VHF (very high frequency) radio is the main form of communication used by marine vessels to communicate with each other and with shore stations. It is a reliable, cost-effective and efficient system that is widely used in the marine industry. In order to better use a marine VHF radio, it is important to familiarize yourself with some of the most commonly used marine VHF radio terms and abbreviations.
Commonly Used Marine VHF Radio Terms
VHF: VHF stands for very high frequency. This is the frequency range used for most marine radio communications.
CTCSS: Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System. This is a type of sub-audible frequency that is used to avoid interference from other vessels.
SELCALL: Selective Calling. This is a system which allows you to call a specific vessel, rather than broadcasting to all vessels within range.
DSC: Digital Selective Calling. This is a system which allows you to call a specific vessel, using a digital coding system.
MMSI: Maritime Mobile Service Identity. This is a unique number used to identify a vessel for digital communications.
AIS: Automatic Identification System. This is a system which transmits data to other vessels regarding the vessel’s name, position, and course.
ATIS: Automatic transmitter identification system (not to be confused with AIS). This system is used in inland waterways in various countries in mainland Europe.
DW/TRI: Dual/Triple-Watch. It is the ability to listen to two/three channels (one will be Ch16) at the same time by the set switching between them.
Choose a Good VHF Radio for Your Boat
There are two main types of marine radios: fixed mount and handheld. Both are useful and effective. Handhelds will only transmit at a maximum of 5W, whereas a fixed set will transmit at 25W, which will give you greater range. Look at what purpose you are going to use the VHF. If you are going to do a lot of cruising then a fixed set, however if you are to do your boating where you are in proximity of other vessels then a handheld should suffice. If you go for the fixed set then please bear in mind the higher the aerial the better the signal will be and also try to buy a handheld as a backup as radios do fail.
Handheld VHF Radio:
- Easier to take home at the end of the day
- Less console space taken up
- Use it anywhere on the boat
- Limited battery life
- No additional wiring needed
- Lower price
If you are considering buying a handheld VHF radio, Retevis RA26, Retevis RM21 and Retevis RM01 are on sale.
Fixed Mount VHF Radio:
- Longer range
- Longer battery life
- Not so easy to take home
- Takes up console space
- More pricey
If you are looking for a functional fixed Mount VHF radio, I will recommend Retevis RM20 and Retevis RA27.
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