Cobra RX680 User Manual

Trademark Acknowledgment

Trademark Acknowledgment

©2022 Cobra Electronics Corporation. Cobra and the snake design are proprietary
trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA. Other trademarks and trade names
are those of their respective owners.

Cobra Electronics Corporation™ is a trademark of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA.

CS28710

Energy Efciency

Veried

Owner’s Manual

TWO-WAY
RADIO MODEL

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Printed in China

RX680

®

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

®

Part No. 814-RX6801-101

English

Before operating the radio, please read all safety and
operating instructions. Save all instructions in a safe place
for future reference.

Introduction

Making Life Easier and Safer

WARNING: Important Safety Instructions

1. Only accessories included in this package or specified by the manufacturer
should be used with the radio. The 5V micro-USB charging input is compatible
with most high quality micro-USB chargers that fully conform to the USB
standards.

2. Do not use cleaners or solvents to clean the exterior of the radio. Use only a
damp or dry cloth.

3. Do not expose this product to splashing or dripping water.

4. Do not attempt to service the receiver yourself. Removing the cover will void
the warranty. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Cobra may
void the user’s authority granted by the FCC to operate this device and should
not be made.

5. Do not plug the wall adaptor into the power outlet if the outlet is wet.

6. Do not use any portable radio that has a damaged antenna. If a damaged
antenna comes into contact with your skin, a minor burn can result.

WARNING: Important Safety Instructions for Battery

Read All Instructions

• Do not incinerate the battery even if it is severely damaged or is completely worn
out.

• Do not discard battery in a fire. The battery pack can explode in a fire.

• Do not replace battery in any area labeled “Hazardous Atmosphere”. Any sparks
created in a potentially explosive atmosphere can cause an explosion or fire.

• Do not disassemble, crush, puncture, shred, or otherwise attempt to change the
form of your battery.

• Do not dry a wet or damp battery with an appliance or heat source, such as a hair
dryer or microwave oven.

• A small leakage of liquid from the battery cells may occur under extreme usage or
temperature conditions. This does not indicate a failure. Do not open, deform or
mutilate the battery as there may be corrosive materials which can cause damage
to eyes or skin and may be toxic if swallowed.

However, if the outer seal is broken and this leakage gets on your skin:
a. Wash quickly with soap and water.
b. Neutralize with a mild acid such as lemon juice or vinegar.
c. If battery liquid gets into your eyes, flush them with clean water for a minimum of

10 minutes and seek immediate medical attention.

This product uses Lithium Polymer Battery. Do not transport package if damaged, a
fire hazard could exist.

Recycle Battery

Local, state or federal laws may prohibit disposal of batteries in ordinary trash.
Consult your local waste authority for information regarding available recycling
and/or disposal options.

A-1 A-2

Staying in touch with your family and friends is convenient and easy
when using your microTALK

®

radio. Some of the many uses you will

discover include:

Communicating with others while hiking, biking, and working; keeping track of
family and friends at a crowded public event; checking with travel companions
in another car; talking with neighbors; arranging meeting spots with others
while shopping at the mall.

Belt Clip

Secure your microTALK

Carrying your microTALK

®

radio while on the go.

®

radio with you is easy when

using the belt clip or optional wrist strap.

The belt clip easily attaches to your belt, purse, or
backpack.

Customer Assistance

Product Service & Support

In this user’s guide, you should find all the information you need to operate
your microTALK® radio. If you require further assistance after reading this
guide, Cobra offers the following customer assistance services:

For Assistance In The U.S.A.

For any questions about operating or installing this new Cobra product, PLEASE
CONTACT COBRA FIRST… do not return this product to the retail store. The
contact information for Cobra will vary depending on the country in which you
purchased and uses the product. For the latest contact information, please go
to www.cobra.com/support or call 1-800-543-1608.

If your product should require factory service, please go to
www.cobra.com/support and follow the instructions.

©2022 Cobra Electronics Corporation

www.cobra.com

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

Introduction

16

17

18

15

14

13

19

12

20

11

10

9

8

11. Memory/Escape Button

12. USB Charge Jack

13. External Speaker/Microphone
Jack

14. Backlit LCD Display

15. ON/OFF/Volume Knob

16. Emergency Alert Button

17. Wrist Strap Connection

18. Belt Clip

19. Battery Compartment Door

20. Battery Door Screw

Customer Assistance

Operational Cautions

Exposure to high volume sound levels may cause temporary or permanent
damage to your hearing. Although there is no single volume setting that is
appropriate for everyone, you should always use your radio with the volume set
at low level and avoid prolonged exposure to high volume sound levels.

1. Set the volume control in a low position and use as low a volume as
possible.

2. Avoid turning up the volume to block out noisy surroundings. Whenever
possble, use your radio in a quiet environment with low background noise.

3. Limit the amount of time you use headsets or earpiece at high volume
levels.

4. When using the radio without a headset or earpiece, do not place the radio’s
speaker directly against your ear.

5. Observe all signs and instructions that require an electrical device or RF
radio product to be switched off in designated areas, such as gas/refueling
stations, hospitals, blasting areas, potentially explosive atmospheres, or
aircraft.

6. If you experience a skin irritation after using this product, discontinue use
and seek medical attention.

7. If the product or charger: overheats; has a damaged cord or plug; has been
dropped or damaged; has been dropped into water, disconnect any charger
from its power supply, discontinue use of the product.

Electromagnetic Interference

Nearly every electronic device is susceptible to electromagnetic interference
(EMI) if inadequately shielded, designed, or otherwise configured for
electromagnetic compatibility. Turn off your radio in any facility where posted
notices instruct you to do so. These facilities may include hospitals or health
care facilities that may be using equipment that is sensitive to external RF
energy.

• When instructed to do so, turn off your radios when on board an aircraft. Any

use of a RF device must be in accordance with applicable laws, regulations
and airline crew instructions.

• Some radios may interfere with some hearing aids. In the event of such

interference, you may want to consult your hearing aid manufacturer or
physician to discuss alternatives.

• If you use any other personal medical device, consult the manufacturer of

your device to determine if it is adequately shielded from RF energy. Your
doctor or physician may be able to assist you in obtaining this information.

A-3 1

Product Features

1. Antenna

2. Push-to-Talk Button

3. Up/HI/LOW Button

4. Flashlight Button

5. Mode/Scan Button

6. Call/Lock Button

7. Down/Max-Range Button

8. LED/S.O.S Flashlight

9. Speaker/Microphone

10. Weather Button

Features

• 60 Channels

• 10 Channel

Weather Radio

• Weather Alert

• 121 Privacy Codes

(38 CTCSS codes/

83 DCS codes)

• Hands-Free Operation
(VOX)

®

• VibrAlert

• Scan

Channels, privacy codes

• Backlit LCD Display

• LED/S.O.S Flashlight

• Call Alert

Ten selectable tones

• Button Lock

• Speaker/Microphone

• Charge Jack

• Roger Beep

Selectable On/Off

• Battery/Power Saver

• Keystroke Tones

Selectable On/Off

• Battery Level Indicator

• Low Battery

Audible Alert

• Auto Squelch

• Maximum Range

• Belt Clip

• Emergency Call

• IP54 Waterproof and

Paging

Extender

Dustproof

2

Backlit LCD Display

3

2

1

16

15

14

1. Receive/Transmit Icon

2. Battery Level Indicator

3. Hi/Low Power Icon

4. Roger Beep Icon

5. VOX Icon

6. Weather Icon

7. Lock Icon

8. Key Tone Icon

9. Weather Alert Icon

10. DCS/CTCSS Icons

11. DCS/CTCSS Privacy Code
Numbers

12. Power Saver Icon

13. Memory Channel Number

14. Scan/Memory Icon

15. Channel Numbers

16. VibrAlert

®

/ Call Alert Icon

Maximum range may vary and is based on
unobstructed line-of-sight communication
under ideal conditions.

4

13

Caring for Your microTALK® Radio

Your microTALK
properly. Handle the radio gently. Keep the radio away from dust. Never put

5

6

the radio in water or in a damp place. Avoid exposure to extreme
temperatures.

®

radio will give you years of trouble-free service if cared for

7

8

9

10

11

12

Installing Batteries (Battery already pre-installed)

To install or replace batteries:

Remove Belt Clip

1. Remove belt clip by releasing belt clip latch and
sliding clip up.

1

2. Using a flat head screw driver or edge of a coin

2

(a quarter may be used), remove the screw securing
the back battery panel.

Remove Screw

3. Open the battery compartment cover, connect the
connector of the battery to the socket of the radio
inside the battery compartment.

4. Place the battery inside battery compartment and

Battery connector

align the wires as shown.

Ensure the battery connector with cables are tucked

into the hole (keeps the connector to the left) located
at bottom as shown.

Wires alignment

2

(Note: Wires are required to be tucked into the battery

compartment completely and carefully. If any object
interferes the O-ring, its sealing perfomence will be

1

affected.)

O-ring

5. Place the battery compartment cover, screw down the
screws mildly.

(Screw nuts may be damaged if overtightened)

6. Re-attach the belt clip.

USB Charger Jack

To charge batteries in radio:

1. Check to see that the batteries have been

inserted properly.

2. Insert the cable into the charge jack located at the
right side of the radio.

3. Plug the cable into USB-compatible power port.

Only use the supplied rechargeable batteries and desktop charger for
recharging your Cobra microTALK

®

radio.
Please charge new batteries for 8 hours for first time of use.
Cobra recommends your radio is turned off while being charged.

3

Operation

Using Your Radio

®

For charging microTALK

1. Insert radio(s) into desktop charger as shown.

2. Insert the micro-USB cable into jack on back of charger.

3. Plug the cable into USB-compatible power port. For

pluggable equipment, the socket-outlet shall be installed
near the equipment and shall be easily accessible.

If charging light is not on, check position of radio. Radio

should be upright. The charge indicator light will stay on
(Red) as long as the radio is in the charging well, and the light will go off when
the charging is complete.

Note: To charge a single radio, you can bypass the desktop charger and simply
insert the micro-USB’s connector directly into the charge jack located at the
right of the radio.

The radio will display flashing battery icon while charging.
Cobra recommends your radio be turned off while being charged.

Quick Start

1. Turn ON/OFF/Volume Knob clockwise to turn the radio
counter clockwise to turn the radio off.

2. Select a desired channel. (Details please refer P.8)

Both radios must be tuned to the same
channel/privacy code to communicate.

3. Press and hold the Talk button while speaking into the
microphone.

4. When finished talking, release the Talk button and listen for a
response.

Getting Started

Waterproof

This radio is waterproof to IP54 standards. It is dust / splashproof from any
direction. The radio is resistant to water and rain splashes only when the
battery cover, headset accessory and micro-USB ports are sealed. Open the
battery compartment door or headset port/USB charge cover only when the

radio(s) in desktop charger:

on and

Turn ON/OFF Knob clockwise to turn the radio on and counterclockwise to turn
the radio off.

ON/OFF Knob

1. In the ON position, the radio chirps and briefly shows
all feature icons available on the radio.

2. The display screen then shows the current channel,
code and all features that are enabled.

Battery Low

Battery Low

When battery power is low, the final bar in the Battery

Low icon will blink and an audible tone will sound twice

before the radio shuts off. Your batteries should be
recharged. It normally takes about 8 hours to fully charge
batteries.

The radio will display flashing battery icon
while charging if the radio is on.

Auto Battery Save

Battery Save Mode

If there are no transmissions within 10 seconds, the radio

will automatically switch to Battery Save mode and the
Power Saver icon will flash in the display. This will not
affect the radio’s ability to receive incoming
transmissions.

Communicating with Another Person

Talk Button

1. Press and hold the Talk button.

2. With the microphone about two inches (5 cm) from
your mouth, speak in a normal voice.

3. Release the Talk button when you are finished talking

Two Inches

You cannot receive incoming calls while pressing the

from Mouth

and listen for a response.

Talk button.

Both radios must be tuned to the same
channel/privacy code to communicate.

radio is dry. Use of a headset accessory should be in dry environments only.
The micro-USB cable and plug is not waterproof. Do not expose the charger to
rain or snow. Charge the radios only in a dry location. The battery door must be
tightly closed with the screw to maintain the weatherproof seal of the radio.

4 5

Turning your Radio On and Off

Listening for a Response

Release the Talk button to receive incoming

Listening

transmissions. Your microTALK
Standby mode while the Talk or Call buttons are

®

radio is always in

not pressed.

To Adjust Volume

Press and hold MAX-RANGE Button for three seconds to

Volume Knob

turn off the auto squelch, then rotating Volume Knob until
you reach a comfortable listening level.

1. Rotate Volume Knob clockwise to increase the
volume.

2. Rotate Volume Knob counterclockwise to decrease the volume.

3. Press and hold MAX-RANGE Button to enable the auto squelch.

Do not hold the radio close to your ear. If the volume is set to an uncomfortable
level, it could hurt your ear.

Call Button

Press and release the Call button to alert others that you

Call Button

are calling.

The other person will hear a two second call tone.
This tone is used only to establish voice
communications.

See page 12 on how to select between
ten call tone settings.

LED/S.O.S. Flashlight

Press and release the LED/S.O.S Flashlight button below

LED/S.O.S. Flashlight

the Talk button to use the LED flashlight located at the
bottom of the radio.

To activate S.O.S. function, press and hold the LED/S.O.S

Flashlight button to turn on. Press and release to turn off
the flashlight or S.O.S. function.

To turn maximum range extender on (Turn off auto

MAX-RANGE Button

squelch):

– Press and hold the MAX-RANGE button for at least

three seconds until you hear two beeps which indicates
the maximum range extender is on.

To turn maximum range extender off (Turn on auto

squelch):

– Press and hold the MAX-RANGE button.

Lock Function

The Lock function locks the Up, Down, Weather,

Lock Button

Memory and Mode buttons to prevent accidental
operation.

To turn the lock on or off:

– Press and hold the Call/Lock button for three seconds.

Lock Icon

A double beep sound is used to confirm your lock on or

off request. When in Lock mode, the Lock icon will be

displayed.

®

microTALK

Your range will vary depending on terrain and conditions.

Maximum Range

Range

In flat, open country your radio will operate at maximum

range.

Buildings and foliage in the path of the signal can reduce

Reduced Range

Dense foliage and hilly terrain will further reduce the

the range of the radio.

range of the radio.

On Channels 8 through 14, 34 through 37, 53 through 56,

your radio automatically switches to low power, which

Reduced Range

will limit the range the radio can communicate.

Auto Squelch/Maximum Range

Your microTALK
unwanted noise due to terrain, conditions or if you’ve reached your Maximum
Range limit.

You can turn off auto squelch (or turn on maximum range extender), allowing
all signals to be received and extending the maximum range of your radio.

®

radio will automatically shut off weak transmissions and

Remember, you can achieve maximum
range by using maximum range extender.
See page 6 for details.

6 7

Operation

Mode Functions

Scrolling Through the Mode Function

By scrolling through the Mode function, you will be able to select or turn on
preferred features of your microTALK
function, your radio features will be displayed in the same predetermined
order:

Mode Button

Channel Selection

The radio has 60 channels, Channel 1 to 22 are compatible with other brands
of Two-Way radios.

1. Briefly press and release Mode button, the channel

Mode Button

number flashes.

2. Press Up or Down button to select a channel. (You can

hold the Up or Down button for fast advance)

3. When the desired channel is displayed, choose one of

Up/Down Button

the following.

a. Press the Mode button to enter the new setting and

b. Press the Talk or Call button to enter the new setting

Channel Number

c. Do not press any buttons for 6 seconds to enter the

8

®

radio. When scrolling through the Mode

Channel Selection
Set CTCSS Privacy Codes
Set DCS Privacy Codes
Set Vox On/Off
Set Vox Sensitivity
Set Call Tones 1-10
Set VibrAlert On/Off
Set Roger Beep On/Off
Set Key Tones On/Off

proceed to other functions.

and return to Standby mode.

new setting and return to Standby mode.

Both radios must be tuned to the
same channel to communicate.

See page 20 for frequency
allocations charts.

Privacy Codes

Your microTALK
can help to reduce interference from other users on any given channel. CTCSS

®

radio incorporates two advanced coded squelch systems that

(Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System) provides 38 privacy codes and DCS
(Digitally Coded Squelch) provides 83 privacy codes. This provides a total of
121 Privacy Codes. Either system can be used on channels (CH1-CH22), but
both systems cannot be used on the same channel at the same time.

To successfully communicate using a privacy code, both
the sending and receiving radios must be tuned to the same
channel and to the same privacy code system (CTCSS or DCS)
and privacy code number. Each channel will remember the
last privacy code system and number you select.

The privacy code 00 is not a privacy code, but allows all signals
to be heard on a channel that is set to 00 on both the CTCSS
and DCS systems.

Set CTCSS Privacy Codes

To select a CTCSS privacy code:

Mode Button

1. After selecting a channel (only be available on channel
1~22), press the Mode button until the CTCSS icon
appears and the small numbers next to the channel

CTCSS Privacy Code

number flash on the display.

If DCS is turned on at the channel selected,
the display will flash the CTCSS icon and
“OFF.” To switch from DCS to CTCSS, press

Up/Down Button

the Up or Down button while the display is
flashing “OFF.” The display will then show the
small numbers flashing and you will then be
able to proceed to step 2.

2. Press using the Up or Down button to select a privacy code. You can hold

the Up or Down button for fast advance.

3. When your desired CTCSS privacy code is displayed, choose one of the

following:

a. Press the Mode button to enter the new setting and proceed to other

functions.

b. Press the Talk or Call/Lock button to enter the new setting and return to

Standby mode.

c. Do not press any buttons for 6 seconds to enter the new setting and

return to Standby mode.

9

Set DCS Privacy Codes

Mode Button

To select a DCS privacy code:

1. After selecting a channel (only be available on channel
1~22), press the Mode button until the DCS icon
appears and the small numbers flash on the display (00

DCS Privacy Code

through 83).

If CTCSS is turned on at the channel selected,
the display will flash the DCS icon and “OFF.”

Up/Down Button

To switch from CTCSS to DCS, press the Up
or Down button while the display is flashing
“OFF.” The display will then show the small
numbers flashing and you will then be able to
proceed to step 2.

2. Press using the Up or Down button to select a DCS privacy code. You can

hold the Up or Down button for fast advance.

3. When your desired DCS privacy code is displayed, choose one of the

following:

a. Press the Mode button to enter the new setting and proceed to other

functions.

b. Press the Talk or Call/Lock button to enter the new setting and return to

Standby mode.

c. Do not press any buttons for 6 seconds to enter the new setting and

return to Standby mode.

Voice Activated Transmit (VOX)

In VOX mode, your microTALK

®

radio can be used “hands-free,” automatically
transmitting when you speak. You can set the VOX sensitivity level to fit the
volume of your voice and avoid transmissions triggered by background noise.

To turn VOX mode on or off:

Mode Button

1. Press the Mode button until the VOX icon flashes on the

display. The current On or Off setting is displayed.

2. Press the Up or Down button to turn VOX On or Off.

Up/Down Button

3. Choose one of the following:

a. Press the Mode button to enter the new setting and

proceed to other functions.

b. Press the Talk or Call/Lock button to enter the new

VOX Icon

c. Do not press any buttons for 6 seconds to enter the

setting and return to Standby mode.

new setting and return to Standby mode.

To set VOX sensitivity:

Mode Button

1. Press the Mode button until the VOX icon flashes and

the current sensitivity level is displayed.

Up/Down Button

The current VOX sensitivity level is displayed
with letters “L” and a Number 1 through 5,
with Number 5 being the most sensitive level
and Number 1 being the least sensitive level.

2. Press the Up or Down button to change the setting.

VOX Sensitivity Level

3. Choose one of the following:

a. Press the Mode button to enter the new setting and

proceed to other functions.

b. Press the Talk or Call/Lock button to enter the new

setting and return to Standby mode.

c. Do not press any buttons for 6 seconds to enter the

new setting and return to Standby mode.

10 11

Ten Call Tone Settings

You can choose between ten different Call Tone Settings to transmit
a call alert.

To change a call tone setting:

Mode Button

1. Press the Mode button until the letter “C” and the
current call tone number (01 through 10) is displayed.
The current call tone will sound for three seconds.

2. Press the Up or Down button to hear the other call

Up/Down Button

tone settings.

3. Choose one of the following:

a. Press the Mode button to enter the new setting and

proceed to other functions.

Call Tone Setting

b. Press Talk or Call/Lock button to enter the new

setting and return to Standby mode.

c. Do not press any buttons for 6 seconds to enter the

new setting and return to Standby mode.

®

VibrAlert

Your microTALK

and Call Alert

®

radio can alert you to incoming signals by sounding an

audible call tone only or both with vibrating.

To change call settings:

Call Tone On/
Vibrate On

1. Press the Mode button until the Call Setting icon
flashes on the display. The current setting (“01”
vibrate + ring, “02” ring only) is displayed.

2. Press the Up or Down button to change the call

Call Tone On/
Vibrate Off

3. Choose one of the following:

setting.

a. Press the Mode button to enter the new setting and

proceed to other functions.

b. Press Talk or Call/Lock button to enter the new

setting and return to Standby mode.

c. Do not press any buttons for 6 seconds to enter

the new setting and return to Standby mode.

Note: VibraAlert will be suspended during
charging.

Roger Beep Conrmation Tone

Your listener will hear an audible tone when you release the Talk button. This
alerts the other party that you are finished talking and it is OK for them to
speak.

To turn roger beep on or off:

Mode Button

1. Press the Mode button until the Roger Beep icon
flashes. The current on or off setting is displayed.

2. Press the Up or Down button to select Roger Beep on

Up/Down Button

or off.

3. Choose one of the following:

a. Press the Mode button to enter the new setting and

proceed to other functions.

b. Press Talk or Call/Lock button to enter the new

Roger Beep Icon

setting and return to Standby mode.

c. Do not press any buttons for 6 seconds to enter the

new setting and return to Standby mode.

Key Tone On/Off

When Key Tone is On, an audible tone will sound each time a button is
pressed.

To turn key tone on or off:

Mode Button

1. Press the Mode button until Key Tone icon flashes.
Current key tone status on or off will flash.

2. Press the Up or Down button to select key tone

Up/Down Button

on or off.

3. Choose one of the following:

a. Press the Mode button to enter the new setting and

return to Standby mode.

b. Press Talk or Call/Lock button to enter the new

Key Tone Icon

setting and return to Standby mode.

c. Do not press any buttons for 6 seconds to enter the

new setting and return to Standby mode.

12 13

10 Memory Location

®

Your microTALK

radio has 10 Memory Locations for storing your most

frequently used channels and channel/privacy code combinations.

These Memory Locations can be selected individually or can be scanned.

(See page 16 for memory location scan.)

MEM/ESC Button

To program a memory location:

1. Press the MEM/ESC button. Memory icon and the
Memory Location show on the display.

2. Press the Up or Down button to select the memory

Up/Down Button

MEM/ESC Button

location (0 through 9).

If a location has been programmed before,
its associated channel/privacy code will be
shown on the display.

3. Press the MEM/ESC button to enter a new memory
location or edit an already programmed memory
location.

Up/Down Button

4. Press the Up or Down button to select the memory
location.

5. Press the MEM/ESC button. The channel numbers will
flash on the display.

6. Press the Up or Down button to select a channel (1

Memory Channel

through 60).

7. Press the MEM/ESC button. The CTCSS icon and
privacy code numbers will flash on the display (only be

Up/Down Button

8. Choose one of the following:

available on channel 1~22).

a. Press the Up or Down button to select a CTCSS

privacy code (00 through 38) for the channel.

b. Press the MEM/ESC button to switch from CTCSS

to DCS. The DCS icon and privacy code numbers
will flash on the display. The Up or Down button
can then be used to select a DCS privacy code (00
through 83) for the channel (only be available on
channel 1~22).

If “oF” flashes in place of the privacy code numbers, a privacy
code is already set in the opposite (CTCSS or DCS) system. Press
the Up or Down button to cancel the opposite code and select a
privacy code from the active system for the selected channel.

9. Choose one of the following:

a. Press the MEM/ESC button to enter the channel/privacy code in the
selected memory location. Radio then proceeds to next memory
location, which will blink.

b. Press and hold the MEM/ESC button to save the current state of the
Set Memory Function and return to Standby mode.

To recall a stored memory channel location:

MEM/ESC Button

1. Press the MEM/ESC button until the Memory icon and
the memory location number flash on the display.

2. Press the Up or Down button to select a memory

Up/Down Button

location (0 through 9).

If a location has been programmed before,
its associated channel/privacy code will
be shown on the display.

Memory Channel

3. Press and hold the MEM/ESC button to return to
Standby mode on the selected memory location.

A memory location can be reprogrammed
at any time it is displayed. Press the
MEM/ESC button to begin.

14 15

Channel Scan

®

Your microTALK

Scan Button

To scan channels:

radio can automatically scan channels.

1. Press and hold the Scan button until the Scan icon
appears and the radio begins scanning channels.

Scan Channels

The radio will check privacy
codes while scanning channels.

The Scan icon will continue to be displayed when scan is

Up/Down Button

on. Your radio will continue to scan all channels and stop
if an incoming transmission is detected. Your radio will
remain on that channel for 8 seconds after the last
incoming transmission.

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

a. Press and hold the Talk button to communicate on that channel. Your radio

will remain on that channel and return to Memory Standby mode.

b. Press the Up or Down button to resume scanning channels.

c. Press and hold the Scan button to return to Memory Standby.

Set High / Low (H - L) Transmit Power Level

Your radio can transmit selectively at 0.5 or 2 watts of power. Use the low
power setting for short-range communications and use the high power setting
for long-range communications.

To toggle between H - L Power Modes:

HI/LOW Button

1. Press and hold the HI/LOW button until Hi or Low
icon toggles.

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

a. Press and hold the Talk button to communicate on that channel. Your radio

Hi/Low Icon

Channel 8~14, 34~37, 53~56 only operate
on Low power setting.

will remain on that channel and return to Standby mode.

b. Press the Up or Down button to resume scanning channels.

c. Press and hold the Scan button to return to Standby.

Memory Scan

®

Your microTALK

To scan Memory channels:

Scan Button

radio can automatically scan memory channels.

1. Press and hold the Scan button while you are on
Memory Standby mode until the Scan Mem icons
show on the display.

2. Press either Up or Down to begin scanning

Up/Down Button

memory channels.

The Scan Mem will continue to be displayed when scan

is on. Your radio will continue to scan all memory
channels and stop if an incoming transmission is
detected. Your radio will remain on the channel
for 5 seconds after the last incoming transmission.

16 17

NOAA* All Hazards Radio Channels

®

You can use your microTALK

radio to listen to NOAA All Hazards Radio

channels transmitting in your area.

To listen to All Hazards Radio channels:

Weather Button

1. Press the Weather button once until the All Hazards

Radio icon and the currently selected All Hazards

Radio channel are displayed.

Hazards Radio Icon

2. Use the Up or Down button to change All Hazards

Radio channels.

3. The All Hazards Radio icon will continue to be

displayed when All Hazards Radio is on.

Up/Down Button

4. To exit All Hazards Radio, press and hold the

Weather button.

*National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration

Weather (WX) Alert Mode

Turning On the Weather Alert function will allow your radio to automatically
receive NOAA weather signals and warnings from designated weather
broadcast stations. If the radio is turned ON, it will alert to Weather and other
emergency alerts broadcast by NOAA.

Weather Button

Weather Alert Icon

To turn Weather Alert On or Off:

This feature is set to OFF by default.

Make sure the strongest Weather channel is
selected for your area using the channel
selection in the previous menu.

1. Press the Weather button twice until the Weather

Alert icon flashes on the display. The current On or Off
setting is displayed.

2. Press the Up and Down button to turn Weather Alert

Up/Down Button

On or Off.

3. Press and hold the Weather button again to save the

new setting and exit the Weather Alert Mode and
return to Standby mode. The Weather Alert icon show
on the display when it turned on.

Emergency Alert Mode

The Emergency Alert feature can be used to signal members in your group of
your need for urgent help. RX680 series radios will operate in an automatic
“hands-free” emergency control mode for a total of 30 seconds after activating
the Emergency Alert. RX680 series radios in your group will automatically
advance the speaker volume to the maximum setting and sound a warbling
alert tone for 8 seconds. The alert tone is emitted from your own radio speaker
and the receiving radios in your group. After the 8 seconds alert, any spoken
words or incidental sounds at your end will be transmitted to the group for 22
seconds. For the 30 seconds duration of Emergency Alert mode, RX680 series
radio controls and buttons will be locked to maximize reception of the
emergency message.

1. Press and hold the Emergency Alert button for 3

Emergency Alert Button

seconds.

2. Release the button after the LCD backlight flashes and
the alert tone begins to sound. There is no need to
continue to hold the Emergency Alert button or use

LCD backlight ashes

3. After the alert tone ends you may speak into the

PTT for your message to be transmitted.

microphone. Your voice or incidental sounds will be
transmitted. The LCD backlight will continue to flash for
the duration of the 22 seconds period.

4. After 30 seconds your radio speaker will emit a Talk
Confirmation Tone and the LCD backlight will stop
flash. Operation then returns to normal two-way mode.

Note: All Cobra RX680/CXY900/PX650 series radios are fully
compatible with the Emergency Alert feature if they would be tuned
to the same channel and same privacy code. Radio brands other
than Cobra RX680/CXY900/PX650 series can receive the emergency
alert signal, but may not respond with adjusted volume settings,
locked controls, or a warbling alert tone. Users of other radio models
set to the same channel and code will hear a steady tone for 8
seconds followed by the voice transmission for 22 seconds.

Warning: The Emergency Alert feature should only be used in the
event of an actual emergency. Cobra is not responsible if there is
no response to the emergency alert from the receiving group.

18 19

Operation

General Specications

Frequency Allocation and Compatibility

A = Channel No. for 60 Channel Models
B = Frequency in MHz
C = Power Output
D = Code System / Code No.

A B C D

1 462.5625 High ANY
2 462.5875 High ANY
3 462.6125 High ANY
4 462.6375 High ANY
5 462.6625 High ANY
6 462.6875 High ANY
7 462.7125 High ANY
8 467.5625 Low ANY
9 467.5875 Low ANY
10 467.6125 Low ANY
11 467.6375 Low ANY
12 467.6625 Low ANY
13 467.6875 Low ANY
14 467.7125 Low ANY
15 462.5500 High ANY
16 462.5750 High ANY
17 462.6000 High ANY
18 462.6250 High ANY
19 462.6500 High ANY
20 462.6750 High ANY
21 462.7000 High ANY
22 462.7250 High ANY
23 462.5625 High CTCSS / 38
24 462.6125 High CTCSS / 35
25 462.6625 High CTCSS / 32
26 462.7125 High CTCSS / 29
27 462.5500 High CTCSS / 26
28 462.6000 High CTCSS / 23
29 462.6500 High CTCSS / 20
30 462.7000 High CTCSS / 17

A B C D

31 462.5875 High DCS / 1
32 462.6375 High DCS / 4
33 462.6875 High DCS / 7
34 467.5625 Low DCS / 10
35 467.6125 Low DCS / 13
36 467.6625 Low DCS / 16
37 467.7125 Low DCS / 19
38 462.5750 High DCS / 22
39 462.6250 High DCS / 25
40 462.6750 High DCS / 28
41 462.7250 High DCS / 31
42 462.5625 High CTCSS / 14
43 462.6125 High CTCSS / 11
44 462.6625 High CTCSS / 8
45 462.7125 High CTCSS / 5
46 462.5500 High CTCSS / 2
47 462.6000 High CTCSS / 37
48 462.6500 High CTCSS / 34
49 462.7000 High CTCSS / 31
50 462.5875 High DCS / 2
51 462.6375 High DCS / 5
52 462.6875 High DCS / 8
53 467.5625 Low DCS / 11
54 467.6125 Low DCS / 14
55 467.6625 Low DCS / 17
56 467.7125 Low DCS / 20
57 462.5750 High DCS / 23
58 462.6250 High DCS / 26
59 462.6750 High DCS / 29

60. 462.7250 High DCS / 32

Channel No. NWR Frequency

1 163.275MHz

2 162.550MHz

3 162.400MHz

4 162.475MHz

5 162.425MHz

Channel No. NWR Frequency

6 162.450MHz

7 162.500MHz

8 162.525MHz

9 161.650MHz

10 161.775MHz

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

WARNING: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

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.

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications.

However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can
be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Safety Information for microTALK Radios

Your wireless handheld portable transceiver contains a low power transmitter. When the talk
button is pushed, it sends out radio frequency (RF) signals. The device is authorized to operate
at a duty factor not to exceed 50%. In August 1996, the Federal Communications Commissions
(FCC) adopted RF exposure guidelines with safety levels for handheld wireless devices.

Important

FCC RF Exposure Requirements: For body-worn operation, this radio has been tested and
meets the FCC RF exposure guidelines when used with Cobra accessories supplied or
designated for this product. Use of other accessories may not ensure compliance with FCC
RF exposure guidelines. Use only the supplied antenna. Unauthorized antennas,
modifications or attachments could damage the transmitter and may violate FCC regulations.

Normal Position:

Hold the transmitter approximately two (2) inches from your face and speak in a normal
voice, with the antenna pointed up and away.

20 21

The NOAA NWR Frequency Table

FCC Part 15.21 Warning Statement-

NOTE: THE GRANTEE IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS NOT
EXPRESSLY APPROVED BY THE PARTY RESPONSIBLE FOR COMPLIANCE. SUCH
MODIFICATIONS COULD VOID THE USER’S AUTHORITY TO OPERATE THE EQUIPMENT.

IC RSS-GEN

This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is
subject to the following two conditions:

(1) this device may not cause interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may

cause undesired operation of the device.
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d’Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils

radio excempts de licence. L;exploitation est autorisée aux deux condtions suivantes:
(1) l’appariel ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et
(2) l’utilisateur de l’appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le

brouillage est susceptible d’en compromettre le fonctionnement.

Radiation Exposure Statement:

Under ISEDC regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using the antenna that is
affixed to the radio transmitter. Use only the supplied antenna. Unauthorized antennas,
modifications, or attachments could damage the transmitter and may void the user’s authority
to operate the radio.

Any changes of modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance
could void the user’s ability to operate the equipment.

SAR tests are conducted using standard operating positions accepted by the FCC/ISEDC with
the device transmitting at its highest certified power level in all tested frequency bands.
Although the SAR is determined at the highest certified power level, the actual SAR level of
the device while operating can be well below the maximum value.

This device has been tested and certified to not exceed the exposure limit established by the
FCC/ISEDC. Tests for each device are performed in positions and locations (e.g. at the ear
and worn on the body) as required by the FCC/ISEDC.

For body worn operation, this device has been tested and meets the FCC/ISEDC RF exposure
guidelines when used with an accessory designated for this product or when used with an
accessory that contains no metal and that positions the handset a minimum of 10mm from
the body. Non-compliance with the above restrictions may result in a violation of RF
exposure guidelines.

MODEL RX680:

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 95 of the FCC
rules, or violation of type acceptance requirements of part 2 of the rules.

Warranty

Limited One-Year Warranty

Cobra warrants your product against all defects in materials and workmanship for a period
of one (1) year from the date of original purchase.
Cobra, at our sole discretion, will repair or replace your product (with the same or
comparable product) free of charge.
Cobra will not pay shipping charges that you incur for sending your product to us. Products
received COD will be refused.
To make a warranty claim, we will require proof or purchase in the form of an invoice or
receipt. No proof of purchase is required for factory direct purchases.
Warranty Exclusions: Warranty does not apply to your product under any of the following
conditions: 1. The serial number has been removed or modified. 2. Your product has been
subjected to misuse or damage (including water damage, physical abuse, and/or improper
installation). 3. Your product has been modified in any way. 4. Your receipt or
proof-of-purchase is from a non-authorized dealer or internet auction site including E-bay,
U-bid, or other non-authorized resellers.
LIMITATION OF WARRANTY: EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED HEREIN, YOU ARE ACQUIRING
THE PRODUCT “AS IS” AND “WHERE IS”, WITHOUT REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY.
COBRA SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ANY REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY INCLUDING, BUT
NOT LIMITED TO THOSE CONCERNING THE MERCHANTABILITY AND SUITABILITY OF THE
PRODUCT FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. COBRA SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR
CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION,
DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE, MISUSE OR MOUNTING OF THE PRODUCT.
The above limitations or exclusions shall be limited to the extent they violate the laws of any
particular state. Cobra is not responsible for products lost in shipment between the owner
and our service center.
General Warranty Information
Each product we manufacture is covered by our factory warranty. While each product may have
unique components and policy, the general guideline below will apply to most Cobra products.
All Cobra products purchased factory-direct or from our Authorized Resellers will come with
a full one to three (1-3) year warranty from the date of the original retail purchase (see
policy statement above for full warranty details and exclusions).
Standard accessories packaged with each model will have a one-year factory warranty.
Accessory items have a one-year factory warranty.
Shipping to our facility is not covered in our warranty. Return shipping is included within the US.
This warranty is non-transferrable.
For the sake of clarity, ‘repair or replace the Product or its defective part’ does not include
removal or installation work, costs or expenses which include but are not limited to labor
costs or expenses.
Cobra will not be responsible for lost packages.

For Products Purchased Outside the U.S.A.

Please contact your authorized local reseller or agent for warranty information.

22 23