Some DSC-Equipped VHFs Failing

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Just tweeted on @mtwguides and @mtwguidesECHART

MTW:ECHART Some DSC-equipped VHFs switching from working channels without warning. Info and list of models affected at http://bit.ly/bAthy0

Best, Mark
 
Mark,

Thanks for the info, however I think the use of the term 'failing' is misleading. The radios are not actually 'failing' or defective, but rather there is a problem with the operating system of the radios that could cause a problem.

Here is the actual text from the USCG.

*** Special Notice Regarding U.S. Coast Guard MARINE SAFETY ALERT - AUTOMATIC CHANNEL
SWITCHING ON DSC-EQUIPPED RADIOS. ***

Certain models of Digital Selective Calling (DSC) equipped VHF maritime radios will automatically switch from a working channel to Channel 16 upon receipt of a DSC distress alert, distress alert acknowledgment and other DSC calls in which a channel number has been designated. A navigation safety hazard may consequently occur if the radio is being used to maintain a listening watch or to communicate on the designated bridge-to-bridge radiotelephone or vessel traffic services (VTS) monitoring channel. You may view updated information including a listing of manufacturers of radios believed to be affected by this Safety Alert.
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I discussed this feature with Standard Horizon tech support to determine if the auto channel switching feature could be switched off. Their answer was no, not on their VHF radios.

Refer to the link in Mark's post for more info.
 
Hi Larry,

I hear you ... BUT ... I guess if I think I'm working a channel --- say negotiating a passing situation, transfer, landing, etc. --- and the VHF switches "automatically" (unilaterally) from my working station to 16 ... well, that certainly is a LARGE failure of my expectations! [smile]

Just thought folks would like to know. I'm sure they'll fix this in the future.

Best, Mark
 
Larry H stated,
Mark,

Thanks for the info, however I think the use of the term 'failing' is misleading. The radios are not actually 'failing' or defective, but rather there is a problem with the operating system of the radios that could cause a problem.
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I know I'm splitting hairs here and I'm sure most if not all people don't care, but.... I work for an embedded operating system software company and this doesn't sound like a operating system defect, but an application (sits on top of the OS) feature gone awry.

I'm done.
 
Sounds like yet another good reason to have a handheld radio for those bridge to bridge communications, etc. I agree that this is not a failure, the radio is working as designed, the design is just not perfect.
 
Also a good reason to have two radios--since one should be channel 16 and the other on a working channel--in our Gulf Coast area: channel 13. A hand held radio---in my opinion--(essential aboard all boats, for emergency use, for example if you have to abandon ship or go overboard) will suffice. I happen to have two fixed and two hand helds. (one hand held for each of my self and wife.)-

If you get a DSC call, immediately check the other DSC radio to be sure that it is on the working frequency. This is just good proceedure--not a defect.
 
I agree that this feature can be either annoying or dangerous, depending on the situation.

There have already been docking accidents where the pilot lost communications with the assist tugs due to DSC radio auto-switching.

Lets all be aware of this so we can anticipate what will happen if we receive a DSC emergency (distress) call.

As Bob and Barry said, having a handheld or non-DSC radio set to the 'other' channel that needs monitoring is the easiest solution.
 
MTW:ECHART Some DSC-equipped VHFs switching from working channels without warning. Info and list of models affected at http://bit.ly/bAthy0

Best, Mark
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Mark, thanks for the nice link. Great info there. Good news too --- Raymarine (some) have switchable auto channel change feature.

Basic Question Here:

Does the DSC function only work IF the MMSI number has been entered :?:

Harvey
SleepyC :moon
 
Harvey,

I would like to know the answer too, so I have sent your question to Standard Horizon tech support. I will post when I have an answer.
 
Early in the experimental phases of DSC, I heard of responses to radios without MMSI numbers, so I suspect that the radio will transmit (unless that has been changed). But, without the number and lat Long, co-ordinates, the response will be far less than optimal. The question is more do you want to get the free MMSI number or the official one from FCC for ships radio license--which costs $160.

If you are going to Canada and push the DSC button, as I understand it, you better have a license and FCC MMSI number.
 
Brats,

I sent the following questions to Standard Horizon tech support and received the indicated replies.

Larry

Thank you for contacting Standard Horizon.
Please find answers to your inquiries below:

1. Will these radios receive a DSC distress call without having a MMSI
number programmed into the receiving radio?

[SI] Yes the radio can receive DSC without a MMSI programmed

2. Will these radios transmit a DSC distress call without having a MMSI
number programmed into the sending radio?

[SI] No the radio cannot transmit DSC calls (distress, All Ship,
Individual, Position Polling and Group) without a MMSI programmed

To register for a MMSI (Free) click on the link below:
www.boatus.com/mmsi

Best regards,

Scott Iverson
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These answers apply specifically to Standard Horizon VHF DSC radio models GX2100 and GX1500S. Other radios may be different.
 
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