Handheld DSC VHF ( built in GPS)

[Badger]

Ofcom are asking me if I want a seperate MMSI number for one of these ( I have just fitted a Fixed DSC VHF). From what I can see you can't get them in the UK for one and secondly what would be the be benefits ? All I can think is could be useful in a grab bag or if you needed to send an automated distress call from the dinghy ? Should I get an additional MMSI number just in case ? Will they be available in the UK anytime soon ?Thanks.

 

[MoodySabre]

Yes you can get a DSC Handheld here for example. The question is do you want a separate MMSI for it. If you are using it for distress purposes wouldn't it be OK to have the same MMSI as your fixed set as it just tells them who you are and where you are.

 

[AntarcticPilot]

Yes you can get a DSC Handheld here for example. The question is do you want a separate MMSI for it. If you are using it for distress purposes wouldn't it be OK to have the same MMSI as your fixed set as it just tells them who you are and where you are.

Hand-helds are supposed to have MMSIs in a different range from fixed sets; this allows the CG (for example) to know that they aren't necessarily looking for a yacht. If you're a MOB, and have hit the distress button but are not in a position to respond further, you don't really want the RNLI looking for somethign with a fixed installation.

It also allows the hand-held to be used (for example) on the tender to a yacht.

 

[maxi77]

Yes you can get a DSC Handheld here for example. The question is do you want a separate MMSI for it. If you are using it for distress purposes wouldn't it be OK to have the same MMSI as your fixed set as it just tells them who you are and where you are.

That of course is a US model not on the SH UK list so perhaps not type approve etc. Limited goods are past masters at getting themselves into UK searches and trying to look like a UK supplier.

 

[V1701]

Same MMSI for both fixed and (non DSC) hand held is the advice I was given on recent vhf course and from others. And no compatible hand held vhf dsc available uk yet...

 

[Badger]

Ofcom - Cannot use vessel MMSI on Portable device

That's interesting because as Antartic Plilot says, Ofcom are very clear about it as follows: "Portable VHF / DSC Radios must on no account be programmed with the vessel MMSI number.HM Coastguard needs to be able to differntiate between the types of equiment sending a DSC alert, as it is possible for the alert from a portable set to come from any vessel.The resulting serach on the database for vessel details may provide incorrect information that could jeopardise a Search and Rescue operation. The first 4 digits of an portable MMSI number begin 2359."