Cobra Electronics MRHH125 Marine VHF Transceiver User Manual MRHH125 manual Part 1

Cobra Electronics Corporation Marine VHF Transceiver MRHH125 manual Part 1

Contents

User Manual Part 1

A1 EnglishOur Thanks to You andCustomer AssistanceIntroductionVHF MARINE RADIOMR HH125Printed in China Part No. 480-426-P Version AOwner’s ManualNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®EnglishOur Thanks to You •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 battery-powered portable transceiver for use afloat. It gives you two-way vessel-to-vessel and vessel-to-shore station communications, primarily for safety and secondarily for navigation and operational purposes. With it, you can call for help, get information from other boaters, talk to lock or bridge tenders, and make radiotelephone calls to anywhere in the world through a marine operator.Besides two-way communications, the radio can provide quick access to receive all the NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) weatherchannels and alert you to weather emergencies with a tone on a weather channelyou can select for your area.Customer Assistance •Should 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 customerassistance services:For Assistance in the U.S.A.Automated Help Desk English only.24 hours a day, 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 (on-line: Frequently Asked Questions).English and Spanish. productinfo@cobra.com (e-mail).For Assistance Outside the U.S.A.Contact Your Local DealerCustomer Assistance©2008 Cobra Electronics Corporation™ 6500 West Cortland StreetChicago, Illinois 60707 USAwww.cobra.com10222_MR125_EnCover_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:00 PM Page A1
A3 EnglishIntroductionA2 EnglishRadio Controls and IndicatorsIntroductionBacklit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen •Instant Channel 16/9 ButtonON/OFF/Volume ControlExternal Speaker/Microphone JackAntennaBacklitLCDScreen BatteryCompartmentBacklight/Key LockButtonMemory/EscapeButtonPush toTalk Button(Talk)UIC Active ChannelMap Icons Dual Watch IconBattery Power IconButton Lock IconWeather IconKey Tone IconScan IconActive Channel NumbersSpeakerPower SettingsSelect 1 or 3 watts of output power for near or distant calling.USA/International/Canada ChannelsOperate on any of the three (3) differentchannel maps set up for these areas.All NOAA Weather ChannelsInstant access to all National WeatherChannels, 24 hours a day.Emergency Weather AlertReceive NOAA alerts when threateningweather is nearby.WaterproofMeets JIS4 waterproof standards. Key LockPrevents accidental setting changes when key lock is set.Channel Scan/Memory ScanScan through all or memorized channels to find conversations in progress.Instant Channel 16/9Provides instant access to priorityChannel 16 and calling Channel 9.Dual-WatchUse to monitor two (2) channels at once –Channel 16 and one programmable channel.Roger Beep Tone (Selectable)Confirmation tone indicates thecompletion of the user’s transmission andsignals to others it is clear to talk. On or Off selectable.Rechargeable NiMH (Nickel-MetalHydride) BatteriesFive (5) rechargeable NiMH batteriessupplied with the unit provide extendedoperating time compared to alkalinebatteries and have no memory effect.Five (5) AAA alkaline batteries may also be used for emergency backup power.12V Power Cord IncludedCharge the NiMH batteries in a car or boat.Speaker/Mic JackAllows connecting optional Cobra LapelSpeaker/Mic. Memory ChannelsAllows programming of up to ten (10) VHF memory channels.Signal Strength MeterShows the strength of incoming or outgoing signals.Illuminated ButtonsAllows high visibility of all function buttons.Product Features •Belt ClipEngagementMicrophoneLow/High Power IconsBattery DoorLatchSimplex Operation IconBacklit LCD Screenand Product FeaturesRoger Beep IconMemory Channel IconWeather Alert IconPower Level/Weather ButtonEnter/SetupButtonDual Watch/Scan ButtonChannel Down ButtonReceive & Transmit IconsSignal Strength IconBroadcast Receive IconSquelchDefeat ButtonCharge JackWrist StrapConnectorChannel Up Button10222_MR125_EnCover_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:00 PM Page A2
Introduction1Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Table of ContentsIntroductionOur Thanks to You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1Radio Controls and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2Backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3Product Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3Important Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Recommendations for Marine Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 FCC Licensing Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4InstallationIncluded in this Package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Wrist Strap, Belt Clip and External Speaker/Mic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Batteries and Charging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Operating Your RadioGetting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Setup Mode Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Standby, Receive and Transmit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 NOAA All Hazards/Weather Radio and Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19Advanced Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsVHF Marine Radio Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Voice Calling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Radiotelephone Calls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Emergency Messages and Distress Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Warranty and TrademarkLimited 1-Year Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Trademark Acknowledgement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Customer ServiceProduct Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Appendix – English/EspañolVHF Marine Channel Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48Weather Channel Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 1
2EnglishImportant Safety InformationIntroductionImportant Safety Information •Before installing and using your CobraMarine®VHF radio, please read thesegeneral precautions and warnings.Warning and Notice StatementsTo make the most of this radio, it must be installed and used properly. Please readthe installation and operating instructions carefully before installing and using theradio. Special attention must be paid to the WARNING and NOTICE statements inthis manual.WARNINGStatements identify conditions that could result in personal injury or loss of life.NOTICEStatements identify conditions that could cause damage to the radio or other equipment.Safety Training InformationThis CobraMarine®radio has been tested and found to comply with the FCC RFexposure limits for use by the “General Population” and Industry Canada RF exposurelimits for use by the “General Public.” This CobraMarine VHF radio also complies withthe following guidelines and standards regarding RF energy and electromagneticenergy levels as well as evaluation of those levels for human exposure:■ FCC OET Bulletin 65 Edition 97-01 Supplement C, Evaluating Compliance withFCC Guidelines for Human Exposure to Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Fields.■ American National Standards Institute (C95.1-1992), IEEE Standard for SafetyLevels with Respect to Human Exposure to Radio Frequency ElectromagneticFields, 3 kHz to 300 GHz.■ American National Standards Institute (C95.3-1992), IEEE RecommendedPractice for the Measurement of Potentially Hazardous Electromagnetic Fields — RF and Microwave.General Precautions •The following WARNINGS and NOTICE information on the following page will makeyou aware of RF exposure hazards and how to assure you operate the radio withinthe FCC RF exposure limits established for the radio.Introduction10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 2
3Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Important Safety InformationWARNINGSYour radio generates electromagnetic RF (radio frequency) energy when it istransmitting. To ensure that you and those around you are not exposed to excessiveamounts of that energy, DO NOT touch the antenna when transmitting. KEEP theradio at least two (2) inches (5cm) away from yourself and others when transmitting.DO NOT transmit more than 50% of the time the radio is in use — 50% dutycycle. The radio is transmitting when the Talk button is pressed and the transmitinformation 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 place the transceiver or microphone/speaker where they might interfere with operation of your vessel or cause injury.DO NOT allow children or anyone unfamiliar with proper procedures to operate the radio without supervision.Failure to observe any of these warnings may cause you to exceed FCC RFexposure limits or create other dangerous conditions.IntroductionNOTICEYour radio is waterproof only when the batteries are properly installed.AVOID using or storing the radio at temperatures below -4˚F (-20˚C) or above 140˚F (60˚C).KEEP your radio at least 3 ft (0,9 m) away from your vessel’s magnetic navigation compass.DO NOT attempt to service any internal parts yourself. Have any necessary service performed by a qualified technician.This radio is supplied with NiMH (Nickel-Metal Hydride) rechargeable batteries.■Use only the Cobra power cord to recharge NiMH batteries in the radio.■Do not short circuit the batteries.■When replacing the batteries, dispose of the old batteries properly. The NiMH batteries may explode if disposed of in a fire.Changes or modifications to your radio MAY VOID its compliance with FCC (FederalCommunications Commission) rules and make it illegal to use.10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 3
4EnglishMarine Communication,Procedures & FCC LicensingIntroductionRecommendations for Marine Communication •The frequencies your radio uses are set aside to enhance safety afloat and for vesselnavigation and operational messages over a range suitable for nearshore voyages. If the 3 watt maximum output of your radio is not sufficient for the distances you travelfrom the coast, consider a higher powered handheld or installing a Cobra Marine fixedmount radio with up to 25 watts of output power. (Visit www.cobra.com or yourlocal dealer for model availability.)If traveling far offshore, you should consider adding even more powerful radioequipment such as HF single side band or satellite radio for your vessel.The U.S. Coast Guard does not endorse cellular telephones as substitutes for marineradios. They generally cannot communicate with rescue vessels and, if you make adistress 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 behard to locate. If you do not know where you are, the Coast Guard will have difficultyfinding you if you are using a cellular telephone.However, cellular telephones can have a place on board where cellular coverage is available — to allow social conversations and keep the marine frequenciesuncluttered and available for their intended uses.VHF Marine Radio Procedures •If you are not familiar with or need to brush up on the protocols that must befollowed when using a VHF Marine Radio, please study the section beginning at page 28 before putting your radio into service.FCC Licensing Information •CobraMarine VHF radios comply with the FCC (Federal CommunicationsCommission) requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Service.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 (1) button.Station LicenseAn FCC ship station license is no longer required for any vessel traveling in U.S.A. waterswhich uses a VHF marine radio, RADAR, or EPIRB (Emergency Position IndicatingRadio Beacon), and which is not required to carry radio equipment. However, any vesselrequired to carry a marine radio on an international voyage, carrying an HF single sideband radiotelephone, or carrying a marine satellite terminal must obtain a station license.Introduction10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 4
Introduction5Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®FCC LicensingFCC license forms and applications for ship and land stations can be downloadedthrough the Internet at www.fcc.gov. Forms can also be obtained by calling the FCCat 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. TheUnited States Coast Guard recommends that the boat’s registration number andstate 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.User Responsibility and Operating LocationsAll users are responsible for observing domestic and foreign government regulationsand are subject to severe penalties for violations. The VHF frequencies on your radioare reserved for marine use and require a special license to operate from 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 Warning: Replacement or substitution of transistors, regular diodes orother parts of a unique nature, with parts other than those recommended byCobra may cause a violation of the technical regulations of part 80 of the FCCRules, or violation of type acceptance requirements of part 2 of the rules.10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 5
6EnglishIncluded in this PackageIncluded in this Package •You should find all of the following items in the package with your CobraMarine VHF radio.Radio Wrist Strap12V Power CordFor connection to 12-volt power sources.5 Rechargeable NiMH BatteriesOperating Instruction Manual Spring-Loaded Belt ClipVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsInstallation10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 6
7Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Wrist Strap, Belt Clip and External Speaker/MicWrist Strap and Belt Clip •Wrist StrapThe radio comes with the wrist strap already attached. It can be easily removed if you choose not to use it.Belt ClipUse the spring-loaded belt clip to carry the radio on yourperson.1. Press open the belt clip, slide it over the belt and release the clip.2. Insert the round guide on the back of the radio into theguide channel on the belt clip. The radio must be upside-down, as shown, to remove it from the belt clip.3. Once the knob is inserted all the way into the belt clipchannel, the radio swings free but remains secure.External Speaker/Microphone Jack •Your radio can be fitted with an optional ExternalSpeaker/Microphone (not included), freeing your hands for other tasks. Contact your local CobraMarine®dealer or Cobra®directly for optional accessories.To attach the external speaker/microphone:1. Open the speaker/microphone tab on topof the radio.2. Insert the plug into the speaker/microphone jack.Wrist StrapBelt Clip Secured to BeltRemoving the RadioSecure RadioVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsInstallationSpeaker/Microphone Jack10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 7
Install BatteriesVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsInstallation8EnglishBatteries and ChargingBatteries and Charging •The radio is is shipped with five (5) NiMH rechargeablebatteries. WARNINGThe 12V power cord supplied with this radio is onlyto be used with its rechargeable batteries. Do notattempt to charge any other type of batteries in theradio as fire, explosion or battery damage will occur.Rechargeable battery life will be prolonged if extremeambient temperatures are avoided.When your rechargeable batteries begin to discharge tooquickly, it is time to install new batteries. Your radio will alsooperate with five (5) high-quality AAA alkaline batteries.Installing the BatteriesInstall the AAA batteries in the slots in the battery compartment with the batteries oriented according to the polarity (+ & -) marks in the slots.Initial ChargeThe Cobra-provided NiMH batteries may be charged in a caror boat using the appropriate 12V power cord.1. Insert the power cord into the side of the radio.2. Insert the other end of the power cord into a 12V powersource.3. Observe that the red light on the power cord glows toindicate that power is present.4. Allow the batteries to charge for 12 to 14 hours before use.WARNINGOnly the rechargeable NiMH batteries can berecharged. You MUST use the charging deviceprovided with this radio. Do not substitute any othertype of charging adapter. Battery damage, fire orexplosion may result. It is equally important toprevent the NiMH batteries from freezing to obtainbest performance from them.Install BatteriesPower Source10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 8
VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsInstallation9Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Batteries and ChargingTo Remove Batteries from Radio1. Pivot the locking tab on the battery cover and remove it.2. Pull the individual batteries out of the radio housing.NOTICENiMH batteries are toxic. Please dispose of properly.Some marine suppliers accept old batteries forrecycling and some municipal waste disposal agencieshave special provisions for battery disposal.Fully ChargedPartially ChargedFully DischargedLocking TabMaintaining the Battery ChargeAs you use your radio, the battery power icon will show thebattery power remaining. When the icon begins to flash, it istime to recharge or change the batteries.NOTICEUse only the 12V power cord provided by Cobra. Donot use the power cord with alkaline batteries; onlythe NiMH batteries are rechargeable. Spent alkalinebatteries must be discarded and replaced.It is a good idea to keep a set of fresh, high-quality AAAalkaline batteries with your radio. Should the rechargeablebatteries become discharged and no electrical power sourcebe available, you can insert fresh alkaline batteries andcontinue to use your radio.10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 9
VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your Radio10 EnglishGetting StartedGetting Started •Refer to the foldout at the front of this manual to identify thevarious controls and indicators on your radio. Throughoutthis manual you will be instructed to “Press” or to “Pressand Hold” various buttons (except “Push to Talk”) on theradio. “Press” means a momentary press of approximatelyone (1) second. “Press and Hold” means to hold the buttondown for approximately three (3) seconds.Whenever you press any button except the Talk button onyour radio, a brief tone (beep) will sound to confirm thebutton press. With all button presses, the appropriate iconwill appear on the LCD and the backlight will turn On. Thebacklight will stay On for 10 seconds after the button isreleased.At times, you will hear two (2) other sounds. Two (2) beepswill sound to confirm your setting changes and three (3)beeps will sound to notify you of an error.Common Radio FunctionsThe following procedures define common operating functions of the radio when ineither Marine Standby or Weather (WX) Standby modes.Power/Volume ControlPower On/Off ControlThe On/Off/Volume control is located at the upper right sideof the radio. Turning the On/Off/Volume control past thedetent position will turn the radio On or Off.Power SaverYour radio has a unique circuit designed to extend battery life. Ifthere are no transmissions, signals, or button presses for ten(10) seconds, the radio will automatically switch to PowerSave mode. Signal reception or any button press will take theradio out of Power Save mode.Volume ControlVolume is controlled by turning the On/Off/Volume control.■To increase the volume, turn the On/Off/Volume control clockwise.■To decrease the volume, turn the On/Off/Volume controlcounterclockwise.On/Off/Volume Control(Counterclockwise)On/Off/Volume Control(Clockwise)MR HH125 Radio10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 10
VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your Radio11Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Getting StartedRadio Speaker and MicrophoneThe internal Radio Speaker and Microphone are located on thebottom front face of the radio below the lower control buttons.An optional Speaker/Microphone jack is located at the top ofthe radio between the antenna and the On/Off/Volume control.Flip the protective cap open and insert the plug into the jack.Talk ButtonPress and hold the Talk button to transmit messages.Release the Talk button to stop transmitting. If the Talkbutton is pressed while on a receive only channel, a threebeep error signal will sound.Squelch ControlThis radio is equipped with an automatic squelch control.Squelch filters weak signals and radio frequency (RF) noiseso you can hear the main signal clearly.To receive weak signals, the automatic squelch can beturned Off (opened) by pressing the Squelch Defeat button.You will likely hear a lot of static and RF noise along withthe weak signal.Press the Squelch Defeat button for up to five (5) seconds tobriefly open squelch. To hold squelch open for longer periods,press and hold the Squelch Defeat button for more than five(5) seconds. Squelch will remain open until you press theSquelch Defeat button again or you change channels.Squelch ControlSpeaker/Mic JackTalk Button10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 11
VHF Marine Radio Protocols12 EnglishGetting StartedBacklight/Key Lock ButtonThe LCD will be illuminated by the backlight as long as anybutton is pressed and will remain On for 10 seconds afterthe button is released.To Display the Backlight Momentarily:Press the Backlight/Key Lock button. The backlight willremain On for 10 seconds. If the backlight is already On, a press of the Backlight/Key Lock button will turn it Off.Key LockTo prevent accidental changes to your settings, you can lockall of the buttons on the front of the the radio along with theSquelch Defeat button.To Lock or Unlock the Buttons:Press and hold the Backlight/Key Lock button for two (2)seconds. The Key Lock icon will appear or disappear inthe LCD. When Key Lock is On, pressing any of thebuttons on the front of the radio will result in a three (3)beep error message.Both the Backlight/Key Lock button and the Talk button areactive — you can Receive (Rx) or Transmit (Tx) a messagewith Key Lock On, but you cannot change the channel.Channel Up/Down ButtonsYour radio will Receive (Rx) and Transmit (Tx) VHF signals onthe channel indicated on the LCD display. You can change thechannel at any time using the Channel Up/Down buttons.To Change Channels:Press the Channel Up/Down buttons.If you are on Channel 88, pressing the Channel Up buttonwill advance to Channel 01. If you are on Channel 01,pressing the Channel Down button will advance toChannel 88.You can press and hold the Channel Up/Down button forfast advance. The beep sound will occur only at the firstpress of the buttons and not during fast advance.If the new channel selected is restricted to low power, theradio will automatically switch to Low Power mode andthe Low Power icon will appear on the LCD.If the radio is in the Key Lock mode, the channel will notchange and the three (3) beep error signal will sound.Backlight/Key Lock ButtonKey Locked ButtonsKey Lock IconChannel Up/Down ButtonsCurrently On Channel 88VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your Radio10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 12
VHF Marine Radio Protocols13Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Getting StartedSCAN ButtonPress and release the SCAN button to scan all channels. The SCAN icon will display on the LCD display. Scanningbegins at lower channels, and scans to higher channels.Press Channel Up/Down button to change the scandirection.When a signal is received in SCAN mode, the radio willpause 10 seconds before resuming SCAN operation. The scan will stop when the Talk button is pressed.NOTEMemory channels need to be saved to effectivelyenter the Memory Channel mode and scan allmemory channels. See page 25.High/Low (HI/LO) Power ButtonYour radio can transmit selectively at 1 or 3 watts of power.Cobra suggests you maintain the low power setting forshort-range communication. You will conserve battery life and avoid overpowering nearby stations by using a low power signal. Use the High Power setting for long-rangecommunications or when you do not receive a response to a signal sent at 1 watt.To Toggle Between HI/LO Power Modes:Press the Power Level/Weather button. The LCDwill show which mode is in effect. Some channels arerestricted for a maximum use of 1 watt. Your radio willautomatically set the power to Low Power mode when you select those channels. NOTESome channels, frequency bands and countries of usemight not be able to operate in High Power mode.Scan ButtonHI/LO Power ButtonVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your Radio10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 13
VHF Marine Radio Protocols14 EnglishSetup Mode ProgrammingEnter/Setup ButtonVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your RadioSetup Mode Programming •The following series of procedures is designed to allow you to set the programmablefeatures of your radio. Correctly following these steps results in a minimal amountof radio setup programming time.NOTEWhen in the Setup mode, if you stop programming for longer than 15 seconds,your entry will be saved and the radio will go back to the Marine Standbymode. Pressing any of the non-programming buttons (Talk, Dual-Watch/Scan,Power Level/Weather, Instant Channel 16/9) will also exit Setup mode andinvoke the button function or return the radio to Marine Standby mode.When you return to Setup mode and continue programming you will see the last“value” displayed. While in the Setup mode, you will not receive any signal reception.Programming these features will allow you to customize certain features of thisradio to enhance your “On-Water” audio needs.Start from Marine Standby mode to begin Marine (VHF)Setup programming. Press and hold the Enter/Setup buttonfor three (3) seconds to enter the programming mode.Marine (VHF) Mode Programming10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 14
VHF Marine Radio Protocols15Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Setup Mode ProgrammingU.S.A./International/Canada Channel MapsThree (3) sets of VHF Channel Maps 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 same for all three (3) maps, but there are definite differences (see table in the Appendix). Your radio has all three (3) maps built into it and will operate correctly in whichever area you choose.To Set Channel Map Operating Area:1. The Channel Map mode is the first mode that begins theMarine (VHF) Setup programming.2. U, I and Cwill display, with the current setting (the Uicon is the default) flashing. 3. Press Channel Up/Down buttons to select the U, I or Cicon.4. Press Enter/Setup button to save this entry and move tothe next setup programming mode – Roger Beep.NOTEOne or two of the channel maps might have beendisabled for sales of this radio in some countries.Active Channel Map IconSet Channel MapChannel Up/Down ButtonsVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your Radio10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 15
VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your Radio16 EnglishSetup Mode ProgrammingRoger Beep ModeIn Roger Beep mode, your listener will hear an audible tonewhen you release the Talk button. This alerts your listenerthat you are finished talking and it is OK for them to speak.To Set Roger Beep On or Off:1. Display will show ROG icon and ON or OFF flashing.2. Press Channel Up/Down buttons to select ON or OFF.ROG will be displayed when On.3. Press Enter/Setup button to save this entry and move tothe next setup programming mode – Key Tone.Key Tone ModeIn Key Tone mode, an audible tone will sound each time abutton is pressed or you change a setting.To Set Key Tone On or Off:1. Display will show Key Tone icon and ON or OFF flashing.2. Press Channel Up/Down buttons to select ON or OFF.3. Press Enter/Setup button to save all entries.You have now ended Marine (VHF) Setup programmingmode and will enter Marine Standby mode.Roger Beep ModeKey Tone Mode10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 16
VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your Radio17Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Setup Mode ProgrammingProgramming these features will allow your radio to listen to all NOAA Hazard Alertradio signals and warnings.Start from WX Standby mode (see page 20) to begin WX Alert Setup programming.Press and hold the Enter/Setup button for three (3) seconds to enter theprogramming mode.To Set WX Alert On or Off:1. WX Alert mode is the first mode that begins WX AlertSetup programming.2. Display will show WX Alert icon and ON or OFF flashing.3. Press Channel Up and Channel Down buttons to select ON or OFF.4. Press Enter/Setup button to save this entry and move tothe next setup programming mode.To Set WX Auto Search (SCAN) On or Off:1. Display will show WX Alert icon and SCAN, ON or OFF is flashing.2. Press Channel Up and Channel Down buttons to select SCAN, ON or OFF.3. Press the Enter/Setup button to save entry.You have now ended the WX Alert Setup programming mode and will enter the WX Alert Standby mode.When WX Alert is On and WX Auto Search (SCAN) is Off, the unit will continuouslycheck the selected WX channel from Marine or WX Standby for the WX Alert tone. Whenthe tone is detected, the radio will sound an alert tone and flash the WX Alert icon.The unit will remain on that WX channel until you switch back to Marine Standbymode.When WX Auto Search (SCAN) is On, the unit will periodically check all ten (10)weather channels from Marine Standby for the WX Alert tone. WX Alert On/OffWX Auto Search (SCAN)Weather (WX) Alert Mode Programming10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 17
VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your Radio18 EnglishStandby, Receiveand TransmitStandby, Receive and Transmit •Marine Standby and Receive (Rx) ModeMarine Standby mode is the default mode for the radio whenever it is turned On.From this mode, you can change current settings by becoming familiar with thedifferent key functions that are active in Marine Standby mode. While in MarineStandby mode, the user will be able to transmit by pressing the Push to Talk (Talk)button. Users will hear signals on the selected channel(s) in Receive (RX) mode andcan hear alerts broadcast by the Coast Guard and NOAA.NOTECoast Guard alerts are broadcast on Channel 16 and you need to have the WXAlert turned On to receive NOAA weather alerts. While in Marine Standby mode,you will receive any messages sent on the channel to which you are tuned.Transmit (Tx) ModeTransmit (Tx) mode gives you the ability to interact with safety services, other vesselsand shore stations. When you use this capability, be sure to follow the procedures and toobserve the courtesies that govern its use so everyone benefits. See Appendix to helpyou select the proper channels.To Transmit a Message:1. Check to see that your radio is set to a proper channel forthe type of message you plan to send.2. Toggle to the Low Power setting.3. With the microphone about 2 in. [51 mm] from yourmouth, press and hold the Talk button and speak into themicrophone. The Transmit icon will appear on the LCD.4. Release the Talk button when you are finished speaking. Your radio can only operate in either Transmit (Tx) or Receive (Rx) mode at any given time. You will not hear the response to your message unless the Talk button is released. If the Battery Power icon begins blinking on the LCD when the Talk button is pressed, the radio will NOT transmit.Low Power ModeCheck Channel NumberTalk ButtonNOTEIf the Talk button is held down for five (5) minutes,the radio will automatically sound a series of beepsand cease transmitting to prevent unwanted signalgeneration and battery drain. As soon as the Talkbutton is released, it can be pressed again toresume transmission.10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:02 PM Page 18
VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your Radio19Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®NOAA All Hazards/WeatherRadio and AlertWX Standby DisplayNOAA Weather ChannelsMonitoring 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 and othersafety warnings on Channel 16. Smart boaters keep an eye on safety and an ear tothe radio — and never let the weather catch them unaware.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 a loud tone from the speaker in the radio and will automatically switch tothe alerting weather channel so the alert broadcast can be heard.NOAA Test Alert System To test this system, NOAA broadcasts the 1050 Hz signal every Wednesday sometimebetween 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. in each local time zone. Any receiver that can detect theweather alert tone may use this service to verify that this system is functioning properly.These signals will be received in Marine or Weather Standby modes as described below.Weather (WX) Standby ModeTo enter the WX Standby mode, press and hold the Power Level/Weather button. All common operatingfunctions of the radio will work the same in WX Standbymode as they do in the normal Marine Standby mode. Theradio will be monitoring for all alerts in the background whenin the WX Standby mode.10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:03 PM Page 19
VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your Radio20 EnglishNOAA All Hazards/WeatherRadio and AlertWX Alert Standby ModeWhen NOAA broadcasts a weather alert signal and your radio is in WX Alert Standbymode, the following items will be displayed on the LCD display:■The WX icon (cloud/sun) icon will be displayed.■The last used weather channel will be displayed.■The bar graph will display received signal strength level.■The WX Alert icon (safety triangle) will be displayed.NOTEOnly one (1) or two (2) of the weather channels will be operating in any given location (only in Receive (Rx) mode). You will need to select the channel with the strongest signal in your location. NOTEWhen in the WX Alert mode, and NOAA sends the 1050Hz alert tone, the radio will sound a series of loud beeps regardless of the volume control setting.WX Auto Search (SCAN) Mode Function:The purpose of the WX Auto Search (SCAN) function is toenable the receiver to automatically scan for Weather Alertson all ten (10) WX channels while the radio is in MarineStandby status. This allows use of the communicationfunctions of the radio without missing a Weather Alert when:■WX Auto Search (SCAN) function is On.■WX Alert is On.■The radio is tuned to a Marine VHF channel and has entered Power Save mode (meaning there is no signal activity or user input for 10 seconds).■The radio software has detected that the current WX channel signal level has dropped below a preset minimum level or is gone completely.Under these conditions, the software will scan the WX channels looking for an active WX channel. When an active WX channel is found, it will stop the scan and use the new WX channel to look for the standard 1050Hz alert tone.WX Auto Search (SCAN)10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:03 PM Page 20
VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your Radio21Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Advanced OperationAdvanced Operation •Several capabilities of your radio can add to its versatility and ease of use eventhough they are not needed for its basic operation.Channel 16/9 ModeChannel 16/9 mode gives you quick access to calling on Channel 16 and Channel 9from any operational mode.To Switch to Channel 16 or Channel 9:1. Press the Channel 16/9 button to change to Channel 16.2. Press the Channel 16/9 button again to change to Channel 9.3. Press the Channel 16/9 button a third time and return tothe last used Standby channel.NOTEThis key is labeled as “16” for maximum visibility.Channel 16/9 Button10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:03 PM Page 21
VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your Radio22 EnglishAdvanced OperationDual-Watch Scan ModeDual-Watch ModeDual-Watch mode gives you one (1) button access to scan a total of two (2) channels ofmost importance to you. Channel 16 is preprogrammed and will always be one (1) ofthe scanned locations. The other channel can be any marine VHF channel of your choice.Using Dual-Watch1. In Marine Standby mode, select the desired channel forDual-Watch scanning.2. Press the Dual-Watch button. The DW icon will appear on the LCD display and the radio will scan channel 16 and the selected channel.3. A signal on any one (1) of the two (2) channels will stop the scan for 10 seconds to allow you to listen to the traffic on that location.NOTEAfter the Dual-Watch scan stops to monitor achannel, as long as you do not press any buttonswithin 10 seconds, your radio will automaticallyresume scanning the Dual-Watch channels.4. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down buttons to resume scanning the Dual-Watch channels or to change the scan direction.5. To EXIT the Dual-Watch scan, press the Dual-Watchbutton again. The DW icon will disappear from the LCD and the radio will return to Marine Standby mode.DUAL-WATCH Button10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:03 PM Page 22
VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your Radio23Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Advanced OperationTo enter Memory mode, press Memory/Escape button. Thedisplay will show the MEM icon and the Memory Channelbank will be activated and displayed.To Program Memory Locations:1. Press and hold the Memory/Escape button for two (2) seconds. The memory location number will start flashing and the MEM icon will be turned On.2. Use the Channel Up and Channel Down buttons toadvance to the memory location (0-9) you want toprogram.3. Press the Memory/Escape button to select the memory location. The memory channel number will stop flashing and the channel number will start flashing.4. Use the Channel Up and Channel Down buttons to change to the channel you want to store into theselected memory location.5. Press the Memory/Escape button to program that channel. The memory location number will flash again.Repeat steps 2 through 5 to program as many additionalmemory locations as you want [up to ten (10) VHF memorychannels].6. Press and hold the Memory/Escape button fortwo (2) seconds. This will return the radio to Memory mode.7. Press and release the Memory/Escape button again to return to Marine Standby mode. MEM/ESC ButtonMemory Location NumberChannel Up/Down ButtonsChannel NumberMemory Location ModeYour radio has ten (10) memory locations (numbered 0 to 9) for your most frequentlyused channels. These memory locations can be selected individually or can be scanned.10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:03 PM Page 23
VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your Radio24 EnglishAdvanced OperationTo Recall a Stored Memory Location:1. Press the Memory/Escape button. The MEM icon will beturned On.2. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to selectthe memory location. If a memory location has beenprogrammed, its associated channel will display on theLCD. Your radio is now in Marine Standby mode on theselected memory location.To Exit Memory Location Mode:Press the Memory/Escape button to return the radio to Marine Standby mode. The last channel used inMarine Standby mode will now be displayed on the LCD and the MEM icon will disappear.To Erase Stored Memory Locations:1. Press and hold the Memory/Escape button for two (2)seconds. The memory location number will start flashingand the MEM icon will be turned On.2. Use the Channel Up and Channel Down buttons toadvance to the memory location you want to erase.3. Press the Memory/Escape button to select the memorylocation. The memory channel number will stop flashingand the channel number will start flashing.4. Use the Channel Up and Channel Down buttons tochange the channel to read “00” at the selected memorylocation.5. Press the Memory/Escape button to erase that memorylocation.Repeat steps 2 through 5 to erase as many additionalmemory locations as you want.6. Press and hold the Memory/Escape button for two (2)seconds. This will return the radio to Memory mode.7. Press and release the Memory/Escape button again to return to Marine Standby mode. MEM Icon10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:03 PM Page 24
VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsOperating Your Radio25Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Advanced OperationMemory Location Scan ModeDuring Memory Location Scan mode, the radio will rapidlyscan through all programmed memory channels. Wheneverany activity is detected on a channel, the radio will stop thescan for 10 seconds to allow you to listen briefly on thatchannel. It will then continue to scan unless you switch outof Memory Location Scan mode.NOTEIf there are fewer than two (2) memory locationsprogrammed in the radio, the Memory Location Scan option will not be available. At least two (2)memory locations need to be programmed to use the Scan button.To Enter Memory Location Scan:1. From Marine Standby mode, press the Memory/Escapebutton.2. Press the DUAL WATCH/SCAN button. The radio willimmediately begin to scan all pre-assigned memorychannels. The SCAN and MEM icons will show on theLCD.3. A signal on any channel will stop the scan for 10 seconds to allow you to listen to the traffic on that location.4. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to resume scanning the Memory Location Scanchannels or to change the scan direction.5. To EXIT Memory Location Scan mode, press the DUAL WATCH/SCAN button again. The SCAN and MEMicons will disappear from the LCD and the radio willreturn to Marine Standby mode.Memory Location ScanMEM/ESC ButtonScan Button10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:03 PM Page 25
VHF Marine Radio Protocols26 EnglishAdvanced OperationChannel Scan ModeDuring Channel Scan mode, the radio will rapidly switchfrom channel to channel through ALL the channels.Whenever any activity is detected, the radio will stop thescan for 10 seconds to allow you to listen briefly on thatchannel. The radio will then continue to scan unless youswitch out of the Channel Scan mode.To Enter Channel Scan:1. From Marine Standby mode, press and hold the DUAL WATCH/SCAN button. The radio will immediately begin to scan the entire channel map selected in the active channel map. The SCAN icon will show on the LCD.2. A signal on any channel will stop the scan for 10 seconds to allow you to listen to the traffic on that location.3. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to resume scanning the Channel Scan channels or to change the scan direction.4. To EXIT Channel Scan mode, press and hold the DUAL WATCH/SCAN button again. The SCAN icon will disappear from the LCD and the radio will return to Marine Standby mode.SCAN ButtonSCAN IconScanningChannel Up/Down ButtonsOperating Your Radio10222_MRHH125_En_F.qxp 6/28/07 5:03 PM Page 26

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