additional concepts and formulas 315
- Select from the MMSI menu: Th is shows all boats we’ve programmed into our
radio, listed by MMSI number. Select one MMSI number. Press Enter to go to the
next menu. - Choose a working channel: Choose one of the working channels from the menu
listing. Th is clears the airways for other DSC users. Press Enter to make the call. - Call receipt and reply by other boat: Th e other boat receives a tone, notifying it
of an incoming DSC call. It replies by pressing Enter (or its radio’s reply button).
Once it acknowledges receipt, DSC automatically shift s to your selected working
frequency on both radios.
HOW TO MAKE A DISTRESS CALL WITH DSC
DSC sends a preformatted distress message to DSC-equipped stations, vessels, and
Rescue Coordination Centers. The message broadcasts automatically and continu-
ously, requiring no user action. If you’re incapacitated, this feature alone could very
well save your life and those of your crewmembers.
- Make a lifesaving link: Prepare beforehand. Link your DSC-equipped radio to a
GPS and the distress message continuously sends an updated distress position and
position time. In most emergencies, you want to have time for handling the problem
at hand. Make this link now, ahead of time, to save you valuable time in a crisis. - Lift red Distress cover and press button: Locate the red cover labeled Distress on
the radio panel. Th is prevents accidental Mayday transmission. Lift the cover. Press
and hold the button until the display stops fl ashing (about 5 to 6 seconds). Th is
sends a preformatted distress message showing your MMSI. If you haven’t linked
your DSC to your GPS, go to step 3. - For DSC radios not linked to a GPS: For units not linked to GPS, rescue units need
your position in order to start moving toward you. Manually enter your latitude
and longitude (see your equipment manual on procedure). Push the Enter key to
transmit your location to DSC-equipped vessels and stations.