Cobra HH300 VP User Manual

A1

English

Our Thanks to You and
Customer Assistance

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing a CobraMarine™VHF radio.
Properly used, this Cobra®product will give you
many years of reliable service.

How Your CobraMarine

™

VHF Radio Works

This radio is a battery powered portable transceiver for use afloat. It gives you
2-way vessel-to-vessel and vessel-to-shore station communications, primarily
for safety and secondarily for navigation and operational purposes. With it, you
can call for help, get information from other boaters, talk to lock or bridge tenders,
and make radiotelephone calls to anywhere in the world through a marine operator.

Besides 2-way communications, the radio can provide quick access to receive
all 10 NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) weather
channels and alert you to weather emergencies with a tone on a
weather channel you can select for your area.

Customer Assistance

Should you encounter any problems with this product, or not understand
its many features, please refer to this owner’s manual. If you require further
assistance after reading this manual, Cobra®Electronics offers the following
customer assistance services:

For Assistance in The U.S.A.

Automated Help Desk English only.
24 hours a day, 7 days a week 773-889-3087 (phone).

Customer Assistance Operators English and Spanish.
8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT Mon. through Fri. (except holidays) 773-889-3087 (phone).

Questions English and Spanish.
Faxes can be received at 773-622-2269 (fax).

Technical Assistance English only.
www.cobra.com (on-line: Frequently Asked Questions).
English and Spanish. [e-mail] (e-mail).

For Assistance Outside The U.S.A.

Contact Your Local Dealer

Customer Assistance

©2004 Cobra®Electronics Corporation

6500 West Cortland Street

Chicago, Illinois 60707 USA

www.cobra.com

VHF MARINE RADIO

MR HH300 VP

Printed in China

Part No. 480-185-P

Owner’s Manual

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

English

A1

Español

Agradecimiento y
asistencia al cliente

Introducción

Gracias por adquirir un radio VHF CobraMarine™.
Este producto Cobra®le brindará muchos años
de servicio sin problemas si lo usa correctamente.

Cómo funciona el radio VHF CobraMarine

™

Este radio es un transceptor portátil alimentado con baterías para uso a bordo de
una embarcación. El mismo permite la comunicación bidireccional, tanto entre una
embarcación y otra como entre una embarcación y la costa, principalmente para fines
de seguridad aunque también para fines de navegación y operación. Con este radio
usted puede pedir ayuda, recibir información proveniente de la tripulación de otras
embarcaciones, hablarle a operadores de esclusas y puentes levadizos, y realizar
llamadas radiotelefónicas a cualquier parte del mundo a través de un operador marítimo.

Además de permitir comunicaciones bidireccionales, el radio puede proporcionar un
acceso rápido para recepción de los 10 canales de información meteorológica de la
Administración nacional del océano y la atmósfera (NOAA, National Oceanographic and
Atmospheric Administration), y avisarle sobre emergencias relacionadas con mal tiempo
mediante un tono recibido en un canal meteorológico que usted selecciona de acuerdo a
su área.

Asistencia al cliente

Si se le presenta algún problema con este producto o tiene dificultad para entender
alguna de sus funciones, consulte el manual del propietario. Si no encuentra la
respuesta después de consultar el manual, Cobra®Electronics ofrece los siguientes
servicios de asistencia al cliente:

Para obtener asistencia en EE.UU.

Sistema de ayuda automatizada Inglés solamente.
Las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana; teléfono [phone].

Operadores de asistencia al cliente Inglés y español.
9:00 a. m. a 7:00 p. m. (hora estándar del Este de EE.UU.), de lunes a viernes
(excepto días feriados); teléfono [phone].

Preguntas Inglés y español.
Para comunicarse por fax llame al número [phone].

Asistencia técnica Inglés solamente.
www.cobra.com [en línea: Frequently Asked Questions (preguntas frecuentes)].
Inglés y español. [e-mail] (correo electrónico).

Para obtener asistencia fuera de los EE.UU.

Comuníquese con el concesionario local.

Asistencia al cliente

©2004 Cobra®Electronics Corporation

6500 West Cortland Street

Chicago, Illinois 60707 USA

www.cobra.com

RADIO VHF PARA SERVICIO MARÍTIMO

MR HH300 VP

Impreso en China

Nº de pieza 480-185-P

Manual del propietario

Nada se compara a Cobra

®

Español

A3

English

Backlit LCD Screen
and Product Features

Introduction

Dual Power

Selectable to one or five watts
output power for near or distant calling.

USA/International/Canada Channels

Allows operation on any of the three
different channel maps established for
these areas.

10 NOAA Weather Channels

Instant access to all of the National
Weather Channels, 24 hours a day.

Emergency Weather Alert

Can alert you with an audible tone
and visual alarm if threatening
weather is nearby.

Waterproof

Submersible to one meter of water
for 30 minutes — meets JIS7 Standards.

Channel Scan

Lets you scan through channels to
find conversations in progress.

Instant Channel 16/9

Instant access to priority Channel 16
and calling Channel 9.

Dual-Watch

Lets you monitor two channels
at once — Channel 16 and one
user programmable channel.

Product Features

•

Weather
Channel
Icon

Battery

Power Icon

Simplex
Operation
Icon

Dual Watch
Icon

Channel

Numbers

Scan

Icon

Button
Lock
Icon

U-I-C Active
Channel Map
Icons

Received
Signal
Strength
Icons

High/Low
Power Icons

Weather
Alert Icon

Transmit
Icon

Backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen

•

A2

English

Radio Controls
And Indicators

Introduction

Dual-Watch/
Scan Button

Instant
Channel
16/9 Button

Backlit
LCD Screen

Wrist
Strap
Connector

Weather/
UIC Button

High/Low
Power Button

Speaker/
Microphone

Channel
Up/Down
Buttons

Talk
Button

Antenna

Belt Clip
Engagement
Knob

Battery
Compartment

Squelch
Knob

On-Off Power/
Volume Knob

Backlight/
Key Lock
Button

Charging
Contacts

Intro Operation Customer

Secondary Icons

Intro Operation Customer

Secondary Icons

Intro Operation Customer

Secondary Icons

Intro Operation Customer

Secondary Icons

A3

Español

Pantalla de cristal líquido y
características del producto

Introducción

Dos niveles de potencia

Potencia de salida seleccionable entre
uno y cinco vatios para llamadas cercanas o
distantes.

Canales de EE.UU., Canadá e internacionales

Permite el funcionamiento en cualquiera
de los tres diferentes mapas de canales
establecidos para estas áreas.

10 canales meteorológicos de la NOAA

Acceso instantáneo a todos los canales
meteorológicos nacionales, las 24 horas
del día.

Aviso meteorológico de emergencia

Puede avisarle mediante un tono audible y
una alarma visible si el estado del tiempo
representa un peligro en las cercanías.

Impermeable

Sumergible en agua hasta una profundidad
de un metro durante 30 minutos; satisface
la norma JIS7.

Rastreo

Le permite rastrear todos los canales para
encontrar conversaciones.

Acceso instantáneo al canal 16/9

Acceso instantáneo al canal prioritario 16 y
al canal de llamada 9.

Vigilancia de dos canales

Le permite monitorear dos canales a la vez:
el canal 16 y un canal programable por
el usuario.

Características del producto

•

Icono de canal
meteorológico

Icono

de carga

de las baterías

Icono de
operación
símplex

Icono de vigilancia
de dos canales

Números

de canal

Icono

de rastreo

Icono de
bloqueo
de botones

Iconos de mapa
de canales
activos U-I-C

Iconos de
intensidad
de la señal
recibida

Iconos de alta
y baja potencia

Icono de aviso
meteorológico

Icono de
transmisión

Pantalla de cristal líquido (LCD) iluminada

•

Botón de rastreo
y vigilancia
de dos canales

Botón de
acceso
instantáneo al
canal 16/9

Pantalla de
cristal líquido
iluminada

Conector
de correa para
la muñeca

Botón de
meteorología/UIC

Botón de alta y
baja potencia

Altoparlante
y micrófono

Botones de
selección
de canal

Botón de
transmisión

Antena

Pieza de enganche
de la pinza para
el cinturón

Compartimiento
de baterías

Perilla de reducción
de ruido de fondo

Perilla de encendido,
apagado y volumen

Botón de
luz de fondo
y bloqueo
de teclas

Contactos
de carga

A2

Español

Controles e indicadores del radio

Introducción

Introduction

Assistance

Warranty

Table of Contents

Introduction

Our thanks to you . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1

Customer assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1

Radio controls and indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2

Backlit LCD screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3

Product features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3

Important safety information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Recommendations for marine communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

FCC licensing information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

VHF marine radio procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Voice calling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Radiotelephone calls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Emergency messages and distress procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

VHF marine channel assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

NOAA weather channels and alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Installation

Included in this package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Antenna, wrist strap, and belt clip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Batteries and charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Operating Your Radio

Getting started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Standby/Receive and transmit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

NOAA all hazards/weather radio and alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Advanced operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Warranty

Limited 3-Year warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Customer Service

Product service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Order form and optional accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

1

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

Warranty

Introduction

Important Safety Information

Introduction

Important Safety Information

Important safety information

Before assembling and using your CobraMarine™VHF radio,
please read these general precautions and warnings.

Warning and caution statements

To make the most of this radio, it must be assembled and used properly. Please read
the assembly and operating instructions carefully before assembling and using it.
Special attention must be paid to the WARNING and CAUTION statements in this manual.

WARNING

Statements identify conditions that could result in personal injury or loss of life.

CAUTION

Statements identify conditions that could cause damage to the radio
or other equipment.

Safety training information

This CobraMarine™radio is designed for and classified as “Occupational Use Only.”
It must only be used in the course of employment by individuals aware of both the
hazards and the ways to minimize those hazards. This radio is NOT intended for
use in an uncontrolled environment by the “General Population.”

This radio has been tested and complies with the FCC RF exposure limits for
“Occupational Use Only.” This CobraMarine™VHF radio also complies with the
following guidelines and standards regarding RF energy and electromagnetic
energy levels as well as evaluation of those levels for human exposure:

■

FCC OET Bulletin 65 Edition 97-01 Supplement C, Evaluating Compliance with
FCC Guidelines for Human Exposure to Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Fields.

■

American National Standards Institute (C95.1-1992), IEEE Standard for Safety
Levels with Respect to Human Exposure to Radio Frequency Electromagnetic
Fields, 3 kHz to 300 GHz.

■

American National Standards Institute (C95.3-1992), IEEE Recommended
Practice for the Measurement of Potentially Hazardous Electromagnetic
Fields — RF and Microwave.

The following WARNINGS and CAUTIONS will make you aware of RF exposure
hazards and how to assure you operate the radio within the FCC RF exposure
limits established for it.

English

2

•

WARNING

Your CobraMarine™radio generates electromagnetic RF (radio frequency) energy
when it is transmitting. To ensure that you and those around you are not exposed to
excessive amounts of that energy (beyond FCC allowable limits for occupational use):

ALWAYS hold the radio, especially the antenna, at least two inches
[five cm] away from you when you are transmitting.

NEVER allow the antenna to touch any part of your body when transmitting.

KEEP the radio and antenna at least as far from bystanders as from yourself.

DO NOT operate the radio without the supplied antenna or a Cobra®authorized

replacement attachment. In addition to the RF energy exposure hazard,
doing so may damage the radio.

DO NOT transmit more than 50% of the time the radio is in use — 50% duty cycle.
The radio is transmitting when the Talk button is pressed and the Transmit icon
shows on the LCD screen.

ALWAYS use only Cobra®authorized accessories (antennas, batteries, belt clips, etc.).

DO NOT operate the radio where RF energy generated during transmission

may cause electromagnetic interference or incompatibility with other devices
or systems. This includes aircraft, blasting sites and hospitals.

TURN OFF the radio in explosive atmospheres and where signs are posted
prohibiting radio transmissions.

Failure to observe any of these warnings may cause you to exceed
FCC RF exposure limits or create other dangerous conditions.

CAUTION

Your radio is waterproof only when the antenna and batteries are properly installed.

AVOID using or storing the radio at temperatures below -4˚F (-20˚C) or above
140˚F (60˚C).

KEEP your radio at least three feet (0.9m) away from your vessel’s magnetic
navigation compass.

DO NOT attempt to service any internal parts yourself. Have any necessary service
performed by a qualified technician.

When replacing the batteries, dispose of the old batteries properly. NiMH
(Nickel-Metal Hydride) batteries may explode if disposed of in a fire.

Changes or modifications to your radio MAY VOID its compliance with FCC rules
and make it illegal to use.

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

3

Introduction

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

Recommendations for
Marine Communication FCC Information

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Recommendations for marine communication

The frequencies your radio uses are set aside to enhance safety afloat and for vessel
navigation and operational messages over a range suitable for nearshore voyages. If the
five watt maximum output of your radio isn’t sufficient for the distances you travel from
the coast, consider installing a CobraMarine™fixed mount radio with up to 25 watts of
output power. (Visit www.cobra.com or your local dealer for model availability.)

If you will be going far offshore, you should consider adding even more powerful
radio equipment such as HF single side band or satellite radio for your vessel.

The U.S. Coast Guard does not endorse cellular telephones as substitutes for marine
radios. They generally cannot communicate with rescue vessels and, if you make a
distress call on a cellular telephone, only the party you call will be able to hear you.
Additionally, cellular telephones may have limited coverage over water and can be
hard to locate. If you don’t know where you are, the Coast Guard will have difficulty
finding you if you’re using a cellular telephone.

However, cellular telephones can have a place on board where cellular coverage
is available — to allow social conversations and keep the marine frequencies
uncluttered and available for their intended uses.

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

FCC LICENSING INFORMATION

CobraMarine™VHF radios comply with the FCC (Federal Communications
Commission) requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Service.

The radio operates on all currently allocated marine channels and is switchable for
use according to U.S.A., International or Canadian regulations. It features instant
access to emergency Channel 16 and calling Channel 9 as well as NOAA (National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) All Hazards Radio with Alert that can be
accessed by pressing one key.

Station license

An FCC ship station license is no longer required for any vessel traveling in U.S.A.
waters which uses a VHF marine radio, RADAR or EPIRB (Emergency Position
Indicating Radio Beacon), and which is not required to carry radio equipment.
However, any vessel required to carry a marine radio on an international voyage,
carrying a HF single side band radiotelephone or carrying a marine satellite

4

terminal must obtain a station license.
FCC license forms and applications for ship and land stations can be downloaded

through the Internet at www.fcc.gov/forms. Forms can also be obtained by calling
the FCC at 888-225-5322.

English

•

International station license

If your vessel will be entering the sovereign waters of a country other than the
U.S.A. or Canada, you should contact that country’s communications regulatory
authority for licensing information.

Radio call sign

Currently, the FCC does not require recreational boaters to have a license. The United
States Coast Guard recommends that the boat’s registration number and state of registry
(e.g., Illinois 1234 AB) be used as a call sign and be clearly visible on the vessel.

Canadian ship station license

This portable VHF radiotelephone is suitable ONLY for voluntary carriage onboard
Canadian ships NOT subject to the Ship Station (Radio) Regulations, 1999. You may
need a license if your vessel is operated in Canadian waters. Please contact the
nearest field office or write: Industry of Canada, Radio Regulatory Branch,
Attn: DOSP, 300 Slater Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0C8.

User responsibility and operating locations

All users are responsible for observing domestic and foreign government regulations
and are subject to severe penalties for violations. The VHF frequencies on your radio
are reserved for marine use and require a special license to operate from land,
including when your boat is on its trailer.

•

NOTE

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause
harmful interference and (2) This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

FCC Warnings: Replacement or substitution of transistors, regular diodes,
or other parts of a unique nature, with parts other than those recommended
by Cobra®may cause a violation of the technical regulations of part 80 of the
FCC Rules, or violation of type acceptance requirements of part 2 of the rules.

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

5

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

VHF Marine Radio
Procedures Voice Calling

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

VHF marine radio procedures

Maintain your watch

Whenever your boat is underway, the radio must be turned on and
be tuned to Channel 16 except when being used for messages.

Power

Try one watt first if the station being called is within a few miles. If there
is no answer, switch to a higher power. This will conserve your battery and
minimize interference to other users.

Calling coast stations

Call a coast station on its assigned channel. You may use Channel 16
when you do not know the assigned channel.

Calling other vessels

Call other vessels on Channel 16 or on Channel 9. (Channel 9 is preferred
for recreational vessel use.) You may also call on ship-to-ship channels
when you know that the vessel is listening on a ship-to-ship channel.

Limits on calling

You must not call the same station for more than 30 seconds at a time.
If you do not get a reply, wait at least two minutes before calling again.
After three calling periods, wait at least 15 minutes before calling again.

Change channels

After contacting another station on a calling channel, change immediately
to a channel which is available for the type of message you want to send.

Station identification

Identify, in English, your station by your FCC call sign, ship name, the state registration
number or other official number at both the beginning and end of each message.

Prohibited communications

You MUST NOT transmit:

■

False distress or emergency messages.

■

Messages containing obscene, indecent or profane words or meaning.

■

General calls, signals or messages (messages not addressed to a particular
station) on Channel 16, except in an emergency or if you are testing your radio.

■

When you are on land.

English

6

•

Voice calling

To call another vessel or a shore installation such as a lock or bridge tender:

■

Make sure your radio is on.

■

Select Channel 16 and listen to make sure it is not being used.

•

NOTE

Channel 9 may be used by recreational vessels for general-purpose
calling. This frequency should be used whenever possible to relieve
congestion on Channel 16.

■

When the channel is quiet, press the Talk button and call the ship you wish to
call. (Hold the microphone a few inches from your face and speak directly into
it in a normal tone of voice — clearly and distinctly.) Say “[name of station
being called] THIS IS [your vessel’s name or call sign].”

■

Once contact is made on the calling channel, you must switch to
a proper working channel. See the channel listing on pages 14 through 15.

For Example

The vessel Corsair calling the vessel Vagabond:

Corsair: “Vagabond, this is Corsair.”

Vagabond: “Corsair, this is Vagabond. Reply 72 (or any proper working channel).”

Corsair: “72” or “Roger”

■

After communications are completed, each vessel must sign off with its
call sign or vessel name and switch to Channel 16.

NOTE

For best sound quality at the station you are calling, hold the microphone
on the front of the radio at least two inches [five cm] from your mouth
and slightly off to one side. Speak in a normal tone of voice.

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

7

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Radiotelephone Calls

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Emergency Messages
and Distress Procedure

Radiotelephone calls

Boaters may make and receive radiotelephone calls to and from any number on the
telephone network by using the services of public coast stations. Calls can be made
— for a fee — between your radio and telephones on land, sea and in the air. See
pages 12 through 21 for the public correspondence (marine operator) channels.

If you plan to use these services, consider registering with the operator of the
public coast station that you plan to work through. Those services can provide
you with detailed information and procedures to follow.

CAUTION

You may disclose privileged information during a radiotelephone call.
Keep in mind that your transmission is NOT private, as it is on a regular
telephone. Both sides of the conversation are being broadcast and can be
heard by anyone who has a radio and tunes to the channel you are using.

Emergency messages and distress procedure

The ability to summon assistance in an emergency is the primary reason to have
a VHF marine radio. The marine environment can be unforgiving, and what may
initially be a minor problem can rapidly develop into a situation beyond your control.

The Coast Guard monitors Channel 16, responds to all distress calls, and
coordinates all search and rescue efforts. Depending on the availability of other
capable vessels or commercial assistance operators in your vicinity, Coast Guard
or Coast Guard Auxiliary craft may be dispatched.

In any event, do communicate with the Coast Guard as soon as you experience
difficulties and before your situation becomes an emergency. Use the emergency
message procedures only after your situation has become grave or you are faced
with a sudden danger threatening life or property and requiring immediate help.
If you are merely out of gas, do not send an emergency message. Drop your
anchor and call a friend or marina to bring the fuel you need or give you a tow.

•

Marine emergency signals

The three spoken international emergency signals are:

MAYDAY

The distress signal MAYDAY is used to indicate that a station is threatened
by grave and imminent danger and requests immediate assistance.

PAN PAN

The urgency signal PAN PAN is used when the safety of the vessel or person
is in jeopardy. (This signal is properly pronounced pahn-pahn.)

SECURITE

The safety signal SECURITE is used for messages about the safety of navigation or
important weather warnings. (This signal is properly pronounced see-cure-it-tay.)

When using an international emergency signal, the appropriate

•

signal is to be spoken three times prior to the message.

If you hear a distress call

You must give any message beginning with one of these signals priority
over any other messages. ALL stations MUST remain silent on Channel 16
for the duration of the emergency unless the message relates directly to
the emergency.

If you hear a distress message from a vessel, stand by your radio. If it is
not answered, YOU should answer. If the distressed vessel is not nearby,
wait a short time for others who may be closer to acknowledge. Even if
you cannot render direct assistance, you may be in a position to relay
the message.

8

English

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

9

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Emergency Messages
and Distress Procedure

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Emergency Messages
and Distress Procedure

Marine distress procedure

Speak slowly — clearly — calmly.

1. Make sure your radio is on.

2. Select VHF Channel 16.

3. Press Talk button and say:

“MAYDAY — MAYDAY — MAYDAY.”
(Or “PAN PAN — PAN PAN — PAN PAN,”
or “SECURITE — SECURITE — SECURITE.”)

4. Say:

“THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign].”

5. Say:

“MAYDAY (or “PAN PAN” or “SECURITE”)
[your vessel name or call sign].

6. Tell where you are:

(what navigational aids or landmarks are near).

7. State the nature of your distress.

8. State the kind of assistance needed.

9. Give number of persons aboard and conditions of any injured.

10. Estimate present seaworthiness of your vessel.

11. Briefly describe your vessel (length, type, color, hull).

12. Say:

“I WILL BE LISTENING ON CHANNEL 16.”

13. End message by saying:

“THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign] OVER.”

14. Release Talk button and listen. Someone should answer.
If not, repeat the call, beginning at item 3 above.

Keep the radio nearby. Even after your message has been received, the Coast Guard
can find you more quickly if you can transmit a signal for a rescue boat to hone in on.

For Example

“Mayday — Mayday — Mayday”

“This is Corsair — Corsair — Corsair” [or “Illinois 1234 AB” three times]

“Mayday Corsair (or Illinois 1234 AB)”

“Navy Pier bears 220 degrees magnetic — distance five miles”

“Struck submerged object and flooding — need pump and tow”

“Four adults, three children aboard — no one injured”

“Estimate we will remain afloat one half (1⁄2) hour”

“Corsair (or Illinois 1234 AB) is 26 foot sloop with blue hull and tan deck house”

“I will be listening on Channel 16”

“This is Corsair (or Illinois 1234 AB)”

“Over”

It is a good idea to write out a script of the message form and post it where you
and others on your vessel can see it when an emergency message needs to be sent.

10

English

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

11

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

VHF Marine
Channel Assignments

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

VHF Marine
Channel Assignments

VHF marine channel assignments

Three sets of VHF channels have been established for marine use in the U.S.A.,
Canada and the rest of the world (International). Most of the channels are the same
for all three maps, but there are definite differences (see table on the following
pages). Your radio has all three maps built into it and will operate correctly in
whichever area you choose.

The following is a brief outline of the channel assignments in the U.S.A.
Channel Map.

Distress, safety and calling

Channel 16

Getting the attention of another station (calling) or in emergencies
(distress and safety).

Calling

Channel 9

General purpose (non-emergency) calling by non-commercial vessels.
Recreational boaters are urged to use this channel to reduce congestion
on Channel 16.

Intership safety

Channel 6

Ship-to-ship safety messages and for search and rescue messages to
Coast Guard ships and aircraft.

Coast guard liaison

Channel 22A

To talk to the Coast Guard (non-emergency) after making contact on Channel 16.

Non-Commercial

Channels 68*, 69, 71, 72, 78A, 79A*, 80A*

Working channels for small vessels. Messages must be about needs of the
vessel, such as fishing reports, berthing and rendezvous. Use Channel 72 only
for ship-to-ship messages.

Commercial

Channels 1A, 7A, 8, 9, 10, 11, 18A, 19A, 63A, 67, 72, 79A, 80A, 88A*

Working channels for working ships only. Messages must be about business or
needs of the ship. Use Channels 8, 67, 72 and 88A only for ship-to-ship messages.

•

Public correspondence (marine operator)

Channels 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 84, 84A, 85, 85A, 86, 86A, 87, 87A, 88*

For calls to marine operators at public coast stations. You can make and receive
telephone calls through these stations.

Port operations

Channels 1A*, 5A*, 12*, 14*, 20A, 63A*, 65A, 66A, 73, 74, 77*

Used for directing the movement of ships in or near ports, locks or waterways.
Messages must be about operational handling, movement and safety of ships.

Navigational

Channels 13, 67

Channels are available to all vessels. Messages must be about navigation, including
passing or meeting other vessels. These are also the main working channels for
most locks and drawbridges. You must keep your messages short and power output
at no more than one watt.

Maritime control

Channel 17

For talking to vessels and coast stations operated by state or local governments.
Messages must be about regulation and control, boating activities or assistance.

Digital selective calling

Channel 70

This channel is set aside for distress, safety and general calling using only digital
selective calling techniques. Voice communication is prohibited; your radio cannot
transmit voice messages on this channel.

Weather

Channels Wx 1 thru 10

Receive-only channels for NOAA weather broadcasts. You cannot transmit on them.

NOTE

* These channels are restricted to the listed uses in certain parts of

the country or for certain types of users only. Consult FCC rules
or a knowledgeable radio operator before using them.

12

English

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

13

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

VHF Marine
Channel Assignments

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

VHF Marine
Channel Assignments

Channel Channel Map Frequency Power
Number USA Int’l Canada Transmit Receive Limits

01

01A

02 ••156.100 160.700
03 ••156.150 160.750

03A • 156.150 156.150

04 • 156.200 160.800

04A • 156.200 156.200

05 • 156.250 160.850

05A ••156.250 156.250

06 •••156.300 156.300
07 • 156.350 160.950

07A ••156.350 156.350

08 • • • 156.400 156.400
09 •••156.450 156.450
10 •••156.500 156.500
11 •••156.550 156.550
12 •••156.600 156.600

13 •••156.650 156.650 1 Watt USA and CAN

14 • • • 156.700 156.700
15 • Rx Only 156.750
15 ••156.750 156.750 1 Watt CAN and INT
16 • • • 156.800 156.800
17 • ••156.850 156.850 1 Watt CAN

••

•

156.050 160.650

156.050 156.050

Channel Use

01 Public correspondence (marine operator)

01A Port operations and commercial, VTS in selected areas

02 Public correspondence (marine operator)

03 Public correspondence (marine operator)

03A Government only

04 Public correspondence (marine operator), port operations, ship movement

04A West coast (Coast Guard only); east coast (commercial fishing)

05 Public correspondence (marine operator), port operations, ship movement

05A Port operations, VTS in selected areas

06 Intership safety

07 Public correspondence (marine operator), port operations, ship movement

07A Commercial

08 Commercial (intership only)

09 Boater calling channel, non-commercial (recreational)

10 Commercial

11 Commercial, VTS in selected areas

12 Port operations, VTS in selected areas

13 Intership navigation safety (bridge-to-bridge). In U.S. waters,

large vessels maintain a listening watch on this channel.

14 Port operations, VTS in selected areas

15 Environmental (receive only). Used by class C EPIRB’s.

15 Canada (EPIRB buoys only); International (on-board communication)

16 International distress, safety and calling

17 State controlled (U.S.A. Only)

14

English

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

15

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

VHF Marine
Channel Assignments

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

VHF Marine
Channel Assignments

Channel Channel Map Frequency Power
Number USA Int’l Canada Transmit Receive Limits

18

18A

19

19A

20

20A

21

21A

22

22A

23

23A

24

25

26

27

28

60

61

61A

62

62A

•

••

•

••

•••

•

••

• •

•

••

• •

•

• ••

•••

•••

•••

• • •

••

•

••

•

156.900 161.500

156.900 156.900

156.950 161.550

156.950 156.950

157.000 161.600 1 Watt CAN

157.000 157.000

157.050 161.650

157.050 157.050

157.100 161.700

157.100 157.100

157.150 161.750

157.150 157.150

157.200 161.800

157.250 161.850

157.300 161.900

157.350 161.950

157.400 162.000

156.025 160.625

156.075 160.675

156.075 156.075

156.125 160.725

156.125 156.125

•

Channel Use

18 Port operations, ship movement

18A Commercial

19 Port operations, ship movement

19A Commercial

20 Canada (Coast Guard only); International (port operations, ship movement)

20A Port operations

21 Port operations, ship movement

21A U.S. (Government Only); Canada (Coast Guard only)

22 Port operations, ship movement

22A U.S. and Canadian Coast Guard liaison and Maritime safety information

Broadcasts that are announced on Channel 16

23 Public correspondence (marine operator)

23A Government only

24 Public correspondence (marine operator)

25 Public correspondence (marine operator)

26 Public correspondence (marine operator)

27 Public correspondence (marine operator)

28 Public correspondence (marine operator)

60 Public correspondence (marine operator)

61 Public correspondence (marine operator), port operation, ship movement

61A U.S. (Government only); Canada (Coast Guard only);

West Coast (Coast Guard only); East Coast (commercial fishing)

62 Public correspondence (marine cperator), port operations, ship movement

62A West coast (Coast Guard only); East coast (commercial cishing)

16

English

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

17

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

VHF Marine
Channel Assignments

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

VHF Marine
Channel Assignments

Channel Channel Map Frequency Power
Number USA Int’l Canada Transmit Receive Limits

63

63A

64

64A

65

65A

66

66A

67

68

69

70

71

72

73

74

77

•

•

••

••

•

• ••

•

• ••

•••

•••

• • •

•••

• • •

•••

•••

•••

•••

156.175 160.775

156.175 156.175

156.225 160.825

156.225 156.225

156.275 160.875

156.275 156.275

156.325 160.925

156.325 156.325 1 Watt CAN

156.375 156.375 1 Watt USA

156.425 156.425

156.475 156.475

RX only 156.525

156.575 156.575

156.625 156.625

156.675 156.675

156.725 156.725

156.875 156.875 1 Watt CAN

Channel Use

63 Public correspondence (marine operator), port operations, ship movement

63A Port operations and commercial, VTS in selected areas

64 Public correspondence (marine operator), port operations, ship movement

64A U.S. (Government only); Canada (commercial fishing)

65 Public correspondence (marine operator), port operations, ship movement

65A Port operations

66 Public correspondence (marine operator), port operations, ship movement

66A Port operations

67 U.S. (commercial). Used for bridge-to-bridge communications in lower

Mississippi River (intership only); Canada (commercial fishing), S&R

68 Non-commercial (recreational)

69 U.S. (non-commercial, recreational); Canada (commercial fishing only);

International (intership, port operations, ship movement)

70 Digital selective calling (voice communications not allowed)

71 U.S. and Canada (non-commercial, recreational);

International (port operations, ship movement)

72 Non-commercial (intership only)

73 U.S. (port operations); Canada (commercial fishing only);

International (intership, port operations, ship movement)

74 U.S. (port operations); Canada (commercial fishing only);

International (intership, port operations, ship movement)

77 Port operations (intership only). Restricted to communications

with pilots for movement and docking of ships.

18

English

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

19

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

VHF Marine
Channel Assignments

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

VHF Marine
Channel Assignments

Channel Channel Map Frequency Power

Number USA Int’l Canada Transmit Receive Limits

78A

79A

80A

81A

82A

83A

84A

85A

86A

87A

88A

78

79

80

81

82

83

84

85

86

87
87

88

88

•

••

•

••

•

••

•

••

•

••

••

••

•••

•

•••

•

• ••

•

• •

•

•

••

•

•

156.925 161.525

156.925 156.925

156.975 161.575

156.975 156.975

157.025 161.625

157.025 157.025

157.075 161.675

157.075 157.075

157.125 161.725

157.125 157.125

157.175 161.775

157.175 157.175

157.225 161.825

157.225 157.225

157.275 161.875

157.275 157.275

157.325 161.925

157.325 157.325

157.375 161.975

157.375 157.375

157.375 157.375

157.425 162.025

157.425 157.425

157.425 157.425

Channel Use

78 Public correspondence (marine operator)

78A Non-commercial (recreational)

79 Port operations, ship movement

79A Commercial (also non-commercial only in Great Lakes)

80 Port operations, ship movement

80A Commercial (also non-commercial only in Great Lakes)

81 Port operations, ship movement

81A U.S. (Government only; environmental protection operations)

82 Public correspondence (marine operator), port operation, ship movement

82A U.S. (Government only); Canada (Coast Guard only)

83 Canada (Coast Guard only)

83A U.S. (Government only); Canada (Coast Guard only)

84 Public correspondence (marine operator)

84A Public correspondence (marine operator)

85 Public correspondence (marine operator)

85A Public correspondence (marine operator)

86 Public correspondence (marine operator)

86A Public correspondence (marine operator)

87 Public correspondence (marine operator)
87 Public correspondence (marine operator)

87A Public correspondence (marine operator)

88 Public correspondence (ship to coast). In U.S. only within

75 miles of Canadian border.

88 Commercial intership only

88A Commercial intership only

NOTE

Many of the plain numbered channels, such as 01, 02 and 03, transmit and receive
on different frequencies. This is termed duplex operation. The rest of the plain
numbered channels and all of the A channels, such as 01A, 03A and 04A,
transmit and receive on a single frequency, which is termed simplex operation.
Your radio automatically adjusts to these conditions. When in simplex operation,
the A icon will appear on the LCD (see illustration on page A3).

English

20

NOTE

All channels are pre-programmed at the factory according to international
regulations and those of the FCC (U.S.A.) and Industry Canada (Canada).
They cannot be altered by the user nor can modes of operation be changed
between simplex and duplex.

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

21

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Assistance

Warranty

NOAA Weather Channels
and Alert Included in This Package

Installation

NOAA weather channels and alert

Monitoring the weather will probably be a frequent use of your VHF radio. The
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides continuous,
around-the-clock broadcasts of the latest weather information. Taped weather
messages run every four to six minutes and are revised every two
or three hours, or as needed. The Coast Guard also announces weather
and other safety warnings on Channel 16. Smart boaters keep an eye on safety
and an ear to the VHF radio — and never let the weather catch them unaware.

NOAA emergency weather alert

In the event of a major storm or other weather condition requiring vessels at sea
or on other bodies of water to be notified, NOAA broadcasts a 1050 Hz tone that
receivers such as your CobraMarine™VHF radio can detect and warn you of a
weather alert condition. When the Weather Alert mode on your radio is on,
this signal will produce a loud tone from the speaker in the radio and a flashing
“ALRT” icon on the LCD to signal that a weather alert is being broadcast. To hear
the warning itself, you will need to switch to the Weather Channel you selected.

Test

To test this system, NOAA broadcasts the 1050 Hz signal every Wednesday sometime
between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. in each local time zone. Any receiver that can detect the
weather alert tone may use this feature to verify that this feature is functioning properly.

Weather frequency

Channel RX frequency MHz

1 162.550

2 162.400

3 162.475

4 162.425

5 162.450

6 162.500

7 162.525

8 161.650

9 161.775

10 163.275

•

Included in this package

•

You should find all of the following items in the
package with your CobraMarine™VHF radio:

Radio Wrist Strap Flexible Antenna

Battery Tray
Batteries Included

Batteries

Drop-In Battery Charger

Operating Instruction Manual Belt Clip

Battery Charger Power Cord

For connection to 12 volt
source through cigarette
lighter.

Battery Charger Power Cord

For connection to 120 volt wall
outlet.

22

English

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

23

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

Intro Operation Customer

Assistance

Main Icons

Secondary Icons

Installation

Assistance

Warranty

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

Assistance

Warranty

Installation

Antenna, Wrist Strap,
and Belt Clip

Installation

Batteries and Charger

Antenna, wrist strap and belt clip

Install Antenna

Antenna installation

The flexible Antenna for the radio is shipped separately in
the package and must be attached before you use the radio.

1. Align the base of the antenna with the socket in the
top of the radio.

2. Screw it all the way into the socket. Be sure that
the seal seats properly.

Wrist Strap

CAUTION

Operating the radio without the antenna in place
may damage the unit. The radio is not waterproof
until the antenna and battery pack are in place
with their seals properly seated.

Slide Belt Clip onto Belt

Wrist strap

Your radio comes with the Wrist Strap already attached.
It can be easily removed if you choose not to use it.

Belt clip

Use the Belt Clip to carry your radio around with you.

1. Slide the clip onto your belt.

Insert Knob onto Belt Clip

Secure Radio

2. Insert the knob on the back of the radio into the
channel on the back of the belt clip. You must
have the radio upside-down, as shown, to insert
or remove it from the belt clip.

3. Once the knob has been inserted all the way into
the belt clip channel, the radio will swing freely
while being securely retained.

•

Batteries and charger

Rechargeable Batteries

The radio is shipped with six rechargeable NiMH

•

(Nickel-Metal Hydride) Batteries in the package. When
your rechargeable Batteries begin to discharge too quickly,
it is time to install new ones. It will also operate with
six high quality alkaline Batteries.

Battery Compartment Lock

Installing the batteries

1. Open the battery compartment by turning the
screw counter-clockwise one-quarter (1⁄4) turn.

2. Slide the empty battery tray out of the radio.

3. Align the batteries with the slots in the battery

tray and insert them. Be sure to match the polarity
markings on the batteries with those on the tray.

Install Batteries

4. Slide the full battery tray into the radio. Be sure
the seal is in its groove and not pinched between
the tray and the body of the radio.

5. Turn the screw one-quarter (1⁄4) turn clockwise to
lock the battery tray in place.

After the NiMH batteries are installed in the radio,
they will need to be charged before they can be used.

Waterproof Sealing

CAUTION

The gasket on the base of the battery pack is essential
for the radio to be waterproof. Be certain that it is not
dislodged and that it fits properly into the radio.

CAUTION

NiMH batteries are toxic. Please dispose of the
old ones properly. Some marine suppliers accept
old batteries for recycling and many municipal
waste disposal agencies have special provisions
for battery disposal.

24

English

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

25

Assistance

Warranty

Assistance

Warranty

Installation

Warranty

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

Intro Operation Customer

Main Icons

Secondary Icons

Batteries and Charger

Installation

Batteries and Charger

Power Sources

Insert Radio

Initial charge

The Cobra®provided NiMH batteries can be Charged
at home, in your automobile or in your boat using the
appropriate 12 or 120 volt power cord with the charger.

1. Insert one of the power cords into the back of the
drop-in charging cradle.

2. Insert the other end of the power cord into the
appropriate 12 or 120 volt power source.

3. Insert the radio into the charger. The metal pads
on the radio will contact mating pads in the charger
to transfer the charging current.

4. Observe that the red light on the front of the charger
glows to indicate that the radio is properly seated and
the charger is operating.

5. Allow the batteries to charge for 12 to 15 hours.

WARNING

Only the rechargeable NiMH batteries
can be recharged.

NOTE

If the drop-in charger is to be used on a boat,
Cobra®recommends you attach it to a shelf or
bulkhead (using the screw holes provided) to
prevent damage due to the boat rolling or pitching.

Fully Charged

Partially Charged

Fully Discharged

Maintaining the battery charge

As you use your radio, the battery power icon will show the
battery power remaining. When the icon begins to flash, it is
time to recharge or change the batteries.

You can monitor incoming calls while the radio is charging.
However, you should remove it from the charger to transmit.
Charging will be quicker if the radio is turned off.

CAUTION

Use only the drop-in charger provided by Cobra®.
Do not use the charger with alkaline batteries; only
the NiMH batteries are rechargeable. Spent alkaline
batteries must be discarded and replaced.

It is a good idea to keep a set of fresh, high quality alkaline
batteries with your radio. Should the rechargeable batteries
become discharged and no electrical power source be
available, you can insert the alkaline batteries and continue
to use your radio until you can return to using the
rechargeable ones.

26 27

English

Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

Operating Your Radio

Getting Started

Operating Your Radio

Getting Started

Getting started

Refer to the foldout on the front cover of this manual to identify the various
controls and indicators on your radio.

Throughout this manual you will be instructed to press or to press and hold buttons
on the radio. Press means a momentary press, then release; press and hold means
to hold the button down.

Whenever you press any button except the Talk button on your radio, a brief tone
(beep) will sound to confirm the button press. With all button presses, the appropriate
icon will appear on the LCD and the backlight will turn on. The backlight will stay
on for five seconds after the button is released.

At times you will hear two other sounds. Two beeps will sound to confirm your
setting changes and three beeps will sound to notify you of an error.

Power on-off

The on-off Power/Volume knob on the top of the radio is held in the off position
by a click stop.

Squelch Knob

On-Off Power/Volume Knob

On-Off Power/Volume Knob

To turn your radio on:

1. Turn the Squelch knob half-way counter-clockwise

(when viewed from above).

2. Turn the on-off Power/Volume knob clockwise
until you hear and feel a click.

When the radio is powered on, a brief tone will sound,
the display backlight will turn on, and the display will
show all icons for two seconds. All buttons will be
inoperative during these two seconds.

After two seconds, the radio will return to the settings
in effect when it was last powered off, the LCD will show
the appropriate icons, and all controls will be operative.
The radio will then be in Standby mode.

To turn your radio off:

1. Turn the on-off Power/Volume knob all the way

counter-clockwise until you hear and feel a click.

•

On-Off Power/Volume Knob

Volume

The on-off Power/Volume knob also controls the speaker
Volume. The Volume adjustment applies only to what you

hear from the speaker and does not affect the Volume of
your outgoing messages, which is controlled by the
circuitry of your radio.

To increase the volume:

1. Turn the on-off Power/Volume knob clockwise.

To decrease the volume:

1. Turn the on-off Power/Volume knob counter-clockwise.

Squelch Knob

Squelch

Squelch control filters weak signals and radio
frequency noise so that you can more clearly
hear the signals you want.

To squelch your radio:

1. With the Squelch knob turned fully counter-clockwise,

turn the on-off Power/Volume knob clockwise until you
hear a hissing (noise) sound.

2. Turn the Squelch knob clockwise until the hissing
sound stops. Turning the Squelch knob further clockwise
will filter weak and medium strength signals until only the
strongest signal can get through at its highest setting.

To receive weaker signals, turn the Squelch knob
counter-clockwise.

If the squelch is set so you can hear a continuous hissing
sound, the scan and dual-watch functions will be blocked.

28

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Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

29

Operating Your Radio

Getting Started

Operating Your Radio

Getting Started

U.S.A./International/Canada channel maps

Three sets of VHF Channel Maps have been established for marine use in the
U.S.A., Canada and the rest of the world (International). Most of the channels are
the same for all three maps, but there are definite differences (see table on pages
14 through 21). Your radio has all three maps built into it and will operate correctly
in whichever area you choose.

Weather/UIC Button

To set your radio for the area
in which you will be using it:

1. From Standby mode, press and hold the Weather/UIC

button for two seconds. The radio will shift one channel
map and the Active Channel Map icon on

Active Channel Map Icon

the LCD will show the change on the LCD.

Repeat step one to shift to the next channel map(s).

Channels

Your radio will receive and transmit VHF signals
on the Channel indicated on the LCD. You can change
the Channel at any time using the Channel Up and
Channel Down buttons.

Channel Up/Down Buttons

Currently On Channel 88

To change channels:

1. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button.

You are on Channel 88, pressing the Channel Up
button will advance to Channel 1. If you are on
Channel 1, pressing the Channel Down button
will advance to Channel 88.

You can hold the Channel Up or Channel Down
button for fast advance.

The beep sound will occur only at the first press
of the button and not during fast advance.

If the new channel selected is restricted to low power,
the radio will automatically switch to Low Power mode
and the Low Power icon will appear on the LCD.

If the radio is in the Key Lock mode, the channel will not
change and the three beep error signal will sound.

Low Power Mode

Transmit power output

Your radio can Transmit selectively at one or five watts of
power. Cobra®suggests you maintain the low power setting
for short-range communications, to conserve battery life
and to avoid overpowering nearby stations with your signal.

High Power Mode

Use the high power setting for long-range communications
or when you do not receive a response
to a signal sent at one watt.

To toggle between the high and low power modes:

High/Low Power Button

1. Press the High/Low Power button. The LCD will show
which mode is in effect.

Some channels are restricted to use at a maximum of
one watt. Your radio will automatically set the power
to Low Power mode when you select those channels.

While using the U.S.A. channel map, if, in an emergency,
you need to increase the output power on Channel 13 and
Channel 67 for your signal to be heard, you can override
the Low Power mode by pressing and holding the High/
Low Power button.

Backlight

The LCD will be illuminated by the Backlight as long as any key is pressed and will
remain on for five seconds after the button is released.

Backlight/Key Lock Button

If you need to turn on the backlight
without disturbing any settings:

1. Press the Backlight/Key Lock button. The backlight will

remain on for 10 seconds.

If the backlight is on, a press of the Backlight/Key Lock
button will turn it off.

30

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Nothing comes close to a Cobra

®

31

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

Operating Your Radio

Getting Started

Operating Your Radio

Standby/Receive
and Transmit

Locked Buttons

Backlight/Key Lock Button

Key Lock Icon

Key Lock

To prevent accidental changes to your settings,
you can Lock:

■

Channel Up Button

■

Channel Down Button

■

Weather/UIC Button

■

16/9 Button

■

High/Low Button

■

Dual-Watch/Scan Button

To lock or unlock the buttons:

1. Press and hold the Backlight/Key Lock button for

three seconds. The key icon will appear or
disappear in the LCD.

When key lock is on, pressing any of the listed buttons
on the front of the radio will result in a three beep
error message. Both the Backlight/Key Lock button and
the Talk button are active — you can receive or transmit
a message with key lock on, but you cannot change
the channel.

Standby/Receive and transmit

Transmit Icon

Standby and receive

Standby mode is the usual mode for the radio whenever
it is turned on. From this mode, you can change your
settings using the buttons on the front of the radio and
switch to Transmit mode using the Talk button. Signals
will be received on the selected channel(s) and alerts
broadcast by the Coast Guard and NOAA will activate
the corresponding routines in your radio.

Talk Button

NOTE

Coast Guard alerts are broadcast on Channel 16
and you need to have weather alert turned on
to receive NOAA alerts.

While in Standby mode, you will receive any messages
sent on the channel to which you are tuned.

•

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33

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

Operating Your Radio

Standby/Receive
and Transmit

Operating Your Radio

Weather Radio and Alert

Check Channel Number

Low Power Mode

2 Inches (5 cm) From Mouth

Talk Button

Transmit Icon

Transmit

Transmit mode gives you the ability to interact with safety
services, other vessels and shore stations. When you use
this capability, be sure to follow the procedures and to
observe the courtesies that govern its use so everyone
benefits. (The tables on pages 14 through 21 will help
you select the proper channels.)

To transmit a message:

1. Check to see that your radio is set to a proper

channel for the type of message you plan to send.

2. Toggle to the low power setting.

3. With the microphone about two inches [five cm]

from your mouth press and hold the Talk button and
speak into the microphone. The Transmit icon will
appear on the LCD.

4. Release the Talk button when you are finished
speaking. Your radio can only operate in either the
Transmit mode or the Receive mode at any given
time. You will not hear the response to your message
unless the Talk button is released.

If the Battery Power icon begins blinking on the
LCD when the Talk button is depressed, the radio
will NOT transmit and the Transmit icon will blink.

If the Talk button is held down for five minutes,
the radio will automatically cease transmitting to prevent
unwanted signal generation and battery drain. As soon
as the Talk button is released, it can be pressed again
to resume transmission.

NOAA all hazards/weather radio and alert

Weather radio

NOAA broadcasts Weather information as described in the NOAA weather
channels section on page 22 of this manual. You can listen to one or
two of these 10 channels at any time (only in the Receive mode).

Weather/UIC Button

NOTE

Only one or two of the weather channels
will be operating in any given location. You will
need to select the channel with the strongest
signal in your location.

Channel Up/Down Buttons

To listen to the weather channels:

1. From Standby mode, press the Weather/UIC button.

The radio will enter the Weather mode and the icon
will show on the LCD.

2. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to
change the weather channels — hold the button for
fast advance.

Weather Radio Mode

To exit the Weather mode and return to Standby
mode, press the Weather/UIC button again.

Weather alert

NOAA also broadcasts special Weather Alerts to warn of
severe weather. These are preceded by a special signal
that your radio can detect. However, you must set your
radio to the weather channel that broadcasts a strong

Weather Alert Mode

signal in the area where you are, and you must activate the

Weather Alert mode on your radio to benefit from this signal.

To activate weather alert:

1. Enter the Weather mode and select a station with a

strong signal as described above.

2. Press and hold the Weather/UIC button for two seconds
to turn the Weather Alert mode on or off.
The Alert icon on the LCD will turn on or off.

To exit the Weather mode and return to Standby
mode, press the Weather/UIC button again.

•

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35

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

Operating Your Radio

Advanced Operation

Operating Your Radio

Advanced Operation

Weather alert signal

When NOAA broadcasts a Weather Alert Signal and your radio is in the Weather
Alert mode, you will hear a continuous audible tone and the Alert icon will flash on

the LCD. The alert indicators will sound and flash regardless of what channel you
are operating on as soon as a NOAA alert signal is received.

When you hear the alert:

1. Press any key to turn off the alert indicators.

2. Switch to the weather channel you selected to hear the NOAA

emergency broadcast.

Advanced operation

Channel 16/9

This function gives you quick access to the calling Channels 16 and Channels 9
from any operational mode.

Channel 16/9 Button

Channel 16 or Channel 9

To switch to Channel 16 or Channel 9:

1. Press the Channel 16/9 button to change to

Channel 16.

2. Press the Channel 16/9 button again to change
to Channel 9.

To exit the Channel 16/9 mode and return to whatever
status existed before entering this mode, press the
Channel 16/9 button a third time.

While at Channel 16 or 9 in the Channel 16/9 mode,
you can also press the Channel Up and Channel Down
buttons to change channels. In that event, another press
of the Channel 16/9 button will switch your radio to
Channel 16 and the sequence will start over at step 1.

If you press this button when Key Lock mode is on,
you will get a three beep error message and your
radio will not change mode.

Dual-Watch

Dual-Watch gives you one button access to scan the two channels of
most importance to you. Channel 16 will always be one of the scanned
channels. You can select the other of them.

NOTE

The radio must be squelched for dual-watch to function.
See page 29 for squelch procedure.

Channel Up/Down Buttons

•

Dual-Watch/Scan Button

Dual-Watch Mode

To select the second channel for scanning
and enter Dual-Watch mode:

1. In Standby mode, use the Channel Up or Channel
Down button to change to the channel you want to

scan along with Channel 16.

2. From Standby mode, press and release the
Dual-Watch/Scan button.

The Dual-Watch icon will appear on the LCD and the
radio will scan between Channel 16 and the channel
you selected. A signal on either of the channels will
stop the scan for 10 seconds to allow you to
listen to the traffic on the channel.

To exit Dual-Watch mode:

1. Press and release the Dual-Watch/Scan button.

The icon will disappear from the LCD and the unit
will return to Standby mode status.

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Operating Your Radio

Assistance

Warranty

Customer
Assistance

88

30

60

75

Advanced Operation

Operating Your Radio

Advanced Operation

Talk or Channel Up/Down

a

Scanning

b

During Dual-Watch (while receiving an incoming
transmission), you can choose from the following:

a. Press the Talk button to remain on that

dual-watch location and return to Standby mode.

b. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button

to resume scanning dual-watch locations.

If you do not press any buttons within 10
seconds, your radio will automatically resume
scanning dual-watch locations.

During Dual-Watch (while not receiving a transmission),
you can choose from the following:

a. Press the Talk button to communicate on the

last dual-watch location scanned and return to

Standby mode.

b. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button

to change scan direction.

Channel Scan

During Channel Scan, the radio will rapidly switch from
channel to channel through all the channels. Whenever any
activity is detected, the radio will stop the scan for 10
seconds to allow you to listen briefly on that channel. It will
then continue to scan unless you switch out of the Scan mode.

NOTE

The radio must be squelched for scan to function.
See page 29 for squelch procedure.

Dual-Watch/Scan Button

Scan IconScan Icon

Talk or Channel Up/Down

a

b

To enter channel scan mode:

1. From Standby mode, press and hold the Dual-Watch/
Scan button for two seconds.

The radio will immediately begin to scan the entire
channel map selected in the active channel map.
The Scan icon will show on the LCD.

To exit scan mode:

1. From Scan mode, press and hold the Dual-Watch/Scan

button for two seconds.

The radio will exit Scan mode and return to Standby mode.

During channel scan (while receiving an incoming
transmission), you can choose from the following:

a. Press the Talk button to remain on that channel

and end scanning. This will return the radio to

Standby mode.

b. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button

to resume scanning channels.

If you do not press any buttons within 10 seconds, your
radio will automatically resume scanning channels.

During channel scan (while not receiving a transmission),
you can choose from the following:

a. Press the Talk button to communicate on

the last memory location scanned and return
to Standby mode.

b. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down

button to change scan direction.

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39

Operating Your Radio

Maintenance and
Troubleshooting

Operating Your Radio

Specifications

Maintenance

Very little maintenance is required to keep your CobraMarine™VHF radio
in good operating condition.

■

Keep the radio and charger clean by wiping with a soft cloth and mild
detergent. Do not use solvents or harsh or abrasive cleaners, which could
damage the case or scratch the LCD screen.

■

If the radio is exposed to salt water, wipe with a soft, moist cloth at least once a day
to prevent build-up of salt deposits, which could interfere with button operation.

■

If the radio will be stored for a long period, such as over the winter,
remove the batteries from the battery tray and store them in a separate
package. This is especially so if you are using alkaline batteries.

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause(s) Solution(s)

No display on LCD when
radio is turned on

Batteries are exhausted
Batteries not

installed properly

Replace batteries
Remove batteries and

reinstall according to
pola rity markings

Will transmit at
one watt, but not
at five watts

Will not transmit Selected channel is

No sound from speaker Volume level is too low or

No response to
button press

No answer to calls Out of range of

Batteries are low

Selected channel is
limited to one watt

Replace batteries

Switch to
another channel

Switch to

limited to receive only

another channel

Re-adjust volume

squelch level is too deep

and squelch

Key Lock is on Press Backlight/

Key Lock button

Switch to five

other station

Signal is blocked
by terrain

watts or move closer

Move until you have
a “line-of-sight” to
the other station

•

Specifications

General

•

Number of channels All U.S., Canadian and International

10 NOAA weather channels
Channel spacing 25 kHz
Modulation 16 KOF3E
Input voltage 7.2 VDC
Battery life: 1500mAh NiMH:

5% TX, 5% RX, 90% stand-by 15.5 hours @ 5 watts, 28 hours @ 1 watt
Current drain:

Stand-by 40 mA
Receive 200 mA
Transmit 1.8 A @ High power 0.7 A @ Low

•

Temperature range -20˚C to 60˚C
Radio dimensions 5.5" x 2.2" x 1.4"

(14 cm x 5.6 cm x 3.6 cm)
Radio weight 1.1 lbs (0.5 kg)

Receiver

Frequency range 156.050 to 163.275 MHz
Receiver type Double conversion super-heterodyne
Sensitivity:

20 dB Quieting 0.35 uV

12 dB Sinad 0.30 uV
Adjacent channel selectivity -60 dB
Intermodulation and rejection -60 dB
Spurious and image rejection -60 dB
AF output 250 mW @ 8 Ohms

Transmitter

Frequency range: TX 156.025 to 157.425 MHz
RF output power 1 and 5 Watts
Spurious emissions -60 dB High -55 dB Low
Microphone type Condenser
Frequency stability +/-5 ppm
FM hum and noise -40 dB

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Warranty

Warranty

Customer Service

Product Service

Limited 3-Year warranty

For products purchased in the U.S.A.

Cobra®Electronics Corporation warrants that its CobraMarine™VHF radio, and the
component parts thereof, will be free of defects in workmanship and materials
for a period of three years from the date of first consumer purchase. This warranty may
be enforced by the first consumer purchaser, provided that the product is utilized
within the U.S.A.

Cobra®will, without charge, repair or replace, at its option, defective radios,
products or component parts upon delivery to the Cobra®Factory Service
department, accompanied by proof of the date of first consumer purchase,
such as a duplicated copy of a sales receipt.

You must pay any initial shipping charges required to ship the product for
warranty service, but the return charges will be at Cobra®’s expense, if the
product is repaired or replaced under warranty. This warranty gives you
specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary
from state to state.

Exclusions: This limited warranty does not apply:

1. To any product damaged by accident;

2. In the event of misuse or abuse of the product or as a result

of unauthorized alterations or repairs;

3. If the serial number has been altered, defaced or removed;

4. If the owner of the product resides outside the U.S.A.

All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a
particular purpose are limited in duration to the length of this warranty. Cobra

®

shall not be liable for any incidental, consequential or other damages; including,
without limitation, damages resulting from loss of use or cost of installation.

Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and/or
do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages,
so the above limitations may not apply to you.

For products purchased outside the U.S.A.

Please contact your local dealer for warranty information.

•

Product service

•

If you have any questions about operation or installing your
new CobraMarine™VHF product, or if you are missing parts…

Please call Cobra®first! DO NOT RETURN THIS PRODUCT TO THE STORE!
See customer assistance on page A1.

If your product should require factory service, please call Cobra®first before
sending your radio. This will ensure the fastest turn-around time on your repair.
You may be asked to send your radio to the Cobra®factory. It will be necessary to
furnish the following to have the product serviced and returned:

1. For warranty repair include some form of proof-of-purchase, such as a
mechanical reproduction or carbon of a sales receipt. If you send the original
receipt, it cannot be returned.

2. Send the entire product.

3. Enclose a description of what is happening with the radio. Include a typed

or clearly printed name and address of where the radio is to be returned.

4. Pack radio securely to prevent damage in transit. If possible, use the
original packing material.

5. Ship prepaid and insured by way of a traceable carrier such as United Parcel
Service (UPS) or Priority Mail to avoid loss in transit to: Cobra®Factory
Service, Cobra®Electronics Corporation, 6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago,
Illinois 60707 U.S.A.

6. If the radio is in warranty, upon receipt of your radio, it will either be repaired
or exchanged depending on the model. Please allow approximately three
to four weeks before contacting Cobra®for status. If the radio is out of
warranty, a letter will automatically be sent informing you of the repair
charge or replacement charge.

If you have any questions, please call 773-889-3087 for assistance.

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43

Customer Service

Order Form and
Optional Accessories

Order form

Name

Address (No P.O. Boxes)

City State/Province Zip Country

Telephone

Credit Card Number Type: ❒ Visa ❒ MasterCard ❒ Discover Exp. Date

Customer Signature

Amount Shipping/Handling*

$10.00 or less . . . . . $3.00

$10.01-$25.00 . . . . . $5.50

$25.01-$50.00 . . . . . $7.50

$50.01-$90.00 . . . . $10.50

$90.01-$130.00 . . . $13.50
$130.01-$200.00 . . $16.50

$200.01 plus . . . . . 10% of

*For AK, HI and PR add

additional $26.95 for FedEx
Next Day or $10.95 for
FedEx 2nd Day. Excludes
weekend and holiday
shipments.

Please allow 2-3 weeks
for delivery in the U.S.
Prices subject to change
without notice.

®

The Cobra
line of quality
products includes:

CB Radios
microTALK®Radios
Radar/Laser Detectors
Safety Alert®Traffic

Warning Systems
Accessories
GPS (Global

Positioning System)
HighGear®Accessories
VHF Marine Radios
Power Inverters

English

44

purchase

Item # U.S. Cost Each Qty Amount

Tax Table

Wisconsin add 5%
Indiana, Ohio, Michigan add 6%
California add 7.25%
Illinois add 8.75%

U.S. Subtotal

(Tax if Applicable)

Shipping/Handling

Total

Optional accessories

You can find quality Cobra®products and accessories at
your local Cobra®dealer, or in the U.S.A., you can order
directly from Cobra®.

Ordering from U.S.A.

Call 773-889-3087 for pricing or visit www.cobra.com.
For credit card orders, complete and return this order

form to fax number 773-622-2269. Or call 773-889-3087
(Press 1 from the main menu) 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT,
Monday through Friday.

Make check or money order payable to:

Cobra®Electronics, Attn: Accessories Dept.
6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago, IL 60707 USA

To order online, please visit our website: www.cobra.com

•

•

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