Subelement A: Rules & Regulations— Topic 1: Equipment Requirements
Question 1-1A6
Element 1 (MROP)Shipboard transmitters using F3E emission (FM voice) may not exceed what carrier power?
Explanation
Shipboard transmitters using F3E (FM voice) emission, particularly those operating in the VHF Marine Radiotelephone Service (governed by FCC Part 80), are subject to specific power limitations. For operations in the 156-162 MHz band (the standard marine VHF channels), the maximum authorized carrier power is **25 watts**.
This regulatory limit is established to minimize interference between vessels and shore stations, efficiently manage the shared spectrum in a congested environment, and ensure reliable short-range communications. While higher power limits exist for other types of emissions or marine services (like HF SSB for longer distances), 25 watts is the standard maximum for VHF FM voice on ships. Therefore, 500, 250, and 100 watts all exceed this specific regulatory limit for F3E emission in the marine VHF band.
Related Questions
1-1A4 What equipment is programmed to initiate transmission of distress alerts and calls to individual stations?1-1A5 What is the minimum transmitter power level required by the FCC for a medium-frequency transmitter aboard a compulsorily fitted vessel?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?1-20D3 Which of the following terms is defined as a back-up power source that provides power to radio installations for the purpose of conducting Distress and Safety communications when the vessel’s main and emergency generators cannot?