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VHF radio recommendation
Any recommendations for a low cost, mounted, basic VHF radio? The display
has given out on my old radio. I am considering the Uniden Solara and would appreciate comments on this model or suggestions for others. Mark (the rail & canopy hook guy) www.ripnet.com/vtf/prod03.htm |
I would suggest stepping up enough to get DSC. They may not even offer
VHF without digital select calling anymore, I haven't checked recently. My VHF is 15-20 years old and still going strong, as are a probable majority of units from the same era. My next VHF will have DSC, and maybe one of the microphones that can change channels etc. All of these VHF radios are relatively inexpensive, as boating gear goes, as long as you stick to the basic functions. It would be hard to wrong with ICOM, Uniden, Raymarine, or other major brands. VHF (thankfully) is usually trouble free. If your boat is a single helm model, save enough money for a decent hand held VHF to go into the spares locker. The odds of both radios crapping out at the same time are almost zero, but you will have more limited range on the hand held. |
My marina neighbor had a Uniden (not sure of the model) and was never
pleased with the sound quality. He compared it to the my Standard Eclipse and ended up replacing his. I have always felt that Standard and Icon both made good products. "Mark" wrote in message sgroups.com... Any recommendations for a low cost, mounted, basic VHF radio? The display has given out on my old radio. I am considering the Uniden Solara and would appreciate comments on this model or suggestions for others. Mark (the rail & canopy hook guy) www.ripnet.com/vtf/prod03.htm |
On Fri, 11 Mar 2005 08:07:23 -0500, "Mark"
wrote: Any recommendations for a low cost, mounted, basic VHF radio? The display has given out on my old radio. I am considering the Uniden Solara and would appreciate comments on this model or suggestions for others. I'll let you in on a little secret - other than price, VHF marine radios are pretty much all the same in terms of performance. They all function in the same way. It's just a question of what you are comfortable with - orange backlight, green backlight, button placement, how intuitive the controls are, etc. I prefer Icom equipment and have for years. Oddly, in the amateur radio world, I use Yaesu equipment, but for this kind of use, Icom is the master. Virtually bullet proof. With respect to Uniden, it's a popular radio, I haven't heard much bad about them in terms of service/repair and if it's priced right for you, it's the deal you want to take advantage of. As to specs, they all are spec'd out the same. Some will claim that it "meets" standard, some will claim they exceed standard - blah, blah, blah. As long as they meet spec, it's fine - don't go overboard. Good luck. Later, Tom |
I use to have a radio mounted in the nav station and use a handheld in the
cockpit. I now have a Standard mounted in the nav station and a RAM mic in the cockpit and am very pleased with this setup. MMC "Dr. Jonathan Smithers, MD Phd." wrote in message ... My marina neighbor had a Uniden (not sure of the model) and was never pleased with the sound quality. He compared it to the my Standard Eclipse and ended up replacing his. I have always felt that Standard and Icon both made good products. "Mark" wrote in message sgroups.com... Any recommendations for a low cost, mounted, basic VHF radio? The display has given out on my old radio. I am considering the Uniden Solara and would appreciate comments on this model or suggestions for others. Mark (the rail & canopy hook guy) www.ripnet.com/vtf/prod03.htm |
"Dr. Jonathan Smithers, MD Phd." wrote in message ... My marina neighbor had a Uniden (not sure of the model) and was never pleased with the sound quality. He compared it to the my Standard Eclipse and ended up replacing his. I have always felt that Standard and Icon both made good products. You can always use a remote extension speaker. They are fairly cheap, directional (can be mounted anywhere) and vastly improve the sound quality. I had a small 2 1/2" "Poly Planer" on mine and it was terrific. The speaker was waterproof and corrosion proof. |
wrote in message ups.com... I would suggest stepping up enough to get DSC. I agree on the DSC capability. Some low to medium priced VHF units are capable of being interfaced with your fixed mount GPS. That is how I have mine set up. However, there are now VHF units that have their own GPS. Even if you don't hook it up to your fixed mount GPS, you may want to in the future. In my recent VHF upgrade, I went for the DSC, Hailer/with listen-back and programmable frog horn/siren. A note of caution: when you program your vessel ID into the new VHF, read and follow the instruction carefully. In my Standard Horizon, I get only 2 tries and then it has to go back to Standard to erase the incorrect ID. This was a no cost service but require that I have West Marine return it and that took about a week. Regarding my experience with Standard Horizon VHF. I have had 3 different models over the past 14 years. One had a bad mike cord which I paid for the repairs since it was out of warrantee, 2nd worked fine for 3 years until I upgraded to get the above mentioned features, while the 3rd (and present unit) failed last summer due to a heat related problem at the chart table. It was repaired under warrantee and would have been replaced by West Marine if that model had been current and available. Took about a week for repairs at no cost. Also I recommend watching for mfg'ers rebates. I got a $30 rebate off the heavily discounted/sale price and ended up only paying about $180 for a $350 unit. Good shopping Steve s/v Good Intentions |
I now have my VHF mounted just inside the companionway and the mike is
mounted to a clip within hands reach from my tiller station. I still have to leave the tiller for some features however my mike does have channel up/down, 16 and works (marginally) also as a remote speaker. I would like to add a cockpit speaker for next season. Steve s/v Good Intentions |
Last year I picked up a new Standard with DSC capabilites - it connects into the GPS. I like it because the mike also doubles as a speaker. Sandy K. |
Mark wrote:
Any recommendations for a low cost, mounted, basic VHF radio? The display has given out on my old radio. I am considering the Uniden Solara and would appreciate comments on this model or suggestions for others. Hi Mark, DSC VHF is the way to go, and will become your only option in the not too distant future, but keep in mind you'll need to install and interface it with a GPS in order for it to work properly. You'll also have to register it so you can set up your MMSI. If cruising and bluewater sailing aren't in your plans, maybe just a good, waterproof hand held VHF is all you'll need. Icom, Standard and Horizon are good names, but there are others equally good. -- =-------------------------------------------------= Renewontime A FREE email reminder service for licensed mariners http://www.renewontime.com =-------------------------------------------------= |
"Mark" wrote in
sgroups.com: Any recommendations for a low cost, mounted, basic VHF radio? The display has given out on my old radio. I am considering the Uniden Solara and would appreciate comments on this model or suggestions for others. Mark (the rail & canopy hook guy) www.ripnet.com/vtf/prod03.htm Icom M59. Great radio. I couldn't even destroy the one mounted in the dash of my Sea Rayder 16' jetboat jumping waves/wakes and drowning it.....(c; |
"Dr. Jonathan Smithers, MD Phd." wrote in
: My marina neighbor had a Uniden (not sure of the model) and was never pleased with the sound quality. He compared it to the my Standard Eclipse and ended up replacing his. I have always felt that Standard and Icon both made good products. I had a Standard Eclipse Plus destroy my battery in my jetboat. Seawater leaked in around the "sealed, waterproof" speaker...drizzle back along the main circuit board into the pins of the RF power amp brick which is ALWAYS powered up, even when the radio is off. The salt caused the brick to draw about 3A of current and killed the boat's battery REALLY dead. The radio was destroyed as the salt ate the components off the board. In ANY of these little VHF radios, it's a good idea to disconnect the power from them any time you are not using them....breaker or disconnect switch. Their RF power amplifier ICs do NOT go through the "power switch", which only switches off the main radio. These ICs draw no idle current....unless what happened to me happens to you. After losing two Standard Eclipse Plus radios to leakage, I got an Icom M59 for the boat and it worked fantastic for years. The guy who bought the jetboat is still using it. |
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On Fri, 11 Mar 2005 12:35:27 -0500, Larry W4CSC
wrote: I had a Standard Eclipse Plus destroy my battery in my jetboat. Seawater leaked in around the "sealed, waterproof" speaker...drizzle back along the main circuit board into the pins of the RF power amp brick which is ALWAYS powered up, even when the radio is off. =========================== Larry, with all due respect, a real boat would have the radio wired through a circuit breaker and/or battery switch. |
In article ,
"Steve" wrote: I now have my VHF mounted just inside the companionway and the mike is mounted to a clip within hands reach from my tiller station. I still have to leave the tiller for some features however my mike does have channel up/down, 16 and works (marginally) also as a remote speaker. I would like to add a cockpit speaker for next season. Steve s/v Good Intentions Hey Steve, Are you coming north this summer? Bruce in alaska -- add a 2 before @ |
On Fri, 11 Mar 2005 13:56:01 -0500, Wayne.B
wrote: On 11 Mar 2005 05:35:59 -0800, wrote: I would suggest stepping up enough to get DSC. ============================= Is there a test process for VHF/DSC? My latest boat came with two DSC capable ICOMs but I have no idea if the feature is even hooked up, let alone working. Also, I have no idea what vessel ID is programmed, if any. Most likely not. DSC hasn't been widely used until last summer. To test it, I believe you have to go to channel 9, but don't quote me on that. There's more information here. http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/marcomms/gmdss/dsc.htm FYI: Region 1 just implemented DSC late last summer on a full scale basis. Later, Tom |
On Fri, 11 Mar 2005 13:58:58 -0500, Wayne.B
wrote: On Fri, 11 Mar 2005 12:35:27 -0500, Larry W4CSC wrote: I had a Standard Eclipse Plus destroy my battery in my jetboat. Seawater leaked in around the "sealed, waterproof" speaker...drizzle back along the main circuit board into the pins of the RF power amp brick which is ALWAYS powered up, even when the radio is off. =========================== Larry, with all due respect, a real boat would have the radio wired through a circuit breaker and/or battery switch. This is the same guy who likes Metz antennas. Later, Tom |
"Wayne.B" wrote On 11 Mar 2005 05:35:59 -0800, wrote: I would suggest stepping up enough to get DSC. ============================= Is there a test process for VHF/DSC? My latest boat came with two DSC capable ICOMs but I have no idea if the feature is even hooked up, let alone working. Also, I have no idea what vessel ID is programmed, if any. There is no license or test required to be a voluntarily-equipped DSC-GMDSS vessel, the category which most recreational boaters fall into. But you must register an MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identifier) number to YOUR vessel. The number (if any) that was in the used radio is not valid any longer. Also, a U.S. vessel that plans to dock (or communicate) at a non-US port of call, must have a restricted radiotelephone operators license. This good for life (of the vessel you own and operate) and also does not involve any exam. The license covers vhf, hf, gmdss and radars with no description of equipments required. It will include applying for an MMSI to be used internationally. Changing the MMSI on a radio can be done by the owner, providing you have the owner's operation manual which provides these instructions. Many radio manufacturers provide manuals online. BOAT-US has an 800 # for you to call where an experienced associate can walk you through the procedures involved. That number is: 1-800-566-1536 (working hours). Or you can simply walk-in to any BOAT-US store with your radio(s) and do the same. Also be advised that BOAT-US provided registration of MMSI (free to all who apply) does NOT register your MMSI for international voyages. Americans must apply to the FCC for an MMSI to be used in conjunction with a restricted operators license and international travel. Best regards, Jack Painter Virginia Beach, Virginia |
On Fri, 11 Mar 2005 19:43:15 GMT, Short Wave Sportfishing
wrote: This is the same guy who likes Metz antennas. ============================================ They have their uses. When I was racing sailboats and trying to minimize weight and wind resistance, the Metz was a good compromise. |
I see the Standard radio is mentioned here often, so I would like to add
a little plug. I got a Standard Horizon about 29 years ago when the AM radios became obsolete. Its been in constant service ever since. I do a radio check with someone in the marina a few times a year to be sure its still working OK. I have a severe hearing loss, so I only keep it for emergencies. The only service that has been perfomed was to add 2 new crystals. (Yeah, its a crystal controlled radio, only 10 channels) Happy boating, Norm |
In article 5UpYd.61628$7z6.35203@lakeread04,
"Jack Painter" wrote: Also, a U.S. vessel that plans to dock (or communicate) at a non-US port of call, must have a restricted radiotelephone operators license. This good for life (of the vessel you own and operate) and also does not involve any exam. The license covers vhf, hf, gmdss and radars with no description of equipments required. It will include applying for an MMSI to be used internationally. Again, jackie is extending information that he doesn't understand....... HEY JACK, How about you "GET A CLUE before you confuse folks with your uninformed information. First: A Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit is for a PERSON not a vessel. It is an "OPERATORs" and a vessel can't be an operator. Second: A US Flagged vessel, if it is to operate outside US Territorial Waters, AND communicate with non-US Coast Stations, must have a valid Ship Radio Station License issued by the FCC. Third: If, and only if, the vessel has fitted, only VHF Radios and, or, a Marine S or Xband Radar, and does not communicated with non-US Coast Stations, it MAY be covered by the Blanket License issued by the FCC, which covers all such vessels in perpituity, and does not require any action on the owners, or operators parts as far as licensing is concerened. Fourth: If, and only if, the vessel is operating under the Blanket License, an Operator Permit is NOT Required to operate the fitted equipment. Fifth: If, and only if, the vessel is operating under the Blanket License, the owner/operator MAY request a MMSI from the dually appointed Voluntary MMSI Registrant, and that MMSI will be recorded against the Documentation Number (either US or State) of the Vessel. Sixth: When a vessel is issued a Ship Radio Station License the FCC will issue a MMSI along with the Callsign, which is recorded against the Documentation Number (either US or State) of the Vessel. Now that we got that straight....... Carry on....... Bruce in alaska who wishes that USCG would refrain from distributing uninformed information....... -- add a 2 before @ |
"Bruce in Alaska" slid off his stool and shouted: "Jack Painter" wrote: Also, a U.S. vessel that plans to dock (or communicate) at a non-US port of call, must have a restricted radiotelephone operators license. This good for life (of the vessel you own and operate) and also does not involve any exam. The license covers vhf, hf, gmdss and radars with no description of equipments required. It will include applying for an MMSI to be used internationally. Again, jackie is extending information that he doesn't understand....... HEY JACK, How about you "GET A CLUE before you confuse folks with your uninformed information. First: A Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit is for a PERSON not a vessel. It is an "OPERATORs" and a vessel can't be an operator. I know that Bruce. I mentioned the "vessel" because it is for the owner of A VESSEL, and cannot be transferred or used when the licensee goes to another vessel. So it is "for life" only if it remains ON THAT VESSEL. Please grow up or go back to your barstool. Second: A US Flagged vessel, if it is to operate outside US Territorial Waters, AND communicate with non-US Coast Stations, must have a valid Ship Radio Station License issued by the FCC. Here you go mixing up licenses again, forgetting the title and topic of this newsgroup is RECREATIONAL boating. Only a Restricted Operators permit is required for a recreational boater who wants to visit a foreign port. His boat can remain "covered by the rule" which means no station license for VHF-only, and the ROP covers his carriage of the radio, whether he uses it OR NOT, in a foreign port. Third: If, and only if, the vessel has fitted, only VHF Radios and, or, a Marine S or Xband Radar, and does not communicated with non-US Coast Stations, it MAY be covered by the Blanket License issued by the FCC, which covers all such vessels in perpituity, and does not require any action on the owners, or operators parts as far as licensing is concerened. That's called being "covered by the rule" and does not permit a vessel to dock in a foreign port, which is why it's another of your useless comments that serves only the interests of your strange ego. Fourth: /snipped unadulterated blabber .. Fifth: /snipped unadulterated blabber Sixth: /snipped unadulterated blabber Now that we got that straight....... Carry on....... Bruce in alaska who wishes that USCG would refrain from distributing uninformed information....... "Straight" is a concept difficult to apply to your posts. The information I posted is current, accurate, and applies to the questions posted by Wayne B. The rules have changed since the time you claimed to have once been a field-rep for the FCC. Try to remember the "recreational" concept of the newsgroup, please. Best regards, Jack Painter Virginia Beach, Virginia |
On Sat, 12 Mar 2005 14:14:04 -0500, "Jack Painter"
wrote: A Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit is for a PERSON not a vessel. It is an "OPERATORs" and a vessel can't be an operator. I know that Bruce. I mentioned the "vessel" because it is for the owner of A VESSEL, and cannot be transferred or used when the licensee goes to another vessel. So it is "for life" only if it remains ON THAT VESSEL. Please grow up or go back to your barstool. // Jack Painter Virginia Beach, Virginia I don't think that's right Jack. An operators license follows the operator. Brian W |
On Sat, 12 Mar 2005 14:14:04 -0500, "Jack Painter"
wrote: "Bruce in Alaska" slid off his stool and shouted: "Jack Painter" wrote: Also, a U.S. vessel that plans to dock (or communicate) at a non-US port of call, must have a restricted radiotelephone operators license. This good for life (of the vessel you own and operate) and also does not involve any exam. The license covers vhf, hf, gmdss and radars with no description of equipments required. It will include applying for an MMSI to be used internationally. Again, jackie is extending information that he doesn't understand....... HEY JACK, How about you "GET A CLUE before you confuse folks with your uninformed information. First: A Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit is for a PERSON not a vessel. It is an "OPERATORs" and a vessel can't be an operator. I know that Bruce. I mentioned the "vessel" because it is for the owner of A VESSEL, and cannot be transferred or used when the licensee goes to another vessel. So it is "for life" only if it remains ON THAT VESSEL. Please grow up or go back to your barstool. Um....I don't think this is right. The Operator's permit is not restricted to any vessel - it is a personal license not a station license. My GROL license isn't restricted to any vessel and it operates under the same rules as the RROP. http://wireless.fcc.gov/commoperators/rp.html Just trying to understand. Later, Tom |
"Brian Whatcott" wrote in message ... On Sat, 12 Mar 2005 14:14:04 -0500, "Jack Painter" wrote: A Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit is for a PERSON not a vessel. It is an "OPERATORs" and a vessel can't be an operator. I know that Bruce. I mentioned the "vessel" because it is for the owner of A VESSEL, and cannot be transferred or used when the licensee goes to another vessel. So it is "for life" only if it remains ON THAT VESSEL. Please grow up or go back to your barstool. // Jack Painter Virginia Beach, Virginia I don't think that's right Jack. An operators license follows the operator. Brian W You're Right. On the FCC website; If you have a RESTRICTED RADIOTELEPHONE OPERATOR PERMIT, you should retain it for future use since it is authorized for your lifetime. It's the station license, applies to equipment on specific boat. It is only when applying for that license, as I explained earlier before Bruce's tirade, can a boater obtain an FCC-issued MMSI, which registers his MMSI internationally. BOAT-US continues to fulfill the MMSI requirements of all domestic-only voyagers. Their volunteer-provided database, while useable by the USCG, is unfortunately not compatible with either the FCC's or ITU's. So much for no good deed going unpunished. Jack |
Wayne.B wrote in
: Larry, with all due respect, a real boat would have the radio wired through a circuit breaker and/or battery switch. Whoa! The radio WAS wired through a fuse panel! 3 amps doesn't blow a 10A fuse and the 3A gave no indication (smoke, fire, etc.) that it was happening until I turned my key to be met with total silence. I plugged it into 12v again and measured the drain....nearly 3A dead on the nose. The salt shorting out the pins on the power amp IC had changed the bias on the IC between pins from class C (no current with no RF drive) to sort of class A (always conducting, even with the power switch off!) It just sat there converting my 115AH deep cycle/starting battery into a hot heat sink.....dammit. |
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On Fri, 11 Mar 2005 08:07:23 -0500, "Mark"
wrote: Any recommendations for a low cost, mounted, basic VHF radio? The display has given out on my old radio. I am considering the Uniden Solara and would appreciate comments on this model or suggestions for others. Mark (the rail & canopy hook guy) www.ripnet.com/vtf/prod03.htm I would stay away from Uniden. Lokk at Kenwoods or Icom. |
In article 1cHYd.62360$7z6.6536@lakeread04,
"Jack Painter" wrote: I know that Bruce. I mentioned the "vessel" because it is for the owner of A VESSEL, and cannot be transferred or used when the licensee goes to another vessel. So it is "for life" only if it remains ON THAT VESSEL. Please grow up or go back to your barstool. Wrong again Jackie..... the Resricted Radiotelephone Operators Permit is a PERSONAL Operators License and does NOT go with any Radio Station License, one may, or may not have issued to a vessel or aircraft they may own. It is also REQUIRED to be in the possession of any Pilot who makes an International Flight, or who flys outside US airspace and under a Non-US Flight Control Center. It is NOT tied to any vessel or aircraft, and is a Lifetime Permit, for that reason. You may change vessels or aircraft and Station Licenses for them, but you NEVER need to change your Resricted Radiotelephone Operators Permit. Here you go mixing up licenses again, forgetting the title and topic of this newsgroup is RECREATIONAL boating. Only a Restricted Operators permit is required for a recreational boater who wants to visit a foreign port. His boat can remain "covered by the rule" which means no station license for VHF-only, and the ROP covers his carriage of the radio, whether he uses it OR NOT, in a foreign port. Jackie, you need a bit of a refresher in your International Radio Law, son.. If a US Flagged vessel is fitted with a VHF radio, and Licensed under the Blanket License Rule, and leaves US Waters and enters a foreign port, it is as if he had NO Authorization for the fitted Radio. Said radio would not be covered under International Law to transmit under any circiumstance, baring a Distress Transmission. It doesn't matter if it is a "recreational boater" or not. I am not "mixing up" anything, just presenting the FACTS of International Maritime Radio Law, which you seem to not be able to grasp. A Restricted Radiotelephone Operators Permit is NOT a Station License, and confers no Authority to Fit, or imply Legality of Carriage, that requires a Station License. Station and Operator Licenses are two DIFFERENT things. How hard can this be to graps? That's called being "covered by the rule" and does not permit a vessel to dock in a foreign port, which is why it's another of your useless comments that serves only the interests of your strange ego. This has absolutly nothing to do with "dock in a foreign port" in anyway. A US Flagged vessel may certainly "dock in a foreign port" with a fitted VHF Radio that would be Licensed in US waters under the Blanket License Rule, the Operator just could not legally make any Transmissions from inside the waters of another country, or communicate with any station, once he entered the waters of another country. Why is this so hard for you to grasp? Actually, in some countries, it is a CRIME to have a Radiotelephone fitted, and no Internationally Recognized License for such a Radio, and they maybe impounded by the Government, whos water your in. The Rules have not changed, since the last time I reveiwed the IMO Annual Meeting Minutes. I was never a "field-rep", in fact I was Field Agant dually sworn, with the same Oath that you took, upon entering the USCG, no claim, just FACT. I still have my Badge, and cancelled Credentials, as do all Retired and RIF'd Field Agants. Bruce in alaska -- Bruce (semiretired powderman & exFCC Field Inspector for Southeastern Alaska) add a 2 before @ Bruce Gordon * Debora Gordon R.N. Bruce's Trading Post P.O. Box EXI Excursion Inlet South Juneau, Alaska 99850 Excursion Inlet, Alaska 99850 www.btpost.net www.99850.net |
"Bruce Gordon" wrote /snip/ Wrong again Jackie..... the Resricted Radiotelephone Operators Permit is a PERSONAL Operators License and does NOT go with any Radio Station License, one may, or may not have issued to a vessel or aircraft they may own. It is also REQUIRED to be in the possession of any Pilot who makes an International Flight, or who flys outside US airspace and under a Non-US Flight Control Center. It is NOT tied to any vessel or aircraft, and is a Lifetime Permit, for that reason. You may change vessels or aircraft and Station Licenses for them, but you NEVER need to change your Resricted Radiotelephone Operators Permit. Allright Bruce, if that is so, then please explain why the FCC requires specific ship information on the application form (605 main) for an RR license, and why same instructions include use of the same form for later modifying ships (or aircraft) information (no fee required for the mod) ? Sure looks like the "operator" is tied to a specific vessel.. The 605 form is not a ship's license application form, so what possible reason could there be for including the vessel data (and requiring it's modification if changed) on the RR application, if the RR permit was not tied to a particular vessel? And why in the supplemental information forms required with 605,, there is included a temporary restricted radiotelephone operator permit that uses the vessels documentation number as the callsign? If the vessel changes (sold, replaced with new boat, etc), do these instructions not specifically require amending the restricted radiotelephone operators permit? I read that they do, and it looks plain to me that if you applied for an RR for international voyages (the only reason for having it on a pleasure/voluntary vessel per the form itself), then you must maintain current vessel information related to that RR permit, and file a modification when the vessel changes.. Temporary permit: http://www.fcc.gov/Forms/Form605/605f.pdf Instructions for Temporary Operator Permit for the Ship, Aircraft, Restricted Radiotelephone, Restricted Radiotelephone-Limited Use, and GMRS Radio Services Do Not Use if Applying for Ship Exemption DO NOT MAIL THIS SCHEDULE TO THE FCC - KEEP IT FOR YOUR RECORDS Form FCC 605, Schedule F, is a supplementary schedule for use with the FCC Quick-Form Application for Authorization in the Ship, Aircraft, Amateur, Restricted and Commercial Operator, and the General Mobile Radio Services, FCC 605 Main Form. This schedule is to be used as a Temporary Operator Permit for the Ship, Aircraft, Restricted Radiotelephone, Restricted Radiotelephone-Limited Use, and GMRS Radio Services while your application is being processed by the FCC. In order for this Temporary Operator Permit to be valid, you must complete the FCC 605 Main Form and the appropriate Additional Data Schedule and submit them to the FCC. Main form-605 for Restricted Operator http://www.fcc.gov/Forms/Form605/605main.pdf Best regards, Jack |
On Sat, 12 Mar 2005 14:14:04 -0500, "Jack Painter"
wrote: The information I posted is current, accurate, and applies to the questions posted by Wayne B. ================================= Actually not. My question was, "How can I ensure that my DSC radio is actually hooked up and working, i.e, is the position information and identifier being sent correctly?" The licensing information and issuance of an identifier is an entirely different topic. |
On Mon, 14 Mar 2005 03:28:21 -0500, Wayne.B
wrote: On Sat, 12 Mar 2005 14:14:04 -0500, "Jack Painter" wrote: The information I posted is current, accurate, and applies to the questions posted by Wayne B. ================================= Actually not. My question was, "How can I ensure that my DSC radio is actually hooked up and working, i.e, is the position information and identifier being sent correctly?" The licensing information and issuance of an identifier is an entirely different topic. As I understand it, and this could be wrong, the GPS information is sent via the radio to the coast station which verifies the receipt of the information. Accuracy of the information is strictly up to the operator to verify using charts I would think. I believe the procedure is to call USCG, ask to test, they confirm the test, you press the magic button, they confirm receipt and the data and it's over with. I haven't heard that done and I have never received a DSC call on my radios. It's my understanding that 1st District hasn't implemented it yet, but I could be wrong. Or perhaps a lot of people haven't hooked up their units yet - I don't know. Later, Tom |
"Wayne.B" wrote Actually not. My question was, "How can I ensure that my DSC radio is actually hooked up and working, i.e, is the position information and identifier being sent correctly?" The licensing information and issuance of an identifier is an entirely different topic. You posted these questions: "Is there a test process for VHF/DSC? My latest boat came with two DSC capable ICOMs but I have no idea if the feature is even hooked up, let alone working. Also, I have no idea what vessel ID is programmed, if any." -- Testing the distress-signal feature of a vhf radio with the "Distress" button on front panel is never permitted. The radio has other dsc features which your owner's manual will describe, and vary from model to model. You can operate your dsc-capable radio according to it's individual capabilities with other dsc-capable radios, according to their capabilities. Several different versions of dsc are on the water. All this is covered in the owner's manual. -- I did remind you that " you must register an MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identifier) number to YOUR vessel. The number (if any) that was in the used radio is not valid any longer." and "Changing the MMSI on a radio can be done by the owner, providing you have the owner's operation manual which provides these instructions. Many radio manufacturers provide manuals online. BOAT-US has an 800 # for you to call where an experienced associate can walk you through the procedures involved. That number is: 1-800-566-1536 (working hours). Or you can simply walk-in to any BOAT-US store with your radio(s) and do the same" -- Is this clear what your first steps should be, ie: obtaining an owner's manual, determining what your radio is capable of, then registering an MMSI via phone and programming or letting a BOAT-US associate do it for you, then hooking up your GPS according to the instruction manuals, and operating your radio in accordance with it's instruction manuals? Jack |
In article ,
Wayne.B wrote: Actually not. My question was, "How can I ensure that my DSC radio is actually hooked up and working, i.e, is the position information and identifier being sent correctly?" The licensing information and issuance of an identifier is an entirely different topic. If you knew someone with a ROSS DSC Vhf from a few years back, it will display the data transmitted from a DSC Radio. This could be done with the test radio on a "Dummy Load" so as to not radiate a False Distress Signal. Or, just about any full GMDSS Suite could display the data transmitted. Bruce in alaska -- add a 2 before @ |
In article m0jZd.63327$7z6.25479@lakeread04,
"Jack Painter" wrote: You posted these questions: "Is there a test process for VHF/DSC? My latest boat came with two DSC capable ICOMs but I have no idea if the feature is even hooked up, let alone working. Also, I have no idea what vessel ID is programmed, if any." -- Testing the distress-signal feature of a vhf radio with the "Distress" button on front panel is never permitted. The radio has other dsc features which your owner's manual will describe, and vary from model to model. You can operate your dsc-capable radio according to it's individual capabilities with other dsc-capable radios, according to their capabilities. Several different versions of dsc are on the water. All this is covered in the owner's manual. -- I did remind you that " you must register an MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identifier) number to YOUR vessel. The number (if any) that was in the used radio is not valid any longer." and "Changing the MMSI on a radio can be done by the owner, providing you have the owner's operation manual which provides these instructions. Many radio manufacturers provide manuals online. BOAT-US has an 800 # for you to call where an experienced associate can walk you through the procedures involved. That number is: 1-800-566-1536 (working hours). Or you can simply walk-in to any BOAT-US store with your radio(s) and do the same" -- Is this clear what your first steps should be, ie: obtaining an owner's manual, determining what your radio is capable of, then registering an MMSI via phone and programming or letting a BOAT-US associate do it for you, then hooking up your GPS according to the instruction manuals, and operating your radio in accordance with it's instruction manuals? Jack What Jack really meant is: "Read your Radio's Manual" Brevity is not Jacks strong suite, and he still doesn't 'Get" what you really wanted in your original question. Oh well, there are a lot of things that Jack doesn't "Get"........ Me one wonders if Jack actually "Gets" anything....... |
In article re4Zd.62623$7z6.38138@lakeread04,
"Jack Painter" wrote: Allright Bruce, if that is so, then please explain why the FCC requires specific ship information on the application form (605 main) for an RR license, and why same instructions include use of the same form for later modifying ships (or aircraft) information (no fee required for the mod) ? Sure looks like the "operator" is tied to a specific vessel.. The 605 form is not a ship's license application form, so what possible reason could there be for including the vessel data (and requiring it's modification if changed) on the RR application, if the RR permit was not tied to a particular vessel? And why in the supplemental information forms required with 605,, there is included a temporary restricted radiotelephone operator permit that uses the vessels documentation number as the callsign? If the vessel changes (sold, replaced with new boat, etc), do these instructions not specifically require amending the restricted radiotelephone operators permit? I read that they do, and it looks plain to me that if you applied for an RR for international voyages (the only reason for having it on a pleasure/voluntary vessel per the form itself), then you must maintain current vessel information related to that RR permit, and file a modification when the vessel changes.. Temporary permit: http://www.fcc.gov/Forms/Form605/605f.pdf Instructions for Temporary Operator Permit for the Ship, Aircraft, Restricted Radiotelephone, Restricted Radiotelephone-Limited Use, and GMRS Radio Services Do Not Use if Applying for Ship Exemption DO NOT MAIL THIS SCHEDULE TO THE FCC - KEEP IT FOR YOUR RECORDS Form FCC 605, Schedule F, is a supplementary schedule for use with the FCC Quick-Form Application for Authorization in the Ship, Aircraft, Amateur, Restricted and Commercial Operator, and the General Mobile Radio Services, FCC 605 Main Form. This schedule is to be used as a Temporary Operator Permit for the Ship, Aircraft, Restricted Radiotelephone, Restricted Radiotelephone-Limited Use, and GMRS Radio Services while your application is being processed by the FCC. In order for this Temporary Operator Permit to be valid, you must complete the FCC 605 Main Form and the appropriate Additional Data Schedule and submit them to the FCC. Main form-605 for Restricted Operator http://www.fcc.gov/Forms/Form605/605main.pdf Best regards, Jack You know Jackieboy, if you could actually read, it would save you, from folks hanging the "Dufus Lable" on you, so often......... See Gary S's post..... He explains it to you in "Small Words" that you MAY be able to comprehend. Yes, I acknowledge that the FCC Form 605 is a monsterious cludge of a form, and beyond what meer mortals can decphyer, but Jeeeze Louise, Jack they write the instructions for 6th Graders....... I get paid lots of money to help folks find their way through the FCC Licensing System, but not ususally for Resrticted Radiotelephone Operator Permits. If you really can't make your way thru that filing, I guess I could actully entertain the idea of doing one for you Pro Bono, seeing as you are "Intelectually challenged", and since it is a Lifetime Permit I would only have to do it once. Bruce in alaska -- add a 2 before @ |
Bruce,
We both made errors in interpreting the law here, as described on the FCC website and the CFR. to wit: "Bruce Gordon" wrote "Jack Painter" wrote: Here you go mixing up licenses again, forgetting the title and topic of this newsgroup is RECREATIONAL boating. Only a Restricted Operators permit is required for a recreational boater who wants to visit a foreign port. His boat can remain "covered by the rule" which means no station license for VHF-only, and the ROP covers his carriage of the radio, whether he uses it OR NOT, in a foreign port. (I was wrong, the Station license is indeed also required) Jackie, you need a bit of a refresher in your International Radio Law, son.. If a US Flagged vessel is fitted with a VHF radio, and Licensed under the Blanket License Rule, and leaves US Waters and enters a foreign port, it is as if he had NO Authorization for the fitted Radio. Said radio would not be covered under International Law to transmit under any circiumstance, baring a Distress Transmission. (You were wrong, according to the rules, voluntary equipped or not, vessels with radios may not enter or dock foreign port w/o RO & SL.) --------------------------- That's called being "covered by the rule" and does not permit a vessel to dock in a foreign port This has absolutly nothing to do with "dock in a foreign port" in anyway. A US Flagged vessel may certainly "dock in a foreign port" with a fitted VHF Radio that would be Licensed in US waters under the Blanket License Rule, the Operator just could not legally make any Transmissions from inside the waters of another country, or communicate with any station, once he entered the waters of another country. (You were wrong, the rules clearly describe "dock in foreign port" and "enter foreign port" as the requirement for a RO in addition to SL. Only "sailing in international waters and not comunicating with a foreign station" are exempt.) Shown he http://wireless.fcc.gov/marine/fctsht14.html#SEC2 WHO NEEDS A SHIP STATION LICENSE? You do not need a license to operate a marine VHF radio, radar, or EPIRBs aboard voluntary ships operating domestically. The terms "voluntary" and "domestic" are defined below. WHAT IS DOMESTIC OPERATION? Ships are considered as operating domestically when they do not travel to foreign ports or do not transmit radio communications to foreign stations. Sailing in international waters is permitted, so long as the previous conditions are met. If you travel to a foreign port (e.g., Canada, Mexico, Bahamas, British Virgin Islands) a license is required. Additionally, if you travel to a foreign port, you are required to have an operator permit as described in Section III. DO I NEED A RESTRICTED RADIOTELEPHONE OPERATOR PERMIT? If you plan to dock in a foreign port (e.g., Canada or the Bahamas) or if you communicate with foreign coast or ship stations, you must have a RESTRICTED RADIOTELEPHONE OPERATOR PERMIT (sometimes referred to by boaters as an "individual license") in addition to your ship radio station license. Section IV outlines the procedure for obtaining a permit. However, if (1) you merely plan to sail in domestic or international waters without docking in any foreign ports and without communicating with foreign coast stations, and (2) your radio operates only on VHF frequencies, you do not need an operator permit. ** note the multiple references to "travel to foreign port", and "dock in foreign port". And the form-605 instructions insists that all fields under "ship" be completed, with no written exemption (or "N/A") for the vessel name/documentation if application for an RO only. While that may be allowed from your experience, the form does not leave that option to the applicant. I would be happy to have your help when I need an FCC license. Jack |
Go with the ICOM radio. Have one for about 4 years now and
it is good and reliable. wrote in message ups.com... I would suggest stepping up enough to get DSC. They may not even offer VHF without digital select calling anymore, I haven't checked recently. My VHF is 15-20 years old and still going strong, as are a probable majority of units from the same era. My next VHF will have DSC, and maybe one of the microphones that can change channels etc. All of these VHF radios are relatively inexpensive, as boating gear goes, as long as you stick to the basic functions. It would be hard to wrong with ICOM, Uniden, Raymarine, or other major brands. VHF (thankfully) is usually trouble free. If your boat is a single helm model, save enough money for a decent hand held VHF to go into the spares locker. The odds of both radios crapping out at the same time are almost zero, but you will have more limited range on the hand held. |
On Mon, 14 Mar 2005 11:32:18 -0500, "Jack Painter"
wrote: Is this clear what your first steps should be, ie: obtaining an owner's manual, determining what your radio is capable of, then registering an MMSI via phone and programming or letting a BOAT-US associate do it for you, then hooking up your GPS according to the instruction manuals, and operating your radio in accordance with it's instruction manuals? =========================== It's very clear thanks, but it doesn't really address my concern. My concern is that there doesn't seem to be anyway to test it and see if it's actually working as intended. My 40+ years of experience with things electronic has lead me to believe that nothing should be assumed to work unless it gets tested periodically. |
Jack you are not correct. A third Class is for the person
and it is good for any radio use. I had to have one when I was on a Police Dept. before I could use either the station radio or the radios in the patrol cars and it go where ever I go. All it is is a license that says you are familial with the rules on talking on a radio as to language as to what you can say and what you can not. "Jack Painter" wrote in message news:1cHYd.62360$7z6.6536@lakeread04... "Bruce in Alaska" slid off his stool and shouted: "Jack Painter" wrote: Also, a U.S. vessel that plans to dock (or communicate) at a non-US port of call, must have a restricted radiotelephone operators license. This good for life (of the vessel you own and operate) and also does not involve any exam. The license covers vhf, hf, gmdss and radars with no description of equipments required. It will include applying for an MMSI to be used internationally. Again, jackie is extending information that he doesn't understand....... HEY JACK, How about you "GET A CLUE before you confuse folks with your uninformed information. First: A Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit is for a PERSON not a vessel. It is an "OPERATORs" and a vessel can't be an operator. I know that Bruce. I mentioned the "vessel" because it is for the owner of A VESSEL, and cannot be transferred or used when the licensee goes to another vessel. So it is "for life" only if it remains ON THAT VESSEL. Please grow up or go back to your barstool. Second: A US Flagged vessel, if it is to operate outside US Territorial Waters, AND communicate with non-US Coast Stations, must have a valid Ship Radio Station License issued by the FCC. Here you go mixing up licenses again, forgetting the title and topic of this newsgroup is RECREATIONAL boating. Only a Restricted Operators permit is required for a recreational boater who wants to visit a foreign port. His boat can remain "covered by the rule" which means no station license for VHF-only, and the ROP covers his carriage of the radio, whether he uses it OR NOT, in a foreign port. Third: If, and only if, the vessel has fitted, only VHF Radios and, or, a Marine S or Xband Radar, and does not communicated with non-US Coast Stations, it MAY be covered by the Blanket License issued by the FCC, which covers all such vessels in perpituity, and does not require any action on the owners, or operators parts as far as licensing is concerened. That's called being "covered by the rule" and does not permit a vessel to dock in a foreign port, which is why it's another of your useless comments that serves only the interests of your strange ego. Fourth: /snipped unadulterated blabber .. Fifth: /snipped unadulterated blabber Sixth: /snipped unadulterated blabber Now that we got that straight....... Carry on....... Bruce in alaska who wishes that USCG would refrain from distributing uninformed information....... "Straight" is a concept difficult to apply to your posts. The information I posted is current, accurate, and applies to the questions posted by Wayne B. The rules have changed since the time you claimed to have once been a field-rep for the FCC. Try to remember the "recreational" concept of the newsgroup, please. Best regards, Jack Painter Virginia Beach, Virginia |
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