Subelement A: Rules & Regulations— Topic 1: Equipment Requirements
Question 1-1A5
Element 1 (MROP)What is the minimum transmitter power level required by the FCC for a medium-frequency transmitter aboard a compulsorily fitted vessel?
Explanation
For vessels required to carry medium-frequency (MF) radiotelephone equipment, specific FCC regulations (Part 80) are in place to ensure reliable communication, especially for safety purposes on the 2182 kHz distress frequency. These regulations mandate a minimum transmitter power level to guarantee a baseline signal strength. The main MF radiotelephone transmitter on such a vessel must be capable of delivering at least **60 watts Peak Envelope Power (PEP)**.
Option A suggests 100 watts, which is a common output for HF SSB radios but not the specified minimum for MF. Option C is incorrect because the FCC sets a fixed regulatory minimum power, rather than leaving it to a subjective "predictably needed" power. Option D describes typical specifications for a VHF marine radio (25 watts is the high power setting for VHF), not an MF transmitter.
Related Questions
1-1A3 Small passenger vessels that sail 20 to 150 nautical miles from the nearest land must have what additional equipment?1-1A4 What equipment is programmed to initiate transmission of distress alerts and calls to individual stations?1-1A6 Shipboard transmitters using F3E emission (FM voice) may not exceed what carrier power?1-20D1 For a small passenger vessel inspection, reserve power batteries must be tested:1-20D2 What are the characteristics of the Reserve Source of Energy under GMDSS?