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GMDSS Frequencies and Radio Bands Flashcards

6 cards from real GMDSS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 GMDSS Frequencies and Radio Bands flashcards as text
  1. What is the HF DSC distress frequency in the 8 MHz band?

    Answer: 8414.5 kHz

    8414.5 kHz is the designated HF DSC distress frequency in the 8 MHz band used for long-range GMDSS alerting.

  2. Navtex broadcasts on 490 kHz are primarily used for what purpose?

    Answer: Local language maritime safety broadcasts

    490 kHz Navtex broadcasts are used for local or national language maritime safety information, complementing the international 518 kHz service.

  3. What is the frequency of the satellite EPIRB signal transmitted on the Cospas-Sarsat system?

    Answer: 406 MHz

    406 MHz is the primary frequency used by Cospas-Sarsat EPIRBs for satellite detection and accurate position reporting.

  4. Which frequency do Search and Rescue Transponders (SARTs) operate on?

    Answer: 9 GHz (X-band radar)

    SARTs operate on 9 GHz (X-band) radar frequency, responding to radar pulses from ships and aircraft to show a series of blips on radar displays.

  5. What is the homing frequency transmitted by an EPIRB to assist SAR aircraft and vessels?

    Answer: 121.5 MHz

    EPIRBs transmit a homing signal on 121.5 MHz in addition to the 406 MHz satellite signal to help SAR units home in on the beacon.

  6. Which frequency range is used by AIS (Automatic Identification System) transmissions?

    Answer: VHF channels 87B and 88B (161.975/162.025 MHz)

    AIS uses VHF channels 87B (161.975 MHz) and 88B (162.025 MHz) for automatic vessel identification and position reporting.

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Sources & references

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  1. fcc.gov — Fees, eligibility, exam format, passing score, renewal, score validity · verified Oct 2026
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