The United States Coast Guard recently issued a bulletin pointing out that some LED products may cause interference with reception of your VHF radio and, if fitted, the automatic identification system (AIS).
The bulletin can be found here.
All current model Rivieras are fitted as standard with the highest quality LED systems that are designed specifically for the marine environment and will not result in any interference issues.
All active electronic devices, including LED products, create some degree of electro-magnetic interference (EMI). An issue arises only when interference occurs in the frequency range between 156 MHz and 165 MHz, used by marine VHF and AIS systems. This can potentially compromise communication, posing a risk.
Many brands of LED lights are not designed specifically for the marine environment.
LED replacement bulbs for navigation lights, for example, may not have sufficient light output in order to meet the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS) and would therefore not be compliant.
For this reason, international regulatory authorities have created specific maritime navigation and radio communications equipment standards for LED lighting used on boats. Many manufacturers of LED navigation lights test the light output of every light before printing serial numbers and packaging, ensuring the highest quality.
If your Riviera was factory fitted with LED fittings you can rest assured that these systems are compliant with marine EMI. However, if the electronic or electrical system on your motor yacht has been updated to include LEDs, you will need to have these checked. Your Riviera Dealer or the Genuine Parts team at the factory can assist you in the supply of compliant LED bulbs. A telltale sign of EMI affecting the onboard systems can be interference in your saloon or flybridge stereo.
The benefits of high quality marine-specific LEDs are that they are designed for the harsh environment, they offer a long warranty period, brighter light, longer product life and a considerable saving in power usage.
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