VHF Radio operation

[Windowlicker]

There has been recent threads on responding to VHF radio emergencies and what to purchase for a radio but I have some operational questions. I am going to upgrade to an AIS capable radio. Probably GX2150. How do I acquire a MMSI# and is that all I need to take advantage of the technology available in these new radios. Going to pare it to a HDS 7 2nd Gen. I'd take a VHF course but out here in Alberta I can't find anyone who offers it. A lot has changed over the last 30 years and I must admit I don't have a very good grasp on it. I have my operators VHF radio license for aircraft but does it cover me for marine?

 

[casper5280]

You will have to get your MMSI number from the government, takes a couple weeks. You don't need that for the AIS to work thou. Just interface the radio to your GPS. you can take the ROC course though the Canadian Power Squadron, I may be wrong but I would think that your VHF license for aircraft would be good.

 

[Windowlicker]

If I understand correctly you need the operators license to get the MMSI # ? And does the MMSI # relate specifically to a vessel, so when you enter the # in the radio it tells the rest of the world your info related to the boat it's in? So different MMSI# for every different boat? Why am I struggling with this. Thanks for your patience in advance

 

[casper5280]

Sorry you may be correct,I had my ROC license when I got my MMSI#. Yes your MMSI is boat specific. But again your don't need the MMSI# for the AIS to work. One more thing the AIS radio only receives AIS information, it does not transmit your AIS information.

 

[Foxsea]

If I understand correctly you need the operators license to get the MMSI # ?

No - you can get he MMSI for a particular radio on a particular vessel.

And does the MMSI # relate specifically to a vessel, so when you enter the # in the radio it tells the rest of the world your info related to the boat it's in?

The info relayed is indicated on the Application Form.

So different MMSI# for every different boat?

MMSI is different for each radio and theoretically the boat it's attached to when registered.


Go here and click Appendix A -
http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/sd-sd.nsf/eng/00009.html

 

[MRACER]

COURSE IS MARINE SPECIFIC AND IF YOU ARE IN OR NEAR cALGARY (eDMONTON MAY HAVE PROGRESSED-lol) you can take the course at Mount Royal University through adult recreation courses- Also check the Glenmore Yaht club--

 

[Windowlicker]

Appreciate the response. I'm catching on. Too bad they won't transmit my location.

 

[casper5280]

It will transmit your location that is what the MMSI# is for, It will not transmit the boat Info thou.