Set – 06:

1) Signalling: (Part - 1) 4X5=24

a) State the purpose of signalling .

Ans : The purpose of the International Code of Signals is to provide ways and means
of communication in situations related essentially to safety of navigation and
persons, especially when language difficulties arise. In the preparation of the Code,
account was taken of the fact that wide application of radiotelephony and
radiotelegraphy can provide simple and effective means o communication in plain
language whenever language difficulties do not exist.

b. Name seven methods of signalling

Ans: The Seven methods of signaling which may be used are:

(a) Flag signaling.

(b) Flashing light signaling.
(c) Sound signaling.
(d) Voice over a loud hailer.
(e) Radiotelegraphy.
(f) Radiotelephony.
(g) Morse signaling by hand flags or arms.

c. Define

(1) Identity Signal : Identity signal or call sign is the group of letters and figures
assigned to each station by its administration.

(2) Tack line : Tackline is a length of halyard about 2 m (6 ft.) long, used to separate
each group of flags.

d. State the meaning of the following:

RPT: Repeat signal “I repeat” or “Repeat what you have sent” or “Repeat what
you have received”.
AAA : Full stop or decimal point.

CQ: Call for unknown station(s) or general call to all stations.

(Note: When this signal is used in voice transmission, it should be
pronounced in accordance with the letter spelling table.)

G12345E : = “Longitude 123°45' E”.

e. Describe shape, colour and meaning of Code Flags B & H

Ans:

Flag and first usage notes

Flag Shape and colour Meaning
Bravo (B) It is a rectangular flag. It has one colour. The I am taking in, or discharging, or
whole flag colours is Red and shape is carrying dangerous goods.
swallowtail.
Hotel (H) It is a rectangular flag. It has two colours. It’s I have a pilot on board
flaying side Red and hoisting side. It is
vertically divided by White-Red vertical.

f. What is the meaning of

1) MAYDAY (Distress): Indicates that a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle is threatened by grave and
imminent danger and requests immediate assistance.

2) PANPAN (Urgency): Indicates that the calling station has a very urgent message to transmit concerning
the safety of a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle, or the safety of a person.
a) What are the use of -

i) Single Letter Signal : Single-letter signals allocated to significations

which are very urgent, important, or of very common use.

ii) Double Letter Signal : Two-letter signals for General Signal Code.

iii) Three Letter : Three-letter signals beginning with “M” for Medical
Signal Code.

iv) Signal starts with Letter 'M' : means Signal taken from medical section
of ICS.