RYA SRC DSC Procedures

Question 1

What does DSC stand for in VHF marine radio?

Accepted Answer

Digital Selective Calling

Answer

DSC stands for Digital Selective Calling, a system that allows automated distress alerts and vessel-to-vessel calling using digital signals on VHF radio.

Question 2

Which VHF channel is used exclusively for DSC distress alerting?

Accepted Answer

Channel 70

Answer

Channel 70 is reserved exclusively for DSC distress alerting and calling. It must never be used for voice communications.

Question 3

What information is automatically included in a DSC distress alert?

Accepted Answer

MMSI number, nature of distress, and vessel position if GPS-linked

Answer

A DSC distress alert automatically transmits the vessel's MMSI number, the nature of distress (if selected), and position with time if the radio is connected to a GPS.

Question 4

After sending a DSC distress alert, what must you do immediately?

Accepted Answer

Switch to Channel 16 and transmit a MAYDAY voice call

Answer

After transmitting a DSC distress alert on Channel 70, you must immediately switch to Channel 16 and transmit a MAYDAY voice message to provide further details to rescuers.

Question 5

How often should a DSC distress alert be repeated if no acknowledgement is received?

Accepted Answer

After 3.5 to 4.5 minutes

Answer

If no acknowledgement is received, the DSC distress alert should be repeated after 3.5 to 4.5 minutes to allow time for coast stations to respond without causing excessive interference.

RYA SRC Practice Test

RYA SRC Practice Test

RYA SRC DSC Procedures