MMSI Numbers

[PRBuzz]

PRBuzz: 338-077-114

Time to see if DCS calling thing really works.

Anyone else care to post theirs? If you don't want to post, feel free to PM me yours. My new radio can store 80 numbers.

[thefishingfreak]

69
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

[Mr. Sandman]

I don't know anyone that is using this. I have a number but most people I spoke to never used or even tried it.

I think the idea is OK and the safety aspect is a good idea but the "select" concept is half-baked. When you call someone...everyone else can hear you. There is no privacy as far as I can tell. Maybe I have it all wrong??????


Most guys have sat phones now and I will call my buds or USCG if I need to talk to them. VHF is a last resort safety back up or used for nearby casual chit chat.

[PRBuzz]

I thought the DSC/MMSI was one-on-one not public vs. conversing over 69.

[Mr. Sandman]

Originally Posted by PRBuzz

I thought the DSC/MMSI was one-on-one not public vs. conversing over 69.

I don't think so but I am not an expert on this (so you may want to explore this...I would like to know more myself). From what I understand if you know the MMSI number of your buddy, you can request his position in an automatic fashion that is a digital signal over channel 70 so it is not broadcast to the world but it does not allow private voice communication. If you request a voice call it will switch to the channel you requested but when you talk it is a broadcast conversation. I don't believe you can have a private voice conversation with a VHF/DSC radio. You can do a group poll as well. If set up right their positions should show up on your chart plotter. So again, that aspect is private but any voice aspects are broadcasting to everyone.


I am going to try to use it to locate my buddy this season. (A position request) We generally send each other cell phone texts but when you are out of cell phone coverage we have been blabbing on the radio. The nice thing about this is that it is automatic, he does not have to respond, his radio does it automatically. I suppose I could call him on a sat phone but I like the idea of getting a position and an icon on chartplotter with the push of a button than firing up all kinds of other comm devices.

I am really surprised more people don't use this feature but I guess with the advent of GPS in cell phones and it has become secondary as they already know how to use a cell phone.


I would like to fully understand this technology this summer and dive into all the AIS stuff as well. IMO there is almost too much communication "stuff" out there and none of it does it all.

[PRBuzz]

Lots of good sites with mostly good information, http://searoom.com/dsc-radios-and-mmsi/ . Here is the statement that is confusing to me: "DSC calls can be made directly to another vessel without broadcasting; it is much more private, like making a phone call. Remember, a DSC call does not use Channel 16. If the call is directed to an individual station, then that signal is sent on Channel 70 and only that station receives the call."

After your comments I now see where this is only a private hail to speak (and/or exchange location) on a designated open airwave channel. I guess that's better than using C69 and saying hey Bud let's go chat on 78.

My new Standard radio has the ability to "nav to" (point) to the DSC's location. Similar functions with AIS. Tried the AIS yesterday and saw various ships positions. I would be unable to "nav to" via the radio since I am 1 wire short on the GPS for hooking up this feature, which not sure I would ever use anyways as long as I can see their position.

[Mr. Sandman]

It gets confusing.

[Van]

Wouldn't be a bad idea for those googans that have nice long conversations on the radio.

How's the kids?
Oh baseball practice later, we're having a cookout, bought some burgers at stop and shop, but I need rolls. Can you pick up some rolls and maybe a bag of chips or two... OVER......