GMDSS Radio Signals Radio signals are transmitted as electromagnetic radiation and occupy the frequency range 3 kHz ~ 300 GHz. The radiofrequency range is divided into a number of bands. In the GMDSS system both terrestrial and satellite methods of communications are interlocked in order to provide an extremely reliable scheme to alert rescue authorities in the event of a vessel being in distress.Frequencies in the MF, HF and VHF bands are used for terrestrial communications via Coast Radio Stations (CRS). Frequencies in the SHF bands are used for satellite communications. It's important … [Read more...]
EPIRB – Emergency Position indicating Radio Beacon
An Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon or EPIRB is a safety device carried by a vessel to alert search and rescue services and allow them to quickly locate you in the event of an emergency. It does this by transmitting a coded message on the 406 MHz distress frequency via satellite and earth stations to the nearest rescue coordination centre.An EPIRB usually works on 406/121.5 MHZ and can be manually or automatically activated and some models are also water activated. 121.5/243 MHz EPIRBs The International Cospas-Sarsat System ceased satellite processing of 121.5/243 MHz beacons … [Read more...]