Standard Communications GX600D VHF Marine DSC Radio User Manual Installation manual
Standard Communications Pty Ltd VHF Marine DSC Radio Installation manual
Contents
- 1. Installation manual
- 2. User manual
Installation manual
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INSTRUCTION MANUAL
VHF MARINE
DSC RADIO
GX600D
PRINTED IN ENGLISH
INTERNATIONAL :
USA : FCC ID : TXJGX600D
CANADA : IC 7332A-GX600D
AUSTRALIA:
0168 !
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WARNING: RADIO OPERATOR INFORMATION
The GX600D is a radio transmitting device.
• When transmitting, keep any part of your
head or body more than 1.5m from
the antenna.
• Do not transmit near electrical blasting
equipment or in explosive atmospheres.
• Do not allow children to operate a radio
transmitter unsupervised.
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure
limits set forth for an uncontrolled enviroment. This device’s
antenna must be installed in accordance with provided
instructions. Further, this transmitter must not be co-located
or operated in conjunction with any other antenna or
tansmitter.
Any modifications not expressly approved in writing by
Standard Communications to this equipment may void
compliance with the appropriate regulatory body and may
void the users authority to operate the equipment.
This devise is only an aid to navigation. Performance is
affected by many factors including environmental conditions
and inappropriate handling. It is the operators responsibility
to employ well informed judgement.
FCC NOTIFICATION
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part
15 of the FCC Rules and Canadian ICES-003. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This equipment
generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and,
if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment off and
on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference
by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
•
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circut different
from that to which the receiver is connected
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician
for help.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two 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.
OPERATOR QUALIFICATIONS
AUSTRALIAN CUSTOMERS
A restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit is the licence
most often held by small vessel radio operators when a
radio is not required for safety purposes.
The restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit must be
posted near the transceiver or be kept with the operator.
Only a licenced radio operator may operate a transceiver.
However, non-licenced individuals may talk over a transceiver
if a licenced operator starts, supervise, ends the call and
makes the necessary log entries.
Any person in Australia operating a VHF Marine Radio should
possess at least a Marine Radio Operators VHF Certificate of
Proficiency (MROVCP). Alternatively, operators may choose
to obtain a Marine Radio Operators Certificate of Proficiency
(MROCP), which covers the operation of both VHF and MF/
HF equipment.
Many technical colleges and marine organisations offer
courses leading to examination for the MROVCP and MROCP
although such courses are not compulsory. Persons wishing
to obtain the MROVCP or MROCP should first purchase a
copy of the Maritime Radio Operator Handbook which is
essential reading for every boat owner in Australia.
The Australian Maritime College (AMC) provides the
marine examination and certificate service on behalf of
the ACA. The AMC can provide the details of organisations
and individuals offering courses and or conducting exams.
For further information visit: www.amc.edu.au
INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMERS
Local requirements will vary throughout the world with
regard to operator qualification, DSC registration and
MMSI allocations.
RADIO LICENCES
SHIP STATION LICENSE
When your craft is equipped with a VHF Marine transceiver,
you must have a current radio station licence before using
the transceiver. It is unlawful to operate a ship station
which is not licensed.
Inquire through your dealer or the appropriate government
agency for a ship-Radiotelephone license. This license
includes the call sign which is your craft’s identification
for radio.
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GX600D INSTRUCTION MANUAL PAGE 3
RESTRICTIONS OF USE
European Telecommunications Standard Institute (ESTI) has
stipulated the specific requirements (EN 301 025-1/2/3)
for marine radio with class D DSC feature. For use on non-
SOLAS vessels or vessels on inland waterways.
This radio is intended for use in European countries: DK, FI,
FR, DE, GR, IE, IT, MT, NL, PT, ES, SE, GB, IS, NO and TR.
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations. You have just purchased one of the most
technically advanced VHF Marine Radios in the world.
The GME GX600D is a VHF FM Radio designed to operate
in the 156 - 163 MHz marine band.
The GX600D has a number of enhanced features including
fully user programmable Channel Scanning, Dual Watch and
Triple Watch functions, a programmable ‘Instant’ channel
memory and tri-colour display lighting. In addition it
incorporates Digital Selective Calling and supports position
reporting when connected to a GPS receiver.
With its compact size and waterproof design it can easily be
installed into almost any panel mounting location in your fly
bridge or cabin.
The GX600D is totally designed and manufactured at our
factory in Gladesville, Australia. Precision robots and the
SAFETY INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
OPERATOR QUALIFICATIONS .................2
RESTRICTIONS OF USE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
INTRODUCTION ..........................3
FEATURES ...............................3
DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING .................4
MARINE MOBILE SERVICE IDENTITY ...........4
RANGE .................................4
OPERATION .............................4
DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING (DSC) ............9
CONFIGURATION MENU ...................13
Menu Options .......................14
Call Log ............................14
Display ............................15
Setup ..............................15
GPS Setup ..........................15
CONNECTING A GPS RECEIVER ..............16
OPTIONAL RM600D REMOTE UNIT ...........17
INSTALLATION ..........................17
SPECIFICATIONS .........................19
CHARTS ...............................20
Special Purpose Frequencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Weather Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
USA Frequency Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Canadian Frequency Chart .............22
International Charts ...................23
WARRANTY ............................20
CONTENTS
very latest manufacturing techniques ensure a consistently
high quality is maintained resulting in a communications
system of extreme reliability and performance.
Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure you get the
best from the GX600D’s features.
FEATURES
• Compact Waterproof Design
• Selectable International, USA, and Canadian Channel Sets
• GPS position display when connected to a GPS
• Fully Compliant Class ‘D’ Digital Selective Calling
• Separate DSC Receiver
• Selectable USA Weather Channels
• Dual Watch and Triple Watch with Programmable
Priority Channel.
• 20 Private Channels available
• Programmable Channel Scanning
• Selectable Power 25/1 Watt
• Working Channel Memory
• Alphanumeric Microphone for DSC control
• Adjustable Digital Squelch setting
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DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING (DSC)
The Digital Selective Calling (DSC) feature on your GX600D
uses preformatted digital data messages instead of voice to
transmit urgent or important information to another radio.
DSC alerts all radios within range to a Distress message
even when a listening watch is not being maintained.
This increases the chances of your signal being heard.
DSC is part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety
System (GMDSS) which is expected to eventually replace
listening watches on distress frequencies and will be used to
announce all routine and urgent maritime safety information
broadcasts.
DSC AND GPS
DSC operation is enhanced by the addition of a GPS receiver
or chartplotter connected to your GX600D.
When a GPS is connected, your distress call can
automatically include your current position and time, while a
chartplotter will allow you to display the position of another
vessel. If a GPS is not connected, DSC calls can still be sent
and received to alert the operator of another vessel for
subsequent voice communication.
MARINE MOBILE SERVICE IDENTITY
(MMSI)
A MMSI is a 9-digit number used to identify a Radio that is
capable of using DSC. The number is used to selectively call
other vessels.
To setup and use the DSC feature on your radio:
Please refer to the ‘Digital Selective Calling’ section on
page 8 of this manual
Note: You can still receive Distress calls without a
user MMSI.
USER MMSI
To use the DSC feature you must be registered with the
appropriate licensing authority in your country (AMSA in
Australia) who will issue you with your unique User MMSI
number. You can then enter this into your GX600D to enable
DSC operation. Having a registered User MMSI means you
can be identified much quicker in an emergency. If you are
not sure whom to contact , consult your GME dealer.
Your GX600D is shipped from the factory without a User
MMSI number. It is up to the user to obtain a valid MMSI
from the appropriate licensing authority and enter the MMSI
into the radio to enable DSC operation.
GROUP MMSI
The Group MMSI is used for DSC Group Calls. A Group Call
provides a method for all vessels with a common interest
(eg: a yacht club or a fishing fleet) to be contacted with
one DSC call. Group MMSI’s are usually issued by a club
or organisation for use by members participating in group
activities (such as yacht racing etc).
RANGE
The range of VHF transmissions depends on antenna
height, transmitter power and the terrain over which
the signals pass. Ship to ship communications should
be possible over at least 8 nautical miles and up to
about 27 nautical miles. Ship to shore ranges will
often be greater due to the increased height of the
shore antenna and communications of 25 to 50
nautical miles are possible.
VOLUME ON/OFF
Rotate the Volume control clockwise past the ‘click’ to turn
the GX600D on. Your user MMSI is displayed momentarily
at switch-on. While receiving a signal, continue to rotate
clockwise to increase the sound in the speaker. Rotate the
control fully counterclockwise past the ‘click’ to turn the
GX600D Off.
Note: At minimum volume setting there is still sufficient
volume to be heard in a quiet cabin environment.
CHANNEL SELECTION
Standard Marine Channels
Briefly press the key to step upwards one channel or the
key to step downwards one channel. A high beep will be
heard at each press. The or keys are also duplicated on
the front of the microphone.
Press and hold the or keys for 1.5 seconds to scroll
quickly upwards or downwards through the channels at
a rate of 10 channels per second. When the key is released
channel scrolling stops.
Weather Channels
The US weather channels are available only when the
USA Channel Set has been selected. When available,
weather channels are numbered 01 – 10 and are inserted
into the normal channel sequence below marine channel
01. They are selected in the usual way using the or
keys. Weather channels are identified by the WX icon on the
display.
Private Channels
Up to 20 Private channels can be programmed into the
GX600D for organisations that have been officially allocated
specific frequencies. Private channels are programmed on
application to your GME branch office or dealer. All requests
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GX600D INSTRUCTION MANUAL PAGE 5
OPERATION
CONTROLS
Channel Down Channel Up LCD Display Volume
Scan
Microphone
Speaker
DSC Distress Channel 16 Channel A Intercom Dual Watch/ Squelch
Memory Hi/Low Triple Watch
Power
for private channel programming must be supported by
documentation of the appropriate regulatory body in your
country.
If Private channels have been installed they will appear as
A0 – A9 and B0 – B9 above CH 88.
SQUELCH
To open the squelch:
Briefly press the SQL key. A low beep will be heard and the
squelch will open. Briefly press the SQL key again to close
the squelch. A high beep will be heard and the squelch will
be restored to its preset level.
Setting the Squelch Preset Level:
The preset squelch level can be adjusted to suit local
conditions. If you are in an electrically noisy location or
unwanted weak signals keep opening the squelch, you
can adjust the squelch setting so that the GX600D
remains quiet. Note that increasing the preset squelch
level will mean that stronger signals will be required to
overcome the squelch and may result in missed calls
from weaker signals.
The best setting is the minimum one required to keep the
receiver quiet.
To enter the Squelch setting mode:
Press and hold the SQL key for 1.5 seconds until a high
beep is heard. The present squelch setting will be displayed
in digits from -1 to -9 with -1 being minimum and -9 being
maximum squelch. The default setting is -2. While in this
mode, briefly press the or keys to increase or decrease
the Squelch level respectively as required. Press the SQL key
again to exit the Squelch setting mode or wait 5 seconds
and it will exit automatically. A low beep will be heard.
Keylock
To lock the keypad press and hold the key on the
microphone. A high beep will be heard and the
symbol will be displayed. Press and hold the key
again to cancel the keylock function.
While keylock is enabled, only the PTT, , SQL,
16 and DISTRESS keys are accessible. All other keys
are locked.
Pressing 16 will cancel the keylock and revert to Channel
16 on high power.
Pressing DISTRESS will cancel the keylock and activate
the Distress menu.
TRANSMITTING
To Transmit:
Press the Push to Talk (PTT) switch on the microphone.
Hold the microphone about 5 - 8 cm from your face and
speak at a normal voice level. The microphone is quite
sensitive so it is not necessary to raise your voice or shout.
Release the PTT when you have finished talking.
Note: PTT transmissions are disabled on Channel 70.
DISPLAY
Transmit
Indicator
Low
Power
Busy
Indicator Dual Watch
Indicator Scan Memory
Channel
Display
Display
Matrix
Key Lock
Channel
Extender
Triple Watch Indicator
MICROPHONE
Call
Alphanumeric
Keypad
Menu/Enter Key
Clear key
Push toTalk
Keylock key
Up key
Down key
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Time-out Timer
Excessive transmission time is controlled by a time-out
timer. If the PTT is held for more than 5 minutes, the
transmitter will be temporarily disabled to prevent
accidental jamming of the channel frequency. Ten seconds
before the time out occurs, the ‘TX’ icon will flash and a
low warning beep will sound to notify you of the impending
timeout. Once the timeout occurs, both the backlight and
the ‘TX’ icon will flash and another low warning beep will
be heard. At this time the transmitter is disabled.
To reset the timer and re-enable the transmitter:
Release the PTT switch and wait 10 seconds. During this
time the radio will display ‘TX INHIBITED FOR 10 SECS’.
Note. Even if the PTT switch is released during the 10
second warning period, the PTT will still be inhibited for
10 seconds after the PTT is released.
CHANNEL 16
Briefly press the 16 key to switch straight to Channel 16.
All previous control settings (such as scanning or low
transmitter power) will be cancelled and the radio will
be restored to normal operation with high transmit
power selected.
SELECTING CHANNEL SETS
The GX600D is programmed with three Channel Sets -
International, USA and Canada. These Channel Sets support
various channel and frequency allocations for other parts of
the world. Once you have selected the required Channel Set
for your location, you should not need to change it again
unless you have moved to another country.
When using the GX600D in Australia and Europe:
The International Channel Set must be selected.
In America use the USA channel set.
In Canada use the CAN channel set.
To change the Channel Set:
Please refer to the Configuration Menu on page 13 of
this manual.
DISPLAY BACKLIGHTING
The LCD display is backlit for easy viewing at night. Both
the brightness and the colour of the backlighting can be
adjusted. Backlight settings are accessed through the menu.
For details on setting the Display brightness, colour or
contrast please refer to the Configuration Menu on page 13
of this manual.
TRANSMIT POWER
The GX600D has both High (25 Watt) and Low (1 Watt)
transmitter power settings. For long range transmissions the
power should be set to 25 Watts. For local transmissions a
1 Watt setting will conserve power and reduce interference
to nearby radios. The default setting on most channels
is 25 Watts.
Refer to the channel charts in this document.
To switch between High and Low transmitter power:
Press and hold the 25/1W key. A high beep indicates High
power is selected while a low beep indicates Low power is
selected. When Low power is selected ‘LO’ is displayed.
USA CHANNEL SET
If Channel 13 or 67 is selected the output power defaults
to 1W. Where operation of 25Watts is allowed the high
power override is obtained by momentarily pressing the
25W/1W button while transmitting. If the microphone PTT
switch is released the radio automatically returns to the
1Watt setting.
Note: The radio always defaults to High power when
Channel 16 is selected.
• Selecting Channel 16 using the 16 key will reset ALL
channels to High power.
• Selecting Channel 16 using the or keys resets only
channel 16 to High Power but retains any Low power
setting on the other channels.
• To specifically use Low power on Channel 16, select
channel 16 then hold the 25/1W key to select low
power. ‘LO’ will be displayed.
WORKING CHANNEL MEMORY
The GX600D has a dedicated ‘working channel’ memory
called Channel A which allows you to store and recall an
often-used working channel. The memory is accessed using
the CHAN A key. Channel A is also used as the priority
channel for the Triple Watch function (see page 7).
To Store a Frequency into Channel A:
Select the required channel using the or keys,
then press and hold the CHAN A key for 1.5 seconds.
The channel number will flash then a high beep will
be heard as the channel is stored.
To Recall Channel A:
Briefly press the CHAN A key to switch immediately to the
channel stored in that memory. If the radio was scanning
the scan will be cancelled.
DUAL WATCH KEY (DW)
The Dual Watch function is a 2 channel scan feature where
the GX600D switches between Channel 16 and any other
selected channel. This allows you to monitor a working
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GX600D INSTRUCTION MANUAL PAGE 7
or club channel while still being able to receive important
broadcasts on Channel 16.
To use the Dual Watch function:
Select your preferred working channel - either with the
or keys or by selecting the CHAN A memory - then
briefly press the DW key. A high beep will be heard and
both ‘DW’ and ‘CH16’ will appear on the display to indicate
you are Dual Watching the selected channel with Channel
16. The GX600D will now monitor the selected channel
AND Channel 16 by alternating equally between them.
During this time the channel display will remain on the
selected channel.
To cancel Dual Watching:
Briefly press the DW key again.
DUAL WATCH FEATURES
If a signal appears on Channel 16:
The radio will switch immediately to Channel 16 and ‘16’
will be displayed. At this point the selected channel is no
longer being monitored because Channel 16 has priority.
During this time the PTT may be pressed for normal
transmissions on Channel 16. Once channel 16 has become
inactive for 5 seconds the Dual Watch function will resume.
If a signal appears on the selected channel:
Scanning will pause on the selected channel BUT Channel 16
will continue to be monitored every 2 seconds. During this
time the PTT may be pressed for normal transmissions on the
selected channel (note that monitoring of Channel 16 ceases
while transmitting). Once the selected channel has become
inactive for 5 seconds the Dual Watch function will resume.
To Transmit on the selected Channel
while Dual Watching:
Simply press the PTT. The Dual Watch function will pause
on the selected channel during the transmission and remain
paused until 5 seconds after all activity has ceased on the
channel. Dual Watch will then resume.
To Transmit on Channel 16 while Dual Watching:
Press the 16 key to select Channel 16. Dual watch will be
cancelled and the radio will switch straight to Channel 16.
Now press the PTT and transmit in the usual way.
When your conversation has ended, press the DW key
to resume Dual Watching.
To change the selected Channel while Dual Watching:
Simply select another channel either using the or keys
or Dual Watching continues on the newly selected channel.
TRIPLE WATCH KEY (TW)
The Triple Watch function is an extension of the Dual
Watch feature. It allows the GX600D to monitor Channel
16, a selected channel AND a priority channel. Each
channel is scanned equally for signals with priority given
first to CH 16, then the Priority channel and lastly the
selected channel.
When Triple Watch is selected the ‘TW’ icon is displayed
along with Channel 16, the Selector Channel and the
Priority Channel. The ‘Priority’ Channel is the one stored
in the CHAN A memory.
To use the Triple Watch mode:
First program your priority channel (the default priority
channel is 9) into the CHAN A memory, then select your
preferred working channel using the or keys.
Now press and hold the TW key for 1.5 seconds until
a high beep is heard. ‘TW’ and the selected channel
will be displayed along with CH16 and the Priority
Channel number.
To change the selected channel at any time:
Press the or keys.
To cancel Triple Watch
Briefly press the TW key to switch to Dual Watch mode.
A high beep will be heard.
OR
Press and hold the TW key to return to normal operation.
A low beep will be heard.
TRIPLE WATCH FEATURES
If a signal appears on Channel 16:
The radio will switch immediately to Channel 16 and
‘CH 16’ will be displayed. At this point the selected
channel and the Priority channel are no longer being
monitored because Channel 16 has highest priority. During
this time the PTT may be pressed for normal transmissions
on Channel 16. Once Channel 16 has become inactive for
5 seconds the Triple Watch function will resume.
If a signal appears on the Priority channel:
Scanning will pause on the Priority channel BUT Channel 16
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 Priority channel
(monitoring of Channel 16 ceases while transmitting). Once
the Priority 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
16 and the Priority 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 16 and the Priority channel ceases
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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 CHAN A key. The Priority channel will
then become the selected channel. Now press the PTT
and transmit in the usual way. When your conversation
has ended, re-select your selected channel.
To Transmit on Channel 16 while Triple Watching:
Press the 16 key. Triple Watch will be cancelled and
the radio will switch straight to Channel 16. Now press the
PTT and transmit in the usual way. When your conversation
has ended, press and hold the TW key to resume Triple
Watching.
SCANNING
The Scan function allows the GX600D to scan through
a series of user selected channels looking for activity.
Scanning is done in an ascending sequence at a rate
of 10 channels per second.
Channels can be selected and stored for scanning from
any of the available channels, including weather channels
(if the USA channel set is selected) and private channels
(if they are enabled).
Note: The transmitter is disabled while scanning. If the PTT
is pressed, a low beep will be heard and the PTT is ignored.
To store channels for scanning:
Select the required channel using the or keys, then
press and hold the SCAN key for 1.5 seconds. A high
beep with be heard and ‘M’ will appear next to the
channel number.
Repeat the process to remove a previously stored channel
from the scan list. When a channel is removed a low beep is
heard and ‘M’ disappears from the display on that channel.
To Begin Scanning:
Briefly press the SCAN key. The GX600D will scan upwards
through the stored channels at 10 channels per second and
the display will show rapidly changing channel numbers.
If a signal is located, scanning will pause on that channel
and will remain for 5 seconds after the signal has gone.
Scanning will then resume.
To stop the scan:
Briefly press the SCAN key again. The radio will return to
the last selected channel.
SCANNING FEATURES
If the scan is paused on a busy channel
and you wish to remain on that channel:
Briefly press the SCAN key. Scanning will be cancelled and
the radio will remain on that channel. To resume scanning,
briefly press the SCAN key again.
If the scan is paused on a busy channel and you
wish to skip over that channel:
Briefly press the or keys. Scanning will resume with
the next channel in sequence. As an alternative, pressing
the SCAN key twice will give the same result.
If the scan is paused on a busy channel
and you wish to transmit on that channel:
Simply press the PTT switch. Scanning will be cancelled
and the radio will remain on that channel.
Note: if the PTT is pressed at any other time while
scanning, a low beep will be heard and the PTT will
be ignored.
To switch immediately to Channel 16:
Briefly press the 16 key. Channel 16 will be selected,
scanning will be cancelled and the radio will be restored
to normal operation with high transmitter power selected.
To switch immediately to the stored working
channel (CHAN A):
Briefly press the CHAN A key. Scanning will be cancelled
and the radio will switch to the channel stored in the
CHAN A memory.
Scanning Notes:
1. Each channel set has its own independent scan memory.
E.g. Scan channels stored under the International
channel do not affect those stored under the USA
channel set.
2. A minimum of 2 channels is required in the scan memory
before scanning is allowed. If there are less that 2
channels, pressing the Scan key will give a low beep
and the scan will be ignored.
3. The following keys/functions are disabled while
scanning:
• PTT
• 25/1W
• Scan memory storage
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GX600D INSTRUCTION MANUAL PAGE 9
Scanning with Dual Watch:
If Dual Watch is selected while scanning, Channel 16
will be inserted into the scan every fifth channel
Scanning with Triple Watch:
If Triple Watch is selected while scanning, Channel 16 and
the priority channel (stored in the CHAN A memory) will
both be inserted into the scan every fifth channel.
DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING (DSC)
Digital Selective Calling (DSC) uses digital data to provide
automatic distress alerting and position reporting between
DSC equipped radios. Using preset functions built in to
the radio, you can make a range of automated digital calls
including Distress Calls, All Ships and Group Calls as well
as calls to individual radios. With the addition of a GPS you
can also send your position to another vessel or request
their position. DSC has a number of advantages over
voice calls including the ability to handle increased radio
traffic and the automatic identification of your ship and its
position in the event of an emergency.
DSC is part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety
System (GMDSS) and will eventually replace audible
listening-watches on distress frequencies. It will also be
used to announce routine and urgent maritime safety
information broadcasts to other ships in the area.
The GX600D has two receivers, one of which is dedicated
to CH70. Therefore, regardless of which channel you are
operating on, the GX600D will not miss a DSC call if in
receiving range.
USER MMSI
(MARINE MOBILE SERVICE IDENTITY)
A User MMSI is a 9-digit number used to identify a DSC
capable Radio. The number is used to selectively call other
vessels and is issued by your local Maritime Authority
(AMSA in Australia).
NOTE: Before you can use DSC, you must have entered
your User MMSI number into your GX600D. If you don’t yet
have a User MMSI, please register with your local Maritime
Authority who will then issue a unique MMSI number.
Please refer to the User MMSI section of the Configuration
Menu on page 13 of this manual for instructions on
entering your User MMSI.
DISTRESS CALLS
To make a Distress Call:
Always use the Red DISTRESS button on the GX600D’s
front panel. To make any other DSC call, use the CALL
button on the microphone.
TO MAKE A DISTRESS CALL:
1. Open the Red DISTRESS cover.
2. Briefly press the DISTRESS key. The display shows the
‘Nature of Distress’ Menu list.
3. Use the or keys to select the nature of the Distress.
The list includes: Undefined, Fire, Flooding, Collision,
Grounding, Listing, Sinking, Disabled, Abandoning,
Piracy and Man Overboard.
4. With the correct Distress item selected, press and hold
the DISTRESS key for 5 seconds. The display will flash
and the radio will count from 5 down to 1, beeping at
each count.
Note: To cancel the Distress call, release the DISTRESS key
before the countdown is completed. The radio will return to
normal operation on CH16.
5. When the countdown is complete, the DISTRESS call will
be sent on Channel 70 (whether CH70 is busy or not).
After the Distress call is sent, the radio switches to CH16
and the display shows ‘DISTRESS’ and ‘Wait Ack …’ to
indicate it is now in the Distress mode and is waiting for
an acknowledgement from another radio.
While in Distress Call mode, the GX600D is set on CH16
and the user cannot change channels. The keypad on the
microphone is disabled and all front panel keys except for
SQL are disabled. If the PTT is pressed, the radio transmits
on CH16 on HI power.
If an acknowledgement is not received, the Distress call
will be resent at around 4 minute intervals (whether CH70
is busy or not) – for as long as the radio remains in the
Distress Call mode.
Note: A Distress Call can also be resent immediately at any
time by holding the DISTRESS key again for 5 seconds.
The Distress call mode is cancelled when a DISTRESS
ACKNOWLEDGE is received or the 16 key is pressed.
The radio then returns to Normal operation on CH16.
Note: A Distress Acknowledge response is generally sent by
a coastal base station.
RECEIVING A DISTRESS CALL
When a Distress Call is received:
The GX600D switches to CH16 and generates an audible
Distress Alert Alarm.
DISTRESS:
WAIT ACK . . .
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The radio’s display then alternates between the name and
position of the vessel in distress and the time and nature
of the emergency at 3 second intervals:
Press CLEAR to cancel the alarm but continue displaying
the emergency information.
Press CLEAR again to return to Normal operating mode
on CH16.
MAKING ALL OTHER DSC CALLS
All other DSC calls - apart from Distress calls - are made
using the CALL button on the microphone.
DSC MENU NAVIGATION
To access the DSC Call menu:
Press the CALL button on the microphone. The ‘CALL’ Menu
will be displayed providing a range of DSC call options.
To navigate the Call Menu:
Press the or keys to move up or down through the
available menu options.
Press ENTER to select the current menu selection.
Press CLEAR to quit the current menu selection.
Press CLEAR again to exit the ‘CALL’ Menu and return
to normal operation.
Note: At any time in DSC mode, including Distress Calls,
press the 16 key to cancel DSC mode entirely and return
the radio to normal mode on HI power.
DSC CALL MENU OPTIONS
Individual Calls:
Use the ‘Individual Call’ option to alert a specific vessel that
you wish to communicate with them on a specified channel.
If the called vessel’s radio is on a different channel, their
radio will change to the channel you specify.
Note: To make an individual DSC call you must know the
MMSI of the vessel you are calling.
To make an Individual Call:
1. Press the CALL button. The DSC ‘CALL’ Menu will
be displayed.
2. Select ‘Individual’ and press ENTER. The MMSI number
field will be displayed.
3. Enter the called vessel’s MMSI.
You can either –
Enter the vessels MMSI directly using the keypad
OR
Press the key to retrieve the last called MMSI
OR
Press the key to select a vessel’s MMSI from the
Address Book.
4. Select the channel to be used for voice communication
using the or keys, then press CALL.
Note: If you are calling a Coast Station you will not be
asked to select a channel. Instead the Coast Station will
decide the channel to be used.
5. You will be asked to confirm the call. Press CALL to
transmit the call.
Once the call has been sent, the radio will wait for an
acknowledgement. If an acknowledgement is received the
radio displays.
Press CLEAR (or wait a further 5 seconds) for the radio
to return to Normal mode. You can now have normal voice
communications on the selected channel.
Notes:
If NO acknowledgement is received:
It is likely that the vessel you called is switched off or out of
range. If no response is received within 5 seconds the radio
displays:
PAGE 10 INSTRUCTION MANUAL GX600D
CALL FROM:
SIRIUS
ACKNOWLEDGE
CALLING . . .
SIRIUS
NO REPLY
CALL
> INDIVIDUAL
ALL SHIPS
GROUP
SEND CALL
MMSI:
SEND CALL?
SIRIUS
CALL
SIRIUS:
SELECT CHNL
DISTRESS:
SIRIUS
S 45° 23.48’
E 151°21.14’
Name & Position
of Vessel
DISTRESS:
LISTING
05:32 UTC
Nature of Distress
& Time
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GX600D INSTRUCTION MANUAL PAGE 11
Press CLEAR (or wait a further 5 seconds) for the radio to
return to Normal mode.
If an Acknowledge is received but the other radio
is unable to comply:
This indicates the called vessel’s radio has received and
acknowledged your call, but could not change to the
requested channel. This could mean the called vessel’s radio
is configured for manual reply or is in a mode where the
operator does not want the channel to change.
The radio displays:
Press CLEAR (or wait a further 5 seconds) for radio to
return to Normal mode.
ALL-SHIPS CALL
An All-Ships call is a DSC broadcast to alert all ships in
the area. It is the equivalent to sending a PAN-PAN or
SECURITE voice call. Since the call is to All Ships and not to
an individual vessel, a calling MMSI is not required. Ships
receiving an All-Ships call will change to CH16.
To make al All Ships call:
1. Press the CALL button
2. Select ‘ALL SHIPS’ and press ENTER.
3. Select ‘URGENCY’ or ‘SAFETY’ as appropriate and
press ENTER.
4. Press CALL to send the call
The radio returns to Normal mode on CH16 as soon as
the call has been sent.
Note: There is no DSC acknowledge to an All-Ships call.
GROUP CALL
A Group Call is used to contact all ships that have the same
Group MMSI. All ships receiving a Group call will change to
the specified channel. For example this could be used
to alert all yachts in a race to announce a change in the
race conditions.
To make a Group Call:
1. Press the CALL button
2. Select ‘GROUP’ and press the CALL button again. The
Group MMSI used is the one programmed into your
radio (see Configuration Menu).
3. Select channel to be used for subsequent
communications then press CALL.
4. Press CALL again to send the call.
The radio returns to Normal mode on the selected channel
as soon as the call has been sent.
Note: There is no DSC acknowledge to a Group call.
POSITION REQUEST
A Position request is used to obtain the position of another
vessel. The other vessel’s position is displayed on your
radio’s LCD. If you have a chartplotter connected to the
GX600D, the position of the other vessel can also be
displayed on the chartplotter’s screen.
To make a Position Request:
1. Press the CALL button
2. Select ‘POS REQUEST’ then press the CALL button.
3. Enter the called vessel’s MMSI.
You can either –
Enter the vessels MMSI directly using the keypad
OR
Press the key to retrieve the last called MMSI
OR
Press the key to select a vessel’s MMSI from the
Address Book.
4. Press CALL to send the call.
The request has now been sent and the radio will wait
for a reply.
CALL FROM:
SIRIUS
ACKNOWLEDGE
NOT COMPLY
CALL
INDIVIDUAL
> ALL SHIPS
GROUP
ALL SHIPS
> URGENCY
SAFETY
CALLING . . .
ALL SHIPS
SEND CALL?
ALL SHIPS
CALL
INDIVIDUAL
ALL SHIPS
> GROUP
CALL
GROUP
SELECT CHNL
CALLING . . .
GROUP
SEND CALL?
GROUP
![](/img.php?id=871220&img=bgc.png)
Position Request Responses
If NO acknowledgement is received:
It is likely that the vessel you called is switched off or out
of range. If no response is received within 5 seconds the
radio displays:
Press CLEAR or wait a further 5 seconds for radio to return
to Normal mode.
An acknowledgement is received:
The display will alternate between position and time as
shown below. The position is displayed on the LCD as
Lat/Long in Degrees, Minutes and Decimal Minutes. If a
Chartplotter is attached, the position is also sent to the
Chartplotter and appears on the Chartplotter’s display.
Note: If the radio you are calling does not have a GPS
connected or the GPS signal is not valid, the GPS position
data will be invalid. In that case, the position used will be
the manually set position. If the manual position is has
not been set or hasn’t been updated within 23 hours, then
position data is sent as: ‘N 99`99 E 999’99’ to indicate
position data is invalid. When this is received on the
GX600D it will be displayed as:
Press CLEAR (or wait 5 seconds) for the radio to return to
Normal mode.
The called radio cannot comply:
The called vessel’s radio has received your request, but could
not send it’s position. This could mean the called vessel’s
radio is configured for manual reply, or is in a mode where
position requests are denied (see ‘Auto Pos’ setting on page
15 in the Configuration Menu).
Press CLEAR (or wait a further 5 seconds) for the radio to
return to Normal mode.
Position Send
‘Position Send’ is used to manually send YOUR position to
another vessel. For example, another ship may request your
position using voice communications. Instead of speaking
the latitude and longitude over a voice channel, you can
send your position via DSC which can then be displayed
on the other ship’s radio or directly onto their chartplotter’s
screen.
To send a ‘Position Send’ call:
1. Press the CALL button
2. Select ‘POS SEND’ then press the CALL button.
3. Enter the called vessel’s MMSI.
You can either –
Enter the vessels MMSI directly using the keypad
OR
Press the key to retrieve the last called MMSI
OR
Press the key to select a vessel’s MMSI from the
Address Book.
4. Press CALL to send the call.
The radio returns to Normal mode on the current channel
as soon as the call has been sent.
Note: There is no DSC acknowledgement of a ‘Position
Send’ call.
PAGE 12 INSTRUCTION MANUAL GX600D
CALLING . . .
SIRIUS
NO REPLY
CALL FROM:
SIRIUS
POSITION
01:35 UTC
Displays time in UTC
CALL FROM:
SIRIUS
S 33° 49.30’
E 151° 07.15’
Displays Position
CALL FROM:
SIRIUS
POSITION
_ _:_ _ UTC
CALL FROM:
SIRIUS
S _ _° _ _._ _’
E _ _ _° _ _. _ _’
CALL
ALL SHIPS
GROUP
> POS REQUEST
SEND CALL
MMSI:
CALLING . . .
SIRIUS
CALLING . . .
SIRIUS
NO REPLY
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GX600D INSTRUCTION MANUAL PAGE 13
RECEIVING DSC CALLS
When a DSC call is received, the GX600D automatically
responds depending on the type of call. If a GPS is
connected to the caller’s radio and is receiving a valid signal
then their GPS time is used to display the time of the call on
your GX600D’s display.
Received calls are saved to the Call Log. Received DSC
Acknowledge calls are not saved in the call log.
Receiving an Individual Call
When an ‘Individual’ call is received, the GX600D changes
to the requested channel and generates an audible
‘Individual Call’ alarm. The display then shows:
Your GX600D automatically transmits a DSC acknowledge
back to the caller.
Note: If the GX600D is configured for Manual TX the radio
will not change channel and the acknowledge call will
‘Unable to comply’.
To cancel the alarm, press any key. The radio returns to
‘Normal’ mode on the current channel.
Receiving an All Ships Call
When an All Ships call is received, the GX600D switches to
CH16 and generates an audible All-Ships Urgency/Safety
alarm. The Display shows:
Press any key to cancel the alarm. The radio returns to
Normal mode on CH16.
Receiving a Group Call
When a Group Call is received, the GX600D changes to
the requested channel and generates an audible Group
Call alarm.
The display shows:
Press any key to cancel the alarm. The radio returns to
Normal mode on the current channel.
Receiving a Position Request
When a Position Request is received, your GX600D
generates a DSC Position Reply message then displays
the following:
Press any key to clear the display. The radio returns to
Normal mode on the current channel.
Receiving a Position Send
When a Position Send is received, your GX600D displays
alternating information every 3 seconds to indicate the
GPS time and the position of the calling vessel:
If a chartplotter is connected to your GX600D, the position
of the calling ship is displayed on the chartplotter.
Press any key to clear the display. The radio returns to
Normal mode on the current channel.
CALL FROM:
SIRIUS
ROUTINE
CH12
GROUP CALL:
SIRIUS
CH12
CALL
INDIVIDUAL
POS REQUEST
> POS SEND
SEND CALL
MMSI:
CALLING . . .
SIRIUS
ALL SHIPS:
SIRIUS
URGENCY
CALL FROM:
SIRIUS
POSITION REQ
CALL FROM:
SIRIUS
POSITION
01:35 UTC
GPS Time
CALL FROM:
SIRIUS
S 33° 49.30’
E 151° 07.15’
Position of
Calling Vessel
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CONFIGURATION MENU
The GX600D is easily configured using a menu system.
Use the keys on the microphone to advance through the
menus and enter information.
To access and navigate the Menus:
Press MENU to access the Main Menu. A list of menu
options is displayed. The ‘>’ symbol indicates the currently
selected menu option.
Press the or keys to move up or down through the
available menu options.
Press ENTER to select the current menu selection.
Press CLEAR to quit the current menu selection.
To exit the Main Menu:
Press CLEAR repeatedly until the menu disappears from
the display.
MENU OPTIONS
Address Book
The address book is used to store the names and user
MMSI’s of other vessels. This makes it easy to identify
and make DSC calls to those stations.
To select the Address Book:
From the Main Menu, select ‘ADDR BOOK’ and
press ENTER.
To Add items to the Address Book:
1. Select ‘ADD’ and press ENTER
2. Enter a suitable name using the Alpha/Numeric
keypad on the microphone (11 characters max.)
then press ENTER
3. Enter the ships MMSI number using the Alpha/Numeric
keypad then press ENTER. ‘SAVING…’ will be displayed
as the Address is stored. The radio then returns to the
‘ADDR’ menu.
NOTE: To correct an error while entering a name or MMSI
a) Press the or keys to move the cursor left or right
through the characters. The character at the cursor
position will flash
b) Press CLEAR to erase the character at the
cursor position.
c) Press another key on the keypad to replace the
character at the cursor position.
To enter additional names and MMSI’s, repeat the steps
1 - 3 above.
To Edit Items in the Address Book:
1. Select ‘EDIT’ and press ENTER
2. Select the name you wish to Edit and press ENTER
3. Press the or keys to move the cursor left or right
through the characters. The character at the cursor
position will flash.
a) Press CLEAR to erase the character at the cursor
position.
b) Press another key on the keypad to replace the
character at the cursor position.
4. Press ENTER to advance to the MMSI
5. Repeat Step 3 to edit the MMSI. Press ENTER
when complete. ‘SAVING…’ will be displayed as the
new Address is stored. The radio then returns to the
‘ADDR’ menu.
To Erase items from the Address Book:
1. Select ‘ERASE’ and press ENTER
2. To erase an individual Address, select ‘ONE-BY-ONE’
and press ENTER.
3. Select the address to be erased and press ENTER.
You will be asked to confirm your selection.
4. Press ENTER to confirm or CLEAR to cancel.
Note: To erase ALL addresses, select the ALL ENTRIES
option at step 2.
CALL LOG
The Call Log keeps track of the DSC calls you have received.
To access the call log:
Select ‘CALL LOG’ from the Main Menu and press ENTER.
DSC calls are logged as either ‘Routine’ or ‘Distress’. Up to
10 calls can be logged in each category. Logged calls are
numbered from 1 – 10 with call 1 being the most recent.
If more than 10 calls have been logged, the oldest call is
discarded when a new call is logged.
To view the call logs:
Select either ‘ROUTINE’ or ‘DISTRESS’ from the Call Log
Menu and press ENTER. The most recently logged call in
the selected category will be displayed as ‘RECEIVED: 1’,
along with the MMSI of the caller and details of the call.
If the caller is in your address book, their name will be
displayed in place of the MMSI.
Press the or keys to view additional logged calls.
While displaying the details of a logged call, press the
MENU key to access additional menu functions relating
to the displayed call.
PAGE 14 INSTRUCTION MANUAL GX600D
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GX600D INSTRUCTION MANUAL PAGE 15
Call
Select ‘CALL’ to call the station listed in the call log. Use
the or keys to select the required channel if prompted
then press ENTER. Press ENTER again to send the call.
Add Address
Select ‘ADD ADDR’ to add the listed caller to your Address
Book. You will be prompted to enter a name for this entry.
Enter the name using the Alpha Numeric keypad then press
ENTER. The MMSI is automatically transferred from the call
list to the Address entry page. Press ENTER to accept the
MMSI. ‘Saving …’ will be display as the address is stored.
Erase
Select this option to erase the displayed entry from
the Call Log.
When finished, press CLEAR to return to the ‘Call
Log’ menu.
Erase all Logs
To erase all logged calls, select ‘ERASE LOGS’ from the
‘Call Log’ menu. You will be prompted for confirmation.
Note: This option will erase ALL call logs from both the
Routine and the Distress categories. Press ENTER to
proceed or CLEAR to cancel.
DISPLAY
Select the ‘DISPLAY’ option from the Main Menu to
configure the display.
Backlight
To change the display’s backlighting, select ‘BACKLIGHT’
and press ENTER. Use the or keys to select from
‘OFF’, ‘DIM’ or ‘BRIGHT’. The display backlighting changes
immediately with each selection. Press ENTER to accept
the selection and return to the ‘Display’ Menu.
Colour
To change the display colour select ‘COLOUR’ and press
ENTER. Use the or keys to select from ‘RED’,
‘GREEN’ or ‘ORANGE’. The display colour changes
immediately with each selection. Press ENTER to accept
the selection and return to the ‘Display’ Menu.
Contrast
Select ‘CONTRAST’ to change the display contrast.
Changing the contrast can improve visibility in changing
light or at different viewing angles. Use the or keys to
select a contrast level between -10 and 10. The default level
is 1. The maximum contrast setting is 10. Press ENTER to
return to the ‘SETUP’ menu
SETUP
Key Beep
Select ‘KEY BEEP’ and press ENTER to change the volume
of the beeps when keys are pressed. While in the ‘KEY
BEEP’ Menu use the or keys to change the Beep
volume setting to ‘HI’, ‘MED’, ‘LOW’ or ‘OFF’. Press ENTER
to accept the selection and return to the ‘SETUP’ Menu.
Alarm Beep
Select ‘ALARM BEEP’ and press ENTER to change the
volume of the beeps when an Alarm sounds. While in
the ‘ALARM BEEP’ Menu use the or keys to change
the Alarm volume setting to ‘HI’, ‘MED’ or ‘LOW’.
Press ENTER to accept the selection and return to the
‘SETUP’ Menu.
Auto Change
Select ‘AUTO CHANGE’ and press ENTER to select
whether your radio will change channels when requested
by another vessel’s DSC call. Select ‘ON’ to allow your radio
to change channel when requested. Select ‘OFF’ to prevent
your radio from changing channel. Press ENTER to accept
the selection and return to the ‘SETUP’ Menu
Auto Pos.
Select ‘AUTO POS’ and press ENTER to select whether
your radio will automatically send its GPS position to
another vessel whenever a Position Request is received.
Select ‘ON’ to allow your position to be sent automatically
when a vessel sends you a Position Request. Select ‘OFF’ to
disable automatic position sending. Press ENTER to accept
the selection and return to the ‘SETUP’ Menu
UIC
Accesses the USA / International / Canadian channel set
selection. Use the or keys to select from ‘CAN’ , ‘USA’
or ‘INTL’. Press ENTER to accept the selection and return to
normal operation or press CLEAR to discard any changes
and exit back to the ‘SETUP’ menu.
When the Channel Set is changed the GX600D will switch
to CH 16.
Note: When the USA Channel Set is selected, weather
channels are accessible below Channel 01.
GPS SETUP
Position
Lets you manually set the latitude and longitude of your
vessel’s location. The position must be entered in Degrees,
Minutes and decimal Minutes (DMM).
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To enter your position :
Select ‘POSITION’ from the GPS Menu.
Entering the Latitude:
Use the or keys to select ‘N’ (North) or ‘S’ (South)
then press ENTER.
Enter the Latitude using the numerical keypad. To correct
an error, use the or keys to change the cursor position
then re-enter the number at that location. Press ENTER
when done.
Entering the Longitude:
Use the or keys to select E (East) or W (West) then
press ENTER.
Enter the Longitude using the numerical keypad. To correct
an error, use the or keys to change the cursor position
then re-enter the number at that location.
Press ENTER when done. The location will be stored.
UTC Time
Lets you manually set the time in UTC (Greenwich Mean
Time). The time is entered as Hours: Minutes : Seconds
in 24 hour time format.
To enter the time in UTC:
1. Select ‘UTC TIME’ from the ‘GPS SETUP’ Menu. The
Hours cursor will be flashing.
2. Use the or keys to select the hours then press
ENTER. The Minutes cursor will flash.
3. Use the or keys to select the minutes then press
ENTER. The Seconds cursor will flash.
4. Use the or keys to set the seconds then
press ENTER.
The radio returns to the ‘SETUP’ Menu.
Note: The position and time are erased after 23 hours
or when the radio is switched off.
Time Offset
Lets you set the time offset between UTC time and your
local time. A list of Time offsets is in the back of this
manual.
To set the Time Offset:
1. Select ‘TIME OFFSET’.
2. Use the or keys to set the time offset in half
hour segments.
3. Press ENTER to return to the ‘GPS SETUP’ Menu.
GROUP MMSI
A Group Call provides a method for multiple vessels with a
common interest to be contacted with one DSC call.
NOTE: There is no limit on the number of times you can
change the Group MMSI.
To enter the Group MMSI
1. Select ‘GROUP MMSI’ from the Main Menu
2. Enter the ‘GROUP MMSI’ number using the alpha
numeric keypad. To correct an error, use the or keys
to change the cursor position then re-enter the number
at that location.
3. Press ENTER when finished to the Main Menu
USER MMSI
The User MMSI is unique to each radio and must be entered
to enable normal DSC operation - except for Distress calls
which can be received without a user MMSI.
The GX600D is shipped from the factory with the user
MMSI ‘un-programmed’. It is up to the user to obtain a
valid MMSI from the appropriate licensing authority and
enter the MMSI into the radio to enable DSC operation.
Important: It is a requirement of the regulations that the
User MMSI can only be entered ONCE. If there is a need to
change the MMSI more than once you will need to contact
your authorized GME service centre for advice. For this
reason take special care when entering your User MMSI
number to ensure it is entered correctly before saving it.
To enter the User MMSI:
1. Select ‘USER MMSI’ from the Main Menu.
2. Enter the 9 digit User MMSI number issued to you by
your local authority using the alpha numeric keypad.
If you make an error, use the or keys to move
the cursor position to the incorrect number then
re-enter the number at that location.
3. Once you are certain the number has been entered
correctly, press ENTER to store it and return to the
Main Menu.
CONNECTING A GPS RECEIVER
You can connect a GPS receiver or GPS Plotter to your
GX600D to provide your radio with GPS position and
time reporting.
NMEA 0183 DATA
The GX600D recognises the following standard NMEA
sentences. You may need to select NMEA 0183 Input/
Output using the interface settings on your GPS.
• NMEA Input from GPS: GPSGLL, GPGGA, GPRMC,
GPGNS (v2.x).
• NMEA Output to plotter: GPDSC (v2.x). GPDSE (v3.x).
PAGE 16 INSTRUCTION MANUAL GX600D
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GX600D INSTRUCTION MANUAL PAGE 17
NMEA WIRING
OPTIONAL RM600D REMOTE UNIT
The Optional RM600D remote unit provides a remote
head connection to allow operation of the GX600D
from a flybridge or second station on your vessel.
The RM600D conveniently plugs into the GX600D using
an interconnecting cable and no additional interface
wiring is required.
The RM600D is supplied with a DC lead for connection
to a 12 Volt power source and 5 meters of terminated
interconnecting cable. Additional terminated cables are
available in 5 and 10 meter lengths.
When connected, the RM600D can duplicate all functions
of the GX600D. In addition it includes an Intercom feature
that allows internal communications between the GX600D
and the RM600D.
The RM600D is supplied with a standard PTT microphone
which is interchangeable with the alphanumeric
microphone supplied with the GX600D. Because of the
additional functions accessible from the alphanumeric
microphone, master control is given to whichever device
has the alphanumeric microphone connected.
Before changing the microphones, both units should
be switched off.
Note: Only one alphanumeric microphone should be
connected to any GX600D/RM600D combination.
INTERCOM
To activate the Intercom feature, press the INT’COM key
from either unit. Press the PTT and talk in the usual way.
To cancel the Intercom, press the INT’COM key again.
Note: Pressing the 16 key or the Distress button also
cancels the Intercom function.
INSTALLATION
Note: Your GX600D is designed for connection to negative
earth electrical systems only.
SELECTING A LOCATION
It is advisable to spend a little time selecting the best
location for your GX600D. The mounting bracket can be
rotated above, below or behind the radio enabling the radio
to be mounted in a wide range of locations. In addition,
using the optional flush mounting kits (MK600, MK001,
MK002) the GX600D can be mounted directly in a panel or
dashboard. The flush mounting kits allow for installation or
replacement of any existing VHF radio.
UPRIGHT OR OVERHEAD MOUNTING
Keep the following points in mind when choosing a
location.
• The GX600D is designed to meet the IP67 specification
which allows for direct water spray. However, we
recommend you select a location that will minimise
excessive exposure to water splashes or continuous rain.
• Select a location that won’t expose your radio
to continuous direct sunlight which could cause
overheating or UV degradation.
• Ensure that 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 position. An extension speaker (SPK600)
can be installed if required.
• For best results connect the battery leads directly to the
vessel’s battery. If you need to extend the power leads to
reach the battery use heavy insulated automotive wire of
at least #10 gauge.
• Components and currents in the radio create magnetic
fields. To avoid interference to ships compasses or
autopilot sensors, the GX600D should be mounted at
least 300 mm from such equipment.
INSTALLING THE UNIT
After choosing your location, hold the unit with the
mounting bracket attached into 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
Yellow
Black
Blue NMEA Out
NMEA In
Common (Gnd)
Panel Mounting Overhead Mounting Upright Mounting Flush Mounting (Optional MK600,
MK001, MK002 flush mounting
kits available)
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may have to withstand heavy pounding when the vessel is
in rough water or being towed on a trailer.
DC Connections
Connect the RED power lead to the Positive (+) side of the
battery or to an accessory point in the vessel’s fuse box.
Connect the BLACK power lead to the negative (-) side of
the battery or to a ground point in your vessel’s fuse box.
Note: The RED power lead is fitted with a 10 Amp fuse.
If the fuse blows, use only a standard 10 Amp (3AG type)
fuse as a replacement. Use of higher rated fuses or ‘slow
blow’ types could result in damage to your radio which
would void the warranty.
Connect the antenna cable to the rear antenna socket on
the radio using a PL259 coaxial connector.
If required, an SPK600 extension speaker may be installed
near the steering position or outside the cabin to improve
the reception clarity in those areas. The SPK600 is
specifically designed for the GX600D with a watertight
connector to match the extension speaker socket on the
rear of the radio.
Noise Suppression
The inherent design of VHF FM radios results in a high
level of resistance to ignition and electrical interference.
However in some installations it may be necessary to
take additional steps to help reduce or eliminate noise
interference. During installation, try to route the DC battery
leads, the antenna lead or any accessory wires away from
the engine compartment, ignition or alternator wiring. If the
noise continues, it may be necessary to fit a suppression kit.
Contact your local Marine Dealer for more information.
Similarly, if the interference you are experiencing is from
other electronic equipment such as a depth sounder, try to
keep the depth sounder’s DC leads and transducer cable
well away from your GX600D’s wiring.
PAGE 18 INSTRUCTION MANUAL GX600D
Rear Panel Connections
GX600D Wiring
Extension Speaker
SPK600 (optional) VHF Antenna
10 Amp Fuse
Black - Red +
12 Volt Battery
GX600D
Mounting Bracket
NMEA Remote Head
DC Power Cable
Extension
Speaker Socket
Gimbal
Knob
Antenna Socket
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GX600D INSTRUCTION MANUAL PAGE 19
ELECTRICAL
General
Complies with: AS/NZS4415.1.2003
Frequency Range: 155 – 165 MHz
Channel Spacing: 25 kHz
Modulation: FM
Channels Sets: • International, USA, Canada
• Private – 20 Channels
• USA Weather Channels
Supply Voltage: • 12 Volt nominal
• 10.5 – 15.6 Volt max. range
• Negative Earth
Frequency Stability: ±1.5 kHz over environmental
extremes
Scan Speed: 100 ms/channel
(10 channels/sec)
Transmitter
Power Output: • High: 25 Watts Max
• Low: 1 Watt Max
Spurious Emissions: < -75 dBc
Frequency Deviation: ± 5 kHz max +20 dB limiting
@ 1 kHz
Frequency Response: + 6 dB per octave,
300 Hz – 3 kHz, +1 - 3 dB
Demodulated S/N: > 50 dB weighted
Current Consumption: • High Power: < 5 Amps
• Low Power: 850 mA
Receiver
IF Frequencies: • 1st: 21.4 MHz
• 2nd: 450 kHz
Sensitivity: -120 dBm for 12 dB SINAD
unweighted
Squelch Sensitivity: Adjustable, 10 preset levels
Spurious Rejection: > 75 dB
Intermodulation
Rejection: > 73 dB
Adjacent Channel
Rejection: > 75 dB
Blocking Rejection: > 100 dB
RF Bandwidth: < 4 MHz
Switching Bandwidth: > 10 MHz
Frequency Response: -6 dB per octave de-emphasis,
300 Hz – 3 kHz, +1 - 3 dB
Audio Output Power: • 4 Watts average into external
4 Ohm speaker
• 2 Watts average into internal
speaker
Audio SN: > 45 dB weighted
Conducted Spurious
Emission: < -70 dBm
Current Consumption: • Muted: < 200 mA
• Full Volume: 700 mA
DSC RECEIVER
IF frequencies: • 1st: 38.85 MHz
• 2nd: 455 kHz
(Note: all DSC limits are for 10e-2 BER)
Sensitivity: -120 dBm
Spurious Rejection: > 75 dB
Intermodulation
Rejection: > 73 dB
Adjacent Channel
Rejection: > 75 dB
Blocking Rejection: > 100 dB
MECHANICAL
Dimensions: 164 (W) x 65 (H) x 77 (D) mm
Flush Mounting: 46 mm Panel Depth minimum
Weight: 585 grams
ENVIRONMENTAL
Temperature Range: - 10°C to + 55°C
Vibration: EN301-025-1
Solar Radiation: Case UV Stabilised
Water and Dust
Resistance: • IP67 excluding external
cabling
Compass Safe Distance: 300 mm
EXTERNAL CONNECTIONS
Microphone: 6 Pin socket
DC Supply: 2 Pin Blade Socket
External Speaker: 3.5 mm Phono Line Socket
Remote Head: 4 Pin Plug
GPS Interface: 3 Wire Cable
SPECIFICATIONS
All specifications are typical and subject to change without notice or obligation.
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GX600D INSTRUCTION MANUAL PAGE 20
CH TX RX TRAFFIC TYPE SHIP TO
SHIP
SHIP TO
SHORE
00 1156.000 156.000 UK Coast Guard Users Yes Yes
M1 157.425 157.850 UK Marina Channel M1 Yes Yes
M2 161.425 161.425 UK Marina Channel M2 Yes Yes
31 157.550 162.150 INT’L, Duplex (Holland) No Yes
96H 162.425 162.425 INT’L (Belgium) No Yes
L1 155.500 155.500 INT’L (Skandinavia) Yes No
L2 155.525 155.525 INT’L (Skandinavia) Yes No
L3 155.650 155.650 INT’L (Skandinavia - not in Denmark) Yes No
F1 155.625 155.625 INT’L (Skandinavia) Yes No
F2 155.775 155.775 INT’L (Skandinavia) Yes No
F3 155.825 155.825 INT’L (Skandinavia) call back Yes No
SPECIAL PURPOSE FREQUENCIES
1. Channel 00 is only for use in the UK to authorized users.
2. The special purpose frequencies are only licenced for use in the country indicated. Refer to your retailer for details.
MHz TRAFFIC TYPE
WX 1 RX Only 162.550 NOAA WEATHER CHANNEL
WX 2 RX Only 162.400 NOAA WEATHER CHANNEL
WX 3 RX Only 162.475 NOAA WEATHER CHANNEL
WX 4 RX Only 162.425 NOAA WEATHER CHANNEL
WX 5 RX Only 162.450 NOAA WEATHER CHANNEL
WX 6 RX Only 162.500 NOAA WEATHER CHANNEL
WX 7 RX Only 162.525 NOAA WEATHER CHANNEL
WX 8 RX Only 161.650 CANADIAN WEATHER CHANNEL
WX 9 RX Only 161.775 CANADIAN WEATHER CHANNEL
WX 10 RX Only 163.275 NOAA WEATHER CHANNEL
WEATHER CHANNELS USA AND CANADA
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CHANNEL
DESIGNATOR
FREQUENCY (MHz)
NOTE
TX RX
01 A 156.050 156.050
03 A 156.150 156.150 3
04 A 156.200 156.200
05 A 156.250 156.250
06 156.300 156.300
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
14 156.700 156.700
15 156.750 156.750 2
16 156.800 156.800
17 156.850 156.850 2
18A 156.900 156.900
19A 156.950 156.950
20A 157.000 157.000
21A 157.050 157.050 3
22A 157.100 157.100
23A 157.150 157.150 3
24 157.200 161.800
25 157.250 161.850
26 157.300 161.900
27 157.350 161.950
28 157.400 162.000
USA FREQUENCY PLAN
A. The letter “A” next to the channel designation indicates USA simplex channel. These channels are duplex in the
International Frequency Plan.
1. 1Watt initially. 25Watts by holding down 25/1Watt button during P.T.T. activation.
2. 1Watt only.
3. These channels require authorization from the U.S. Coast Guard for use in USA waters. Not for public use.
Bold type set indicates Duplex Channels.
CHANNEL
DESIGNATOR
FREQUENCY (MHz)
NOTE
TX RX
60A 156.025 156.025
61A 156.075 156.075 3
62A 156.125 156.125
63A 156.175 156.175
64A 156.225 156.225 3
65A 156.275 156.275
66A 156.325 156.325
67 156.375 156.375 1
68 156.425 156.425
69 156.475 156.475
70 156.525 RX only
71 156.575 156.575
72 156.625 156.625
73 156.675 156.675
74 156.725 156.725
75 156.775 156.775 2
76 156.825 156.825 2
77 156.875 156.875
78A 156.925 156.925
79A 156.975 156.975
80A 157.025 157.025
81A 157.075 157.075 3
82A 157.125 157.125 3
83A 157.175 157.175 3
84 157.225 161.825
85 157.275 161.875
86 157.325 161.925
87 157.375 161.975
88A 157.425 157.425
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GX600D INSTRUCTION MANUAL PAGE 22
A. The letter “A” next to the channel designation indicates Canadian simplex channel. These channels are duplex in the international
frequency plan.
B. The letter “B” next to the channel designation indicates a canadian receive only channel.
1. 1Watt initially. 25Watts by holding down 25/1Watt button during P.T.T. activation.
2. 1Watt only.
3. These channels require authorization from the US Coast Guard for use in Canadian waters. Not for public use.
CHANNEL
DESIGNATOR
FREQUENCY (MHz)
NOTE
TX RX
1 156.050 160.650
2 156.100 160.700
3 156.150 160.750
04A 156.200 156.200
05A 156.250 156.250
6 156.300 156.300
07A 156.350 156.350
8 156.400 156.400
9 156.450 156.450
10 156.500 156.500
11 156.550 156.550
12 156.600 156.600 1
13 156.650 156.650 1
14 156.700 156.700
15 156.750 156.750 2
16 156.800 156.800
17 156.850 156.850 2
18A 156.900 156.900
19A 156.950 156.950
20 157.000 161.600
22A 157.100 157.100
21A 157.050 157.050 3
21B 161.650
22A 157.100 157.100
23 157.150 161.750
23B 161.750
24 157.200 161.800
25 157.250 161.850
25B 161.850
26 157.300 161.900
27 157.350 161.950
28 157.400 162.000
28B 162.00
CANADIAN FREQUENCY PLAN
CHANNEL
DESIGNATOR
FREQUENCY (MHz) NOTE
TX RX
60 156.025 160.625
61A 156.075 156.075 3
62A 156.125 156.125
63A 156.175 156.175
64 156.225 160.825
64A 156.225 156.225 3
65A 156.275 156.275
66A 156.325 156.325
67 156.375 156.375
68 156.425 156.425
69 156.475 156.475
70 156.525
71 156.575 156.575
72 156.625 156.625
73 156.675 156.675
74 156.725 156.725
75 156.775 156.775 2
76 156.825 156.825 2
77 156.875 156.875
78A 156.925 156.925
79A 156.975 156.975
80A 157.025 157.025
81A 157.075 157.075 3
82A 157.125 157.125 3
83A 157.175 157.175 3
83B 161.775
84 157.225 161.825
85 157.275 161.875
86 157.325 161.925
87 157.375 157.375
87B 161.975 161.975
88 157.425 157.425
88B 162.025 162.025
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GX600D INSTRUCTION MANUAL PAGE 23
CHANNEL
DESIGNATOR
FREQUENCY (MHz) NOTE
TX RX
01 156.050 160.650
02 156.100 160.700
03 156.150 160.750
04 156.200 160.800
05 156.250 160.850
06 156.300 156.300
07 156.350 160.950
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
14 156.700 156.700
15 156.750 156.750 1
16 156.800 156.800
17 156.850 156.850 1
18 156.900 161.500
19 156.950 161.550
20 157.000 161.600
21 157.050 161.650
22 157.100 161.700
23 157.150 161.750
24 157.200 161.800
25 157.250 161.850
26 157.300 161.900
27 157.350 161.950
28 157.400 162.000
INTERNATIONAL FREQUENCY PLAN
1. To provide a guard band for channel 16 the operator should restrict any communications on these channels to the 1
Watt setting.
Bold type set indicates Duplex Channels.
Note: it is not legal to use the International Frequency Plan in the USA or Canadian waters.
CHANNEL
DESIGNATOR
FREQUENCY (MHz) NOTE
TX RX
60 156.025 160.625
61 156.075 160.675
62 156.125 160.725
63 156.175 160.775
64 156.225 160.825
65 156.275 160.875
66 156.325 160.925
67 156.375 156.375
68 156.425 156.425
69 156.475 156.475
70 156.525
RX ONLY
71 156.575 156.575
72 156.625 156.625
73 156.675 156.675
74 156.725 156.725
75 156.775 156.775 1
76 156.825 156.825 1
77 156.875 156.875
78 156.925 161.525
79 156.975 161.575
80 157.025 161.625
81 157.075 161.675
82 157.125 161.725
83 157.175 161.775
84 157.225 161.825
85 157.275 161.875
86 157.325 161.925
87 157.375 157.375
88 157.425 157.425
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GME limit this warranty to the original Purchaser of
the equipment.
GME warrant the GX600D to be free from defects
in material and workmanship for a period of twelve
(12) months from the date of purchase from their
authorised Dealer.
Should the product require servicing during this
period, all labour and parts used to effect repairs will
be supplied free of charge. GME reserve the right to
determine whether damage has been occasioned by
accident, misuse or improper installation whereby
the warranty would be void, including equipment
which has been damaged due to:
(a) Incorrect or reverse polarity connection to
a battery or power supply or to an incorrect
supply voltage.
(b) Operation without an antenna or by
connection to an antenna which has been
incorrectly installed, resulting in damage to
the radio’s output circuit.
(c) Non-factory modifications.
Procedure to be followed by Claimant: In the event
of a defect occurring during the warranty period,
the original Purchaser may return the defective
unit along with suitable proof of purchase date
(i.e. receipt, docket, credit card slip etc.) and a full
description of the defect to the Dealer from whom
the unit was purchased. All freight charges incurred
for transportation by the Dealer or GME are the
Purchaser’s responsibility.
GME AFTER SALES SERVICE
Your GME radio is especially designed for the
environment encountered in marine installations.
The use of all solid state circuitry, careful design and
rigorous testing, result in high reliability. Should
failure occur however, GME maintain a fully equipped
service facility and spare parts stock to meet the
Customer’s requirements long after expiry of the
warranty period.
NATIONAL DISTRIBUTOR DETAILS:
WARRANTY
A Division of
Head Office: SYDNEY- Locked Bag 2086, North Ryde, N.S.W. 1670, Australia. Tel: +61 (0)2 9844 6666 Fax : +61 (0)2 9844 6600
MELBOURNE ADELAIDE PERTH BRISBANE SYDNEY AUCKLAND
7 Micro Circuit 14 Phillips Street Unit 1 Unit 1 Unit B 24 Bishop
DANDENONG STH 3175 THEBARTON 5031 10-12 Harvard Way 89-101 Factory Road 22-24 College Street Dunn Place
Tel: (03) 9798 0988 Tel: (08) 8234 2633 CANNING VALE 6155 OXLEY 4075 GLADESVILLE 2111 BOTANY STH 2013
Fax: (03) 9798 0177 Fax: (08) 8234 5138 Tel: (08) 9455 5744 Tel: (07) 3278 6444 Tel: (02) 9879 8888 Tel: (09) 274 0955
Fax: (08) 9455 3110 Fax: (07) 3278 6555 Fax: (02) 9816 4722 Fax: (09) 274 0959
For customers outside Australia and New Zealand please contact your local GME Distributor or email: export@gme.net.au
Part Number: 310350 Drawing Number: 43464-2TA
www.gme.net.au