MSIB: Newly published technical standard addresses LED radio interference to maritime VHF radio and AIS
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The Coast Guard Inspections and Compliance Directorate has published Marine Safety Information Bulletin 03-22 to inform mariners of newly published technical standard addressing LED radio interference to maritime VHF radio and AIS.
USCG Marine Safety Alert 13-18
advised mariners of poor reception on VHF frequencies used for
radiotelephone and automatic identification systems (AIS) when in the
vicinity of light emitting diode (LED) lighting on-board ships
(including navigation lights and deck lights). Consequentially, the
Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services (RTCM), a 501(c)(3)
international non-profit scientific, professional and educational
organization established to address problems such as this, was asked to
investigate this problem and develop a solution. Consequently, RTCM in
cooperation with the Coast Guard researched numerous electromagnetic
compatibility (EMC) standards and performed exhaustive EMC tests of
various LED navigation and other above deck lighting.
On 13 April
2022, RTCM adopted RTCM Standard 13700.0 Electromagnetic Compatibility
Requirements for Light Emitting Diode (LED) Devices and other Electrical
and Electronic Equipment in the Vicinity of Shipboard Antennas for the
Protection of On-Board Receivers. RTCM Standard 13700.0 is designed to
protect GMDSS MF/HF and mobile satellite receivers, maritime VHF, AIS
and GNSS receivers from deck-mounted electrical equipment, especially
equipment installed near antennas. The USCG is confident that LED
lighting or other equipment meeting this standard will not cause
interference to these systems.
The Coast Guard urges
manufacturers, installers and users of LED navigation lights, deck
lights and other above-deck lighting, as well as other electrical
equipment installed in the vicinity of shipboard antennas, to consider
use of this standard.
/Coast Guard Maritime Commons