VTS Equipment and Technology 2

Question 1

What is the primary advantage of an S-band radar (3 GHz) over X-band radar (9 GHz) in a VTS center?

Accepted Answer

Superior performance in heavy rain and adverse weather

Answer

Better target resolution in clear weather

Answer

Shorter minimum detection range

Answer

Higher accuracy for small vessel detection

Question 2

In AIS, what does a Class A transponder transmit that a Class B transponder does NOT?

Accepted Answer

Rate of turn (ROT) and navigational status

Answer

MMSI number and vessel name

Answer

Speed over ground and course over ground

Answer

Latitude and longitude position

Question 3

A VTS operator notices a radar target has no associated AIS return. What is the MOST likely explanation?

Accepted Answer

The vessel is not AIS-equipped or its transponder is off

Answer

The vessel is traveling faster than 30 knots

Answer

The radar is operating on the wrong frequency

Answer

The vessel is transiting a traffic separation scheme

Question 4

What type of VHF antenna configuration is typically used at VTS stations to achieve omnidirectional coverage of a harbor?

Accepted Answer

Collinear omnidirectional antenna

Answer

Yagi directional array

Answer

Parabolic dish antenna

Answer

Log-periodic antenna

Question 5

In a VTMIS (Vessel Traffic Management Information System), what is the function of sensor fusion?

Accepted Answer

Combining radar and AIS data into a single tracked target

Answer

Fusing VHF audio channels into one broadcast

Answer

Merging tide gauge readings with weather data

Answer

Integrating CCTV feeds into the radar display

Question 6

What is the purpose of a RAMARK in the context of VTS radar operations?

Accepted Answer

A radar beacon that transmits continuously to identify a fixed position

Answer

A software marker placed on a radar screen by the operator

Answer

A radar reflector mounted on a buoy

Answer

A method of measuring radar range accuracy

Question 7

When a VTS radar system experiences 'sea clutter,' what adjustment should the operator make?

Accepted Answer

Apply the STC (Sensitivity Time Control) or sea clutter control

Answer

Increase transmitter power output

Answer

Switch from X-band to S-band radar

Answer

Reduce the radar antenna rotation speed