DSC Q&A
How do you know if your current VHF radio has DSC?
The simple answer: If your radio has a button that is covered by a bright red, see-through plastic cover, then it has DSC (Digital Select Calling) capability. Note that DSC does not work “out of the box”. It requires the owner/installer to follow some simple steps for it to be enabled. Refer to: ‘After you buy a Class D VHF radio’ of these instructions for details. Please note that not all fixed-mount DSC VHF radios are Class D compliant, and must be in order to be installed in any vessel.
A few manufacturers are beginning to make hand-held radios that are currently available with built-in GPS, and so they are capable of Digital Select Calling. The major advantage to these newest handhelds, is that you can automatically communicate your digital coordinates – Important if you have no EPIRB or PLB, or if you want redundant forms of location-sending devices.
A few manufacturers are beginning to make hand-held radios that are currently available with built-in GPS, and so they are capable of Digital Select Calling. The major advantage to these newest handhelds, is that you can automatically communicate your digital coordinates – Important if you have no EPIRB or PLB, or if you want redundant forms of location-sending devices.
How do you know if your current radio is a Class D radio?
Typically this information is not shown anywhere on the radio, so you’ll need to do a little research. Consult your owner’s manual or look-up the model number (not the model name) on the internet. If your radio was purchased prior to March 2011, it may not be Class D compliant.
What happens when you push the red button?
When the DSC (Digital Select Calling) button under the red flap is pressed, digital information (not audio) is sent from your VHF radio to the Coast Guard, via the Rescue 21 system. This digital information includes your MMSI number and your coordinates. The Coast Guard can then look-up detailed information that you supplied when you registered-for (and received) your MMSI. Also after the button is pressed, your radio will automatically switch to channel 16, so the Coast Guard and other VHF radio equipped vessels may hear your calls and communicate with you. If their radios are Class D compliant, other radio operators/vessels will automatically hear your calls after the red button is pressed on your radio.
Important note: If your vessel is more than 25 nautical miles from the nearest Rescue 21 station, the Coast Guard may not receive your distress call. However, if you are out-of-range, it is still important to press the button if you are in distress. Why? –Because other vessels within reception range will likely hear your distress call, and may be able to communicate with the Coast Guard for you, and may be able to offer direct assistance before the Coast Guard can reach you.
Important note: If your vessel is more than 25 nautical miles from the nearest Rescue 21 station, the Coast Guard may not receive your distress call. However, if you are out-of-range, it is still important to press the button if you are in distress. Why? –Because other vessels within reception range will likely hear your distress call, and may be able to communicate with the Coast Guard for you, and may be able to offer direct assistance before the Coast Guard can reach you.
What is the “Rescue 21” system, and is it available in your area?
Rescue 21 is the system communication and implementation that the Coast Guard uses for monitoring distress calls (including DSC calls), as well as to aid in homeland security.
This description is from Coast Guard website:
Rescue 21 is the United States Coast Guard’s advanced command, control and communications system. Created to improve the ability to assist mariners in distress and save lives and property at sea, the system is currently being installed in stages across the United States.
This description is from Coast Guard website:
Rescue 21 is the United States Coast Guard’s advanced command, control and communications system. Created to improve the ability to assist mariners in distress and save lives and property at sea, the system is currently being installed in stages across the United States.
