I’ve had the alarms for a few weeks now, so thought I’d get the receiver as well…
After recently reviewing the revolutionary ACE i-3 bite alarm system, I thought it only fair to add my thoughts on the remote receiver unit that complements the alarms. Again, designated ‘i-3’, the receiver comes in the same smartly packaged black box with the striking ACE logo subtly embossed in silver; – very smart!
Supplied with a convenient stand, the receiver unit has the option of replacing the standard battery cover with a natty belt clip which also allows the receiver to clip directly onto a two piece bivvy magnet; again, these are all supplied so no more expense! The i-3 receiver is palm sized, so will easily fit in a coat pocket or tuck under your pillow without getting in the way.
Constructed of high grade impact resistant plastic, the unit has a comforting weighty feel indicating that, much like the individual alarms, it’s full of ‘stuff’ that matters. The accessories are also of extremely good quality and will withstand whatever you put them through on the bank.
Turning the receiver on is achieved by flicking the switch across, then the unit goes through a ‘self check’ series of LED lights to ensure sufficient battery power and all circuitry works. After the start up, it’s ready to ‘pair’.
It’s the first remote receiver I’ve used in years, so I was a little apprehensive about ‘pairing’ the system together. Although the instructions are very clear, I had to attempt it a couple of times before I got the hang of it, and quickly realised that the remote picks up the alarms straight away if the alarm is triggered to send the signal to the receiver rather than just wait for it to transmit. Perhaps that is down to me skimming over the instructions instead of reading them! (Kid with new toy?). Actually linking the alarms into the system then becomes simple; opening the battery cover gives access to the probe tuning tool clipped under the back plate which is used to activate the sequence of connection. With the alarm switched ON – press the ‘connect’ button at the rear of the receiver unit, the LED on the front flashes rapidly for 20 seconds; during this time simply activate the alarm you wish to pair to that receiver channel by running a line over it. Once paired, the receiver will adopt the colour set on your alarm. To add a second alarm, push the ‘connect’ button twice and so on for a third or even fourth alarm. Once finished, set the alarm head to ‘range test’ and the receiver will display an LED colour according to the strength of signal depending on the distance you are from your rods.
In addition to the alarm tone and LED notification, the i-3 can be set to silent vibrate to maintain your exclusivity if you are an angler who likes to maintain some secrecy and not let others know you are doing well!
In the event of a low battery, the LED on the front of the i-3 unit will all flash a blue indicator; once this happens, you are advised to change the battery immediately to maintain optimum performance. If an alarm develops a low battery, then the corresponding colour LED will flash on the receiver to warn you. The system uses the same ‘9v square battery’ throughout, so only the minimum number of replacements need be carried.
Overall, I think it hits the mark in every aspect of remote receivers. It seems well made, does what it is designed for and looks good. ACE continue to increase their portfolio of carpy products, and the new i-3 system looks set to put pressure on other established bite alarm manufacturers to try and match the arrival of ACE into this area of the market.
Clint Walker, 2010
