KSM uses the original transmitters, receivers and antennas of KPH. The station is licensed for communications with ships at sea using both CW and RTTY modes in the MF and HF marine bands. KSM accepts traffic from ships at sea for onward transmission to addressees ashore. No charge is made for this service.

KSM Frequencies (in kc)

CW:

426
500
4350.5
6474.0
8438.3
12993.0
16914.0
22445.8

RTTY:

8433.0
12631.0

KSM uses two modes of "RTTY": Baudot and FEC. Baudot transmissions are at 170cps shift, 45 baud. FEC transmissions are at 170cps shift, 100 baud.

On CW, KSM broadcasts its "wheel" (a repeating message inviting ships to call and giving the frequencies being used) at about 18wpm. When working ships, the KSM operator will key all frequencies so listeners will be able to hear the shore side of the contact no matter what frequency they are monitoring. All maritime radio operations are duplex. Once the ship makes contact with KSM it will shift from the calling to a working frequency. The KSM operator will repeat this frequency so listeners can attempt to hear the ship. KSM sends high seas weather for the Pacific at 2130GMT at 25wpm.

On RTTY, KSM broadcasts marine weather and press information alternating between the two modes listed above.

KSM Hours of Operation

Like all MRHS activities, KSM is operated on a volunteer basis. Thus our hours of operation are limited.

KSM is normally on the air each Saturday from about 1900GMT to 2300GMT.

KSM Information

Updated schedule and frequency information is distributed via the MRHS mailing list. To join the list send an email message to Radiomarine-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

You can also contact KSM directly by email at: KSM@radiomarine.org

KSM Reception Reports:

Send your KSM reception reports to QSL Mistress Denice Stoops at:

PO Box 381
Bolinas, California 94926
USA,