Cobra 148NWST User Guide

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:11 PM Page 1

How to Use Your

Contents

Features..................................................................................................1

The CB Story.........................................................................................A1

FCC Regulations
FCCWarnings
Included Accessories

Controls & Indicators.......................................................................A2

Our Thanks toYou.............................................................................A3

SoundTracker
Customer Support

Installation

Location.............................................................................................2

Mounting and Connection.........................................................2

Antennas

CB Antenna.......................................................................................6

Marine Installation.........................................................................6

Ignition Noise Interference ..........................................................7

Operating Your 148 NW ST

Turning On Your CB........................................................................8

Setting Channel Selector.............................................................9

To Receive..........................................................................................10

S-Meter...............................................................................................10

SoundTracker™System................................................................11

Activating SoundTracker™..........................................................12

NB,Off,(Noise Blanker/Limiter) Switch...................................13

Dimmer Switch................................................................................14

RF Gain Control................................................................................14

Setting Squelch...............................................................................16

ToTransmit........................................................................................20

RF Meter.............................................................................................21

External Speaker.............................................................................22

PA (Public Address)........................................................................23

Home And Office Set-Up.............................................................25

Temporary Mobile Set-up............................................................26

HowYour CB Can ServeYou..........................................................27

A Few Rules You Should Know..................................................27

Channel 9 Emergency Messages..............................................27

CB 10 Codes......................................................................................29

Frequency Ranges.............................................................................31

148 NW ST Specifications..............................................................32

Warranty Information.....................................................................33

Optional Accessories.......................................................................34

Order Form...........................................................................................36

IfYou Think You Need Service...................................Back Cover

™

Cobra 148 NW ST

Features of This Product

• 40 CB Radio Channels

• 80 SSB Channels

• SoundTracker™System

• Heavy-Duty Dynamic
Microphone

• Full 4 Watts AM RF Power Ou t p u t

• 12 Watts SSB RF Power Output

• Instant Channel 9

• Front Panel 4-Pin Microphone
Connector

• Switchable Noise Blanker

• Adjustable Dynamike Boost

• Tactile Controls

• SWRCalibration Meter

• RF Gain

• 9 Ft Mic Cord

• Illuminated Front Panel

• Dimmer Control

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC

SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)

NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE

P E R S O N N E L

!

!

1

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:11 PM Page 2

InstallationInstallation

Location

Mounting and
Connection

Note

The transceiver is held in the
universal mounting bracket by
four thumbscrews which allow
for adjustment at a convenient
angle.

The bracket includes two self­tapping screws and star wash­ers.The mounting must be
mechanically strong,conve­niently located.

Location

Plan location of transceiver and microphone
bracket before starting the installation.

Select a location that is convenient for operation,
yet does not inte rfe re with the dri ver or passenger.

The transceiver is usually mounted to the under­side of the dash with the microphone bracket
beside it.

Mounting and Connection

1

Hold the radio with the mounting bracket in
the exact desired location.If there is no inter­ference,remove the bracket and use it as a
template to mark the location for the mount­ing screws.

3

Connect the antenna cable plug to the recep­tacle marked “ANT” on the back of the unit.

2

Drill the holes and secure the bracket.

continued

32

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 4

Note

Connecting to an accessory fuse
prevents the unit from being left
on accidentally,and also per­mits operating the unit without
running the engine.

Note

In positive ground vehicles the
red wire goes to the chassis and
the black wire is connected to
the ignition switch.

6

Plug power cable into back of unit marked
“Power”. Be sure to observe polarity markings.

InstallationInstallation

Note

Before installing the CB radio,
visually check the vehicle’s
battery connection to deter­mine which terminal, positive
or negative,is grounded (pos­itive is the larger of the two)
to the engine block (or chas­sis).A negatively grounded
vehicle has its negative lead
grounded to the chassis.

4

In a negative grounded vehicle,connect the
red lead of the DC power cord to an accessory
12 volt fuse.

5

Connect the black lead to the negative side of
the vehicle.This is usually the chassis.Any con­venient location with a good electrical contact
(remove paint) may be used.

7

Mount the microphone
bracket on either side of
the unit (driver’s left)
using two screws sup­plied.Bracket should be
placed under the dash
so microphone is readily
accessible.

8

Attach the 4-pin microphone cable to recepta­cle on front of unit and Install unit in bracket
securely.

54

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 6

Ignition Noise InterferenceAntennas

CB Antenna

Note

For optimum performance in
passenger cars the ideal anten­na location is on the center of
the roof.Second choice is on the
center of the trunk.

Note

Because many newer trucks
feature fiberglass door skins,the
outside mirror must be ground­ed to the chassis via a ground
strap if the antenna is mounted
on mirror bracket.

Note

3-way Combination Antennas
are also available which allow
operation of all three bands
(AM-FM & CB),using a single
antenna.However,this type of
antenna usually results in less
than normal transmit and
receive range when compared
to a standard-type“Single
Band”CB antenna.Call 773­889-3087 for further informa­tion.

CB Antenna

Since the maximum allowable power output of
the transmitter is limited by the FCC,the antenna
is critical in affecting transmission distance.Only
a properly matched antenna system will allow
maximum power output.Cobra loaded type
antenna models are highly recommended for
most installations.Consult your Cobra dealer for
further details,or call 773.889.3087 and speak to
a Cobra representative.

1

A standard antenna connector is provided
on the transceiver for easy connection.

Marine Installation

The transceiver will not operate at maximum effi­ciency in a boat without a ground plate,(unless it
has a steel hull).Before attempting installation ,
consult your dealer for information regarding an
adequate grounding system and prevention of
electrolysis between fittings in the hull and water.

Use of a mobile receiver at low signal levels is
normally limited by the presence of electrical
noise.The primary source of noise in automobiles
is from the alternator and ignition system.
Typically,when signal level is adequate,the back­ground noise does not present a serious problem.
Also,when extremely low level signals are being
received,the transceiver may be operated with
the vehicle’s engine turned off.The unit requires
very little current and therefore will not signifi­cantly discharge the vehicle’s battery.

Even though the Cobra 148 NW ST has an auto­matic noise limiter,in some installations ignition
interference may be high enough to make good
communications impossible.Many possibilities
exist and variations between vehicles require
different solutions.Consult your COBRA dealer or
a 2-way radio technician for help in locating the
source of a severe noise.

6

7

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 8

Operation

Turning On Setting Channel

Turning On

Make sure the power cord,antenna and micro­phone are connected to their proper connectors
before starting.

1

The CB/PA button should be in the
CB position.

Setting Channel Selector

1

Select one of forty channels and adjust
volume.The selected channel is indicated by
the LED readout directly above the channel
selector knob

Operation

Selector

2

Ro t ate the On/Off Volume knob c l oc kw i s eto
a normal listening level.

8

9

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 10

Operation

To Receive

S-Meter

To Receive

1

Rotate the On/Off Volume knob clockwise
the green RT/TX LED will be illuminated.

S-Meter

Swings proportionately to strength of incoming
signal when receiving.

The SoundTrackerTMSystem

While previous systems only “blanket out”or limit
noise in higher sound frequencies, the revolution­ary new SoundTrackerTMSystem actually reduces
noise while leaving the signal intact in the recep­tion mode. In the transmission mode,it actually
strengthens the signal,providing you with a
significant reduction in noise on reception
and transmission.

Sound clarity is measured by the ratio
of the signal level to the noise level.
The higher the signal-to-noise ratio,
the better the sound.

How SoundTrackerTMWorks

On Reception - “Cuts noise coming in”

With a normal CB, distant signals fall below
the squelch level and are unintelligible.With a
SoundTrackerTMCB,the noise level is cut up to
90%,which increases the signal-to-noise ratio
and dramatically improves signal clarity.This also
allows you to significantly reduce the squelch
level,which greatly expands your listening range.

Operation

Note

SoundTracker™ gives you
clearer,cleaner reception to
improve CB communications
while on the air.

1

The S/RF-SWR-CAL switch must be in the
S/RF position to read the meter.

10

OnTransmission - “Strengthens signals going out”

A SoundTrackerTMCB strengthens the transmit
signal by more effectively using the available RF
power output of the CB.The result is improved
transmission signal clarity and an expanded
transmission range.

11

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 12

OperationOperation

Activating
SoundTracker

Activating SoundTracker™

™

NB-ANL/ANL/OFF (Noise
Blanker/Automatic Noise Limiter) Switch

NB-ANL/ANL/
OFF (Noise
Blanker/
Automatic
Noise Limiter)
Switch

Note

The RF Noise Bl a n ker is ve ry
e f fe ct i ve in reducing re pe t i t i ve
noises such as ignition

1

Push and release the ST button.Red LED
is illuminated when SoundTracker™ is
turned on.

1

When switched to ANL the Automatic Noise
Limiter is activated.This helps reduce noise
created by the vehicle’s electronics.
When switched to NB/ANL position the RF
Noise Blanker is also activated,providing
increased noise filtration.
When switched to OFF position all noise
filtration will be turned off.

Hi/LowTone Control

i n te rfe re n ce.
The Automatic Noise Limiter
helps reduce noise created by
the vehicle’s electronics.

Hi/Low/ Tone
Control

1

to When switc h e d,this button is used to shape the

audio re s ponse to the ope rato r’s pre fe re n ce.

1312

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 14

OperationOperation

Dimmer Control

RF Gain Control

Note

The RF Gain is used to optimize
reception in weak signal areas.

Dimmer Control

Controls the brightness of the front panel,signal
strength meter and channel display

For maximum brightness turn clockwise;
counterclockwise for minimum illumination

RF Gain Control

The RF Gain is used to optimize reception in
strong or weak signal areas.

USB/AM/LSB Switch

Select mode of operation from USB to AM

1

to LSB

Voice Lock

1

Rotatethe RF Gain knob counterclockwise
to reduce gain in strong signal areas.In weak
signal areas turn clockwise to increase gain.

1

to Ro t ate to clarify re ce i ve r’s fre q u e n c i e s

a bove and be l ow assigned fre q u e n c i e s.
Pri m a rily used to tune SSB signals as we l l
as optimizing AM signals.

1514

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 16

Operation Operation

Setting Squelch

Gate closed

Gate open

Setting Squelch

Squelch is the “control gate”for incoming signals.

1

Full clockwise rotation closes the gate
allowing only very strong signals to enter.

2

Full counterclockwise rotation opens the
“gate”allowing all signals in.

To achieve the Desired Squelch Setting (DSS),

3

turn the Squelch control counterclockwise
until you hear noise. Now turn the control
clockwise just until the noise stops. This is the
DSS setting.

Gate set to Desired
Squelch Setting (DSS)

1716

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 18

OperationOperation

Calibrate For
SWR (Standing
Wave Ratio)

Note

SWR calibration is done to prop­erly adjust the length of the
antenna and to monitor the
quality of the coaxial cable and
all RF connections.
This calibration is critical in
order to achieve optimum per­formance.

Calibrate for SWR (Standing Wave Ratio)

1

Select channel 20.

2

Switchto the CAL position.

4

While holding mic
button adjust the
SWR CAL knob so the
meter needle swings
to the CAL ▼ mark on
the meter (located on the right). If optimum
signal is not achieved (less than 3) a

slight
adjustment to the length of the antenna must
be made.Recalibrate.

5

Repeat the same steps on Channel 1 and 40.

6

Continue holding the mic button and turn the
SWR CAL knob to the SWR position for SWR
measurement.

Note

Calibration must be made in an
open area (never in a garage).
Vehicle doors must be closed.No
one should be standing near the
antenna.(See your antenna
directions for more complete
information).

Note

The reading will be slightly high­er on Channels 1 and 40 com­pared to Channel 20.

Note

When switched to SWR position
the meter needle should ideally
be as far to the left as possible.
Anything over 3 is not accept­able.A slight antenna height
adjustment (higher or lower)
may be required.Repeat recali­bration step.

3

Push and hold mic button.

1918

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 20

Operation Operation

To Transmit

Caution!

Be sure the antenna is properly
connected to the radio before
transmitting.Prolonged trans­mitting without an antenna,or
a poorly matched antenna,
could cause damage to the
transmitter.

Be sure to read the F.C.C.Rules
and Regulations included with
this unit before transmitting.

Setting
Dynamike

ToTransmit

1

Select desired channel.

Setting Dynamike

This controls the microphone sensitivity
(outgoing audio level).

Transmit

1

Press and hold mic button to transmit.
Transmitter is now activated.When transmit­ting,hold the microphone two inches from
your mouth and speak in a clear,normal voice.

Release to receive.

RF Meter

This meter swings proportionately to the RF
output (outgoing signal) while transmitting.

Transmit

RF Meter

1

Initially,set fully clockwise so that maxi­mum voice volume is available.Dynamike
may have to be reduced in some conditions.

20

The S/RF-SWR-CAL switch must be in the

1

S/RF position.

21

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 22

OperationOperation

External Speaker

Note

The external speaker should
have 8-ohm impedance and be
rated to handle at least 4.0
watts.When the external speak­er is plugged in,the internal
speaker is automatically discon­nected.

Note

Cobra external speakers are
rated at 10 watts.See
Accessories page 39.

External Speaker

The external speaker jack is used for remote
receiver monitoring.

1

Connect an external speaker to the external
speaker jack on the rear panel.

PA (Public Address)

1

Connect an external PA speaker to the PA jack

on the rear panel.

2

Set CB/PA switch to PA position.

PA (Public
Address)

Note

Speaker should have 8-ohm
impedance and be rated to
handle at least 4.0 watts.

Note

The speaker should be directed
away from the microphone to
prevent acoustic feedback.

Note

Activity on the CB channel will
be heard through the PA speak­er.Adjust volume control to a
normal listening level.

22

23

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 24

OperationOperation

3

Push and hold microphone button and speak
in a normal voice.Your voice will now transmit
on the PA speaker.

4

Adjust PA speaker volume with the

Dynamike control.

Base Station Operation
(From 120V AC House Current)

To operate your transceiver from home or office
you will need a 13.8 volt DC Power Pack rated at a
minimum of 2 amps,and a properly installed base
station antenna.

1

Simply connect the red (+) and black (-)
leads of the transceiver to the corresponding
terminals of the power pack.

Base Station
Operation
(From 120V AC
House Current)

Warning!

Do not attempt to operate this
transceiver by connecting it
directly to 120 vac.

Note

For further information call
Cobra Customer Service

1.773.889.3087.

2524

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 26

Temporary Mobile Set-Up

2

Plug power cable into back of unit marked
“Power”. Be sure to observe polarity markings.

3

Connect properly installed and matched base
station antenna.

Temporary
Mobile Set-Up

Temporary Mobile Operation

For temporary mobile operation you may want to
purchase an optional cigarette lighter adapter
from your COBRA dealer.This adapter and a mag­netic mount antenna allow you to quickly “install”
your transceiver for temporary use.

How Your CB Can Serve You

• Warn of traffic problems

• Provide weather and road data

• Provide help in event of an emergency

• Provide direct contact with home or office

• Assist police by reporting erratic drivers

• Get “local information”to find destination

• Communicate with family and friends

• Suggest spots to eat and sleep

• Keep you alert while driving

A Few Rules
You Should
Know

Channel 9
Emergency
Messages

Note

If no response on channel 9,
try channels 19 or 14.

A Few Rules You Should Know

A. Co nve r s ations cannot last more than 5 minute s

with another station. A one minute break is
required to let others use the channel.

B. You cannot blast others off the air by use of

illegally amplified transmitters or illegally

high antennas.
C. You cannot use CB to promote illegal activities.
D. Profanity is not allowed.
E. You may not transmit music with a CB.
F. Selling of merchandise and/or services is

prohibited.

1. Set to channel 9 for emergencies

Be sure antenna is properly connected.

2. CB Distress Data

When transmitting an emergency, you should

request a “REACT BASE”and provide the CB

distress data (called CLIP):

C all Sign Identify yourself.
L ocation Be exact.

I njuries Number.Type.Trapped?

P roblem Give details and help needed.

Transmit C L I P re pe atedly so any monitor can assist.

26

27

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 28

How Your CB Can Serve You How Your CB Can Serve You

The FCC gives these examples of permitted and
prohibited messages for channel 9. These are
only guidelines and not all-inclusive:

Permitted Example Message

Yes “Tornado sighted six miles north

of town.”

No “Post number 10.

No tornado sighted.”

Yes “Out of gas on I-95 at mile

marker 211.”

No “Out of gas in my driveway.”
Yes “Four car accident on I-94 at

Exit 11. Send police and
ambulance.”

No “Traffic moving smoothly on I-94.”
Yes “Weather Bureau has issued

thunderstorm warning.
Bring sailboat into port.”

No “Attention motorists.

Weather Bureau advises snow
tomorrow will accumulate
4 to 6 inches.”

Yes “Fire in building at 539 Main,

Evanston.”

No “Halloween patrol number 3.

All quiet.”

CB 10-Codes

Citizen Bands have adopted the “10-CODES”for
standard questions and answers. These codes
p rovide quick and easy co m m u n i cat i o n ,e s pe c i a l l y
in noisy areas. Following are some of the more
common codes and meanings:

Code Meaning

10-1 Receiving poorly
10-2 Receiving well
10-3 Stop transmitting
10-4 OK,message received
10-5 Relay message
10-6 Busy,stand by
10-7 Out of service,leaving
10-8 In service,subject to call
10-9 Repeat message
10-10 Transmission completed standing by
10-11 Talking too rapidly
10-12 Visitors present
10-13 Advise weather/roads
10-16 Make pick up at
10-17 Urgent business
10-18 Anything for us?
10-19 Return to base
10-20 My location is
10-21 Call by phone
10-22 Report in person to
10-23 Stand by
10-24 Completed last assignment
10-25 Can you contact
10-26 Disregard last info
10-27 Moving to channel
10-28 Identify your station

CB 10-Codes

28

29

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 30

Frequency RangesHow Your CB Can Serve You

Code Meaning

10-29 Time is up for contact
10-30 Does not conform to FCC rules
10-33 Emergency traffic
10-34 Trouble at this station
10-35 Confidential information
10-36 Correct time is
10-37 Wrecker needed at
10-38 Ambulance needed
10-39 Message delivered
10-41 Turn to channel
10-42 Traffic accident at
10-43 Traffic tie up at
10-44 Have a message for
10-45 All units within range please report
10-50 Break channel
10-60 What is next message number?
10-62 Unable to copy.Use phone
10-63 Net directed to
10-64 Net clear
10-65 Awaiting your next message/assignment
10-67 All units comply
10-70 Fire at
10-71 Proceed, transmission in sequence
10-77 Negative contact
10-81 Reserve hotel room for
10-82 Reserve room for
10-85 My address is
10-91 Talk closer to mic
10-93 Check my frequency on this channel
10-94 Give me a long count
10-99 Mission completed,all units secure
10-200 Police needed at

The COBRA 148 NW ST transceiver represents
one of the most advanced AM two-way radios
used as a Class D station in the Citizens Radio
Service.This unit features advanced Phase Lock
Loop (PLL) circuitry providing complete cover­age of all 40 CB channels.

Channel Channel
CB Freq. CB Freq.
Channel In MHz Channel In MHz

1 26.965 21 27.215
2 26.975 22 27.225
3 26.985 23 27.255
4 27.005 24 27.235
5 27.015 25 27.245

6 27.025 26 27.265
7 27.035 27 27.275
8 27.055 28 27.285
9 27.065 29 27.295
10 27.075 30 27.305

11 27.085 31 27.315
12 27.105 32 27.325
13 27.115 33 27.335
14 27.125 34 27.345
15 27.135 35 27.355

16 27.155 36 27.365
17 27.165 37 27.375
18 27.175 38 27.385
19 27.185 39 27.395
20 27.205 40 27.405

3130

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 32

Limited One Year Warranty148 NW ST Specifications

G E N E RA L

C H A N N E L S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 AM,40 LSB,40 USB

FREQUENCY RA N G E. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26.965 TO 27.405 MHZ

FREQUENCY CO N T RO L. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PHASE LOCK LOOP (PPL) SYNTHESIZER

FREQUENCY TO L E RA N C E. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0 . 0 0 5 %

FREQUENCY STA B I L I TY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0 . 0 0 1 %

O P E RATING T E M P E RATURE RA N G E. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .-30° C TO +50° C

M I C RO P H O N E. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .P LUG-IN DYNAMIC WITH PUSH-TO - T ALK SWITC H

INPUT VO L TAG E. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13.8V DC NOM.15.9V MAX . ,11.7V MIN.

CURRENT DRA I N. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .T RA N S M I T : AM FULL MOD. ,2 . 2 A .SSB 12

S I Z E. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 - 3 / 8 ”H X 7-7/8”W X 9-1/4”D

W E I G H T. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 LBS.

ANTENNA CO N N E C TO R. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U H F ; S O - 2 3 9

M E T E R. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .I L LU M I N AT E D ;I N D I CATES RELATIVE POWER

T RA N S M I TT E R

P OWER OUTPUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .AM 4 WATTS ,SSB 12 WATTS ,P E P

M O D U LAT I O N. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .HIGH- AND LOW - L EVEL CLASS B,AMPLITUDE

I N T E R M O D U LATION DISTO RT I O N. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .S S B :3RD ORDER,MORE THAN -25d B

SSB CARRIER SUPPRESSION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 d B

U N WANTED SIDEBA N D. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 d B

FREQUENCY RESPONSE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .AM AND SSB;300 TO 2500 HZ

OUTPUT IMPEDANCE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 OHMS,U N BA LA N C E D

OUTPUT INDICATO R S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .METER SHOWS RELATIVE RF OUTPUT POWER

R E C E I V E R

S E N S I T I V I TY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .S S B :0.25 µV FOR 10 d B(S+N) /N AT

S E L E C T I V I TY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A M :7.8 KHZ,50 d B@ 9KHZ

I M AGE REJECTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .MORE THAN 65 d B

A D J ACENT-CHANNEL REJECTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60 d BAM & 70 d BS S B

IF FREQUENCIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A M :7.8MHZ 1ST IF,455 KHZ 2 ND IF

AM & SSB RF GAIN CO N T ROL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 d BA D J U S TABLE FOR OPTIMUM SIGNAL

R E C E P T I O N

AU TO M ATIC GAIN CO N T ROL (AG C ). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .LESS THAN 10 d BCHANGE IN AUDIO OUTPUT

FOR INPUTS FROM 10 TO 100,000 MICRO VO L TS

NOISE BLA N K E R. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .RF TY P E,EFFECTIVE ON AM AND SSB

A N L. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .S W I TC H A B L E

S Q U E LC H. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A D J U S TA B L E ;THRESHOLD LESS THAN 0.25 µV

VOICE LOCK RA N G E. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .+/- 1.5 KHZ

AUDIO OUTPUT POW E R. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 WATTS INTO 8 OHMS

FREQUENCY RESPONSE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .300 TO 2500 HZ

D I S TO RT I O N. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .LESS THAN 0 % @ 0 WATTS @ 0000 HZ??

BU I LT-IN SPEAKER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 OHMS,5 WATTS

E XTERNAL SPEAKER (NOT SUPPLIED). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 OHMS;DISABLES INTERNAL SPEAKER WHEN

CO N N E C T E D

PA SYS T E M

P OWER OUTPUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 WATTS INTO EXTERNAL SPEAKER

E XTERNAL SPEAKER FOR PA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 OHM,4 WATTS MIN.

( N OT SUPPLIED)
( S P E C I F I CATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOT I C E )

(POSITIVE OR NEGATIVE GROUND)
WATTS PEP OUTPUT,2 A .

R E C E I V E :S Q U E LC H E D,0 . 2 5 A ;M AX . AUDIO
O U T P U T,0 . 6 A .

CO LOR LIGHT EMITTING DIODE
O U T P U T,RECEIVED SIGNAL STRENGTH AND VS W R

M O D U LAT I O N
5TH ORDER,MORE THAN -35d B

AND SWR.T RANSMIT LED GLOWS RED
WHEN T RA N S M I TTER IS IN OPERAT I O N .

G R E ATER THAN 1/2-WATT OF AUDIO OUTPUT
A M :0.5 µV FOR 10 d B(S+N) /N AT
G R E ATER THAN 1/2-WATT OF AUDIO OUTPUT

S S B :6 d B@ 1.1 KHZ,60 d B @ 2.3 KHZ

S S B :8.7 MHZ

CO B RA ELECTRONICS CO R P O RAT I O Nwa rra nts that its
CO B RA CB ra d i o s,and the co m po n e nt parts there o f , will be
f ree of defe cts in wo rkmanship and mate rials for pe ri od of
two (2) year from date of first consumer purc h a s e.This wa r­ra nty may be enfo rced by the first consumer purc h a s e r,p ro­vided that the prod u ct is utilized within the U.S.A.
CO B RA will,without charg e,repair or re p l a ce,at its option,
d e fe ct i ve CB ra d i o s,p rod u cts or co m po n e nt parts upo n
d e l i ve ry to the CO B RA facto ry Se rv i ce De p a rt m e nt,a c co m­panied by proof of the date of first consumer purc h a s e,s u c h
as a duplicated co py of a sales re ce i p t .
You must pay any initial shipping charges re q u i red to ship
the prod u ct for wa rra nty serv i ce,but the re t u rn charges will
be at Co b ra’s ex pe n s e,if the prod u ct is re p a i red or re p l a ce d
under wa rra nty.
Exc l u s i o n s:This limited wa rra nty does not apply;1.) to any
p rod u ct damaged by accident ;2.) in the eve nt of misuse or
abuse of the prod u ct or as a result of unauthori zed alte r­ations or re p a i r s ;3.) if the serial number has been alte re d,
d e f a ced or re m ove d ;4.) if the owner of the prod u ct re s i d e s
outside the U.S.A.
All implied wa rra nt i e s,including wa rra nties of merc h a nt a b i l i­ty and fitness for a particular purpose are limited in durat i o n
to the length of this wa rra nty.CO B RA shall not be liable fo r
a ny incident a l ,co n s e q u e ntial or other damages;i n c l u d i n g,
without limitat i o n ,damages resulting from loss of use or
cost of installat i o n .
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied
wa rra nty lasts and / or do not allow the exclusion or limita­tion of incidental or co n s e q u e ntial damages,so the above
l i m i t ations may not apply to yo u.

All implied wa rra nt i e s,including wa rra nties of mer­c h a nt a b i l i ty and fitness for a particular purpose are lim­i ted in duration to the length of this wa rra nty.CO B RA
shall not be liable for any incident a l ,co n s e q u e ntial or
other damages;i n c l u d i n g,without limitat i o n ,d a m a g e s
resulting from loss of use or cost of installat i o n .
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an
implied wa rra nty lasts and / or do not allow the exc l u­sion or limitation of incidental or co n s e q u e ntial dam­a g e s,so the above limitations may not apply to yo u.

Cobra Electronics
Corporation

6500 West Cortland Street
Chicago,Illinois 60707

3332

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 34

Optional AccessoriesOptional Accessories

Replacement DC Power Cord

For in vehicle use
420-071-9-001 $7.50

Replacement Microphone
Bracket

For in vehicle use
741-080-9-001 $0.45

39”Full Range Base Load,
Magnetic Mount Antenna

For in vehicle use
AT 70 $24.95

Replacement Mounting
Bracket

For in vehicle use
250-044-N-001 $4.50

28”Full Range Center Load,
Magnetic Mount Antenna

For in vehicle use
AT 35 $19.95

44”Full Range,Center Load,
Dual Band CB/WX Antenna

Allows greater transmission
range while in a moving vehicle.
ATW- 4 0 0 $ 2 7 . 9 5

Replacement Thumb Screws

For in vehicle use
634-088-9-001 $0.60

25”Glass Mount Antenna

For in vehicle use
AT 55 $27.95

Replacement Dynamic
Microphone

For in vehicle use
CA 73 $12.95

Power Microphone

For in vehicle use
CA 75 $21.95

Dynamic External Speaker

For in vehicle use
CS 100 $14.95

Noise Canceling/Power
Microphone

For in vehicle use
CA 77 $24.95

Noise Canceling External
Speaker

For in vehicle use
CS 300 $19.95

Echo/Noise Canceling
Microphone

For in vehicle use
CA 79 $59.95

Dynamic Noise Canceling
With Talk Back External
Speaker

For in vehicle use
CS 500 $24.95

You Can Find These Fine Accessories AtYour Local
Cobra CB Dealer

If you wish,you can order directly from Cobra.

Order by phone

Call 1.773.889.3087
(Press 1 from the main menu) 8 a.m.-8 p.m. M-F CST.

Order by mail or fax

Please fill out order form on next page,and mail/fax directly
to Cobra.

3534

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 36

Accessory Order Form

Item # Description Cost Ea. Qty. Amount

4 2 0 - 0 7 1 - 9 - 0 0 1 Re p l a ce m e nt DC Power Co rd $ 7 . 5 0
2 5 0 - 0 4 4 - N - 0 0 1 Re p l a ce m e nt Mo u nting Bra c ke t $ 4 . 5 0
634-088-9-001 Replacement Thumb Screws $0.60
741-080-9-001 Replacement Microphone Bracket $0.45
AT 35 28”Full Range Center Load,

Magnetic Mount Antenna $19.95
AT 55 25”Glass Mount Antenna $27.95
AT 70 39”Full Range Base Load,

Magnetic Mount Antenna $24.95
ATW 400 44”Full Range,Center Load,

Dual Band CB/WX Antenna $27.95

Replacement Dynamic Microphone

Noise Canceling/Power Microphone

With Talk Back External Speaker $24.95

Michigan residents add 4 %
Ohio residents add 6%
Wisconsin residents add 5%

Shipping & Handling

Amount of Shipping/
Order Handling

$25.00 and under $4.75 minimum
$25.01-$40.00 $6.95
$40.01-$80.00 $9.00
$80.01-$120.00 $10.00
$120.01-$160.00 $11.50
$160.01 and up $14.25

For AK,HI and PR please add
an additional $15.00 for UPS
shipments.

CA 73
CA 75 Power Microphone $21.95
CA 77
CA79 Echo/Noise Canceling Microphone $59.95
CS 100 Dynamic External Speaker $14.95
CS 300 Noise Canceling External Speaker $19.95
CS 500 Dynamic Noise Canceling

Prices subject to change without notice.

Tax Table

Illinois residents add 7%
Cook Co.residents add .75% (7.75% total)
Chicago residents add 1% (8.75% total)
Indiana residents add 5%

For credit card orders fill out order form
and fax to: 1.773.622.2269
or call 1.773.889.3087
(Press 1 from the main menu)

Please print clearly

Name
Address (No P.O.Box)

City State
Zip
Telephone ( )
Credit Card No. Exp.Date
Customer Signature
Circle One: Visa MasterCard Discover

Allow 4 to 6 weeks for delivery.Offer valid in Continental U.S.only.

$12.95

$24.95

Subtotal
(Tax if applicable)
Shipping/handling

Total

8:00 am - 8:00 pm,M-F,CST.
Ma ke check or money order (no stamps)
payable to:
Cobra Accessories Dept.
6500 West Co rtland St .Ch i ca g o,IL 60707

36

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 37

Cobra Electronics Corporation
6500 West Cortland Street
Chicago, IL60707

148 NW ST

IfYou Think You Need Service

For te c h n i cal assistance,please call our Au to m a ted Help Desk which can assist
you by answering the most fre q u e n t ly asked questions about Co b ra prod u ct s.

[phone]

A Consumer Service Representative can be reached through this same number

Technical assistance is also available on-line in the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section at

If you think you need service call 1.773.889.3087

“If your product should require factory service please call Cobra first before sending your unit in.
This will ensure the fastest turn-around time on your repair.”

You may be asked to send your unit to the Co b ra facto ry. It will be nece s s a ry to
f u rnish the fo l l owing in order to have the prod u ct serv i ced and re t u rn e d.
1 . For Wa rra nty Repair include some fo rm of proo f - o f - p u rc h a s e, such as a

m e c h a n i cal re p rod u ction or ca r bon or a sales re ce i p t . If you send the ori g i n a l

re ceipt it cannot be re t u rn e d.
2 . Send the ent i re prod u ct .
3 . Enclose a description of what is happening with the unit. Include a ty ped or

c l e a rly pri nt name and address of where the unit is to be re t u rn e d.

4 . Pack unit securely to preve nt damage in tra n s i t . If po s s i b l e, use the ori g i n a l

p a c king mate ri a l .

5 . Ship prepaid and insured by way of a tra ceable ca rrier such as Un i ted Pa rce l

Se rv i ce (UPS) or First Class Ma i l : to avoid loss in transit to : Co b ra Fa cto ry

Se rv i ce, Co b ra El e ct ronics Co rpo rat i o n , 6500 W. Co rtland St . , Ch i ca g o, I L

6 0 7 0 7 .
6 . If the unit is in wa rra nty, u pon re ceipt of your unit it will either be re p a i re d

or exchanged depending on the mod e l . Please allow approx i m ately 3 to 4
weeks be fo re co nt a cting us for stat u s. If the unit is out of wa rra nty a lette r
will auto m at i cally be sent info rming you of the repair charge or re p l a ce m e nt
c h a rg e. If you have any questions, please call 1.773.889.3087 for assistance.

Cobra Electronics Corp.© 1999
Printed in China

Part No. 480-301-P-001

8:00 am - 8:00 pm,Monday through Friday, CST.

www.cobraelec.com or by e-mail to [e-mail]

24 hours a day,7 days a week.

O pe rating Instru ctions
for your Co b ra 148 NW ST

CB Radio

“Ingenious Prod u cts for Easier Co m m u n i cat i o n .”

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 39

The Citizens Band lies between the shortwave
broadcast and 10-meter Amateur radio bands,
and was established by law in 1949. The Class D
two-way communications service was opened in

1959.(CB also includes a Class A citizens band

2

and Class C remote control frequencies.)

The CB Story

1

FCC Regulations

FCC regulations permit only “transmissions”
(one party to another) rather than “broadcasts”
(to a wide audience).Thus,advertising is not
allowed on CB Channels because that is “broad­casting.”

FCCWarnings

All transmitter adjustments other than those

3

4

supplied by the manufacturer as front panel
operating controls,must be made by,or under
the supervision of,the holder of an FCC-issued
General Radio-Telephone Operator’s License.

Replacement or substitution of transistors, regular
diodes or other parts of a unique nature,with
parts other than those recommended by Cobra,
may cause violation of the technical regulations
of Part 95 of the FCC Rules,or violation of Type
Acceptance requirements of Part 2 of the Rules.

You should read and understand Part 95 (included
with this unit) of the FCC Rules and Regulations,
before operating your Cobra radio,even though
the FCC no longer requires you to obtain an oper­ator’s license.

What’s Included with Your 148 NW ST

5

1. CB transceiver 6. DC power cord

2. Microphone 7. FCC rules

3. Transceiver bracket 1. (not shown)

4. Microphone bracket

5. Operating Manual

A1

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 40

Controls and Indicators

1. 4 - Pin Mi c ro p h o n e

Co n n e cto r

2. Power On/Off,Volume

3. Squelch

4. RFGain/SWRCal

5. Dynamike

6. Vo i ce l oc k

7. Dimmer Co n t ro l

8. Channel Selector

9. LED Channel Display

1 0 . SoundTracker™ LED 11 .
11 . RX(Receive)/TX(Transmit)

LED Indicator

1 2 . SoundTracker™ On/Off
13 . Hi/LoTone Switch
14 . USB/AM / LSB Switch
1 5 . S/RF/CAL/SWR Switch
1 6 . CB/PA Switch
1 7 . NB/ANL/ANL/Off Switch
1 8 . Signal Strength Meter
1 9 . Microphone

Back Side

2 0 . Public Address Speaker

Jack

2 1 . External Speaker Jack
2 2 . Antenna Connector
2 3 . Power Jack

1 8

1

1 6

1 7

2 4 5
3

1 9

1 3

1 1

1 41 5

6 7 8

2 0 2 1

2 2 2 3

1 0
1 2

Our Thanks to You

Thank you for purchasing the Cobra 148 NW ST
CB Radio.Properly used,this Cobra product will
give you many years of reliable service.

SoundTracker

TM

“Cuts noise coming in...strengthens signals
going out.”

This Patent pending technology dramatically
improves transmission and reception of CB
signals.

The revolutionary SoundTrackerTMSystem recon­figures the transmission signal which allows it to
be transferred more efficiently through cluttered
airwaves.

9

At the same time,it significantly reduces the
amount of static on all incoming CB signals.

The end result is a cleaner, clearer sounding
reception of signals and a more powerful
transmission which dramatically improves
CB communications.

Customer Support

Should you encounter any problems with the
product or not understand its many features,
please refer to this owner’s manual. If ,after
referring to the manual,you still need help,
call Cobra Customer Service at 773.889.3087.

Cobra Customer Service

Live operators are available
M-F 8:00 am - 8:00 pm CST at:

773.889.3087
Automated Technical Assistance

available 24 hours a day,seven
days a week.E-mail questions
to:
[e-mail]

Cobra on the World Wide Web:
Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQ) can be found on-line at:
www.cobraelec.com

A2

A3

148 NW ST manual 3.3 6/15/99 3:12 PM Page 43

Notes Notes

NotesNotes