Here is some info on MMSI for those of you who are interested or are not aware of it. After reading this am I correct in assuming that once communciation is established between boats it no longer is a "private" connection?
Frequently Asked Questions About DSC Radios
1. What does MMSI stand for?
Maritime Mobile Service Identity
2. What is MMSI?
A unique 9 digit number that is assigned to a DSC radio station
3. What does DSC stand for?
Digital Selective Calling
4. What is DSC?
A new radio technology allowing enhanced distress radio messages to be sent digitally.
5. Is my radio capable of sending a DSC message?
Maybe. Radios with DSC capability have been on the U.S. market for several years. Since 1999, the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) began requiring new fixed mount models introduced in the U.S. to be equipped with the DSC feature. Minimally, DSC radios are equipped with single-button emergency transmission capability.
6. What does MMSI do?
It primarily registers the boat information in the U.S. Coast Guard's national distress database for use in emergency situations.
7. What are some advantages of a DSC equipped radio?
DSC radios have a one-button emergency transmit button that sends the vessel's unique MMSI number. In addition, if the DSC equipped radio is linked to a GPS or Loran unit, the distress call will include the vessel's position. Should the skipper become incapacitated, the radio will continue sending the mayday. In addition, a DSC equipped vessel with an MMSI number can make a "private" hailing call to another DSC-equipped vessel. Only the vessel being called will receive the hail.
8. Does the U.S. Coast Guard monitor DSC maydays?
Not yet and it may not until 2005 or 2006. However, commercial ships are required to monitor the DSC-reserved Channel 70 for distress calls and have relayed maydays to the Coast Guard.
9. Is there a fee to receive an MMSI number?
BoatU.S., in cooperation with the FCC and the USCG, has agreed to staff and budget this service. BoatU.S. is offering this registration service free of charge to all recreational boaters.
10. How can I register to get a free MMSI number?
Several ways: Go to
www.boatus.com and click on the "MMSI" button to 1) register immediately on-line. 2) Down load and print a registration form. Fax or mail the completed form to the BoatU.S. MMSI program at (703) 461-2840 or mail to MMSI Program 880 S. Pickett St. Alexandria, VA 22304 3) Call (800) 563-1536 to ask questions or to request a registration form.
11. Why has BoatU.S. elected to absorb the cost of MMSI registration?
MMSI and DSC have the potential to save many lives as the Coast Guard installs their nationwide communications upgrade by 2005. BoatU.S. wants to insure that recreational boaters have reasonable access the system. BoatU.S. has advocated safe boating from its founding in 1966.
12. Is an FCC VHF license required?
No, recreational boats under 65' operating in U.S. waters no longer require a VHF license.
13. Does the Coast Guard plan to cease monitoring Channel 16 once GMDSS is operational in the U.S. after 2005-6?
No. The Coast Guard has no plans to stop monitoring Channel 16 at any time in the foreseeable future.
14. Is there a channel reserved for DSC?
Yes, channel 70 is to be used exclusively for DSC.
15. As a recreational boater, do I have to maintain a watch on Channel 70?
No.
16. What is "private calling" as related to DSC?
It is in effect "private hailing" of another vessel whose MMSI number is known to you. Once contact is established between the vessels, they are automatically switched to the preselected "working channel", and the "privacy" ends at that point, meaning that the transmission (conversation) can be heard by any other vessel monitoring that channel.
17. I thought MMSI numbers were supposed to begin with a "366". I received mine and it has a different prefix.
The first digit or two identifies one of the four kinds of Maritime Mobile Service Identities:
Ship station identities
Group ship station identities
Coast station identities
Group coast station identities
For a complete breakdown and explanation of the digits visit the following USCG web site:
http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/marcomms/gmdss/mmsi.htm
18. I have two boats, in different states and each has a DSC capable VHF radio. Can I get two MMSI numbers?
Yes, in fact YOU MUST if you wish the system to work. In a distress situation, it is vital to identify the particular vessel, home port, etc.
19. I bought a boat with a Ship's Station License and MMSI. Can I continue to use the call sign and MMSI that came with it?
No, that information applies to someone else. You must reregister.
20. I have an FCC license that is still valid. I am buying a new DSC capable VHF radio. Do I have to transfer the license or something to cover the new radio?
If you already have a valid FCC license, you should contact the FCC to get an MMSI. The BoatU.S. registry is intended for those not licensed or required to be FCC licensed.
21. I am a Canadian boater with a DSC radio. Can I register at BoatU.S.?
No. The MMSI number contains a country code and the BoatU.S. numbers are to be used for U.S. vessels.
Thought this might help
Soapy Joe
22' Cruiser
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