🔍 Key Concepts

• GMDSS VHF radiotelephone equipment requirements under SOLAS and FCC rules • The definition of effective radiated power (ERP) and why a minimum is specified • Differences between low‑power and high‑power settings on marine VHF radios

💭 Think About

• Think about what power level is typically used for short‑range, line‑of‑sight VHF communications on small vessels and handheld sets. • Recall the standard power output for fixed‑mount marine VHF radios, then compare how much lower the minimum ERP can be while still ensuring reliable distress and safety communication. • Consider which of the options is commonly associated with a "low‑power" setting on a marine VHF set.

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify in current GMDSS/SOLAS or FCC marine VHF specifications what the minimum ERP is for required shipboard VHF installations. • Check which of the listed wattages is widely used for handheld VHF radios and which is typical for fixed‑mount sets (often around 25 watts, not listed here). • Eliminate any answer that seems unrealistically low for reliable distress and safety communications on VHF.