🔍 Key Concepts

• Inmarsat-C antenna design on typical SOLAS vessels • Difference between directional (steered) antennas and fixed omni-directional antennas • How small L-band terminals maintain satellite link without operator aiming

💭 Think About

• Think about the size and cost of typical Inmarsat-C ship terminals: are they designed for manual aiming or to work automatically in all directions? • Does Inmarsat-C equipment normally require the operator to steer or switch the antenna pattern when changing satellites? • If the antenna had to be highly directional, what extra hardware or controls would be needed on the bridge, and is that practical for every vessel?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify whether standard Inmarsat-C antennas are described as omni-directional or tracking/directional in your study materials. • Check if the exam materials mention any operator-controlled switching of antenna patterns for Inmarsat-C (not Inmarsat-B/Fleet systems). • Confirm that the answer choice you pick matches a simple, automatic installation with minimal operator intervention for most ships.