What is the advantage of using digital selective calling (DSC)?

Using digital selective calling (DSC) provides a significant advantage in maritime communication, particularly in emergency situations, because it sends a distress signal automatically to multiple vessels or shore stations. This feature enhances maritime safety by enabling quicker and more efficient communication in critical scenarios. When a distress signal is initiated through DSC, it alerts not just one vessel but rather a network of nearby vessels and rescue services, ensuring that help can be mobilized quickly.

This capability is crucial, especially in emergencies where time is of the essence. The automatic nature of DSC means that the distress alert is transmitted without requiring the sender to manually communicate the situation, reducing the possibility of human error and miscommunication under pressure.

The other options, while they highlight some features of maritime communication systems, do not capture the critical advantage that enhances safety and operational effectiveness as the correct choice does.