Cobra Electronics MRF80 MARINE RADIO User Manual

Cobra Electronics Corporation MARINE RADIO

Contents

USERS MANUAL 1

A1 EnglishOur Thanks to you andCustomer AssistanceIntroductionVHF MARINE RADIOMR F80BPrinted in China Part No. 480-345POwner’s ManualNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Thank you for purchasing a CobraMarine®VHF radio. Properly used, this Cobra®product will give you many years of reliable service.How Your CobraMarine VHF Radio WorksThis radio is a VHF transceiver for fixed mounting on your boat. It gives you 2-wayvessel-to-vessel and vessel-to-shore station communications, primarily for safetyand secondarily for navigation and operational purposes. With it, you can call forhelp, get information from other boaters, talk to lock or bridge tenders and makeradiotelephone calls to anywhere in the world through a marine operator.Besides 2-way communications, in the U.S.A., the radio can provide quick access to receive all NOAA (National Oceanographic and AtmosphericAdministration), including two Canadian weather channels for alerting you toweather emergencies with a tone on a weather channel you can select for your area.Customer AssistanceShould you encounter any problems with this product, or not understand its many features, please refer to this owner’s manual. If you require furtherassistance after reading this manual, Cobra Electronics offers the following customer assistance services:For Assistance in the U.S.A. Automated Help Desk English only.24 hours a day, seven (7) days a week 773-889-3087 (phone).Customer Assistance Operators English and Spanish.8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central Time Mon. through Fri. (except holidays) 773-889-3087 (phone).Questions English and Spanish.Faxes can be received at 773-622-2269 (fax).Technical Assistance English only.www.cobra.com (online: Frequently Asked Questions).English and Spanish. productinfo@cobra.com (e-mail).For Assistance Outside the U.S.A.Contact Your Local DealerCustomer Assistance©2007 Cobra Electronics Corporation™6500 West Cortland StreetChicago, Illinois 60707 USAwww.cobra.comF80 Cover.qxp:QXP-1058736909.qxp 11/3/06 3:19 PM Page A1
A3 EnglishProduct FeaturesIntroductionA2 EnglishTransceiver Controls,Indicators and ConnectionsIntroductionSquelchKnobPower VolumeKnobLocalModeButtonBacklitLCDScreenHI/LOPowerButtonRewindButtonSpeakerChannel KnobTri-WatchButtonInstantChannel 16/9ButtonPublicAddress/EscapeChannelPreset(Function)ButtonsMemory Scan/Memory ClearButtonCall/SetupButtonDSC DistressButton (BehindRed SpringLoaded Cover)Weather/EnterButtonPowerConnectionAntennaSocketDual Power HI/LOSelectable to 1 or 25 watts output powerfor near or distant calling.USA/International/Canada ChannelsAllows operation on any of the three (3)different channel maps established for these areas.All NOAA Weather ChannelsInstant access to all of the National Weather Channels, 24 hours a day.Emergency Weather Alert with SAMECan alert you with an audible tone and visual alarm if threatening weather is nearby. The SAME alertsprovide you with additional alerts forspecific local areas.Instant Channel 16/9Instant access to the priority Channel 16 and calling Channel 9.Digital Selective Calling (DSC)Allows sending a distress message at the touch of a button as well as specific station-to-station calls.Cobra Exclusive Rewind-Say-Again™Digital Voice RecorderA dedicated button allows user to replayup to the last 20 seconds of audio. Pressthe dedicated rewind button and CobraVHF will replay the last 20 seconds of the audio from your VHF.PA (Public Address)Allows operator instant access to publicaddress system by pressing button.Memory ScanLets you scan through all selectedmemory channels to find conversationsin progress.Tri-WatchLets you monitor three (3) channels at once — Channel 16, Channel 9 andone (1) user selectable channel.Noise Canceling MicrophoneBlocks background noise to let your voice be heard at the receiving station.Controls on the MicrophoneHandy control buttons on themicrophone/speaker let you operate one-handed at a distance from the radio.Illuminated ButtonsHelps you quickly find the buttons you need in low light conditions.Digital Selective Calling (DSC Class-D)Allows the ability to maintain a listeningwatch on VHF Channel 16 whilesimultaneously monitoring Channel 70for DSC calls. Allows sending a distressmessage at the touch of a button as wellas specific station-to-station calls. Radioutilizes two (2) built-in encoders(receivers).Mounting Kits (Included)Radio can be mounted on, under or inalmost any flat surface using one of the included brackets.Product Features •NMEA andAuxiliary I/OConnectorF80 Cover.qxp:QXP-1058736909.qxp 11/3/06 3:19 PM Page A2
WaterproofSubmersible to 3.28 ft (1 m) of waterfor 30 minutes — meets JIS7 Standards.Local Mode (Range X-Tend)A dedicated button that allows user tolower unnecessary noise interferencefrom random RF noise in highlypopulated areas.Distress Call ButtonAllows sending a distress message at thetouch of a button as well as specificstation-to-station calls.NMEA Port for GPS, Chartplotter andDSC InterfacingThe NMEA “IN” input in this radio willreceive GPS position information from allGPS devices (e.g., Chartplotters, GPSsensors) sending out their positioninformation using the standard NMEA0183 protocol. This position informationfrom the GPS is then sent by the MR F80when sending out DSC emergencytransmissions. This unit also has anNMEA “OUT” output. This allows theradio to send out position informationreceived from other VHF radio units. Thisenables position polling and otheradvanced integration.A4 EnglishMicrophone/Speaker andProduct Features (continued)IntroductionUpButtonMicrophoneCall/SetupEnter ButtonDownButtonPush toTalk(PTT)ButtonFunction(F1/F2)Button InstantChannel 16/9 ButtonUp/Down Buttons Can be used instead of those on the transceiver.Instant Channel 16/9 Button Can be used instead of the one on the transceiver.Function ButtonAllows the user to “toggle”between selected workingchannel and favorite “Pre-Set” channels to access your most frequently usedchannels directly from themicrophone.Microphone/Speaker with Auxiliary Controls •Product Features •Backlit LCD (Liquid CrystalDisplay) ScreenIntroductionWeatherAlertIcon Call LogIconLOCAL ONRadioSensitivityIcon ActiveChannelNumberRadio Statusand DataDisplay FieldsBacklit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen •ExtendedChannel NumberAlphaDesignatorsSAME Alert IconsA5 EnglishF80 Cover.qxp:QXP-1058736909.qxp 11/3/06 3:19 PM Page A3
IntroductionNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Table Of Contents1IntroductionOur Thanks to You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1Transceiver Controls, Indicators and Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2Product Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3Microphone/Speaker with Auxiliary Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A4Backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A5Important Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Recommendations for Marine Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4VHF Marine Radio Protocols FCC Licensing Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5VHF Marine Radio Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Voice Calling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Digital Selective Calling (DSC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Radiotelephone Calls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Emergency Messages and Marine Distress Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Marine Distress Procedure – DSC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13VHF Marine Channel Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14NOAA Weather Channels and Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24World City Time Zones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Installation and Start-UpIncluded in this Package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Mounting and Powering the Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27Antenna Requirements and Attachment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30External Devices and Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32Operating Your RadioGetting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Set-Up Mode Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44Voice Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46NOAA All Hazards/Weather Radio and Alert, w/SAME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49Advanced Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52Digital Select Calling (DSC) SetUp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Digital Select Calling (DSC) Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77Warranty and TrademarkLimited 3-Year Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78Trademark Acknowledgement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78Customer Service Product Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79Flush Mount Template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80F80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:13 PM Page 1
2EnglishImportant Safety InformationIntroductionImportant Safety Information •Before installing and using your CobraMarine VHF radio, please read these general precautions and warnings.Warning and Notice StatementsTo make the most of this radio, it must be installed and used properly. Please read the installation and operating instructions carefully before installing and using the radio. Special attention must be paid to the WARNINGand NOTICE statements in this manual.WARNING Statements identify conditions that could result in personal injury or loss of life.NOTICE Statements identify conditions that could cause damage to the radio or other equipment.Safety Training InformationThis CobraMarine®radio is designed for, and classified as, “Occupational Use Only.” The radio must only be used in the course of employment by individuals aware ofboth the hazards and the ways to minimize those hazards. This radio is NOTintended for use in an uncontrolled environment by the “General Population.”This radio has been tested and complies with the FCC RF exposure limits for“Occupational Use Only.” This CobraMarine VHF radio also complies with thefollowing guidelines and standards regarding RF energy and electromagnetic energy levels as well as evaluation of those levels for human exposure:■ FCC OET Bulletin 65 Edition 97-01 Supplement C, Evaluating Compliance with FCC Guidelines for Human Exposure to Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Fields.■ American National Standards Institute (C95.1-1992), IEEE Standard for Safety Levels with Respect to Human Exposure to Radio FrequencyElectromagnetic Fields, 3 kHz to 300 GHz.■ American National Standards Institute (C95.3-1992), IEEE Recommended Practice for the Measurement of Potentially Hazardous Electromagnetic Fields — RF and Microwave.F80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:13 PM Page 2
IntroductionNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Important Safety Information3The following WARNINGS and NOTICE information will make you aware of RFexposure hazards and how to assure you operate the radio within the FCC RFexposure limits established for the radio.WARNINGSYour radio generates electromagnetic RF (radio frequency) energy when it is transmitting. To ensure that you and those around you are not exposed to excessive amounts of that energy, DO NOT touch the antenna whentransmitting and KEEP yourself and all others on your vessel the requireddistance away from the antenna while transmitting. See page 30 in theantenna requirements section for further information.DO NOT operate the radio without a proper antenna or equivalent dummy load attached. Doing so may expose you to excessive RF energy and will damage the radio.DO NOT transmit more than 50% of the time the radio is in use — 50% duty cycle. The radio is transmitting when the Talk button is pressed and the transmit information shows on the LCD screen.ALWAYS use only Cobra authorized accessories.DO NOT operate the radio in an explosive atmosphere, near blasting sites, or in any area where signs are posted prohibiting radio transmissions.NEVER connect the transceiver to AC power. It can be a fire hazard, maycause an electric shock and may damage the transceiver.NEVER mount the transceiver or microphone/speaker where they mightinterfere with operation of your vessel or cause injury.DO NOT allow children or anyone unfamiliar with proper procedures tooperate the radio without supervision.Failure to observe any of these warnings may cause you to exceed FCC RF exposure limits or create other dangerous conditions.NOTEThroughout this manual, the term “Transceiver” will be used to identify themain unit containing the LCD screen and controls. The term “Radio” will beused to identify the entire equipment including transceiver, microphone,antenna and any attached external speakers.F80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:13 PM Page 3
4EnglishRecommendations for Marine CommunicationNOTICEAVOID using or storing the radio at temperatures below -4°F (-20°C) orabove 140°F (60°C).NEVER connect the transceiver to DC power greater than 16 volts or to any DC source with reversed polarity. Doing so will damage the transceiver.DO NOT cut the power cables attached to the transceiver. Improperreconnection with reversed polarity will damage the transceiver.POSITION your radio, external speakers and cables at least 3 ft (0,9 m) away fromyour vessel’s magnetic navigation compass. CHECK your compass before andafter installation to be sure that it has not introduced any deviation.DO NOT attempt to service any internal parts yourself. Have any necessary service performed by a qualified technician.DO NOT drop the transceiver or microphone/speaker. Doing so may crack the case or damage a waterproof seal. Once these items have been dropped, the original waterproofing cannot be guaranteed.DO NOT use chemicals or solvents such as mineral spirits and alcohol to clean your radio. They may damage the case surfaces.Changes or modifications to your radio MAY VOID its compliance with FCC (FederalCommunication Commission) rules and make it illegal to use.Recommendations for Marine Communication •The frequencies your radio uses are set aside to enhance safety afloat and for vessel navigation and operational messages over a range suitable for near-shorevoyages. If the 25 watt maximum output of your radio is not sufficient for thedistances you travel from the coast, consider installing a more powerful radio suchas HF single-side band or satellite radio for your vessel.The U.S. Coast Guard does not endorse cellular telephones as substitutes for marine radios. They generally cannot communicate with rescue vessels and, if you make a distress call on a cellular telephone, only the party you call will be able to hear you. Additionally, cellular telephones may have limited coverage over water and can be hard to locate. If you do not know where you are, the Coast Guard will have difficulty finding you if you are using a cellular telephone.However, cellular telephones can have a place onboard where cellular coverage is available — to allow social conversations and keep the marine frequenciesuncluttered and available for their intended use.IntroductionF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:14 PM Page 4
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®FCC Licensing Information5FCC Licensing Information •CobraMarine VHF radios comply with the FCC (Federal Communication Commission)requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Service.This CobraMarine radio incorporates a VHF FM transceiver designed for use in the frequency range of 156.025 to 163.275 MHz. It requires 13.8 volts DC and has a switchable RF output power of one (1) or 25 watts.The radio is capable of Class-D DSC (Digital Selective Calling) operation.The radio operates on all currently allocated marine channels and is switchable foruse according to U.S.A., International, or Canadian regulations. It features instantaccess to emergency Channel 16 and calling Channel 9 as well as NOAA (NationalOceanic and Atmospheric Administration) All Hazards Radio with Alert that can beaccessed by pressing one key.Station LicenseAn FCC ship station license is no longer required for any vessel traveling in U.S.A.waters which uses a VHF marine radio, RADAR, or EPIRB (Emergency PositionIndicating Radio Beacon), and which is not required to carry radio equipment.However, any vessel required to carry a marine radio on an international voyage,carrying a HF single side band radiotelephone, or carrying a marine satellite terminal must obtain a station license.FCC license forms and applications for ship and land stations can be downloadedthrough the Internet at www.fcc.gov/formpage.html. Forms can also be obtained bycalling the FCC at 888-225-5322.International Station LicenseIf your vessel will be entering the sovereign waters of a country other than theU.S.A. or Canada, you should contact that country’s communications regulatoryauthority for licensing information.Radio Call SignCurrently, the FCC does not require recreational boaters to have a license. The UnitedStates Coast Guard recommends that the boat’s registration number and state of registry(e.g., IL 1234 AB) be used as a call sign and be clearly visible on the vessel.Canadian Ship Station LicenseYou need a Radio Operator’s Certificate if your vessel is operated in Canadian waters.Radio Operator training and certification is available from the Canadian PowerSquadron. Visit their website (http://www.cps-ecp.ca/english/newradiocard.html),contact the nearest field office or write: Industry of Canada, Radio RegulatoryBranch, Attn: DOSP, 300 Slater Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0C8.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:14 PM Page 5
6EnglishVHF Marine RadioProceduresUser Responsibility and Operating LocationsAll users are responsible for observing domestic and foreign governmentregulations and are subject to severe penalties for violations. The VHF frequencieson your radio are reserved for marine use and require a special license to operatefrom land, including when your boat is on its trailer.NOTEThis device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two (2) conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.FCC Warnings: Replacement or substitution of transistors, regular diodes or other parts of a unique nature, with parts other than those recommended by Cobra may cause a violation of the technical regulations of part 80 of the FCC Rules, or violation of type acceptance requirements of part 2 of the rules.VHF Marine Radio Procedures •Maintain Your Watch Whenever your boat is underway, the radio must be turned On and be tuned to Channel 16, except when being used for messages.PowerTry 1 watt first if the station being called is within a few miles. Try a second callafter waiting two (2) minutes. If there is no answer, switch to a higher power. Thiswill conserve your battery and minimize interference to other users by avoidingrepeated calls.Calling Coast Stations Call a coast station on its assigned channel. You may use Channel 16 when you do not know the assigned channel.Calling Other Vessels Call other vessels on Channel 16 or on Channel 9. (Channel 9 is preferred for recreational vessel use.) You may also call on ship-to-ship channels when you know that the vessel is listening on a ship-to-ship channel.Initial Calling on Channel 16 or 9The use of Channel 16 is permitted for making initial contact (hailing) with anothervessel. The limits on calling must be followed. Be reminded Channel 16’s mostimportant function is for Emergency Messages. If for some reason, Channel 16 iscongested, the use of Channel 9, especially in U.S. waters, may be used as the initialcontact (hailing) channel for non-emergency communication.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:14 PM Page 6
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Voice Calling7Limits on CallingYou must not call the same station for more than 30 seconds at a time. If you do not get a reply, wait at least two (2) minutes before calling again. After three (3) calling periods, wait at least 15 minutes before calling again.Change ChannelsAfter contacting another station on a calling channel, change immediately to a channel which is available for the type of message you want to send.Station IdentificationIdentify, in English, your station by your FCC call sign, vessel name and the stateregistration number, at both the beginning and at the end of the message.Prohibited CommunicationsYou MUST NOT transmit:■ False distress or emergency messages.■ Messages containing obscene, indecent or profane language.■ General calls, signals or messages (messages not addressed to a particularstation) on Channel 16, except in an emergency or if you are testing your radio.■ When you are on land.Voice Calling •To Call Another Vessel or Shore Installation (e.g. Lock or Bridge Tender):■ Make sure your radio is On.■ Select Channel 16 and listen to make sure it is not being used. NOTEChannel 9 may be used by recreational vessels for general-purpose calling. This frequency should be used whenever possible to relieve congestion on Channel 16.■ When the channel is quiet, press the Talk button and call the vessel you wish to call. (Hold the microphone/speaker a few inches from your face and speakdirectly into it in a normal tone of voice — clearly and distinctly.) Say “[name of station being called] THIS IS [your vessel’s name or call sign].”■ Once contact is made on the calling channel, you must switch to a properworking channel. See the channel listing on page 14 through 15.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:14 PM Page 7
8EnglishDigital Selective Calling (DSC)The vessel Corsair calling the vessel Vagabond:Corsair: “Vagabond, this is Corsair (station license number call sign).”Vagabond: “Corsair, this is Vagabond. Over.”Corsair: “Vagabond go to working Channel 68. Over.”Both parties switch over to the agreed upon working channel....Corsair: “Vagabond I need to talk to you about... Over.”Vagabond: “Corsair in answer to your question about... Over.”Corsair: “Vagabond, thanks for the information about... (call sign and out).”After each transmission, say “OVER” and release the microphone Push to Talk (PTT)button. This confirms that the transmission has ended. When all communication withthe other vessel is totally completed, end the message by stating your call sign and theword “OUT.” Remember, it is not necessary to state your call sign with eachtransmission, only at the beginning and end of the message.NOTE For best sound quality at the shore station or other vessel receiving your call,hold the microphone/speaker at least 2 in. (51 mm) from your mouth andslightly off to one (1) side. Speak in a normal tone of voice.Digital Selective Calling (DSC) •Digital selective calling (DSC) is a semi-automated system for establishing a radio call. It has been designed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as an international standard for VHF, MF and HF calls and is part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). DSC will eventually replace aural (listening) watches on distress frequencies and will be used to announce routine and urgent maritime safety informationbroadcasts. Until DSC is fully implemented, it is still necessary to maintain alistening watch on Channel 16.The DSC system allows mariners to instantly send a distress call with GPS position coordinates (requires a GPS receiver to be connected to the radio) to the Coast Guard and other vessels within range of the transmission. DSC also allows mariners to initiate and receive distress, urgent, safety, routine, position request, position send and group calls between vessels equipped with DSC capable radios.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsFor ExampleF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:14 PM Page 8
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI)9VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsMaritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) •An MMSI is a nine (9) digit number used on a marine radio capable of using digitalselective calling (DSC). It is used to selectively call other vessels or shore stationsand is similar to a telephone number.For your CobraMarine radio to operate in the DSC mode, you must enter yourMaritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number. See page 62 for instructions on how to enter your number.MMSI Numbers are available in the U.S.A. from these Sources:■ Boat U.S.: 800-563-1536 – www.boatus.com/mmsi■ Maritel: 888-Maritel (888-627-4835)■ Sea Tow International: 631-765-3660 – www.seatow.comIn Canada, Contact:Industry Canada Spectrum Management Office (only available on the Internet):http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/epic/internet/insmt-gst.nsf/vwGeneratedInterE/sf01742e.htmlTo Obtain an MMSI Number Outside the U.S.A.:Users can obtain an MMSI from their country’s telecommunications authority or ship registry. This may involve amending or obtaining a ship station license.WARNING This equipment is designed to generate a digital maritime distress and safety signal to facilitate search and rescue. To be effective as a safety device, this equipment must be used only within communication range of a shore-based VHF marine channel to distress and safety watch system. The range of the signal may vary, but under normal conditions should beapproximately 20 nautical miles.F80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:14 PM Page 9
10 EnglishRadiotelephone CallsRadiotelephone Calls •Boaters may make and receive radiotelephone calls to and from any number on the telephone network by using the services of public coast stations. Calls can be made — for a fee — between your radio and telephones on land, sea and in the air.See pages 14 through 23 for the public correspondence (marine operator) channels.If you plan to use these services, consider registering with the operator of the public coast station that you plan to work through. Those services can provide you with detailed information and procedures to follow.NOTICEYou may disclose privileged information during a radiotelephone call. Keep in mind that your transmission is NOT private, as it is on a regulartelephone. Both sides of the conversation are being broadcast and can beheard by anyone who has a radio and tunes to the channel you are using.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:14 PM Page 10
MAYDAYPANSECURITENothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Emergency Messages and Distress Procedure11Emergency Messages and Distress Procedure •The ability to summon assistance in an emergency is the primary reason to have a VHF marine radio. The marine environment can be unforgiving, and what may initially be a minor problem can rapidly develop into a situation beyond your control.The Coast Guard monitors Channel 16, responds to all distress calls, andcoordinates all search and rescue efforts. Depending on the availability of other capable vessels or commercial assistance operators in your vicinity, Coast Guard or Coast Guard Auxiliary craft may be dispatched.In any event, communicate with the Coast Guard as soon as you experiencedifficulties and before your situation becomes an emergency. Use the emergencymessage procedures only after your situation has become grave or you are facedwith a sudden danger threatening life or property and requiring immediate help. Use Channel 16 to communicate your emergency message. Make sure you transmiton high power. If you are merely out of gas, do not send an emergency message.Drop your anchor and call a friend or marina to bring the fuel you need or to giveyou a tow.Marine Emergency SignalsThe three (3) spoken international emergency signals are:The distress signal MAYDAY is used to indicate that a station is threatened by grave and imminent danger and requests immediate assistance.The urgency signal PAN is used when the safety of the vessel or person is in jeopardy. (This signal is properly pronounced pahn.)The safety signal SECURITE is used for messages about the safety of navigation orimportant weather warnings. (This signal is properly pronounced see-cure-ee-tay.)When using an international emergency signal, the appropriate signal is to be spoken three (3) times prior to the message.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:15 PM Page 11
12 EnglishEmergency Messages and Distress ProcedureIf You Hear a Distress CallYou must give any message beginning with one (1) of these signals priority over any other messages. ALL stations MUST remain silent on Channel 16 for the duration of the emergency unless the message relates directly to the emergency.If you hear a distress message from a vessel, stand by your radio. If it is not answered, YOU should answer. If the distressed vessel is not nearby, wait a short time for others who may be closer to acknowledge. Even if you cannot render direct assistance, you may be in a position to relay the message.Marine Distress ProcedureSpeak slowly — clearly — calmly.1. Make sure your radio is On.2. Select Channel 16.3. Press Talk button and say: “MAYDAY — MAYDAY — MAYDAY.” (Or “PAN — PAN — PAN,” or “SECURITE — SECURITE — SECURITE.”)4. Say: “THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign],” repeated three (3) times.5. Say: “MAYDAY (or “PAN” or “SECURITE”) [your vessel name or call sign].6. Tell where you are: (what navigational aids or landmarks are nearby).7. State the nature of your distress.8. State the kind of assistance needed.9. Give number of persons aboard and conditions of any injured.10. Estimate present seaworthiness of your vessel.11. Briefly describe your vessel (length, type, color, hull).12. Say: “I WILL BE LISTENING ON CHANNEL 16.”13. End message by saying: “THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign] OVER.”14. Release Talk button and listen. Someone should answer. If not, repeat the call, beginning at step 3 above.Keep the radio nearby. Even after your message has been received, the Coast Guardcan find you more quickly if you can transmit a signal for a rescue boat to hone in on.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:15 PM Page 12
For ExampleNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Emergency Messages and Distress Procedure13“Mayday — Mayday — Mayday”“This is Corsair — Corsair — Corsair” [or “IL 1234 AB”], repeated three (3) times.“Mayday Corsair (or IL 1234 AB)”“Navy Pier bears 220 degrees magnetic — distance 5 miles”“Struck submerged object and flooding — need pump and tow”“Four adults, three children aboard — no one injured”“Estimate we will remain afloat one-half hour”“Corsair (or IL 1234 AB) is 26 ft sloop with blue hull and tan deck house”“I will be listening on Channel 16”“This is Corsair (or IL 1234 AB)”“Over”It is a good idea to write out a script of the message form and post it where you and others on your vessel can see it when an emergency message needs to be sent.Marine Distress Procedure – DSC •Digital Selective Calling (DSC) is a semi-automated system that will allow you topress the Distress button from any routine to make a distress call. When thedistress button is pressed, all other channels go to Standby mode and allow thedigitally encoded “pre-programmed” message to take precedence. Importantinformation such as your MMSI number, position and name will be transmitted onChannel 16. The distress alarm will sound for two (2) minutes or until the alarm iscleared. The DSC system allows you to choose a “pre-programmed” distress call such as:“Man Overboard, Sinking, Collision.” There are many pre-programmed choices tochoose from. If a GPS is connected to your radio, your coordinates will also be sentto the Coast Guard as well as to other vessels that are within range of thetransmission. DSC calling also allows the user to initiate and receive distress,urgent, safety, routine, position request, position send and group calls betweenvessels equipped with DSC capable radios.WARNING This radio will generate a digital maritime distress and safety signal to helpfacilitate search and rescue. This radio must be used only withincommunication range of a shore based VHF station with a distress and safetywatch system. The range of the signal may vary, however, under normalconditions should be approximately 20 nautical miles.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:15 PM Page 13
14 EnglishVHF Marine Channel AssignmentsVHF Marine Channel Assignments •Three (3) sets of VHF channels have been established for marine use in the U.S.A.,Canada and the rest of the world (International). Most of the channels are the samefor all three (3) maps, but there are definite differences (see table on pages 16-23).Your radio has all three (3) maps built into it and will operate correctly in whicheverarea you choose. The following is a brief outline of the channel assignments in the U.S.A. Channel Map.Distress, Safety and CallingChannel 16Getting the attention of another station (calling) or in emergencies (distress and safety).Calling Channel 9General purpose (non-emergency) calling by non-commercial vessels. Recreational boaters are urged to use this channel to reduce congestion on Channel 16.Intership SafetyChannel 6Ship-to-ship safety messages and for search and rescue messages to Coast Guard ships and aircraft.Coast Guard Liaison (U.S and Canadian)Channel 22ATo talk to the Coast Guard (non-emergency) after making contact on Channel 16.Non-CommercialChannels 68*, 69, 71, 72, 78A, 79A*, 80A*Working channels for small vessels. Messages must be about needs of the vessel, such as fishing reports, berthing and rendezvous. Use Channel 72 only for ship-to-ship messages.CommercialChannels 1A, 7A, 8, 9, 10, 11, 18A, 19A, 63A, 67, 72, 79A, 80A, 88A*Working channels for working ships only. Messages must be about business orneeds of the ship. Use Channels 8, 67, 72 and 88A only for ship-to-ship messages.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:15 PM Page 14
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®VHF Marine Channel Assignments15Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)Channels 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 60, 61, 84, 84A, 85, 85A, 86, 86A, 87, 87A, 88*For calls to marine operators at public coast stations. You can make and receivetelephone calls through these stations.Port OperationsChannels 1A*, 5A*, 12*, 14*, 18, 19, 20A, 21, 22, 63A*, 65A, 66A, 73, 74, 75, 76,77*, 79, 80, 81, 82Used for directing the movement of ships in or near ports, locks or waterways.Messages must be about operational handling, movement and safety of ships. NavigationalChannels 13, 67Channels are available to all vessels. Messages must be about navigation, includingpassing or meeting other vessels. These are also the main working channels formost locks and drawbridges. You must keep your messages short and power outputat no more than 1 watt.Maritime ControlChannel 17For talking to vessels and coast stations operated by state or local governments.Messages must be about regulation and control, boating activities or assistance.Digital Selective CallingChannel 70This channel is set aside for distress, safety and general calling using only digitalselective calling techniques. Voice communication is prohibited; your radio cannottransmit voice messages on this channel.WeatherChannels Wx 1 Thru 9Receive-only channels for NOAA and Canadian weather broadcasts. You cannottransmit on these channels.NOTE*These channels are restricted to the listed uses in certain parts of the country or for certain types of users only. Consult FCC rules or a knowledgeable radio operator before using them.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:15 PM Page 15
16 EnglishVHF Marine Channel AssignmentsVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsChannel Channel Map Frequency PowerNumber USA Int’l Canada Transmit Receive Limits01 ••156.050 160.65001A •156.050 156.05002 ••156.100 160.70003 ••156.150 160.75003A •156.150 156.15004 •156.200 160.80004A •156.200 156.20005 •156.250 160.85005A ••156.250 156.25006 •••156.300 156.30007 •156.350 160.95007A ••156.350 156.35008 •••156.400 156.40009 •••156.450 156.45010 •••156.500 156.50011 •••156.550 156.55012 •••156.600 156.60013 •••156.650 156.650 1 watt USA and CAN14 •••156.700 156.70015 •Rx Only 156.75015 ••156.750 156.750 1 watt CAN and INT16 •••156.800 156.80017 •••156.850 156.850 1 watt USA and CANF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:15 PM Page 16
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®VHF Marine Channel Assignments17VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsChannel Use01 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)01A Port Operations and Commercial, VTS in selected areas02 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)03 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)03A Government Only (Unauthorized)04 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement04A West Coast (Coast Guard Only); East Coast (Commercial Fishing) 05 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement05A Port Operations, VTS in selected areas06 Intership Safety07 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement07A Commercial08 Commercial (Intership Only)09 Boater Calling Channel, Non-Commercial (Recreational)10 Commercial11 Commercial, VTS in selected areas12 Port Operations, VTS in selected areas13 Intership Navigation Safety (Bridge-to-Bridge). In U.S. waters, large vessels maintain a listening watch on this channel.14 Port Operations, VTS in selected areas15 Environmental (Receive Only). Used by class C EPIRB’s.15 Canada (EPIRB Buoys Only); International (On-Board Communication)16 International Distress, Safety and Calling 17 State Controlled (U.S.A. Only)F80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:15 PM Page 17
18 EnglishVHF Marine Channel AssignmentsVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsChannel Channel Map Frequency PowerNumber USA Int’l Canada Transmit Receive Limits18 •156.900 161.50018A ••156.900 156.90019 •156.950 161.55019A ••156.950 156.95020 •••157.000 161.600 1 watt CAN20A •157.000 157.00021 ••157.050 161.65021A ••157.050 157.05022 •157.100 161.70022A ••157.100 157.10023 ••157.150 161.75023A •157.150 157.15024 •••157.200 161.80025 •••157.250 161.85026 •••157.300 161.90027 •••157.350 161.95028 •••157.400 162.00060 ••156.025 160.62561 •156.075 160.67561A ••156.075 156.07562 •156.125 160.72562A • 156.125 156.125F80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:15 PM Page 18
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®VHF Marine Channel Assignments19Channel Use18 Port Operations, Ship Movement18A Commercial19 Port Operations, Ship Movement19A Commercial20 Canada (Coast Guard Only); International (Port Operations, Ship Movement)20A Port Operations 21 Port Operations, Ship Movement21A U.S. (Government Only); Canada (Coast Guard Only)22 Port Operations, Ship Movement22A U.S. and Canadian Coast Guard Liaison and Maritime Safety InformationBroadcasts that are announced on Channel 1623 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)23A Government Only 24 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)25 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)26 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)27 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)28 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)60 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)61 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operation, Ship Movement61A U.S. (Government Only); Canada (Coast Guard Only); West Coast (Coast Guard Only); East Coast (Commercial Fishing)62 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement62A West Coast (Coast Guard Only); East Coast (Commercial Fishing) VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:15 PM Page 19
20 EnglishVHF Marine Channel AssignmentsVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsChannel Channel Map Frequency PowerNumber USA Int’l Canada Transmit Receive Limits63 •156.175 160.77563A •156.175 156.17564 ••156.225 160.82564A ••156.225 156.22565 •156.275 160.87565A •••156.275 156.27566 •156.325 160.92566A •••156.325 156.325 1 watt CAN67 •••156.375 156.375 1 watt USA68 •••156.425 156.42569 •••156.475 156.47570 •••156.525 156.525 DSC Use Only71 •••156.575 156.57572 •••156.625 156.62573 •••156.675 156.67574 •••156.725 156.72575 •156.775 156.775 1 watt Only INT76 •156.825 156.825 1 watt Only INT77 •••156.875 156.875 1 watt USA and CANF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:15 PM Page 20
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®VHF Marine Channel Assignments21Channel Use63 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement63A Port Operations and Commercial, VTS in selected areas64 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement64A U.S. (Government Only); Canada (Commercial Fishing)65 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement65A Port Operations66 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement66A Port Operations67 U.S. (Commercial). Used for bridge-to-bridge communications in lowerMississippi River (Intership Only); Canada (Commercial Fishing), S&R68 Non-Commercial (Recreational)69 U.S. (Non-Commercial, Recreational); Canada (Commercial Fishing Only);International (Intership, Port Operations, Ship Movement)70 Digital Selective Calling (Voice communications not allowed.)71 U.S. and Canada (Non-Commercial, Recreational); International (Port Operations, Ship Movement)72 Non-Commercial (Intership Only)73 U.S. (Port Operations); Canada (Commercial Fishing Only); International (Intership, Port Operations, Ship Movement)74 U.S. (Port Operations); Canada (Commercial Fishing Only); International (Intership, Port Operations, Ship Movement)75 Port Operations (Intership Only)76 Port Operations (Intership Only)77 Port Operations (Intership only). Restricted to communications with pilots for movement and docking of ships.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:16 PM Page 21
Channel Channel Map Frequency PowerNumber USA Int’l Canada Transmit Receive Limits78 •156.925 161.52578A ••156.925 156.92579 •156.975 161.57579A ••156.975 156.97580 •157.025 161.62580A ••157.025 157.02581 •157.075 161.67581A ••157.075 157.07582 •157.125 161.72582A ••157.125 157.12583 ••157.175 161.77583A ••157.175 157.17584 •••157.225 161.82584A •157.225 157.22585 •••157.275 161.87585A •157.275 157.27586 •••157.325 161.92586A •157.325 157.32587 •••157.375 161.97587A •157.375 157.37588 •••157.425 162.02588A •157.425 157.425NOTE Many of the plain numbered channels, such as 01, 02 and 03, transmit on onefrequency and receive on another. This is termed duplex operation. The rest of the plain numbered channels and all of the A channels, such as 01A, 03A and 04A, transmit and receive on a single frequency, which is termed simplexoperation. Your radio automatically adjusts to these conditions. When in simplexoperation, the A icon will appear on the LCD (see illustration on page A2).22 EnglishVHF Marine Channel AssignmentsVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:16 PM Page 22
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®VHF Marine Channel Assignments23Channel Use78 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)78A Non-Commercial (Recreational)79 Port Operations, Ship Movement79A Commercial (Also Non-Commercial only in Great Lakes)80 Port Operations, Ship Movement80A Commercial (Also Non-Commercial only in Great Lakes)81 Port Operations, Ship Movement81A U.S. (Government Only; Environmental Protection Operations)82 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operation, Ship Movement82A U.S. (Government Only); Canada (Coast Guard Only)83 Canada (Coast Guard Only)83A U.S. (Government Only); Canada (Coast Guard Only)84 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)84A Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)85 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)85A Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)86 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)86A Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)87 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)87A Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)88 Public Correspondence (Ship to Coast). In U.S. only within 75 miles of Canadian Border.88A Commercial Intership OnlyNOTE All channels are pre-programmed at the factory according to internationalregulations and those of the FCC (U.S.A.) and Industry Canada (Canada). They cannot be altered by the user nor can modes of operation be changedbetween simplex and duplex.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:16 PM Page 23
NOAA Weather Channels and Alert •Monitoring the weather will probably be a frequent use of your radio. NOAA providescontinuous, around-the-clock broadcasts of the latest weather information. Tapedweather messages run every four (4) to six (6) minutes and are revised every two(2) or three (3) hours, or as needed. The Coast Guard also announces weather andother safety warnings on Channel 16 and DSC Channel 70. Smart boaters keep aneye on safety and an ear to the radio — and never let the weather catch themunaware.NOAA Emergency Weather AlertIn the event of a major storm or other weather condition requiring vessels at sea or on other bodies of water to be notified, NOAA broadcasts a 1050 Hz tone thatreceivers such as your CobraMarine VHF radio can detect and warn you of a weatheralert condition. When the Weather Alert mode on your radio is On, this signal willproduce the weather alert alarm tone from the speaker and a “weather alert”message on the LCD to signal that a weather alert is being broadcast. The radio will automatically switch to Weather Radio mode.TestTo test this system, NOAA broadcasts the 1050 Hz signal every Wednesdaysometime between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. in each local time zone. Any receiver that candetect the weather alert tone may use this feature to verify that this feature isfunctioning properly.Weather Frequency/ChannelChannel RX Frequency MHz Weather Channel1 162.550 NOAA2 162.400 NOAA3 162.475 NOAA4 162.425 NOAA5 162.450 NOAA6 162.500 NOAA7 162.525 NOAA8 161.650 Canadian9 161.775 Canadian10 163.275 NOAA24 EnglishNOAA Weather Channels and AlertVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:16 PM Page 24
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®World City Time Zones25World City Time Zones •In order to set correct local time as compared to different World City Time Zones,enter the hour “offset” as listed below. The correct local time appears on the VHF forCities all over the world. See page 42 for setup information.Longitudinal Zone Offset CityE172.50 to W172.50 -12 IDLW (International Date Line West)W172.50 to W157.50 -11 NomeW157.50 to W142.50 -10 HonoluluW142.50 to W127.50 -9 Yukon STDW127.50 to W112.50 -8 Los Angeles STDW112.50 to W097.50 -7 Denver STDW097.50 to W082.50 -6 Chicago STDW082.50 to W067.50 -5 New York STDW067.50 to W052.50 -4 CaracasW052.50 to W037.50 -3 Rio de JaneiroW037.50 to W022.50 -2 Fernando de NoronhaW022.50 to W007.50 -1 Azores IslandsW007.50 to E007.50 GMT +0 LondonE007.50 to E022.50 +1 RomeE022.50 to E037.50 +2 CairoE037.50 to E052.50 +3 MoscowE052.50 to E067.50 +4 Abu DhabiE067.50 to E082.50 +5 MaldivesE082.50 to E097.50 +6 DhuburiE097.50 to E112.50 +7 BangkokE112.50 to E127.50 +8 Hong KongE127.50 to E142.50 +9 TokyoE142.50 to E157.50 +10 SydneyE157.50 to E172.50 +11 Solomon IslandsE172.50 to W172.50 +12 AucklandVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsF80 General.qxp:QXP-1058731464.qxp 11/3/06 4:16 PM Page 25
26 EnglishIncluded in this PackageIncluded in this Package •You should find all of the following items in the package with your CobraMarine VHF radio:NOTECobra Accessory Harness CM 140-001 is an optional wire harness that isused to interface the MR F80 radio with the Cobra MC 600C Serieschartplotters.Installation and Start-UpTransceiver Transceiver Flush Mount Kit16/9MicrophoneTransceiver Surface Mount KitOperating Instruction ManualWARNINGThis equipment is designed to generate a digitalmaritime distress and safety signal to facilitate search and rescue. To be effective as a safetydevice, this equipment must be used only withincommunication range of a shore-based VHF marine channel 70 distress and safety watchsystem. The range of the signal may vary outunder normal conditions should be approximately20 nautical miles.Warning Sticker Power/Interface CablesMic Mounting KitF80 Installation.qxp:QXP-1058720374.qxp 11/3/06 4:18 PM Page 26
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Mounting and Powering the Radio27Installation and Start-UpMounting and Powering the Radio •Before using your CobraMarine VHF radio, it must be installed on your vessel.Installing Your RadioChoose a location for your radio where it will be conveniently accessible with thefollowing factors in mind: The leads to the battery and the antenna should be as short as possible. The antenna must be mounted at least 3 ft (0,9 m) from the transceiver. The radio and all speakers need to be far enough from any magnetic compass to avoid deviation due to the speaker magnet. There needs to be free air flow around the heat-sink fins on the back of the transceiver.Surface MountA Surface Mounting kit is included with your CobraMarine VHF radio to allow itsinstallation on almost any flat horizontal surface.To Mount the Transceiver on Almost any Flat Surface:1. Use the mounting bracket as a templateto drill holes for the mounting screws.2. Attach the mounting bracket to the chosen surface with the mounting bracket screws and washers.3. Attach the transceiver to the mountingbracket with the Tilt Lock knobs.4. Tilt the transceiver to a convenient angle and tighten the Tilt Lock knobs.Surface Mounting KitTilt Lock KnobsF80 Installation.qxp:QXP-1058720374.qxp 11/3/06 4:18 PM Page 27
Microphone Bracket Mounting KitTo Install The Microphone Bracket Mounting Kit:Install the microphone bracket mounting kit on avertical surface near the transceiver using thesupplied stainless steel screws.Flush MountA Flush Mount kit is included with your CobraMarine VHFradio to allow its installation in almost any flat surface.To Mount the Transceiver Flush in Almost any Flat Surface:1. Use the supplied template (VHF Radio MRF80) to markand cut an opening in the flat surface. See page 82 fortemplate.NOTICE Before cutting, be sure the area behind the flat surface is clear of any instruments, wires or structurethat might be damaged in the process.2. Insert the transceiver into the opening.3. Attach the mounting brackets to the sides of the transceiver with the adjusting screw flanges facing the back of the flat surface.4. Tighten the adjusting screws againstthe back of the flat surface until theflange on the front of the transceiver is tight against the flat surface. Do notovertighten.28 EnglishInstallation and Start-UpMounting and Powering the RadioSee final pagesfor template.Use Supplied TemplateInsert TransceiverAdjusting ScrewsAttach Mounting BracketsMicrophone BracketMounting KitF80 Installation.qxp:QXP-1058720374.qxp 11/3/06 4:18 PM Page 28
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Mounting and Powering the Radio29Warning StickerFCC regulations require that the Warning Stickersupplied with this radio be applied to a spot where it is easily seen by the radio operator. Be sure the location is clean and dry before applying the sticker.Electrical Power ConnectionElectrical power is supplied to thetransceiver by two (2) bullet-typeconnectors coming from a 13.8-volt DCvoltage source (12-volt nominal). Thepositive lead must be attached to a fusedconnector.To Connect to a Power Source:1. Attach the black (-) wire to anegative (-) ground.2. Attach the fused red power (+) wireto the positive (+) side of the powersystem.NOTEThis radio will draw up to 8 amps when transmitting at full power.NOTECobra Accessory Harness CM 140-001 is an optional wire harness that isused to interface the MR F80 radio with the Cobra MC 600C Serieschartplotters.NOTICE A reverse polarity connection will damage the radio.Installation and Start-Up02553438 N11027843 WWARN INGThis equipment is designed to generate a digitalmaritime distress and safety signal to facilitate search and rescue. To be effective as a safetydevice, this equipment must be used only withincommunication range of a shore-based VHF marine channel 70 distress and safety watchsystem. The range of the signal may vary outunder normal conditions should be approximately20 nautical miles.Warning StickerPower Connection CableRed CablePositive (+)Black CableNegative (-)– +F80 Installation.qxp:QXP-1058720374.qxp 11/3/06 4:18 PM Page 29
30 EnglishAntenna Requirements and AttachmentInstallation and Start-UpAntenna Requirements and Attachment •Antenna RequirementsYour CobraMarine VHF radio requires an external marine antenna to send signals into the air and to receive them. The radio is arranged to use any of the popular marine VHF antennas, but it is up to you to choose which antenna to use.Since it represents the link between your radio and the outside world, Cobra suggests you purchase the best quality antenna, coaxial cable and connectors you can. This is best accomplished with the advice and guidance of a knowledgeable dealer who can assess the variables involved with your particular boat and preferences.WARNING Compliance with FCC requirements for Radio Frequency Exposure is the responsibility of both the antenna installer and the radio operator.Safe Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) RadiusTo avoid health hazards from excessive exposure to RF energy, FCC OETBulletin 65 establishes an MPE radius of 10 ft (3 m) for the maximum power of your radio with an antenna having a maximum power gain of 9 dBi. This means that all persons must be at least 10 ft (3 m) away from the antenna when the radio is transmitting.Installation Requirements An omnidirectional antenna with a gain not greater than 9 dBi must be mounted at least 16.4 ft (5 m) above the highest deck where people may be during radio transmissions, measured vertically from the lowestpoint of the antenna. This provides the minimum separation distance to comply with RF exposure requirements and is based on the MPE radius of 10 ft (3 m) plus the 6.6 ft (2 m) height of an adult. For vessels without structure to mount the antenna as described in A, it must be mounted as follows AND all persons must be outside the 10 ft (3 m) MPE radius during radio transmissions. The antenna must be mounted so that its lowest point is at least 3.3 ft (1 m) vertically above the heads of all persons during radio transmissions.F80 Installation.qxp:QXP-1058720374.qxp 11/3/06 4:18 PM Page 30
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Antenna Requirements and Attachment31Installation and Start-UpWARNINGDo not transmit when anyone is within the MPE radius of the antenna unlessthat person or persons are shielded from the antenna by a grounded metallicbarrier. This is especially important on vessels with antennas mounted asdescribed in B where no one may be within 9 ft (2,8 m) horizontally from thebase of the antenna during transmissions.FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE ABOVE LIMITS MAY EXPOSE THOSE WITHIN THE MPE RADIUS TO RF ENERGY ABSORPTION IN EXCESS OF THE FCCMAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE EXPOSURE. IT IS THE RADIO OPERATOR’SRESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE THAT MPE LIMITS ARE HEEDED AND THAT NO ONE IS WITHIN THE MPE RADIUS DURING TRANSMISSIONS.Antenna Lead AttachmentOnce the antenna is installed, the Coaxial Cable Lead can be attached to the coaxial cable socket at the back of thetransceiver.NOTICE Attempting to transmit without an antenna attachedwill damage your CobraMarine VHF radio.Coaxial Cable SocketF80 Installation.qxp:QXP-1058720374.qxp 11/3/06 4:18 PM Page 31
32 EnglishExternal Devices and Connections External Devices and Connections •Your CobraMarine VHF radio is set up to connect auxiliary devices for navigation,convenience and added versatility. As is the case with the antenna, choosing thesedevices is best done with the advice and guidance of a knowledgeable dealer.Standard connectors are provided on the front and back of the transceiver.NMEA Communication CableYour CobraMarine Radio is set up with an NMEA communication port that allows theradio to communicate with other electronic equipment such as a GPS Chartplotter,Depth Sounder, Auto Pilot, DSC VHF Radio, Radar and Personal Computer with theability to display information. This capability allows for the operator to do PositionPolling and Position Requests directly from the radio. The NMEA input and outputleads are directed through the NMEA communication port.External Speaker (Not Included)An External Speaker can provide greater volume to hear messages than the speakerin the transceiver.To Install an External Speaker:1. Connect the speaker positive (+) wire to the orange wire coming out of thestandard speaker/PA wire harness. 2. Connect the speaker negative (-) wire to the black/white wire coming out of the standard speaker/PA wire harness.Installation and Start-UpALARM IN = BLUE/WHITE STRIPEBLACK/WHITE(SPEAKER -)ROSE RED(PA SPEAKER +)ORANGE(SPEAKER +)NMEA OUT - = PURPLENMEA OUT + = GRAYNMEA IN - = GREENNMEA IN + = WHITENMEA Cable F80 Installation.qxp:QXP-1058720374.qxp 11/3/06 4:18 PM Page 32
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®External Devices and Connections 33Public Address Speaker (Not Included)At times, it may be handy to address other boats or giveinstructions to line handlers on the dock. Your CobraMarineVHF radio can be switched to operate in the Public Addressmode through an attached PA speaker.To Install a Public Address Speaker:1. Connect the PA speaker positive (+) wire to the rose redwire coming out of the standard speaker/PA wire harness. 2. Connect the PA speaker negative (-) wire to theblack/white wire coming out of the standard speaker/PAwire harness. Global Positioning System (GPS) Device(Not Included)Cobra Electronics strongly recommends that you obtain andconnect a GPS device to your CobraMarine VHF radio. Byhaving a GPS connected, your position will be continuously indicated on the LCD and, most importantly,it will be included automatically in any DSC distressmessage you may need to send. That will take the “search” out of “search and rescue.”To Install a GPS Device:1. Install the GPS device in a convenient location accordingto its manufacturer’s directions.2. Bond the NMEA out negative (-) wire of your GPS to theNMEA in negative (-) wire (green) of the MR F80NMEA/IO interface cable.3. Bond the NMEA out positive (+) wire of your GPS to theNMEA in positive (+) wire (white) of the MR F80NMEA/IO interface cable.NOTEWhen bonding the wires, make sure connections are secure and properly insulated to prevent electricalarching.4. Connect the new combination cable to the GPS deviceand to the back of the transceiver.Installation and Start-UpSpeaker/PA Cable NMEA/IO CableF80 Installation.qxp:QXP-1058720374.qxp 11/3/06 4:18 PM Page 33
34 EnglishExternal Devices and ConnectionsNOTESatellite acquisition time is dependent on the GPS device.CobraMarine Chartplotter MC 600C SeriesYour CobraMarine VHF radio is set up to connect directly to your chartplotterwith a custom accessory cable that eases the installation.The chartplotter uses a state-of-the-art electronic chart system, designed as acustom navigation aid. All calculations and information necessary for thenavigation are performed and displayed on the chartplotter quickly andaccurately providing all of the capabilities of a conventional GPS, but with theadded benefit of a powerful electronic chart display.Wiring the chartplotter to the transceiver is made easy with a custom-madeoptional Accessory Cable harness P/N CM 140-001. This cable has a molded8-pin connector that plugs directly into the appropriate connectors on the MRF80 and the MC 600C Series.To Install the Chartplotter:1. Install the chartplotter in a convenient location according to thechartplotter owner’s manual. 2. Connect NMEA out positive (+) wire to NMEA in positive (+) wire coming from the chartplotter.3. Connect NMEA out negative (-) wire to NMEA in negative (-) wire coming from the chartplotter.4. Plug 8-pin rubber connector into transceiver.Installation And Start-UpMR F80 to Chartplotter ConnectionF80 Installation.qxp:QXP-1058720374.qxp 11/3/06 4:18 PM Page 34
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®Getting StartedGetting Started •Refer to the foldout at the front of this manual to identify the various controls and indicators on your radio.Throughout this manual you will be instructed to press, or to press and hold buttonson the transceiver or on the microphone/speaker. Press means a momentary press,then release; press and hold means to hold the button down.Tones and AlarmsWhen your CobraMarine VHF radio is On, you can expect to hear the following tonesand alarms. The volume of these sounds is controlled by the circuitry in the radio and is not affected by the volume set with the On-Off Power/Volumeknob or Volume Up/Down buttons.Confirmation ToneA single, high-pitched beep confirms all button presses except the Talk button. It can be turned On or Off. See set-up routines on page 42.Error Tone Three (3) medium-pitch tones indicate an invalid button press (error).DSC Distress Alarm High—low—high—low—high. Pause, then repeat. The volume of this alarm willincrease after 10 seconds. Press any button to turn it Off.NOTEThis alarm sounds only for DSC distress calls on Channel 70. It does not sound for voice calls on Channel 16 — you still must listen for those.Distress Acknowledgement AlarmHigh—low. Long pause, then repeat. Press any button to turn it Off.DSC Routine Call AlarmHigh—pause—high—pause—high. Long pause, then repeat. Press any button toturn it Off.DSC Geographical Alarm Loud, continuous, medium-pitched, high-low tones (warble) — sounds when a geographical call is received. Press any button to turn it Off.35Operating Your RadioF80 Installation.qxp:QXP-1058720374.qxp 11/3/06 4:19 PM Page 35
36 EnglishGetting StartedDSC Position Request AlarmMedium-loud, continuous, low-pitched series of closelyspaced, four (4) beeps [three (3) short – one (1) long]groups — sounds when a POSITION REQUEST call isreceived. Press any button to turn it Off.DSC Individual AlarmMedium-loud, continuous, medium-pitched, three (3) beepgroups — sounds when an Individual call is received. Pressany button to turn it Off.Weather AlarmMedium-loud, continuous, medium-pitched series of one-half second beeps spaced one-half second apart — soundswhen weather alert is turned On and NOAA sends a 1050 Hzweather alert tone on the selected weather channel. Pressany button to turn it Off.Power On-Off – Volume/SquelchOn-OffTransceiver power can be turned On or Off by using theOn/Off — Volume rotary concentric knob located at theupper right-hand side of the radio. VolumeVolume is controlled by turning the On/Off Volume rotary concentric knob. The radio speaker is located on the left sideof the display.To increase the volume, turn the Rotary knob clockwise.To decrease the volume, turn the Rotary knobcounterclockwise.Operating Your RadioOn/Off Power/Volume KnobF80 Installation.qxp:QXP-1058720374.qxp 11/3/06 4:19 PM Page 36
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Getting Started37Squelch Squelch control is controlled by turning the inner (back)rotary concentric knob located directly behind the On/Off – Volume knob. With the power On, turn the knob counterclockwise till you hear a hissing sound, then turn theknob clockwise till the hissing stops. This will establish a “Baseline” squelch.By turning the knob further in a clockwise direction, you willfilter weak and medium-strength signals. By turning the knob further in a counterclockwise direction from your baseline setting, you will receive weaker signals.Squelch control filters weak signals and radio frequency (RF) noise so that you will clearly hear the signals you want.NOTEIf the Squelch is set so that you can hear a continuous hissing sound, the Memory Scan and Tri-Watchfunctions will be blocked.Channel Select Using Radio KnobAllows for the manual selection of all the VHF marine channels that have been established for use in the U.S.A., Internationally and in Canada.NOTEThis knob will also allow scrolling in many of the setup and advanced operation menus.When the Channel Select knob on the radio is turned in aclockwise rotation, higher numbered VHF marine channelscan be accessed. When the Channel Select knob on theradio is turned in a counterclockwise direction, lowernumbered VHF marine channels can be accessed.Channel Select Using MicrophoneBy pressing microphone Channel Up button, highernumbered VHF marine channels can be accessed. Bypressing the microphone Channel Down button, lowernumbered VHF marine channels can be accessed.Operating Your RadioSELECTMEMChannel Select KnobSquelch Knob F80 Installation.qxp:QXP-1058720374.qxp 11/3/06 4:19 PM Page 37
38 EnglishLocal Mode ButtonThe radio features a Local Mode button that decreases radiosensitivity when operating inside populated areas. When the Local Mode button is On, the power of aninbound receive (Rx) signal is reduced without distortingthe waveform. Reducing an inbound signal powerprevents “noise interference” from random RF Noise inpopulated marinas, cities and commercial areas. Whenthe Local Mode button is On, the “Local On” icondisplays. When the Local Mode button is Off, the radio receives afull signal with an extended operational range.Channel Preset (Function) ButtonsUse the Channel Preset buttons for direct access to favoritechannels in the Standby mode and as selection keys in theSetup mode. When a Channel Preset button is pressed and released,the radio goes directly to the assigned preset channel. Ifno preset channels are assigned, three (3) error tonessound. After the button is released the radio returns tothe Standby mode. When a Channel Preset button is pressed and held formore than two (2) seconds, the working channel will beassigned to the button.Getting StartedOperating Your RadioLocal Mode ButtonChannel Preset ButtonsF80 Installation.qxp:QXP-1058720374.qxp 11/3/06 4:19 PM Page 38

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