Standard Horizon HX-471S User Manual
Page 33
HX471S
Page 31
7.8 OPERATING ON USA CHANNEL 67
USA Channel 67 is used for navigational bridge-to-bridge traffic between
ships. This channel has been allocated for temporary high power transmis-
sion if communication is not able to be established on one watt.
Select Channel 67, then press the [H/L] key to set the transmitter output to
either High or Medium power. When the PTT switch is released, the trans-
ceiver will revert to low power.
7.9 DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING
7.9.1 GENERAL
7.9.1.1 Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
Digital Selective Calling is a semi-automated method of establishing a radio
call; it has been designated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO)
as an international standard for establishing VHF, MF and HF radio calls. It
had also been designated as part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety
System (GMDSS). It is planned that DSC will eventually replace aural watches
on distress frequencies and will be used to announce routine and urgent
maritime safety information broadcasts.
The HX471S has a DSC Distress feature that allows mariners to instantly
transmit a VHF Marine distress call with GPS position (when connected to
the transceiver) to the US Coast Guard and other vessels within range of
the transmission.
7.9.1.2 Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI)
What is an MMSI?
An MMSI is a nine digit number used on Marine Transceivers capable of
using Digital Selective Calling (DSC). This number is used by the HX471S
when a Marine DSC Distress call is transmitted. This number is registered
with the USCG. Refer to section 13 “MENU (“SET”) MODE”(MMSI REG).
NOTE: An MMSI must be programmed into the HX471S before the DSC
Distress function will operate. If you have a fixed mounted DSC VHF and
already have a MMSI, this MMSI should be programmed into the HX471S.
How can I obtain a MMSI assignment?
Currently there are two companies that offer MMSI numbers:
¦ Boat US at (800) 563-1539 or visit the web site http://www.boatus.com/mmsi/.
¦ Seatow at (631) 765-3660 or visit the web site http://www.seatow.com/
mmsiinfo.htm