SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 1

RADIO OPERATOR
SHORT RANGE
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SECTION A.
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE OF RADIOCOMMUNICATIONS IN MARITIME MOBILE SERVICE.
A.1 General principles and basic characteristics of the maritime mobile service.
A.1.1- Definitions and types of stations

Administration
Every government department or service responsible for the fulfillment of obligations
derivatives of the Constitution and the Convention of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
Radio channel
A radio channel is a radio frequency or a pair of radio frequencies, with a purpose or
specific tasks to which a number is assigned to facilitate and simplify their identification.
Emission
Radiation produced by a radioelectric transmission system.
Station
One or more transmitters or receivers, or a combination of both, including the facilities.
necessary accessories to ensure a radio communication service in a specific location.
Coastal station
Maritime Mobile Service Earth Station.
Boat station
Mobile station of the Maritime Mobile Service aboard a ship that is not a vessel or
rescue device, and that it is not permanently tied.
Embarkation station or rescue device
Mobile station of the Maritime or Aeronautical Service, intended exclusively for the needs of the
shipwrecked and installed on a boat, raft or any other rescue device.

Duplex exploitation
Radio channel that has a pair of frequencies: one for transmission and another for
reception.

Example: VHF channel 16 is a simplex channel; it transmits and receives at 156.800 MHz. In contrast
Channel 28, which is duplex, has 162,000 MHz for the transmission of the coastal station and
157,400 MHz for the boat.

Semi-duplex exploitation
Simplex mode at one end of the circuit and duplex at the other.
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Simplex exploitation
Radio channel that has a single frequency for both transmission and reception.

Radio waves or hertzian waves

Electromagnetic waves with a frequency lower than 3,000 GHz, which propagate in space without
artificial guide.

Radiation
Transport of energy in the form of radio waves. Energy that propagates in a medium in
form of radioelectric waves.

Radio
General term that applies to the use of radio waves.

Radiobeacon
Radione navigation transmitter that radiates vertically a beam of special configuration, intended for
provide data on the position of a vessel or aircraft.

Radiocommunication
All telecommunication carried out by means of radio waves.

Radiotelephony
Voice or sound transmission through radio waves.

Radiotelephone
Device that allows radio communication by means of radio waves.

maritime mobile service

Mobile service between coastal stations and boat stations or between boat stations.

Telecommunications
All transmission of signs, signals, writings, images, sounds, or information of any
nature, by thread, radioelectricity, optical media or other electromagnetic systems.

RADIO FREQUENCIES

Radio frequency
It is the number of cycles per second of a radio wave; its unit is the Hertz (Hz), and its multiples...
the causes are the following:
KILOHERCIO (Khz.) = 1.000 Hz, MEGAHERCIO (Mhz) = 1.000 Khz., y GIGAHERCIO (Ghz) = 1.000 Mhz.
(They can also be found abbreviated as: Kcs, Mcs, and Gcs).

Radiofrequency (RF)
Term used to refer to electromagnetic waves whose frequencies are comprised
between 20,000 Hz and 300 GHz. This frequency range is called the 'radioelectric spectrum'.
(Radiofrequency = radio wave = electromagnetic wave)

Graphical representation of a radio wave, of the wavelength and of the very high frequency (VHF) range.
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Wavelength(λ)
It is the 'distance occupied in space by the trough and crest of a certain frequency, in the form
Thus, the higher the frequency, the shorter the wavelength will be and vice versa.
Radio spectrum
The radio spectrum is known as the range that includes audible frequencies and the
visible frequencies, it includes all communication systems, such as
of maritime communications, broadcasting, public service ones (police, civil protection,
firefighting, aeronautical, radio amateurs, etc). This spectrum is subdivided into nine
frequency bands, as detailed below:
CLASSIFICATION OF WAVES BY THEIR FREQUENCY
General Subdivision of the Radioelectric Spectrum

Denomination sIgLAs Frequency margins

Medium Frequencies OM/MF* 300 and 3,000 Khz.

High Frequencies OC/HF* 3 and 30 MHz

Very High Frequencies VHF 30 and 300 MHz.

Ultra High Frequencies UHF 300 and 3,000 MHz

Super High Frequencies SHF 3 and 30 GHz

As far as this subdivision concerns the equipment installed on board recreational vessels,
we find that they operate between the following margins:

EQUIPMENT USED IN THE DIFFERENT FREQUENCY RANGES

EQuIPOs sIgLAs FREQUENCY GAMMA

Medium wave OM/MF 1605 and 3000 kHz

Onda Corta OC/HF* 3000 and 27,500 Khz.

Very high frequencies VHF 156 and 174 MHz.

Radio beacons UHF 406 MHz

Satellite equipment UHF 1.6 GHz

Radar Responders SHF 9 GHz

Abbreviations in Spanish and English, respectively; the rest only have an abbreviation in the second language.

PROPAGATION OF RADIOELECTRIC WAVES

HIGH HIGHS
Decreases or Increases
FREQUENCIES Frequencies
FREQUENCIES

VERY HIGH FREQUENCIES

SILENCE ZONE
FORHIGH
FREQUENCIES
ALTAS
FREQUENCIES
DOUBLE
JUMP
FREQUENCIES
MEDIA

EARTH WAVES CRUST

TRANSMITTER ANTENNA
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MARITIME RADIO COMMUNICATION CENTERS (CCR's)

Since October 2009, the company Abertis Telecom has taken over the provision of the 'Communication Service.
"Emergency Signals for the Safety of Human Life at Sea". This service includes communications-
safety and emergency communications for the different maritime navigation areas, as well as the
Establishment and maintenance of the Coastal Station Network and Communication Centers
Marine Radio.
The Abertis Telecom service includes permanent listening CCR A
CCR
I am in the maritime emergency channels 24 hours a day.
CORUÑA
BILBAO

day and the 364 days of the year, in addition to broadcasting the bulletins
meteorological and navigation warnings.
CCR
VALENCIA

The new network implemented by Abertis Telecom includes three CCR

MALAGA
types of centers:
- 6 CCRs located in Bilbao, La Coruña, Málaga, Valencia, CCR

Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas From these centers

Tenerife

of control the operators - 12 per center - carry out the

you listen to 365 x 24 of the emergency channels. Map of the Communication Centers
Maritime radiocommunications (CCR's).
Likewise, 35 Coastal Stations operate in the band of
VHF to cover a strip of coastal waters of about
minimum 35 miles.
Another 9 Coastal Stations operate in the Medium Wave (OM/MF) band with coverage of
up to 150 miles.

Finally, the network is completed with a Short Wave Transmission-Reception Station with coverage.
of greater reach that includes the African coastline, an area with a strong presence of Spanish fishing fleets.

ZONE A1 OF VHF RADIO TELEPHONE COVERAGE

CHANNEL CANAL
COASTAL STATION Coastal Station
DuPLEX SIMPLEX DuPLEX SIMPLEX

PASSAGES 27 6 CARTAGENA 27 6
BILBAO 26 74 Cape La Nao 85 74
SANTANDER 24 72 CASTELLÓN 28 72
PEN POINT 27 6 TARRAGONA 24 6
NAVIA 62 74 BARCELONA 60 74
Cabo Ortegal 2 72 BEGUR 23 6
CORUÑA 26 6 Cadaqués 27 72
FINISTERRE 22 74 MENORCA 85 6
VIGO 20 6 PALMA 7 72
THE GUARD 82 72 IBIZA 3 6
Huelva 26 6 LAPALMA 20 6
CÁDIZ 28 74 IRON 23 74
TARIFF 83 6 GOMERA 24 6
MALAGA 26 72 TENERIFE 27 72
MOTRIL 81 74 THE PALMS 26 74
CABO DE GATA 24 72 Fuerteventura 22 6
YAIZA 3 74
MELILLA 25 6
REEF 25 72
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EMISSION OF METEOROLOGICAL BULLETINS IN VHF

SCHEDULE OF BROADCAST BROADCAST SCHEDULE
STATION OF THE BULLETINS STATION OF THE BULLETINS
CANAL CHANNEL
COsTERA METEOROLOGICAL COsTERA Meteorologicals
HORA (uTC) HOUR (uTC)
PASSAGES 27 CARTAGENA 27
BILBAO 26 Cape Nao 85
08:40 12:40 20:10
SANTANDER 24 CASTELLÓN 28
Cabo Peñas 27 TARRAGONA 24
NAVIA 62 BARCELONA 60
09:10 14:10 21:10
Cabo Ortegal 2 BEGUR 23
CORUÑA 26 CADAQUÉS 27
08:40 12:40 20:10
FINISTERRE 22 MENORCA 85
VIGO 20 PALMA 7
THE GUARD 82 IBIZA 3
Huelva 26 LAPALMA 20
Cádiz 28 IRON 23
RATE 83 GOMERA 24
MALAGA 26 TENERIFE 27
08:33 11:33 20:03 08:33 13:33 20:33
MOTRIL 81 THE PALMS 26
Gata Cape 24 Fuerteventura 22
YAIZA 3
MELILLA 25
REEF 25

Transmission of Notices to Navigators in VHF

Navigational Notices Navigational Notices
STATION STATION
vHF vHF
COsTERA COsTERA
TIME (UTC) TIME (UTC)
PASSAGES CARTAGENA
BILBAO 10:03 19:33 Cape Nao 10:45 19:03
SANTANDER CASTELLÓN
Cape Peñas TARRAGONA
NAVIA BARCELONA
10:15 18:33
CABO ORTEGAL BEGUR
A Coruña 09:45 19:03 CADAQUÉS
FINISTERRE MENORCA
VIGO PALMA 10:45 19:03
THE GUARD IBIZA
Huelva LAPALMA
CADIZ IRON
TARIFF GOMERA
Málaga TENERIFE
10:03 18:03 09:40 19:03
MOTRIL THE PALMS
GATA CAP Fuerteventura
YAIZA
MELILLA
LAVA

Maritime Rescue Centers

In our country, this public service is provided by the State Society for Rescue and Safety.
Maritime, assigned to the Ministry of Development through the General Directorate of Merchant Marine.

Its function is to respond to emergencies that may arise at sea in order to save
save human lives, enhance navigation safety, assist traffic and protect the
marine environment.
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To respond to these tasks, the Society has Rescue Coordination Centers.

(CCs) strategically distributed along the entire Spanish coastline, as well as rescue ships.
fast intervention vessels, and rescue helicopters. In the attached map, you can
see the distribution of the CCs, as well as the resources available to each of them.

DEPLOYMENT OF CENTERS AND UNITS OF MARITIME RESCUE (2010)

21 coordinating centers, 4 multipurpose ships, 12 rescue ships,

53 fast intervention vessels - 33 of 21 m. and 20 of 15 m. - 9
helicopters and 4 surveillance planes are the means available to Sal Areas of responsibility and search and
Maritime funding to develop its tasks. Maritime Rescue

On the other hand, although in the same line, the Society, also
of its own human and material resources, has the
from other collaborating Institutions or Organizations region-
sales, local or international.
As part of its commitment to enhance security and
risk prevention at sea, the CCs maintain listening
permanent on channel 16 VHF, as well as in the
OM frequency of 2.182 kHz, reinforcing if possible the one already
they carry out the coastal stations.
A rescue ship tows a
In this same commitment, in addition to being responsible for wrecked sailboat in rough weather
under its responsibility the Spanish NAVTEX System, the Cen-
They issue weather bulletins on the VHF band.

Note.- Annually, corresponding with the beginning

of summer, Maritime Rescue publishes a series of intere-
free health publications, which are expressly
aimed at recreational navigation in its various aspects,
including water sports.

Its distribution through yacht clubs, ports of-

sports, gyms and nautical schools are of great importance
Search and rescue (SAR) air services are
measure to reduce the high level of incidents related to boating especially important in the tasks of
recreation provokes during the summer period. recognition and rescue
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RADIO MEDICAL SERVICE

This service is provided by the Ministry of Labor and Security
Social through the Social Institute of the Navy (Center
Spanish Radiomedic). Its service is free and not
fees apply for these communications through the
coastal stations of the national territory
Spanish ships must indicate the type of first aid kit that
they are on board and adapt to what is established in the health guide
A BORDO, published by the Social Institute of the Navy.
In case of emergency, the appropriate signal may be used and
if not required, it will always be convenient, after the call,
Hospital Ship Juan de la Cosa of the Insti- to announce to the coastal station operator that it is about
Maritime Social Tutorial (ISM)
a 'Medical Service'.
The rest, except for the priority given to communication,
It will have the same characteristics as a conference call.
common; that is, the patient or the person speaking for him,
will directly put you in touch with the on-duty doctor in the
Radiomedical Center.

This service is also provided by coastal stations of

other countries.

Maritime Salvage and the National Network of Stations

The coasts are the two large "ears" of the national system.
of maritime radiocommunications.

The automation, through LSD, of calls

of help and urgency, constitute a progress without
precedents in the field of communications at sea
for its speed and efficiency, and adds an extra layer of security
enormous value for recreational boating.
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A.1.2.- Identities of maritime mobile service.

The identities of the mobile maritime service known internationally as MMsI, (English acronym
Maritime Mobile Service Identity), consists of a series of nine digits that identify,
unequivocally, to the ship stations and to the coastal stations.
As stated, the MMsI configuration includes only numbers that are structured in a dose.
three groups of identifying numbers, depending on the type of radio station.
Formation of the MMsI
ElMMsI is composed of a set of 9 digits that are transmitted automatically between
radio stations in order to unequivocally identify ship stations, to the stations
coastal, to the groups of boats and to the groups of coastal stations.
Unlike the call sign, the configuration of the MMsI includes only numbers that
endorsement structures three groups of identifying numbers, depending on the type of radio station:

Group of Identifying Digits of the Station Type

It is the group of digits that identifies the type of station (ship, group of ships, coastal or group
of coastal stations) and they are the following:
• For boat stations: no digits are included.
• Boat groups (fleets): a zero '0' is included as the first digit of the MMSI.
• For coastal stations or groups of coastal stations: two zeros are included, '00'
as the first two digits of the MMSI.

2. GROUP OF MARITIME IDENTIFICATION DIGITS (MID)

Maritime Identification Digits (MID) are the digits of the MMSI that identify the
nationality of a radio station.
It is composed of three digits and Spain has assigned MID 224 and 225.
For informational purposes only, other MIDs of countries whose vessels frequently visit are indicated.
our coastline: Portugal (263), France (226, 227, and 228), Italy (247), and Germany (211 and 218)

3. GROUP OF DIGITS FOR SELF-IDENTIFICATION

They are the specific and distinctive numbers of each radio station, whether it is a ship or a coastal station.

They form a set of 4, 5, or 6 digits (depending on the type of radio station) until completing the total.
9 digits of the MMSI of all radio stations.
Configuration of the MMsI
Finally, the MMSI, according to the type of radio station, is configured as follows:

• Boat stations: the MID followed by the corresponding series of 6 numbers.

(224834512 and 225901435, would be the MMSI of two Spanish ships).

• boat groups: a 0 (zero) followed by the MID and the series of 5 numbers that correspond to it.
(022472435, would correspond to a group of Spanish ships).

• Coastal stations or a group of coastal stations: two 0s (zeros), followed by the MID and
from the series of 4 numbers that correspond to them. (002256135, would identify a station or a
group of Spanish coastal stations.
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EXAMPLE OF MMsI OF THE DIFFERENT RADIO STATIONS

MID PROPER NUMBER

IDENTIFIER
TIPO DE EsTACIóN RADIO SERIES OF 6, 5 or 4 MMsI
TYPE OF STATION Nationality
DIGITS

SHIP - 224 387421 224387421

BOAT GROUP 0 225 29135 022529135

COSTERA-GROUP COASTAL 00 224 1963 002241963

The General Directorate of the Merchant Marine (Ministry of Development) is the state agency
responsible for the assignment of the MMIs, both for Spanish ships and vessels, as well as
for the coastal stations. However, the MMSI corresponding to smaller vessels
of 24 meters in length, they are directly assigned by the maritime authorities.
All VHF equipment that has the techniques of LLsD and the satellite radio beacons
406 MHz must be programmed with the MMSI assigned to the vessel.

A.1.3.- The global maritime safety and security system (sMssM).

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a specialized agency of the
United Nations that promotes cooperation between States and the transportation industry to improve
maritime security and to prevent marine pollution. Some IMO initiatives have
including amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and
to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL 73/78). Its headquarters is
located in London, United Kingdom.
The SOLAS Convention, which has been revised and updated several times, later came under the auspices
from the International Maritime Organization of the United Nations (IMO), which took on the responsibility
world maritime navigation since it began its activities in 1959. Although the prevention of
Accidents are the main objective of the Organization, the IMO has also focused its efforts.
in the development of integrated global systems that respond when a
maritime emergency. Two important examples of this are the international convention on
Search and rescue at sea (SAR Convention) and the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System
MARITIME SECURITY (SMSM).

Basic Structure of the SMSM

SPACE NETWORK
LAND NETWORK SYSTEMS
RESCUE COORDINATION CENTERS
INMARSAT YCOSPAS - SARSAT
MARITIME RADIO COMMUNICATION CENTERS
LAND COASTAL STATIONS
EMISSION CONTROL CENTERS

SHIP STATIONS
RADIOBEACONS RESPONDERS
THE RADAR
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Basic concept.
The SMSSM is essentially a global network of automated emergency communications for
ships that are at sea.
The basic concept is that the search and rescue authorities on land, as well as all
The ships that are in the vicinity of the ship in distress can be alerted.
quickly, through terrestrial and satellite communication techniques, from a situation of
danger so that they can assist in the coordinated search operations and
rescue with minimal delay.
In addition to emergency communications, the system also allows for maintaining communications of
urgency and safety and disseminate information relating to maritime safety, including radio bulletins
nautical and weather bulletins.
In other words, every vessel, regardless of the zone in which it navigates, will be able to carry out the
communication functions considered essential for the safety of the vessel itself and others
they navigate in the same area.

Unlike the conventional system in which the equipment that a vessel had to carry
it depended on its tonnage, in the global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS)the equipment
What a vessel is required to carry depends on the zone or zones in which it operates.
navigation. Thus, a vessel that conducts coastal navigations should only go
equipped with a VHF set. If the ship sails beyond that distance to approximately the
150 miles, you must then be equipped with a Medium Wave (MF) system. And if it goes beyond that
distance, it must be equipped with a satellite communication system from Inmarsat or with equipment
shortwave radio communications (HF).
To this end, the IMO has divided the globe into four maritime zones, A1, A2, A3, and A4 depending on the
distance from the coast and the range of the established radiocommunication equipment in
earth.

Navigation zone 4 and its relation to the national maritime zone A1.
For the purposes of the radio equipment that recreational boats must be equipped with, the areas of
navigation for which a Recreational Craft Skipper can currently navigate is defined
and are specified as follows:

ZONE NAVIGATION AREA

ZONE 4 Zone between the coast and the parallel line drawn 12 miles from it.
Navigation in which the vessel does not stray more than 5 miles from a sheltered area or beach
ZONE 5
accessible.
Navigating in which the vessel does not stray more than 2 miles from a shelter or beach
ZONE 6
accessible.
Navigation for protected coastal waters, ports, anchorages, sheltered bays, and waters
ZONE 7
generally protected.

Por su parte y a los efectos del Reglamento por el que se regulan las Radiocomunicaciones marítimas de
Spanish civil vessels (Royal Decree 1185/2006 of October 16) are considered maritime areas A1, A2 and.
A3, the navigation areas in which there is coverage from at least one national coastal station.
equipped with maritime radio communication transmission and reception equipment, and that carry out a
Continuous listening on maritime safety frequencies of metric waves (VHF), hectometric (MF)
and decametric (HF), of radiotelephony and/or LLSD.
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A.1.4.- The Cospas-Sarsat system

COsPAs = Russian acronym for Space System for Ships in Danger.
sARsAT = from English, 'Search and Rescue Satellite Aided Tracking'.

BASIC CONCEPT AND INFOGRAPHIC OF THE COSPAS-SARSAT SATELLITE SYSTEM (NOAA)

2
SYSTEM TERMINAL
SPACIAL 3 PLACE OF
USER

4
CENTER
OF CONTROL
1 OF EMISSIONS
ACTIVATION OF
THE RADIOBEACON

5
COORDINATING CENTER
SEARCH AND
SALVATION

Image of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

COsPAs-sARsAT is a space system dedicated to detecting the emissions emitted by Location Radio Beacons.
Incidents (RLS) at a frequency of 406 MHz. These signals, captured by the network of satellites that configure it, are retransmitted to
ground receiving stations where, after their process, they send the results to the Search and Rescue Coordination Centers, with which
that the rescue operations begin.
1. Activation of the radio beacon (RLS).
The signals emitted are received by the network satellites, which retransmit the information received to the stations.
receivers on land known as 'LOCAL USER TERMINALS' (LUT).
3. The TLUs process the information, and after obtaining the data from the RLS (position, nature of the danger, and identification), they trans-
to the “EMISSION CONTROL CENTERS” (CCM) associated.
4. Upon receiving this information, the EMISSION CONTROL CENTERS generate alerts that, along with the data of the ra-
diobalizas, send to the COORDINATING CENTER FOR SEARCH AND RESCUE (Maritime Rescue Center), responsible
of the area where the incident occurred.
This last center is the one that definitely activates the emergency, arranging what is necessary for the rescue.

Elements that make up the system and their definition:

spatial segment
It is composed of two types of satellites: some are of 'low polar orbit' (LEOsAR-Low System)
Earth Orbit Search and Rescue-) and the seconds are of the type 'geostationary'
Orbiting Search and Rescue.
The first describe their orbits over the poles at an altitude between 700 and 1,000.
km, investing approximately 100 minutes to complete each of the orbits. The 'field
of vision" that they can have, is about 6,000 km wide and, depending on the maximum
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 13

the angle of elevation at which they cross a certain

visible sky sector, they come to be above the horizon
up to 15 minutes. Its low altitude and the way they orbit,
they achieve that the intervals between successive passes are
relatively short, and that its coverage, over a period
of fixed time, reaching the entire planet.
These satellites, besides acting as repeaters of the
radio beacons, retransmitting their signals to the station or
ground stations that at that moment have "in sight"
(real-time location), they process and store the signals
received, transmitting the results to the next one or ones
stations on land that appear on its horizon.
The seconds, located over the Atlantic and Indian oceans
and Pacific, orbit at a height of about 36,000 km above the
Ecuador, achieving continuous coverage that encompasses everything.
the planet, except for the Polar Regions.
Like the first ones, they act as repeaters of
the radio beacons, with the particularity that, in addition to
the constant and great coverage they provide, these
seconds always have one or more stations "in sight" LEOSAR Satellite (Low Earth Orbit Search
and Rescue) of the COSPAS-SARSAT system
land. Photo: NOAA

land segment
This segment consists of the network of ground-based receiving stations, referred to as
Local User Terminals (LuT) and the Centers of
Emission Control (CCM), in English Mission Control Centre (MCC), associated with the Terminals
User Locations.
The Local User Terminals are the stations where the signals from the RLS are received.
retransmitted by satellites, and where the same are processed, sending the results (position,
nature of the danger and identification of the radiobeacon to the Emissions Control Centers.
The Emission Control Centers are those that, upon receiving the information, generate the alerts that
they transmit to the Maritime Rescue Centers, along with the data from the radio beacons (RLS)
received from the TLUs.

A.1.5.- Types of communications and their functions.

Emergency Communications
generalities.
Emergency communications are based on the use of terrestrial radio communications on waves.
hectometric, decametric and metric and communications carried out using satellite techniques.
Emergency communications will have absolute priority over any other type of communication.
The following shall apply:
a) The emergency alert is a selective digital call (LLsD) that uses the call format of
help in the bands used for terrestrial radiocommunications, or a message format
of help, in which case it will be retransmitted through space stations.
b) The call for help is the procedure of returning to the initial text.
c) The emergency message is the text or voice procedure following the alert or the call.
of help.
d) The retransmission of the distress alert is a transmission in LLSD on behalf of another station.
14 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

e) The retransmission of the emergency call is the initial voice or text procedure of a
station that is not in danger.

The distress call will be sent over the designated distress and safety frequencies.
hectometric, decametric, and metric wave bands for radiotelephony.
The alert or call for help and the subsequent messages can only be transmitted by order.
from the person responsible for the ship, the aircraft or any other vehicle carrying the station
mobile or the mobile ground station.
The stations that receive an alert or a distress call transmitted by the frequencies
of rescue and safety in the hectometric, decametric, and metric wave bands will cease
immediately all transmissions that may disturb the rescue traffic will be prepared for the
subsequent emergency traffic.
The transmissions by radiotelephony will be done slowly, separating the words and
pronunciando claramente cadauna de ellas, a fin de facilitarsutranscripción.

Emergency and security communications

These communications are as follows:
a) Nautical and meteorological notices and urgent information;
b) Ship-to-ship communications regarding navigational safety;
c) Notifications of information related to the ships;
d) Support communications for search and rescue operations;
e) Other urgent and safety messages; and
f) Communications related to navigation, movements, and the needs of the ships
weather observation messages intended for an official meteorological service.
Emergency communications will take priority over any other type of communications.
except for those in distress.

Security communications will take priority over any other type of

communications, except for emergency and urgent.
The following terms are used:
The urgent announcement is a selective digital call that uses a format of
emergency call in the bands used for land-based radio communications or a format
of urgent message, in which case it is transmitted through space stations.
The emergency call is the initial text or voice procedure.
c) The urgency message is the subsequent text or voice procedure.

In a terrestrial system, emergency communications consist of:

An announcement, transmitted via digital selective calls,
followed by the call and the urgent message transmitted via radiotelephony.
The announcement of the urgent message will be made on one or more of the distress call frequencies.
specified security, using either the digital selective calling format and the format of
emergency call or, in the case of being unavailable, the radio telephone procedures and the
emergency signal.
Si el mensaje de urgencia va a transmitirse por el servicio móvil marítimo por satélite, no habrá que
make a separate announcement.
The boat stations are not equipped to use digital selective calling procedures.
They will be able to announce a call and an emergency message transmitting the emergency signal by
 SHORT-RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 15

radiotelephony on the frequency 156.8 MHz (channel 16), taking into account that it is possible that others
stations outside the range of metric waves do not receive the announcement.
In maritime mobile service, distress communications can be directed to all stations.
or a particular station. When digital selective calling techniques are used, the announcement
urgently indicate what frequency will be used to send the following message and,
In the case of a message addressed to all stations, the format 'All ships' will be used.
ships).
Urgent ads coming from a coastal station can also be directed to a group.
of vessels or to the vessels of a defined geographic area.
The emergency signal is formed by the words PAN PAN. In radiotelephony, each of those
words will be pronounced like the French word 'panne' (in Spanish 'pan').
The urgent call format and the urgent signal indicate that the station making the call
You need to convey a very urgent message regarding the security of a mobile unit or
a person.

sAsEMAR

Communications for search and rescue coordination.

The rescue coordination center in charge of directing a search operation and
rescue management will also direct traffic related to the incident or may designate to
another station to do it.
The rescue coordination center that coordinates the emergency traffic, the unit that coordinates
las operaciones de búsqueda y salvamento o la estación costera participantepodrán imponer
silence to the stations that disturb that traffic. Such instructions will be directed to all the
stations or just one, depending on the case. In both cases, the following will be used:

a) In radiotelephony, the signal SILENCE MAYDAY, pronounced like the French words 'silence'
help me
All stations that have knowledge of a distress traffic, and that are not prohibited,
participating in it do not find themselves in danger, transmit on the frequencies in which the traffic takes place
Help, until they receive the message indicating that normal traffic can resume.
16 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

The mobile service station that, while continuing to follow a rescue traffic, is located in
Conditions for continuing your normal service, you may do so when it does not disturb emergency traffic.
When the emergency traffic ceases on the frequencies that have been used for that traffic,
the station that has directed the search and rescue operation will initiate a message for
subtransmission in said frequencies indicating that the rescue traffic has finished.

Communications at the site of the incident.

The communications at the scene of the incident are those established between the mobile unit in danger and
the mobile assistance units, and between these and the unit that coordinates the search operations
and rescue.
The unit that coordinates search and rescue operations is responsible for the control of
communications at the site of the incident will use simplex communications, so that
all mobile stations that are in the accident area can share the information
relevant to the relief situation.
Lasfrecuenciaspreferidasen radiotelefonía para lascomunicacionesen el lugar delsiniestro
They are 156.8 MHz and 2182 kHz. distress and calling frequencies in VHF radiotelephony.
Media (OM) respectively.

Bridge to bridge communications

Canal6: used for communications between the ship and aircraft stations that participate
in coordinated search and rescue operations.

Communications on maritime safety and routine communications

Canal13(156,650 Mhz): reserved as a communication channel for navigation safety,
mainly for communications between ships regarding said safety. It can also
to be used for the service of boat movement and port operations.

A.1.6.- Order of priority of radiocommunications.

The main priorities are the following:
1.-Distress calls (MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY), distress message and distress traffic.
2.- Communications preceded by the urgency signal: PAN PAN.
3.- Communications preceded by the security signal: SECURITY SECURITY SECURITY.
4.- Communications related to radiogoniometric markings.
5.-Comunicaciones relativas a la navegación de los barcos que intervienen en operaciones de
search and rescue.

Measures against interferences.

It is prohibited for all stations:
The useless broadcasts.
The transmission of signals and superfluous correspondence.
The transmission of false or misleading signals.
The transmission of signals without identification.
All broadcasts will be required to limit their radiated power to the minimum necessary that
ensure a satisfactory service.
In the Manual Radiotelephone Service, the use of systems that transmit signals is not permitted.
call or continuous or repeated identification.

Captain's authority.
The service of a station of barcode depends on the superior authority of the captain of the person.
responsible for the vessel of the carrier station.
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 17

The person invested with this authority must demand not only that each operator observes the
prescriptions of the International Regulations for Telecommunications, but also that the
barcode station that is responsible for the operator should be used according to what is in this
Regulatory stipulates.
The captain or the responsible person, as well as all the people who may have knowledge
from the text, or simply from the existence of radiograms or any other report obtained by
in the midst of the radiocommunication service, they have the obligation to keep and guarantee the secrecy
of the correspondence.
The content of the three previous paragraphs is also applicable to the staff of the stations.
boat landings.

Tests
Given the need to emit test signals, these signals will be minimized and at any
In case, they will never exceed ten seconds.
Any harmful interference caused by testing will be nullified as quickly as possible.
During the broadcasts conducted during testing or adjustments, the stations must
identify well by the ship's name, by its call sign, or by the number of
Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) identification.

Ante la posibilidad de que estas señales de prueba o ajuste, puedan causar interferencias a las
coastal stations operating in their vicinity, the ships must notify them to
such stations before making such emissions.
These broadcasts will never be made on channel 70.

secret of communications
El servicio de radiocomunicaciones de una estación de barco depende del responsable de la
vessel that must ensure compliance with the Radiocommunications Regulations, avoiding:

The interception, without authorization, of radio communications not intended for general public use.
The disclosure of the content or simply the existence, publication or any other
use, without authorization, of all kinds of information obtained through interception of the
radio communications not intended for general public use referred to in the previous section.
The responsible person, as well as those operating the station, have the obligation to keep and
guarantee the secrecy of communications.

A.1.7 - Nomenclature of dates and times in the maritime mobile service.

All dates related to radiocommunications must be expressed in accordance with the
Gregorian calendar.
If a date does not indicate the month in full or abbreviated form, it will be expressed in full.
numeric mind according to a fixed sequence of digits, in which each group of two digits will represent
the day, the month, and the year.
Whenever a date is used along with a time referred to as "Coordinated Universal Time"
(UTC), this date must correspond to that of the prime meridian, that is, to that of Greenwich.
Unless otherwise indicated, whenever a specified time is used in international activities
In radiocommunication channels, Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) will be applied.
responding to the abbreviation of 'Universal Time Coordinate', represented by a group of four
numbers (0000-2359). In all languages, the abbreviation UTC must be used.
18 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

LCD screen with numbers of

canal in large characters.
Automatic position entry Control Distress
Microphone Speaker and time from a GPS. (automatic call
handheld compact. low noise. of help) C/70.

Access
directly to C16.

Control of
volume and power. Selector of
channels.
Rotary control of Keyboard for the
squelch to suppress drafting messages.
noise and car position.

SECTION B.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL TO USE THE RADIOELECTRIC EQUIPMENT OF A BOAT.
B.1 Equipment installation.
According to Article 12 of Royal Decree 1185/2006, modified by Royal Decree 1435/2010 in the
that approves and modifies the Regulation governing maritime radiocommunications
the hulls of Spanish civil ships:
All radio equipment installed on Spanish vessels must be registered.
by the Maritime Administration and, with the exception of recreational vessels, in which
Only notification will be mandatory; prior authorization is required for their installation.
on board. Recreational boats with a length equal to or less than 12 meters will not be
obligated to notify the installation of any equipment unless they have the License of
Boat Station.
2. The installation authorization requests will be addressed to the maritime captaincy within whose jurisdiction
find the port where the installation will take place. On recreational boats in
those that are required to inform about the installation of the equipment, communications will be directed
by the ship's operator or their representative or authorized installer, to the maritime authority or
maritime district in which the port where the installation has been carried out is located.
For installations carried out in foreign ports, the installation communications must
address the General Directorate of Merchant Marine.
When it comes to portable equipment, radar responders, receivers, probes, or other equipment
non-mandatory devices with power less than 25 watts, the presentation of the invoice will be sufficient
purchase and its onboard provision will not require the certification of any installing company.

Technical recommendations
Likewise, the radioelectric installations will be set up in such a way that the absence of
harmful interference to other onboard electrical or electronic systems or to them
radioelectric equipment and special care will be taken with wooden ships or those made of other materials not
conductive. Each radio equipment will have its own grounding connection.
As a general rule, radio equipment must be located in such a way that the operator
in charge of its operation can have an overview of navigation when using it
any of these teams.
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 19

All mandatory radio equipment must be adequately illuminated by

an emergency light. This light should adequately illuminate the control knobs,
so that the equipment can be used safely, as well as the installation work table
radioelectric, so that it is possible to read and write on it.
All radio communication equipment installed on Spanish ships and using the
LLSD techniques must be able to automatically convey the situation with the alert of
help obtaining such information from an internal or external navigation receiver (GPS) in order to
When the button or buttons are activated, the position of the ship should be included on the emergency panel.
automatically in the initial distress alert.

B.2 Portable VHF equipment.

Portable bidirectional radiotelephone equipment operating on marine VHF band (Very High Frequency)
They are equipment primarily used for short-distance bidirectional communications.
(approximately 5 miles) In those cases where this equipment must be carried on board in a way
mandatory, they will comply with the specifications of the sMssM and will have a primary battery of
color amarillo o naranja precintada, apta para ser usada únicamente en caso de emergencias. También
they will be able to have another rechargeable secondary battery for everyday use.

The sealed primary battery must have a lifespan not exceeding 4 years from its date.
installation on the vessel. The seal will be of a quality sufficient to the discretion of the Administration
Maritime and its breach, whatever the cause that produces it, will nullify its validity.
The portable radio-telephone devices will be located in a place that is easily visible inside the
vessels will be adequately protected and access to them during navigation will not
will require the use of keys or other systems that can prevent or delay its collection.
Each portable VHF device will be marked on its exterior with indelible material that does not deteriorate,
the expiration date of its batteries and the identification of the ship to which it belongs.

B.3 Radar transponders.-

The Responders of Search and Rescue (REsAR), in English Search and Rescue
Transponders (sART) are dedicated exclusively to the location of rafts, life boats and
even castaways floating in the water, extremely effective in their task.
They operate in the 9 GHz band (from 9.200 to 9.300 MHz), a band used by radars.
conventional, generating a series of response signals when they capture the waves emitted by
any of these radars installed on board a ship or an aircraft. Its activation can
whether manual or automatic when floating in the water; in one way or another, the device will inform of its activation
in operation through an acoustic and visual signal, in the same way it will do as soon as it is
"interrogated" by the radar of a ship or aircraft, warning the castaways that they are being
detected.

1- RESPONDEDOR CERRADO. 2- RESPONDEDOR ABIERTO. 3- SEÑAL TRANSPONDEDOR EN RADAR. El respondedor de radar

(RESAR Ó SART) is highly useful when its emergency signals are detected on the radars of other ships. It has proven its great
effectiveness also in the location of shipwrecked people. In Northern European countries, it is tied to the Lifebuoy.
20 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

When the REsARes is "interrogated," it responds by generating a sweeping frequency that produces a
12-point line on the radar screen of the ship or aircraft that comes to assist, while,
It has already been said, inform the castaways of this circumstance.

The battery of the REsAR must have sufficient capacity to keep it in a situation of
Wait (Stand-by) for 96 hours, and a minimum of 8 hours, while being interrogated, and must
be able to operate between -20º and +55º Celsius.
Placed or floating 1 m above the water's surface, it should be detectable at a distance.
up to about 10 miles by a ship radar whose antenna is located 15 meters high, or up to 30
miles if the radar is installed on board an aircraft.
Recommendation
In case of emergency, even if you are waiting on board to be rescued, activate the responder.
Warning
It is not advisable to use the responder and the radar deflector together, because this one
could mask the signal of that one.
REsAR or portable vHF?
In case of any doubt that may arise, given that Spanish regulations stipulate that one can choose
By one means or another, it may be convenient to point out the great help that the REsARnos can provide.
In the case of 'man overboard', if at the same time that the alarm is raised, we throw the RESAR into the water.

B.4 NAVTEX Receivers.

This System, in its official designation, is a 'Service
International Direct Band Printing Telegraphy
Estrecha”; un radioteletipo o radiotelex dicho para mejor
understanding, used for the dissemination of nautical notices,
meteorological bulletins and urgent information from
maritime security related to coastal waters, up to
at least 200 miles of range. Should the case arise and of
consider it appropriate the responsible Authority of
Information on weather report issuance Maritime Rescue is also used for transmission.
via Navtex
from a distress signal.
Integrated into the SMSSM, NAVTEX is one more of those that
they make up the World Service of Maritime Radio Warnings
(SMRN), and is made up of a coordinated network of
ground transmitting stations, whose emissions are received
on board via a specific receiver.

The broadcasts are carried out on the frequency (exclusive for

everyone) at 518 Khz, and in English as the only language.
However, the frequency of 490 kHz has also been provided.
for those countries that, in addition to the International Service,
they should provide it in their vernacular languages, just as
this is the case in Spain. - In tropical areas, for reasons of
propagation, the frequency of 4.209 KHz is also used.

These broadcasts take place every four hours, their

Alarm emission on a Navtex equipment of duration should not exceed ten minutes, and it is the
on board: "CHINA PISHING BOAT A MAN"
OVERBOARD IN PSN 23-09N119-10E AT International Maritime Organization (IMO) is in charge of
091125UCT ALL SHIPS IN VICINITY PLS the coordination and assignment of schedules, as well as the
KEEP A SHARP LOOKOUT
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 21

to assign the 'Technical Key' or 'Identification Character',

consistent in a letter that identifies each of the
stations. This “Identification Character”, along with that of
"Character of the Subject" (also a letter), which corresponds to
the key that identifies the type of message that follows
it will be broadcast, allowing users to choose the station or
stations in a certain geographical area. The users
they can also choose the geographical area of the messages
that may be of interest to you. This programming will allow the
onboard team reject the emissions from the stations and
unwanted messages.
Issuance of notices to mariners
before GMDSS NAVTEX team
On the other hand, thanks to the numbering that the system
provide to each message, those already received will be
automatically rejected, taking into account that
these receivers cannot reject those containing vital information, nor those regarding assistance,
search and rescue included.

In Spain, the NAVTEX network is configured by four centers, namely: La Coruña (identification: D),
Tarifa (identificación: G), Cabo de la Nao (X), Las Palmas (I).

B.5 Automatic Ship Identification Systems (AIs-sIA).

Since December 31, 2004, and in accordance with the determinations of the IMO (International Maritime Organization)
Time Organization), all vessels subject to the SOLAS Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea
in the Marn (Safety of Life At Sea) with more than 300 GT and with international traffic must carry incorporated
mobile radiotransponders AIs (Automatic Identification system).

Objectives of the AIS: the statutory objective of the AIS is to reinforce the safety of human life at sea,
the safety and efficiency of navigation and the protection of the environment.

The AIS system consists of a ship identification system that continuously emits information.
and autonomous and enables the exchange of information on identification, position, heading, speed
and other data between vessels, and with coastal stations, with the capability to manage multiple reports and
high refresh rate as it reaches a volume of up to 4500 messages per minute.

How AIS works: the AIS uses a SOTDMA data transmission system (Self-Organized Time Division Multiple Access).
Time-Division Multiple Access), in which GPS is essential as it not only provides the
ship's position, also provides Universal Time. The Identification Au System
automatic operates in the VHF band of the maritime mobile service and is based on the use of
of automatic transponders, installed on board, capable of sending data to other vessels or to a
ground control center.
Each ship sends and receives messages to all ships that are within its VHF range.
Data provided through the AIS are as follows:

Statistical Data DYNAMIC DATA Travel-related data

Ship name Universal Time

Type Vessel position Information about the load

MMSI Effective route Destination

IMO number Effective speed ETA
Length and beam Rotation speed Other relevant information
State of navigation
Hollow (moored, anchored or sailing)
22 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

Modes of operation of AIs:

From ship to ship, the priority objective is to avoid
collisions.
It is the primary operating mode of the AIS, in which each
the vessel transmits its data to all nearby vessels
that have AIS on a VHF channel. The position
of the ship and other data are automatically transferred from

A container ship is sailing in the device.

the sensors to the AIS system, where they are coded and
of maritime traffic separation of Finisterre transmitted by a VHF channel.
When received by other vessels, the data is
decoded and its presentation can be in format
graphic or text. AIS data can be visualized in
the integrated navigation systems and the systems of
radar, through tags in the different signals.

2. From the ship to the competent authorities in the area,

so that they can have information about the
The control centers of Sasemar have ship and its cargo
real-time information about all
the technical characteristics, of passage and of In coastal waters, the relevant authorities can
navigation of all merchant ships to have AIS stations to control movement
that sail in Spanish waters
of vessels in the area. Also these ground stations
They can use AIS channels to transmit information.
about currents, weather reports, and others
information of interest.
Likewise, the authorities can use the AIS system.
to control the movement of hazardous materials and the
fishing operations in its waters.
Finally, the system can also be useful in
rescue operations, allowing control of the
Image from the website [Link]
movements of ships, airplanes, and helicopters
created by Jose María Dávalos involved in the rescue task.

From the ship to the control center, integrating a traffic management system.
When the AIS is integrated into a traffic management system, a tool is available.
very effective in controlling the movement of ships in restricted waters and narrow passages.
The AIS can increase radar efficiency by allowing for the identification of vessels.
AIS channels can be used to transmit data from the port, berth assignment and
any land-ship information that is necessary.
The information you provide allows the different port authorities to
monitoring of maritime traffic within its territorial waters. In this regard, the system
AIS increases the efficiency and safety of navigation and reduces the workload for
the users and operators.
Which vessels must carry the AIS?
Since 2007, the AIS standard is mandatory for ships.
adhered to the SOLAS Convention that have any of the
following characteristics:
Ships with a gross tonnage of over 500 GT.
Ships on international voyages with a gross tonnage greater than
300 GT.
The AIS is fully implemented in
All passenger vessels, regardless of their
the global merchant fleet size.
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 23

- On April 23, 2009, Directive 2009/17/ was published.

CE regarding the establishment of a community system
of monitoring and information about maritime traffic
that modifies the previous Directive 2002/59/E, making
mandatory use of AIS for fishing vessels, with the
next implementation calendar:
Fishing vessels with a total length of 24 meters or more
or less than 45 meters, no later than May 31, 2012,
This fishing vessel must be equipped
Fishing vessels with a total length of 18 meters or more with the AIS before 31.05.2013

less than 24 meters, no later than May 31, 2013,

Fishing vessels with a total length of 15 meters or more
less than 18 meters, by no later than May 31, 2014.
The AIS for vessels not subject to the Convention
SOLAS and not fishing vessels, that is to say
for recreational boating vessels, it was addressed in the
Commission Decision of January 25, 2005, 2005/53/
It states that "the harmonization of services of
radio contributes to enhancing navigation safety The implementation of the AIS standard in the naú-
of the ships not subject to the SOLAS Convention, especially recreation policy is still a distant goal
in case of danger and security situations, for the
that the member states invite such ships to
participate in the AIs.
This decision affects the direction of establishing the AIS.
also as an essential element in ships more
small.
The implementation of the SMSSM (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System) in Spain

of Maritime Rescue and Security), starting in 2008, and the

subsequent installation of VHF equipment with Call
Selectiva Digital (LSD) has meant the first steps
for the implementation of the AIS standard in navigation
recess. A goal still far off in time.

AI Equipment Classes
Class A equipment is the equipment established to be carried on board SOLAS vessels that comply
All the requirements established by the IMO. An AIS class A consists of:
A VHF Transmitter
Two VHF receivers (SOTDMA)
A VHF DSC or LSD (Digital Selective Calling) receiver
A GNSS receiver (GPS or Glonass)
A standardized marine interface to communicate data with other ship equipment (NMEA).
ECDIS, ECS.
A computer (CPU) or the firmware (application program).
Class B equipment has been designed for use in fishing boats and recreational vessels.
that do not comply with Chapter V of the SOLAS Convention and have a lesser functionality than the
of class A.
24 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

Exceptions in the use of AIs for the Buques sOLAs

The use of AIS data by pirates and terrorists is
a fact that causes great concern to the authorities
and the maritime professionals. In this sense, the assembly
from the IMO of November 2003 adopted Resolution A
956(23) which amends the operating rules of
Resolution (AIS) A.917(22) and allows captains
turn off the AIS system in those areas where the risk of
The attack by pirates or terrorists is imminent.
As indicated above, the AIS system is of
Warships are not required to
dissemination; consequently anyone can receive it, without
use the AIS system discrimination.

AI coverage in Spain
The AIS coverage in Spain of the SHIPCONTROL service
is guaranteed by Telefónica Soluciones, which manages
and maintains a network of 35 AIS receiving stations that
covers the entirety of the Spanish coastline.

Unlike other services that use the infrastructure

of individual customers, Telefónica's network of stations
General coverage of the AIs it has guaranteed operation and has systems
in Spanish lasagna
redundant.

The AIs compared to other navigation systems

The radar: its operating system allows for the recognition of almost all ships or
vessels that navigate within their range, as well as coastal profiles and objects
floaters. But unlike the AIS, it does not identify them.

However, it is important to note that the AIS screen is not a faithful reflection of reality as
a military vessel is not required to use the system and that, likewise, the equipment of a boat
it may be out of service. Therefore, in these two cases, there may be a risk of boarding and not
advertise on the AIS screen of this equipment.

Therefore, it can be concluded that radar and AIS are complementary, not substitutes.

Main advantages of AIs

AIS allows you to see on a computer screen the vessels around us.
The range is much greater than that of a radar.
Many of its identifying data are known, in addition to its status, course, and speed.
The data is displayed on electronic maps.
The AIS data is very clear and not confused with other targets.
All the information arrives via the internet to any PC on land or via VHF signals to the vessels.
and in both cases it is free.
Its price is much lower than that of other systems.
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 25

Satellite communications: it is common for ships to carry out their communications via satellite.
(Inmarsat). But it is not an efficient system for locating ships in the environment as it would make
It is necessary that all the information is first communicated to a central system that will process the information.
Moreover, the expense would be very high.

CommunicationsVHF: until the implementation of the LSD (Digital Selective Calling) the only way that
we had to head towards a vessel that was making a call via VHF on channel 16 and, switching to a
work channel, provide identifying data. This system is outdated from this perspective.
AIS is indeed the VHF data channel and facilitates communication between vessels as we can
to address a vessel using its call sign, knowing its length, name, heading and
exact position. A new dimension in navigation assistance.
It is recommended to visit the website [Link] for its spectacular visualization.
national level of maritime traffic on the coasts of the Iberian Peninsula and in a scattered manner, in the
Strait of Gibraltar.

A Spanish engineer, a website and Google

With an average of 5,000 daily visitors, reaching peaks of 10,000, a fan from Murcia
al mar directs and manages one of the most important websites in Spain for localization of
ships, [Link]. Telecommunications engineer, José María Dávalos, 55-year-old from Murcia
years old, in his free time and thinking about all the ships sailing the Spanish coast, he came up with
[Link] where you can see in real time all the ships sailing along the coast,
providing access to an increasingly extensive database with all the characteristics of each one
of them.
The great contribution is the precise location on the map (Google) of the defeat of any vessel,
in addition to the ship's characteristics, its cargo, and estimated time of arrival. All this data is
They are stored in a database. The website is also oriented towards recreational boating enthusiasts.
with the help of a computer and the Internet, real-time maps including data are being viewed
meteorological data from the Meteosat satellite.

The location of ships is possible thanks to the Automatic Identification System (AIS), in use
mandatory on all large vessels, although it can also be installed voluntarily on
recreational boats. The signal is emitted with the same antenna used for the radio
(mandatory) of the boat.
On the left image, visualization of maritime traffic in the Strait of Gibraltar. On the right,
información detallada del buque “Bissat”, su MMSI, Tipo: Alta velocidad. Estado; Navegando a motor.
Destino:Tarifa-Tánger. Velocidad: 30 nudosRumbo: 192º y sus coordenadas geográficas.
26 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

B.6 Satellite location beacons for incidents at 406 MHz and VHF.
Notification and registration of radio beacons.
The 406 MHz satellite beacon radios and the other beacons that are installed on ships
nationals must be registered with the Directorate General of the Merchant Marine, which
will maintain an updated database of them, with the aim of facilitating the activity of the
rescue services. The code to program for these radio beacons will be the identification number.
of the maritime mobile service (MMSI).
The ships whose emergency beacons were programmed with their call sign in the
moment when this regulation came into force could maintain this programming until it
produced the expiration of their batteries, proceeding to modify then their identification coinciding
with that change.
When, for any reason, a 406 MHz radiobeacon is dismounted from a ship or when
this will be appointed as a representative in another State, the shipowner or legal representative must communicate
subaja a Dirección general de la Marina Mercante, directamente o a través de cualquier capitanía
maritime, in order to proceed to deregister it from the database.
-Important.- Any radiobeacon installed on a Spanish ship must be marked with its
exterior, with indelible material that does not deteriorate, the operating instructions in Spanish,
the expiration date of your batteries and the identification of the ship to which it belongs (name, distinguishing mark
of calling and MMSI). The release device will also be marked, either on its exterior or in a
label next to it, the instructions for use and its expiration date.
When the radio beacon installed on a ship is activated involuntarily without any reason
For this, the captain, the person responsible for it, must report the fact.
from the Maritime Administration to prevent the unjustified use of rescue means.
La notificación podrá hacerse utilizando los medios de que disponga el buque, a través de cualquier
coastal station or maritime rescue coordination center (CCS).
Whenever for any reason the data appearing on the original registration sheet.
a beacon (change of owner, ship information, expiration of batteries or fuses, etc.)
propietario del buque deberá facilitar a la Dirección general de la Marina Mercanteuna nueva
registration sheet, in which such modifications will be included to update the available information
in the database.
Features of 406 MHz Beacons.
406 MHz beacons are equipment for emission
of alerts through the Cospas-Sarsat satellites. Their
the main characteristics are as follows:
Accuracy in localization (of the order of ± 2 miles)
Worldwide coverage.
Unique identification of each beacon.
Another of its most important features is the inclusion of
digitally coded messages, with related information
to the country of origin and identification of the ship, depending
of the beacon model used, its situation
determined by its internal navigation receiver team
(GPS beacon).
The buoyancy and stability of the These beacons transmit a radio frequency burst
the radiobeacon is of great importance for
guarantee the optimal transmission of the signal 5W of power lasting half a second every 50
with formed sea seconds and currently, they can operate at the frequencies
de406.025 MHz to de406.028 MHz. In addition, they incorporate a
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 27

1- RADIOBALIZA CERRADA. 2- RADIOBALIZA VISIBLE. Mientras no se usa, la radiobaliza permanece cerrada en un contenedor
that protects her from the elements. 3- ACTIVATED BEACON. The 406 MHZ beacon is especially important in Zone 2 of
Navigation, as it serves to cover the 25 miles (from 35 to 60 miles) where there may be no VHF reach. The radio beacon can
dive into the water in case of Man overboard or near the lifeboat in case of abandonment and on board, already activated, before
abandon the ship.

radio beacon device on the frequency of 121.5 MHz, which allows them to be located
easily by the forces of Air Rescue Services (SAR).
The Cospas-Sarsat 406 MHz satellite distress beacons for activation
The automatic systems must be installed on the same deck of the vessel and free of
any obstruction that may impede free floating in case of sinking.
The radio beacon must be permanently located on its support while the vessel is
it is located at sea. It is recommended not to remove it from its support even when the boat is
found in port. In any case, if for any reason it is removed from the support, the
The person responsible for the boat must place it in the same, in its normal and correct position.
operation, before setting sail.
The 406 MHz satellite beacons that must be installed on board Spanish ships
they must be of the type automatic and manual deactivation and release, that is to say, they must be located in
a support, which will have a device for release by hydrostatic pressure that will be activated
when the beacon is submerged in water at a depth of between 1.5 and 4 meters.
The 406 MHz beacons must be programmed with the MMSI assigned to the ship. Once
programmed by the authorized company and installed by the authorized installation company, the latter
must send to the Telecommunications Area of the General Directorate of Merchant Marine (DGMM),
the 'Registration and Installation Sheet', which includes the data of the radio beacon and the owner of the
buque, al objeto, como ya se ha dicho, de que sean introducidos en la base de datos para uso de las
maritime rescue authorities. Any variation of this data must be communicated to the
DGMM.
The automatic and manual activation radiobeacons must be able to be released from their support.
manually and easily to move them to a survival boat in case of
need, so it should never be located on masts or other places where
can only be reached by a vertical ladder. The radio beacons whose activation
Only manual should be found in a well-visible and easily accessible place so that it can be
be activated quickly if necessary.
The radio beacons installed on Spanish vessels must undergo a test.
annual operation, good by inspectors of the Maritime Captaincy, by staff of the
authorized inspection organizations or by installation and maintenance companies
that are authorized for it by the Maritime Administration. The test will consist of
Basically in a visual check of all the parts that make it up, its location and assembly,
identification and coding through the self-check system, expiration date of batteries and
release device, issue date, and others.
28 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

In addition, every four years, the radio beacons will be subject to,
in an approved testing or technical service center of the
authorized installer company, for an examination and maintenance
The container
equipped with complete, paying special attention, among other things,
hydrostatic shot to the stability of the frequency, the power of the signal and
guarantees the
activation of the the state of charge of the batteries. It will be ensured that this
radiobeacon in checking and maintenance is carried out coinciding with the
a depth
understood between 1 battery change.
and 4 meters.
Every battery or release device change requires
the placement of a new label, written with material
indelible, with the new expiration date engraved by
the authorized company for its replacement. The labels
they should not contain errors or cross-outs. In the case of
substitutions made in foreign ports, the date of
expiration of batteries and release device must be
mandatory submitted to the DGMM.
The batteries of the radio beacon must have a usable life not
superior to four years from the date of its installation
and its replacement in the equipment must be carried out by a
authorized installation company.
The release device (hydrostatic release) will have a
useful life not exceeding two years from the date of its
installation and its replacement must also be carried out
when, once in the water by an installation company
authorized.
As already mentioned, the beacons are released
automatically from its support when, once in the water,
they reach a depth of between 1.5 and 4 meters. Once
They reach the surface, begin to emit alert signals.
to the satellite at frequencies of 121.5 MHz (in a way
permanent) and on 406 MHz (a burst every 50 seconds).

Personal radio beacon 406.028 MHz. Portable VHF equipment.

This device has a built-in GPS and
guarantees an almost immediate alert The portable two-way radiotelephone equipment of
(5 minutes) and great precision (<120m.). Marine band VHF metric waves are equipment whose
It fits in the palm of the hand and is a
location guarantee in case of main use is intended for two-way communications to
man overboard. short distance (approximately 5 miles) In those cases
in which these equipment must be carried on board in a way
mandatory, they will comply with the specifications of the sMssM and will have a primary battery of
yellow or orange sealed color, suitable for use only in case of emergencies. Also
They may have another rechargeable secondary battery for everyday use.
The sealed primary battery should have a lifespan of no more than 4 years from its date.
of installation on the ship. The seal shall be of sufficient quality at the discretion of the Administration
Maritime and its breakage, whatever the cause that produces it, will annul its validity.
The portable radio-telephone equipment will be located in a place that is easily visible inside the
vessel, they will be properly protected and access to them during navigation will not
will require the use of keys or other systems that can prevent or delay their collection.
Each portable VHF device will be marked on its exterior with indelible material that does not deteriorate.
the expiration date of your batteries and the identification of the ship to which it belongs.
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 29

PH. PLISSON ©.(Image provided by PLASTIMO SPAIN)

B.7 Energy sources for radioelectronic equipment.

Accustomed to the "indiscriminate" use of electric energy in our homes and in the centers of
work, as also happens to professional sailors on board merchant ships,
authentic floating buildings in some cases, the recreational boating enthusiast will find themselves
surprised by the need to moderate and especially control electricity consumption on board.
If in a small boat, electric energy is not absolutely essential (even the
funding could be done 'by hand', the average length of a boat controlled by a yacht captain (by
Example 14-15 meters) will require a minimum energy input even if it is just to start.
the engine and raise the anchors. The fact is that electricity is today an essential element for the
navigation and comfort on board.

The problem arises because in small or medium-sized recreational vessels, the lack of
the space is remarkable. Otherwise, as is already the case with larger vessels, the installation of
generators of the adequate power would facilitate the contribution of sufficient electrical energy, as well as the
fast charging of batteries. If not, there is no other option but to store energy through batteries.
or generate it punctually using the engine or by installing energy equipment
renewable, such as solar and wind, the former increasingly widespread in recreational boating.

We call the electrical system of a vessel that generates and distributes the necessary energy for
the lighting and operation of all onboard electrical and electronic devices.
An electrical system is composed of:
Elements degeneration and supply of electric current such as generators, alternators.
solar panels, wind energy equipment, and onshore electric grid.
Elements of electrical energy accumulation such as batteries.
Conduction elements, namely cables and connections.
Elements of adaptation through converters and chargers.
Control elements, such as disconnectors, protectors, regulators, switches, and panels.
voltage control, current control and many others.

Given its importance in the autonomy of the ship, all elements of the electrical system will be installed.
on board with the quality and safety necessary for its optimal operation. In this sense, all
The electrical installation on board must be approved according to the guidelines of the E.E.C.
30 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

Generation elements and electric power supply.

Alternator. The alternator is an alternating current generator, coupled to our engine that in its
rotation ensures the rotation of the rotor.

Rotor Through the alternator, mechanical energy is converted,

Stator
generated by our engine, into electrical energy. The rotor of
The alternator spins when connected by a belt to the shaft.
from the crankshaft and the current is generated when the rotor rotates in the
interior of the stator.

Bearings The most commonly used current in recreational boats is

Turbine the 12-volt one continues, although 24 volts is also used and in
Main elements of an alternator.
USA, 32 v.. In general, we will only have electricity available.
(Imagen de Kalipedia, la enciclopedia at 220 volts when tied to the dock and connected to
online of the Santillana Group.)
the grounding, although we will also be able to have 220
volts through onboard generators. In this regard, there are
in the market small portable generators that do not take up
a lot of space and not too noisy that will allow us
use certain 220 V equipment.
For storage in batteries as well as for its use in
red, this alternating current must be rectified, by
24V and 95A alternator, with speed diodes, to convert into direct current (leaving it
maximum speed of 10,000 rpm pass in one direction.
Alternators can be single-phase or multi-phase, the former for low frequencies and the
seconds for medium or large frequencies. We will understand a polyphase alternator as one that operates
with a set formed by several single-phase alternating currents, of equal frequency and effective value.

Alternating current (AC) is called the electrical current in which the magnitude and direction vary.
cyclically. The most commonly used waveform of alternating current is that of a wave
sinusoidal since it achieves a more efficient transmission of energy.
Direct current (DC) is the continuous flow of electrons through a conductor between two.
points of different potential. Unlike alternating current, in direct current the charges
electrical currents always flow in the same direction (that is, the terminals of higher and lower
potentials are always the same.

CA: Corriente Alterna. AC: Alternating current CC: Corriente Continua. DC: Direct Current

generation of current by solar energy. Solar energy is clean, silent, and infinitely
renewable. We could say that it is practically free if we set aside the cost of a
solar panel. In just 15 minutes the sun bombards the earth with more energy than the entire world would need.
humanity for a year, and the portion that affects a 14-meter vessel is equivalent to
approximately 600 amp hours from a 12-volt battery. Everything that
What we have to do is convert that light energy into electricity.
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 31

The main element of a system for converting energy

solar energy in electrical energy is the photovoltaic cell, also
called solar cell or photovoltaic cell.

All solar cells operate on the same principle: the

light strikes the upper surface of the cell and "pushes" the
electrons of the material with which it has been made towards a
bottom layer. By connecting the two layers, we manage to create
a "return home" circuit for those electrons.
The sun, an inexhaustible source of energy

The most efficient solar cells, based on silicon that

It is abundant in the sand, they are of the type
monocrystalline, where each cell is cut with a fine thickness
from a silicon bar that has received a treatment
specific. Panels of 36, 33 or 30 cells are available.

The electric current they produce is about 0.25 amperes.

(250 milliamperes) per square inch of cell. The
cells of a panel are connected in series until obtaining the Vessel equipped with solar panels
desired voltage. For example, a panel with 36 cells of five monocrystalline type
inches would produce about 18 volts capable of producing a
current intensity of 5 amperes, which means a
power of about 90 watts.

Therefore, when estimating the performance of an installed panel

horizontally on our boat, we can't wait any longer
what is equivalent to maximum performance for four
hours; that is to say, that a panel that specifies an output of 5
amperes will provide approximately 20 amperes/hour in
a sunny day.

In summary, solar energy on board cannot be considered

still today as the only source of power supply on board.

Nevertheless, it has three advantages: first of all, it is quiet,

inexhaustible, free, and natural. Secondly, it will maintain the
batteries fully charged throughout the year while
Flexible solar panels installed in the
his boat spends long periods moored and not sailing, deck of a sailboat. This type of panels
multiplicando así por cuatro, su vida útil. Por último, con un is specifically designed for your
use in the marine environment and allow
adequate savings in consumption and if we sail on board of its installation on curved surfaces. The
a sailboat, we will only hear the noise of the engine for a few photovoltaic modules are flexible and are
made with recyclable materials.
minutes to anchor in a cove to spend the night. (Photo: François van Malleghem ©) (Image
provided by PLASTIMO SPAIN

generation of current by wind energy. The use of

the wind as a source of energy for man has its
origins over 4000 years ago when there is evidence
from the construction of the first sailing vessels in
Egypt. Likewise, the use of windmills for
moving water or grinding grain dates back to ancient times,
back in Persia in the 7th century and has been a helpful element
fundamental for the inhabitants of the Netherlands in their
secular struggle against the sea.
32 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

Since the last century, wind has been used as a source of electricity generation and in the
Currently, Spain is the second world power with more than 10,000 megawatts installed.
wind farms" throughout our geography. Scientists estimate that up to 10% of the
World electricity could be obtained from wind power generators by the middle of the 21st century.
In nautical terms, the use of wind as a propulsive force is not limited to sailing.
We can also use it as a source of electricity generation and although it is not too much
extended, it is common to see wind generators on the sterns of ocean-going sailboats that are engaged in
long journeys.
Wind turbine generators have several components. The rotor converts the force of the wind.
In rotational energy of the axis, a gearbox increases speed and a generator transforms the
axis energy into electrical energy. In some horizontal axis machines, the speed of the blades can
adjust and regulate during normal operation, as well as close in case of excessive wind.

POWER CURVE Generators designed for recreational boating

400
usually start from 5 knots of wind,
350
they incorporate a three-phase generator, they transform energy
300

250
mechanics in electrical energy in the same way as a
200 alternator with the difference that who moves the rotor
150 it is not a machine but the wind.
100

50 A wind turbine for nautical use can produce 90W of

0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1314 15 16 1718 19 20
electric power with 19 knots of wind and 24 W with 10
Wind speed (m/s) nudos. Llega a proporcionar hasta 250 W.

Given the instability of the wind, both in intensity and direction, the
Wind turbines usually have a system to modify the angle of the blades. This data prevents
excessively high rotation speeds in the case of strong winds.
The only downside is the safety. Watching the blades spin at up to 1300 RPM is somewhat unnerving.
It is installed at a sufficient height to avoid any contact. In addition, there are some on the market.
models with the ends of the propellers protected.
Elements for storing electrical energy such as batteries
Batteries. Batteries are elements that accumulate electrical energy in the form of current.
continue. Given the need to have stored energy on board to cover all services
Essential, batteries are indispensable.
Plastic cover Flexible plastic lid
molded with setting or that has holes for
Recipient material hermetic welding the emission of gases.
split molded plastic
in three or six elements (one Positive terminal, it is generally
for each element).
Negative terminal wider than the negative terminal
to be able to differentiate it.

Electrolyte: mixture of acid

sulfuric acid and distilled water
what covers the plates in each Orifice through which it is carried out
element. the filling and the control level
electronic.
Positive plates consist of
of an alloy armor Negative plates: all the plates
of lead, and consist of great they consist of a framework of
number of meshes that form lead alloy, and consist of
compartments full of large number of meshes that form
lead pentoxide compartments filled with active lead

separators are arranged between each The waste from the chemical reaction is
plate, to prevent short circuits and must they deposit in the bottom of the container in
let the electrolyte flow freely. decanter tanks.
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 33

On the vessels that the Yacht Master will navigate

they will always have two battery groups installed. One,
exclusively dedicated to the engine start and another
for the feeding of all instruments, services and
lighting of our ship. They are usually called batteries of
startup and services.
The batteries must be in a suitable area.
ventilation and securing so that they cannot tip over, nor
falling with the lurches or the tilt.

The correct thing is that they should be housed in small, acid-resistant plastic containers.
and should never be located above or below fuel tanks or circuit accessories
nutrition.
It is standard that starter batteries are capable of performing six starts without interruption.
followed by the engine.

Full charge. Another particularly important aspect in the preservation of batteries lies in the
fact that to achieve optimal performance and lifespan, these should be completely
loaded most of the time.
If your boat (like most) remains docked for days, weeks, or even months and, as already
It has been said, a small solar panel can keep the batteries fully charged during their
absence, multiplying its lifespan by four. Unlike a connected battery charger
the land-based electrical line, a solar panel does not introduce any risk of current leaks that
they produce corrosion in some metals of the ship (usually of utmost importance).

Conducting elements: cables and connections

Ground outlet. Almost all marinas
sports and nautical clubs in Spain have in their
docks with power outlets that allow connection
our vessel to the general electrical network (220V) and that
we usually take the opportunity for a deep charge of
all onboard accumulators and the 'indiscriminate' use
of electrical energy as well as the use of some devices
electronics such as the TV, the 'Play' or all the sockets and lights
of 220 V installed on board. Power outlets on the dock of
a port. The supply towers
The moorings of the marinas usually bring they combine the electrical service with that of
water, a risky situation that advises
head to all recreational boating enthusiasts starting work with caution. Observe in the
from the moment they leave their usual docking position photograph the passage of an electric cable in
the junction area just above
and they venture towards new destinations as the measures of the water intake. (Photo: William Borel ©)
The connectors do not match in many cases. Image provided by PLASTIMO SPAIN.

If adapters are requested at the captaincy, they are very likely to be out of stock or unavailable, and if they do have them, then
Get your pocket ready because, it is also logical, they end up leaving with the boat due to distraction or forgetfulness.

Therefore, it will be very convenient to have adapters on board and to have a cable of sufficient length.
sufficient since sometimes there are malfunctioning terminals or excessively far from our position
tie.

The plugs for the grounded outlets must be earthed and waterproof with a cover.
protectors if they are outside (always), and they must have an automatic protection switch or
protection fuses in each phase. The outlets will indicate their phases or poles.
34 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

Differential. Also called Differential switch

we use it as a protective device against contacts
grounding electricals.
Act by protecting the boat's electrical installation and avoiding
short circuits when the insulation of an installation is
defective.
The mechanism works in such a way that the switch disconnects.
the net before a derived current, that is a 'leak'
The differential is installed between the intake of electricity can be dangerous if it flows through the body
current to the external network and the system
electric boat from a person, in the case of indirect contact.

The lighting and power service is used on board for: Illuminating rooms (hall,
cabins, engine room, cockpit.) in addition to navigation and signaling lights.
On passenger ships and merchant vessels, as well as on larger yachts, it is important to
emergency lighting as in the event of a failure of the normal lighting system, this is activated to
illuminate essential areas of the ship, navigation lights, power for electronic equipment
of the bridge, etc.

The electrical installations on board can be classified into categories, for lower voltages or
equal to 50v and category B, for voltages above 50v.
The tensions for equipment installed on board must not exceed 250v for lighting, devices.
fixed, heating, etc. And 50v for portable equipment.

Adaptation elements through converters and

chargers
Converters. They are used on board, utilizing energy
facilitated by the batteries, to have 220 current
[Link],consoels,
mobile phone charger and use of laptops.

Lighter converter for small

They are usually protected against any polarity reversal
electronics and in general, they have an automatic controller of
tension that guarantees the regularity of the electrical signal.

Battery chargers. Battery chargers are one

one of the most important elements in any installation
mobile electric, since they are responsible for the batteries,
of those that receive energy all the equipment, should always be in
the best energy supply conditions.
Battery charger with 3 outputs of 50A
each one and 12V of output voltage They can always stay connected, reason why...
that guarantee an optimization of the load and a greater
battery longevity.
Battery chargers are adjusted according to the network voltage.
electric. They are protected against polarity reversal, the
short circuits, overloads, and temperature rises.
Battery chargers are also indicated in
small boats with a single battery and equipped
Portable charger with clamps, interesting
for vessels equipped with a with outboard motor, in which the battery recharge does not
battery alone it can be obtained by other means.
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 35

Principles of the Charging Phases of a Battery Charger

Phase 1 Boost: it is the period during Phase 3Float: phase during which
which the charger provides a the batteries are kept at a
maximum current and the voltage tension level of 13.5 V for
feed regularly until keep the load without increasing
reach the maximum tension of its temperature. In this way,
14,4V ó 14,8 V según el tipo de they can be left connected without
battery. This phase is subject to risk of overload.
initial state of the battery.
Phase 4 Powerpack: when the
Phase 2 Absorption: during this battery voltage is maintained
duringtheperiodthetensionisstored a 13.5V, the charger can
to a maximum level to optimize the supply power to the boat without
battery charge. have to use the batteries.

Control elements of the electrical system

Switchboard. The Switchboard or Panel
Distribution is used for the coupling of generators to
the internal network of the ship, to divide the circuits, to protect
the equipment and to power the secondary and final circuits.
These panels are installed to protect from the elements in
Protection boxes must be easily accessible.
Likewise, the clock installation with indicators and
alarms are absolutely necessary on vessels Distribution board and fuses.

the motor and is simplified greatly in the sailing ones where these
indicators mostly give way to the indicators
of wind direction and intensity. Among others, these are the
main indicators:
voltmeter: measures voltage or tension.
Ammeter: measures electric current.
Frequency meter: measures the frequency of alternating current.
Wattmeter: measures electrical power.
Termómetro:niveles de temperatura del aceite
Pressure gauges: they measure the pressure of the fluid.
Tachometers: they measure revolutions. Power and maneuvering controls of a
Nivelesde losdepósitosde combustible. motorboat.

Regulators. The battery charging process has the drawback that the charging time is
quite long and the supply of electric energy to the batteries (for example, when connected to the
grounding) remains even when the batteries are already charged causing a rise in their
temperature and a medium-term loss of performance.

If we use a regulator, the load of the alternator

it increases and the battery recharge is more
quick, always depending on its state
inicial. Una vez cargada la batería, el regulador se
automatically switches to "floating" mode for
prevent the battery from overloading and avoid that
raise your temperature.

The use of a regulator therefore guarantees a very fast optimal charge and a good
Battery conservation. Logically, it should be installed between the alternator and the batteries.
36 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

BATTERY CHARGING CURVE WITHOUT OR WITH REGULATOR

volts volts
Amps Amps

Type of curve that supplies an alternator without a regulator: the charging time is relatively long and the current flow
it remains even when the battery is fully charged. This circumstance causes a rise in temperature.
from the battery and a decrease in its performance over time. Type of curve with regulator: using a regulator, the charge
the alternator's output increases and the battery charging is faster depending on its initial state. When the battery
it is fully charged the regulator automatically switches to 'floating' mode to protect the battery from
overloads and thus prevent it from overheating. The regulators, therefore, ensure a very fast optimal charge and
a good preservation of the initial characteristics of the battery.

Switches. On the other hand, the installation of a battery switch is necessary.

allow to isolate or couple the power supply (services) and engine starter batteries.
The fundamental objective is, on one hand, to make effective the
batteries absolute disconnection between the accumulators and the services
disconnected.
1:start. and starter motor and on the other hand the possibility of having
2:services.
1+2:batteries
also, via parallel coupling, of the batteries of
to start services to increase the amperage and be able to start the engine
and services
coupled in case of lack of charge in the starter batteries.
in parallel
Galvanic isolators. The moored vessels.
to port, and most of them stay for a long time.
many times connected to the ground electrical network.
Some have somewhat defective electrical installations (bad
isolation, water leaks and current leaks
about the sector cause galvanic currents that
establish between the boats and the dock or between the
own vessels. They are progressively destroying the
metal masses submerged from the boat like engine tails,
propellers or hull passages.

Above: installation diagram of a

battery separator. Below: keys of
separator connection. In the image,
connected

The installation of a galvanic isolator along with zinc anodes is common.

minds placed on the motor axis and on the rudder blades if they are metal,
will protect our vessel from galvanic currents

Zinc anodes serve to largely prevent this

battery separators. They allow phenomenon but at times they are insufficient. Therefore, it is
distinguish the different groups of It is advisable to install a galvanic isolator for protection.
batteries in such a way that some of
they (for example, start) do not the metal hull of the ship, that of the dock or that of others
are affected by overconsumption boats. However, the galvanic isolator does not replace the
or due to an occasional short circuit.
anodes that must be installed and periodically verified.
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 37

INSTALLATION ERRORS
Short circuits occur when there is an overload in the circuit, usually due to moisture.
the contacts; contact between wires; or any mass that is produced.
Short circuits are dangerous if the current is not interrupted, which is why fuses are installed.
in each line.
5
Fuses Magnetic circuit breakers. The fuses
they are protective elements against possible increases in
the intensity or when short circuits occur. They are 4
glass ampoules with two contacts, joined on the inside
by a lead or tin wire, which withstands the amperage that
passes through the line, but it breaks when it is higher, 3 6
cutting off the electrical flow. 7

Currently, switches are used. 8

magnetic circuit breakers, which are a combination 2
of a single-pole switch and a fuse.
Under insulation. In all electrical installations, the cables 1
they must be suitably isolated and have the section
suitable for the service provided. The insulation must be [Link] de ventilación.2.Cámara
turn off sparks. 3. Shooting horn
resistant to seawater, oils, fuels, must be magnetic. 4. Bimetal, thermal device.
[Link] aire [Link].7.
fireproof and those exposed to sunlight, must be Contacto fi[Link] móvil. Magneto-
insensitive to ultraviolet radiation. thermal in open position

Taped splices should not be used; always use junction boxes or terminal connections.
isolated. The cables will always be secured with clamps and will always be of good material to avoid
the formation of magnetic fields, especially in the vicinity of the compass and instruments of
navigation.
Care of the electrical system. Salt and humidity are the great enemies of any system.
Electrical. It is therefore an unmissable task to carry out in a particular way or by means of professionals.
a routine inspection of the entire electrical system of the boat, protecting with anti-moisture sprays.
A boat is subject to all kinds of rolling and pitching under certain conditions of
navigation. In this sense, the securing of the cables using ties is an aspect to review for
avoid disconnections and short circuits.
If, as it should be, we have the electrical system diagram of our boat, it is very
It is advisable to analyze it once a year in depth to monitor the installation step by step, and it will be the best.
measure to ensure that in this case no "cable" is left loose.
voltage and intensity of a charged battery. The voltage of a battery is 12v or 24v. The batteries
They are made up of several vessels or elements each with a voltage of 2v at maximum load and 1.8v.
Downloaded. The intensity of the batteries varies depending on the models.

To know the amperage we need, we must understand the electrical balance of the ship, this is the
total power needed to supply all the appliances and lighting.

Example: What electric balance (l) does our ship have for a 12v and 1,200 w installation?
l = W/v; l = 1200/12 = 100 A/h.
It is necessary to have a reserve of 30% of the capacity for unforeseen events, so we must
to have a group of batteries of 130 A/h.
38 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

BATTERY CONNECTION IN SERIES, PARALLEL AND SERIES AND PARALLEL

IN SERIES IN PARALLEL IN SERIES AND IN PARALLEL

12v
+
90A 1 + 2 +

12v 12v 12v

45A 12v 45A 45A
- 24v 45A - - 24v
45A 3 + 4 +
90A
+

12v 12v 12v

12v 45A 45A
45A 45A
- - -

In series. The positive pole of one battery is connected to the negative of the other and the negative to the positive, which results in
it obtains double voltage and the same intensity.
In parallel. The positive terminal of one battery is connected to the positive of the other and the negative terminal of one with the negative of the other.
the other, with which the same voltage and double the current is obtained.
In series and in parallel. At least 4 batteries are needed. 2 batteries are connected in series separately (1-3/2-4) and the 4 in
parallel (1, 2, 3 and 4).

Battery care. Batteries are heavy and fragile at the same time, so they must be
handled carefully so as not to hit them or tip them over, spilling the electrolyte.
Electrolyte is the liquid found inside batteries. The density of it when a battery
When it is fully charged it is 1,280, when it is at 50% it is 1,220, and when it is discharged it is 1,190.
The level should be checked once a month, and if it is low, distilled water will be added. The batteries of
Cadmium-Nickel batteries need water added every six months in maintenance-free batteries.
You must follow the manufacturer's instructions.
The terminals must always be clean, free of rust on the contacts, coated with petroleum jelly or grease.
to protect them from moisture

We apologize to the reader-student, but the layout requirements force us to make a change.
from a heading of 90º to starboard for the reading and understanding of a modern electrical distribution panel with
date 13-07-2010 offered by Videoacustic.
SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 39
40 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

B.8 Mobile Telephony.- sAFETRX of Maritime Salvage

New Maritime Salvage App

for smartphones and tablets
Around 50% of the emergencies managed by the Society of
Salvage and Maritime Safety in Spain are related.
with recreational boats. The application rescue
Marítimo safeTrx offers a new way to respond to
incidents of vessels.
SafeTrx of Maritime Salvage monitors your navigation and alerts
to the emergency contacts (family or friends) in case of not
arriving at the destination within the planned timeframe. The application
it works like this:

Automatic introduction of travel data in the

smartphone.-It allows recreational sailors to have
a more accessible and simple way to keep your informed
family and Maritime Rescue of their navigation plans.
This function is especially useful for recreational boats
of motor and sail and even of floating devices such as kayaks and boards
windsurf
Vessel Tracking.-The SafeTrx information system
register the position of the vessel every mile traveled (or every 5
minutes if there is no movement). These position points are shown
in the Safetrx Monitoring Console of Maritime Rescue for
that, in case of critical situations, the possibility of activating is evaluated
the appropriate rescue means.
Automatic delay alert notifications.- A trip that
is delayed for any reason triggers a set of SMS messages
of alert that the selected emergency contacts receive
navigator when planning the navigation.
Response from Maritime Rescue.-When one of the contacts
In case of emergency, call Maritime Rescue due to the delay of the trip.
will have access to its last known position, vessel data
and trip data from SafeTrx through a secure server of it
system.
In summary, Maritime Rescue SafeTrx is an accessible tool for the
recreational boating users during their voyages. It does not replace the gMDss.
(World Maritime Rescue and Security System), nor to the AIs (system)
Automatic Identification), but it complements them.

CCS Tenerife
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 41

B.9 Basic knowledge of the INMARSAT system.

The Inmarsat System (International Maritime Satellite)

This system, also integrated into the SMSSM, is the one that provides satellite communications to the
ships, whether they are for rescue and safety or for "routine" purposes, through radiotelephony, radiotelex,
fax, data, and even television.
The system is composed of the following main components:
- The Spatial Segment
It is made up of the satellites that configure the network, and
whose coverage extends to the entire planet, except for
the Polar Regions. These satellites, in geostationary orbit
they are located on the equator of the oceans
Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian, at about 36,000 km high.
- The Coastal Seasonal Stations (ETC)
Stations that, on land, provide in the link between
the satellites and terrestrial telecommunications networks. Their
location is scattered. The coverage of the Inmarsat system reaches
the entire planet except for the Regio-
- The Terrenas De Buque Stations (ETB) Polar bears
They are installed onboard, and there are different classes.
the most common being those that comply with the regulations
goes from SMSSM (norms B, C and Fleet 77).

In addition to the equipment that allows for communication

bidirectional, there are receivers known as
Intensive Call to Groups (ICG), in English Enhanced
Group Call (EGC), capable of receiving all types of radioavi-
nautical SOS, weather information, and distress alerts
coastal-ship.

Inmarsat satellite network

Onboard Inmarsat equipment

42 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

SECTION C.
PROCEDURES FOR THE OPERATING OF MsSM and DETAILED PRACTICAL UTILIZATION OF
The subtopics and teams of SMSSM.
C.1 Basic introduction to the procedures of the sMssM.

The band from 156 to 174 MHz is the Very High Frequency (VHF) band.
Frequency) in the Maritime Mobile Service. In it are framed the services of
public correspondence as well as those for rescue and security in Digital Selective Calling (DSC) and in
radiotelephony.
All boat stations equipped to operate in the authorized bands between
156 MHz and 174 MHz, with fixed VHF installations, must be in conditions to transmit.
and receive emissions on the distress, urgency, and digital selective call security frequencies
de156,525 MHz (channel 70), in radiotelephony of 156,800 MHz (channel 16), as well as in the others
frequencies of this band.
Channel 70 is the international frequency of the maritime mobile service used to issue alerts.
help, urgency, security and routine, using selective digital calling techniques in the VHF band.
Channel 16 is the international frequency for distress calls, messages, and emergency traffic.
radiotelephony (voice).
This frequency may also be used:
For the call and the response, for the coastal stations and the ship stations.
Through the coastal stations to announce the broadcast, on another frequency, of their lists of
important maritime call and information.
Channels 75 and 76 are the anterior and posterior channels of channel 16 (guard band). These channels
They should only be used for navigation-related communications and should be avoided.
cause harmful interference to channel 16, limiting the output power to 1W. (1 watt)
Channels 10 and 11 are the anterior and posterior channels to channel 70. When using these channels, there will be ...
take all necessary precautions to avoid causing harmful interference to channel 70.
Channel 13 is reserved worldwide as a communications channel for security.
navigation, primarily for communications between ships related to that safety. It can
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 43

also used in boat movement services and port operations.

Channel 6 is used for communications between the ship and aircraft stations participating in
coordinated search and rescue operations.
Channel 9 is the channel commonly used by nautical clubs to contact...
recreational vessels and vice versa. Communications in this channel will be limited to those necessary.
for the service between these centers and the users of the vessels that navigate in their area
coverage.
The frequency of 121.5 MHz is used for emergency and urgency purposes in radiotelephony by stations.
of the aeronautical service. This frequency is also used by the maritime mobile service in the radio beacons
for the location of Cospas-Sarsat incidents, for the purpose of localization (homing).
121.5 MHz is also the frequency used in mandatory man overboard beacons.
The fishing boats. Recreational vessels can also use these radio beacons as long as
that on board they have a dedicated receiver capable of receiving on this frequency. However,
the availability of this radio beacon on board Spanish recreational vessels will require the
authorization from the maritime administration.
The power of the VHF transmitting equipment that must be used by the barcone stations must
never exceed 25 W. and the use in the vicinity of the ports will be carried out by emitting
at low power (1 W).

FUNDAMENTAL VHF CHANNELS AND FREQUENCIES

CHANNEL FREQUENCY UTILIZATION

156,525 MHz. 70 Emergency and security calls via 'Digital Selective Call'.

The frequency of 156.800 MHz is used for emergency and safety traffic in
156,800 MHz. 16 radiotelephony. This frequency can only be used by aircraft for purposes of
security.

They are the channels before and after channel 70. When using these channels, they must be taken into consideration.
10-11
all necessary precautions to avoid causing harmful interference to channel 70.

They are the anterior and posterior channels of channel 16 (guard band). These channels must
75 and 76 to be used solely for communication related to navigation and should be avoided
cause harmful interference to channel 16, limiting the output power to 1W. (1 watt)

123,100 MHz. Auxiliary frequency of 121.5 MHz.

Frequency for communication between ship and aircraft stations that participate
156,300 MHz. 6
in coordinated search and rescue operations.

156,650 MHz. 13 Ship-to-ship safety communications.

Aviation emergency frequency in radiotelephony, which can be used by the

boats and rescue devices.
121,500 MHz. The 406 MHz beacons can incorporate a rebroadcast radio device that emits
at this frequency. And so also, the so-called 'personal', integrated in some
life jackets.

The frequencies of 156.300 MHz (channel 06), 156.525 MHz (channel 70), 156.800 MHz (channel 16), 161.975
MHz (AIS 1) and 162.025 MHz (AIS 2) may also be used by aircraft for operations of
search and rescue and other communications related to safety.
Channel 70 will be used exclusively for digital selective calling for the purposes of distress, safety, and security.
call.
44 SHORT-RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

C.2 OM equipment frequency 2182 KHz and 2187.5 KHz.

Just like in Zone A1, and regardless of whether there is Zone A1 within Zone A2 or not, there
has, at a minimum, a tuned AM radio set to the frequency of 2,187.5 kHz of LSD, another
on 2.182 KHz. (radiotelephony), plus a third for complementary tasks.
On the other hand, the entire area must be under the coverage of at least one station of the Service.
NAVTEX.

At the Rescue Centers or at the Coastal Stations from which these teams operate the
listen at 2.187.5 KHz, it has the same technical and operational characteristics as those described for the
channel 70, and also that of 2.182 Khz., regarding channel 16.

C.3 Radiotelephone procedures with and without LLsD for distress communications.
generalities.
Emergency communications are based on the use of terrestrial radio communications on waves.
hectometric, decametric and metric measurements and communications carried out using satellite techniques.
Emergency communications will have absolute priority over any other type of communication.
The following will be applicable:
a) The emergency alert is a selective digital call (LLsD) that uses the call format of
help in the bands used for terrestrial radiocommunications, or a message format
of emergency, in which case it will be retransmitted through space stations.
b) The emergency call is the procedure of the initial text.
c) The emergency message is the procedure of text or voice following the alert or the call
of help.
d) The retransmission of the distress alert is a transmission in LLSD on behalf of another station.
e) The retransmission of the emergency call is the initial voice or text procedure of a
station that is not in danger.

The distress call will be sent over the designated distress and safety frequencies in the bands.
of hectometric, decametric, and metric waves for radiotelephony.
The alert or distress call and the subsequent messages can only be transmitted by order of
the person responsible for the ship, the aircraft or any other vehicle carrying the mobile station or
the mobile ground station.
The stations that receive an alert or a distress call transmitted by the frequencies
of rescue and safety in the hectometric, decametric, and metric wave bands will cease
immediately all transmissions that may disturb emergency traffic will be prepared for the
subsequent emergency traffic.
The transmissions by radiotelephony will be done slowly, separating the words and pronouncing
clearly each of them, in order to facilitate its transcription.
They should be used, when applicable, the chart for spelling letters and figures from Appendix 14 and the
abbreviations and signals according to the latest version of the ITU Recommendation, which is found in the
page 26 and whose knowledge is necessary for the exam.
S.O.S. ALERT AND CALL FOR HELP.
The transmission of a distress alert or a distress call indicates that a mobile unit or a
people are threatened by a serious and imminent danger and need immediate assistance.
The emergency alert will contain the identification of the station in danger and indicate its situation.

It is considered that a false emergency alert was transmitted without indication that a mobile unit
or a person was in danger and needed immediate assistance. The administrations that receive a
false distress alert they will report this violation if that alert:
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 45

a) it was transmitted involuntarily;

b) it was not canceled in accordance with the Regulation.
c) it could not be verified, due to the fact that the ships were not listening on the frequencies
appropriate, in accordance with the numbers or did not respond to the calls of an authority
competent rescue.
d) was repeated; or
e) it was transmitted using a false identity.
The administrations that receive this communication will take the necessary measures so that the
The offense will not be repeated. Normally, no measures will be taken against the ship or the sailor who transmits.
and I canceled a false alarm for help.

TRANSMISSION OF A DISTRESS ALERT OR A DISTRESS CALL BY A

BOAT STATION OR A LAND STATION FOR BOAT.
The distress alert or the distress call ship-to-shore is used to notify the centers of
rescue coordination, through a coastal station or a coastal ground station, which
A ship is in danger. These alerts are based on the use of satellite transmissions.
(from a ship ground station or a satellite distress beacon) and from
land services (from boat stations and distress location beacons).
The distress alerts ship-ship are used to notify other ships that are in the
proximidades del que está en peligro y se basan en el uso de la llamada selectiva digital en las bandas de
metric and hectometric waves. The decametric wave band can also be used.
The ship stations equipped to use the selective calling procedures (LLSD)
they will be able to transmit calls and emergency messages immediately after sending the
SOS alert to attract the attention of as many ship stations as possible.
Emergency call and message.
The barcono stations equipped to use digital selective calling procedures.
They will initiate, if possible, distress communications transmitting calls and distress messages through
radiotelephony on the frequency 156.8 MHz (channel 16 of metric waves).
The radio telephone distress signal consists of the word MAYDAY, pronounced 'meidei'.

CALL FOR HELP.

The distress call sent on the frequency 156.8 MHz should be made as follows:

CANAL FORMAT0 EXAMPLE

MAYDAY(MEIDEI),MAYDAY(MEIDEI),MAYDAY
The distress signal "MAYDAY", transmitted three times
(MEIDEI)

The word 'THIS IS' or HERE or DELTA ECHO THIS IS

CHANNEL 16 The name of the ship in danger, transmitted three times ALBATROS VESSEL, ALBATROS, ALBATROS

The call sign or any other signal of

Identification or the MMSI (if the initial alert has been sent EA3456 (ECHO ALFA......)
by LLSD).

OVER or CHANGE CHANGE

46 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

S.O.S MESSAGE
The emergency message that follows the emergency call should be given in the following manner:

CANAL FORMAT0 EXAMPLE

The distress signal 'MAYDAY' MAYDAY (MEIDEI)

The name of the ship in danger Albatross

The call sign or any other signal of

identification or the MMSI (if the initial alert has been sent With the identifier EA3456 (Echo, Alfa….)
by LLSD)

the position in latitude and longitude or, if the latitude and longitude do not
they meet or if there is not enough time, with My situation is: Latitude: 35º 55.6'N; Longitude: 06º 14.8'W
regarding a known geographic point
CHANNEL 16
Waterway - we have collided with a container-
The nature of danger imminent sinking - we abandon the vessel
and we boarded the lifeboat.

The type of assistance required We require urgent rescue

We are five crew members including the Captain. There is no

Any other useful information wounded. The raft is launched and we are going to board.
she in a very short time.

OVER or CHANGE CHANGE

Note - As paradoxical as the distress call may seem, it does not include the situation of the ship, nor
the nature of danger. This is due to the fact that in the distress call, above those
The essential thing is to give the MAYDAY and upon giving the 'Change' wait for a response to ensure.
that someone is listening to us. That is why the situation and the nature of the danger are given in the message.
of course.

S.O.S. ALERT.
Digital selective calling procedures use a combination of automated functions and
manual intervention to generate the emergency call format.
The emergency alert sent by selective digital call consists of one or more attempts of
distress alert in which a message format is transmitted identifying the station in danger
and its last recorded position and, if known, the nature of the danger. In hectometric waves and
decametric, distress alert attempts can be sent on one frequency or multiple
frequencies, up to six frequencies in a minute. In wave metrics, they can only be carried out.
call attempts on a single frequency.
The alerts will automatically repeat at random intervals, approximately every 4 minutes.
until a receipt notice is received for digital selective calls.

Exclusive format for distress alerts

An unalert desocorros emits on channel 70 of metric waves (vHF) - 156.525 MHz - channel
exclusively intended for rescue and safety. The distress alert includes the following
information
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 47

1. Alert format: SOS or Distress is automatically included and appears on the screens.
from the radio equipment equipped with LLSD that receive the alert.
2. Self-identification: the alert includes the MMSI which allows identifying the ship in danger and
It also appears automatically as it is programmed into the device.
3. Nature of the danger: selected by the operator from a list that collects twelve
incidentes, tal y como se muestra al final de este [Link] nose introduce este dato, la
information that will be sent will be, 'unknown danger'.
This data is of transcendental importance for determining the rescue means that
must be made available by the rescue devices or any
vessel that, sailing in the area of the incident, could provide assistance.

List and codes of incidents scheduled on LsD equipment

100 Fire, explosion Fire, explosion 106 Without government and adrift Disabled
101 Flood, waterway Flooding 107 Undefined danger Undesignated
102 Collision Collision 108 Abandonment Abandoning
103 Varada Grounding 109 Piracy Piracy
104 Listing on the verge of capsizing 110 Man overboard (*) Man overboard
105 Shipwreck Sinking 111 Radiobeacon emission
In the SMSSM, 'man overboard' has the category of rescue.

Boat position: it automatically includes if the radio equipment is connected to the system.
on-board satellite navigation (GPS). This condition is mandatory on all vessels.
Spanish teams that have VHF and OM equipment with LLSD.
It can be entered manually by the operator, but the LLSD loses a large part of its effectiveness.
and credibility, especially in the field of recreational boating, when operating the system people not
professionals, with little experience and subjected to a situation of maximum stress.
If the position is not provided, the message 'no information about the situation' will appear.
4. Time: expresses the time of the provided geographical coordinates. As long as the
If the position is valid, it will be shown. Otherwise, what will be sent will consist of four eights.
(8888) or 'no information about the time'.
6. Subsequent communication: informs about the channel or frequency on which it will next be broadcast
the ship in danger to start the "relief traffic"

TRANSMISSION AND RECEPTION OF SOS ALERTS

Transmission of distress alerts

As seen earlier, the transmission of an alert
the rescue contains the necessary information for the
coastal stations and the ships that receive them, know about the
iwho is asking for help, what danger are they in, what is their
geographical situation and the time at which the incident occurs.
In VHF, the aim is to ensure its reception, the alert of
rescue repeats automatically at intervals of about
Rescue alerts are generated through the
4 minutes until a coastal station or Sasemar report pressing the red button labeled DANGER,
I receive or manually interrupt the distress alert. sOsoDIsTREss, located on the panel of
control of communication equipment.
48 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

SEQUENCE OF THE TRANSMISSION OF A DISTRESS ALERT IN LSD

1 2

1 - Enlarged image of the equipment on standby, with continuous monitoring on C16. The upper liquid crystal screen shows us
shows the channel, volume and squelch for use in conventional voice communications (radiotelephony).
Although the screen only shows channel 16, the equipment is automatically and permanently listening to channel 70.
The bottom screen shows us the position of our boat in coordinates (latitude and longitude), the date and time, and the MMSI for the
communications in Digital Selective Calling (DSC). The GPS and the radio are connected to each other and thus, the VHF reproduces
the position of our ship that can be sent automatically. 2 - Let’s imagine: a way has been created
water on board that will force us to abandon the ship. a) We open the protective cover of the DISTRESS button (Help) and
With a quick click on the red button, the types of incidents appear on the lower liquid crystal screen. b) Search-
we abandon the incident and select it. c) From that moment on, in our screen, in addition to all the
data of our ship will also include the type of incident. d) The Distress is ready to be sent.

3 4

3 - We press the Distress button for 5 seconds. On the screen, we see the countdown. 1 second left for
send the Distress. If we stopped pressing the red button, the Distress would not be sent. 4 - The Distress has been sent to
C 70, distress channel for LSD. The bottom part of the screen indicates that the distress has been transmitted.
(Distress transmitted) and the Acknowledgment (Ack= acknowledgement) from the Station is awaited.
Coastal or Maritime Rescue. The screen also informs about the possibility of canceling the Distress by pressing-
press for 5 seconds, the button of that appears under
Menu the liquid crystal screen. This would happen if, for example,
we would have managed to plug the waterway.

It is recommended that the boat stations equipped to use LLSD procedures,

possible transmission, distress calls and messages via radiotelephony on Channel 16,
immediately after sending the distress alert by LLSD and this, with the aim of attracting the
attention to the maximum number of possible boat stations.

RECEPTION AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF EMERGENCY ALERTS OR EMERGENCY CALLS.

Procedure for acknowledging receipt of emergency call alerts.
The acknowledgment of receipt of a distress alert, including the retransmission of a distress alert,
it will be done in accordance with the alert transmission method and within the time frame
corresponding to the function of the alert's receiving station. The acknowledgment by satellite is
will send immediately.
When acknowledgment is made of a distress alert sent by digital selective calling, the acknowledgment in the
ground services will be done via digital selective calling, radiotelephony, or direct print telegraphy
narrowband, depending on the circumstances, by the associated emergency and safety frequency in the
same band through which the distress alert was received.
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 49

Receipt of SELECTIVE DIGITAL CALL (LLsD).

The acknowledgment of receipt for a digital selective call of an emergency alert sent by call
digital selective aimed at mobile maritime service stations will be directed to all stations.

Reception and acknowledgment of the alert for help

LLSD equipment incorporates an audio frequency alarm that emits an acoustic signal when
A distress call is received.

Reception and acknowledgment of receipt by a Coastal Station

The coastal stations that receive an alert or a distress call will acknowledge receipt of them.
immediately.
The acknowledgment of receipt of the distress alert will be transmitted in the same.
frequency at which the alert or call has been received and will have all the boats as desti-
natarios (All ships call).
The acknowledgment of receipt will include the identification of the ship that transmitted the alert or the distress call.
The acknowledgment of receipt in LLSD by the coastal station will cancel the automatic repetition of the
distress alert.
Reception and acknowledgment of receipt by a Ship Station
The ships that receive a distress alert must remain vigilant and silent while waiting.
that a coastal station or a Maritime Rescue Center acknowledges receipt, while at the same time
they prepare to give their own, in radiotelephony tuning to Channel 16.
The boats will in no case acknowledge receipt through digital selective calls, even
Emergency alert received at C 70.

RECEPTION OF A DISTRESS ALERT BY A SHIP STATION

AND I ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT FOR COASTAL STATION

5 6

Note.- these two images are a continuation of the sequence 1-4 described on the previous page.
5 - This radio equipment belongs to another vessel navigating in an area not far from the stricken ship. The equipment is
emitting emergency beeps and on the bottom screen the pattern can read the Distress coming from the vessel with MMSI
225324875. They also verify that the incident is abandonment, so they presume that the crew will, very soon, be found.
will bring on board a lifeboat. This vessel is waiting to see the confirmation of the Distress by
the coastal or of Sasemar and as a preventive measure can head towards the stricken ship to buy time. This ship
or any other must avoid issuing an acknowledgment of receipt in LLsD unless they operate in areas that are not
possible reliable communications with a coastal station and observing everything pointed out in this regard at that time
Page 20 6 -Aboard the stricken ship, we are pleased to observe that a coastal station (002241024 Valencia Radio) indicates
receipt of our distress call as we read on the screen DistressAck. The message is sent to all ships, (Call
general - All ships call) and it will be received by all the ships that are within the VHF coverage area. Acknowledgment received
Upon receipt (Ack) from the coastal station, the ship that was waiting can transmit its message on C16. Then the...
rescue operations directed by the coast or Sasemar on Channel 16 (voice).
50 SHORT-RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

RECEIPT BY RADIO TELEPHONY.

Upon receiving by radiotelephony a distress alert or a distress call
coming from a ship station or from a ground ship station, the acknowledgment of receipt will be given
as follows:

CANAL FORMAT0 EXAMPLE

The distress signal 'MAYDAY' MAYDAY

The name followed by the call sign, or the MMSI or

another identification signal of the station that transmits the Albatross, with the identifier EA3456 (Echo, Alpha...)
message of help

The word "THIS IS", HERE or DELTAECHO (OF) HERE

CHANNEL 16
The name and call sign or other signal of
The Peregrina with the identifier EC6789 (Echo, Charlie….)
identification of the station that acknowledges receipt

The word 'RECEIVED' RECEIVED

The distress signal 'MAYDAY' MEIDEI

OVER or CHANGE CHANGE

Reception and acknowledgment of receipt by a coastal station, a coastal ground station or a center
of rescue coordination.
The coastal stations and the appropriate coastal ground stations that receive alerts of
Emergency calls or distress calls will be forwarded as soon as possible to a coordination center.
rescue.
In addition, the acknowledgment of receipt of a distress alert or a distress call must be made as soon as possible.
as soon as possible by a coastal station, or by a rescue coordination center through a
coastal station or a suitable coastal ground station.
Receipt for a station on the coast of a distress alert due to digital selective calling.
It will be transmitted on the distress call frequency where the alert has been received
rescue will be directed to all ships.
The acknowledgment of receipt will include the identification of the ship to which the distress alert referred to in the acknowledgment of receipt applies.

Reception and acknowledgment of receipt by a ship station or ship ground station

The boat stations or land stations of the boat that receive a distress alert or a
Emergency call, they must inform the captain or responsible person of its content as soon as possible.
from the boat.

In areas where secure communications can be established with one or more stations
coastal, the boat stations that have received a distress alert or a call for help
Help coming from another ship must defer its receipt for a short interval.
In time for a coastal station to acknowledge receipt first.
The shipping stations that receive a distress call via radio telephony on the frequency
from 156.8 MHz (channel 16 of metric waves) must, if there is no coastal station or other ship
acknowledge receipt within five minutes, acknowledge receipt to the ship in danger and use
every media is within reach to retransmit the emergency call to a coastal station or
appropriate coastal ground station
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 51

SPECIAL Case: Receipt and acknowledgment of receipt by a ship station or ground station
from the ship still alert for help in LLsD

The boat stations that operate in areas where communications are not possible.
they had a coastal station, and they would receive an emergency alert or a call from
help coming from a ship station that is undoubtedly in its vicinity,
They will communicate acknowledgment of receipt to the ship in danger and will inform as soon as possible if they are.
adequately equipped, a rescue coordination center through a station
coastal cost of a coastal ground station.
The ship station that acknowledges receipt of a distress alert sent by selective calling.
digital, in accordance must:
First of all, acknowledge receipt of the distress alert via radio-telephony in the
traffic frequency of emergency and security of the band used to transmit the alert,
taking into account any possible instruction from a coastal station that responds.
if it is not possible to acknowledge receipt via radio telephone of the distress alert received in the
frequency of the distress alert of the hectometric or metric wave bands will indicate
receipt of the distress alert responding with a selective digital call in the
appropriate frequency.
However, unless a coastal station or a coordination center indicates otherwise
rescue, a ship station can only send an acknowledgment for
digital selective call when:
It has not been confirmed that a coastal station has sent an acknowledgment of receipt by call.
digital selective.
No radio communications have been confirmed to or from the vessel.
danger
At least five minutes have passed, and the distress alert by call has been repeated.
selectiva digital.
The ship station that has received a distress alert or a
coastal-ship distress call retransmission will establish communication as indicated
and will provide the assistance that is requested and that is appropriate.

PREPARATION FOR THE TREATMENT OF EMERGENCY TRAFFIC.

Upon receiving a distress alert or a distress call, the ship stations and the stations
coastal stations will listen in on the frequency designated for emergency radiotelephone traffic and
security associated with the frequency of distress calls and security in which they have received it
distress alert.
General coordination and communication of search and rescue.
The coordination center for rescue in charge of directing a search operation and
rescue will also direct traffic related to the incident or may designate
another station to do it.
The rescue coordination center that coordinates the emergency traffic, the unit that coordinates the
search and rescue operations or the participating coastal station may impose silence
to the stations that disrupt that traffic. Such instructions will be directed to all the stations or to
one only, depending on the case. In both cases, the following will be used:

a) In radiotelephony, the signal SILENCE MAYDAY, pronounced like the French words 'silence
help me
52 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

It is prohibited for all stations that have knowledge of a rescue traffic, and that do not
they are not taking part in it nor are they in danger, transmit on the frequencies in which it is taking place
el tráfico desocorro, en tanto no reciban el mensaje que indique que puede reanudarse el tráfico
normal.
The mobile service station that, without stopping to follow a rescue traffic, is located in
Conditions to continue your normal service, you may do so when it does not disrupt emergency traffic.
When the emergency traffic ceases on the frequencies that have been used for such traffic,
the station that has directed the search and rescue operation will initiate a message for its
send on these frequencies indicating that the emergency traffic has ended.
In radiotelephony, the message referred to must include:

CANAL FORMAT0 EXAMPLE

The distress signal "MAYDAY" MAYDAY

The words "ALL STATIONS", transmitted three times ALL STATIONS

THIS IS THIS IS

The name of the station that sends that message,

SASEMAR; SASEMAR; SASEMAR;
transmitted three times
CHANNEL 16
The call sign or other identification signal of the
With MMSI 022435831
station that transmits the message

The time of message deposit 14:22 UTC

The MMSI (if the initial alert was sent via LLSD), the
name and the call sign of the mobile station that MMSI 225234581
was in danger

The words 'sILENCE FINI' pronounced like the

FINISHED SILENCE
finished silence

Communications at the site of the incident.

Communications at the scene of the incident are those established between the mobile unit in danger and
the mobile assistance units, and between these and the unit that coordinates the search operations and
salvation.

The unit that coordinates search and rescue operations is responsible for the control of the
communications at the site of the incident. simplex communications will be used, so that all
the mobile stations at the site of the incident can share the relevant information
regarding the relief situation.

The preferred frequencies in radiotelephony for communications at the scene of the incident
They are 156.8 MHz and 2182 kHz. Calling and distress frequencies in VHF radiotelephony and wave.
Media (OM) respectively.
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 53

C.4 Radiotelephone procedures with and without LLsD for emergency communications
security.
These communications are the following:
a) Nautical and meteorological notices and urgent information;
b) Ship-to-ship communications related to navigation safety;
c) Communications for notifying information related to the ships;
d) Support communications for search and rescue operations;
e) Other urgent and safety messages; and
f) Communications related to navigation, movements, and the needs of ships
meteorological observation messages intended for an official meteorological service.
Emergency communications will take priority over any other type of communications.
except for the emergency ones.

Security communications will take precedence over any other type of communications,
except for emergency and urgent care.

The following terms are used:

The urgent announcement is a selective digital call in which a format is used.
emergency call in the bands used for terrestrial radiocommunications or a format
of urgency message, in which case it is retransmitted through space stations.
The emergency call is the procedure for initial text or voice.
c) The emergency message is the subsequent text or voice procedure.

In an earthly system, emergency communications consist of:

An announcement, transmitted through digital selective calls,
followed by the call and the urgent message transmitted via radiotelephony.
The announcement of the urgent message will be made on one or more of the distress calling frequencies.
and security already specified, using either the selective digital call format and the format
emergency call or, in the case of being unavailable, the radio telephone procedures and the
emergency signal.
If the urgent message is to be transmitted via the mobile maritime satellite service, there will be no need to
make a separate announcement.
The ship stations not equipped to use selective calling procedures.
They will be able to announce a call and an emergency message transmitting the emergency signal for
radiotelephony on the frequency 156.8 MHz (channel 16), considering that it is possible that others
stations outside the range of metric waves do not receive the announcement.
In the maritime mobile service, emergency communications can be directed to all stations or
to a particular station. When digital selective calling techniques are used, the announcement of
urgency will indicate how often the following message will be sent and, in case of
A message addressed to all stations will use the format 'Allships'.
Emergency announcements from a coastal station can also be directed to a group
of ships or to the ships of a defined geographical area.
The emergency signal is formed by the words PAN PAN. In radiotelephony, each of those
words will be pronounced like the French word 'panne' (in Spanish 'pan').
The emergency call format and the emergency signal indicate that the calling station has
that conveys a very urgent message regarding the safety of a mobile unit or of a
person
54 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

Emergency call

In radiotelephony, on the selected working frequency, the emergency call consists of

next:
CANAL FORMAT0 EXAMPLE

The urgency signal 'PAN PAN', transmitted three times "PAN PAN"; "PAN PAN"; "PAN PAN";

The name of the station called or 'ALL STATIONS',

ALL STATIONS; ALL STATIONS; ALL STATIONS;
transmitted three times

THE WORD 'THIS IS', HERE or DELTAECHO THIS IS

CHANNEL 16 The name of the station that transmits the message of Albatross; Albatross; Albatross;
urgency, transmitted three times

The call sign or any other identification With the identifier EA3456 (Echo, Alpha......)

The MMSI (if the initial announcement was sent via LLSD) followed
of the urgency message or the details of the channel that
Step to channel 72 (seven-two) for message transmission
it will be used to send the message, in case it
you are going to use a work channel.

URGENT CALL AND MESSAGE

In radiotelephony, on the selected working frequency, the call and the urgent message
consist of the following:

CANAL FORMAT0 EXAMPLE

The urgency signal 'PAN PAN', transmitted three times "PAN PAN"; "PAN PAN"; "PAN PAN";

The name of the station called or "ALL STATIONS"

ALL STATIONS; ALL STATIONS; ALL STATIONS;
broadcast three times

THE WORD "THIS IS", HERE or DELTAECHO THIS IS

CANAL 72 The name of the station that transmits the message of

Albatross; Albatross; Albatross;
urgency, transmitted three times

The call sign or any other identification With the distinctive EA3456 (Echo, Alpha…….)

The MMSI (if the initial announcement was sent via LLSD)

Man overboard at Latitude 36º 15' N;

The text of the urgency message.
Longitude 006º 14' W we begin the search maneuver.

The emergency call format or the emergency signal can only be transmitted by order of the
person responsible for the boat, aircraft or any other vehicle transporting the mobile station
or the mobile ground station.
The ship stations that receive an emergency announcement or a call directed to all the
stations will not acknowledge receipt.

The coastal and ship stations that establish communications over frequencies different from the
used for the transmission of the emergency signal or the subsequent message may continue
normally with their work uninterrupted, as long as the urgency message is not affecting them
directed nor has it been sent to all stations.
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 55

SECURITY COMMUNICATIONS.
The following terms are used:
The announcement of security is a selective call in which a format is used
security call in the bands used for terrestrial radio communications or a format
of security message, in which case it is retransmitted through space stations.
b) The call of security is the initial text or voice procedure.
c) The security message is the subsequent text or voice procedure.
In a terrestrial system, security communications consist of a security announcement.
transmitted by digital selective call, followed by the call and the security message
transmitted by radiotelephony, direct narrowband printing, or data transmission.
The announcement of the security message will be made on one or more distress call frequencies.
and security, using either digital selective calling techniques and the calling format of
security or the radiotelephony procedures and the security signal.
However, in order to avoid unnecessarily overloading the distress and safety call frequencies
specified for use with digital selective calling techniques:
a) selective digital calling techniques should not be used to transmit security messages
sent by coastal stations according to the defined schedules;
b) radio telephony procedures must be used to announce safety messages
that concern only the vessels that sail in the vicinity.
In addition, the un-equipped boat stations to use the calling procedures.
Selective digital can announce a security message by transmitting the security call.
by radiotelephony. In this case, the announcement will be transmitted on the frequency 156.8 MHz (channel 16
the wave metrics), taking into account that it is possible that other stations outside of
the band of metric waves does not receive the announcement.

In the maritime mobile service, safety messages will generally be addressed to all.
stations.
In some cases, however, they may be directed to a specific station. When using the
digital selective calling techniques, the safety announcement will indicate which frequency will be used
to send the subsequent message and, in case it is sent to all stations, the will be used
All boats
In the maritime mobile service, whenever possible, the safety message will be transmitted in a
work frequency on the same band(s) used for the announcement or security call.
At the end of the security call, there will be an indication regarding this. When there is no other option
If possible, the safety message can be sent via radiotelephony on the frequency 156.8 MHz.
(channel 16 of metric waves).
The security signal consists of the word ECURITE, pronounced in radiotelephony as in
French.
The security call format or security signal indicates that the calling station
You need to transmit an important nautical or meteorological notice.
56 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

SECURITY CALL

The complete security call consists of the following:

CANAL FORMAT0 EXAMPLE

The safety signal 'SECURITE', transmitted three times 'sECuRITE'; 'sECuRITE'; 'sECuRITE';

The name of the station called or 'ALL STATIONS',

ALL STATIONS; ALL STATIONS; ALL STATIONS;
transmitted three times

THE WORD "THIS IS", HERE or DELTAECHO DELTA ECHO

CHANNEL 16 The name of the station that transmits the message of Albatross; Albatross; Albatross;
security, transmitted three times

The call sign or any other identification With registration EA3456 (Echo, Alpha…….)

The MMSI (if the initial announcement was sent via LLSD), followed by
of the security message or the details of the channel that
Switch to channel 72 (seven-two) to transmit message
it will be used to send the message, in case it
you are going to use a work channel

CALL AND URGENT MESSAGE

In radiotelephony, on the selected working frequency, the call and the security message
consist of the following:

CHANNEL FORMAT0 EXAMPLE

The safety signal 'SECURITE', transmitted three times 'sECuRITE'; 'sECuRITE'; 'sECuRITE';

The name of the station called or "ALL STATIONS" TO ALL THE STATIONS
broadcast three times ["STATIONS","TO ALL STATIONS"]

THE WORD 'THIS IS', HERE or DELTAECHO HERE

The name of the station that broadcasts the message of

CHANNEL 72 security, transmitted three times Albatross; Albatross; Albatross;

The call sign or any other identification With the identifier EA3456 (Echo, Alpha…….)

The MMSI (if the initial announcement was sent via LLSD)

Drifting container sighted at Latitude 35º 58'3 N;

The text of the security message. Longitude 008º 27'4 W. It moves on true heading.
89º at half a knot of estimated speed

The shipping stations that receive a security announcement using calling techniques
digital selective and the format 'All boats', or that it is directed to all stations, no
they will acknowledge receipt.
The boat stations that receive a safety announcement or a call and a message from
security will monitor the indicated frequency or channel for the message and will remain alert until
check that the message does not concern you. They will not make any transmission that could interfere.
with the message.
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 57

C.5 Testing of VHF and HF equipment with and without DSC used for distress calls and
security.
These calls can be transmitted on VHF, HF, and OC, keeping in mind that they should be avoided as much as possible.
as far as possible, especially at the frequency of 2.187.5 kHz.
Although tests can be carried out between ships, it is advisable to conduct them with a coastal station.
Test calls can be made manually, but in order to simplify the operation, the
devices offer the possibility of transmitting them automatically (recommended), requiring only
the introduction of the MMSI of the coastal station or the ship with which the test will be carried out, plus the
selection of frequency.
All these calls contain the category of 'security' and the specification 'Individual' (Call
to a specific station), and they are completed when the coastal station or the ship with which it is done
the essay, acknowledges receipt thereof.
Operational procedure:
Place the equipment on the channel or frequency where the test will be conducted.
Through the corresponding menu, select 'External Test' or equivalent.
Enter the MMSI of the coastal station or the ship being called.
Check that there is no other transmission in progress on the channel or frequency.
Transmit the call and wait for the acknowledgment of receipt.
The call containing the acknowledgment of receipt is similar to the test call and can also be made from
automatic form; once received, no further communications are required.

C.6 Provisions and procedures for routine calls between ships and shore-vessels.
GeneralProcedure
The first consideration to keep in mind when calling a coastal station or another ship is
to check that the channel or frequency intended for communication is free, that
There is no ongoing communication.
On the other hand, when it comes to linking with a coastal station, the call, as a general rule,
in general, it must be carried out in one of its working channels, channels or frequencies that, evidently,
we will need to know beforehand, so we must have this information on board, either
through official publications, such as the 'nomenclature of coastal stations' that
edit the 'International Telecommunication Union (ITU)', either through brochures that
facilitate the companies that exploit public mail maritime services.
Once it has been verified that the channel or frequency is not occupied, the calling procedure will be the
next
The name or the indication of the station called repeated three times.
The word 'here'.
The name or the call sign of the station calling repeated three times.
The word 'change'.

EXAMPLE OF A CALL TO A COASTAL STATION

CANAL MESSAGES

VALENCIA RADIO, VALENCIA, RADIO, VALENCIA RADIO

CHANNEL 16
HERE THE VESSEL ALBATROSS, ALBATROSS, ALBATROSS / DO YOU HEAR ME? OVER

ALBATROSS VESSEL / I RECEIVED YOU LOUD AND CLEAR

CHANNEL 16
SWITCH TO CHANNEL 23, TWO, THREE AND STAY ON THE LINE / OVER

CHANNEL 16 RECEIVED VALENCIA RADIO / I REMAIN LISTENING ON CHANNEL 23

CHANNEL 23 ALBATROSS, ALBATROSS, ALBATROSS / THIS IS VALENCIA RADIO / DO YOU COPY? OVER
58 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

Depending on the propagation conditions and the 'cleanness of the ether' (absence of atmospheric noise)
spherical or other interferences), the call can be shortened by repeating only the names twice.
both stations, and even at once, a practice that is advisable in VHF, given the excellent
conditions that this frequency band usually presents.

When for any reason it is necessary to spell out, the internal phonetic code must be used.
In communications with the coastal stations, it is these that 'direct' the traffic and the
ships must adhere to their recommendations.

PHONETIC ALPHABET AND PRONUNCIATION OF THE NUMBERS

LYRICS WORD PRONUNCIATION LYRICS WORD PRONUNCIATION

A Alfa AL FA N November I DO NOT SEE YOU

B Bravo I love you O Oscar OS CAR

C Charlic CHAR LI P Dad PAPA

D Delta DELTA Q Quebec WHAT BEK

E Echo AND CO R Romco RO ME O

F Foxtrot FOX TROT S Sierra ITISSERIOUS

G Golf GOLF T Tango TAN GO

H Hotel THEY TELL U Uniform IU NI FORM

I India IN DAY V Victor VIC TOR

J Juliett YU LI AND W Whiskey UIS KI

K Kilo WHAT IS IT X X-ray EKS KING

L Lima Li Ma Y Yankee IAN KI

M Mike MA IK Z Zulu TO THE

NOTE: The accented syllables are underlined.

NUMBER WORD PRONUNCIATION NUMBER WORD PRONUNCIATION

0 I substitute NA-DA-SE-RC 6 Soxisix SO-SI-SICS

1 One U-NA-UAN 7 Setteseven SET-TE-SEVN

2 Bissolwo BIS-SO-IU 8 Okioeight OK-TO-EIT

3 Terrathree TE-RA-TRI 9 Novenine NO-VE-NAIN

4 Carrefour CARD GAME Decimal comma Decimal DECIMAL

5 Panta five PANTAFIVE Punta tinal Stop STOP

NOTE - The same intonation should be given to each syllable.

Some tips
A good part of the success of a communication depends on the antenna used and is of little or no value with
having the best and most powerful equipment, if the one being connected is not the appropriate one or its physical state and/or
electric, is not in good condition.

Never operate with wet clothes or damp footwear. In both cases, one runs the risk
the risk of electric shock or radiofrequency. In addition, in the first case, as water slides down the
The raincoat or the hoodie can fall on the equipment and damage it.

In case of a thunderstorm, it is advisable to ground the antennas, or, if not possible,

disconnect them from the equipment. (It is difficult for a lightning bolt to hit a ship, but it is easy for
download next, and the consequences can be disastrous for the devices).
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 59

C.7 Procedure for canceling the involuntary transmission of false alarms.

A ship that unintentionally transmits a distress signal must, if the onboard equipment
It provides the option for 'LSD self-cancellation' in its 'menu', proceed to send this notification.
passing next to transmit by radiotelephony, the following message on channel 16, a message that,
not having the mentioned function on the team, it must be reported initially.

CANCELLATION OF A DISTRESS OR SOS ALERT

Distress Transmitted Menu Pressed Menu Pressed

Waiting for Distress Ack Distress cancelled in
Press Menu for 5 4 Distress cancelled
seconds to cancel seconds

1- With perhaps hasty attitude in the face of a water leak, we have launched a Distress in LSD. On the screen, in addition to info-
We are told that the team is waiting for the acknowledgment of receipt from the Coast Guard or Rescue, and it also indicates to us that if we press the key
for 5 seconds we will cancel the Distress. 2- The pattern has been informed that the waterway has been successfully blocked and
decide to cancel the Distress by pressing the button 3- The Distress has been canceled. It is highly recommended to proceed, to with-
continuation, to cancel it as well, by voice, in C16.

The issuance of false alerts is a violation of the Radiocommunications Regulations.

the corresponding report. However, if the alert is canceled immediately, the
The corresponding administration will not sanction us.

SECTION D.
PROCEDURES FOR THE EXPLOITATION AND REGULATION OF COMMUNICATIONS
Radio Telephony.
D.1 MARITIME RADIO COMMUNICATION CENTERS (CCR's)
Since October 2009, the company Abertis Telecom has taken on the provision of the 'Communication Service-
"Rescue Notifications for the Safety of Human Life at Sea." This service includes the communications-
safety and emergency communications for the different maritime navigation areas, as well as the
establishment and maintenance of the Coastal Station Network and Communication Centers
Maritime Radios.
The Abertis Telecom service includes continuous monitoring of maritime distress channels.
24 hours a day and 364 days a year, in addition to broadcasting weather bulletins and alerts
to the navigators.

The new network implemented by Abertis Telecom includes three types of centers:
6 CCRs located in Bilbao, La Coruña, Málaga, Valencia, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and Las Palmas
From these control centers, the operators - 12 per center - carry out monitoring 365 x 24 of
the rescue channels.
Similarly, 35 Coastal Stations operate in the VHF band to cover a strip of coastal waters.
terrains of at least 35 miles.
- Other 9 Coastal Stations operate in the Medium Wave (OM/MF) band with a coverage of
up to 150 miles.
60 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

Finally, the network is completed with a Short Wave Transmit-Receive Station with coverage.
of greater scope that includes the African coastline, an area with a strong presence of Spanish fishing fleets.

ZONE A1 OF VHF RADIO TELEPHONE COVERAGE

CANAL CANAL
COASTAL STATION DuPLEX SIMPLEX Coastal Station Duplex SIMPLEX

PASSAGES 27 6 CARTAGENA 27 6
BILBAO 26 74 Cape La Nao 85 74
SANTANDER 24 72 CASTELLÓN 28 72
Cabo Peñas 27 6 TARRAGONA 24 6
NAVIA 62 74 BARCELONA 60 74
Cape Ortegal 2 72 BEGUR 23 6
CORUÑA 26 6 Cadaqués 27 72
FINISTERRE 22 74 MENORCA 85 6
VIGO 20 6 PALMA 7 72
THE GUARD 82 72 IBIZA 3 6
Huelva 26 6 LAPALMA 20 6
CADIZ 28 74 IRON 23 74
TARIFF 83 6 GOMERA 24 6
MALAGA 26 72 Tenerife 27 72
MOTRIL 81 74 THE PALMS 26 74
CABO DE GATA 24 72 FUERTEVENTURA 22 6
YAIZA 3 74
MELILLA 25 6
LAVA 25 72

EMISSION OF METEOROLOGICAL BULLETINS IN VHF

Broadcast Schedule BROADCAST SCHEDULE
Station FROM THE BULLETINS STATION FROM THE BULLETINS
CANAL CANAL
COsTERA Meteorological COsTERA Meteorological
HOUR (uTC) TIME (UTC)
PASSAGES 27 CARTAGENA 27
BILBAO 26 Cape La Nao 85
08:40 12:40 20:10
SANTANDER 24 CASTELLÓN 28
CAPE PEÑAS 27 TARRAGONA 24
NAVIA 62 BARCELONA 60
09:10 14:10 21:10
Cape Ortegal 2 Begur 23
La Coruña 26 Cadaqués 27
08:40 12:40 20:10
FINISTERRE 22 MENORCA 85
VIGO 20 PALM 7
THE GUARD 82 IBIZA 3
Huelva 26 LAPALMA 20
CÁDIZ 28 IRON 23
TARIF 83 GOMERA 24
MALAGA 26 TENERIFE 27
08:33 11:33 20:03 08:33 13:33 20:33
MOTRIL 81 THE PALMS 26
GATA CAP 24 Fuerteventura 22
YAIZA 3
MELILLA 25
LAVADEO 25
 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR 61

Transmission of Notices to Navigators in VHF

Notices to Navigators Navigational Notices
STATION STATION
vHF vHF
COsTERA COsTERA
TIME (UTC) HORA (uTC)
PASSAGES CARTAGENA
BILBAO 10:03 19:33 Cabo the Ship 10:45 19:03
SANTANDER CASTELLÓN
PENINSULA POINT TARRAGONA
NAVIA BARCELONA
10:15 18:33
Cape Ortegal BEGUR
CORUÑA 09:45 19:03 Cadaqués
FINISTERRE MENORCA
VIGO PALMA 10:45 19:03
THE GUARD IBIZA
Huelva LAPALMA
CÁDIZ IRON
TARIFF GOMERA
MÁLAGA TENERIFE
10:03 18:03 09:40 19:03
MOTRIL THE PALMS
GATA CAP Fuerteventura
Yaiza
MELILLA
Lava

Maritime Rescue Centers

In our country, this public service is provided by the State Society for Salvage and Security.
Maritime, assigned to the Ministry of Development through the General Directorate of Merchant Marine.

Its function is to respond to emergencies that may arise at sea in order to rescue
to save human lives, enhance navigation safety, assist traffic and protect the
marine environment.

To respond to these tasks, the Society has Rescue Coordination Centers.

(CCs) strategically distributed along the entire Spanish coastline, as well as rescue ships.
mento, fast intervention vessels, and rescue helicopters. In the attached map, you can
See the distribution of the CCs, as well as the resources available to each of them.

Deployment of Maritime Rescue Centers and Units (2010)

21 coordinating centers, 4 multifunctional ships, 12 rescue ships, Areas of responsibility and search and
53 rapid intervention vessels - 33 of 21 m. and 20 of 15 m. - 9 Maritime Salvage
helicopters and 4 surveillance planes are the means available to Sal-
Maritime launching to develop its tasks.
62 SHORT RANGE RADIO OPERATOR

On the other hand, although in the same line, the Society,

in addition to its own human and material resources,
counts on those from other institutions or organizations
regional, local or international collaborators.
As part of their commitment to enhancing security and the
Risk prevention at sea, the CCS maintains listening
permanent on channel 16 VHF, as well as in
frequency of OM of 2.182 KHz, reinforcing if possible the one already
the coastal stations are carried out.
A salvage ship tows a In this same commitment, in addition to being in charge of and
stricken sailboat in harsh weather
under their responsibility the Spanish NAVTEX System, the
Centers issue weather bulletins on the VHF band.

Note.- Annually, corresponding with the

Start of summer, Maritime Rescue publishes a series of
interesting publications, that are free, and expressly
aimed at recreational boating in its various aspects,
including water sports.

Its distribution through the yacht clubs, ports

sports, gyms, and nautical schools is of great
Search and Rescue (SAR) air services are importance to reduce the high level of incidents that the
especially important in the tasks of
recognition and rescue recreational boating causes during the summer period.

The total or partial reproduction of this book is not allowed, nor is storage in a system.
computer scientist, nor the transmission in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
photocopy, registration or other means without the prior written permission of the copyright holders.