Navigational and safety communications must be simple and unambiguous when it comes to ship to shore, shore to ship, or ship to ship communication. That’s why there is a list of standard marine communication phrases and rules to help simplify things. This is especially important in today’s modern world where a host of international trading vessels navigate the same waters, many speaking different languages. Without some sort of standardized communication platform, the risk for confusion and error is far too great.

As decided by the 1973 IMO Maritime Safety Committee, there must be a common language that is used for navigational purposes, and that language is English. As a result of this decision, the Standard Marine Navigational Vocabulary (SMNV) was created and adopted in 1977 and amended in 1985.

Since then, it has been updated several times to better reflect the needs of the modern-day world. Any officer charged with navigating a ship containing 500 gross tonnage or more must prove their capability to understand and use the SMCP in order to receive certification. This is specified under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers.

While the list of standard marine communication phrases is long, much too long to fit in one blog, we are going to go over some of the key points found within the guidelines. For more information, please reference the full report put together by the International Maritime Organization.

General Overview of Marine Communication Rules & Phrases

What to avoid

There are certain words and phrases that are warned against using when communicating out on the water; this includes the use of synonyms, contracted forms, and fully worded answers to “yes/no” questions.

Typographical conventions

() Brackets are used to signal that a part of the message – the part within the brackets – can be added where relevant.

/ Oblique strokes are used to indicate that the items on either side of the strokes are alternatives of one another.

…. Dots are used to indicate that the receiver is to fill in the area where the dots occur with relevant information

The use of italic letters signals that some type of information is being requested.

~ Tildes are used as stand-ins for the invariable part of an aforementioned standard phrase which is then followed by a variable addendum.

Spelling out letters

If something is spelled out, there are a table of letters and corresponding words that must be used so that there is no confusion. For instance, A is alfa; B is bravo; C is Charlie.

Pronouncing digits and numbers

When numbers are used, they may be spelled out or pronounced using a specialized tone. For instance, the number 0 is pronounced ZEERO, and 1,000 is TOUSAND.

Message Markers

There are eight Message Markers that can be used for shore-to-ship and ship-to-shore communication.

1. Instruction
2. Advice
3. Warning
4. Information
5. Question
6. Answer
7. Request
8. Intention

Answering Questions & Requests

When responding to a yes or no question – the appropriate response is to say “Yes…” or “No…” – and then follow it up with the specified phrase in full.

If the requested information is not available, the appropriate response is: “stand by” – followed up with the time in which the information will become available.

If the information is unavailable for the foreseeable future, the response is “No information”

The Importance of Maritime Two Way Radios

Along with a standardized marine language, reliable two-way radios are crucial to maintaining peace and safety out on open waters. At Highland Wireless, we specialize in marine communication. Learn more

It’s very common for today’s urban structures to lack signal or service. Luckily there are a couple options that’ll improve the signal to your building, helping you stay on top of what matters most.

Why Do Buildings Get Poor Signal?

A big reason that more buildings are suffering from a lack of signal or service has to do with the latest building codes, especially in South Florida. The latest standards require stronger building materials like solid-poured concrete walls and LEED certified windows – all of which are great for hurricane-proofing a building and energy efficiency, but not so great for signal strength. That’s because these materials make it difficult for signals to penetrate the building.

In addition, if the building is located in a sea of other buildings, the signal is easily lost in the shuffle. We’ve heard a variety of scenarios in the past, such as the top floor of the building gets great service, but everything below it, not so much.

There are two different systems that can be used independently or in conjunction with another to address the issue: a cellular enhancement system and a radio enhancement system.

What is a Radio Enhancement System?

In-building radio enhancement systems provide a strong Radio Signal throughout your building -allowing two-way radios to work. This is especially important in an emergency when First Responders and Fire Department radios need to communicate all throughout your building to protect the people inside.

For the most part, a radio enhancement system consists of three main components: the donor antenna system, bi-directional amplifier, and distributed antenna system.

The donor antenna is placed on top of your building and pointed in the direction of the nearest communications tower. This is what draws the signal in and out of the building. This is the most important component of the system, which is why we rely on Category 5 Hurricane-Rated bracketing and R-56 Lightening Protection standards.

The bi-directional amplifier takes in the signal from the donor antenna and amplifies it throughout the building. It is also tasked with receiving signals from inside of the building and transmitting them to the donor antenna.

These two components operate best when connected to a network of in-building antennas, known as the Distributed Antenna System (DAS). This usually entails a coaxial cable, unequal power dividers and splitters, as well as ceiling-mounted antennas. In simple terms, the DAS offers a pathway for signals to navigate through.

Learn more about in-building radio enhancement systems

What is a Cellular Enhancement System?

If cell communication is near impossible in your building, you might need a cellular enhancement system – or what many people are now calling the “fourth utility.” Cell phones have just about taken over landlines and have become a necessary component to the workplace. That’s why reliable in-building coverage is such an important feature in today’s modern office.

Each building is a little different and requires a unique system of amplifiers to generate a strong signal throughout the building. Factors that influence the type of amplifier you require include: the size of your facility, the reason(s) signal is lacking to begin with, specific coverage requirements, and budget.

Stay Connected & Prosper

From radio signal strength to cellular signal strength, communication is crucial in any workplace. Let us help your business stay connected. At Highland Wireless, we offer free pre-testing of signal strength levels as well as site surveys to help figure out the best solution. We can even provide a quote for buildings in pre-construction.

Contact us today to set up your free pre- testing of signal strength levels along with a site survey.

The Kenwood NX-300 UHF NexEdge two-way radio has so much to offer – from mixed digital and FM analog operation to built-in GPS and superb durability. Essentially, just about anything you’d want from a digital radio, this fully-featured radio is built to serve.

6 Reasons the Kenwood NX-300 is a Go-to Two-way Radio

#1. Large Screen

Not everyone wants a large screen on their two-way radio, but there are many benefits to having one. If a large screen is something that will benefit your team, this radio is a great go-to option.

The NX-300 grants users a larger screen than the NX-320, which means it can display twice as many characters. This allows users to access more information at once and get more done, seamlessly.

#2. Programmable Features for Customization

In addition, the NX-300 offers a variety of programmable features so that you can make it work for your needs. Customization is key for a variety of different work environments, scenarios and conditions. Let your team call the shots by setting this radio up to work for you.

#3. Large Internal Memory

The NX-300 boasts a large internal memory, which helps it operate faster and at a higher capacity than other two-way radios. Plus, it can process a substantial number of frequencies and channels.

#4. Durability Matters

From accidental drops to unexpected calamities, two-way radios must stand up to everything that happens day-to-day out in the field. This is why your standard smartphone would never work – it’s far too fragile. Not all two-way radios are built to the same tough standards, but the NX-300 is one of the tougher options out there. In fact, it is incredibly durable.

The NX-300 can stand up to being submerged in water and doused in dirt. Accidently drop it? No problem! This is what makes it ideal for so many different industries – from marine applications to construction sites.

#5. Crisp & Clear Audio

Forget saying “what?” over and over again. Nothing is more important out in the field than the ability to communicate clearly and to get each message across in a timely manner. A disrupted signal or poor audio quality can quickly lead to mistakes and a loss of productivity. That’s why sound quality is so important on two-way radios, and the audio quality on the NX-300 leaves

nothing to be desired – offering crisp and clear communication when you need it most.

#6. Built in GPS

This radio comes with the option for a built in GPS unit, allowing you to keep track of your team at all times.

NX-300 Specs:

• Large screen to display more characters (larger than the NX-320, displays 2x as many characters)
• Customizable features – program it to operate how you see fit
• Commonly selected for marine and construction environments
• IP54/55 water and dust intrusion
• Immersion (IP67) Option
• Backlit Dot Matrix LCD
• Multi-language display
• Emergency call features
• On/Off volume knob
• 12-key keypad models
• 2 PF keys on the side
• KMC-51/52 Digital noise-canceling speaker mic option

Rent or Buy Two-Way Radios from Highland Wireless

As a premier radio communications provider, we offer our customers a variety of Motorola and Kenwood two-way radios for rent and purchase at competitive rates. Contact us today to learn more.

As an authorized dealer of Kenwood two-way radios, we know firsthand just how much these durable and reliable radios offer a wide variety of industries. From the NX 300 to the NX 800, Kenwood provides next level radio communication.

This Japanese company has come a long way since it was founded in 1946 as the Kasuga Radio Co. Ltd. Created by a group of young entrepreneurs in Komagane City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan, the goal was to take advantage of the increasing market for postwar consumer products. In 1960, the company name was slimmed down to Trio Corporation. Three years later, in 1963, they established their first office overseas in Los Angeles, California. 

Where Did the Name Kenwood Come From?

The name Kenwood was created as a name that American consumers could relate to – it is the combination of the name “Ken,” which is common in both America and Japan, and “Wood,” which referenced the durable substance as well as the first overseas office in Hollywood.

It wasn’t long before the brand recognition associated with Kenwood surpassed that of Trio. And so, in 1986, Trio officially renamed the company Kenwood.

More recently, in 2008, Kenwood made a deal to merge with JVC and formed a new holding company known as JVCKenwood.

Kenwood History: A Brief Look at the Company’s Achievements over the Years 

Kenwood Corporation remains one of Japan’s biggest and most successful consumer-oriented electronics companies. While they are largely focused on the production and sale of audio equipment, they are gaining more attention for entering into new markets like meteorological satellite receivers.

Kenwood, or Kasuaga Radio Company, was created at a time when much of Japan was left in shambles from World War II. This created a climate in which the nation was excited to re-create its national economy. Since electronic equipment was gaining a lot of popularity at this time, the company focused on created high-fidelity electronic components and amateur radio equipment.

It wasn’t long before they become the leading electronic consumer products producer in Japan. In 1949, they made a huge jump in technology-intensive manufacturing by creating the first-ever high-frequency transformer.

Innovation continued into the 1950s when the company created the first FM tuner in Japan. As Japan’s local economy expanded, so too did the company and its operations, allowing them to expand onto the international scene.

It only took a few years for them to make their way to the top of the quickly expanding consumer electronics market in the US. Simultaneously, the company was busy creating subsidiaries in Belgium, France, Italy, Canada, West Germany, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Australia.

In 1969, the company had grown large enough to earn a spot on the Tokyo Stock Exchange where they began selling shares of the company to the public.

In 1979, Kenwood created the first amplifier with multiple stage power sources, as well as the first Liquid Crystal Display, this was the original hand-held radio controlled by a microprocessor.

Modern Day Kenwood

Today, Kenwood makes a range of products including home audio, car audio, car entertainment systems, amateur radio, DECT wireless intercom sectors and professional two-way radios. The Kenwood USA Corporation subsidiary is currently located in Long Beach, California. They are not only in Japan and the United States, but also many countries around the globe.

Shop Kenwood Radios

Kenwood maintains a leading role in the development of high-quality products that are reliable, technologically advanced and easy to use.

We offer a variety of professional Kenwood two-way radios for rent and sale. Learn more and check out our selection

Born in 1928, Motorola has been innovating the latest devices in communications and electronics for over 90 years. In the 1930s, Motorola was the first to invent car radios and public safety networks. Thereafter, in 1969, they pioneered the equipment that allowed astronauts to communicate from the moon.  They did it again in 1983, inventing the first handheld cellular phone and system.

Innovation remains a key focus at the Motorola company, hence why their two-way radios remain an important accessory in many industries.

The Origins of Motorola

Motorola was founded on September 25, 1928 by two brothers, Joseph and Paul Gavin. They called themselves the Galvin Manufacturing Corporation and were established in Chicago, Illinois.

During their first year as a corporation, they released their first product – a battery eliminator. It was a power converter that gave battery-powered radios the ‘power’ to operate using household electricity. The first customer to land in their laps was Sears, Roebuck and Co., who purchased a bunch of the battery eliminators and sold them to their customers.

Shortly after their debut as a company, the Galvin Manufacturing Corporation produced the very first Motorola radio that was intended to be used in cars. Hence, the name – motor-ola; motor meaning car, and ola meaning sound. The name also translates to ‘sound in motion.’ In time, it was this name, ‘Motorola’ that would stick with the brand and make it a household name. 

Milestones Throughout Motorola’s History

In 1930, Motorola car radios began appearing in police departments and municipalities, turning into a radio provider for first responders.

That same year, they also went global, making their first sale outside of the US to W. Oldenburger in Mexico City, who purchased two of their Motorola car radios.

6 years later, in 1936, the company created the Motorola Police Cruiser radio receiver, a tough and durable one-way car radio that allowed officers out on the road to tune into police broadcasts. To this day, the company continues to produce radios for public safety use.

In 1937, Motorola entered the home entertainment business when they created a line of Motorola phonographs and home radios.

In 1938, the company launched their first major advertising campaign that included print media, billboards, and road signs.

In 1939, the Galvin Manufacturing Corporation created a line of affordable Motorola AM two-way radio equipment – this included the T6920 mobile transmitter. The goal was to make this technology more readily available to public safety agencies in order to improve communication and the overall safety and service they offered their communities.

By 1940 the world was introduced to the first Handie-Talkie SCR536 AM portable two-way radio. This became an icon of World War II.

In 1941, the police force working in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania became the first to have cars outfitted with Motorola FM equipment.

By 1943, they had created the world’s first FM portable two-way radio. It weighed a whopping 35 pounds and could communicate across 10 to 20 miles.

In October 1944, the Yellow Cab Co. adopted two-way radios in their vehicles across the US.

In 1947, the Galvin Manufacturing Corporation officially changed their name to Motorola, Inc.

Also, in 1947, they began designing portable two-way radios for businesses.

In 1955, they created the first Motorola germanium transistor for car radios – this was Motorola’s first mass produced semiconductor.

In the 1960s, Motorola began introducing sleeker versions of their portable two-way radio. It was considered sleek and lightweight at the time, but it still weighed a staggering 33 pounds.

On April 3, 1973, Motorola showed off the world’s first ever portable telephone in a public demonstration in the heart of New York City.

From there, the company continued to expand and change the world of communication as we knew it. By 2008, they released the world’s first LTE 700 MHz data demonstration. And in 2012, they gave the world the first ever mission critical handheld public safety LTE device.

Motorola Two-Way Radios Continue to Lead the Way

Today, Motorola remains one of the most trusted names for two-way radio technology. We are a proud Motorola two-way radio dealer, offering professional radios for rent and sale – shop our collection.