20 JUNE 2019 • FOGHORN FOGHORNFOCUS: OPERATIONS L ast year, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) issued an alert regarding the potential for Electro Magnetic Interference (EMI) between some LED lighting products and vital commu- nication devices like VHF radios and Automatic Identification Systems (AIS). EMI occurs when an electromagnetic wave emits from an electronic circuit in one device at a frequency that conflicts with the communication frequency used by another device. VHF and AIS operate between 156 MHz and 165 MHz, so any other nearby device emitting in that frequency range may cause EMI. It is important to note that all LED lights are an active electronic circuit, and all electronic circuits radiate elec- tro-magnetic emissions to some degree. To ensure LED lights on a vessel do not interfere with communication devices, there are a few things to consider. Certifications F i r s t a n d f o r e m o s t , always check that the LED product is approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The FCC regulates all electronics sold in the United States as to the allowable frequency ranges and levels of electro- magnetic emissions. For a long time, LED lights were not on the list of active electronic devices that the FCC regulates, but were added in 2015. Therefore, if older LED fixtures are onboard, there is a possibility that they do not meet the current standards. The easiest way to identify p r o d u c t s t h a t a r e F C C approved is by looking for the FCC logo, pictured below, stamped somewhere on the product or packaging. If it is not obviously apparent, check with the manufacturer to verify the FCC approval. Other governing bodies aside from the FCC also have regulations and certify products to a certain standard. Most commonly used in the United States are Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and USCG certifications. Using LED Lights Wisely By Holly Augustine, IMTRA Corporation Each year, thousands of preventable maritime accidents are caused by operator inattention, cited twice as frequently as the next leading factor. The Furuno BR500 Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System (BNWAS) helps to prevent these accidents. Scan this code with your smart phone for a Guided Tour of the BR500. www.FurunoUSA.com