RYA SRC VHF Channel Usage 6 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the significance of simplex vs duplex channels for recreational sailors?
- Simplex channels use one frequency for both transmit/receive; duplex channels use separate frequencies for ship and shore (Correct answer)
- Simplex channels have shorter range
- Duplex channels require a special licence
- Simplex channels are only for commercial use
Correct answer: Simplex channels use one frequency for both transmit/receive; duplex channels use separate frequencies for ship and shore
Simplex channels use the same frequency for both transmission and reception, meaning only one party can speak at a time. Duplex channels use paired frequencies so both parties can speak simultaneously, like a telephone.
Question 2: Which organisation assigns VHF channel designations internationally?
- ITU (International Telecommunication Union) (Correct answer)
- IMO (International Maritime Organisation)
- IALA (International Association of Lighthouse Authorities)
- IHO (International Hydrographic Organisation)
Correct answer: ITU (International Telecommunication Union)
The ITU (International Telecommunication Union) is responsible for allocating and regulating radio frequencies internationally, including the marine VHF band and channel designations used worldwide.
Question 3: What is the procedure for testing a VHF radio in UK waters?
- Use a DSC test call to a coast station or conduct a radio check on Channel 67 with HM Coastguard (Correct answer)
- Test on Channel 16 using MAYDAY TEST
- Test on Channel 70 using DSC distress alert
- Contact the marina on Channel 80 requesting a radio test
Correct answer: Use a DSC test call to a coast station or conduct a radio check on Channel 67 with HM Coastguard
Radio tests in UK waters should use a DSC test call or contact HM Coastguard on Channel 67. Testing on Channel 16 with 'MAYDAY TEST' is not permitted. Never send a DSC distress alert for testing purposes.
Question 4: What is the phonetic alphabet word for the letter 'N'?
- November (Correct answer)
- Nano
- Niger
- Normal
Correct answer: November
In the NATO phonetic alphabet used in marine radio, the letter N is represented by 'November'. This word is clearly distinguishable from other phonetic alphabet words in poor radio conditions.
Question 5: What channel is used for maritime safety broadcasts by HM Coastguard in the Solent area?
- Channel 67 (Correct answer)
- Channel 16
- Channel 70
- Channel 80
Correct answer: Channel 67
HM Coastguard uses Channel 67 as the primary working channel for Maritime Safety Information broadcasts in UK coastal waters including the Solent area, after making an announcement on Channel 16.
Question 6: What happens to Channel 16 watch requirements when entering a port or marina?
- Continue monitoring Channel 16 unless instructed to switch to a port working channel (Correct answer)
- Switch immediately to Channel 80
- Switch to Channel 12 for all port communications
- Channel 16 watch is suspended in port waters
Correct answer: Continue monitoring Channel 16 unless instructed to switch to a port working channel
Vessels should continue monitoring Channel 16 even in port unless instructed by the harbour authority to maintain a watch on their designated working channel instead. The requirement does not automatically cease.
RYA SRC VHF Channel Usage 6
What is the significance of simplex vs duplex channels for recreational sailors?