Cobra Electronics MRHH425 Handheld Marine Transceiver with GMRS User Manual

Cobra Electronics Corporation Handheld Marine Transceiver with GMRS

Contents

users manual 2

22 EnglishIntroductionVHF 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 • 156.125 156.125MRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 22
Introduction23Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®VHF Marine Channel AssignmentsVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsChannel 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) MRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 23
24 EnglishIntroductionVHF 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 •••RX only 156.52571 •••156.575 156.57572 •••156.625 156.62573 •••156.675 156.67574 •••156.725 156.72575 •156.775 156.775 1 watt Only Int.76 •156.825 156.825 1 watt Only Int.77 •••156.875 156.875 1 watt USA and CANMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 24
Introduction25Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®VHF Marine Channel AssignmentsVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsChannel 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.MRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 25
26 EnglishIntroductionChannel 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 ••157.375 161.97587 •157.375 157.37587A •157.375 157.37588 ••157.425 162.02588 •157.425 157.42588A •157.425 157.425NOTE Many of the plain-numbered channels, such as 01, 02 and 03, transmit andreceive on different frequencies. This is termed “duplex operation.” The rest ofthe plain-numbered channels and all of the A channels, such as 01A, 03Aand 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 A3).VHF Marine Channel AssignmentsVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 26
Introduction27Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®VHF Marine Channel AssignmentsChannel 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)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.88 Commercial Intership only88A Commercial Intership onlyNOTEAll channels are preprogrammed 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 ProtocolsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 27
28 EnglishGMRS Communication andGMRS FCC LicensingGMRS Communication •This GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) feature is a land-mobile service availablefor short-distance, two-way communications in the USA. You must have a valid FCClicense to communicate on these channels.The GMRS/FRS frequencies that radio this radio uses are set aside forcommunicating with others while hiking, biking, and working; keeping track offamily and friends at a crowded public event; checking with travel companions inanother car; talking with neighbors; arranging meeting spots with others whileshopping at the mall.Licensed users will be issued a call sign by the FCC, which should be used forstation identification when operating this radio. GMRS users should also cooperateby engaging in permissible transmissions only, avoiding channel interference withother GMRS users, and being prudent with the length of their transmission time.GMRS FCC Licensing •This two-way radio operates on GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) frequencieswhich require an FCC (Federal Communications Commission) license. A user mustbe licensed prior to transmitting on the GMRS band with this radio. Seriouspenalties could result for unlicensed use of GMRS channels, in violation of FCCrules. Operation of this radio is subject to additional rules specified in 47 C.F.R. Part 95.For licensing information and application forms, please call the FCC Hotline at 800-418-FORM. Request form #159 and form #605. Questions regarding the licenseapplication should be directed to the FCC at 888-CALL-FCC. Additional information isavailable on the FCC’s website at www.fcc.gov.NOTEEven if you operate this radio on FRS (Family Radio Service) channels at lowpower (1 watt), you are required to have an FCC license. Because this radiooperates in the 1 to 5 watt GMRS power range all GMRS rules apply and willrequire you have a GMRS license even for FRS (Family Radio Service)communication. Normal FRS only radios operate at a maximum power of 1/2 watt (500 milliwatt) power and have an integral (non-detachable) antenna.GMRS Radio ProtocolsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 28
29Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®GMRS/FRS FrequencyAllocation and CompatibilityGMRS/FRS Frequency Allocation and Compatibility •The channel numbers in the GMRS Mode on the MR HH425LI model are designedto “match” the channels on Cobra and other GMRS radios manufactured over thelast few years.StandardGMRS/FRS MR HH425LI Service Type Frequency (MHz)Channels Channels1 1 GMRS/FRS 462.56252 2 GMRS/FRS 462.58753 3 GMRS/FRS 462.61254 4 GMRS/FRS 462.63755 5 GMRS/FRS 462.66256 6 GMRS/FRS 462.68757 7 GMRS/FRS 462.71258 Not Available FRS 467.56259 Not Available FRS 467.587510 Not Available FRS 467.612511 Not Available FRS 467.637512 Not Available FRS 467.662513 Not Available FRS 467.687514 Not Available FRS 467.712515 15 GMRS 462.550016 16 GMRS 462.575017 17 GMRS 462.600018 18 GMRS 462.625019 19 GMRS 462.650020 20 GMRS 462.675021 21 GMRS 462.700022 22 GMRS 462.7250NOTEOlder Cobra GMRS (non dual band) models with only 15 Channels maydesignate different channel numbers for the same frequency. For example, anolder Cobra 15 Channel GMRS model would need to be tuned to Channel 11 inorder to communicate with a 22 Channel GMRS tuned to Channel 15. Pleaseuse the manual for that product to match a frequency chart/map in this section.GMRS Radio ProtocolsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 29
30 EnglishNOAA Weather Channels andAlertNOAA 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. Smart boaters keep an eye on safety and anear to the 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 oron 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/SAME Weather AlertsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 30
31Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®NOAA Test Alert SystemNOAA 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.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 NOAANOAA/SAME Weather AlertsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 31
32 EnglishSpecific Area MessageEncoding (SAME) AlertsSpecific Area Message Encoding (SAME) Alerts •The MR HH425LI radio is capable of receiving Specific Area Message Encoding(SAME) Alerts. During an NWR weather SAME alert, a code for your specificlocation will alert you to deteriorating weather conditions in a preprogrammedspecific area or a specific event such as a Severe Thunderstorm Watch or TropicalStorm Warning. There are over 900 National Weather Radio (NWR) service stationsusing broadcast frequencies that transmit SAME alerts. You must program yourcounty, parish or independent city or marine area into the radio. NOTEDO NOT program your radio for a louder or clearer station not designated asa SAME channel. You will not receive the local desired alerts.The NWR service will then alert you only of weather and other emergencies for allareas programmed on this radio.• When an NWR office broadcasts a warning, watch or non-weather emergency,it also broadcasts a digital SAME code that may be heard as a very brief staticburst, depending on the characteristics of the radio. This SAME code containsthe type of message; county(s) affected, and message expiration time. • If programmed correctly, this radio will turn to the WX channel so you canlisten to the NWR SAME message. You will hear the 1050 Hz warning alarmtone as an attention signal, followed by the broadcast message. • At the end of the broadcast message, you will hear a brief digital end-of-message static burst followed by a resumption of the NWR broadcast cycle.NOTESAME coverage areas are defined within the “NWR Broadcast Service Area”and are comprised of named counties, boroughs, metropolitan areas orportions thereof. NWR “Broadcast Service Area” coverage by State can befound at http://www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr or by telephone at 1-888-NWRSAME(1-888-697-7263). The information at the following website,http://www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr/indexnw.htm#sametable, will help to programthe SAME alert county codes and respective frequencies into this radio. Thissite also lists SAME code Marine zones for bounded and named water areas.NOAA/SAME Weather AlertsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 32
33Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Included in this PackageIncluded in this Package •You should find all of the following items in the package with your CobraMarineVHF/GMRS radio:InstallationRadio Wrist Strap Drop-In Battery ChargerDual Band Antenna 120V Battery Charger Power Cord Lithium-Ion Battery Pack12V Battery Charger Power Cord Operating Instruction Manual Spring-Loaded Belt ClipAlkaline Battery TrayMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 33
34 EnglishAntenna, Wrist Strap and Belt ClipAntenna, Wrist Strap and Belt Clip •Antenna InstallationThe flexible antenna for the radio is shipped separately in the package and must be attached before you use the radio.1. Align the base of the antenna with the socket in the top of the radio.2. Screw it all the way into the socket. Be sure that the seal seats properly.NOTICE Operating the radio without the antenna in place may damage the unit. The radio is not waterproof until the antenna and battery pack are in place with their seals properly seated.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 yourbelt.1. Press open the belt clip, slide it over the belt and releasethe clip.2. Insert the round guide on the back of the radio into theguide channel on the back of the belt clip. You must havethe radio upside-down, as shown, to remove it from thebelt clip.3. Once the knob has been inserted all the way into the belt clip channel, the radio will swing freely while being securely retained.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsInstallationInstall AntennaWrist StrapBelt Clip Secured to BeltInsert Knob onto Belt ClipSecure RadioMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 34
Introduction35Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Batteries and ChargerInstallationBatteries and Charger •The radio is shipped with a sealed lithium-ion (LiON) batterypack (P/N CM 110-006) that is rechargeable. WARNINGThe charger provided with this radio is only to beused to charge the battery pack provided. Do Notcharge any other type of batteries in the charger asfire, explosion or battery damage will occur. Avoiding extreme room temperatures will also helpprolong the life of the battery pack for the radio. When your rechargeable batteries begin to discharge tooquickly, it is time to install a new battery pack. Your radiowill also operate with six (6) high-quality AA alkalinebatteries, using the AA alkaline battery tray (provided withthis radio).Installing the Battery Pack1. Position the battery pack to line up the three (3) externalalignment tabs to the alignment slots in the radio.2. Engage the battery pack into the radio until battery packis fully seated against the radio housing.3. Pivot the locking tab up until it snaps into place on theback of the battery pack.Lithium-Ion Battery BackInstall Battery PackMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 35
36 EnglishIntroduction Batteries and ChargerInitial ChargeThe Cobra-provided lithium-ion (LiON) battery pack may becharged at home, in a car or in a boat using the appropriate12V or 120V power cord with the charger.1. Insert one (1) of the power cords into the back of thedrop-in charger.2. Insert the other end of the power cord into theappropriate 12V or 120V power source.3. Remove the spacer from the charger and insert the entireradio into the charger. The metal charge contacts on theradio will contact the mating prongs in the charger totransfer the charging current.4. Observe that the red light on the front of the chargerglows to indicate that the battery pack is properly seatedand the charger is operating.5. Allow the batteries to charge for three (3) to four (4)hours before use. The light will change back to greenwhen the battery is fully charged.WARNINGOnly the rechargeable lithium-ion (LiON) battery packcan be recharged. You MUST use one of the chargingdevices provided with this radio. Do not substituteany other type of charging adapter or charger basefor this radio. Battery damage, fire or explosion mayresult. It is equally important to prevent the lithium-ion (LiON) battery pack from freezing to obtain bestperformance from the battery pack.NOTEIf the drop-in charger is used on a boat, Cobrarecommends you attach it to a horizontal shelf orvertical bulkhead (using the screw holes provided) toprevent possible damage due to the boat rolling orpitching. The charging base has been designed tohold the battery pack in place during rough seaconditions.InstallationInitial Battery ChargePower SourcesRemove Charger SpacerMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 36
Introduction37Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Batteries and ChargerInstallationTo Remove Battery Pack from Radio1. Pivot the locking tab off of the back of the battery pack tounlock.2. Lift the bottom of the battery pack slightly to remove itfrom the radio housing.3. Pull battery pack out of the radio housing.NOTEThe lithium-ion (LiON) battery pack can also becharged in the battery charger without being installedin the radio. Insert the spacer into the battery chargerto support the battery pack during this chargingprocess. Follow the same procedures in “InitialCharge” to charge the battery pack.NOTICELithium-ion (LiON) batteries are toxic. Please disposeof properly. Some marine suppliers accept old batterypacks for recycling and some municipal wastedisposal agencies have special provisions for batterydisposal.Alkaline BatteriesThere is an alkaline battery tray (P/N CM 110-011) providedwith this radio. The alkaline battery tray is provided as abackup or “Emergency” power source should the batterypack run low on power and needs to be recharged. Theradio will transmit at full power when using six (6) new AAAlkaline batteries.WARNINGNever attempt to recharge alkaline batteries. They arenot made to be recharged, and should be disposed ofin a proper manner.Alkaline Battery TrayLocking TabBattery Pack Charging OnlyMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 37
38 EnglishIntroduction Batteries and ChargerMaintaining 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 drop-in charger provided by Cobra. Donot use the charger with alkaline batteries; only thelithium-ion (LiON) battery pack is rechargeable. Spentalkaline batteries must be discarded and replaced.It is a good idea to keep a set of fresh, high-quality AAalkaline batteries with your radio. Should the rechargeablebattery pack become discharged and no electrical powersource is available, you can insert the alkaline battery traywith fresh alkaline batteries and continue to use your radio.NOTESome radios with LiON batteries have AA or AAAbattery packs which only allow low power transmit.The optional AA battery tray for the MR HH425LI anda fresh set of alkaline batteries will allow for fullpower emergency transmissions.InstallationFully ChargedPartially ChargedFully DischargedMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:37 PM Page 38
39Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Getting 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 Functions (All Bands)The following procedures define common operatingfunctions of the radio when in either Marine Standby,GMRS Standby or Weather (WX) Standby modes.Power/Volume/Squelch ControlsPower On/Off ControlThe On/Off/Volume control is located at the upper rightside of the radio. Turning the On/Off/Volume controlpast the detent position will turn the radio On or Off.Volume ControlVolume is controlled by turning the On/Off/Volumecontrol.To increase the volume, turn the On/Off/Volumecontrol clockwise.To decrease the volume, turn the On/Off/Volumecontrol counterclockwise.Getting StartedMR HH425LI RadioOperating Your RadioOn/Off Volume Control(Clockwise)On/Off Volume Control(Counterclockwise)MRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:37 PM Page 39
40 EnglishIntroduction Getting StartedSquelch ControlSquelch is controlled by turning the lower rotaryconcentric knob located directly below theOn/Off/Volume control.With the power On, turn the knob counterclockwiseuntil you hear a hissing sound, then turn the knobclockwise until the hissing stops. This will establish a“Baseline” squelch. By turning the knob further in aclockwise direction, you will filter weak and medium-strength signals. By turning the knob in acounterclockwise direction (further from your baselinesetting), you will receive weaker signals. Squelchcontrol filters weak signals and radio frequency (RF)noise so that you will clearly hear the signals you want.NOTEIf the Squelch control is set so that you can hear acontinuous hissing sound, the Memory Scan, Tri-Watch Scan, CTCSS Scan and DCS Scan functionswill be blocked.Radio Speaker and MicrophoneThe internal Radio Speaker and Microphone are located onthe bottom front face of the radio below the lower controlbuttons.An optional Speaker/Microphone port is located at the topof the radio between the antenna and the Power/Volume/Squelch control. Unthread the Speaker/Microphone portcover to access and install an optional speaker ormicrophone into this port. Talk ButtonPress and hold the Talk button to transmit messages.Release the Talk button to stop transmitting.Operating Your RadioSquelch ControlSpeaker/Mic PortTalk ButtonMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:37 PM Page 40
Introduction41Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Getting 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 alreadyOn, another press of the Backlight/Key Lock buttonwill turn it Off.Key LockTo prevent accidental changes to your settings, youcan lock all of the following buttons:Channel Up ButtonChannel Down ButtonSCAN ButtonMEM/ESC ButtonWX/H-M-L Button16/9 ButtonTRI-WATCH ButtonBAND ButtonREW Button Call/Enter/Setup ButtonTo Lock or Unlock the Buttons:Press and hold the Backlight/Key Lock button for two(2) seconds. The Key Lock icon will appear ordisappear in the LCD. When Key Lock is On, pressingany of the listed buttons on the front of the radio willresult in a three (3) beep error message.Both the Backlight/Key Lock button and the Talkbutton are active — you can Receive (Rx) or Transmit(Tx) a message with Key Lock On, but you cannotchange the channel.Operating Your RadioBacklight/Key Lock ButtonKey Locked ButtonsKey Lock IconMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:37 PM Page 41
42 EnglishIntroduction Getting StartedChannel Up/Down ButtonYour radio will Receive (Rx) and Transmit (Tx) VHF andGMRS signals on the channel indicated on the LCD display.You can change the channel at any time using the ChannelUp/Down button.To Change Channels:Press the Channel Up/Down button.If you are on Channel 88, pressing the Channel Upbutton will advance to Channel 01. If you are onChannel 01, pressing the Channel Down button willadvance to Channel 88.You can press and hold the Channel Up/Down buttonfor fast advance. The beep sound will occur only at thefirst press of the button and not during fast advance.If the new channel selected is restricted to low power,the radio will automatically switch to Low Power modeand the Low Power icon will appear on the LCD.If the radio is in the Key Lock mode, the channel willnot change and the three (3) beep error signal willsound.SCAN ButtonPress and release the SCAN button to scan all channels. TheSCAN icon will display on the LCD display. Scanning beginsat lower channels, and scans to higher channels. PressChannel Up/Down button to change the scan direction.When a signal is received in SCAN mode, the radio willpause 10 seconds before resuming SCAN operation. Thescan will stop when the Talk button is pressed.In Memory mode, press and release the SCAN button toscan all memory channels. Because the unit is already in theMemory Channel mode, only the channels in the memorybank will be displayed. NOTEMemory channels need to be saved to effectivelyenter the Memory Channel mode and scan allmemory channels.Operating Your RadioSCAN ButtonChannel Up/Down ButtonCurrently On Channel 88MRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:37 PM Page 42
Introduction43Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Getting StartedHigh/Medium/Low (H-M-L) Power ButtonYour radio can transmit selectively at 1, 3 or 5 watts ofpower. Cobra suggests you maintain the low power settingfor short-range communications. You will conserve batterylife and avoid overpowering nearby stations with a lowpower setting signal. Use the high power setting for long-range communications or when you do not receive aresponse to a signal sent at 1 watt.To Toggle Between H-M-L Power Modes:Press the H-M-L Power button. The LCD will showwhich mode is in effect. Some channels are restrictedfor a maximum use of 1 watt. Your radio willautomatically set the power to Low Power mode whenyou select those channels. NOTESome channels, frequency bands and countries ofuse might not be able to operate in High Powermode. For example, units sold in Canada will nottransmit using the 5 watt High Power mode.Call /Enter/Setup ButtonThe Call/Enter/Setup button has multiple functions. It isgenerally used in the following ways:Press and release to transmit your unique Call Tonesignal to another radio.Press and hold to enter any Setup menu.Functions as an ENTER button when making a selectionin any Setup menu.Operating Your RadioH-M-L Power ButtonCall/Enter/Setup ButtonMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:37 PM Page 43
44 EnglishIntroduction Setup Mode ProgrammingSetup 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 any of the Setup modes (Marine (VHF), GMRS or WX Alert), if youstop programming for longer than 15 seconds, your entry will be saved and the radio will go back to the specific Standby mode that you were in when youstarted programming. When you return to Setup mode and continue programming you will see the last “value” displayed. While in any 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. Pressand hold the Call/Enter/Setup button for two (2) seconds to enter the programmingmode.Marine (VHF) Mode ProgrammingOperating Your RadioMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:37 PM Page 44
Introduction45Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Setup Mode ProgrammingUSA/International/Canada Channel MapsThree (3) sets of VHF Channel Maps have been establishedfor marine use in the USA, Canada and the rest of the world(International). Most of the channels are the same for allthree (3) maps, but there are definite differences (see tableon pages 20 through 27). Your radio has all three (3) mapsbuilt into it and will operate correctly in whichever area youchoose.To Set Channel Map Operating Area:1. The Channel Map mode is the first mode thatbegins the Marine (VHF) Setup programming.2. U, Iand Cicons will display, with the current setting(the Uicon is the default) flashing.3. Press Channel Up/Down button to select the U, IorCicon.4. Press Call/Enter/Setup button to save this entry andmove to the next setup programming mode.NOTEOne or two of the channel maps might have beendisabled for sales of this radio in some countries.Operating Your RadioSet Channel MapChannel Up/Down ButtonActive Channel Map IconMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:37 PM Page 45
46 EnglishIntroduction Setup Mode ProgrammingVoice Activated Transmit (VOX) ModeIn VOX mode, your radio can be used “hands-free,”automatically transmitting when you speak. You can also setthe VOX sensitivity level to fit the volume of your voice andavoid transmissions triggered by background noise.To turn VOX Mode On or Off:1. Display will show VOX icon and ON or OFF flashing.2. Press Channel Up/Down button to select ON orOFF.3. Press Call/Enter/Setup button to save this entry andmove to the next setup programming mode.To set VOX Sensitivity Level:1. The display will show LE (level). VOX icon and 05will be flashing.NOTEVOX sensitivity level is only visible when VOX is On.2. Press Channel Up/Down button to change volumelevel of your choice. Remember, this selection isyour voice sensitivity level during hands-freeoperation.05 - indicates a Low (quiet) voice setting.03 - indicates a Medium voice setting. 01 - indicates a High (loud) voice setting.3. Press Call/Enter/Setup button to save this entry andmove to the next setup programming mode.NOTEVOX will be turned Off automatically when the radiois turned Off. This will avoid accidental transmissions.NOTEOnce set, this is a global setting when in all radiomodes.Operating Your RadioVOX ModeVOX LevelMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:37 PM Page 46
Introduction47Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Setup Mode ProgrammingVibrAlert®ModeIn VibrAlert®mode, your radio can alert you to incomingsignals by sounding an audible call tone, a silent vibration orboth.NOTEVOX will be turned Off automatically when the radiois turned Off. This will avoid accidental transmissions.To set VibrAlert®:1. The display will show either the Vibrate icon (shakebars), Call Tone icon (bell shape) or a combinationVibrAlert®icon. 2. The present setting of either, 01, 02 or 03 will beflashing.3. Press Channel Up/Down button to select one of thefollowing:01 = VibrAlert®On (both shake bars and bell shape).02 = Vibrate On (shake bars only).03 = Call Tone Only On (bell shape only).4. Press Call/Enter/Setup button to save this entry andmove to the next setup programming mode.NOTEOnce set, this is a global setting when in all radiomodes.Operating Your RadioVibrAlert®Tone AlertMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:37 PM Page 47
48 EnglishIntroduction Setup Mode ProgrammingCall Tone ModeIn Call Tone mode, your radio can alert you to incomingsignals by sounding an audible call tone, a silent vibration orboth. This setting will also allow you to transmit a uniqueCall Tone alert to identify your radio when you transmitmessages. You can select from one of 10 different Call Tonesignals.To Set Call Tone:1. From the previous press of the Call/Enter/Setupbutton, the LCD will display the letter “C” and thecurrent Call Tone number (01 through 10).2. Press the Channel Up/Down button to select adifferent Call Tone. An example of each call tone willsound for 1.5 seconds.3. Press Call/Enter/Setup button to save this entry andmove to the next setup programming mode.NOTECall Tones are not usually used for Marine VHFcommunications. We allow you to turn it On for yourunique communication needs.NOTEOnce set, this is a global setting when in all radiomodes.Operating Your RadioCall Tone ModeMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:37 PM Page 48
Introduction49Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Setup 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 button to select ON orOFF. ROG will be displayed when On.3. Press Call/Enter/Setup button to save this entry andmove to the next setup programming mode.NOTEOnce set, this is a global setting when in all radiomodes.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 OFFflashing.2. Press Channel Up/Down button to select ON orOFF.3. Press Call/Enter/Setup button to save entry.NOTEOnce set, this is a global setting when in all radiomodes.You have now ended Marine (VHF) Setup programmingmode and will enter Marine Standby mode.Operating Your RadioRoger Beep ModeKey Tone ModeMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:37 PM Page 49
50 EnglishIntroduction Setup Mode ProgrammingThe GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) feature is a land-mobile service available for short-distance, two-waycommunications in the USA. You must have a valid FCClicense to communicate on these channels (see page 28).Start from GMRS Standby mode to begin GMRS Setupprogramming. Press and hold the Call/Enter/Setup buttonfor two (2) seconds to enter the programming mode.CTCSS and DCS Coding ModeContinuous Tone Controlled Squelch System (CTCSS) andDigital Coded Squelch (DCS) coding are used in two-wayradio systems. These are sub-audible frequencies or digitaltones that are sent continuously with speech to engageother radios with this feature. This feature is generally usedbetween talk groups on shared channels. Only radios withthe same subcode set will hear your transmission.To Set CTCSS Code Entry:1. The CTCSS code entry mode is the first mode thatbegins the GMRS Setup programming.2. Display will show CTCSS icon and OFF iconflashing.NOTEIf CTCSS was previously set to a Code number, display will show the current GMRS channel and flash the CTCSS icon and Code number.3. Codes begin at 01 and go to 38, followed by OFF,and return back to 01 again. The last used GMRSchannel will be shown in the large digit display.NOTEIf CTCSS is On, then DCS must be Off. If DCS is On, then CTCSS must be Off.4. Press Channel Up/Down button to change codenumber, or press and hold Channel Up/Downbutton to rapid advance (scroll).5. Press Call/Enter/Setup button to save entry andmove to the next setup programming mode.GMRS Mode ProgrammingOperating Your RadioGMRS ModeCTCSS Code EntryCTCSS Code NumberMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:37 PM Page 50

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