Cobra Electronics MR F80B-D User Manual

Introduction

Our Thanks to you and Customer Assistance

VHF MARINE RADIO

Owner’s Manual

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 all NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration), including 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

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, seven (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 (online: Frequently Asked Questions). English and Spanish. productinfo

@cobra.com (e-mail).

MR F80B-D

Printed in China Part No. 480-694-P Version A

NothingComes Close to a Cobra

For Assistance Outside the U.S.A.

Contact Your Local Dealer

English

6500 West Cortland Street

Chicago, Illinois 60707 USA

www.cobra.com

Introduction

Transceiver Controls, Indicators and Connections

Introduction

Product Features

•

Speaker

DSC Distress Button (Behind Red Spring Loaded Cover)

Antenna

Socket

English

Call/Setup Button

NMEA and

Auxiliary I/O

Connector

Public Address/ Escape

Backlit LCD Screen

Weather/Enter Button

Local Mode Button

Channel Preset (Function) Buttons

Rewind Button

Tri-Watch Button

Memory Scan/ Memory Clear Button

Squelch Knob

Power Connection

Power Volume Knob

HI/LO Power Button

Channel Knob

Instant Channel 16/9 Button

Dual Power HI/LO

Selectable to 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 with SAME

Can alert you with an audible tone and visual alarm if threatening weather is nearby. The SAME alerts provide you with additional alerts for specific local areas.

Instant Channel 16/9

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

Digital Selective Calling (DSC)

Allows sending a distress message at the touch of a button as well as specific station-to-station calls.

Cobra Exclusive Rewind-Say-Again™ Digital Voice Recorder

A dedicated button allows user to replay up to the last 20 seconds of audio. Press the dedicated rewind button and Cobra VHF will replay the last 20 seconds of the audio from your VHF.

PA (Public Address)

Allows operator instant access to public address system by pressing button.

English

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.

Controls on the Microphone

Handy control buttons on the microphone/speaker let you operate onehanded at a distance from the radio.

Illuminated Buttons

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

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).

Mounting Kits (Included)

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

Microphone/Speaker and

Introduction

Product Features

Waterproof

Submersible to 3.28 ft (1 m) of water for 30 minutes — meets JIS7 Standards.

Local Mode

A dedicated button that allows user to lower unnecessary noise interference from random RF noise in highly populated areas.

Distress Call Button

Allows sending a distress message at the touch of a button as well as specific station-to-station calls.

Product Features (continued)

NMEA Port for GPS, Chartplotter and DSC Interfacing

The NMEA “IN” input in this radio will receive GPS position information from all GPS devices (e.g., Chartplotters, GPS sensors) sending out their position information using the standard NMEA 0183 protocol. This position information from the GPS is then sent by the MR F80 when sending out DSC emergency transmissions. This unit also has an NMEA “OUT” output. This allows the radio to send out position information received from other VHF radio units. This enables position polling and other advanced integration.

Backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal

Introduction

•

Backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen

SAME Alert Icons

Radio Status

and Data

Display Fields

Display) Screen

Weather Alert Icon

LOCAL ON Radio Sensitivity Icon

Call Log Icon

•

Active Channel Number

Extended Channel Number Alpha Designators

Microphone/Speaker with Auxiliary Controls

Function (F1/F2) Button

Push to

Talk

(PTT)

Button

Down

Button

English

Call/Setup Enter Button

Microphone

Up Button

Instant Channel 16/9 Button

Up/Down Buttons

Can be used instead of those on the transceiver.

Instant Channel 16/9 Button

Can be used instead of the one on the transceiver.

Function Button

Allows the user to “toggle” between selected working channel and favorite “PreSet” channels to access your most frequently used channels directly from the microphone.

•

English

Introduction

Table Of Contents

Introduction

Our Thanks to You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1

Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1

Transceiver Controls, Indicators and Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2

Product Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3

Microphone/Speaker with Auxiliary Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A4

Backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A5

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 Distress Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Marine Distress Procedure – DSC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Installation and Start-Up

Included in this Package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Mounting and Powering the Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Antenna Requirements and Attachment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

External Devices and Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Operating Your Radio

Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Setup Mode Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Voice Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

NOAA All Hazards/Weather Radio and Alert, w/SAME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Advanced Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Digital Select Calling (DSC) SetUp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Digital Select Calling (DSC) Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Maintenance and Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Appendix

VHF Marine Channel Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

NOAA Weather Channels and Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

World City Time Zones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Warranty and Trademark

Limited 3-Year Warranty & Trademark Acknowledgement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Customer Service

Product Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Flush Mount Template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Introduction

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 the radio. 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.” The radio must only be used in the course of employment by individuals aware of both the hazards and the ways to minimize those hazards. This radio is NOT intended for use in an uncontrolled environment by the “General Population.”

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

■

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

■

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

■

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

•

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

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 and KEEP yourself and all others on your vessel the required distance away from the antenna while transmitting. See page 31 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. DO NOT operate the radio in an explosive atmosphere, near blasting sites,

or in any area where signs are posted prohibiting radio transmissions. 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/speaker 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 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.

English

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Introduction

Recommendations for Marine Communication FCC Licensing Information

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

NOTICE AVOID using or storing the radio at temperatures below -4°F (-20°C) or

above 140°F (60°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 3 ft (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/speaker. 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 Communication 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 near-shore voyages. If the 25 watt maximum output of your radio is not sufficient for the distances you travel from the coast, consider installing a more powerful radio 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 do not know where you are, the Coast Guard will have difficulty finding you if you are using a cellular telephone.

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

English

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 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/formpage.html. 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., 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.

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

VHF Marine Radio

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

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

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.

English

Procedures Voice Calling

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

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, vessel name and the state registration number, at both the beginning and at the end of the message.

Prohibited Communications

You MUST NOT transmit:

■

False distress or emergency messages.

■

•

Messages containing obscene, indecent or profane language.

■

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.

Voice Calling

To Call Another Vessel or Shore Installation (e.g. 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 vessel you wish to call. (Hold the microphone/speaker 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 14 through 15.

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

•

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Digital Selective Calling (DSC)

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI)

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 (DSC) 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)

•

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

■

Sea Tow International: 1-631-765-3660 – www.seatow.com

■

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

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 51 for instructions on how to enter it.

In Canada, Contact:

■

Industry Canada Spectrum Management Office (only available on the Internet): http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/epic/internet/insmt-gst.nsf/vwGeneratedInterE/sf01742e.html

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.

English

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Radiotelephone Calls

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Emergency Messages and Distress Procedure

Radiotelephone Calls

Boaters may make and receive radiotelephone calls to and from any number on the telephone network by using the services of public coast stations. Calls can be made — for a fee — between your radio and telephones on land, sea and in the air. See pages 14 through 23 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.

NOTICE

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, 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 marina to bring the fuel you need or to 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.

PAN

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

English

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-ee-tay.)

When using an international emergency signal, the appropriate signal is to be spoken three (3) times prior to the message.

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Emergency Messages

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

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.

Marine Distress Procedure

Speak slowly — clearly — calmly.

1. Make sure your radio is On.

2. Select 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],” repeated three (3) times.

5. Say:

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

6. Tell where you are:

(what navigational aids or landmarks are nearby).

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 step 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.

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and Distress Procedure

Emergency Messages

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

For Example

“Mayday — Mayday — Mayday” “This is Corsair — Corsair — Corsair” [or “IL 1234 AB”], repeated three (3) times. “Mayday Corsair (or IL 1234 AB)” “Navy Pier bears 220 degrees magnetic — distance 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 IL 1234 AB) is 26 ft sloop with blue hull and tan deck house” “I will be listening on Channel 16” “This is Corsair (or IL 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.

and Distress Procedure

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Installation and Start-Up

16/9

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 70 distress and safety watch system. The range of the signal may vary out under normal conditions should be approximately 20 nautical miles.

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

Microphone

Warning Sticker

Mic Mounting Kit

Power/Interface Cables

NOTE

Cobra Accessory Harness CM 140-001 is an optional

used to interface the MR F80 radio with the Cobra MC 600C Series chartplotters.

Transceiver Surface Mount Kit

Operating Instruction Manual

wire harness that is

Mounting and

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:

■

The leads to the battery and the antenna should be as short as possible.

■

The antenna must be mounted at least 3 ft (0,9 m) from the transceiver.

■

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

■

There 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 horizontal surface.

Surface Mounting Kit

Tilt Lock Knobs

Powering the Radio

•

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 with the mounting bracket screws and washers.

3. Attach the transceiver to the mounting

bracket with the Tilt Lock knobs.

4. Tilt the transceiver to a convenient

angle and tighten the Tilt Lock knobs.

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Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Installation and Start-Up

WARNING

See final pages

for template.

Mounting and Powering the Radio

Installation and Start-Up

Mounting and Powering the Radio

Microphone Bracket Mounting Kit

Use Supplied Template

Insert Transceiver

Attach Mounting Brackets

Adjusting Screws

Microphone Bracket Mounting Kit

To Install The Microphone Bracket Mounting Kit:

Install the microphone bracket mounting kit on a vertical surface near the transceiver using the supplied stainless steel screws.

Flush Mount

A Flush Mount 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 (VHF Radio MRF80) to mark

and cut an opening in the flat surface. See page 80 for template.

NOTICE

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

2. Insert the transceiver into the opening.

3. Attach the 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. Do not over-tighten.

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 Cable

Electrical Power Connection

Electrical power is supplied to the transceiver by two (2) bullet-type connectors coming from a 13.8-volt DC voltage source (12-volt nominal). The

Red Cable

Positive (+)

Black Cable

Negative (-)

positive lead must be attached to a fused connector.

To Connect to a Power Source:

1. Attach the black (-) wire to a 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.

NOTE

Cobra Accessory Harness CM 140-001 is an optional

wire harness that is used to interface the MR F80 radio with the Cobra MC 600C Series chartplotters.

NOTICES

A reverse polarity connection will damage the radio. When replacing the fuse in your transceiver, use only the size and type

originally provided.

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Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Installation and Start-Up

Mounting and Powering the Radio

Installation and Start-Up

Antenna Requirements and Attachment

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)

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 ft (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 ft (3 m) away from the antenna when the radio is transmitting.

Installation Requirements

■

An omnidirectional antenna with a gain not greater than 9 dBi must be mounted at least 16.4 ft (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 ft (3 m) plus the 6.6 ft (2 m) height of an adult.

■

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 ft (3 m) MPE radius during radio transmissions. The antenna must be mounted so that its lowest point is at least 3.3 ft (1 m) vertically above the heads of all persons during radio transmissions.

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Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

Installation and Start-Up

Antenna Requirements and Attachment

Installation and Start-Up

External Devices and Connections

WARNING

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 ft (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 ENSURE 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 coaxial cable socket at the back of the transceiver.

NOTICE

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

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.

NMEA Communication Cable

Your CobraMarine Radio is set up with an NMEA communication port that allows the radio to communicate with other electronic equipment such as a GPS Chartplotter, Depth Sounder, Auto Pilot, DSC VHF Radio, Radar and Personal Computer with the ability to display information. This capability allows for the operator to do Position Polling and Position Requests directly from the radio. The NMEA input and output leads are directed through the NMEA communication port.

NMEA Cable

External Speaker (Not Included)

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

To Install an External Speaker:

1. Connect the speaker positive (+) wire to the orange wire coming out of the

standard speaker/PA wire harness.

2. Connect the speaker negative (-) wire to the black/white wire coming out of the

standard speaker/PA wire harness.

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Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra

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