DSC/MMSI Radio Survey

To: All  Vessel Examiners

Fr.: R/C On LaPlante, SN ~ VSC Com

Subj: Digital Select Radios

We have been informed that to date, of the 250,000 Digital Select (DSC) radios sold, only 10% have requested Marine Mobile Service Identifiers (MMSI).  The MMSI is a critical part of the DSC emergency calling system.

As key recreational boating safety educators, we have been asked to help identify the extent of, and to help rectify this potential problem.

As you perform each Vessel Safety Check, we would like you to survey those vessels by asking the following questions;

1.    Does the vessel have a Marine radio? Yes or no!

2.    If it does, is it a DSC radio? Yes or no!

3.    If yes, what is the make and model number?

4.    If yes, has the operator/owner obtained a MMSI and programmed it into the radio? Yes or no!

5.    If yes, can they display (confirm) the MMSI to you? Yes or no!

6.    Is the DSC radio connected to a GPS or loran unit? Yes or no!

7.    If yes, can they display the lat/long coordinates for the vessel?

8.    Do they have either or both of the DSC radio and/or the GPS manual on board so that you can help them verify that their radio is programmed correctly?

A summary response sheet is included on the left hand menu for your use.  Survey results must be sent to the Stf/C Bob Miller boatsafe@comcast.net no later then 30 August to be used in this initial system audit.  Submitting by email is the preferred method.

Also on the left hand menu is a Digital Select Calling Radio fact sheet.  It can be presented to the boater to be sure they understand the importance of and the functional features of this new technology.  You may decide to provide them with a BOATUS application form to help expedite the process. You might also want to access the Rescue 21 web site to determine if or when that system will be functional in your area of responsibility

We are working with the USCG Auxiliary whose Communications Division, Operations Dept. are to develop a field functionality test.  Details to follow.

Thank you in advance for your participation in this valuable project.