Batteries: will be checked for sufficient capacity, security, acceptable
location and that their internal condition is good (either by a high
discharge test for liquid lead acid batteries, or by an off-load/on-load
test (Chapter 11).
Battery charger: the charging capacity, voltage/current indication,
method of control (automatic/manual) and visual/audible alarms will
be checked.
Emergency lighting: there should be adequate emergency lighting
for the radio installation - supplied from the reserve source of energy
(batteries/generator).VHF radio telephone equipment...
All VHF Radio Telephones that are part of the GMDSS installation
will be checked to ensure that:- Type/serial number is as previously recorded (or is in line with any
licence amendments). - Units are type approved, CE-marked or 'wheel-marked'
- Main and reserve energy supply is available and connected.
Current drawn from the reserve power supply is as expected. - On-air performance (usually with a coast station) is satisfactory.
- There is no adverse electrical/magnetic interference from other
equipment. - Transmitter output power is adequate.
- Antennas and antenna cables are in good physical condition and not
displaying a high Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) when metered
by the inspector.
VHF DSC controllers/modems
All VHF DSC controllers/modems will be checked to ensure that:- Type and serial numbers are as previously recorded or are otherwise
in line with licence amendments.
Units are type approved, CE-marked or wheel-marked - and
otherwise comply with IMO requirements.
Main and reserve energy supply is available and connected.
Maximum reserve current is as expected.
The MMSI is correct for the vessel concerned.
Position updating is available and whether automatic or manual
(passenger vessels must have automatic position updating).
Automatic distress acknowledgement, if available, is disabled.
On-air checks with a local coastguard/coast station are satisfactory.
202 THE NAUTICAL INSTITUTE