FCC website (http://wireless.fcc.gov/services/index.htm?job=service_home&id=maritime) or contact the FCC Call Center at 1-888-CALL-FCC. For individuals requiring a license, such as commercial users, you should obtain a license application from your nearest FCC field office (for US users) or Industry Canada (for Canadian users).

Basic Radio Guidelines

You should familiarize yourself with the rules on marine radios and be aware of which rules apply to your boat. Complete guidelines for all ship and marine radio types can be found at the US Coast Guard website under the topic Radio Info for Boaters (the direct link is http://www.navcen.uscg. gov/?pageName=mtBoater. Here are a few guidelines that affect nearly all boaters.

•If you have a VHF radio on your boat, you must maintain a watch on channel 16 (156.800 MHz) whenever the radio is not being used to communicate. Starting in 2004, if a radio is carried, it must be on and set to channel 16. Whenever your boat is underway.

•If you hear a distress call, wait a few minutes to let a shore station or Coast Guard vessel re- spond. If no other station has responded after 5 minutes, you must respond to the distress call.

•Do not make false mayday or distress calls as a prank or to test your radio. (This is essentially like making a false 9-1-1 call; you may be subject to fines.)

FCC/Industry Canada Information

Certification: FCC Part 80 or RSS-182

Output Power: 6W

Emission: 16K0F3E

Transmitter Frequency Range: 156.025-157.425 MHz

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference.

Unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment may void compliance with the FCC Rules. Any change or modification must be approved in writing by West Marine. Changes or modifications not approved by West Marine could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

FCC RF Exposure Information

In August 1996 the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) of the United States with its action in Report and Order FCC 96-326 adopted an updated safety standard for human exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic energy emitted by FCC regulated transmitters. Those guidelines are con- sistent with the safety standard previously set by both U.S. and international standards bodies. The design of the radio complies with the FCC guidelines and these international standards.

Never allow children to operate the radio without adult supervision and the knowledge of the follow- ing guidelines.

WARNING! It is up to the user to properly operate this radio transmitter to insure safe operation. Please adhere to the following:

Use only the supplied or an approved antenna. Unauthorized antennas, modifications, or attach- ments could impair call quality, damage the radio, or violate FCC regulations.

Do not use the radio with a damaged antenna. If a damaged antenna comes into contact with the skin, a minor burn may result. Please contact your local dealer for a replacement antenna.

Body-Worn Operation

This device was tested for typical body-worn operations using the supplied belt-clip. To maintain compliance with FCC RF exposure requirements, body-worn operations are restricted to the sup- plied belt-clip. For hand-held operation, the radio should be held 1 inch from the user’s face. The

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VHF460, VHF155 specifications

West Marine VHF155 and VHF460 are two prominent marine VHF radios designed to enhance communication for boaters and ensure safety on the water. These devices come packed with features that cater to both recreational and commercial vessel operators, making them invaluable tools for any maritime adventure.

The West Marine VHF155 is a compact and cost-effective model that provides essential communication capabilities. One of its main features is a built-in DSC (Digital Selective Calling) functionality, which allows users to send distress signals directly to the Coast Guard or nearby vessels with just a push of a button. This feature significantly improves safety, as it can alert others of emergencies without needing to communicate verbally.

The VHF155 offers a user-friendly interface with a large, easy-to-read LCD display, making it simple to navigate through channels and settings. It operates on the international VHF marine band and has access to all US, Canadian, and international channels, ensuring that users can communicate effectively regardless of their location. Additionally, the VHF155 is rated IPX7 for water resistance, meaning it can withstand splashes and brief submersion, providing peace of mind in challenging weather conditions.

On the other hand, the West Marine VHF460 boasts advanced features that appeal to professional mariners and avid boaters alike. It includes an integrated GPS receiver, allowing users to send their position during a distress call accurately. This feature is crucial for ensuring rapid assistance from search and rescue teams. The VHF460 supports both analog and digital communication, offering versatility in transmission methods.

Another notable characteristic of the VHF460 is its powerful built-in speaker, which delivers clear audio even in noisy marine environments. The radio also supports multiple scanning features, including Priority Scan, enabling users to monitor various channels effectively. This ensures that operators never miss important communications while engaged in other tasks on board.

Both models supportNMEA0183, which facilitates interoperability with other marine electronics, allowing for seamless integration with plotters and other navigational devices. The devices are designed for easy installation, with intuitive mounting options and clear instructions.

In summary, West Marine VHF155 and VHF460 marine radios bring crucial communication technology to boaters. Whether prioritizing essential safety features or seeking advanced capabilities, these radios provide reliability, ease of use, and enhanced safety, making them go-to choices for anyone who spends time on the water.
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