NASA SX 35 DSC - Manual (Page 34)

32 SX 35 DSC
DSC OPERATION
The Digital Selective Calling (DSC) functions of your SX 35 DSC transceiver
add convenience and safety to your VHF communication capability. DSC
allows you to contact other DSC equipped vessels and shore stations by
selecting their names from your personal call directory, choosing a call type,
and pressing a key. In an emergency, pressing one button will send your
vessel ID and current position to search and rescue (SAR) authorities and
other DSC equipped vessels. Distress calls are covered first. Then, normal
calling procedures are described.
Position reporting requires connection to an operating GPS navigation re-
ceiver or manually entered Lat/Lon coordinates. If data from your GPS is
lost, 3 quick error beeps are sounded and the following warning screen ap-
pears in the display after 23.5 hours.
INT 16 PRI. HI
--J
a n88:88
99°99.999
999°99.999
Set Manual Lat/Lon
This warning screen reminds you to manually enter Lat/Lon coordinates.
The old GPS coordinates are used for 23.5 hours if manual coordinates are
not entered. See the
MANUAL LL item of the DATA SET topic of the Main
Menu.
MMSID
SPECIAL NOTE
In order to use DSC functions, you must obtain a nine-digit maritime
mobile service identity (MMSI) and program it into your transceiver be-
fore you transmit.
Prior to obtaining an MMSI, you will be asked to provide certain informa-
tion about your vessel and communication equipment. Contact the govern-
ment radio communication authorities of your country for licensing and
MMSI information. It is important that you obtain an MMSI, because Na-
tional Coast Guard authorities use this information to help speed search
and rescue operations.
The procedure for entering your MMSI is described in the MMSID Set topic
of the Operating Procedures section.