User Manual

GX1600Page 10
After a transmission, say “over,” and release the microphone’s push-to-talk
(PTT) switch. When all communication with the other vessel is completed, end
the last transmission by stating your Call Sign and the word “out.” Note that it
is not necessary to state your Call Sign with each transmission, only at the
beginning and end of the contact.
Remember to return to Channel 16 when not using another channel. Some
radios automatically monitor Channel 16 even when set to other channels or
when scanning.
5.7 MAKING TELEPHONE CALLS
To make a radiotelephone call, use a channel designated for this purpose, The
fastest way to learn which channels are used for radiotelephone traffic is to
ask at a local marina. Channels available for such traffic are designated Pub-
lic Correspondence channels on the channel charts in this manual. Some
examples for USA use are Channels 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 84, 85, 86, and 87.
Call the marine operator and identify yourself by your vessel’s name, The marine
operator will then ask you how you will pay for the call (telephone credit card,
collect, etc.) and then link your radio transmission to the telephone lines.
The marine telephone company managing the VHF channel you are using
may charge a link-up fee in addition to the cost of the call.
5.8 OPERATING ON CHANNELS 13 AND 67
Channel 13 is used at docks and bridges and by vessels maneuvering in port.
Messages on this channel must concern navigation only, such as meeting and
passing in restricted waters.
Channel 67 is used for navigational traffic between vessels.
By regulation, power is normally limited to 1 Watt on these channels. Your
radio is programmed to automatically reduce power to this limit on these chan-
nels. However, in certain situations it may be necessary to temporarily use a
higher power. See page 23 ( key) for means to temporarily override the
low-power limit on these two channels.
5.9 AUTOMATED RADIO CHECK SERVICE
In areas across the country, Sea Tow offers boaters a way to conduct radio
checks. To use Sea Tow’s free Automated Radio Check service, simply tune
your VHF radio to the appropriate channel for your location and conduct a
radio check as you typically would. Upon releasing your radio’s microphone,
the system will play an automated message and relay your transmission back
to you, thereby letting you know how your signal will sound to other boaters.