What test modes does the MOB1 have?
There are three test modes on the MOB1; Functional, DSC and AIS/GPS.
The Functional test should be carried out once a month and will display the length of time the battery has been used for. It will also apply a load to the battery to test that the battery is not faulty or has been discharged. It carries out other functional tests on the electronic circuitry. It does not test the GPS or make test transmissions.
The DSC test should be carried out no more than two times a year. This test sends a single DSC transmission to the MMSI programmed into the MOB1, which will be displayed on the vessels DSC radio. It does not send a Distress or Distres Relay call and the call does not contain the position.
The AIS test should be carried out no more than three times a year. This test activates the GPS receiver and after the position is determined it makes an AIS transmission, which will display on a suitable AIS receiver or chartplotter. The received AIS message will show the position determined by the MOB1 GPS receiver. There is also a transmission of the AIS text message containing the words “MOB TEST”. Note that this test must be done with the MOB1 in full view of the sky. Without a valid position, the MOB1 will not transmit any AIS messages.
The limitation on the number of tests a year is to ensure that the battery will still have its full operational life at the expiry date of the battery.
Why does my MOB1 show red flashes if I try to programme the MMSI number?
If the unit fails to programme, showing the flashing red LED on completion, please try again. Turn the MOB1 on in programming mode again and retry. There is no need to exit the programming screen on the programme. If the programming page is showing, simply press F10 again to commence the programming sequence again.
If you are having problems programming your MOB1, please check the following guidance.
1) Make sure that your screen brightness is set to maximum, using the controls on the monitor or device.
2) Ensure that you have commenced programming within 50 seconds of putting the MOB1 into programming mode. Failure to do this will cause the MOB1 to have turned off before communication starts. Note that once programming has commenced (The white box is flashing) the MOB1 should stay on until the programming sequence is completed.
3) Ensure that the MOB1 is placed over the white square with the rubber programming adaptor firmly touching the screen and with the aperture in the rubber close to the centre of the white box.
4) Avoid programming the MOB1 in bright ambient light conditions. If necessary point the screen away from direct or bright sources of light such as sun through a window. (In extreme circumstances, especially with older screens that have lost their brightness, place a thick cloth over the screen and MOB1 to block out the ambient light.)
5) The MOB1 configuration software requires precise timing, which may be disrupted by other applications running at the same time, especially on slower computers. If you still encounter problems, try shutting down all un-necessary applications, including anti virus
software.
Which DSC radios are compatible with the MOB1?
Ocean Signal recommends using one of the radios from the list below with the rescueME MOB1. The following class D DSC radios have been tested in cooperation with the manufacturer and confirmed to receive the Individual Distress Relay call.
ICOM:
Current models; M91, M323, M423, M506
Older models; M411, M421, M505, M603
Simrad: RS90
Standard Horizon: GX1600E (Explorer); Newer models are also likely to work but have not been tested.
Class A DSC radios have always been able to receive this call and all models are believed to be compatible.
This list is not exhaustive and will be added to as more compatible models are confirmed.
Ocean Signal welcomes enquiries from other manufacturers wishing to have their radios listed here.
What DSC functions are allowed in my country?
The DSC functionality of the MOB1 is limited by regulations in each country. The list below indicates which functions you may expect.
AIS only: Canada, France, Denmark, Latvia
AIS + DSC Individual Distress Relay call plus group call sent after 30minutes: USA
AIS + DSC Individual Distress Relay call only: Germany, Netherlands, United Kingdom
AIS + DSC Individual Distress Relay,All Ships Distress Alert (manual initiation): All other European countries
AIS + DSC Individual Distress Relay, All Ships Distress Alert, sent once on MOB1 activation and on manual initiation: Rest of the World.