Cobra MR F77B GPS, MR F77W GPS User Manual

Owner’s Manual

Version E
PartNo. 480-1016-P	MR F77W GPS
in China	MR F77B GPS
Printed	Class-D Fixed Mount VHF Radio
	Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®	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 VHF transceiver for fixed mounting on your boat. 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, in the U.S.A., the radio can provide quick access to receive eight NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) and two Canadian weather channels for alerting you to weather emergencies with a tone on a weather channel you can select for your area.

Customer Assistance

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 5:30 p.m. Central Time Mon. through Fri. (except holidays) 773-889-3087 (phone).

Questions English and Spanish.

Faxes can be received at 773-622-2269 (fax).

Technical Assistance English only.

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

For Assistance Outside The U.S.A.

Contact Your Local Dealer

A1 English

©2015 Cobra Electronics Corporation

6500 West Cortland Street

Chicago, Illinois 60707 USA

www.cobra.com

Transceiver Controls,
Indicators And Connections
Introduction	Active
Soft Keys-	Channel
	Number
Allows user to		Up & Down
select current
		Buttons
options displayed	Backlit LCD		On-Off
on the screen.
	Screen		Power/
			Volume
			Knob

DSC Distress Button

(Behind Red Spring

Loaded Cover)

Squelch

Knob

Menu	Instant Channel
Button	16/9 Button

Rewind-Say-

High/Low Again® Button

Power Button

GPS-In

Connection

GPS-Out

& Alarm In

Connection

PA/Speaker

Connection

Antenna Socket	Power
	Connection

Product Features

Introduction

Product Features	•

Built-In GPS Receiver

Shows GPS coordinates on screen and automatically sends GPS location with DSC calls.

Rewind-Say-Again®

Replay missed VHF calls. Automatically records the last 20 seconds of incoming radio transmissions. Great when in noisy conditions.

Dual Power

Selectable to one (1) or 25 watts output power for near or distant calling.

USA/International/Canada Channels

Allows operation on any of the three (3) different channel maps established for these areas.

All 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.

Instant Channel 16/9

Instant access to the priority Channel 16 and calling Channel 9.

Digital Selective Calling (DSC Class-D)

Allows the ability to maintain a listening watch on VHF Channel 16 while simultaneously monitoring Channel 70 for DSC calls. Allows sending a distress

message at the touch of a button as well as specific station-to-station calls. Radio utilizes two (2) built-in encoders (receivers).

Memory Scan

Lets you scan through all selected memory channels to find conversations in progress.

Tri-Watch

Lets you monitor three (3) channels at once — Channel 16, Channel 9, and one (1) user selectable channel.

Noise Canceling Microphone

Blocks background noise to let your voice be heard at the receiving station.

Illuminated Buttons

Helps you quickly find the buttons you need in low light conditions.

Mounting Kits Included

Radio can be mounted on, under, or in almost any flat surface using one (1) of the included brackets.

Waterproof

Submersible to (1.5) meters of water for 30 minutes - meets IPX8/JIS8 Standards.

Alarm In

Allows connection to the alarm output of your chart plotter to alert you when an arrival, off-course, etc. alarm has been activated.

A2 English

A3 English

Table Of Contents
Introduction
Introduction
Our Thanks To You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	A1
Customer Assistance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	A1
Transceiver Controls, Indicators And Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	A2
Product Features.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	A3
Important Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	. 2
Recommendations For Marine Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	. 4
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
FCC Licensing Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	. 5
VHF Marine Radio Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	6
Voice Calling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	. 7
Digital Selective Calling (DSC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	8
Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	. 9
Radiotelephone Calls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	10
Emergency Messages And Distress Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	10
Marine Distress Procedure – DSC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	13
Installation and Start-Up
Included In This Package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	14
Accessories Order Info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	15
Mounting and Powering The Radio.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	16
Antenna Requirements And Attachment.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	20
External Devices And Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	22
Operating Your Radio
Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	24
Set-Up Routines.. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 28
Voice Transmission.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	32
NOAA All Hazards/Weather Radio And Alert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	33
GPS Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	33
Digital Select Calling (DSC) Set-Up.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	38
Advanced Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	44
Digital Select Calling (DSC) Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	50
Maintenance and Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	64
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	65
Appendix
VHF Marine Channel Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	66
NOAA Weather Channels And Alert.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	81
World City Time Zones.. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 82
Warranty
Limited 3-Year Warranty.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	83
Customer Service
Product Service.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	84
Flush Mount Template. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	85
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra® 1

Important Safety Information

Introduction

Important Safety Information	•

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

Warning And Notice Statements

To make the most of this radio, it must be installed and used properly..

Please read the installation and operating instructions carefully before installing and using it.. Special attention must be paid to the WARNING and NOTICE statements in this manual..

WARNING

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

NOTICE

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

Safety Training Information

This CobraMarine radio is designed for and classified as “Occupational Use Only..” 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..”

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

νAmerican 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..

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

νCobra Electronics Corporation™ recommendations for radio frequency exposure are based upon the federal regulatory requirements in the U..S..A.. Your country may have different requirements.. Ask your dealer or another knowledgeable person.. Compliance with recommendations for Radio Frequency Exposure is the responsibility of both the antenna installer and the radio operator..

2 English

Important Safety Information

Introduction

The following WARNINGS and NOTICES 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..

WARNINGS

Your radio generates electromagnetic RF (radio frequency) energy when it is transmitting.. To ensure that you and those around you are not exposed to excessive amounts of that energy, DO NOT touch the antenna when

transmitting.. KEEP the radio at least two (2) inches (5 cm) away from yourself and others when transmitting.. SEE page 20 in the antenna requirements section for further information..

DO NOT operate the radio without a proper antenna or equivalent dummy load attached.. Doing so may expose you to excessive RF energy and will damage the radio..

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

ALWAYS use only Cobra authorized accessories..

NEVER connect the transceiver to AC power.. It can be a fire hazard, may cause an electric shock, and may damage the transceiver..

NEVER mount the transceiver or microphone where they might interfere with operation of your vessel or cause injury..

DO NOT allow children or anyone unfamiliar with proper procedures to operate the radio without supervision..

Failure to observe any of these warnings may cause you to exceed

FCC, Industry Canada or EU RF exposure limits or create other dangerous conditions..

NOTE

Throughout this manual, the term “Transceiver” will be used to identify the main unit containing the LCD screen and controls.. The term “Radio” will be used to identify the entire equipment including transceiver, microphone, antenna and any attached external speakers..

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra® 3

Recommendations For

Marine Communication

Introduction

NOTICES

AVOID using or storing the radio at temperatures below -4°F (-20°C) or above 140°F (55°C)..

NEVER connect the transceiver to DC power greater than 16 volts or to

any DC source with reversed polarity.. Doing so will damage the transceiver..

DO NOT cut the power cables attached to the transceiver.. Improper reconnection with reversed polarity will damage the transceiver..

POSITION your radio, external speakers, and cables at least three (3) feet (0..9 m) away from your vessel’s magnetic navigation compass.. CHECK your compass before and after installation to be sure that it has not introduced any deviation..

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

DO NOT drop the transceiver or microphone.. Doing so may crack the case or damage a waterproof seal.. Once these items have been dropped, the original waterproofing cannot be guaranteed..

DO NOT use chemicals or solvents such as mineral spirits and alcohol to clean your radio.. They may damage the case surfaces..

Changes or modifications to your radio MAY VOID its compliance with FCC (Federal Communications Commission) rules and make it illegal to use..

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 25 watt maximum output of your radio isn’t sufficient for the distances you travel from the coast, consider installing 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..

FCC Information

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Sea Tow Automated Radio Check (ARC) System	•

Please try the Sea Tow Automated Radio Check service.. Areas where the safety check service is available include the East Coast, Gulf of Mexico, Southern California, and select inland locations including the Great Lakes.. The first and only boating safety program of its kind, the Sea Tow Automated Radio Check service is fully automated and allows 24 hour a day automated responses to radio check calls..

Conducting a radio check through the Sea Tow Automated Radio Check service couldn’t be simpler.. All boaters need to do is tune their VHF radio to Channel 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 or 84 (channel varies by location), then key the mic and ask for a radio check.. The system responds to each radio check with an automated reply including the location, and also

replays the boater’s original radio transmission, allowing them to assess the strength of the signal and confirm the VHF radio is in good working order..

To find the Sea Tow Automated Radio Check service channel in an area boaters, radio owners should visit www..seatow..com/arc.. The web page allows you to search for the local channel and has an instructional video on how to use the service step by step..

FCC LICENSING INFORMATION	•

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

This CobraMarine radio incorporates a VHF FM transceiver designed for use in the frequency range of 156..025 to 163..275 MHz.. It requires 13..8 volts DC and has a switchable RF output power of one (1) or 25 watts..

The transceiver is capable of Class-D (Digital Selective Calling) operation in accordance with CFR Part 47, Section 80,225..

The radio operates on all currently allocated marine channels and is switchable for use according to U..S..A.., International, or Canadian regulations.. It features instant access to emergency Channel 16 and calling Channel 9 as well as NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) All Hazards Radio with Alert that can be accessed by pressing one (1) 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 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..

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..

4 English

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra® 5

VHF Marine Radio

Procedures

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Radio Call Sign

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

Canadian Ship Station License

You need a Radio Operator’s Certificate if your vessel is operated in Canadian waters.. Radio Operator training and certification is available from the Canadian Power Squadron.. Visit their website (http://www..cps-ecp..ca/english/newradiocard..html), contact the nearest field office or write: Industry of Canada, Radio Regulatory Branch, Attn: DOSP, 300 Slater Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0C8..

User Responsibility And Operating Locations

All users are responsible for observing domestic and foreign government regulations and are subject to severe penalties for violations.. The VHF frequencies on your radio are

reserved for marine use and require a special license to operate from land, including when your boat is on its trailer..

NOTE

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules.. Operation is

subject to the following two (2) conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation..

FCC Warnings: Replacement or substitution of transistors, regular diodes, or other parts of a unique nature, with parts other than those recommended

by Cobra® may cause a violation of the technical regulations of part 80 of the FCC Rules, or violation of type acceptance requirements of part 2 of the rules..

	VHF Marine Radio Procedures	•
	Maintain Your Watch

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

Power

Try 1 watt first if the station being called is within a few miles.. Try a second call after waiting two (2) minutes.. If there is no answer, switch to a higher power.. This will conserve your battery and minimize interference to other users by avoiding repeated calls..

Calling Coast Stations

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

Calling Other Vessels

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

Initial Calling on Channel 16 or 9

Voice Calling

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

The use of Channel 16 is permitted for making initial contact (hailing) with another vessel.. The limits on calling must be followed.. Be reminded, Channel 16’s most important function is for Emergency Messages.. If, for some reason, Channel 16 is congested, the use of Channel 9, especially in U..S.. waters, may be used as the initial contact (hailing) channel for non-emergency communication..

Limits On Calling

You must not call the same station for more than 30 seconds at a time..

If you do not get a reply, wait at least two (2) minutes before calling again.. After three (3) calling periods, wait at least 15 minutes before calling again..

Change Channels

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

Station Identification

Identify, in English, your station by your FCC call sign, 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:

νFalse distress or emergency messages..

νMessages containing obscene, indecent, or profane words or meaning..

νGeneral 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..

νWhen you are on land..

Voice Calling	•

To Call Another Vessel Or A Shore Installation Such As A Lock Or Bridge Tender:

νMake sure your radio is On..

νSelect 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..

νWhen 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]..”

νOnce contact is made on the calling channel, you must switch to a proper working channel.. See the channel listing on page 66 through 78..

6 English

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra® 7

Digital Selective Calling (DSC)

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

For Example

The vessel Corsair calling the vessel Vagabond:

Corsair: “Vagabond, this is Corsair (station license number call sign)..” Vagabond: “Corsair, this is Vagabond.. Over..”

Corsair: “Vagabond go to working Channel 68.. Over..”

Both parties switch over to the agreed upon working channel.... . .

Corsair: “Vagabond I need to talk to you about.... . Over..”

Vagabond: “Corsair in answer to your question about.... .	Over..”
Corsair: “Vagabond, thanks for the information about.... .	(call sign and out)..”

After each transmission, say “OVER” and release the microphone Push to Talk (PTT) button.. This confirms that the transmission has ended.. When all communication with the other vessel is totally completed, end the message by stating your call sign and the word “OUT..” Remember, it is not necessary to state your call sign with each transmission, only at the beginning and end of the message..

NOTE

For best sound quality at the shore station or other vessel receiving your call, hold the microphone/speaker at least 2 in.. (51 mm) from your mouth and

slightly off to one (1) side.. Speak in a normal tone of voice..

Digital Selective Calling (DSC)	•

Digital selective calling is a semi-automated system for establishing a radio call.. It has been designed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as an international standard for VHF, MF, and HF calls and is part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)..

DSC will eventually replace aural (listening) watches on distress frequencies and will be used to announce routine and urgent maritime safety information

broadcasts.. Until DSC is fully implemented, it is still necessary to maintain a listening watch on Channel 16..

The DSC system allows mariners to instantly send a distress call with GPS position coordinates (requires a GPS receiver to be connected to the radio) to the Coast Guard and other vessels within range of the transmission..

DSC also allows mariners to initiate and receive distress, urgent, safety, routine, position request, position send, and group calls between vessels equipped with DSC capable radios..

	Maritime Mobile
	Service Identity (MMSI)
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI)		•

The MMSI Number Is Available In The U.S.A. From Any Of Two (2) Sources:

νU..S.. Power Squadron www..usps..org

νBoatU..S..: 1-800-563-1536 – www..boatus..com/mmsi

NOTE

The above references are for recreational vessels only.. Commercial vessels should contact the FCC..

An MMSI is a nine (9) digit number used on a marine radio capable of using digital selective calling (DSC).. It is used to selectively call other vessels or shore stations and is similar to a telephone number..

For your CobraMarine™ radio to operate in the DSC mode, you must enter your maritime mobile service identity (MMSI) number.. See page 41 for instructions on how to enter it..

In Canada, Contact:

νIndustry Canada Spectrum Management Office (only available on the Internet): www..ic..gc..ca and search for “MMSI”..

To Obtain An MMSI Number Outside The U.S.A.:

Users can obtain an MMSI from their country’s telecommunications authority or ship registry.. This may involve amending or obtaining a ship station license..

WARNING

This equipment is designed to generate a digital maritime distress and

safety signal to facilitate search and rescue.. To be effective as a safety device, this equipment must be used only within communication range

of a shore-based VHF marine channel to distress and safety watch system.. The range of the signal may vary, but under normal conditions should be approximately 20 nautical miles..

8 English

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra® 9

		Radiotelephone Calls
	VHF Marine Radio Protocols
	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..

Use channel 16 to communicate your emergency message.. Make sure you transmit on high power.. If you are merely out of gas, do not send an emergency message.. Drop your anchor and call a friend or marine to bring the fuel you need or to give you a tow..

Emergency Messages

And Distress Procedure

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Marine Emergency Signals

The three (3) 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

The urgency signal PAN is used when the safety of the vessel or person is in jeopardy.. (This signal is properly pronounced 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 (3) times prior to the message..

If You Hear A Distress Call

You must give any message beginning with one (1) of these signals priority over any other messages.. ALL stations MUST remain silent on Channel 16 for the duration of the emergency unless the message relates directly to the emergency..

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

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Emergency Messages

And Distress Procedure

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

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,”

or “SECURITE — SECURITE — SECURITE..”)

4.Say:

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

5.Say:

“MAYDAY (or “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..

Emergency Messages

And Distress Procedure

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

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 (3) times] “Mayday Corsair (or Illinois 1234 AB)”

“Navy Pier bears 220 degrees magnetic — distance five (5) 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..

Marine Distress Procedure – DSC	•

Digital Selective Calling (DSC) is a semi-automated system that will allow you to press the Distress button from any routine to make a distress call.. When the distress button is pressed, all other channels go to Standby mode and allow the digitally encoded “pre-programmed” message to take precedence.. Important information such as your MMSI number, position and name will be transmitted on Channel 16.. The distress alarm will sound for two (2) minutes or until the alarm is cleared..

The DSC system allows you to choose a “pre-programmed” distress call such as: “Man Overboard, Sinking, Collision..” There are many pre-programmed choices to choose from.. If a GPS is connected to your radio, your coordinates will also be sent to the Coast Guard as well as to other vessels that are within range of the transmission.. DSC calling also allows the user to initiate and receive distress, urgent, safety, routine, position request, position send and group calls between vessels equipped with DSC capable radios..

WARNING

This radio will generate a digital maritime distress and safety signal to help facilitate search and rescue.. This radio must be used only within

communication range of a shore based VHF station with a distress and safety watch system.. The range of the signal may vary, however, under normal conditions should be approximately 20 nautical miles..

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Included In This Package

Installation And Start-Up

Included In This Package		•
You should find all of the following items in the
package with your CobraMarine VHF radio:
Transceiver*	Transceiver Flush Mount Kit	Transceiver Surface Mount Kit

Microphone

Microphone Mounting Kit

Operating Instruction Manual

Transceiver Controls,

Indicators And Connections

Warning Sticker

GPS Interface Cable

Accessories Order Info

Installation And Start

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

Call 773-889-3087 [Press one from the main menu] 8:00 a..m.. to 5:30 p..m.. Central Time, Monday through Friday..

Make Check or Money Order Payable To

Cobra Electronics, Attn: Accessories Dept..,

6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago, IL 60707 U..S..A..

To Order Online

Please visit our website: www..cobra..com

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		Mounting And
		Powering The Radio
	Installation And Start-Up
	Mounting And Powering The Radio		•

Before using your CobraMarine VHF radio, it must be installed on your vessel.

Installing Your Radio

Choose a location for your radio where it will be conveniently accessible with the following factors in mind:

νThe leads to the battery and the antenna are best kept as short as possible.

νThe antenna must be mounted at least three (3) feet from the transceiver.

νThe radio and all speakers need to be far enough from any magnetic compass to avoid deviation due to the speaker magnet.

νThere needs to be free air flow around the heat-sink fins on the back of the transceiver.

Surface Mount

A Surface Mounting kit is included with your CobraMarine VHF radio to allow its installation on almost any flat surface.

Surface Mounting Kit

Tilt Lock Knobs

To Mount The Transceiver

On Almost Any Flat Surface:

1.Use the mounting bracket as a template to drill holes for the mounting screws.

2.Attach the mounting bracket to the chosen surface.

3.Attach the transceiver to the mounting bracket with the locking knobs.

4.Tilt the transceiver to a convenient angle and

tighten the locking knobs.

Installation And Start-Up

Microphone Bracket

Use Supplied Template

See page 85 for template.

Insert Transceiver

Adjust Screws

Mounting And

Powering The Radio

Microphone Bracket

To Install The Microphone Bracket:

1.Install the microphone bracket

on a vertical surface near the transceiver using the supplied stainless steel screws.

Flush Mount

A Flush Mounting kit is included with your CobraMarine VHF radio to allow its installation in almost any flat surface.

To Mount The Transceiver Flush In Almost Any Flat Surface:

1.Use the supplied template to mark and cut an opening in the flat surface. See page 85 for template.

CAUTION

Before cutting, be sure the area behind the flat surface is clear of any instruments or wires that might be damaged in the process.

2.Insert the transceiver into the opening.

3.Attach the flush mounting brackets to the sides of the transceiver with the adjusting screw flanges facing the back of the flat surface.

4.Tighten the adjusting screws against the back of the flat surface until the flange on the front of the transceiver is tight against the flat surface.

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Installation And Start-Up

Warning Sticker

Mounting And

Powering The Radio

Warning Sticker

FCC regulations require that the Warning Sticker supplied with this radio be applied to a spot where it is easily seen by the radio operator. Be sure the location is clean and dry before applying the sticker.

	Power Connection Cables		Electrical Power Connection
			Your CobraMarine VHF radio is powered
			from +10.0V			to­ +16.0V		vessel direct
			current electrical, negative ground
			systems (12-volt nominal). A fused
			power connection lead is provided at the
	Red Cable		back of the transceiver.
		– +	To Connect To A Power Source:
	Positive (+)
	Black Cable		1. Attach the black (-) wire to a negative
	Negative (-)		(-) ground.

2. Attach the fused red power (+) wire to the positive (+) side of the power system.

NOTE

This radio will draw up to 8 amps when transmitting at full power.

NOTICES

A reverse polarity connection will damage the radio.

When replacing the fuse in your transceiver, use only the size and type originally provided.

Mounting And

Powering The Radio

Installation And Start-Up

NOTE

All wiring is best kept as short as possible. If the power leads must be extended, use a high-quality, marine-grade cable sized for up to 10 amps of current. To minimize voltage drop, choose a wire gauge as follows:

Length	Wire Gauge
Up to 1.5m(4.9ft)	1.6 mils(#14)
Up to 3.0m(9.8 ft)	2.0 mils(#12)
Up to 5.0m(16.4 ft)	2.6 mils(#10)
Up to 6.0m(19.7 ft)	3.3 mils(#8)

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		Antenna Requirements
		And Attachment
	Installation And Start-Up
	Antenna Requirements And Attachment		•
	Antenna Requirements

Your CobraMarine VHF radio requires an external marine antenna

to send signals into the air and to receive them. The radio is arranged to use any of the popular marine VHF antennas, but it is up to you to choose which antenna to use.

Since it represents the link between your radio and the outside world, Cobra® suggests you purchase the best quality antenna, coaxial cable, and connectors you can. This is best accomplished with the advice and guidance of a knowledgeable dealer who can assess the variables involved with your particular boat and preferences.

WARNING

Compliance with FCC requirements for Radio Frequency Exposure is the responsibility of both the antenna installer and the radio operator.

Safe Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) Radius

To avoid health hazards from excessive exposure to RF energy, FCC OET Bulletin 65 establishes an MPE radius of 10’ (3 m) for the maximum power

of your radio with an antenna having a maximum power gain of 9 dBi. This means that all persons must be at least 10’ (3 m) away from the antenna when the radio is transmitting.

Installation Requirements

A)An omnidirectional antenna with a gain not greater than 9 dBi must be mounted at least 16.4’ (5 m) above the highest deck where people

may be during radio transmissions, measured vertically from the lowest point of the antenna. This provides the minimum separation distance

to comply with RF exposure requirements and is based on the MPE radius of 10’ (3 m) plus the 6.6’ (2 m) height of an adult.

B)For vessels without structure to mount the antenna as described in A, it must be mounted as follows AND all persons must be outside the 10’ (3 m) MPE radius during radio transmissions. The antenna must

be mounted so that its lowest point is at least 3.3’ (1 m) vertically above the heads of all persons during radio transmissions.

Antenna Requirements

And Attachment

Installation And Start-Up

Radio Operator Requirements

Do not transmit when anyone is within the MPE radius of the antenna unless that person or persons are shielded from the antenna by a grounded metallic barrier. This is especially important on vessels with antennas mounted as described in B where no one may be within 9’ (2.8 m) horizontally from the base of the antenna during transmissions.

FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE ABOVE LIMITS MAY EXPOSE THOSE WITHIN THE MPE RADIUS TO RF ENERGY ABSORPTION IN EXCESS OF THE FCC MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE EXPOSURE. IT IS THE RADIO OPERATOR’S RESPONSIBILITY TO INSURE THAT MPE LIMITS ARE HEEDED AND THAT NO ONE IS WITHIN THE MPE RADIUS DURING TRANSMISSIONS.

Coaxial Cable Socket

Antenna Lead Attachment

Once the antenna is installed, the Coaxial Cable Lead can be attached to the socket at the back of the transceiver.

CAUTION

Attempting to transmit without an antenna attached will damage your CobraMarine VHF radio.

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External Devices
And Connections
Installation And Start-Up
External Devices And Connections	•

Your CobraMarine VHF radio is set up to connect auxiliary devices for navigation, convenience, and added versatility. As is the case with the antenna, choosing these devices is best done with the advice and guidance of a knowledgeable dealer. Standard connectors are provided on the front and back of the transceiver.

External Speaker (Not Included)

An External Speaker can provide greater volume to hear messages than the speaker incorporated in the CobraMarine.

To Install An External Speaker:

1.Connect the wires to the External Speaker as follows: Orange wire - +Positive connection

Black wire - -Negative connection (Black wire is common shared -Negative for the External Speaker and PA output)

2.Make sure to solder, crimp, or twist the wires together rmly and use shrink tubing or electrical tape to waterproof the connection.

Public Address Speaker (Not Included)

At times, it may be handy to hail other boats or give instructions to line handlers on the dock. Your CobraMarine VHF radio can be switched to operate in the Public Address mode through an attached PA speaker.

To Install A Public Address Speaker:

1.Connect the wires to the External Speaker as follows: Red wire - +Positive connection

Black wire - -Negative connection (Black wire is common shared -Negative for the External Speaker and PA output)

2.Make sure to solder, crimp, or twist the wires together rmly and use shrink tubing or electrical tape to waterproof the connection.

Wiring Located at Back		Wiring for External and
of Radio		Public Address Speakers

External Devices

And Connections

Installation And Start-Up

Global Positioning System (GPS) Device

Your Cobra Marine radio includes a built-in GPS receiver. Your position will be continuously indicated on the LCD and, most importantly, it will be included automatically with any DSC Distress message you may need to send. That will take the “search” out of “search and rescue”.

An external GPS input connector has been provided to allow connection to a back-up GPS receiver.

To Install an External GPS Device:

1.Install the GPS device in a convenient location according to its manufacturer’s directions.

2.Plug-in the optional Cobra C.P.S. (Cobra Positioning System) into the provided 2.5mm jack.

3.Or using the supplied 2-wire adapter wire as follows: Yellow wire - NMEA 0183 +Data in

Green wire - NMEA 0183 -Data in.

	Wiring Located at Back		Cobra Positioning		GPS Interface Cable
	of Radio		System Plug

NOTE

Satellite acquisition time is dependent on the antenna mounting location. If the acquisition takes too long, relocate the radio or use an external GPS receiver.

NOTE

GPS data input is as follows:

•Input voltage (peak to peak): 10V

•Maximum data rate: 4800 baud

•Impedance: 4K

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