VHF-DSC: A complete guide to passing the SRC VHF Marine Operators Examination

Publisher: Amberley Marine, £24.95

Publication Date:

CA Library Reference: 16742

UK-based Amberley Marine has produced a useful updated DVD focusing on VHF and DSC to add to their range of videos covering topics such as navigation, weather and first aid.

Written by Tim Bartlett, author of the ‘RYA Book of Navigation’, the film features clear explanations of the basics of VHF radio systems and procedures and includes several sequences filmed on boats and at coastguard stations which provide helpful examples of radio use in practice. Though not strictly relevant to the topic, there is also a section on what to expect during a helicopter rescue - again complete with realistic footage.

For a newcomer to marine communication, this film offers an excellent starting point although anyone who has already obtained a VHF Operator’s Certificate will find most of the subject matter familiar and the pace of the film perhaps rather slow: for example the entire phonetic alphabet is recited at a speed appropriate for a kindergarten reading class. However the DVD does also include interesting information about other communication systems such as SSB and Inmarsat and towards the end there is an excellent and comprehensive section on DSC which will be of interest to anyone wanting to upgrade to the Short Range Certificate (SRC) — now compulsory if GMDSS equipment is fitted in your boat. - NH