Tuition by LightMaster

Does LightMaster offer personal tuition.

LightMaster Software produces software for training, either in the classroom at sea schools and colleges, or for home use.

LightMaster Nautical Training is recognised by the RYA for teaching VHF SRC and Radar courses. The courses are held in Croydon, Surrey, with excellent rail links to central London and the south coast, plus road access from south London and from Junctions 6 or 7 of the M25.

What range of products does LightMaster offer?

Current products teach Radar, VHF Radio, GPS Navigation and ColRegs Vessel Lights & Buoys. Click the PRODUCTS menu button to explore the range.

There are Tutor programs which provide step-by-step, interactive guides to correct use of each of these pieces of equipment, plus Simulator programs which provide unlimited practice for the radar and radio equipment.

Additionally, there are two TutorPlus CDs, one of which combines the Tutor and Simulator for Radar and the other combines the Tutor and Simulator for VHF DSC Radio.

How do I obtain a VHF Radio licence?

There are two main routes to obtain the VHF Short Range Certificate, required to operate a marine VHF radio. Most candidates attend a one-day course at one of many RYA-recognised schools around the country. Alternatively, you can apply to any of these schools for a direct exam. All the schools offering VHF courses are authorised to offer exams, but not all of them choose to do so.

In either case, your ideal preparation for the course or exam will include experience with the LightMaster VHF DSC software. The most popular package is the VHF DSC TutorPlus, which combines the step-by-step tuition of the Tutor, with unlimited practice on the Simulator. The Simulator is also ideal to keep you up to speed after you gain the certificate.

Does LightMaster offer GMDSS training?

The Global Maritime Distress and Safety System includes VHF Radio. The VHF Tutor and Simulator are the ideal preparation for the VHF Short Range Certificate (SRC), which is required for operation of VHF DSC radios under GMDSS.

LightMaster Nautical Training can offer full VHF SRC courses. See the first item in this section for more details.

Why would I need a Simulator for practice, if I have a real radio?

The Simulator software allows safe practice of all functions of the radio, with no risk of false alerts. In particular, the most important operations which may be required in emergency are Urgency and Distress working. You should know how to use these procedures instinctively. Unfortunately, these vital operations must not be practised on real equipment, as the false alerts are illegal and could cause waste of resouces by emergency services, or even loss of life. Practice in total safety on the Simulator, and be ready in case you ever need these operations.