Standard Communications GX400 HF CB TRANSCEIVER User Manual
Standard Communications Pty Ltd HF CB TRANSCEIVER
Contents
- 1. User Manual
- 2. User Manual Addendum
User Manual
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GX400 27 MHz
MARINE RADIO
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
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2 INSTRUCTION MANUAL GX400
CONtENts
WARNING/SAFETY INFORMATION ..................................................................................................... 3
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................ 3
INSTALLATION GUIDELINES ............................................................................................................... 3
Interference with vehicle electronics ........................................................................................... 3
FEATURES ........................................................................................................................................ 4
SWITCHING BANDS .......................................................................................................................... 4
CONTROLS ........................................................................................................................................ 4
GENERAL OPERATION ....................................................................................................................... 6
Volume on/off ........................................................................................................................... 6
Squelch control ......................................................................................................................... 6
Channel selection ...................................................................................................................... 6
Display brightness ..................................................................................................................... 6
Transmitting .............................................................................................................................. 6
Noise Limiter ............................................................................................................................. 6
Scanning ................................................................................................................................... 7
Priority channels (PR1/PR2) ........................................................................................................ 8
Key Lock function ...................................................................................................................... 8
OPERATION ON THE AUSTRALIAN MARINE BAND ............................................................................. 8
Dual Watch (marine mode) ........................................................................................................ 8
Triple Watch (marine mode)....................................................................................................... 9
Triple Watch features ................................................................................................................ 9
Marine Band procedures .......................................................................................................... 10
Emergency procedures ............................................................................................................. 10
OPERATION ON THE CB BAND ........................................................................................................ 11
Dual Watch (CB mode) ............................................................................................................ 11
Triple Watch (CB mode) ........................................................................................................... 12
Triple Watch features .............................................................................................................. 12
INSTALLATION ................................................................................................................................ 14
General ................................................................................................................................... 14
Installing the unit .................................................................................................................... 14
DC connections ....................................................................................................................... 15
Antenna installation ................................................................................................................ 16
Extension speaker ................................................................................................................... 16
Noise suppression ................................................................................................................... 16
Disconnecting the microphone ................................................................................................. 17
SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................................................. 18
STANDARD COMMUNICATIONS WARRANTY AGAINST DEFECTS .......................................... 19
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GX400 INSTRUCTION MANUAL 3
WARNING/sAFEtY INFORMAtION
The GX400 is a radio transmitting device.
• Do not transmit near electrical blasting equipment or in explosive atmospheres.
• Do not allow children to operate a radio transmitter unsupervised.
• The antenna used for this radio must be properly installed and maintained and must
provide a separation distance of at least 34 cm (13.4 inches) from all persons and must
not be collocated or operated in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
Never transmit if any person is closer than the specified distance to the antenna.
• Changes or modifications to this product or use of accessories not expressly approved by
GME, or operation of this product in any way other than as provided in the GME Owner’s
Manual could void your authority to operate this product.
INtRODUCtION
Congratulations. You have just purchased one of the most technically advanced 27 MHz radios
in the world.
The GME GX400 is a 27 MHz AM radio that combines both Marine and Citizens Band functions
into the one radio. The GX400 has a number of enhanced features including fully user
programmable channel scanning, safety channel selection (Channel 88 in marine mode, Channel
8 in CB mode), speaker microphone, two Priority channels and a backlit Liquid Crystal Display
(LCD) with dimming function.
With its compact size and IPX7 design it can easily be installed into almost any mounting
location in your boat, motor vehicle, motor cycle etc.
Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure you get the best from the GX400’s features.
For users in New Zealand, United States of America, Canada, South Africa or Papua New Guinea,
please refer to amendment for local frequencies, channel allocations and licensing requirements.
INstALLAtION GUIDELINEs
• Do not install the radio near an airbag or in an area where an airbag may deploy. If an
airbag is obstructed by the radio, it may not deploy as expected. It could also propel the
radio with enough force to cause serious injury.
• Avoid touching the heat sink at the rear of the radio while the radio is in use. The heat sink
can become hot during prolonged use.
• Do not install the radio in front of a vehicle heater. The radio requires a cool airflow over the
rear heat sink when transmitting to maintain efficiency.
• Do not make unapproved modifications to the radio. Such modifications could void the
warranty and cause the radio to operate outside its approved specifications.
INTERFERENCE WITH VEHICLE ELECTRONICS
Some of the electronics in your vehicle may be susceptible to RF energy when your radio is
transmitting. Examples of electronic devices in your vehicle that could be affected are anti-lock/
anti-skid braking systems, cruise control systems and fuel injection systems. If your vehicle is
fitted with any of these systems please consult your vehicle manufacturer to determine whether
these systems are likely to be affected by your radio when it is transmitting. Careful selection of
mounting locations and good installation techniques should generally minimise any interference
to your vehicle electronics.
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4 INSTRUCTION MANUAL GX400
FEAtUREs
• Ingress protection to IPX7*
• LCD with lamp dimming function
• Rotary squelch control
• Channel scanning with memory
• Two user programmable Priority channels
• Dual Watch and Triple Watch functions
• Advanced noise limiter (NL) circuitry
• Surface mount technology
• User selection of Australian 27 MHz marine or 27 MHz CB channels
• Channel 88 safety channel for marine application (channel 8 for CB application)
*Refer: http://www2.gme.net.au/IPRatings
sWItCHING BANDs
The GX400 is capable of operating on both the Australian 27 MHz Marine Band and the
Australian 27 MHz Citizens Band. This makes your radio very versatile in that it can be used in
your vehicle, on a boat or even on a motorcycle or tractor.
When you first install your GX400, it should default to the 27 MHz Marine Band. When
operating on the Marine Band the radio will display channels 68 – 98 and the 88 key will default
to safety Channel 88.
To select the CB band, turn the radio OFF, then press and hold the DW key while turning the radio
on again. The radio will now display channels
1 – 40
and the 88 key will default to road Channel 8.
Repeat the sequence above to return to the Marine Band.
NOTE: Class licence 2001 prohibits the use of a Maritime Ship Station for land-based
communications. When the Marine Band is selected, the GX400 should only be used for
Ship-to-Ship, Ship-to-Shore or Shore-to-Ship communications.
CONtROLs
Front Panel
PR 1
PR 2
SCN
NL
DW
88
TW
SQL
VOL
27MHz MARINE TRANSCEIVER
Priority 1
Squelch
Priority 2
Dual Watch
Noise Limiter
Triple Watch
Scan
Channel Down
Channel Up
Safety Channel
Volume
Mic Socket
Power/
Dim
Key
Lock
M
B
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GX400 INSTRUCTION MANUAL 5
Rear Panel
Microphone Front Microphone Rear
Priority 1
Priority 2
Dual Watch Triple Watch
Key
Lock
Noise Limiter
Transmit
Safety
Channel Scan
Memory
Scan
RX Busy
Channel
Display
LCD
Rear Mic Socket
Antenna Socket
Extension Speaker
3.5 mm
Programming
2.5 mm (factory use only)
DC
Connector
Speaker
Bollard
Up
Scan
Down
Microphone
PTT
Safety
Channel
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6 INSTRUCTION MANUAL GX400
GENERAL OpERAtION
VOLUME ON/OFF
To turn the GX400 on, briefly press the key.
To adjust the volume, rotate the volume control. Rotate the volume control clockwise to increase
the volume or counter-clockwise to reduce the volume.
NOTE: At minimum volume setting there is still sufficient volume to be heard in a quiet cabin
environment.
To turn the GX400 off, press and hold the key again.
SQUELCH CONTROL
The squelch control is used to eliminate the background noise when there are no signals
present. To adjust the squelch, first rotate it fully counter-clockwise until the background noise
is heard, then slowly rotate it clockwise until the noise disappears. If there are signals on the
channel, you should wait until the channel is clear (or select a quiet channel) before adjusting
the squelch.
Once adjusted, the receiver will remain quiet as long as there are no signals present, but
an incoming signal will override the squelch and be heard in the speaker. As the control is
advanced further clockwise the squelch action is progressively increased and stronger incoming
signals are needed to override it. To receive very weak signals or to disable the squelch, simply
turn the control fully counter-clockwise.
CHANNEL SELECTION
Select the required channel by briefly pressing the or keys. The selected channel is
displayed on the LCD. Press and hold either key to quickly advance upwards or downwards
through the channels. Release the key when the required channel is displayed.
DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS
The LCD has three brightness levels to provide suitable lighting for day or night use.
To adjust the brightness
Briefly press the key to cycle through the display brightness settings. The display brightness
will cycle through Off, Dim and Bright. If the radio is switched off the selected brightness level
will be retained in memory and will be restored when the radio is switched on again.
TRANSMITTING
To transmit, press the PTT on the microphone. Hold the microphone 2 – 6 cm from your mouth
and slightly to one side so your voice does not project directly into the microphone. Speak at a
normal voice level. Your GX400 has a build-in speech processor which automatically controls
the level of your transmitted voice. It is not necessary to raise your voice or shout into the
microphone. Release the PTT to receive.
NOISE LIMITER
The NL key activates an extremely effective noise limiter circuit which helps to eliminate
most electrical impulse interference caused by engine ignition systems etc. This allows clearer
reception of weak signals even under noisy electrical conditions. When the noise limiter is
selected, ‘NL’ is displayed on the LCD.
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GX400 INSTRUCTION MANUAL 7
SCANNING
The Scan function allows a group of channels to be scanned for activity. Channels to be scanned
can be programmed into the scan memory by the user.
By default your GX400 is supplied with all channels in the scan memory. You can remove or add
channels as desired.
To determine if a channel is stored in the scan memory
Select the required channel using the or key then check to see if ‘M’ is displayed to the
right of the channel number. If ‘M’ is displayed, the channel is in the scan memory otherwise the
channel is not in the scan memory.
Channel in scan memory Channel not in scan memory
To add or remove a channel from the scan memory
Select the required channel, then press and hold the SCN key until a beep is heard. If the
channel was not in the scan memory, it will be added and ‘M’ will appear. If the channel was
currently in the scan memory, it will be removed and ‘M’ will disappear.
To scan
Adjust the Squelch control so the radio is quiet then briefly press the SCN key. A high beep will
be heard, ‘SCAN’ will appear in the display and the channel numbers will change rapidly as the
radio begins scanning. If a signal is found, the radio will pause on that channel and will remain
there as long as the channel remains busy. Once the channel has been clear for 5 seconds,
scanning will resume.
NOTE: You must have at least two channels programmed into the scan memory otherwise the
radio won’t scan.
To change the scan direction
Press the or key. The radio will scan in the direction of the selected key.
To skip over a busy channel and resume scanning
Briefly press the or key. Scanning will resume.
To transmit on a busy channel
Wait for a break in the conversation then press the PTT key. The radio will exit the scan mode
and stay on the channel allowing you to communicate with others on that channel.
To resume scanning briefly press the SCN key again.
NOTE: If the PTT is pressed while the radio is scanning, it will be ignored and a low beep will be
heard when the PTT is released.
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8 INSTRUCTION MANUAL GX400
To exit the Scan mode manually
Briefly press the SCN key. ‘SCAN’ will disappear from the display.
NOTE: Excessive noise on a channel can cause the scanner to pause on that channel even if
there is no signal there. If this only happens on one channel, you may need to consider removing
that channel from the scan memory. If it happens on all channels, you should try increasing the
squelch setting.
PRIORITY CHANNELS (PR1/PR2)
There are two Priority channel memories labelled PR1 and PR2 that allow you to store channels
for instant recall.
To store a Priority channel, select the required channel using the or keys, then press and
hold the required priority key (PR1 or PR2) to store the channel under the designated key.
To recall a Priority channel, briefly press either PR1 or PR2. The radio will instantly jump to the
designated channel and the channel number will be displayed along with the associated ‘PR1’
or ‘PR2’ icon.
KEY LOCK FUNCTION
The Key Lock allows most of the keys to be locked to prevent accidental key presses from
changing the channel or the radio’s settings. While the keys are locked only the Volume,
Squelch and 88 button controls are available.
To lock the keys, press and hold the key for 1 second. The icon is displayed and a
high beep is heard.
To unlock the keys, press and hold the key again. The icon disappears and a low
beep is heard.
OpERAtION ON tHE AUstRALIAN MARINE BAND
Channel 88
Channel 88 is the designated 27 MHz marine safety channel and in many areas is monitored by
coastal-watch and rescue organisations for emergency and safety purposes. When Channel 88 is
selected, ‘SAFETY’ is displayed on the LCD.
When making radio calls, you should make initial contact on Channel 88 then switch to another
channel to continue your conversation. This leaves Channel 88 free for other calls or emergencies.
Channel 88 key
Your GX400 has a dedicated Channel 88 key to allow instant access to Channel 88. Pressing
this key cancels all other functions such as Scan or Dual Watch and takes you straight to
Channel 88. When Channel 88 is selected using the 88 key, ‘SAFETY’ is displayed on the LCD
and the or keys are disabled.
To return to normal channel operations briefly press the 88 key again. ‘SAFETY’ will disappear
from the display, the radio will return to the previously selected channel and the or keys
will be restored.
DUAL WATCH (MARINE MODE)
Dual Watch in the Marine mode allows your GX400 to monitor both Channel 88 and another
selected channel by quickly switching between them. Any signals received on Channel 88 take
precedence over signals on the selected channel.
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GX400 INSTRUCTION MANUAL 9
To use the Dual Watch feature, adjust the Squelch control so the radio is quiet, select your
preferred working or club channel then press the DW key. ‘DW’ will appear on the display and
the channel display will alternate between Channel 88 and your selected channel.
If a signal is received on your selected channel, the radio will pause on that channel but will
continue to switch to Channel 88 and a brief interruption to the signal will be noticed. Once the
signal has gone, normal Dual Watch switching will resume.
If a signal appears on Channel 88 at any time, the radio will stop switching and will remain on
Channel 88 for as long as the signal is present. Once the signal has gone, normal Dual Watch
switching will resume.
NOTE: If you press the PTT switch while Dual Watch is selected, your GX400 will transmit on
the selected channel. If you wish to talk on Channel 88, press the 88 key to cancel the Dual
Watch and switch straight to Channel 88.
TRIPLE WATCH (MARINE MODE)
The Triple Watch function is an extension of the Dual Watch feature. It allows the GX400 to
monitor three channels – Channel 88, the selected channel and a Priority channel. Each channel
is scanned equally for signals with priority given first to Channel 88, then the Priority channel
and lastly the selected channel.
When Triple Watch is selected, the ‘TW’ icon is displayed. The Priority channel used is the one
stored in the PR1 memory.
To use the Triple Watch mode, first program your Priority channel into the PR1 memory then
select your preferred working channel using the or keys. Now briefly press the TW key.
A high beep will be heard, ‘TW’ will appear and the channel display will alternate between
Channel 88, your selected channel and your Priority channel.
To cancel Triple Watch
Briefly press the TW key. A low beep will be heard and ‘TW’ will disappear from the display.
TRIPLE WATCH FEATURES
If a signal appears on Channel 88
The radio will switch immediately to Channel 88 and ‘88’ will be displayed. At this point the
selected channel and the PR1 channel are no longer being monitored because Channel 88 has
highest priority. During this time the PTT may be pressed for normal transmissions on Channel 88.
Once Channel 88 has become inactive for 5 seconds the Triple Watch function will resume.
If a signal appears on the PR1 channel
Scanning will pause on the PR1 channel but Channel 88 will continue to be monitored every 2
seconds (the selected channel is not monitored). During this time the PTT may be pressed for
normal transmissions on the PR1 channel (monitoring of Channel 88 ceases while transmitting).
Once the PR1 channel has become inactive for 5 seconds Triple Watch will resume.
If a signal appears on the Selected Channel
Scanning will pause on the selected channel but Channel 88 and the PR1 channel will
continue to be monitored every 2 seconds. During this time the PTT may be pressed for normal
transmissions on the selected channel (monitoring of Channel 88 and the Priority channel ceases
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10 INSTRUCTION MANUAL GX400
while transmitting). Once the selected channel has become inactive for 5 seconds the Triple
Watch will resume.
To transmit on the Selected Channel while Triple Watching
Simply press the PTT. The Triple Watch function will pause during the transmission and remain
paused until 5 seconds after all activity has ceased on the channel. Triple Watch will then resume.
To transmit on the Priority Channel while Triple Watching
Briefly press the PR1 key. The PR1 channel will then become the selected channel. Now press
the PTT and transmit in the usual way. When your conversation has ended you may use the
or keys to re-select your preferred channel.
To transmit on Channel 88 while Triple Watching
Press the 88 button. Triple watch will be cancelled and the radio will switch straight to Channel
88 (and ‘SAFETY’ will be displayed). Now press the PTT and transmit in the usual way. When
your conversation has ended, press the 88 button to deactivate the SAFETY channel and press
the TW key to resume Triple Watching.
MARINE BAND PROCEDURES
Most calls to other vessels or stations are initiated on Channel 88. After listening to ensure
Channel 88 is clear, call the other station as follows, repeating both call signs three times.
e.g. “Coast Guard, Coast Guard, Coast Guard. This is – Sea Spray, Sea Spray, Sea Spray, Over”
Once contact has been established, move straight to another channel (e.g. 91 or 94) to continue
your conversation, leaving Channel 88 clear for emergencies or further calls. Don’t forget to
return to Channel 88 when you have finished (or select Dual Watch on your radio) otherwise
you may miss other calls meant for you.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
All emergency calls should be made on Channel 88. There are three main types of emergency call.
1. “MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY”
This call should be used when you are in grave or imminent danger and require immediate
assistance. You should call MAYDAY three times followed by your vessel’s name or call sign
three times. Then state your position, a brief description of your vessel, the nature of the
emergency, the number of people on board and their condition. If you hear no reply, repeat
the call at short intervals because someone may be able to hear you but you might not be
able to receive their reply.
After contact has been made, follow any instructions given to you.
2. “PAN, PAN, PAN”
Use this call when an emergency situation exists but there is no immediate danger. The call
should be made in the same way as the MAYDAY call. If you hear no reply, repeat the call at
regular intervals.
3. “SECURITE, SECURITE, SECURITE” (Pronounced Say-cure-e-tay)
This call is used to warn shipping of dangers or hazards, e.g. Bad weather, container adrift etc.
The call may be made to a local monitoring station or to all ships in the area.
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GX400 INSTRUCTION MANUAL 11
MARINE CHANNEL ASSIGNMENTS TABLE
Channel Frequency Use
68 27.680 Commercial, ship-shore-ship
72 27.720 Professional shipping
82 27.820 Professional shipping
86 27.860 Secondary distress and safety
88 27.880 Primary distress and safety
90 27.900 Domestic ship-shore-ship
91 27.910 Domestic ship-shore-ship
94 27.940 Club events, ship-shore-ship
96 27.960 Ship to ship
98 27.980 Rescue organisations
OpERAtION ON tHE CB BAND
88 Key (CB Mode)
In CB mode, the 88 key is preset to Road Channel 8 allowing it to be instantly recalled at
the press of a key. Simply press the 88 key at any time. The radio will jump straight to the Road
Channel 8. If Scan or DW was selected, they will be cancelled.
To return to the previously selected channel, press the 88 key again.
DUAL WATCH (CB MODE)
Dual Watch in CB mode allows your GX400 to monitor both Channel 8 and another selected
channel by quickly switching between them. Any signals received on Channel 8 take precedence
over signals on the selected channel.
To use the Dual Watch feature, adjust the squelch control so the radio is quiet, select your
preferred channel using the or keys then press the DW key. ‘DW’ will appear on the
display and the channel display will alternate between your selected channel and Channel 8.
If a signal is received on your selected channel, the radio will pause on that channel but will
continue to switch to Channel 8 and a brief interruption to the signal will be noticed. Once the
signal has gone, normal Dual Watch switching will resume.
If a signal appears on Channel 8 at any time, the radio will stop switching and will remain on
Channel 8 for as long as the signal is present. Once the signal has gone, normal Dual Watch
will resume.
NOTE: If you press the PTT while Dual Watch is active, your GX400 will transmit on the selected
channel. If you wish to talk on Channel 8, press the 88 key to cancel the Dual Watch and switch
straight to Channel 8.
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12 INSTRUCTION MANUAL GX400
TRIPLE WATCH (CB MODE)
The Triple Watch function is an extension of the Dual Watch feature. It allows the GX400 to
monitor three channels – Channel 8, a selected channel and a Priority channel. Each channel is
scanned equally for signals with priority given first to Channel 8, then the Priority channel and
lastly the selected channel.
When Triple Watch is selected, the ‘TW’ icon is displayed. The Priority channel used is the one
stored in the PR1 memory.
To use the Triple Watch mode, first program your Priority channel into the PR1 memory then
select your preferred working channel using the or keys. Now briefly press the TW key.
A high beep will be heard, ‘TW’ will appear and the channel display will alternate between
Channel 8, your selected channel and your Priority channel.
To cancel Triple Watch
Briefly press the TW key. A low beep will be heard and ‘TW’ will disappear from the display.
TRIPLE WATCH FEATURES
If a signal appears on Channel 8
The radio will switch immediately to Channel 8. At this point the selected channel and the PR1
channel are no longer being monitored because Channel 8 has highest priority. During this time
the PTT may be pressed for normal transmissions on Channel 8.
Once Channel 8 has become inactive for 5 seconds the Triple Watch function will resume.
If a signal appears on the PR1 channel
Scanning will pause on the PR1 channel but Channel 8 will continue to be monitored (the
selected channel is not monitored). During this time the PTT may be pressed for normal
transmissions on the PR1 channel (monitoring of Channel 8 ceases while transmitting).
Once the PR1 channel has become inactive for 5 seconds Triple Watch will resume.
If a signal appears on the selected channel
Scanning will pause on the selected channel but Channel 8 and the PR1 channel will continue
to be monitored. During this time the PTT may be pressed for normal transmissions on the
selected channel (monitoring of Channel 8 and the Priority channel ceases while transmitting).
Once the selected channel has become inactive for 5 seconds the Triple Watch will resume.
To transmit on the Selected Channel while Triple Watching
Simply press the PTT. The Triple Watch function will pause during the transmission and remain
paused until 5 seconds after all activity has ceased on the channel. Triple Watch will then resume.
To transmit on the Priority Channel while Triple Watching
Briefly press the PR1 key. The PR1 channel will then become the selected channel. Now press
the PTT and transmit in the usual way. When your conversation has ended you may use the
or keys to re-select your preferred channel.
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GX400 INSTRUCTION MANUAL 13
To transmit on Channel 8 while Triple Watching
Press the 88 button. Triple watch will be cancelled and the radio will switch straight to Channel
8 (and ‘SAFETY’ will be displayed). Now press the PTT and transmit in the usual way. When
your conversation has ended, press the 88 button to deactivate the SAFETY channel then press
the TW key to resume Triple Watching.
27 MHz CHANNEL ASSIGNMENTS
Channel Frequency Suggested
Usage
Channel Frequency Suggested
Usage
1 26.965 MHz General AM 21 27.215 MHz General Use
2 26.975 MHz General AM 22 27.225 MHz General Use
3 26.985 MHz General AM 23 27.255 MHz General Use
4 27.005 MHz General AM 24 27.235 MHz General Use
5 27.015 MHz General AM 25 27.245 MHz General Use
6 27.025 MHz General AM 26 27.265 MHz General Use
7 27.035 MHz General AM 27 27.275 MHz General Use
8 27.055 MHz General AM (2) 28 27.285 MHz General Use
9 27.065 MHz Emergency (1) 29 27.295 MHz General Use
10 27.075 MHz General AM 30 27.305 MHz General Use
11 27.085 MHz Call Channel 31 27.315 MHz General Use
12 27.105 MHz General AM 32 27.325 MHz General Use
13 27.115 MHz General AM 33 27.335 MHz General Use
14 27.125 MHz General AM 34 27.345 MHz General Use
15 27.135 MHz General AM 35 27.355 MHz General Use
16 27.155 MHz General Use 36 27.365 MHz General Use
17 27.165 MHz General Use 37 27.375 MHz General Use
18 27.175 MHz General Use 38 27.385 MHz General Use
19 27.185 MHz General Use 39 27.395 MHz General Use
20 27.205 MHz General Use 40 27.405 MHz General Use
(1) Legally Designated
(2) Suggested Road Channel
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14 INSTRUCTION MANUAL GX400
INstALLAtION
GENERAL
It is advisable to spend a little time selecting the best location for your GX400. The radio can
mounted to a shelf or panel using the supplied gimbal bracket. Alternatively it can be flush
mounted using an optional flush mount kit.
Keep the following points in mind when choosing a location
• The GX400 is designed to meet IPX7 standard. However we recommended you select a
location that will minimise excessive exposure to continuous rain or spray.
• Select a location that won’t expose your radio to continuous direct sunlight which could
cause overheating.
• Ensure the location allows a free flow of air around the heat sink on the back of the radio.
• The microphone and all controls should be readily accessible and the loud speaker easily heard
from the normal steering or driving position. An extension speaker can be installed if required.
• Components and currents in the radio create magnetic fields. To avoid interference to
compasses, ships autopilot sensors etc, the GX400 should be mounted at least 30 cm from
such devices.
INSTALLING THE UNIT
Gimbal Mounting
The mounting bracket can be rotated above, below or behind the radio enabling the radio to be
mounted to a wide range of locations.
After choosing a location, hold the unit with the mounting bracket attached, to the desired
position and mark the location with a pencil. Remove the mounting bracket from the radio
and drill the mounting holes. Bolt or screw the bracket in place using hardware suitable for the
mounting surface. The unit is supplied with stainless steel screws; however, if the mounting
surface is unsuitable for screws you may need to replace these with stainless steel bolts.
Remember the fixings for overhead mounted units may have to withstand heavy pounding when
a vessel is in rough water or being towed on a trailer over rough road.
Upright
Mounting
Panel
Mounting
Overhead
Mounting
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GX400 INSTRUCTION MANUAL 15
Flush Mounting
The GX400 can be flush mounted using the optional MK008 flush mounting kit. A cutting
template and full mounting instructions are provided with the kit.
Flush Mounting using the optional MK008 mounting kit
DC CONNECTIONS
Connect the RED power lead to the Positive (+) side of the battery or to an accessory point in
the vessel or vehicle’s fuse box.
Connect the BLACK power lead to the Negative (-) side of the battery or to a ground point in
your vessel or vehicle.
IMPORTANT: The RED power lead is fitted with a 2 Amp fuse. If the fuse blows, use only a
standard 2 Amp (3AG) fuse as a replacement. Use of a higher rated fuse or a slow-blow type
could result in damage to your radio which would void the warranty.
If required, an extension speaker may be installed to improve sound levels in noisy environments
or in locations further away from the steering or driving position.
27MHz MARINE TRANSCEIVER
PR 1
PR 2
SCN
NL
DW
88
TW
SQL
VOL
Fuse
Black- Red+
Programming,
(factory use only)
27 MHz
Antenna
Extension Speaker
(optional)
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16 INSTRUCTION MANUAL GX400
ANTENNA INSTALLATION
It is essential to select a good quality, high efficiency, 27 MHz antenna. A poor quality
antenna or one not designed for the specific frequency band you are using will give very
poor performance.
Since the GX400 is capable of being switched between the 27 MHz Marine and the 27 MHz
CB Bands, it is important to connect an antenna suitable for the band you have chosen to use.
Because each band is in a different part of the frequency spectrum it isn’t possible to have a
single antenna that will work well on both bands. You will therefore need to select a suitable
antenna to suit the band you have selected.
GME have a huge range of suitable 27 MHz CB and 27 MHz marine antennas to suit most
installations and applications. We recommend you contact your local dealer for advice.
Connect the antenna cable to the rear antenna socket using a PL259 coaxial connector.
NOTE: The antenna connector is not waterproof.
EXTENSION SPEAKER
If required an optional 8 Ohm extension speaker can be fitted to the GX400 to extend the
sound to another part of your vessel (e.g. If the radio is mounted inside the cabin, the extension
speaker can be used to monitor incoming calls while outside). When the extension speaker
is plugged in, the internal speaker continues to operate allowing you to hear sound at
both locations.
Plug the extension speaker into the 3.5 mm socket on the rear cable.
NOISE SUPPRESSION
27 MHz AM marine and CB radio systems can be prone to electrical and ignition interference.
The reason is that electrical noise is a form of AM transmission similar to that used by your radio
and your radio’s receiver is very sensitive. In most cases, ignition noise can be greatly reduced
or eliminated by selecting the Noise Limiter (NL) key on the radio. In some severe cases,
additional suppression may need to be fitted to the ignition system of your vessel or vehicle,
in which case we recommend you consult an auto or marine electrician for advice specific to
your installation.
Higher frequency electrical interference caused by electric motors and bilge pumps can be
suppressed directly at the motor terminals. Electronic interference caused by other electronic
devices such as fish finders is best minimised by keeping the units, including all wiring and
cables, separate from your GX400.
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GX400 INSTRUCTION MANUAL 17
DISCONNECTING THE MICROPHONE
It is recommended that the microphone be left permanently connected to the GX400, but if it
must be disconnected, proceed as follows:
1. Using a small screwdriver, ease the rubber boot out of the cable entry hole and slide it along
the microphone cable away from the front panel.
2. Identify the plug locking lever, work the screwdriver blade behind it and press the lever
towards the plug body. At the same time gently pull the plug from the socket
(see diagram below).
NOTE: If required, replacement microphones are available with plug and rubber boot
already fitted.
Cable
Cable entry hole
Screwdriver
Locking lever,
move to left to
release plug
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18 INSTRUCTION MANUAL GX400
spECIFICAtIONs*
GENERAL
Complies with: AS4367:2007
Frequency Range: 26 – 30 MHz
Channel Set: Australian 27 MHz CB (26.965 – 27.405 MHz)
Australian Marine (27.680 – 27.980 MHz)
Modulation: AM (A3E)
Supply Voltage: • 12 V DC nominal
• 10.8 – 15.6 V DC range
Frequency Error: ±1.4 kHz
Dual Watch: Monitor time – 250 ms
Scan Rate: 5 channels/second
TRANSMITTER
Modulation Frequency Response: 300 Hz to 3 kHz, + 1 – 3 dB
Max Modulation Depth: 100%
Carrier Output Power: 4 watts max
Spurious Emissions: < – 26 dBm
RECEIVER
Demodulated Frequency Response: 300 Hz to 3 kHz, + 1 – 3 dB
Receive Sensitivity for 12 dB
SINAD @ 30%Modulation: – 110 dBm
Max Squelch: < – 65 dBm
Adjacent Channel Sensitivity: ≥ 55 dB
Spurious Response Immunity: ≥ 55 dB
Conducted Spurious Radiation ≤ – 57 dBm
Audio Output Power 8 Ohms: 2.5 watts
MECHANICAL
Dimensions: 51 (H) x 94 (D) x 170 (W) mm
Weight: 450 grams
ENVIRONMENTAL
Temperature Range: – 0°C to + 55°C
The GX400 will operate over the 26 – 30 MHz frequency range. For information specific to
frequencies outside of the Australian Marine or the Australian and New Zealand CB bands,
please refer to the appropriate amendment, or contact GME at: export@gme.net.au
*All specifications are typical and subject to change without notice or obligation.
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GX400 INSTRUCTION MANUAL 19
stANDARD COMMUNICAtIONs WARRANtY AGAINst DEFECts
This warranty against defects is given by Standard
Communications Pty Ltd ACN 000 346 814
(We, us, our or GME). Our contact details are set out
in clause 2.7. This warranty statement only applies to
products purchased in Australia. Please contact your
local GME distributor for products sold outside of
Australia. Local distributor details at:
www.gme.net.au/export.
1. Consumer guarantees
1.1 Our goods come with guarantees that cannot be
excluded under the Australian Consumer Law.
You are entitled to a replacement or refund for
a major failure and for compensation for any
other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage.
You are also entitled to have the goods repaired
or replaced if the goods fail to be of acceptable
quality and the failure does not amount to a
major failure.
1.2 To the extent we are able, we exclude all other
conditions, warranties and obligations which
would otherwise be implied.
2. Warranty against defects
2.1 This warranty is in addition to and does not
limit, exclude or restrict your rights under the
Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Australia)
or any other mandatory protection laws that
may apply.
2.2 We warrant our goods to be free from defects
in materials and workmanship for the warranty
period (see warranty table) from the date of
original sale (or another period we agree to
in writing). Subject to our obligations under
clause 1.2, we will at our option, either repair
or replace goods which we are satisfied are
defective. We warrant any replacement parts for
the remainder of the period of warranty for the
goods into which they are incorporated.
2.3 To the extent permitted by law, our sole liability
for breach of a condition, warranty or other
obligation implied by law is limited.
(a) In the case of goods we supply, to any one
of the following as we decide –
(i) The replacement of the goods or the supply
of equivalent goods.
(ii) The repair of the goods.
(iii) The cost of repairing the goods or of
acquiring equivalent goods.
(b) In the case of services we supply, to any
one of the following as we decide –
(i) The supplying of the services again
(ii) The cost of having the services
supplied again.
2.4 For repairs outside the warranty period, we
warrant our repairs to be free from defects in
materials and workmanship for three months
from the date of the original repair. We agree to
re-repair or replace (at our option) any materials
or workmanship which we are satisfied are defective.
2.5 We warrant that we will perform services
with reasonable care and skill and agree to
investigate any complaint regarding our services
made in good faith. If we are satisfied that the
complaint is justified, and as our sole liability to
you under this warranty (to the extent permitted
at law), we agree to supply those services again
at no extra charge to you.
2.6 To make a warranty claim you must before
the end of the applicable warranty period (see
warranty table), at your own cost, return the
goods you allege are defective, provide written
details of the defect, and give us an original or
copy of the sales invoice or some other evidence
showing details of the transaction.
2.7 Send your claim to:
Standard Communications Pty Ltd.
17 Gibbon Rd, Winston Hills, NSW 2153, Australia.
Tel: (02) 8867 6000 Fax: (02) 8867 6199.
Email: servadmin@gme.net.au
2.8 If we determine that your goods are defective,
we will pay for the cost of returning the repaired
or replaced goods to you, and reimburse you
for your reasonable expenses of sending your
warranty claim to us.
3. What this warranty does not cover
3.1 This warranty will not apply in relation to:
(a) Goods modified or altered in any way.
(b) Defects and damage caused by use with non
Standard Communications products.
(c) Repairs performed other than by our
authorised representative.
(d) Defects or damage resulting from misuse,
accident, impact or neglect.
(e) Goods improperly installed or used in a manner
contrary to the relevant instruction manual; or
(f) Goods where the serial number has been
removed or made illegal.
4. Warranty period
4.1 We provide the following warranty on GME
and Kingray products. No repair or replacement
during the warranty period will renew or extend
the warranty period past the period from original
date of purchase.
PRODUCT TYPE WARRANTY
PERIOD
27 MHz land and marine radios 1 year
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Part Number: 310627 Drawing Number: 47121-A
A division of Standard Communications Pty Ltd.
Head Office: PO Box 96, Winston Hills, NSW 2153, Australia.
New Zealand: PO Box 58-446 Botany, Auckland, 2163, NZ. T: (09) 274 0955.
All other international enquiries email: export@gme.net.au