Audible Beacon Device
Overview:
The Audible Beacon Device provides a loud locator tone for the crossing pedestrian from an auxiliary speaker on or near the pedestrian signal head at the far end of the crosswalk during the pedestrian change interval. The beacon is aimed toward the end of the first third of the crosswalk enabling locator tones to be heard from all sections of the crosswalk. Pedestrians can activate the Audible Beacon Device by placing a call with the extended press feature (holding the button down for one second or longer) at an accessible Pedestrian Signal. The device is located at the end of the crosswalk (destination point), and is mounted at 7-10 feet high per the MUTCD NPA, where it can broadcast tones, up to 100 dBA to the final two-thirds of the crosswalk, during the pedestrian change interval.
About:
The Audible Beacon Device comprises a speaker mounted on the pedestrian signal head or a pan-tilt bracket fixed to a pole, allowing you to position it at your preferred height of 7-10 feet on the side of the intersection that serves as the destination for crosswalk users. This is especially crucial for aiding visually impaired individuals when crossing intersections, as the speaker can emit significantly louder volumes than traditional APS systems, thereby expanding safety throughout the final two-thirds of the intersection.
During the pedestrian clearance interval, typically near the end of the first line of the crossing, users hear an audible destination beacon tone emanating from a speaker positioned at the destination end of the crosswalk. This distinctive and percussive tone enables pedestrians with visual disabilities to navigate toward the destination beacon, adjusting their course to remain within the crosswalk until they reach the final endpoint at the conclusion of the crosswalk.
