What is this - found in Fiji.

[RTFiji]

Hi, only new to this forum but found this on a beach on a remote island in Fiji. Fibreglass housing, about 50cm across, solar cells inside and looks like only way in is unscrewing the top but I can't get it off. Searched the serial number but no luck and Cape Ferrat seems to be in France. Any ideas?

[atoll]

its a long line transponder for relocating fishing lines,cap ferat is probably the name of the fishing boat,(rather than a location,which is in the south of france nr nice in the med)

[RTFiji]

Thanks mate. Am I correct in assuming I unscrew the lid? I would like to take it home via air but would like to remove the batteries for carry-on luggage.

[atoll]

Originally Posted by RTFiji

Thanks mate. Am I correct in assuming I unscrew the lid? I would like to take it home via air but would like to remove the batteries for carry-on luggage.

i would think so as the units need to be switched on and off,batteries are probably rechargable ni-cads

you probably also don't want it transmitting a signal on the plane!

edit,if the see through lid is flexible,allowing you to press the buttons to activate it may be factory sealed

[RTFiji]

Thanks atoll. I'll have another go at unscrewing the lid by taping a long stick across the top with gaffer tape. Hopefully I can get some extra leverage and crack the seal on the thread, or it may just pop off. Should make for an interesting item hanging up under the rear patio.

[RTFiji]

And quick search shows Cape Ferrat as US owned Tuna purse seiner. Thanks again atoll.

[atoll]

Originally Posted by RTFiji

Thanks atoll. I'll have another go at unscrewing the lid by taping a long stick across the top with gaffer tape. Hopefully I can get some extra leverage and crack the seal on the thread, or it may just pop off. Should make for an interesting item hanging up under the rear patio.

i edited my last post,on reflection.

if the see through lid is flexible allowing the user to press the on/off button to activate the unit,it may be factory sealed.

it probably will have a flashing led to indicate it is transmitting.

[RTFiji]

Good suggestion, gave it a go, but not flexible. May be magnetic switch but haven't got a magnet handy. I'll be in Port Lautoka tomorrow and will pick up a small strong fridge magnet and see what happens.

[atoll]

Originally Posted by RTFiji

Good suggestion, gave it a go, but not flexible. May be magnetic switch but haven't got a magnet handy. I'll be in Port Lautoka tomorrow and will pick up a small strong fridge magnet and see what happens.

if it starts ticking........RUN

[RTFiji]

I'll let you know, but if I don't reply........ I was too slow. Thanks and "it's good night from me, and good night from him" - The two Ronnies.

[ArmyDaveNY]

Originally Posted by RTFiji

I'll let you know, but if I don't reply........ I was too slow. Thanks and "it's good night from me, and good night from him" - The two Ronnies.

There is a comedy crew I haven't heard of in a while. Quite funny they were. Thanks for reminding me of them.

On a different note, it might be quite interesting to see if it was putting out any sort of a signal, and what the tracking shows.

[taxwizz]

If there is a signal the owners may be coming after you.
You better hide.

[RTFiji]

Really really bad weather. Might not get there today but will let you all know when I make some progress.

[kudukuguam]

These things are quite expensive. I suspect there would be a reward for it's return.

[Maka]

Facinating