Wireless Telegraph System
The Titanic had two powerful 1500-watt spark-gap wireless telegraphs for passenger communication and ship operations, with a range of up to 1,000 miles.
Interference Issues
The signals from the Titanic’s more powerful wireless system caused interference with other ships’ wireless systems, leading some nearby ships to turn off their wireless receivers.
Missed Distress Signals
When the Titanic sent distress signals, nearby ships with their wireless systems turned off did not receive them. Ships that did receive the signals were too far away to assist in time.
The Californian Incident
The SS Californian, which was close to the Titanic, had its wireless system turned off after a rebuke from the Titanic’s senior wireless operator. This prevented the Californian from hearing the distress signals.
Aftermath and Regulations
The disaster led to the establishment of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), which included regulations on lifeboats, wireless power, frequency allocation, and 24-hour manning of wireless equipment.
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Citation:
Daniel D. Hoolihan (2012) The Titanic and Radio Frequency Interference, IEEE Electromagnetic Compatibility Magazine, Vol. 1, No. 2
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