NorthStar Navigation Explorer 721US, Explorer 721EU Send and Receive DSC Calls, What is DSC?

Section 5 - Send and Receive DSC Calls

A valid user MMSID must have been entered to access the DSC functions. If you don’t have a user MMSID, see Appendix D.

Press CALL/MENU to show the DSC CALL menu. This shows the different types of DSC call that you make.

Sections 1.3 and 1.4 explain how to navigate around the menu and enter, save and change data.

5-1 What is DSC?

DSC (Digital Selective Calling) is a semi-automated method of establishing VHF, MF, and HF radio calls. It has been designated as an international standard by the IMO (International Maritime Organization) and is part of the GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System).

Currently, you are required to monitor Distress Channel 16, but DSC will eventually replace listening watches on distress frequencies and will be used to broadcast routine and urgent maritime safety information.

DSC enables you to send and receive calls from any vessel or coast station that is equipped with DSC functionality, and within geographic range. Calls can be categorised as distress, urgency, safety, or routine, and DSC selects a working channel automatically.

5-2 The DSC CALL Menu Options

		Make a routine, safety, urgency or distress call to a
INDIVIDUAL	ROUTINE	buddy or another individual.
		See Section 5-3.
	SAFETY
	URGENCY
	DISTRESS
		Show the details of the most recent incoming call.
LAST CALL		See Section 5-4.
		Make a call to one of your three groups.
GROUP		See Section 5-5.
		Make a urgency, safety, routine, or distress call
ALL SHIPS	URGENCY	to All Ships,
		See Section 5-6.
	SAFETY
	ROUTINE
	DISTRESS
		Show the details of the 20 most recent incoming
		calls.
CALL LOG		See Section 5-7.
		Show the details of the 10 most recent distress
		calls.
DIST LOG		See Section 5-8.
		Request the LL position of a buddy.
LL REQUEST		See Section 5-9.

30 Northstar Explorer VHF Series: 721US, 721EU Operation and Installation Manual