Updated OFCOM Website - VHF DSC

[mattswan2512]

Just got a licence for an HX870E but wanted to share that the procedure has changed "slightly" from previous threads.
When I looked before I bought the radio (Aug 17) it was necessary to apply for a PORTABLE SHIPS RADIO LICENCE and had to choose the DSC option.
Now there is no "option", it is just a SHIPS RADIO LICENCE.
I have rang them today to confirm that it covered DSC as it wasn't mentioned anywhere in the application.
It is now the same / one licence that covers DSC.
Hope that helps anyone about to apply.


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Missing page 3 is the applicants details and I didn't think you wanted to see mine.

[Martin]

That's very helpful for the new guys, Andy... Thanks for sharing

[Namibiafrank]

It have to be said this forum is amazing!!
Got my radio (SH870E) got my short range licence, registered the lot and installed software and even did not need worrying that i did not have an option to tick DSC as explained above.

Only question, is it worth uploading MMSI nr to my profile on here?
Thanks for all the info on here superb!!

[Namibiafrank]

That is entirely your personal choice. I have mine on here but it's not necessary. Congratulations on your purchase, they are the dogs nads.

[chris moody]

If you publish your MMSI it would enable other F-Ribs members to initiate a VHF conversation with you using an individual DSC call to you instead of calling you via CH16. Calling another vessel via CH16 is difficult if that vessel doesn't have a name, and lots of sibs don't have vessel names, as you would end up having to use the VHF callsign (or T number if it's a portable VHF). So DSC calling seems to me to be very useful in the Sib world.

Only question, is it worth uploading MMSI nr to my profile on here?

[Martin]

If you publish your MMSI it would enable other F-Ribs members to initiate a VHF conversation with you using an individual DSC call to you instead of calling you via CH16. Calling another vessel via CH16 is difficult if that vessel doesn't have a name, and lots of sibs don't have vessel names, as you would end up having to use the VHF callsign (or T number if it's a portable VHF). So DSC calling seems to me to be very useful in the Sib world.

Only question, is it worth uploading MMSI nr to my profile on here?

I get where you're coming from,
Perhaps a locked thread with an mmsi list on there, ie: only forum registered members can see it rather than the wider public??

Thoughts pls guys
viewtopic.php?f=6&t=2843

[Namibiafrank]

I think its a great idea Martin, i have uploaded my MMSI on my profile as i totally agree with Chris its a great feature to initiate a DSC call direct.
My thoughts are you get to know who will be out in your local waters even if you did not arrange a meet, if you initiate a DSC call to who you think it might be and its not them it does not matter and you don't cause unnecessary chatter on ch 16.
I was returning to Chi harbour when i saw a little frib and i thought it might be Phil from this forum as he mentioned he might go out from Northney merina, it would have been great to just check if it was indeed him and perhaps have a little chat.
Just my 2p

[The Hobbit]

I think a locked thread for members only would be useful addition.

[chris moody]

With DSC you can also do a position request to a MMSI number, which will give you their current location if they accept that position request from you. Could be a really useful feature for people wanting to meet up on the water.

I think its a great idea Martin, i have uploaded my MMSI on my profile as i totally agree with Chris its a great feature to initiate a DSC call direct.
My thoughts are you get to know who will be out in your local waters even if you did not arrange a meet, if you initiate a DSC call to who you think it might be and its not them it does not matter and you don't cause unnecessary chatter on ch 16.
I was returning to Chi harbour when i saw a little frib and i thought it might be Phil from this forum as he mentioned he might go out from Northney merina, it would have been great to just check if it was indeed him and perhaps have a little chat.
Just my 2p