electronic plotting system operator Interview Questions and Answers

0
Electronic Plotting System Operator Interview Questions

  1. What is an Electronic Plotting System (EPS)?

    • Answer: An Electronic Plotting System is a computerized system used in navigation to display and analyze navigational data, including radar, GPS, AIS, and other sensor inputs. It automatically plots the position of the vessel and other objects, providing a real-time picture of the surrounding environment.

  2. Describe your experience with different types of Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS)?

    • Answer: [Candidate should detail their experience with specific ECDIS brands and models, highlighting features used and proficiency levels. Example: "I have extensive experience with Furuno's NavNet TZtouch3 and have utilized its features including route planning, collision avoidance, and ENC data management. I'm also familiar with the basics of Kelvin Hughes ECDIS systems."]

  3. How do you ensure the accuracy of your plotted positions?

    • Answer: Accuracy is ensured through regular calibration of sensors, verifying GPS signals against multiple sources, cross-referencing with other navigation systems (e.g., gyrocompass, magnetic compass), and understanding and accounting for potential sources of error like magnetic deviation and leeway.

  4. Explain the concept of Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs).

    • Answer: ENCs are digital charts that meet international standards (S-57). They provide more detailed and accurate information than paper charts and are specifically formatted for use with ECDIS. They contain bathymetric data, navigational warnings, and other critical information for safe navigation.

  5. How do you interpret and respond to navigational warnings?

    • Answer: I carefully read and understand all navigational warnings received through the ECDIS, NAVTEX, or other means. I assess their relevance to my vessel's position and planned route, and take appropriate action, which may include altering the course, speed, or even delaying departure.

  6. What are the different types of radar used in conjunction with an EPS?

    • Answer: Common radar types include X-band (short range, high resolution), S-band (longer range, lower resolution), and perhaps even weather radar. I understand their respective strengths and limitations.

  7. How do you use AIS (Automatic Identification System) data on the EPS?

    • Answer: AIS provides real-time information about nearby vessels, including their position, course, speed, and name. I use this data to assess potential collision risks, improve situational awareness, and make informed navigational decisions.

  8. Explain the importance of maintaining backups of navigational data.

    • Answer: Maintaining backups is crucial for redundancy and to prevent data loss. In case of system failure, a backup allows for continued operation and ensures the safety of the vessel and crew.

  9. Describe your experience with route planning using an ECDIS.

    • Answer: [Candidate should detail their experience with route planning, including consideration of factors like water depth, tides, currents, restricted areas, and navigational hazards. Example: "I'm proficient in planning routes considering all relevant factors, ensuring the route is safe and efficient, and making adjustments based on real-time information."]

  10. What are the limitations of an ECDIS?

    • Answer: ECDIS relies on accurate data input and functioning sensors. It's susceptible to system failures, power outages, and software glitches. It's also crucial to remember that it's a tool to assist, not replace, good seamanship and judgment.

  11. How do you handle a system malfunction during navigation?

    • Answer: I would immediately switch to backup systems, follow emergency procedures, and revert to traditional navigation methods (paper charts, compass, etc.) until the primary system is restored. I would also inform the captain and other relevant personnel.

  12. Explain the concept of "safe water" and "restricted areas" as displayed on an ENC.

    • Answer: Safe water is an area deemed safe for navigation according to the chart's data. Restricted areas are designated zones where navigation may be limited or prohibited due to various reasons, like military exercises, environmental protection, or underwater hazards.

  13. How do you use the ECDIS's alarm system?

    • Answer: The alarm system alerts me to potential hazards like shallow water, proximity to other vessels, or deviation from the planned route. I understand how to configure and respond appropriately to each alarm type.

  14. What is the difference between a raster chart and a vector chart?

    • Answer: Raster charts are essentially scanned images of paper charts. Vector charts are made of points, lines, and polygons, allowing for flexible scaling and data manipulation. ENCs are vector charts.

  15. How do you update ENC data?

    • Answer: ENCs are updated regularly through official chart service providers. I know how to download and install these updates according to the manufacturer's guidelines and ensure the system uses the most current data.

  16. Describe your understanding of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs).

    • Answer: [Candidate should demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of COLREGs, including rules for right-of-way, navigational lights, sound signals, and actions in restricted visibility.]

  17. How do you maintain situational awareness using the EPS?

    • Answer: By constantly monitoring the ECDIS, radar, and AIS, and correlating the information displayed, I build a complete picture of the vessel's surroundings and potential hazards.

  18. What is the importance of regular maintenance and calibration of the EPS?

    • Answer: Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance, accuracy, and reliability of the system. Calibration maintains the accuracy of sensors and the overall system.

  19. Explain your understanding of dead reckoning and how it relates to EPS.

    • Answer: Dead reckoning estimates position based on course, speed, and elapsed time. While the EPS provides more accurate data, understanding dead reckoning is important for verifying system output and managing system failures.

  20. How do you handle conflicting information from different navigational sources?

    • Answer: I would carefully analyze the conflicting information, cross-reference data from multiple sources, consider the reliability of each source, and report the discrepancy to the captain for a final decision.

  21. What safety procedures do you follow while operating the EPS?

    • Answer: [Candidate should outline safety procedures like regular system checks, backup system awareness, adherence to company safety guidelines, and reporting any malfunctions or concerns.]

  22. How familiar are you with the different display options and settings on the EPS?

    • Answer: [Candidate should detail their knowledge of various display options, such as range rings, bearing lines, vector charts, raster charts, and AIS information overlays.]

  23. Describe your experience with using the ECDIS for voyage planning and reporting.

    • Answer: [Candidate should describe their experience in using the ECDIS to create voyage plans, including waypoints, estimated times of arrival (ETAs), and generating reports.]

  24. How do you ensure the integrity of the ENC data used in the EPS?

    • Answer: By regularly updating the ENC data from authorized sources and verifying the system's ability to correctly process the data.

  25. Explain the concept of a "tidal window" and its importance in route planning.

    • Answer: A tidal window refers to the period of time when water depth is sufficient for safe navigation in a particular area. It is vital for route planning, particularly in shallow waters.

  26. How do you identify and avoid potential grounding hazards using the EPS?

    • Answer: By carefully monitoring depth information on the ENC, checking for warnings of shallow water areas, and ensuring that the vessel's draft is suitable for the planned route.

  27. What are the different types of navigational warnings and how are they displayed on the ECDIS?

    • Answer: [Candidate should describe various warning types like navigational warnings, meteorological warnings, and safety warnings, and how they appear on the ECDIS screen.]

  28. Explain the importance of understanding the limitations of GPS in conjunction with the EPS.

    • Answer: GPS signals can be affected by atmospheric conditions, multipath errors, and intentional or unintentional jamming. Understanding these limitations is crucial to prevent overreliance on GPS data.

  29. How do you use the ECDIS to determine the vessel's position relative to other vessels and hazards?

    • Answer: By using the ECDIS's range and bearing functions, I can accurately determine the position of other vessels and hazards, helping me make informed decisions to prevent collisions.

  30. What is your experience with using different types of sensors integrated with the EPS?

    • Answer: [Candidate should list and describe their experience with various sensors, including GPS, gyrocompass, radar, AIS, and depth sounders.]

  31. How do you perform a pre-departure check of the EPS?

    • Answer: [Candidate should detail a comprehensive pre-departure checklist, covering system functionality, data updates, sensor accuracy, and backup system verification.]

  32. Explain your understanding of the different display modes available on the ECDIS.

    • Answer: [Candidate should describe various display modes, such as North Up, Course Up, and Heading Up, and their uses.]

  33. How do you handle situations where the ECDIS shows conflicting information with other navigation systems?

    • Answer: I would carefully investigate the discrepancy, check the accuracy and reliability of each system, consult with the captain, and take appropriate action based on the most reliable information.

  34. Describe your familiarity with the performance standards for ECDIS.

    • Answer: [Candidate should demonstrate knowledge of the IMO performance standards for ECDIS, including accuracy, reliability, and functionality.]

  35. How do you use the ECDIS to monitor the vessel's speed and course over ground?

    • Answer: The ECDIS displays the vessel's speed and course over ground using data from GPS and other sensors. I monitor these parameters to ensure the vessel is following the planned route and speed.

  36. What are some common sources of error in electronic navigation systems?

    • Answer: Common errors include GPS signal degradation, sensor malfunction, software glitches, incorrect data entry, and human error in interpreting the displayed information.

  37. How do you handle emergency situations while operating the EPS?

    • Answer: In an emergency, I would immediately switch to backup systems, follow emergency procedures, and inform the captain and other relevant personnel. I would prioritize safe navigation and communication.

  38. What is your experience with using the ECDIS for calculating ETA and distances?

    • Answer: I have experience using the ECDIS to accurately calculate ETAs based on speed, course, and planned route. I can also calculate distances between waypoints or other points of interest using the system's built-in functions.

  39. Describe your experience with performing regular checks and maintenance on the EPS.

    • Answer: [Candidate should outline their routine checks and maintenance procedures, including checking sensor readings, verifying data integrity, and conducting functional tests.]

  40. How do you contribute to a safe and efficient bridge team environment?

    • Answer: I actively participate in bridge team discussions, clearly communicate information, follow established procedures, and contribute to a professional and collaborative atmosphere.

  41. What are your strengths as an electronic plotting system operator?

    • Answer: [Candidate should list their strengths, such as attention to detail, problem-solving skills, technical proficiency, teamwork, and ability to handle stress under pressure.]

  42. What are your weaknesses as an electronic plotting system operator?

    • Answer: [Candidate should honestly identify a weakness and explain steps they are taking to improve in that area. Example: "I am still working on improving my speed in responding to multiple alarms simultaneously, and I am participating in simulation exercises to improve my efficiency."]

  43. Why are you interested in this position?

    • Answer: [Candidate should explain their interest in the role, highlighting relevant skills and experience, and their desire to contribute to the company's success.]

  44. What are your salary expectations?

    • Answer: [Candidate should provide a realistic salary range based on their experience and research of industry standards.]

Thank you for reading our blog post on 'electronic plotting system operator Interview Questions and Answers'.We hope you found it informative and useful.Stay tuned for more insightful content!