GMDSS regulations are a compulsory requirement for all commercial vessels over 300 gross tons and for various classes of passenger and fishing vessels. In Ireland , these regulations are administered by the Maritime Radio Affairs Unit of the Department of the Marine and Natural Resources. Fitting of GMDSS communications is a recommended option for virtually every class of small noncommercial craft e.g. leisure fishing boats and pleasure craft VHF DSC radios automatically keep watch on VHF channel 70 and will alarm when there is an incoming call for your vessel, an “all ships” call, urgency or safety, a distress call or distress relay. The radio will indicate which channel to use for the subsequent communications such as channel 16 for distress working or 72 for ship-to-ship. In the Republic of Ireland the Irish Coast Guard will continue to provide distress watches on channel 16 for the foreseeable future.
The IC-M421 has a built-in Ch 70 (DSC channel) receiver, which monitors Ch 70 activity, even while you are receiving another channel. In an emergency situation, an automated distress call can be sent at the touch of a button. Built-in DSC meets ITU Class D requirement. Superior receiver performance. Large 2-digit Ch with scrolling channel comment. Rugged waterproof construction. Easy to hear speaker.
The SAILOR SP3300 is the new generation of portable
GMDSS VHF transceivers from SAILOR. The SP3300 is a
modern and handy-size transceiver. The high-efficiency
antenna provides the best possible range, without shortening
battery life.
SAILOR A1 VHF is developed for
powerboat owners, serious yachtsmen,
workboat crews, fishermen and
other people with a need for reliable,
compact and inexpensive maritime
communication equipment.
A VHF antenna normally broadcasts and receives within the VHF band. Connected to a transceiver, a VHF antenna puts you in touch with other boats and most importantly the Coast Radio Station or Coast Guard. VHF systems let you call for help, receive weather information, and exchange necessary communication with other mariners. The range for VHF is not very far - it is usually line of sight from the antenna. In a VHF system, the antenna is the most important link. A poor antenna will give poor system performance from even the most expensive transceiver, a good quality antenna positioned correctly will help you get the best out of a your transceiver.
