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 ten (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
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
customer assistance ser
vices:
®
Electronics offers the following
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. productinfo
Order Form And Optional Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
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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.
General Precautions
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:
ALWAYS hold the radio at least two (2) inches [Five (5) cm] away from
you when you are transmitting.
NEVER allow the antenna to touch any part of your body when transmitting.
KEEP the radio at least as far from bystanders as from yourself.
DO NOT transmit more than 50% of the time the radio is in use.
DO NOT operate the radio in an explosive atmosphere, near blasting sites,
or in any area where signs are posted prohibiting radio transmissions.
DO NOT allow children or anyone unfamiliar with proper procedures
to operate the radio without supervision.
•
CAUTIONS
Your radio is splashproof only when the 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 (3) feet (0.9 m) 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.
Changes or modifications to your radio
MAY VOID its compliance
with FCC rules and make it illegal to use.
2
English
Nothing comes close to a Cobra
®
3
Assistance
Warranty
CustomerAssistance
Introduction
Recommendations For
Marine CommunicationFCC 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 two (2) watt maximum output of your radio isn’t sufficient for the
distances you travel from the coast, consider purchasing a CobraMarine
radio with up to five (5) watts of output power or installing a Cobra
™
hand held
®
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 Communication
Commission) requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Ser
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.
vice.
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.
English
4
•
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.
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
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 inter
ference, 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
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VHF Marine Radio
ProceduresVoice 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-half (1⁄2) 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 (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:
■
False distress or emergency messages.
■
Messages containing obscene, indecent, or profane words or meaning.
6
■
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
•
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 page 12 through 13.
For Example
The vessel Corsair calling the vessel V
Corsair:
“Vagabond, this is Corsair.”
agabond:
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’re calling, hold the microphone
at least two (2) inches [five (5) cm] from your mouth and slightly off to
one (1) side. Speak in a normal tone of voice.
Nothing comes close to a Cobra
®
7
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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 VHF radio and telephones on land, sea, and in the air.
See pages 12 to 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 (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.
AN
P
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
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.
. If the distressed vessel is not nearby,
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,”
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.”
End message by saying:
13.
“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 (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 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
Assistance
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VHF Marine Radio Protocols
VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
VHF Marine Channel Assignments
Three (3) 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 (3) maps, but there are definite differences (see tables on the following
pages). Your radio has all three (3) 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.
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.
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 (1) 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.
04Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement
04AWest Coast (Coast Guard Only); East Coast (Commercial Fishing)
05Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement
05APort Operations, VTS in selected areas
06Intership Safety
07Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement
07ACommercial
08Commercial (Intership Only)
09Boater Calling Channel, Non-Commercial (Recreational)
10Commercial
11Commercial, VTS in selected areas
12Port Operations, VTS in selected areas
13Intership Navigation Safety (Bridge-to-Bridge). In U.S. waters,
large vessels maintain a listening watch on this channel.
14Port Operations, VTS in selected areas
15Environmental (Receive Only). Used by class C EPIRB’s.
15Canada (EPIRB Buoys Only); International (On-Board Communication)
88Public Correspondence (Ship to Coast). In U.S. only within
75 miles of Canadian Border.
Commercial Intership only
88A
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
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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 (4) to six (6) minutes and are revised every two (2)
or three (3) 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 signal is sent on the weather channel you last
used, your radio will switch from
Standby mode to that weather channel. You will
not hear the tone signal, but you will hear the weather alert message. The WeatherAlert icon can be turned On or Off by pressing the Mode button.
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.
You should find all of the following items in the
package with your CobraMarine
RadioWaterproof Pouch
Operating Instruction ManualBelt Clip
Wrist Strap
™
VHF radio:
Nothing comes close to a Cobra
•
®
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IntroOperationCustomer
MainIcons
SecondaryIcons
IntroOperationCustomer
MainIcons
SecondaryIcons
IntroOperationCustomer
MainIcons
SecondaryIcons
Wrist Strap, Belt Clip, Spkr/Mic
Jack And Waterproof Pouch
Installation
Batteries And Charger Jack
Wrist Strap, Belt Clip, Spkr/Mic Jack And Waterproof Pouch
The radio is shipped with a Wrist Strap, Belt Clip and Waterproof Pouch in the
package. The Speaker/Microphone Jack can be used with additional accessories.
Contact your local Cobra
Wrist Strap
®
dealer or Cobra®directly for optional accessories.
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
Belt Clip
Use the Belt Clip to carry your radio around with
you. Simply squeeze the clip and place it where
you prefer.
External Speaker/Microphone Jack
Your radio can be fitted with an optional External Speaker/Microphone
(not included), freeing your hands for other tasks. Contact your local Cobra
dealer or Cobra®directly for optional accessories.
Speaker/Microphone Tab
To Attach The External Speaker/Microphone:
Open the speaker/microphone tab on top
1.
of the radio.
2. Insert the plug into the speaker/microphone jack.
Waterproof Pouch
Use the included Waterproof Pouch to not only keep your radio dry,
but also dust and dirt free.
Waterproof Pouch
English
24
To Enclose The Radio In The Waterproof Pouch:
With the CobraMarine™logo facing up,
1.
slip radio, face up, into opening under
®
Velcro
flap at the bottom of the
waterproof pouch.
2. Turn pouch and radio over so that the
CobraMarine
3. Roll bottom of pouch (between Velcro
™
logo is facing down.
®
pieces) towards upper piece of Velcro®.
4. Secure bottom piece of Velcro®to
upper piece of Velcro
®
.
•
Batteries And Charger Jack
Remove Belt Clip
Installing The Batteries (Not Included)
•
To Install Or Replace Batteries:
Remove belt clip by releasing belt clip
1.
latch and sliding clip down.
2. Pull down on the battery door latch to
remove the battery compartment cover.
3. Insert four (4) AAA batteries. (Always use high
emove Battery Cover
R
quality alkaline batteries.) Position batteries
according to polarity markings.
4. Replace battery compartment cover and belt clip.
Charger Jack
When the optional Cobra®NiCD rechargeable batteries
(part No. NICB) are used, the batteries can be charged
®
Insert Four (4) Batteries
using the optional Cobra
No. WWC). Simply place the Cobra
®
wall mount charger (part
®
NiCD rechargeable
batteries (part No. NICB) in the battery compartment,
open the charge tab on the side of the unit and insert
the plug into the
Charger Jack to start charging. The
batteries should be fully charged in about 15 hours.
NOTE
Contact your local Cobra®dealer or Cobra
®
directly for optional accessories.
WARNING
Only the rechargeable NiCD batteries
(part No. NiCB) can be recharged.
Maintaining The Battery Charge
Fully Charged
As you use your radio, the battery power icon will
show the battery power remaining. When the icon
shows only one or no segment, it is time to change
the batteries.
Nothing comes close to a Cobra
®
25
Operating Your Radio
Getting StartedGetting 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 transceiver or on the microphone. 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 (5) seconds after the button is released.
At times you will hear two (2) other sounds. Two (2) beeps will sound to confirm
your setting changes and three (3) 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.
ower/Volume Knob
On-Off P
On-Off Power/Volume Knob
To Turn Your Radio On:
1.
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 (2) seconds. All buttons will be
inoperative during these two (2) seconds.
After two (2) 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.
When first turned on or after memory loss,
the following defaults will be set:
■
Channel 1A
■
Transmit power high
■
Frequency channel map set to U.S.A.
■
Battery indicator set
To Turn Your Radio Off:
Turn the On-Off Power/Volume knob all the way
1.
counter-clockwise until you hear and feel a click.
Operating Your Radio
n-Off Power/Volume Knob
•
O
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:
Turn the On-Off Power/Volume knob clockwise.
1.
To Decrease the Volume:
Turn the On-Off Power/Volume knob counter-clockwise.
1.
ower Saver Icon
P
Power Saver
Your radio has a unique circuit designed to extend battery
life. If there are no transmissions within ten (10) seconds,
the radio will automatically switch to
Power Save mode
and the Save icon will flash in the LCD. This will not affect
the radio’s ability to receive incoming transmissions.
Weather/UIC Button
U.S.A./International/Canada Channel Maps
Three (3) 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 (3) maps, but there are definite differences
Active Channel Map Icon
(see information on pages 14 to 21). Your radio has all
three (3) maps built into it and will operate correctly in
whichever area you choose.
To Set Your Radio For The Area
In Which You Will Be Using It:
From Standby mode
1.
, press and hold the
Weather/UIC button for three (3) seconds.
The U, I, or C icon will blink on the LCD.
Repeat step 1 to shift to the next channel map(s).
26
English
Nothing comes close to a Cobra
®
27
Operating Your Radio
Getting StartedGetting Started
Operating Your Radio
hannel Up or Down Buttons
C
Currently On Channel 88
w Power Mode
Lo
High Power Mode
w Power – Lock Button
High/Lo
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.
To Change Channels:
Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button.
1.
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 radio is in the
Key Lock mode, the channel will not
change and the three (3) beep error signal will sound.
Transmit Power Output
Your radio can Transmit selectively at one-half (1⁄2) or
two (2) watts of power. Cobra
the low power setting for short-range communications,
to conserve battery life, and to avoid overpowering nearby
stations with your signal. Use the high power setting for
long-range communications or when you do not receive
a response to a signal sent at one-half (
To Toggle Between The High
And Low Power Modes:
Press the High/Low Power – Lock button.
1.
The LCD will show which mode is in effect.
®
suggests you maintain
1
⁄2) watt.
acklight/Monitor Button
B
Locked Buttons
w Power-Lock Button
High/Lo
ey Lock Icon
K
Backlight
The LCD will be illuminated by the Backlight whenever the
Backlight/Monitor button is pressed. It will remain On for
(10) seconds. If a button on the front panel is pressed
while the
Backlight is On, it will remain On for ten (10)
seconds after that button is pressed.
Key Lock
To prevent accidental changes to your settings, you can
Lock:
■
Channel Up Button
■
Channel Down Button
■
High/Low Power Feature
■
Mode Button
■
Weather/UIC Button
To Lock Or Unlock The Buttons:
Press and hold the Hi-Lo Power/Lock button
1.
for three (3) seconds. The Lock icon will appear
or disappear in the LCD.
When key lock is
on the front of the radio will result in a three (3) beep
error message. Both the
the Talk button are active — you can receive or transmit
a message with key lock On, but you cannot change
the channel.
On, pressing any of the listed buttons
Backlight/Monitor button and
28
English
Nothing comes close to a Cobra
®
29
Operating Your Radio
Assistance
W
arranty
C
ustomer
Assistance
Standby/Receive And TransmitStandby/Receive And Transmit
Standby/Receive And Transmit
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
on the selected channel(s) and alerts broadcast by the Coast Guard and NOAA
will activate the corresponding routines in your radio.
NOTE
Coast Guard alerts are broadcast on Channel 16 and you
need to have weather alert turned On to receive NOAA alerts.
While in
channel to which you are tuned.
Transmit mode using the Talk button. Signals will be Received
Standby mode, you will receive any messages sent on the
Operating Your Radio
heck Channel Number
•
C
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. (See pages 12 through 21 to help
you select the proper channels.)
Low Power Mode
To Transmit A Message:
Check to see that your radio is set to a proper channel
1.
for the type of message you plan to send.
2. Toggle to the low power setting.
3. With the microphone about two (2) inches [five (5) cm]
2 Inches (5 cm) From Mouth
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 or the Receive mode at any given time. You
will not hear the response to your message unless the
Talk button is released.
Talk Button
When the last segment disappears from the
icon, the battery outline of the icon will start to
Power
Battery
blink to indicate very little power is left. The radio will
still transmit until the battery voltage drops below the
minimum required to operate the radio.
30
English
Transmit Icon
Nothing comes close to a Cobra
®
31
Operating Your Radio
Assistance
Warranty
CustomerAssistance
Weather Radio And AlertWeather Radio And Alert
Operating Your Radio
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 tune to these ten (10) channels at any
time (only in the
NOTE
Only one (1) or two (2) 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.
Mode Button
Weather Mode
Channel Up or Down Buttons
Receive mode).
To Listen To The Weather Channels:
From Standby mode, press the Weather/UIC button.
1.
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.
3. 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 signal
in the area where you are, and you must activate the
Weather Alert mode on
your radio to benefit from this signal.
Mode Button
To Activate Weather Alert:
Press the Mode button until the Weather Alert icon
1.
flashes and the current On or Off setting is displayed.
2. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button
Weather Alert Icon
to turn Weather Alert mode On or Off.
3. Alert icon will continue to be displayed when weather alert is On.
a. Press the Mode button to enter the new
setting and proceed to other functions.
b. Press the Talk button to enter the new
settings and return to Standby mode.
Channel Up or Down Buttons
Weather Alert Signal
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 signal is sent
on the weather channel
will switch from
you last used, your radio
Standby mode to that weather
channel. You will not hear the tone signal, but
you will hear the weather alert message. The
Weather Alert icon can be turned On or Off by
pressing the Mode button.
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English
Nothing comes close to a Cobra
®
33
Operating Your Radio
Assistance
Warranty
CustomerAssistance
Advanced OperationAdvanced Operation
Advanced Operation
Channel 16 Button
Channel 16
While at Channel 16 in the
and Channel Down buttons to change channels. In that event, another press of theChannel 16 button will switch your radio to Channel 16 and the sequence will start
over at step 1.
If you press the
you will get a three (3) beep error message and your radio will not change mode.
Channel 16
This function gives you quick access to the calling
Channel 16 — from any operational mode.
To Switch To Channel 16:
Press the Channel 16 button to change to Channel 16.
1.
To exit the
existed before entering this mode, press the Channel 16
button a second time.
Channel Up or Channel Down button when Key Lock mode is On,
Channel 16 mode and return to whatever status
Channel 16 mode, you can also press the Channel Up
Channel Scan
During Channel Scan, the radio will rapidly switch from channel to channel.
Whenever any activity is detected, the radio will stop the scan for ten (10)
seconds to allow you to listen briefly on that channel. It will then continue
to scan unless you switch out of the
Mode Button
To Enter Channel Scan:
1.
2. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down
Scan Icon
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.
Channel Up or Down Buttons
To Exit Channel Scan:
34
English
1.
Press the Mode button until the Scan icon
flashes on the display.
button to begin scanning channels.
From Scan mode, press the Talk button. This will return
the radio to Standby mode on the last scanned channel
Scan mode.
NOTE
The radio’s operation will be suspended indefinitely
until the Channel Up or Channel Down button is
pressed while the Scan icon is flashing.
Operating Your Radio
alk or Channel Up/Down
•
T
During Channel Scan (while receiving an incoming
transmission), You Can Choose From The Following:
Press the Talk button to remain on that channel and end
a.
scanning. This will return the radio to Standby mode.
b. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button
a
b
to resume scanning channels.
If you do not press any buttons within ten (10) seconds,
your radio will automatically resume scanning channels.
During Channel Scan (while not receiving a transmission),
You Can Choose From The Following:
Press the Talk button to communicate on the last
a.
memory location scanned and return to Standby mode.
b. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to
change scan direction.
Keystroke Tones
With Keystroke Tones turned On, your radio will sound beeps each time
you press a button or change a setting.
Mode Button
Keystroke Tones Icon
Channel Up or Down Buttons
To Turn Keystroke Tones On Or Off:
When you turn On your radio for the first time,
keystroke tones will be On.
1. Press the Mode button until the Keystroke Tones
icon flashes on the display. The current On or Off
setting is displayed.
2. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to
turn keystroke tones On or Off.
3. When your desired Keystroke Tone mode setting
is displayed, choose one (1) of the following:
a. Press the Mode button to enter the new
setting and proceed to other functions.
b. Press the Talk button to enter the new
setting and return to Standby mode.
The setting you select will be saved when you turn
your radio off and on again. When keystroke tones
are On, the Keystroke Tone icon will be displayed.
Nothing comes close to a Cobra
®
35
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 compartment and store them in a
separate package. This is especially so if you are using alkaline batteries.
Troubleshooting
ProblemPossible Cause(s)Solution(s)
No display on LCD when
radio is turned On
Will transmit at
one-half (
1
⁄2) watt,
but not at two (2) watts
Will not transmitSelected channel is
No sound from speakerVolume level is too lowRe-adjust volume
No response to
button press
No answer to callsOut of range of
English
36
Batteries are exhausted
Batteries not installed
properly
Replace batteries
Remove batteries and
reinstall according to
polarity markings
Batteries are low
Selected channel is
limited to one (1) watt
Replace batteries
Switch to
another channel
Switch to
limited to receive only
another channel
Button lock is OnPress and hold Hi-Lo
Power/Lock button
Switch to two (2) watts
other station
Signal is blocked
by terrain
or move closer
Move until you have
a “line-of-sight” to
the other station
•
Specifications
General
•
Frequency Range: TX156.025 to 157.425 MHz
Frequency Range: RX156.050 to 163.275 MHz
Number of ChannelsAll U.S., Canadian, and International
Transmit700 mA @ High power 200 mA @ Low
Temperature Range-20˚C to 60˚C
Radio Dimensions W x D x H2.13" x 1.2" x 8.77" (including antenna)
(4.1 mm x 0.5 mm x 22.8 mm )
Radio Weight4 oz. (without batteries)
(0.1 kg)
Receiver
Frequency Range156.050 to 163.275 MHz
Receiver T
ypeDouble Conversion Super-Heterodyne
Sensitivity:
20 dB Quieting0.35 uV
12 dB Sinad0.30 uV
Adjacent Channel Selectivity-50 dB
Intermodulation and Rejection-60 dB
Spurious and Image Rejection-50 dB
AF Output250 mW @ 8 Ohms
Transmitter
Frequency Range: TX156.025 to 157.425 MHz
RF Output Power
1
⁄2 Watt and 2 Watts
Spurious Emissions-60 dB High -55 dB Low
Microphone Type Condenser
External Microphone Impedance1000 Ohms
Frequency Stability+/-10 ppm
FM Hum and Noise-45 dB
Nothing comes close to a Cobra
®
37
Warranty
Warranty
Customer Service
Product Service
Limited 1-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 one (1) year 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
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 ser
vice, but the return charges will be at Cobra
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:
To any product damaged by accident;
1.
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.
®
Factory Service
®
’s expense, if the
•
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 Par
Service (UPS) or Priority Mail to avoid loss in transit to: Cobra
Service, Cobra
®
Electronics Corporation, 6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago,
®
Factory
cel
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 (3)
to four (4) weeks before contacting Cobra
.
warranty, a letter will automatically be sent informing you of the repair
®
for status. If the radio is out of
charge or replacement charge.
If you have any questions, please call 773-889-3087 for assistance.
For Products Purchased Outside The U.S.A.
Please contact your local dealer for warranty information.
English
38
Nothing comes close to a Cobra
®
39
40
English
Order Form And
Optional Accessories
Customer Service
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
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
Order Form
•
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Address (No P.O. Boxes)
CityState/ProvinceZipCountry
Telephone
Credit Card NumberType: ❒ Visa ❒ MasterCard ❒ DiscoverExp. Date