Offshore Communications and Electronics
USCG Revision to their Watchkeeping frequencies on SSB - 3/12/2013
They have determined that transmission and reception on 2182 kHz and DSC frequency 2187.5 kHz is spotty. Accordingly, they recommend using the next higher frequencies of 4125 kHz and DSC 4207.5 kHz or higher for communication with them.
Digital Selective Calling and Search & Rescue Areas (Ver. 8.01)
Important information on Digital Selective Calling, MMSI, AIS and Search and Rescue areas in the Atlantic and Pacific. In the fast-moving world of marine electronics, this is an important, comprehensive review of how to make the most of your DSC-capable VHF and SSB, and how to use the technology available to maximize your chances for a successful rescue at sea.
Offshore Communications
Memorandum (updated March 2004)
A comprehensive paper titled "Offshore Communications
Memorandum" has been prepared by CCA member Walter R.
Paul. This material has been greatly expanded in the past few
years. The paper contains important information about communications
for vessels going offshore. Major topics include Satellite
Communications, SSB Radio Assistance and Emergencies, Voice
Weather Information, Weather Fax and RTTY Broadcasts, Navtex,
GMDSS, Ship To Shore Communications and E-Mail, and miscellaneous
related information.
Frequencies, Nets, WX Schedules and Tables (updated July 2006)
This paper was previously called the "Appendix to Offshore Communications Memorandum." The update includes major changes to the WX fax schedules for both the US and Europe. Note that the US has reduced the transmitted power of these broadcasts, making them difficult to receive in fringe areas. Some additions to the listing of the nets have been made and a table of conversion factors has been added.
ICOM M700PRO, M710 & M710RT SSB Instructions & Emergency Cards
Also posted are papers about how to use three Icom SSB radios
and, separately, papers enabling those unfamiliar with these
radios to use them in an emergency. The last two pages contain
sample Emergency Cards that should be posted near the radios.
GPS - Range and Bearing Verification
(updated October 2005)
Great reliance is placed on the modern GPS for navigating small
boats. There are occasions, however, where the navigator might
question and want to verify that it is operating satisfactorily.
SSB Transmissions, Connections and
Grounds (updated October 2004)
Assuming the equipment is in good order and there is adequate
grounding for an SSB, two types of radiation will be emitted
when transmitting.
USCG SSB Watchkeeping
Change (updated August 2006)
Effective January 1, 2005, the USCG stopped using duplex frequencies
for watchkeeping and began using the international Safety and
Hailing frequencies used by most countries. The change was
not broadly announced prior to or even after the change, catching
many by surprise. The August update to this paper adds the 24 hour watchkeeping on 8291 kHz at USCG Stations NMN (Chesapeake), NMF (Boston), NMG (New Orleans) and NMA (Miami). All major USCG stations now keep watch on this frequency 24 hours a day, except for Guam which only watches 6215 kHz from 0900 to 2100 hours daily..
Voice
over IP (VOIP) (updated November 2005)
This paper was originally a section in the paper "Some
Observations On Cruising European Waters". Recognizing
that cruisers in other parts of the world would be interested
in using VOIP, it has been broken out into a separate paper
with some modification and expansion.
Sea
Area Designations for Offshore Weather Forecasts (updated
July 2006)
This paper is comprised of official charts of offshore areas
used in weather forecasting.
Material contained on this site has been compiled from information
supplied by members of The Cruising Club of America and from
various other sources. While the Club has no reason to believe
that any of the information is inaccurate, it has not confirmed
the accuracy or completeness of the information and makes no
representation with respect thereto. Users are advised to make
independent confirmation of any information obtained from this
site. |
