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Here you can find many answers regarding the setup, use and testing for our OLAS systems.

OLAS Guardian Installation OLAS Core/Guardian General OLAS Tag OLAS Mobile App OLAS Care/Guardian Range OLAS System Tests

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OLAS Guardian Installation
How quickly will the engine cut off if I fall into the water with a tag on ?
The engine will cut off if the tag is submerged in the water for over 2 seconds.
If I forget my OLAS transmitter or it does not have battery can I still start my engine ?
Yes, you do not need to have a tag connected to be able to start the engine. When power is connected to the Guardian it will beep until a tag is either connected or you switch it off by pressing the button for 4 seconds. The engine can be started when the Guardian is switched off, but it will not be acting as a wireless kill switch.
Can I leave the boat without cutting off the engine ?
Yes, the Guardian can be put into a Paused state by pressing the switch for 2 seconds. This will allow any tags to leave the vessel. All tags will need to be back on the vessel before the Guardian can be un-paused.
If I switch off the tag will this set off the alarm and stop the engine ?
Yes, switching of the tag is the same as breaking the connection. If the tag is set to stop the engine and alarm both will occur. If it is only set to trigger the alarm, then only the alarm will activate.
What is the maximum distance I can go from the Guardian hub without triggering the engine to cut off ?
It is dependent on where the Core or Guardian has been installed and the construction material of the vessel. In normal use you can go up to 50ft from the vessel before the connection is broken. However, if a transmitter is submerged in open water it will disconnect immediately, triggering the alarm or cutting the engine after around 2 seconds.
Can an OLAS transmitter be setup to only alarm without cutting the engine ?

Yes, any OLAS transmitter that is being tracked can be adjusted into 3 states.

1. (Default) Alarm and cut-off. When disconnected it will trigger the alarm and cut the engine (good for the driver)

2. Alarm only. When disconnected it will only trigger the alarm (good for passengers)

3. Paused state. When disconnected nothing will happen, allowing the tag to leave the vessel and return later without causing alarm.

How difficult is the Guardian to install ?
We recommend using a professional installer who should take between 1-2 hours to install the Guardian. This time will vary depending on your engine setup and system layout.
The power cable is too short for my vessel ?
750mm extension power cables are available where longer connections are required.
Can the Guardian be installed whilst keeping the existing kill switch ?
Yes, it is recommended to keep your existing kill switch in its location and use the Guardian as an additional safety device. The Guardian can be installed either in parallel or in series to your existing switch dependent on your engine’s configuration.
I do not have a kill switch; can the Guardian still be installed ?
Yes, but it is highly recommended that a professional marine electrician is used. Additional purchases may be required from the engine manufacturer.
Where should the Guardian hub be installed ?

We recommend installing the Guardian hub within the center console allowing easy access for connecting the wires. It also reduces the need for drilling holes into the center console.

We advise the Guardian switch to be in a visible location to ensure all illuminated indications can be seen.

If the center console is metal, it may require an Extender, or the Guardian hub will need to be fixed externally.

Do I have to drill a hole to fit the Guardian switch ?
Yes, a 21mm hole needs to be drilled where the switch is to be located. Before drilling the hole ensure the switch cable can reach the Guardian hub.
I have a metal boat; will the Guardian still work ?
If the center console is metal, it may require an Extender, or the Guardian hub will need to be fixed externally.
I have an outboard engine with a kill switch but no center console, can the Guardian be installed ?
If you have a stable 12V power supply generated from your engine or an external 12V battery you should be able to connect the Guardian to your existing kill switch. This is dependent on your engine make, always check with a professional marine electrician.
How should I maintain the Guardian ?
The Guardian should be tested regularly to ensure it is working correctly. This can be done by setting the system up as normal and submerging the tag below at least 4 inches of open water. If the OLAS tag has become wet rinse in fresh water and dry. Always store in a cool, dry location.
Can the Guardian be installed if I run multiple engines ?

Yes, on most boats an existing mechanical kill switch will already be connected to the engines and the Guardian switch wires can be connected as normal to the 2 existing wires leading to the mechanical kill switch. Often a splitter is used to consolidate the multiple engine signal wires into 2 wires. This splitter should not be removed as it may contain diodes. The Guardian should be connected after the splitter has harnessed the multiple engines into the 2 wires. Only connect the Guardian to the 2 wires that connect to the mechanical kill switch.

Where more than 2 wires exit the rear of the existing kill switch, primarily on Yamaha multiple engine configurations a multi-pole system and a diode splitter is required to connect the multiple sets of wires into 1 set of wires that can be connected to the Guardian. Contact your engines local representative for further information.

If there is no existing kill switch, we advise that the correct splitters, wires and kill switch setup advised by the engine manufacturer is first setup. Contact your engines local representative for further information.

How should I connect the power and signal wires ?

First ensure that the power supply is switched OFF. Then follow the user guide for the correct connection of power and signal wires.

All wire connections should use waterproof connectors specifically designed for the marine environment. The Guardian is supplied with marine grade butt splices which will require crimping and heat to ensure a waterproof secure connection, similar marine connectors can also be used. A minimum 20 AWG thickness wire should be used for all connections.

Should I connect the power wires directly to the 12V battery ?
The Guardian power wires should always be connected after the batteries isolator switch to ensure it does not continue to draw power when the system is not in use. It is also advised that a 1-3 Amp fuse is input after the battery power switch, before connecting to the positive power wire on the Guardian.

OLAS Core/Guardian General
If I am not using the OLAS Core or Guardian can I still use the OLAS mobile app ?
Yes, the OLAS mobile app can be used as a portable MOB alarm and rescue aid. 6 OLAS transmitters can be tracked with a vessel range of up to 40ft.
Can the Core or Guardian operate without the mobile app?

Yes, the Core and Guardian can setup, monitor and alert without requiring the OLAS mobile application. Through light indication on the switch and sound signals from the hub, the user can easily check the number of OLAS transmitters being tracked and the state of the device i.e. scanning, tracking, paused or alarming.

The OLAS mobile app is only required as an additional tool to aid in setup and monitoring the OLAS system. The OLAS app also acts as an extra alarm and includes rescue screens to aid in MOB rescue including scripted Mayday call and Solo mode, an automated text message for use whilst on your own, within cellular range (minimum 2G or Wi-Fi required).

What is the difference between the Core and the Guardian ?

The Core is a portable MOB alarm system which can be plugged into any 5V USB power socket. It has an emergency light and internal alert to indicate a MOB.

The Guardian is a hard-wired solution which can operate from 10-24V. The Guardian can be wired into a vessels existing kill switch, stopping the engine in a MOB situation. The same wiring solution could also be used to activate an external MOB alarm system. The Guardian has an emergency light and internal alert sound to indicate a MOB.

When an OLAS transmitter is switched on, will it automatically be tracked by the OLAS system? ?
No, if using the OLAS app, Core or Guardian action is required to start tracking the OLAS transmitter. Check the user guide for further instructions.
How should I maintain the Core ?

Ensure the Core remains clean and dry. If it becomes wet, clean with fresh water, avoiding the charge port and dry ensuring no water is left in or around the charge port or buzzer.

Keep the Core out of direct sunlight.

OLAS Tag
How do I switch the OLAS tag OFF ?
Press and hold the button for 4 seconds until a red flash is seen opposite to the button. If in bright sun light you may need to shield the tag to see the red light.
Can I switch the OLAS tag OFF from the OLAS app ?
NO this is not possible. Within the OLAS app you can pause the tag which means that the system will not react if the tag is switched off or goes out of range, however the tag continues to transmit when it is in pause mode within the OLAS app.
Should I turn the OLAS tag off when not in use ?
We recommend that if your OLAS tag will not be used for an extended period i.e. longer than 1 week, you should switch it off between uses.
How can I check the battery status of the OLAS tag ?
The OLAS app will indicate the battery status of the OLAS tag when on the home screen.
Can I change the battery in the OLAS tag ?

Yes, the OLAS tag has a user replaceable battery CR2477. We recommend using a Panasonic version which is readily available online.

The below video indicates how to change the battery in an OLAS tag.

https://youtu.be/6v3DqLDf2zU

Can I swim with the OLAS tag ?
Yes, the OLAS tag is waterproof down to 2 metres. However, it is not advised to swim below the waterline whilst wearing an OLAS tag.
Will the OLAS tag fit children ?
The OLAS tag is supplied with a silicone wrist strap which has multiple fitting holes, comfortably fitting a circumference of 130mm up to 220mm. The Strap can also be removed and a different strap with a width below 23mm can be used. The tag can be attached to a lanyard or placed in an item of clothing.
Is the OLAS app, Core or Guardian alarm water activated ?
No, the alarm is activated when the OLAS tag connection signal is blocked. In a MOB situation the signal is blocked by submerging the OLAS tag into water and/or by going out of range.
How can I check if the OLAS tag is ON or OFF? ?

The easiest way is to check using the OLAS app. If the tag does not appear on the home screen when in phone tracking mode, then it is switched off.

Without using the OLAS app, you can press and hold the button. The tag will then either switch ON or OFF letting you know its previous and current status.

How many tags can I track only using the mobile app ?
6 tags can be tracked. If more than 6 tags are switched on and within range of the OLAS app false alarms may occur.
How many tags can I track using the Core or Guardian ?
Both the Core and the Guardian can track upto 15 OLAS tags at one time.
Can I use the OLAS tag with any OLAS receivers ?
Yes, the OLAS tag is compatible with any OLAS receiver. They can be easily between systems.
Can the OLAS tag be transferred between OLAS receivers ?
Yes, all OLAS tags can easily be used with a Core, Guardian or just the OLAS app without requiring any specific pairing.
The alarm is not triggered when I put the OLAS transmitter into a bucket of water ?
The OLAS transmitter needs to be submerged by up to 4 inches in open water. If submerged in a bucket the wireless signal can transmit out of the side and bottom of the bucket.
If I switch the OLAS tag off will this trigger the alarm ?
Yes, switching the OLAS tag off is the same as disconnecting the OLAS tag by falling overboard or submerging it in open water. We recommend testing the OLAS system regularly.

OLAS Mobile App
How many OLAS transmitters can be tracked directly by the OLAS app ?

Up to 6 OLAS transmitters can be tracked directly from the mobile phone/tablet if using the OLAS app.

If the OLAS app is connected to a Core or Guardian it can display upto 15 OLAS transmitters.

Can OLAS transmitters be tracked by multiple phones operating the OLAS app ?
Yes, multiple mobile devices can operate the OLAS app and track the same OLAS transmitters. If tracking the OLAS transmitters via the Core or Guardian only 1 mobile device can be used.
Can the mobile device be below deck and the OLAS transmitters on deck ?
Yes, but we always advise to check connection before leaving the dock to operate within your systems boundaries.
Do I need phone signal for the OLAS app to work ?

No, the mobile app tracks OLAS transmitters using Bluetooth, which needs to be switched on. The mobile app also requires a GPS connection to use the GPS record and track elements from the MOB rescue screens.

If using the SOLO mode automated text message, then a minimum of 2G is required to send the message.

Are OLAS transmitters waterproof ?
Yes, the OLAS tag and the OLAS Float-On are waterproof.
If I am not using the OLAS Core or Guardian can I still use the OLAS mobile app ?
Yes, the OLAS mobile app can be used as a portable MOB alarm and rescue aid. 6 OLAS transmitters can be tracked with a vessel range of up to 40ft.
What is the difference between the device selections on the OLAS app ?

The phone icon – this allows direct tracking of OLAS transmitters for the ultimate portable MOB alarm system.

The Core – this allows connection to the Core allowing the user to manage the OLAS system, OLAS transmitter tracking, alert settings and acting as an additional alarm.

The Guardian - this allows connection to the Guardian allowing the user to manage the OLAS system, OLAS transmitter tracking, alert settings and acting as an additional alarm.

Can the Core or Guardian operate without the OLAS app ?

Yes, the Core and Guardian can setup, monitor and alert without requiring the OLAS app. Through light indication on the switch and sound signals from the hub, the user can easily check the number of OLAS transmitters being tracked and the state of the system i.e. scanning, tracking, paused or alarming.

The OLAS mobile app is only required as an additional tool to aid in setup and monitoring the OLAS system.The OLAS app also acts as an extra alarm and includes rescue screens to aid in MOB rescue including a scripted Mayday call and Solo mode, an automated text message for use whilst on your own (minimum 2G or Wi-Fi required).

What is the minimum iOS version required for the OLAS app ?

iOS 11 is the minimum operating system which will allow the OLAS app to run.

iPhone 5 will not allow the OLAS app to download.

iPhone 5S and iPhone 5SE and new versions of iPhone with iOS 11 operating system and above will allow the OLAS app to be downloaded.

Can the OLAS app be used on iPads ?
The OLAS app can be used in landscape and portrait on iPads with the operating system iOS 11 and above.
What is the minimum operating system that can be used on Android devices ?
Any Android device that can run 5.1 and above can download and run the OLAS mobile application. Tracking distance and reliability can vary depending on the Android devices hardware.
Troubleshooting

Problem: I keep on getting false alarms when the OLAS transmitters have not left the vessel.

Cause: False alarms occur due to a blocked connection between the OLAS mobile phone and the OLAS transmitter. Water, carbon or metal can easily block the connection. Water in the human body can also block the connection.

Solution: Attached the transmitter to crew in a location which is always visible. If false alerts continue, try adjusting the alert time in Alert settings upto 15 or 30 seconds. However, this will delay the time in which you are alerted of the incident.

For optimum performance follow these guidelines:

1. Do not connect other Bluetooth devices whilst using the app
2. Ensure the OLAS app is at least 1 meter from other RF transmitting devices
3. Select ‘Always’ for location access in your App settings
4. Allow notifications
5. Only 8 OLAS transmitters should be on

Problem: I have switched on the OLAS transmitter, but it does not show up on the OLAS app?

Cause: either the OLAS transmitter has a flat battery or the connection is blocked form your mobile device.

Solution: Try switching the OLAS transmitter ON/OFF/ON several times to check that the indication light is operating. If there is no indication light the battery will need to be changed (OLAS tag) or charged (OLAS Float-On).

If the OLAS transmitter is switched on and transmitting i.e. all indication lights have been seen then the mobile device need to be check to ensure Bluetooth and location setting are activated for the OLAS app.

OLAS Core/Guardian Range
My boat is longer than 50ft, can I still use the Core or Guardian ?
Yes, but it is likely you will need to add an OLAS Extender to the system which will allow use on vessels up to 80ft.
What is the maximum distance I can go from the Core or Guardian without triggering the alarm? ?
The distance can vary depending on where the Core or Guardian is installed and the material of the vessel. If the Core or Guardian is located centrally in a vessel effective coverage of a vessel up to 50ft can be achieved. If a transmitter is submerged in open water it will disconnect immediately even if within the 50ft range.
Can an OLAS transmitter leave the vessel without triggering an alarm ?
Yes, but the OLAS system will either need to be in Pause or the individual tag will need to be in a paused state. To pause tracking of individual OLAS transmitters the OLAS app should be used. To pause the whole OLAS system either the OLAS app or the Core / Guardian hub can be used.
When the OLAS system is paused, if an OLAS tag leaves the vessel and does not return can the OLAS system re-start tracking ?

It is not possible for OLAS to restart tracking until all OLAS transmitters are back in range. If you try to restart tracking a triple beep sounds indication will occur from the hub.

If the OLAS transmitter will not return the OLAS system need to be restarted. All remining transmitters will need to be brought back within 2 meters of the Core or Guardian hub within the 30 second start up.

What should I do when an OLAS transmitter has set off the alarm and then been recovered back to the vessel ?
Bring the OLAS transmitter back within 2 metres of the Core or Guardian hub. If the Core or Guardian hub is still alarming press the button once to pause the alarm and then press the button again to restart tracking.
If the Tag wearer has been retrieved from a MOB situation, is the Tag automatically connected again when they are back aboard ?

(Short Answer) No – the OLAS transmitter needs to be brought back within 2 metres of the hub, then press the hubs switch once to start the system tracking again.

(Long answer) - After a MOB alert the user needs to press the hubs switch once to pause the alarm. - The Guardian is in now in a paused state. This allows the vessel to be operational to perform a rescue. - Whilst the Guardian is in the paused state it sounds an alert every 6 seconds to clearly indicate it is not tracking. - The Guardian cannot resume the original tracking until the missing tag is on the vessel - Once the MOB is back on the vessel, bring it within 2 metres of the hub and press the switch once. The switch will flash for 10 seconds before returning to solid green.

How can I check to see how many OLAS transmitters are being tracked ?
You can check in 2 ways: 1. Press the switch on the hub once, it will then indicate the number of tracked OLAS transmitters with a sounds and light signal. 2. OLAS the OLAS mobile app and connect directly.

OLAS System Tests
The alarm is not triggered when I put the OLAS transmitter into a bucket of water ?
The OLAS transmitter needs to be submerged by up to 4 inches in open water. If submerged in a bucket the wireless signal can transmit out of the side and bottom of the bucket.
If I switch the OLAS tag off will this trigger the alarm? ?
Yes, switching the OLAS tag off is the same as disconnecting the OLAS tag by falling overboard or submerging it in open water. We recommend testing the OLAS system regularly.

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