Cobra Electronics MRHH425 Handheld Marine Transceiver with GMRS User Manual

Cobra Electronics Corporation Handheld Marine Transceiver with GMRS

Contents

users manual 1

A1 English
Our Thanks to You and
Customer Assistance
Introduction
VHF MARINE RADIO
MR HH425LI VP
Printed in China Part No. 480-344-P
Owner’s Manual
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®English
Our Thanks to You •
Thank you for purchasing a CobraMarine®VHF/GMRS Dual Band radio. Properly
used, this Cobra®product will give you many years of reliable service.
How Your CobraMarine VHF/GMRS Radio Works
This dual band radio is a battery-powered portable transceiver for use afloat or on
land. In Marine VHF mode it gives you two-way vessel-to-vessel and vessel-to-
shore station communications, primarily for safety and secondarily for navigation
and operational purposes. In GMRS mode it allows you to reach other GMRS
capable radios for short-distance two-way land mobile communication. This mode is
normally used for small group communication such as in a general residential area
or during recreational group outings. Note: GMRS radio usage requires an FCC
License.
Besides two-way communications, the radio can provide quick access to receive
all the NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) weather
channels and alert you to weather emergencies with a tone on a weather channel
you 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 further
assistance 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, 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 Dealer
Customer Assistance
©2007 Cobra Electronics Corporation™
6500 West Cortland Street
Chicago, Illinois 60707 USA
www.cobra.com
MRHH425VPCover.qxp:QXP-1058736909.qxp 10/26/06 1:39 PM Page A1
A1 English
Our Thanks to You and
Customer Assistance
Introduction
VHF MARINE RADIO
MR HH425LI VP
Printed in China Part No. 480-344-P
Owner’s Manual
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®English
Our Thanks to You •
Thank you for purchasing a CobraMarine®VHF/GMRS Dual Band radio. Properly
used, this Cobra®product will give you many years of reliable service.
How Your CobraMarine VHF/GMRS Radio Works
This dual band radio is a battery-powered portable transceiver for use afloat or on
land. In Marine VHF mode it gives you two-way vessel-to-vessel and vessel-to-
shore station communications, primarily for safety and secondarily for navigation
and operational purposes. In GMRS mode it allows you to reach other GMRS
capable radios for short-distance two-way land mobile communication. This mode is
normally used for small group communication such as in a general residential area
or during recreational group outings. Note: GMRS radio usage requires an FCC
License.
Besides two-way communications, the radio can provide quick access to receive
all the NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) weather
channels and alert you to weather emergencies with a tone on a weather channel
you 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 further
assistance 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, 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 Dealer
Customer Assistance
©2007 Cobra Electronics Corporation™
6500 West Cortland Street
Chicago, Illinois 60707 USA
www.cobra.com
MRHH425VPCover.qxp:QXP-1058736909.qxp 10/26/06 1:39 PM Page A1
A3 English
Backlit LCD Screen
and Product Features
Introduction
A2 English
Radio Controls
and Indicators
Introduction
Backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen •
Instant
Channel
16/9 Button
SCAN
Button
Squelch
Control
Call/Enter
Button
Wrist
Strap
Connector
ON/OFF/Volume
Control
External Speaker/
Microphone
Cover
Dual Band
Antenna
Tri-Watch
Button
Backlight/
Key Lock
Button
Memory/Escape
Button
Channel Up
Button
Channel
Down
Button
UIC Active Channel Map Icons
Roger Beep Icon
Battery Power Icon
Simplex Operation Icon
Voice Activated Transmit Icon
Memory Channel
Memory Channel Icon
Call Tone VibrAlert®Icon
Weather Alert Icon
Weather Icon
Low/Medium/High Power Icons
Tri-Watch Icon
Frequency
Band Icons
Transmit and Receive Icons
Button Lock Icon
Scan Icon
Key Tone Icon
Power
Level/Weather
Button
Speaker
USA/International/Canada Channels
Allows operation on any of the three
different VHF channel maps established
for these areas. Instant access to all
Marine VHF channels, 24 hours a day.
15 GMRS Channels
Seven (7) shared with GMRS/FRS and
eight (8) GMRS only.
All NOAA Weather Channels
Instant access to all National Weather
Channels, 24 hours a day.
Emergency Weather Alert
Can alert you with an audible tone
and visual alarm if threatening weather
is nearby.
Submersible to JIS7 Standards
Waterproof to 3.3 ft (1 m) of water
for 30 minutes.
Button/Key Lock
Prevents accidental setting changes
when button lock is set.
Bands
Exclusive dual VHF (Very High
Frequency) and GMRS (General Mobile
Radio Service) bands allow you to use
different frequencies while using this
radio either on land or water. VHF can be
used for two-way vessel-to-vessel and
vessel-to-shore station communications.
GMRS can be used for small group
communication such as in a general
residential area or during recreational
group outings. Note: GMRS radio usage
requires an FCC License.
Power Settings
Selectable power settings produce 1, 3
or 5* watts of output power for near or
distant calling.
121 Privacy Codes
Allows semi-secure communications,
creating up to 1815 privacy combinations
(38 CTCSS codes-83 DCS codes).
* Units sold in Canada will not transmit with 5
watts of power on GMRS frequencies in
Canada.
Product Features •
Belt Clip
Engagement
Backlit
LCD
Screen
Push to
Talk
Button
Band
(VHF/GMRS)
Button
Rewind-Say-Again™
Button
Rewind Icon
Active Channel
Numbers
Microphone
Battery
Battery
Clip
CTCSS and DCS Subcodes
MRHH425VPCover.qxp:QXP-1058736909.qxp 10/26/06 1:39 PM Page A2
A3 English
Backlit LCD Screen
and Product Features
Introduction
A2 English
Radio Controls
and Indicators
Introduction
Backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen •
Instant
Channel
16/9 Button
SCAN
Button
Squelch
Control
Call/Enter
Button
Wrist
Strap
Connector
ON/OFF/Volume
Control
External Speaker/
Microphone
Cover
Dual Band
Antenna
Tri-Watch
Button
Backlight/
Key Lock
Button
Memory/Escape
Button
Channel Up
Button
Channel
Down
Button
UIC Active Channel Map Icons
Roger Beep Icon
Battery Power Icon
Simplex Operation Icon
Voice Activated Transmit Icon
Memory Channel
Memory Channel Icon
Call Tone VibrAlert®Icon
Weather Alert Icon
Weather Icon
Low/Medium/High Power Icons
Tri-Watch Icon
Frequency
Band Icons
Transmit and Receive Icons
Button Lock Icon
Scan Icon
Key Tone Icon
Power
Level/Weather
Button
Speaker
USA/International/Canada Channels
Allows operation on any of the three
different VHF channel maps established
for these areas. Instant access to all
Marine VHF channels, 24 hours a day.
15 GMRS Channels
Seven (7) shared with GMRS/FRS and
eight (8) GMRS only.
All NOAA Weather Channels
Instant access to all National Weather
Channels, 24 hours a day.
Emergency Weather Alert
Can alert you with an audible tone
and visual alarm if threatening weather
is nearby.
Submersible to JIS7 Standards
Waterproof to 3.3 ft (1 m) of water
for 30 minutes.
Button/Key Lock
Prevents accidental setting changes
when button lock is set.
Bands
Exclusive dual VHF (Very High
Frequency) and GMRS (General Mobile
Radio Service) bands allow you to use
different frequencies while using this
radio either on land or water. VHF can be
used for two-way vessel-to-vessel and
vessel-to-shore station communications.
GMRS can be used for small group
communication such as in a general
residential area or during recreational
group outings. Note: GMRS radio usage
requires an FCC License.
Power Settings
Selectable power settings produce 1, 3
or 5* watts of output power for near or
distant calling.
121 Privacy Codes
Allows semi-secure communications,
creating up to 1815 privacy combinations
(38 CTCSS codes-83 DCS codes).
* Units sold in Canada will not transmit with 5
watts of power on GMRS frequencies in
Canada.
Product Features •
Belt Clip
Engagement
Backlit
LCD
Screen
Push to
Talk
Button
Band
(VHF/GMRS)
Button
Rewind-Say-Again™
Button
Rewind Icon
Active Channel
Numbers
Microphone
Battery
Battery
Clip
CTCSS and DCS Subcodes
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Product Features
Introduction
Channel Scan/Memory Scan
Use to scan through all channels or all
selected memory locations to find
conversations in progress.
Instant Channel 16/9
Provides instant access to priority
Channel 16 and calling Channel 9.
Tri-Watch
Lets you monitor three (3) channels
at once — Channel 16 and two (2)
user-programmable channels.
Lithium-Ion Rechargeable
Battery Pack
Provides extended operating time
compared to alkaline batteries with no
memory effect.
120V/12V Charger Included
Use to charge battery pack in the radio,
at home, in a car or in a boat.
Rapid-Charge Locking Desktop Charger
Allows charging of batteries at home, car
or boat. Vertical or horizontal mounting.
Cobra Exclusive Rewind-Say-Again™
A dedicated button allows user to replay
up to the last 20 seconds of audio. Press
the dedicated rewind button and Cobra
VHF will replay the last 20 seconds of the
audio from your VHF.
Call Tones (Selectable)
10 selectable call tones.
Hands-Free Operation Voice Activation
(VOX)
“Hands-Free” automatic transmission
when you speak.
Emergency Weather Alert with/SAME
Receive NOAA alerts when threatening
weather is nearby. SAME alerts provide
notification of local severe weather
conditions.
Speaker/Mic Jack
Allows connecting optional Cobra Lapel
Speaker/Mic and other Cobra
accessories.
Unlimited Memory Channels
Allows programming of unlimited VHF
and GMRS memory channels.
Signal Strength Meter
Shows the strength of incoming or
outgoing signals.
Illuminated Buttons
Allows high visibility of all function
buttons.
Roger Beep Tone (Selectable)
Confirmation tone indicates the
completion of the user’s transmission
and signals to others it is clear to talk. On
or Off selectable.
Patented VibrAlert®
Provides a silent alert for incoming calls.
Ideal for noisy or all-quiet environments.
Product Features (continued) •
A4 English
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Introduction
1
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®
Introduction Table of Contents
Introduction
Our Thanks to You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1
Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1
Radio Controls and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2
Backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3
Product Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3
Important Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Recommendations for Marine Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
VHF Marine FCC Licensing Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
VHF Marine Radio Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
VHF Marine Voice Calling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
VHF Marine Radiotelephone Calls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
VHF Marine Emergency Messages and Distress Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . 13
VHF Marine Channel Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
GMRS Radio Protocols
GMRS Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
GMRS FCC Licensing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
GMRS/FRS Frequency Allocation and Compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
NOAA/SAME Weather Alerts
NOAA Weather Channels and Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
NOAA Test Alert System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) Alerts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Installation
Included in this Package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Antenna, Wrist Strap and Belt Clip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Batteries and Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Operating Your Radio
Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Setup Mode Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
Standby/Receive and Transmit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Advanced Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Warranty and Trademark Acknowledgement
Limited 3-Year Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Trademark Acknowledgement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Customer Service
Product Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
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2English
Introduction Important Safety Information
Introduction
Important Safety Information •
Before installing and using your CobraMarine VHF/GMRS Dual Band radio, please
read these general precautions and warnings.
Warning and Notice Statements
To 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 WARNING and 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 Information
This 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 of
both the hazards and the ways to minimize those hazards. This radio is NOT
intended 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/GMRS Dual Band radio also
complies with the following 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 Frequency Electromagnetic
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.
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Introduction
3
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®
Introduction Important Safety Information
The following WARNINGS and NOTICE information will make you aware of RF
exposure hazards and how to ensure you operate the radio within the FCC RF
exposure limits established for the radio.
WARNINGS
Your 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 when transmitting
and KEEP yourself and all others on your vessel the required distance away from
the antenna while transmitting. See page 33 in the antenna 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 directly to AC power. It can be a fire hazard, may
cause an electric shock and may damage the transceiver.
NEVER mount 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 RF exposure limits or create other dangerous conditions.
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4English
Introduction Important Safety Information
Introduction
NOTICE
Your radio is waterproof only when the antenna and 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 a lithium-ion (LiON) rechargeable battery pack.
Use only the Cobra charger to recharge lithium-ion (LiON) batteries in the radio.
Do not short circuit the battery pack.
When replacing the batteries, dispose of the old batteries properly. Batteries may
explode if disposed of in a fire.
Changes or modifications to your radio MAY VOID its compliance with FCC (Federal
Communications Commission) rules and make it illegal to use.
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Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®
Introduction
Recommendations for
Marine Communication
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 nearshore voyages. If
the 5 watt maximum output of your radio is not sufficient for the distances you
travel from the coast, consider installing a CobraMarine fixed mount radio with up to
25 watts of output power. (Visit www.cobra.com or your local dealer for model
availability.)
If traveling far offshore, you should consider adding even more powerful radio
equipment 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 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 on board where cellular coverage
is available — to allow social conversations and keep the marine frequencies
uncluttered and available for their intended uses.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
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6English
Introduction
VHF Marine FCC Licensing
Information
VHF Marine FCC Licensing Information •
CobraMarine VHF radios comply with the FCC (Federal Communications
Commission) requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Service.
The radio operates on all currently allocated marine channels and is switchable for
use according to U.S.A., International or Canadian regulations. It features instant
access to emergency Channel 16 and calling Channel 9 as well as NOAA (National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) All Hazards Radio with Alert that can be
accessed by pressing one (1) button.
Licensed users will be issued a “Call Sign” by the FCC, which should be used for
station identification when operating the radio.
Station License
An 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 Position
Indicating 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 an HF single side band radiotelephone, carrying a marine satellite terminal
must obtain a station license.
For licensing information and application forms, please call the FCC Hotline at 800-
418-FORM. Request form #159 and form #605. Questions regarding the license
application should be directed to the FCC at 888-CALL-FCC. FCC license forms and
applications for ship and land applications can be downloaded through the Internet
at: www.fcc.gov.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
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Introduction
7
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®
VHF Marine FCC Licensing
Information
International Station License
If your vessel will be entering the sovereign waters of a country other than the
U.S.A. or Canada, you should contact that country’s communications regulatory
authority for licensing information.
Radio Call Sign
Currently, the FCC does not require recreational boaters to have a license. The
United States 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 License
You need a Radio Operator’s Certificate if your vessel is operated in Canadian waters.
Radio Operator training and certification is available from the Canadian Power
Squadron. Visit their website (http://www.cps-ecp.ca/english/newradiocard.html),
contact the nearest field office or write: Industry of Canada, Radio Regulatory
Branch, Attn: DOSP, 300 Slater Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0C8.
User Responsibility and Operating Locations
All users are responsible for observing domestic and foreign government regulations
and are subject to severe penalties for violations. The VHF frequencies on your radio
are reserved for marine use and require a special license to operate from land,
including when your boat is on its trailer.
NOTE
This 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 Protocols
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8English
Introduction
VHF Marine Radio
Procedures
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.
Power
Try 1 watt first if the station being called is within a few miles. If there is no answer,
switch to 3 watts and call again. You have the ability to go up to 5 watts of output
power to increase your calling distance. Remember, the lower wattage outputs will
conserve your battery and minimize interference to other users.
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 9
The use of Channel 16 is permitted for making initial contact (hailing) another
vessel. The limits on calling must be followed. Be reminded, Channel 16’s most
important function is for Emergency Messages. If for some reason, Channel 16 is
congested, Channel 9, especially in U.S. waters, may be used as the initial contact
(hailing) channel for non-emergency communication.
Limits on Calling
You 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 Channels
After 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 Identification
Identify, in English, your station by your FCC call sign, vessel name and the state
registration number, at both the beginning and at the end of the message.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
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Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®
VHF Marine Radio
Procedures
Prohibited Communications
You 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 particular
station) on Channel 16, except in an emergency or if you are testing your radio.
When you are on land.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
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10 English
VHF Marine Voice Calling
VHF Marine Voice Calling •
You are required to listen to Channel 16 while standing by. Channel 16 is the
distress and safety channel used for establishing initial contact with another station
and for emergency communication. The Coast Guard also monitors Channel 16 for
safety purposes for everyone on the water.
NOTE
Channel 9 may be used by recreational vessels for general-purpose calling. This
frequency should be used whenever possible to help relieve congestion on
Channel 16. The Coast Guard generally does not make urgent marine
information broadcasts or weather warnings on Channel 9. Boaters are still
asked to “keep watch” on Channel 16 whenever the radio is turned on and not
in use with another station.
To call another vessel or shore installation (e.g., lock or bridge tender):
Make sure your radio is On.
You are in standby listening mode on Channel 16. Make sure Channel 16 is not
being used.
When the channel is open (quiet), press the Talk button and call the vessel you
wish to speak to. Hold the radio or microphone 2 in. (5 cm) from your face and
speak clearly and distinctly in a normal voice tone. Say “name or station being
called,” “THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign].”
Once contact is made, you must leave Channel 16 and go to another working
channel. See channel listing on pages 18-19.
The vessel Corsair is calling the vessel Vagabond:
Corsair: “Vagabond, this is Corsair. Over.”
Vagabond: “Please switch and answer on Channel 68 (or any proper working
channel). Over.”
Corsair: “Switching to Channel 68. Over.”
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
For Example
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Introduction
11
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VHF Marine Voice Calling
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
If the other does not respond, wait two (2) minutes and repeat. You are permitted
to attempt contact three (3) times, two (2) minutes apart. If you still have not
made contact, wait 15 minutes before trying again.
After communications are completed, each vessel must sign off with its call sign
or vessel name and the word “out” and return to Channel 16.
NOTE
For best sound quality at the station you are calling, hold the microphone on
the front of the radio at least 2 in. (5 cm) from your mouth and slightly off to
one (1) side. Speak in a normal tone of voice.
NOTE
“Over and Out”
The most commonly misused procedure words are “over and out” within the
same transmission. “Over” means you expect a reply. “Out” means you are
finished and do not expect a reply.
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12 English
Introduction
VHF Marine
Radiotelephone Calls
VHF Marine Radiotelephone 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
18 through 27 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.
NOTICE
You may disclose privileged information during a radiotelephone call.
Keep in mind that your transmission is NOT private, as it is on a regular
telephone. Both sides of the conversation are being broadcast and can be
heard by anyone who has a radio and tunes to the channel you are using.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
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Introduction
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VHF Marine Emergency Messages
and Distress Procedure
VHF Marine Emergency 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,
and coordinates 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 experience
difficulties and before your situation becomes an emergency. Use the emergency
message procedures only after your situation has become grave or you are faced
with a sudden danger threatening life or property and requiring immediate help. Use
Channel 16 to communicate your emergency message. Make sure you transmit on
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 give you a
tow.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
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14 English
Introduction
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Marine Emergency Signals
The 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 or
important 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.
MAYDAY
PAN
SECURITE
VHF Marine Emergency Messages
and Distress Procedure
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Introduction
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If You Hear a Distress Call
You 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.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
VHF Marine Emergency Messages
and Distress Procedure
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Introduction
Marine Distress Procedure
Speak 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 Guard
can find you more quickly if you can transmit a signal for a rescue boat to hone in on.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
VHF Marine Emergency Messages
and Distress Procedure
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For Example
Introduction
17
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®
“Mayday — Mayday — Mayday”
“This is Corsair — Corsair — Corsair” [or “IL 1234 AB” 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 (4) adults, three (3) 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.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
VHF Marine Emergency Messages
and Distress Procedure
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VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
VHF 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 same
for all three (3) maps, but there are definite differences (see table on the following
pages). Your radio has all three (3) maps built into it and will operate correctly in
whichever area you choose.
The following is a brief outline of the channel assignments in the U.S.A.
Channel Map.
Distress, Safety, and Calling
Channel 16
Getting the attention of another station (calling) or in emergencies
(distress and safety).
Calling
Channel 9
General-purpose (non-emergency) calling by non-commercial vessels.
Recreational boaters are urged to use this channel to reduce congestion
on Channel 16.
Intership Safety
Channel 6
Ship-to-ship safety messages and for search and rescue messages to
Coast Guard ships and aircraft.
Coast Guard Liaison
Channel 22A
To talk to the Coast Guard or Canadian Coast Guard (non-emergency) after making
contact on Channel 16.
Non-Commercial
Channels 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.
Commercial
Channels 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 or
needs of the ship. Use Channels 8, 67, 72 and 88A only for ship-to-ship messages.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
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VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
Public 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 receive
telephone calls through these stations.
Port Operations
Channels 1A*, 5A*, 12*, 14*, 18, 19, 20A, 21, 22, 63A*, 65A, 66A, 73, 74, 75, 76,
77*, 79, 80, 81, 82
Used for directing the movement of ships in or near ports, locks or waterways.
Messages must be about operational handling, movement and safety of ships.
Navigational
Channels 13, 67
Channels are available to all vessels. Messages must be about navigation, including
passing or meeting other vessels. These are also the main working channels for
most locks and drawbridges. You must keep your messages short and power output
at no more than 1 watt.
Maritime Control
Channel 17
For 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 Calling
Channel 70
This channel is set aside for distress, safety and general calling using only digital
selective calling techniques. Voice communication is prohibited; your radio cannot
transmit voice messages on this channel.
Weather
Channels Wx 1 Thru 10
Receive-only channels for NOAA and Canadian weather broadcasts. You cannot
transmit 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 Protocols
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Introduction
VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Channel Channel Map Frequency Power
Number USA Int’l Canada Transmit Receive Limits
01 ••
156.050 160.650
01A •156.050 156.050
02 ••156.100 160.700
03 ••156.150 160.750
03A •156.150 156.150
04 •156.200 160.800
04A •156.200 156.200
05 •156.250 160.850
05A ••156.250 156.250
06 •••156.300 156.300
07 •156.350 160.950
07A ••156.350 156.350
08 •••156.400 156.400
09 •••156.450 156.450
10 •••156.500 156.500
11 •••156.550 156.550
12 •••156.600 156.600
13 •••
156.650 156.650 1 watt USA and CAN
14 •••156.700 156.700
15 •Rx Only 156.750
15 ••156.750 156.750 1 watt CAN and INT
16 •••156.800 156.800
17 •••156.850 156.850 1 watt USA and CAN
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VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Channel Use
01 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)
01A Port Operations and Commercial, VTS in selected areas
02 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)
03 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)
03A Government Only
04 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement
04A West Coast (Coast Guard Only); East Coast (Commercial Fishing)
05 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement
05A Port Operations, VTS in selected areas
06 Intership Safety
07 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement
07A Commercial
08 Commercial (Intership Only)
09 Boater Calling Channel, Non-Commercial (Recreational)
10 Commercial
11 Commercial, VTS in selected areas
12 Port Operations, VTS in selected areas
13 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 areas
15 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)
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