Equipment and Technology Flashcards
7 cards from real VTS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Equipment and Technology flashcards as text
What is the standard VHF working channel used by U.S. Coast Guard VTS for port operations communications?
Answer: Channel 14
VTS working channels vary by port, but Channel 14 is commonly designated as a VTS working channel in many U.S. ports, while 16 is the distress/calling channel.
An Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) in a VTS center uses which type of chart data as its primary format?
Answer: Electronic Navigational Charts (ENC) in S-57 format
ENCs in IHO S-57 format are the official vector chart format used by ECDIS, providing object-based data that supports automated alerts and overlays.
In VTS operations, what does the term 'ARPA' refer to?
Answer: Automatic Radar Plotting Aid — a system that tracks targets and calculates CPA/TCPA
ARPA (Automatic Radar Plotting Aid) automatically tracks radar targets and calculates closest point of approach (CPA) and time to CPA (TCPA).
A VTS operator's AIS display shows a vessel with navigational status '1'. What does this indicate?
Answer: At anchor
AIS navigational status code '1' means 'at anchor,' while '0' means under way using engine.
What is the main purpose of a Vessel Traffic Service's CCTV system compared to its radar system?
Answer: CCTV allows visual identification and monitoring of vessels and waterway conditions
CCTV provides visual confirmation and situational awareness that radar cannot, including identifying vessel types, reading hull markings, and monitoring dock areas.
What does 'MMSI' stand for and what is its primary function in VTS communications?
Answer: Maritime Mobile Service Identity — a unique 9-digit number identifying a vessel's radio station
MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) is a unique 9-digit number assigned to each vessel's radio station, used for DSC calls and AIS identification.
In VTS radar operations, what is the purpose of the 'guard zone' or 'alarm zone' feature?
Answer: To automatically alert the operator when a radar target enters a defined area
A guard zone triggers an audible or visual alarm whenever a tracked radar target enters a user-defined ring or sector, helping operators monitor critical areas.