7
MEM (Memory)
The
MEM
key may be used to initiate a Memory Scan and gives you the
option of adding or deleting channels from the radio's scan list memory.
CALL
By pressing the
CALL
key you can make a new call, return the last in-
coming call, place a call to all ships or to one of up to 10 stored MMSI
numbers from a saved directory.
DISTRESS
By lifting up the red cover and holding down the
DISTRESS
button for
three seconds, you will send a distress call to the Coast Guard and any
other ship within range of you.
Selector
Use the
Selector
to scroll through the channels and various menu op-
tions.
PTT (Press to Talk)
The PTT key is the talk button on the microphone. Press and hold it
down to talk when making or receiving a call.
DSC Calling vs. non-DSC Calling
The MT-300 supports two types of calls, Digital Selective Calls (DSC)
and non-Digital Selective Calls. A non-DSC call is the traditional
method where an individual hails another vessel on Ch. 16, then asks
the other party to switch to a working channel set aside for the desired
communication type. Once they have left Ch. 16 and the selected work-
ing channel is clear, the individual hails the vessel again to initiate
communication.
What is a DSC call?
A relatively new technology, digital selective calling (DSC) gives you
the capability to dial another boat directly via the vessel's MMSI (Mari-
time Mobile Service Identity) number, which functions much like a
phone number. Digital Selective Calling simplifies the calling process,
because you don't have to hail the vessel on Ch. 16 nor do you have to
verbally direct them to the working channel you want them to switch to
for communication. When their DSC radio receives your call, it auto-
matically will switch to the channel you selected for communication.
The primary reason DSC was created was to enhance boater safety. It
does this in several ways. When working in tandem with a GPS unit, it
helps the Coast Guard respond more quickly to a Distress Call, since
the location of the vessel in distress will be automatically transmitted
when the signal is sent out. It will automatically repeat a distress sig-
nal every four minutes. That would come in handy if, as in the case of a
