It is important to have a high quality marine communication system on board to ensure safety for boaters. Before, you set out, it is advisable to make sure the boat is equipped with more than one communication device, so that it can be used to send out emergency signals while on board or call for help. Accidentally, many boaters die, as they do not have equipment to transmit an emergency signal and they do not get timely help.
Some of the important communications equipment that enables efficient communication while on the water is discussed below:
Marine VHF Radio: This equipment is usually installed on all boats and is used for a range of purposes. It is majorly used for communication with other boaters or nearby marina or service facility. It is also a very useful device for summoning rescue service. The VHF radio that operates in the VHF frequency between 156 to 174 MHZ is widely used for avoiding collision of ships at sea. Marine VHF Radio mostly works on the principle of 'simplex' transmission, where communication takes place in only one direction at a time.
VHS with DSC: Many newer VHS radios are not available with DSC. The DSC DISTRESS function when activated transmits a digital MAYDAY including vessel identification, Latitude / Longitude and time (with GPS connected), to facilitate prompt response. Another importnat advantage of the DCS is the ability to easily share location data with other DSC-equipped boats using the position request and advanced position sharing functions. With the push of a few buttons you can request the position of another vessel, or simply send your position information to the vessel you select.
VHF Handheld Radio: While not a requirement a hand held VHF radio can serve as an inexpensive spare radio in case of a malfunction of the installed radio. Handheld VHF radios are usually water resistant or water proof, sometimes float and can be used as an emergency communication devise in the event of a ditching. Those also include all of the NOAA weather broadcasting stations.
Marine Speakers: Marine speakers, unlike the ordinary speakers, are of much higher standards. They are specifically built to withstand harsh conditions of the sea. Amplifiers, speakers and subwoofers make up a complete seaside entertainment system. The main purpose of using load hailer speakers is to make loud announcements and instructions to make sure that everybody hears them. The loud hailer can also be used as a fog signaling devise
Single Sideband Radiotelephone: This high-powered radio is an ideal tool, which is used for long range communications usually by long distance cruisers and commercial operators. These radiotelephones are built in a way that, they are capable of withstanding the rigors of the seas. several radiotelephones also have emailing capabilities. Operation of a Single Side Band radio requires a Ham Radio license. Most of the innovative Single Side Band radios have Digital Signal Processing that virtually eliminates all noise, operating 1300 channels.
