Subelement D: Other Equipment— Topic 20: Power Sources
Question 1-20D1
Element 1 (MROP)For a small passenger vessel inspection, reserve power batteries must be tested:
Explanation
Reserve power batteries on vessels subject to Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) requirements are critical for maintaining essential radio communications during a main power failure. To ensure their reliability, regulations mandate periodic testing.
Answer D is correct because FCC regulations, specifically 47 CFR Part 80, Subpart W, state that the reserve source of energy must be tested at intervals not exceeding 12 months, or during the vessel's inspection. This test typically involves a discharge with the normal operating load connected for a specified duration (e.g., one hour) to verify the battery's capacity and operational readiness under emergency conditions.
Answers A, B, and C suggest incorrect regulatory intervals for this comprehensive discharge test. While more frequent, less intensive checks (like voltage monitoring) might be part of good operating practice, the full regulatory test to confirm reserve power capability is mandated annually or during the official inspection.
Related Questions
1-1A5 What is the minimum transmitter power level required by the FCC for a medium-frequency transmitter aboard a compulsorily fitted vessel?1-1A6 Shipboard transmitters using F3E emission (FM voice) may not exceed what carrier power?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?1-20D4 In the event of failure of the main and emergency sources of electrical power, what is the term for the source required to supply the GMDSS console with power for conducting distress and other radio communications?