Overview
ISO 9876:2015 - Ships and marine technology: Marine facsimile receivers for meteorological charts - defines construction, performance, type testing and inspection requirements for ship‑borne radio facsimile receivers that receive meteorological charts transmitted in accordance with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Publication No. 386, Part III‑5. The standard ensures reliable reception and readable chart reproduction as an aid to navigation at sea.
Key topics and technical requirements
ISO 9876:2015 covers both the recording unit and the radio receiver and specifies measurable performance and test methods:
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Construction and usability
- Receiver plus recording unit configuration
- Recording unit designed for paper and stylus changes under day or subdued artificial light
- Bridge‑mounted, weather‑protected equipment (in line with IEC 60945)
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Recording unit performance
- Continuous recording during reception
- Accepts audio‑frequency input (600 Ω) in the range specified (input level approximately −10 dBm to +10 dBm) and frequency shifts about a 1 900 Hz centre
- Automatic or manual Index of Cooperation (IOC) selection: IOC 576 and 288
- Scanning speeds: 60, 90 and 120 scans/min (automatic/manual)
- Automatic responses to IOC, phasing and stop control signals (300 Hz, 675 Hz, 450 Hz signals described)
- Minimum recording width: 180 mm; recording paper marked to show at least 1 m remaining
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Radio receiver performance
- Receiving range: equipment shall cover a range within 110 kHz to 27 MHz, with at least 3 MHz to 24 MHz capability and support for F3C emissions
- Up to six pre‑set spot frequencies with clear identification
- Frequency stability: drift not to exceed 50 Hz over +15 °C to +35 °C
- Sensitivity: ≤ 3 μV for ≥ 3 MHz; ≤ 10 μV for 110 kHz–3 MHz
- Selectivity: passband limits ≈ 6.2 kHz (6 dB) and 10 kHz (66 dB); image and intermediate frequency rejection specified
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Test methods and inspection
- Type testing using signal generators or actual facsimile transmissions
- Visual and performance checks for synchronization, pitch, completeness and chart fidelity
Applications and users
ISO 9876:2015 is intended for:
- Ship equipment manufacturers designing marine facsimile receivers
- Shipowners, ship operators and shipyards procuring bridge navigation equipment
- Classification societies and certification bodies performing type approval and inspection
- Marine electrical testing laboratories and maintenance teams ensuring reliable meteorological chart reception for voyage planning and safety
Related standards
- WMO Publication No. 386, Part III‑5 (facsimile transmission of meteorological charts)
- IEC 60945 - Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment - general requirements
- ITU Radio Regulations (F3C emission designation)
Compliance with ISO 9876:2015 helps ensure consistent, readable meteorological facsimiles on board ships, supporting safe navigation and operational decision‑making.