2182 kHz

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The radio frequency of 2182 kilohertz (kHz) is the international calling and distress frequency for voice maritime communication (radio telephony) on the marine MF bands. It is analogous to Channel 16 on the marine VHF band.

1 Modulation
2 GMDSS
3 Range
4 Licencing
5 See also

[edit] Modulation

Transmissions on 2182 kHz should use single-sideband modulation (SSB) (upper sideband only). That said, Amplitude modulation (AM), and some variants in between the two, such as vestigial sideband, are still in use. These are used mainly by vessels with older equipment installed and by some coastal stations in an attempt to ensure compatibility with older and less sophisticated receivers afloat.

[edit] GMDSS

2182 kHz forms an essential part of the Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GMDSS). It has an associated DSC frequency at 2187.5 kHz.

[edit] Range

Unlike Marine VHF which is limited to about 50 nautical miles range, communications on 2182 kHz and nearby frequencies have a typical range of around 150 nautical miles during the day and 500 (or more) nautical miles at night[1]. At night a well equipped station can achieve intra-continental communication, but this range can be severely limited at summer because of static caused by lightning.

There are many other marine frequencies, including distress and calling frequencies, in the Marine HF bands, up to and including worldwide coverage with the right conditions. In addition to these, satellite technology can provide worldwide communications for vessels at sea too.

[edit] Licencing

In order to operate a marine radio tranceiver on 2182 kHz, the operator must hold a GMDSS Long Range Certificate, which requires success on a wider syllabus than that of the GMDSS Short Range Certificate that is necessary for Marine VHF use. In either case, though, an unqualified operator would not be prosecuted for the use of either rig in a what turns out to be a genuine distress situation.