Raymarine Ray215e - Manual (Page 51)

3-28 Operation with Minimum Function Handset
3.5.18.5 Distress Call
A Distress Call allows you to send out a digital “packet” of data at high
power that includes your position, time, and MMSI number. All ships and
stations outfitted with the correct type of DSC equipment will be able to
pinpoint your position and either relay the information or respond directly.
Using the Distress key overrides all other functions.
Note: DSC functions are enabled only when an optional Full Function
Handset has been installed. If no Second Station Full Function Handset
is attached, the Distress key on the Minimum Function Handset will not
operate.
Sending a Distress Call
1. On the back of the handset, lift the door marked DISTRESS.
2. Press and hold the red Distress key for 5 seconds. After 1 second, the
LCD displays a countdown from four to zero, beeping every second.
3. When the countdown has completed, the radio enters the DSC mode
and sends the digital information at high power. Once transmitted, the
radio monitors channel 70 for a Distress acknowledge but also monitors
channel 16 for emergency traffic.
Note: When a Distress Call is sent, the unit emits a VERY LOUD distress
alarm tone. To mute the alarm without interrupting the Distress Call,
press the DSC/PRI key on the RAY215E base station. The radio will remain
in DSC mode.
4. The Distress Call is automatically re-transmitted every 3.5 to 4 minutes
as long as you remain in the DSC mode. The radio continues to transmit
until either an acknowledge is received or the DSC mode is manually
exited by pressing the 16 key. The ACK indicator flashes, indicating
the radio is monitoring for an acknowledge.
5. If a receiving station has Distress acknowledge capability and sends
an acknowledge to you, the DSC tone sounds and the ACK indicator
appears solid for 1 second. Next, the radio exits the DSC mode and
switches to channel 16 for voice communications.