RYA SRC GMDSS 4

Question 1

What is the purpose of NAVTEX in the GMDSS framework?

Accepted Answer

To automatically broadcast navigational warnings, weather forecasts and MSI to ships

Answer

NAVTEX is an automated telex broadcast system that delivers Maritime Safety Information (MSI), including navigational warnings and weather forecasts, directly to a shipboard printer or screen.

Question 2

On what frequency does international NAVTEX operate?

Accepted Answer

518 kHz

Answer

International NAVTEX broadcasts are transmitted on 518 kHz in the MF band, receivable out to approximately 400 nautical miles from the coast station.

Question 3

What GMDSS sea area covers coastal waters typically within 20–50 nm of a shore-based DSC VHF coast station?

Accepted Answer

Sea Area A1

Answer

Sea Area A1 is defined as an area within radiotelephone coverage of at least one VHF coast station providing continuous DSC alerting, generally within about 20–50 nm of the coast.

Question 4

A Category 1 EPIRB is designed to activate in which way?

Accepted Answer

Automatically when submerged to 1–4 metres, or manually

Answer

A Category 1 EPIRB is float-free and hydrostatic — it activates automatically when immersed in water at 1–4 metres depth, and can also be activated manually.

Question 5

On what frequency does a 406 MHz EPIRB transmit, and which system detects it?

Accepted Answer

406 MHz — detected by the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system

Answer

Modern EPIRBs transmit on 406 MHz, which is monitored by the international Cospas-Sarsat low-earth-orbit satellite network for precise position fixing and vessel identification.

RYA SRC Practice Test

RYA SRC Practice Test

RYA SRC GMDSS 4