NASA SX 35 DSC - Manual (Page 11)

SX 35 DSC 9
Calling Another Vessel
Channel 16 may be used to establish initial contact with another vessel.
However, its most important use is for voice emergency messages. Chan-
nel 16 must be monitored at all times except when engaged in actual com-
munication on another channel. Channel 16 is monitored by international
search and rescue (SAR) authorities, National Coast Guards and by other
vessels. Use of Channel 16 for calling or hailing must be limited to initial
contact only. Calling should not exceed 30 seconds and may be repeated 3
times at 2 minute intervals.
Prior to making contact with another vessel, determine which channel will
be used for continued communication after the initial contact. Channels 68
and 72 (see Channel Assignment tables) are two channels available for non-
commercial (recreational) communication. Monitor the desired channel for
traffic and, when clear, switch to Channel 16 to make initial contact.
Listen for traffic on the Calling Channel (16). If clear, press the Push To Talk
(
PTT ) button on the microphone. Speak the name of the vessel you are
calling followed by “this is” and the name of your vessel and your call sign.
Release the
PTT and listen for a reply. When the other vessel returns your
call, acknowledge the call with “go to”, the number of the new channel and
“over”. Switch to the new channel and listen for traffic. If necessary, wait
for traffic to clear, and then call the other vessel. As communication pro-
ceeds, end each transmission with “over”. When communication with the
other vessel is completed, end the last transmission with your call sign and
the word “out”. It is not necessary to end each transmission with your call
sign, just give your call sign at the beginning and end of each contact.
Remember to switch to Channel 16 when not actively communicating on
another channel.
Telephone Calls
You may use your SX 35 DSC transceiver to make telephone calls to per-
sons on shore. To do so requires the services of marine operators who oper-
ate on designated Public Correspondence channels. There are several chan-
nels designated for this type of traffic and to determine the channel being
used in your area, ask someone with local knowledge, contact a Harbor
Master or other marine authority.