Overview
SIST EN ISO 9876:2000 specifies construction, performance, type testing and inspection requirements for shipborne marine facsimile receivers that decode meteorological charts. The standard covers both the radio receiver and the recording unit and aligns with CCIR Recommendation 343-1 and WMO technical characteristics for meteorological facsimile transmissions. Note: this CEN-adopted standard is designated for withdrawal when the revised ISO edition (ISO ID 66059) is published.
Key Topics
- Scope and purpose: Requirements apply to facsimile equipment intended as an aid to navigation by receiving graphical meteorological information.
- Equipment composition: System comprises a radio receiver and a recording unit designed for shipboard use, including routine maintenance and paper replacement under subdued lighting.
- Recording unit performance:
- Continuous recording during reception.
- Accepts audio-frequency input signals (600 ohm impedance) within specified level and frequency deviations.
- Automatic or manual IOC (index of cooperation) selection: IOC 576 and IOC 288.
- Scanning speeds: automatic/manual selection of 60, 90 and 120 scans per minute.
- Automatic response to control signals (IOC selection and start/stop via 300 Hz, 675 Hz and 450 Hz modulations).
- Automatic phasing with manual adjustment; pitch stability and line density requirements.
- Minimum recording width: 180 mm; recording material marking to indicate remaining length.
- Radio receiver performance:
- Receiving frequency coverage: general range 110 kHz to 27 MHz, with required capability across at least 3 MHz to 24 MHz; F3C emission reception and up to six preset spot frequencies.
- Frequency stability and drift limits across specified temperature range.
- Sensitivity targets for readable output (3 µV or less for >=3 MHz; 10 µV or less for 110 kHz–3 MHz).
- Selectivity and rejection: defined passband limits (6.2 kHz at 6 dB; 10 kHz at 66 dB) and image/intermediate frequency rejection levels (>=40 dB and >=60 dB respectively).
- Type tests and environmental tests: Performance and environmental testing (dry heat, damp heat, low temperature, vibration, conducted and radiated interference, EMC immunity, acoustic noise) referenced to IEC 945:1994 test methods.
Applications
- Ensures ship operators and equipment manufacturers deliver reliable meteorological chart reception as an operational navigation aid.
- Guides procurement and type approval of shipboard facsimile systems used by merchant and research vessels.
- Supports onboard maintenance procedures and crew training for facsimile receivers and chart interpretation.
Related Standards
- IEC 945:1994 (marine navigational equipment test methods)
- ISO/R 694:1968 (compass positioning guidance)
- CCIR Recommendation 343-1 (facsimile transmission of meteorological charts)
- WMO Technical Characteristics No. 386, Part III-7
For compliance and certification, consult the full SIST EN ISO 9876:2000 text and the listed normative references to verify test methods, limits and marking requirements.