MST MST Marine Electronics & Navigation Systems

Question 1

What is the NMEA 2000 standard used for on modern marine vessels?

Accepted Answer

A plug-and-play digital network protocol that allows marine electronics to share data on a common backbone

Answer

NMEA 2000 is a CAN-bus-based networking standard that allows chartplotters, VHF radios, engines, depth finders, and other devices to share data seamlessly.

Question 2

What is the purpose of a marine VHF radio's DSC (Digital Selective Calling) feature?

Accepted Answer

To transmit a digital distress alert with vessel identity and GPS position to the Coast Guard and nearby vessels

Answer

DSC allows a single button press to broadcast a digital Mayday containing the vessel's MMSI number and GPS coordinates to rescue authorities.

Question 3

What minimum AWG wire size is generally required for a VHF marine radio installation drawing up to 6 amps?

Accepted Answer

18 AWG (with a 7-amp in-line fuse at the source)

Answer

ABYC E-11 specifies wire gauges based on current load and length; 18 AWG is acceptable for short runs under 7 amps with proper fusing.

Question 4

An AIS (Automatic Identification System) Class B transponder on a recreational vessel broadcasts what information?

Accepted Answer

MMSI number, vessel name, position, speed, and course

Answer

AIS Class B transponders broadcast vessel identity, GPS position, speed over ground, course, and vessel type to nearby AIS-equipped vessels and VTS systems.

Question 5

What is the correct coaxial cable type for a VHF antenna installation to minimize signal loss on runs over 20 feet?

Accepted Answer

RG-8X or RG-8U (low-loss coax)

Answer

Low-loss coaxial cable such as RG-8X significantly reduces signal attenuation over longer antenna cable runs compared to standard RG-58.

(MST) Marine Service Technician Practice Test

(MST) Marine Service Technician Practice Test

MST MST Marine Electronics & Navigation Systems