Cobra Electronics MRHH500 User Manual
MEMSAMELOM ED HI
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CALL
MARINE HH500
SUBMERSIBLE
VHF MARINE RADIO
MR HH500 FLT
Printed in China Part No. 480-845-P Version A
Owner’s Manual
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
English
A1
English
Our Thanks to You and
Customer Assistance
Introduction
Our Thanks to You
•
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
two-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 two-way communications, the radio can provide quick access to receive
all the NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) weather
channels and alert you to weather emergencies with a tone on a weather channel
you can select for your area.
Customer Assistance
•
Should you encounter any problems with this product, or not understand
its many features, please refer to this owner’s manual. If you require further
assistance after reading this manual, Cobra Electronics offers the following
customer assistance services:
For Assistance in the U.S.A.
Automated Help Desk English only.
24 hours a day, 7 days a week 773-889-3087 (phone).
Customer Assistance Operators English and Spanish.
8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Central Time Mon. through Fri. (except holidays)
773-889-3087 (phone).
Questions English and Spanish.
Faxes can be received at 773-622-2269 (fax).
Technical Assistance English only.
www.cobra.com (on-line: Frequently Asked Questions).
English and Spanish. productinfo
@cobra.com (e-mail).
For Assistance Outside the U.S.A.
Contact Your Local Dealer
Customer Assistance
©2012 Cobra Electronics Corporation
6500 West Cortland Street
Chicago, Illinois 60707 USA
www.cobra.com
A2
English
Radio Controls
and Indicators
Introduction
Instant
Channel
16/9 Button
Channel
Up Button
ON/OFF/
Volume Control
Speaker/
Microphone
External Cover
Antenna
Backlit
LCD
Screen
Tri-Watch
Button
Battery
Backlight/
Key Lock
Button
Memory/Escape
Button
Push to
Talk
Button
Channel
Down
Button
Speaker
Belt Clip
Battery
Door
Screw
Power
Level/Weather
Button
SCAN Button
Call/Enter
Button
VHF Microphone
Rewind-Say-Again
®
Button
Bluetooth
Microphone
Bluetooth
Button
MRHH500_ENG_CVR_vA_F_v8_MR HH 330 Cover 1/18/13 3:14 PM Page 1
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Introduction
Backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen
•
UIC Active Channel Map Icons
Button Lock Icon
Low/Medium/High
Power Icons
Power Settings
Selectable power settings produce
1, 3 or 6 watts of 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 National Weather
Channels, 24 hours a day.
Submersible to JIS7 Standards
Waterproof to 3.3 ft (1 m) of water
for 30 minutes.
Button/Key Lock
Prevents accidental setting changes
when button lock is set.
Channel Scan/Memory Scan
Use to scan through unlimited
channels or memory locations
to find conversations in progress.
Matrix Display
The display at the bottom of the LCD
screen displays text letting the user know
the current radio mode, function or
operation.
AA Battery Compatible
Good for emergency backup.
Includes AA battery tray (P/N CM 110-024).
Instant Channel 16/9
Provides instant access to priority
Channel 16 and calling Channel 9.
Tri-Watch
Use to monitor three (3) channels
at once — Channel 16 and two (2)
programmable channels.
Floating
This radio will float if dropped overboard.
It has an orange stripe so it's easy to
retrieve.
Must use included battery to float.
120V/12V Charger Included
Use to charge battery pack, at home,
in a car or in a boat.
Product Features
•
Backlit LCD Screen
and Product Features Product Features
Introduction
MicroBlue
TM
Bluetooth®Wireless Technology in a
unique noise canceling design. Widely
compatible for all mobile phones with
Bluetooth
®
wireless technology.
Rewind-Say-Again
®
Replays missed VHF calls.
Locking Desktop Charger
Holds the radio or battery in place while
charging. Vertical or horizontal mounting.
Call Tones (Selectable)
10 selectable call tones
Emergency Weather Alert
Receive NOAA alerts when threatening
weather is nearby.
Speaker/Mic Jack
Allows connecting optional Cobra
Lapel Speaker/Mic and other Cobra
accessories.
Unlimited Memory Channels
Allows programming of unlimited
VHF memory channels.
Signal Strength Meter
Shows the strength of incoming or
outgoing signals.
Easy Redial Operation
Redial of last phone number dialed.
Voice Dialing
Supports standard mobile phone
voice dialing when paired to a
compatible mobile phone.
Noise Canceling Microphone
Reduces effect of environmental
noise when speaking.
Illuminated Buttons
Allows high visibility of all function
buttons.
Roger Beep Tone (Selectable)
Confirmation tone indicates the
completion of the user’s transmission
and signals to others it is clear to talk.
On or Off selectable.
BURP
The Cobra exclusive BURP feature expels
water from the speaker grill if the unit is
dropped in the water or is subjected to
extreme rain and weather.
Product Features (continued)
•
A4
English
Introduction
Notes
Call Tone Icon
Weather Alert Icon
Frequency Band Icon
Roger Beep Icon
Battery Power Icon
Memory Icon
Matrix Display
Simplex
Operation Icon
Weather Icon
Active Channel
Transmit and
Receive Icons
Key Tone
Icon
Signal Level
Icon
Left blank intentionally for your notes
Rewind-Say-Again®Icon
Bluetooth Icon
Bluetooth
VOX Icon
MRHH500_ENG_CVR_vA_F_v8_MR HH 330 Cover 1/18/13 3:14 PM Page 4
Introduction
1
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
Table of Contents
Introduction
Our Thanks to You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1
Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1
Radio Controls and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2
Backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3
Product Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3
Important Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
General Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Recommendations for Marine Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
FCC Licensing Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Installation
Included in this Package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Install/Remove Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Wrist Strap and Belt Clip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Batteries and Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Operating Your Radio
Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Setup Mode Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Bluetooth®Mode Pairing and Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Weather Mode Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Standby/Receive and Transmit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
NOAA Weather Channels and Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Advanced Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Rewind Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Mobile Phone Operation With Bluetooth® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Floating Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
VHF Marine Radio Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Voice Calling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Radiotelephone Calls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
Emergency Messages and Distress Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Warranty and Trademark
Limited 3-Year Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Trademark Acknowledgement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
Customer Service
Product Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Specifications (Typical) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Appendix
VHF Marine Channel Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
Weather Channel Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
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Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
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General Precautions
General Precautions
•
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. KEEP the radio at least
two (2) inches (5 cm) away from yourself and others when transmitting.
DO NOT operate with more than a duty cycle of 5% transmit, 5% receive and
90% standby. 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 place 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.
Introduction
2
English
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 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.
Introduction
500_VHF_Body_v8_MRHH330_ENG_Body 1/18/13 3:16 PM Page 2
Introduction
5
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
FCC Licensing Information
Sea Tow Automated Radio Check (ARC) System
Please try the Sea Tow Automated Radio Check service. Areas where the safety check
service is available include the East Coast, Gulf of Mexico, and Southern California,
as well as in select inland regions. The first and only boating safety program of its
kind, the Sea Tow Automated Radio Check service is fully automated and allows 24
hour a day automatic responses to radio check calls.
Conducting a radio check through the Sea Tow Automated Radio Check service
couldn’t be simpler. All boaters need to do is tune their VHF radios to Channel 24, 25,
26, 27 or 28, depending on the region, key the mic, and ask for a radio check. The
Automated Radio Check system responds to each radio check with an automated
reply, and also replays to the boater’s original radio transmission, allowing him or her
to assess the strength of the signal and confirm the VHF radio is in good working
order.
To find the Sea Tow Automated Radio Check service channel in an area, owners
should visit http://www.seatow.com/arc. The web page links to an instructional video
demonstrating how to use the service step by step.
FCC Licensing Information
•
CobraMarine VHF radios comply with the FCC (Federal Communications
Commission) requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Service.
The radio operates on all currently allocated marine channels and is switchable for
use according to U.S.A., International or Canadian regulations. It features instant
access to emergency Channel 16 and calling Channel 9 as well as NOAA (National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) All Hazards Radio with Alert.
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 an HF single side band radiotelephone, or carrying a marine satellite
terminal must obtain a station license.
FCC license forms and applications for ship and land stations can be downloaded
through the Internet at www.fcc.gov. Forms can also be obtained by calling the FCC
at 888-225-5322.
4
English
General Precautions
Introduction
NOTICE
Your radio is waterproof 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 3 ft (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.
This radio is supplied with a lithium-ion (LiON) rechargeable battery pack.
■
Use only the Cobra charger to recharge lithium-ion (LiON) batteries in the radio.
■
Do not short circuit the battery pack.
■
When replacing the batteries, dispose of the old batteries properly. Batteries
may explode if disposed of in a fire.
Changes or modifications to your radio MAY VOID its compliance with
FCC (Federal Communications Commission) rules and make it illegal to use.
Recommendations for Marine Communication
•
The frequencies your radio uses are set aside to enhance safety afloat and for vessel
navigation and operational messages over a range suitable for nearshore voyages.
If the 6 watt maximum output of your radio is not sufficient for the distances you travel
from the coast, consider a higher powered handheld or installing a Cobra Marine fixed
mount radio with up to 25 watts of output power. (Visit www.cobra.com or your
local dealer for model availability.)
If traveling 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 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 on board where cellular coverage
is available — to allow social conversations and keep the marine frequencies
uncluttered and available for their intended uses.
Introduction
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Included in this Package
Included in this Package
•
You should find all of the following items in the package with
your CobraMarine VHF radio:
6
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FCC Licensing Information
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 at http://www.cps-ecp.ca/.
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.
Introduction
MEMSAME
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MARINE HH500
SUBMERSIBLE
Radio Drop-In Battery Charger
DC Charger
For connection to 12-volt power
sources.
LiON Battery Pack
Operating Instruction Manual Spring-Loaded Belt Clip
MEMSAMELOMEDHI
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MARINE HH500
SUBMERSIBLE
A2
English
Radio Controls
and Indicators
Introduction
Instant
Channel
16/9 Button
Channel
Up Button
ON/OFF/
Volume Control
Speaker/
Microphone
External Cover
Antenna
Backlit
LCD
Screen
Tri-Watch
Button
Battery
Backlight/
Key Lock
Button
Memory/Escape
Button
Push to
Talk
Button
Channel
Down
Button
Speaker
Belt Clip
Battery
Door
Screw
Power
Level/Weather
Button
SCAN Button
Call/Enter
Button
VHF Microphone
Rewind-Say-Again
®
Button
Bluetooth
Microphone
Bluetooth
Button
VHF MARINE RADIO
MR HH500 FLT
Printed in China Part No. 480-845-P Version A
Owner’s Manual
NothingComes Close to a Cobra®English
Antenna
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Installation
AC Charger
For connection to 120-volt power
source.
Wrist Strap
Alkaline Battery Tray
500_VHF_Body_v8_MRHH330_ENG_Body 1/18/13 3:16 PM Page 6
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Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
Wrist Strap and Belt Clip
Install/Remove Antenna
•
1. To install the antenna turn the antenna into the radio
clockwise to tighten. Do not overtighten.
2. To remove the antenna turn the antenna counterclockwise.
Batteries and Charger
•
The radio is shipped with a sealed lithium-ion (LiON) battery
pack (P/N CM 110-026) that is rechargeable.
WARNING
The charger provided for this radio is only to be used
to charge the battery pack provided. Do not charge
any other type of batteries in the charger as fire,
explosion or battery damage will occur. Avoiding
extreme room temperatures will also help prolong
the life of the battery pack for the radio.
When your rechargeable batteries begin to discharge too
quickly, it is time to install a new battery pack. Your radio
will also operate with five (5) high-quality AA alkaline
batteries, using the included alkaline battery tray.
Installing the Battery Pack
1. Position the battery pack over the back of the radio.
2. Engage the battery pack into the radio by sliding to the top
until battery pack is fully seated against radio housing.
3. Tighten the screw using the end of the belt clip to secure
the battery pack to the radio. Do not overtighten. Only use
the end of the belt clip to tighten the screw.
Belt Clip
Insert Belt Clip onto Radio
MEMSAMEATIS VOXLOMEDHI
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MARINE HH500
Secure Radio
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Installation
8
English
Install/Remove Antenna
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Installation
Antenna
Wrist Strap and Belt Clip
•
Belt Clip
Use the spring-loaded belt clip to carry the radio on your
person.
1. Slide the belt clip into the guide channel on the back of the
radio until it is locked in place.
2. To attach the wrist strap, insert it through the hole at the
top of the belt clip, feed it through the looped end and pull
tight to secure to the belt clip.
3. Press open the belt clip, slide it over the belt and release
the clip.
4. To remove the belt clip from the radio press the tab on the
belt clip, which unlocks the clip, and slide it out.
Install Battery Pack
LiON Battery Pack
Tighten Screw
Wrist Strap Attachment
500_VHF_Body_v8_MRHH330_ENG_Body 1/18/13 3:16 PM Page 8
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Installation
11
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
To Remove Battery Pack from Radio
1. Loosen the screw on the back of the battery pack.
2. Lift the bottom of the battery pack slightly to remove
it from the radio housing.
3. Pull battery pack out of the radio housing.
NOTE
The LiON battery pack can also be charged in the
battery charger without being installed in the radio.
Insert the spacer into the battery charger to support
the battery pack during this charging process. Follow
the same procedures in “Initial Charge” to charge the
battery pack.
NOTICE
Lithium-ion (LiON) batteries are toxic. Please dispose
of properly. Some marine suppliers and electronics
retailers accept old battery
packs for recycling and
some municipal waste disposal
agencies have special
provisions for battery disposal.
Alkaline Batteries
The alkaline battery tray acts as a backup or “Emergency”
power source should the battery pack run low on power and
need to be recharged. The radio will transmit at full power
when using five (5) new AA alkaline batteries.
WARNING
Never attempt to recharge alkaline batteries. They are
not made to be recharged, and should be disposed of
in a proper manner.
Batteries and Charger
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Installation
10
English
Batteries and Charger
Initial Charge
The Cobra-provided LiON battery pack may be charged at
home, in a car or in a boat using the appropriate 12V or
120V power cord with the charger.
1. Insert one (1) of the power cords into the back of the
drop-in charger.
2. Insert the other end of the power cord into the appropriate
12V or 120V power source.
3. Remove battery pack spacer from the charger and insert
the entire radio/battery into the charger. The metal charge
contacts on the battery will contact the mating prongs in
the charger to transfer the charging current.
4. Observe that the red light on the front of the charger
glows to indicate that the battery pack is properly seated
and the charger is operating.
5. Allow the batteries to charge for five (5) to six (6) hours
before use. The light will change back to green when the
battery is fully charged.
WARNING
Only the rechargeable LiON battery pack can be
recharged. You MUST use one of the charging devices
provided with this radio. Do not substitute any other
type of charging adapter or charger base for this
radio. Battery damage, fire or explosion may result.
It is equally important to prevent the lithium-ion
(LiON) battery pack from freezing to obtain best
performance from the battery pack.
NOTE
If the drop-in charger is used on a boat, Cobra
recommends you attach it to a horizontal shelf or
vertical bulkhead (using the screw holes provided)
to prevent possible damage due to the boat rolling or
pitching. The charging base has been designed to hold
the battery pack in place during rough sea conditions.
Remove Battery
Alkaline Battery Tray
Battery Pack Charging Only
Power Sources
Initial Battery Charge
500_VHF_Body_v8_MRHH330_ENG_Body 1/18/13 3:16 PM Page 10
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Operating Your Radio
13
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
Getting Started
Getting Started
•
Refer to the foldout at the front 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” various buttons (except “Push to Talk”) on the
radio. “Press” means a momentary press of approximately
one (1) second. “Press and Hold” means to hold the button
down for approximately two (2) seconds.
Whenever you press any button except the Talk button on
your radio, a brief tone (beep) (if key tones are selected On)
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 10
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.
Common Radio Functions
The following procedures define common operating functions of the radio when in
either Marine Standby or Weather (WX) Standby modes.
Power/Volume Control
Power On/Off Control
The On/Off/Volume control is located at the upper right
side of the radio. Turning the On/Off/Volume control
past the detent position will turn the radio On or Off.
Volume Control
Volume is controlled by turning the On/Off/Volume
control.
■ To increase the volume, turn the On/Off/Volume
control clockwise.
■ To decrease the volume, turn the On/Off/Volume
control counterclockwise.
12
English
Batteries and Charger
Maintaining the Battery Charge
As you use your radio, the battery power icon will show the
battery power remaining. When the icon begins to flash, it is
time to recharge or change the batteries.
NOTE
Radio will continue to receive signals when blinking
but cannot transmit.
NOTICE
Use only the drop-in charger provided by Cobra. Do
not use the charger with alkaline batteries; only the
LiON battery pack is rechargeable. Spent alkaline
batteries must be discarded and replaced.
It is a good idea to keep a set of fresh, high-quality AA
alkaline batteries with your radio. Should the rechargeable
battery pack become discharged and no electrical power
source is available, you can insert the included alkaline
battery tray with fresh alkaline batteries and continue to
use your radio.
On/Off/Volume Control
(Counterclockwise)
On/Off/Volume Control
(Clockwise)
MEMSAME
LOMEDHI
ROG
VHF
T
R
A
B
X
CIU
16/9
TW
SCAN
WX
HM L
ESC
MEM
ENT SETUP
CALL
MARINE HH500
SUBMERSIBLE
HH500 Radio
Fully Charged
Partially Charged
Fully Discharged
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Installation
500_VHF_Body_v8_MRHH330_ENG_Body 1/18/13 3:16 PM Page 12
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Operating Your Radio
15
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
Getting Started
Channel Up/Down Buttons
Your radio will Receive (Rx) and Transmit (Tx) VHF signals
on the channel indicated on the LCD display. You can change
the channel at any time using the Channel Up/Down buttons.
To Change Channels:
Press the Channel Up/Down button.
If you are on Channel 88, pressing the Channel Up
button will advance to Channel 01. If you are on
Channel 01, pressing the Channel Down button will
advance to Channel 88.
You can press and hold the Channel Up/Down button
for fast advance. The beep sound will occur only at the
first press of the button and not during fast advance.
If the new channel selected is restricted to low power,
the radio will automatically switch to Low Power mode
and the Low Power icon will appear on the LCD.
If the radio is in the Key Lock mode, the channel will
not change and the three (3) beep error signal will
sound.
SCAN Button
Press and release the SCAN button to scan all channels. The
SCAN icon will display on the LCD display. Scanning begins
at lower channels, and scans to higher channels. Press the
Channel Up/Down button to change the scan direction.
When a signal is received in SCAN mode, the radio will pause
10 seconds before resuming SCAN operation. The scan will
stop on the paused channel and remain there when the Talk
button is pressed.
In Memory mode, press and release the SCAN button to
scan all memory channels. Because the unit is already in the
Memory Channel mode, only the channels in the memory
bank will be displayed.
NOTE
Memory channels need to be saved to effectively
enter the Memory Channel mode and scan all
memory channels.
SCAN
ESC
MEM
SCAN Button
CALL
Channel Up/Down Buttons
SAMATIS VOXLOMEDHI
T
R
A
B
X
CIU
Currently On Channel 88
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Operating Your Radio
14
English
Getting Started
Radio Speaker and Microphone
The internal Radio Speaker and Microphone are located on the
bottom front face of the radio below the lower control buttons.
An optional Speaker/Microphone port is located at the top
of the radio between the antenna and the Power/Volume
control. Unthread the Speaker/Microphone port cover to access
and install an optional Cobra speaker or microphone into this port.
Talk Button
Press and hold the Talk button to transmit messages.
Release the Talk button to stop transmitting.
Backlight/Key Lock Button
To Display the Backlight Momentarily:
Press the Backlight/Key Lock button. The backlight will
remain On for 10 seconds. If the backlight is already
On, another press of the Backlight/Key Lock button
will turn it Off.
Key Lock
To prevent accidental changes to your settings, you can
lock all of the following buttons:
■ Channel Up Button
■ Channel Down Button
■ SCAN Button
■ MEM/ESC Button
■ WX/H-M-L Button
■ 16/9 Button
■ TRI-WATCH Button
■ Call/Enter/Setup Button
To Lock or Unlock the Buttons:
Press and hold the Backlight/Key Lock button for two
(2) seconds. The Key Lock icon will appear or disappear
in the LCD. When Key Lock is On, pressing any of the
listed buttons on the front of the radio will result in a
three (3) beep error message.
Both the Backlight/Key Lock button and the Talk button
are active — you can Receive (Rx) or Transmit (Tx)
a message with Key Lock On, but you cannot change
the channel.
Backlight/Key Lock Button
MEMSAMELOME DHI
ROG
VHF
T
R
A
B
X
CIU
16/9
TW
SCAN
WX
HM L
ESC
MEM
ENT SETUP
CALL
MARINE HH500
SUBMERSIBLE
Key Locked Buttons
VHF
GMRS
Key Lock Icon
Speaker/Mic Port
Talk Button
500_VHF_Body_v8_MRHH330_ENG_Body 1/18/13 3:16 PM Page 14
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
17
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
Setup Mode Programming
Setup Mode Programming
•
The following series of procedures is designed to allow you
to set the programmable features of your radio. Correctly
following these steps results in a minimal amount of radio
setup programming time.
During setup programming, the matrix display will show text
describing the programming action you are now performing.
NOTE
When in the Setup mode, if you stop programming for
longer than 15 seconds,
your entry will be saved and
the radio will go back to the Marine Standby mode.
When you return to Setup mode and continue
programming you will see the last “value” displayed.
While in the Setup mode, you will not receive any
signal reception except when setting squelch.
Programming these features will allow you to customize
certain features of this radio to enhance your “On-Water”
radio use.
Start from Marine Standby mode to begin Marine (VHF)
Setup programming. SAFETY AND DISTRESS will be
displayed on the matrix. Press and hold the Call/Enter/Setup
button for two (2) seconds to enter the programming mode.
The mode programming follows this sequence:
■ Squelch Level Set
■ UIC Channel Map
■ Tone Alert On/Off
■ Call Tone Select
■ Roger Beep On/Off
■ Key Tone On/Off
■ Rewind Enable/Disable
Marine (VHF) Mode Programming
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
16
English
Getting Started
High/Medium/Low (H-M-L) Power Button
Your radio can transmit selectively at 1, 3 or 6 watts of
power. Cobra suggests you maintain the low power setting
for short-range communications. You will conserve battery
life and avoid overpowering nearby stations with a low power
setting signal. Use the high power setting for long-range
communications or when you do not receive a response to
a signal sent at 1 watt.
To Toggle Between H-M-L Power Modes:
Press the H-M-L Power button. The LCD will show
which mode is in effect. Some channels are restricted
for a maximum use of 1 watt. Your radio will
automatically set the power to Low Power mode
when you select those channels.
NOTE
Some channels, frequency bands and countries of use
might not be able to operate in High Power mode.
NOTE
A few channels are Receive only and will not transmit
in these channels.
Call/Enter/Setup Button
The Call/Enter/Setup button has multiple functions. It is
generally used in the following ways:
■ Press and release to transmit your unique Call Tone signal
to another radio.
■ Press and hold to enter any Setup menu.
■ Functions as an Enter button when making a selection
in any Setup menu.
WX
H ML
H-M-L Power Button
ENT SETUP
CALL
Call/Enter/Setup Button
Operating Your Radio
Operating Your Radio
MEMSAME
ATIS VOX
LOMEDHI
VHF
T
R
A
B
GMRS
X
CIU
Marine Standby Mode
500_VHF_Body_v8_MRHH330_ENG_Body 1/18/13 3:16 PM Page 16
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Operating Your Radio
19
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
Setup Mode Programming
USA/International/Canada Channel Maps
Three (3) sets of VHF Channel Maps have been established
for marine use in the USA, 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 table in
the Appendix on page 64). Your radio has all three (3) maps
built into it and will operate correctly in whichever area
you choose.
To Set Channel Map Operating Area:
1. The Channel Map mode is the second mode on
the Marine (VHF) Setup programming.
2. U, I and C will display, with the current setting
(the U icon is the default) flashing.
3. Press Channel Up/Down button to select the
U, I or C icon.
4. Press Call/Enter/Setup button to save this entry
and move to the next Setup mode programming.
NOTE
One or two of the channel maps might have been
disabled for sales of this radio in some countries.
Call Tone Alert
If Call Tone Alert is set to On, the radio will alert you to a call
from a compatible Cobra radio with a Call Alert.
To Set Call Tone On or Off:
1. Display will show Call Tone icon flashing and the
matrix will display CALL TONE ON or OFF.
2. Press Channel Up/Down button to select ON or OFF.
3. Press the Call/Enter/Setup button to save this entry
and move to the next Setup mode programming. The
Call Tone icon will show in the Standby mode when
set to ON.
MEMSAMEATIS VOXLOMEDHI
VHF
T
R
A
B
GMRS
X
CIU
Call Tone Alert
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Operating Your Radio
18
English
Setup Mode Programming
A
CIU
Active Channel Map Icon
CALL
Channel Up/Down Buttons
Squelch Control
Squelch Control filters weak signals and radio frequency (RF)
noise so that you will clearly hear the signals you want.
The Squelch Control on this radio is set through the following
keypad operation.
To Set Squelch Control:
1. With the power On, push and hold Call/Enter/Setup
button to access the Setup menu.
2. Squelch control will be the first menu item to appear.
Press the Channel Up and Channel Down buttons to
set level. The signal level bar graph shows squelch
level while you are in Setup mode on the squelch
adjust function.
3. To adjust your squelch, press the Channel Down
button until you hear a hissing sound, then press
and release the Channel Up button until the hissing
stops. This will establish a “Baseline” squelch.
4. By pressing the Channel Up button further, you will
filter weak and medium strength signals. By pressing
Channel Down button, you will receive weaker signals.
5. Press the Call/Enter/Setup button to save this entry
and move to the next Setup mode programming.
NOTE
If the Squelch is set so that you can hear a continuous
hissing sound, the Memory Scan and Tri-Watch
functions will be blocked.
MEMSAMEATIS VOXLOMEDHI
VHF
T
R
A
B
GMRS
X
CIU
Squelch Control
CALL
Channel Up/Down Buttons
500_VHF_Body_v8_MRHH330_ENG_Body 1/18/13 3:16 PM Page 18
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Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
Setup Mode Programming
MEMSAMEATIS VOXLOMEDHI
VHF
T
R
A
B
GMRS
X
CIU
Roger Beep Mode
MEMSAMEATIS VOXLOMEDHI
VHF
T
R
A
B
GMRS
X
CIU
Call Tone Select
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Operating Your Radio
20
English
Setup Mode Programming
Call Tone Select
This setting will also allow you to transmit a unique
Call Tone alert to identify your radio when you transmit
messages. You can select from one of 10 different
Call Tone signals.
To Set Call Tone:
1. From the previous press of the Call/Enter/Setup
button, the matrix will display CALL TONE SELECT
and the display will flash the current Call Tone
number (01 through 10).
2. Press the Channel Up/Down button to select a
different Call Tone. An example of each call tone will
sound for 1.5 seconds.
3. Press Call/Enter/Setup button to save this entry and
move to the next Setup mode programming.
NOTE
Call Tones are not usually used for Marine VHF
communications. We allow you to turn it On for your
unique communication needs. It is only compatible
with other Cobra VHF radios.
Roger Beep Mode
In Roger Beep mode, your listener will hear an audible tone
when you release the Talk button. This alerts your listener
that you are finished talking and it is OK for them to speak.
To Set Roger Beep On or Off:
1. Display will show ROG icon flashing and the matrix
will display ROGER BEEP ON or OFF.
2. Press Channel Up/Down button to select ON or OFF.
ROG will be displayed when On.
3. Press Call/Enter/Setup button to save this entry and
move to the next Setup mode programming.
Key Tone Mode
In Key Tone mode, an audible tone will sound each time a
button is pressed or you change a setting.
To Set Key Tone On or Off:
1. Display will show Key Tone icon flashing and matrix
will display KEY TONE ON or OFF.
2. Press Channel Up/Down button to select ON or OFF.
3. Press Call/Enter/Setup button to save entry.
MEMSAMEATIS VOXLOMEDHI
VHF
T
R
A
B
GMRS
X
CIU
Key Tone Mode
Rewind Enable/Disable
If Rewind is enabled, the last 20 seconds of incoming
audio is recorded and you can play back missed VHF calls
by pressing the Rewind button.
1. Display will show the Rewind icon flashing and the
matrix will display REWIND ENABLE or DISABLE.
2. Press Channel Up/Down button to select ENABLE
or DISABLE.
3. Press Call/Enter/Setup button to save entry.
16/9
ENT SETUP
CALL
Rewind Button
MEMSAMEATIS VOX
LOMEDHI
VHF
T
R
A
B
GMRS
X
CIU
Rewind Enable
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Operating Your Radio
500_VHF_Body_v8_MRHH330_ENG_Body 1/18/13 3:16 PM Page 20
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