FCC Exam Question: 46G4

The USA-INT control on VHF units:

A. Selects duplex operations for U.S. coastal waters and simplex operations in non-U.S. waters, on the "alpha"
B. Ensures that the “alpha” channels are correctly set to duplex for use in U.S. waters & on VTS channels.
C. Changes selected international duplex channels to simplex channels for use in U.S. waters, on the "alpha"
D. Changes selected international simplex channels to duplex channels for use in U.S. waters, on the "alpha"
Correct Answer: C

Explanation: The USA-INT control on a VHF marine radio adapts the channel assignments to comply with regulations for the operating region. Internationally, many VHF channels are designated for *duplex* operation, using separate frequencies for transmit and receive, often for communication with shore stations. However, within U.S. waters, regulations permit or require certain of these channels to be used in *simplex* mode (transmitting and receiving on the same frequency) for direct ship-to-ship communication, enhancing safety and efficiency. Therefore, selecting "USA" mode changes these designated international duplex channels to simplex operation for use in U.S. waters. This makes option C correct. Options A and D are incorrect because they describe the opposite action or a misrepresentation of the primary function. Option B is incorrect because the control's main purpose isn't to *ensure* duplex operation in U.S. waters, but rather to *change* certain channels from duplex to simplex for specific U.S. applications.

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