Will my vhf work

[rogerblack]

Im pants with radios..... i really dont get it all. Being ex military and using bowman systems youd think id understand it all but nope im a comms mong.

Can u just speak normaly or do you need to use specific wording?

As Chris says, there are prowords and also a preferred format for calling, specially for critical communications like PAN PAN and MAYDAY calls, all of which will be taught and you will have the chance to practice when you do the SRC course.

When I did it they included a copy of this handbook in the fee and supplied it in advance so you could prepare:

http://www.force4.co.uk/rya-vhf-handboo ... 9xB3E0rK00

There is also an introductory video and downloadable practice here:

http://www.rya.org.uk/coursestraining/c ... aster.aspx

However it's a bit like learning to drive - you actually learn to pass your driving test then promptly forget most of it once you start driving for real. Listening to the local fishermen here in Fife, they completely ignore the protocols, especially the rule about no bad language, although their vernacular is so strong that only locals would understand what they're saying anyway.

[rogerblack]

One thing to remember - don't ever say OVER AND OUT as it makes absolutely no sense!

Also it's an immediate giveaway that you haven't done the course.

[chris moody]

If you use the radio regularly, the correct protocol becomes second nature.


--
Chris Moody

[Martin]

10-4 rubber duck !
See, it's easy.
Over and out

[mattswan2512]

I know how to radio check, over is surely not good ie man over board, out ends a transmission.
And also hello you this is me

[Andy B]

I know how to radio check, over is surely not good ie man over board, out ends a transmission.
And also hello you this is me

"Over" means you've finished talking, "Out" means you've finished the Conversation...
"PAN PAN" Pay Attention Now Possible Assistance Needed
"MayDay" The crap has hit the fan..........


Oh and don't do radio checks on Ch16.

[chris moody]

If I was using another vessel for a radio check I would have to make the initial call to them on ch16. Don't be frightened of using ch16, it's both the distress and calling channel and is there to be used (but not abused). I think AndyB is trying to say don't just use the coastguard for radio checks. I frequently use harbours and marinas for radio checks, calling them on their own channel (in that instance bypassing ch16).


--
Chris Moody

[Andy B]

They get a bit pissy when people call for radio checks on Ch16 (well they do in the Solent )
And if you've ever sat out there with the radio on you'd understand why, It's a busy stretch of water...
Ch16 is the calling channel. You'll be directed to another channel to continue a conversation.
Radio checks should be done on the working channel, usually Ch67

As Chris has said most marina's will respond to a radio check. Usually Ch80 unless posted other wise.

[chris moody]

I'm running a pb2 so will be out on the water most of the time

Well, we will be in the classroom all day so I'm sure we might meet at some point, we did the pb2 there a few months ago, we enjoyed that big 250 hp rib!

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Chris Moody