Have you tried to contact the USCG office to see it they have a DSC radio up and running? In some locations the USCG do not have DSC setup for VHF yet.
Another way to test the HX850S is to program a MMSI of a radio that you know has DSC into the individual directory of the HX850S. Next, set a time when the user will be on the boat and test the HX850S by transmitting an Individual call to the other vessel.
I am quite sure the HX850S is working as not only have we confirmed operation before shipping, but also this morning I pulled a new radio from inventory and confirmed it is able to transmit and receive DSC calls.
I invite you to contact me at 800/767-2450 if you need further assistance.
Best regards,
Scott Iverson
Product Manager
Standard Horizon
Quote:
Originally Posted by claus
I just installed a Standard Horizon HX850S handheld VHF radio (with GPS) as
a backup for our 25 watt fixed VHF. I checked out the VHF transmit and
receive function with a couple of radio check calls to local boaters and
reception was 5 by 5. (Actually the reception was better than that on my
fixed VHF).
Additionally, I wanted to check the DSC functionality of the radio by
placing a ROUTINE call to the local Coast Guard's MMSI number. However,
after transmitting the signal, there was no "acknowledgement" for 5 minutes
and I then cancelled the call. Tried it again later with a routine
transmission to the "Rescue 21" MMSI number - again no acknowledgement.
I was transmitting on the HI setting (6 watts) and was in sight of the local
CG building - so the transmission "should have" triggered the automatic
response. The HX850S is brand new out of a sealed box so I doubt it is
defective... but one never knows.
I really would like to be sure that I can rely on the unit for a distress
call - but of course I won't know that until I am in an distress situation
and push "the red button"!
Any ideas or suggestions on how to check the DSC funtionality?
|