FCC Exam Question: 37F1

How is mutual interference on 518 kHz among NAVTEX stations avoided?

A. Transmissions scheduled on a time-sharing basis, power limited and station assignment codes are
B. All stations transmit at the same time but stations are limited to daytime operation only to reduce the radius of
C. Transmitter power is limited, station assignment codes are not shared by other NAVAREAS and stations
D. Station codes are not shared by other NAVAREAS, transmissions scheduled on a time-sharing basis and
Correct Answer: A

Explanation: NAVTEX (NAVigational TEXt) stations on 518 kHz avoid mutual interference through a combination of techniques. Primarily, transmissions are **scheduled on a time-sharing basis** using Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA). Each station is allocated a specific 10-minute time slot within a four-hour cycle, preventing simultaneous transmissions from multiple stations that might be received by a single vessel. Additionally, **transmitter power is limited**, which restricts the service area of each station, reducing the likelihood of a receiver picking up signals from distant, out-of-area stations transmitting in different time slots. Finally, **station assignment codes** (the B1 character in a NAVTEX message) are unique within a geographical area (NAVAREA) and allow receivers to be programmed to accept messages only from specific, relevant stations, effectively filtering out transmissions from other, potentially interfering stations. Options B and C are incorrect because NAVTEX stations do *not* transmit at the same time and are not limited to daytime operation only. Option D is incomplete and less accurate than A, missing the crucial detail of power limitations in the context of avoiding local mutual interference.

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Includes Elements 1, 3, 6, 7R, 8, and 9.