MMSI number(s) when you have multiple DSC radios

[H45DS]

I have a fixed DSC-capable VHF on our boat, and all the DSC features work just fine. I have it programmed with our vessel's MMSI number, wired to our chartplotter, etc. It works great, and the technology is a huge benefit should something really bad happen at sea.

I recently picked up an iCOM IC-M92D handheld, primarily to be used by the helmsman on watch "just in case" (along with a PLB). As I'm thinking about taking it out of the box and setting things up, I believe that the MMSI relates to our vessels, and since the radio is a part of our vessel it would use the same MMSI number as our fixed VHF radio. Just wanted to see if anyone out there has a counter viewpoint.

 

[Rick D]

I programmed mine the same.

 

[Kings Gambit]

What happens to the hand-held that's now "tagged" to the boat if you sell the boat? Can it be reprogrammed--how many times?

 

[Keith13315]

It goes with the boat all of the radios I know of are NOT re-programable. It also limits the "portability" part of the equation. I got a remote MIC for my station radio for the cockpit.

 

[quadrille38]

If you read the MMSI requirements they tell you explicitly that the MMSI belongs to the boat. So any radios on the boat should use the boats number. Unfortunately if you can't reprogram it means the radio goes with the boat if you sell it. The other solution would be to not program the number into the handheld and leave it unregistered so you have flexibility. But of course there is a downside to that. Similarly I'm upgrading from AIS receiver to add a Class B transponder and when I ordered the box from Defender they required I complete a form and send then the MMSI registration certificate so they could pre program the unit. They made if very clear it was programmable only once and if a mistake was made you are hosed. That's why they do it for you. And then of course that unit goes with the boat too.

 

[jsalley]

I just sold my boat (with fixed VHF programmed with MMSI) but kept my handheld that is programmed with the same number. The handheld can be sent back to the manufacturer (Standard Horizon) to have the MMSI deleted for a flat $14 fee, enabling it to be programmed with a new number.

 

[H45DS]

If you read the MMSI requirements they tell you explicitly that the MMSI belongs to the boat.

Quadrille, that's the same way I read it as well... the MMSI is, in effect, a "phone number" for your vessel.

 

[H45DS]

It goes with the boat all of the radios I know of are NOT re-programable. It also limits the "portability" part of the equation. I got a remote MIC for my station radio for the cockpit.

It is fair to say that most devices supporting DSC provide very limited programming (one iCOM radio I had prior to the 424 could be programmed twice). However, as at least one person has noted they may be sent back to their manufacturer to be cleared so that they may be reprogrammed. So you are not totally hosed as long as you are willing to spend a little money.

 

[quadrille38]

I just sold my boat (with fixed VHF programmed with MMSI) but kept my handheld that is programmed with the same number. The handheld can be sent back to the manufacturer (Standard Horizon) to have the MMSI deleted for a flat $14 fee, enabling it to be programmed with a new number.

Learned something new today. Thank you - good to know.

 

[chuckwayne]

That's true for the class B transponders, too. It is required that the manufacturer program the transmitters to prevent fake transponder IDs, but you can return a unit to them to have it reprogrammed

 

[Erieau]

There is an Industry Canada option for MMSIs to be programmed into a "Radio Not Assigned to a Particular Vessel."
I don't have the details handy, but that's a terrific option for a handheld.

 

[Meriachee]

Most manufactures will wipe the programming, probably for a cost. It's probably likely, given the current state of electronic disposability, to assume you'd probably just get a new radio with this weeks feature set.

 

[Chris Patterson]

Two weeks ago I contacted Standard about reburning the eeprom because I had one that was limited out. The unhelpful response from the factory was to FIND a service center to do this work. Micro electronics presenting few problems for me, they still refused to help me with it..I dunno, last year over a complaint with a new charger that went south, they sent me a new one no questions. Sooooo, I'm still trying to decide whether I'm unsettled by this or not. But I can save you from trying through Standard. No joy..

 

[H45DS]

Two weeks ago I contacted Standard about reburning the eeprom because I had one that was limited out. The unhelpful response from the factory was to FIND a service center to do this work. Micro electronics presenting few problems for me, they still refused to help me with it..I dunno, last year over a complaint with a new charger that went south, they sent me a new one no questions. Sooooo, I'm still trying to decide whether I'm unsettled by this or not. But I can save you from trying through Standard. No joy..

I had a VERY different experience with iCOM when I had to send back my old MC412 for reprogramming after receiving my Ship Station License and MMSI from the FCC. With shipping, I want to say it cost in the range of $25 and they were quite helpful. I'm not hawking iCOM, just providing my experience.