Garmin GPSMAP 2006C - Manual (Page 74)

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Reference
Main Menu: DSC Tab
Anytime a vessel receives a DSC call, they can store that location and quickly navigate to that position
using a Go To. This makes DSC a time saver, especially in an emergency situation. In order to use DSC,
users must first register their VHF radio with the FCC and receive a Maritime Mobile Service Identity
(MMSI) number.
What is a Maritime mobile service identity (MMSI)?
Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) basically allows a VHF radio to act like a phone. In order
to make a “call” on a phone, you first need a phone number to dial. The 9-digit MMSI number acts like
a phone number when used in a Position Report and as a unique identifier to the Coast Guard when used
in an emergency Distress Call. In order to to obtain a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number,
users must register their VHF radio with the FCC (Form 605). Garmin does not supply this number!
Information to obtain this number can be found below.
How ARE MMSI assignments obtained?
Non-commercial users (e.g. recreational users who remain in domestic waters and only carry VHF,
EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons), and Radar) are not required to have a FCC ship
station license. The FCC and Coast Guard have authorized some second and third party vendors to assign
MMSI numbers. This service is limited to registering recreational vessels only. To receive information
on how to obtain a recreational MMSI number please contact: http://www.uscg.mil/rescue21/links/
mmsi.htm or http://wireless.fcc.gov/marine/.
U.S Non-Federal User: Commercial users, or those who travel outside the U.S. or Canada, must
apply for a ship station license or an amendment to a ship station license. To find out if you require a
Ship Station license contact: http://wireless.fcc.gov/marine/fctsht14.html. If your vessel requires licens-
ing by the FCC you will obtain a MMSI during the application/licensing process when you file FCC Forms
159 and 605.
U.S. Federal User: Federal users can obtain MMSI assignments from their agency radio spectrum
management office. These procedures are currently under review by the NTIA (National Telecommunica-
tions and Information Administration).
Outside the U.S.: Users can obtain an MMSI assignment from their telecommunications authority or
ship registry, often by obtaining or amending their ship station license.