.
Never charge the battery unattended.
Never use a damaged or swollen battery.
Use only the TP4056 charging board included in the BOM for charging.
Charge in a fireproof location away from flammable materials.

Warning

Lithium-ion batteries can cause fires if punctured, overcharged, or short-circuited. Always use proper battery holders and the included TP4056 charger board.

Soldering Safety

When assembling the device:

Work in a well-ventilated area.
Use lead-free solder (Sn96.5/Ag3.0/Cu0.5 recommended).
Wear safety glasses when soldering.
Keep the soldering iron in its stand when not in use.
Allow joints to cool before touching.

Environmental Limits

Parameter	Safe Range	Notes
Operating Temperature	-20 to +60 C	Derate TX power above 45C
Storage Temperature	-40 to +85 C	Remove battery for long-term storage
Humidity	0-90% RH	Non-condensing
Altitude	Up to 5000m	No derating required

Tip

In extreme cold (below -10C), battery capacity drops significantly. Pre-warm the device against your body before activation in winter conditions.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Radio Operation

Verify that operation in the 410-525 MHz band is permitted in your jurisdiction before transmitting.
Many countries allow low-power emergency beacons, but specific rules vary.
PMR446-compliant frequencies (446.0-446.2 MHz) are generally available in the EU without a license.

Emergency Use Only

The Aegis-Beacon is designed as a supplementary emergency device. It is not a replacement for:

Professional rescue equipment
Satellite communicators (InReach, SPOT, etc.)
Calling emergency services (112, 911, etc.)

Note

In a life-threatening emergency, always contact professional rescue services first if any means is available. Use Aegis-Beacon to supplement, not replace, professional rescue channels.

Storage and Transport

Remove the battery if storing the device for more than 30 days.
Store in a dry, temperature-stable environment.
When transporting by air, remove the battery and carry it in hand luggage (IATA regulations for lithium batteries).
Keep the device in an anti-static bag when not in use.