Ray54
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Ray54
Marine VHF
Radio
Owner’s Handbook
Document number: 81231-2
Date: July 2004
iii
About this Handbook
Introduction
This handbook describes the Ray54 fixed VHF marine radio. The Ray54
provides two-way communications on all US, Canadian and International
marine channels and weather watch on ten weather channels. The Ray54
includes equipment for Class “D” Digital Selective Calling (DSC).
Conventions Used
Throughout this handbook, the dedicated (labelled) keys are shown in bold
capitals (for example: SCAN/SAVE). The LCD indicators and functions are
shown in normal capitals (for example: TX).
➤ Operating procedures, which may consist of a single key-press or a
sequence of numbered steps, are indicated by an arrow icon shown in the
margin.
Technical Accuracy
To the best of our knowledge, the information in this handbook was correct as
it went to press. However, our policy of continuous product improvement
and updating may change specifications without prior notice. As a result,
unavoidable differences between the product and handbook may occur from
time to time. Raymarine cannot accept liability for any inaccuracies or
omissions it may contain.
For the latest product information visit our website:
Warranty
To register your new Raymarine product, please take a few minutes to fill out
the warranty registration card found at the end of this handbook. It is very
important that you complete the owner information and return the card to the
factory in order to receive full warranty benefits.
Raymarine is a registered trademark of Raymarine Limited.
© Raymarine Limited 2004
www.raymarine.com
iv Ray54 VHF Radio
Important Information
Raymarine radios comply with the Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) and Industry Canada requirements that regulate marine VHF radio
usage for the US and Canada, respectively. Marine VHF radio users in the US
must comply with all applicable FCC rules and regulations, some of which
are described in this handbook.
This information was current at the time this handbook was printed. Up-todate information, including licensing requirements, can be obtained on the
FCC website at:
www.fcc.gov/wtb/marine
Official FCC forms can be obtained on the FCC website at:
www.fcc.gov/formpage.html
FCC Notice
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.
Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved in
writing by Raymarine, Incorporated could violate compliance with FCC
rules and void the operator’s authority to operate the equipment.
Station License
An FCC Ship Radio Station License and Call Sign are not required for most
recreational vessels travelling in US waters. However, you must obtain a
license if your vessel travels to foreign ports.
Ships that use MF/HF single side-band radio, satellite communications, or
telegraphy must be licensed by the FCC. You can obtain a Station License by
filing FCC Form 605, which is available from the FCC website listed above.
Operator License
An Operator License is not required to operate a VHF Marine Radio within
US territorial waters. However, a license is required to operate the radio if
you dock in a foreign port (including Canada and Mexico) or leave a foreign
port to dock in a U.S. port. You can request a Restricted Radiotelephone
Operator Permit from the FCC by filing Form 753.
v
INDUSTRY CANADA
You do not need a license to operate this radio within sovereign waters of
Canada or the US. You will need a license to operate this radio outside of
Canada or the US. To obtain Industry Canada licensing information, contact
the nearest field or regional office, or write:
Industry Canada
Radio Regulatory Branch
Attention: DOSP
300 Slater Street
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada, KIA OC8
The following information about the radio is required to complete the license
application:
Industry Canada Certification Number: 4069A-RAY54 D
FCC Type Number: PJ5RAY54
FCC Type Accepted: Parts 15 and 80
Output Power: 1 watt (low) & 25 watts (high)
Modulation: FM (16K0G3E), DSC (16K0G2B)
Frequency Range: 156.025–157.425
SAFETY NOTICE
Your Raymarine VHF radio generates and radiates radio frequency (RF)
electromagnetic energy (EME). This equipment must be installed and
operated in accordance with the instructions contained in this handbook.
Failure to do so can result in personal injury and/or product malfunction.
CAUTION: Navigation Aid
Although we have designed this product to be accurate and reliable,
many factors can affect its performance including equipment failure or
defects, environmental conditions, and improper handling or use. As a
result, it should only be used as an aid to navigation and should never
replace common sense and navigational judgement. Always maintain a
permanent watch so you can respond to situations as they develop.
vi Ray54 VHF Radio
Antenna Mounting and EME Exposure
This system has a Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) Radius of 1.5
meters (per OET Bulletin 65), assuming the maximum power of the radio
and antennas with a maximum gain of 3dBi. Accounting for the height of an
average adult (2 meters) the minimum height of the antenna above the deck
to meet RF exposure compliance requirements is 3.5 meters.
For watercraft with suitable structures, an omnidirectional antenna with gain
not greater than 3 dBi must be mounted a minimum of 3.5 meters vertically
above the main deck and all persons on board. For watercraft without suitable
structures, the antenna must be mounted so as to maintain a minimum of 1.5
meters vertically between the antenna (measured from the lowest point of the
antenna), to the heads of all persons.
Do not transmit when anyone is within the MPE radius of the antenna, unless
shielded from the antenna field by a grounded metallic barrier.
WARNING: Maximum Permissible Exposure
Failure to observe these guidelines may expose those within the
maximum permissible exposure (MPE) radius to RF radiation
absorption that exceeds the FCC MPE limit. It is the radio operator’s
responsibility to ensure that no one comes within this radius.
For optimal radio performance and minimal human exposure to radio
frequency electromagnetic energy, make sure the antenna is:
• connected to the radio before transmitting
• properly mounted
• located where it will be away from people
• located at least 1.5 meters (5 feet) from the radio’s main unit
Safe Compass Distance
Safe Compass Distance is 1 meter for a common mechanical compass; other
compass types may require greater distances. To be sure, you should locate
the radio as far as possible from the compass. Test your compass to verify
proper operation while the radio is also operating.
EMC Conformance
All Raymarine equipment and accessories are designed to the best industry
standards for use in the recreational marine environment. Their design and
manufacture conform to the appropriate Electromagnetic Compatibility
(EMC) standards but correct installation and use is required to ensure that
performance is not compromised.
vii
Contents
About this Handbook ........................................................................................... iii
Important Information ........................................................................................iv
Antenna Mounting and EME Exposure ...................................................vi
Safe Compass Distance ............................................................................ vi
EMC Conformance ..................................................................................vi
Chapter 1: Introduction .......................................................................................1
1.1 Ray54 Fixed Station VHF Radio ...................................................... 1
1.2 Features ............................................................................................ 1
Chapter 2: Installation .........................................................................................3
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection ................................................................ 3
Equipment Supplied ..................................................................... 3
2.2 Planning the Installation ................................................................... 4
Typical Mounting Methods .......................................................... 4
Flush Mounting ............................................................................. 4
2.3 Power Connections .......................................................................... 6
2.4 External Speaker Connections ......................................................... 7
2.5 Grounding ........................................................................................ 7
2.6 NMEA Data ..................................................................................... 7
2.7 Antenna Connections ....................................................................... 8
Antenna Mounting Suggestions ................................................... 8
Antenna Mounting and EME Exposure ........................................ 8
Chapter 3: Getting Started ..................................................................................9
3.1 Keypad and Rotary Knobs ............................................................... 9
Microphone Keys ....................................................................... 10
Main Unit Rotary Keys ............................................................... 10
Main Unit Push Keys .................................................................. 10
Microphone ................................................................................ 11
1. PTT .................................................................................... 11
2. UP/DOWN ........................................................................ 11
3. 16/9 ................................................................................... 11
4. HILO ................................................................................. 11
Main Unit .................................................................................... 11
5. CH ..................................................................................... 11
6. PWR/VOL ........................................................................ 11
7. SQ ..................................................................................... 11
8. DW/TRI ............................................................................ 11
9. CALL/MENU ................................................................... 12
10. HILO/USER ................................................................... 13
11. SCAN / SAVE .................................................................14
viii Ray54 VHF Radio
12. 16/9 ..................................................................................14
13. CLEAR/WX ................................................................... 14
14. DISTRESS ...................................................................... 14
3.2 LCD Display .................................................................................. 14
1. (HI/LO) TX Power .................................................................. 15
2. (TX) Transmitting ................................................................... 15
3. (RX) Receiving .......................................................................15
4. (LOCAL) Local/Distant Mode ............................................... 15
5. DSC Message ......................................................................... 15
6. ATIS Active ............................................................................ 15
7. NO GPS ................................................................................... 15
8. Battery Low ............................................................................ 15
9. (USER) Favorite Channel Mode ............................................. 15
10. (SAVED) Memory Mode ...................................................... 15
11. (WX) Weather Channel ......................................................... 16
12. (ALERT) Weather Alert ........................................................ 16
13. (U I C) Channel Set ...............................................................16
14. (A) Simplex Channel ............................................................ 16
15. (B) Receive-only Channel .................................................... 16
16. Channel Number ................................................................... 16
17. Dot Matrix Display ............................................................... 16
Chapter 4: General Operations .........................................................................17
4.1 Turning the Power ON and OFF .....................................................17
4.2 Setting the Volume ......................................................................... 17
4.3 Setting the Squelch ......................................................................... 17
4.4 Setting the Power Output ................................................................ 17
Overriding the Low Output Power Restriction ........................... 18
4.5 Setting the Channel ........................................................................ 19
On the microphone... ............................................................. 19
On the main unit... ................................................................. 19
4.6 Selecting a Weather Channel .......................................................... 19
Weather Alert Operation ....................................................... 20
4.7 Selecting the Priority Channel ........................................................ 20
4.8 Selecting the Secondary Priority Channel ...................................... 21
Reprograming the Secondary Priority Channel .......................... 22
4.9 Transmitting ...................................................................................23
4.10 Using the Scan Modes ....................................................................23
All Scan ....................................................................................... 24
Saved (Memory) Scan ................................................................ 24
Priority All Scan ......................................................................... 25
Priority Saved Scan ..................................................................... 26
ix
4.11 Adding Channels to Memory .........................................................26
4.12 Using the Monitor Modes ............................................................... 28
Dual Watch ................................................................................. 28
Tri Watch ..................................................................................... 29
4.13 USER Channel Mode ..................................................................... 30
4.14 DSC Call Operation ....................................................................... 30
4.15 Menu Mode Operation ................................................................... 30
Chapter 5: Digital Selective Calling (DSC) .......................................................31
5.1 DSC Call Function ......................................................................... 32
5.2 Individual Calls ..............................................................................34
Making DSC Calls to Coast Stations ..........................................34
Transmitting an Individual Call .................................................. 34
Receiving Individual Calls ......................................................... 37
5.3 Group Calls .................................................................................... 38
Transmitting a Group Call .......................................................... 38
Receiving Group Calls ................................................................ 40
5.4 All Ships Calls ................................................................................ 42
Transmitting an All Ships Call .................................................... 42
Receiving an All Ships Call ........................................................43
5.5 Distress Calls .................................................................................. 45
Sending a Distress Call .............................................................. 45
Undesignated (Quick) Distress Call ..................................... 46
Designated Distress Call ....................................................... 46
Cancelling a Distress Call Made in Error .................................... 48
Receiving a Distress Call ............................................................ 48
Receiving a Distress ACK Sent from a Coast Station ................. 49
Receiving a Distress Relay Sent by Another Station ..................49
5.6 Position Request ............................................................................. 50
Specifying the Target Vessel .......................................................50
Retrieving the Last Received Position Data ............................... 52
Receiving a Position Request From Another Station ................. 53
5.7 Call Log .......................................................................................... 53
Making a Call from a Call Log Entry .......................................... 54
Saving an MMSI ID Number from a Call Log Entry .................. 55
5.8 DSC Distress Log ........................................................................... 56
Chapter 6: Menu Settings ..................................................................................57
6.1 Menu Function ............................................................................... 57
6.2 DSC Phonebook ............................................................................. 59
Adding an Entry .......................................................................... 59
Editing an Existing Entry ............................................................ 61
Deleting an Existing Entry .......................................................... 62
x Ray54 VHF Radio
6.3 Local / Distant ................................................................................ 63
6.4 Backlight Adjustment .................................................................... 63
6.5 Contrast Adjustment .......................................................................63
6.6 GPS/Time Setup ............................................................................. 64
When GPS Information Not Available ................................. 64
6.7 Settings ........................................................................................... 66
Latitude/Longitude Display ........................................................ 68
Time Display ...............................................................................68
Time Offset ................................................................................. 68
Time Format ................................................................................68
COG/SOG Display .....................................................................68
6.8 Radio Setup .................................................................................... 69
Band ............................................................................................ 69
Channel (CH) Name ...................................................................70
Display Name ....................................................................... 70
CH Info ................................................................................. 70
Deleting a Channel Name Entry ........................................... 70
Ring Volume ...............................................................................70
Key Beep ..................................................................................... 70
6.9 DSC Setup ...................................................................................... 71
My MMSI ID ..............................................................................72
Group MMSI Setup .................................................................... 73
Adding a New Group ............................................................74
Editing an Existing Entry ...................................................... 76
Position Reply ............................................................................. 77
Automatic Channel Changing for Incoming Calls ..................... 78
Procedure When Enabled ..................................................... 79
Procedure When Disabled .................................................... 79
6.10 Resetting Factory Defaults .............................................................80
Chapter 7: Customer Service ............................................................................81
7.1 How to Contact Raymarine ............................................................ 81
Appendix A: Specifications ...............................................................................83
Appendix B: Channel List ...................................................................................85
U.S. Marine VHF Channels and Frequencies 85
Canadian Marine VHF Channels and Frequencies .................... 88
International Marine VHF Channels & Frequencies.................. 93
WX Channels (North America only) .......................................... 96
Appendix C: Glossary .........................................................................................97
Index ..............................................................................................99
Chapter 1: Introduction 1
Chapter 1: Introduction
1.1 Ray54 Fixed Station VHF Radio
The Ray54 marine VHF radiotelephone is a microprocessor-controlled
transceiver that provides reliable simplex (single frequency) and semiduplex (two frequency) communications. This handbook describes the
physical and functional characteristics of the radio.
Figure 1-1: Ray54 VHF Radio
The Ray54 provides two-way communications on all US, Canadian and
International marine channels and ten weather channels. Refer to the
Frequency Tables in Appendix B, which list all marine VHF channels
available in your radio. You should familiarize yourself with these tables to
ensure proper channel usage.
1.2 Features
The Ray54 is designed and manufactured to provide ease of operation with
excellent reliability. The Ray54 has many enhanced features, including:
• Waterproof to IPX-7 standard
• Anti-glare 2" x 1.5" LCD with 4 x 12 dot matrix display
• Nine (9) brightness and contrast adjustments
• All USA, Canadian and International Channels
2 Ray54 VHF Radio
• 10 Weather Channel watch with 1050Hz Alert Tone detect
• Dedicated key for switching to Priority Channel 16
• Programmable Secondary Priority Channel key
• All Scan, Memory Scan and 2 Priority Scan functions
• Dual/Tri Watch Monitor modes
• Editable Channel Name displays a 12 character designator
• Enhanced GPS Position Data gives Latitude and Longitude to 1/10,000
of a minute plus Time, SOG and COG data from any NMEA input
• Automatically distinguishes between calls made to Ship or Coast Stations
• Low and High Voltage detection with alarm
• User Mode provides easy access to favorite channels
• Local Mode decreases noise in areas where RF interference is high
• Key Beep volume adjustment (3 levels)
Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
The Ray54 includes equipment for Class “D” Digital Selective Calling
(DSC). DSC protocol is a globally applied system used to send and receive
digital calls. DSC uses a unique Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI)
number to direct DSC calls directly to your radio, much like a telephone
number.When the DSC signal is received, the radio quickly switches over to
channel 70 and performs the corresponding operation.
Note: An MMSI number is required to operate the DSC equipment in this radio. You can program the MMSI number yourself one time only using the
Menu Operation described in this handbook. See My MMSI ID on page 72.
The Ray54 includes the following DSC features:
• Separate receiver dedicated to handling DSC Calls on channel 70
• Position Request function sends GPS position data to or receives position
data from other stations
• Phonebook for automatically making DSC calls
• Quick Save feature saves incoming DSC Calls and the caller’s associated
MMSI number directly into the phonebook
• Quick Call feature sends Individual Calls or Group Calls directly from
the phonebook, just like the redial function on a telephone
• Three (3) Group IDs for making DSC Calls only to stations in your group,
such as a flotilla or fishing fleet
DSC functions are fully described in Chapter 5.
Chapter 2: Installation 3
Chapter 2: Installation
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection
Use care when unpacking the unit from the shipping carton to prevent
damage to the contents. It is also good practice to save the carton and the
interior packing material in the event you must return the unit to the factory.
Equipment Supplied
The following is a list of materials supplied with the Ray54:
Table 2-1: Supplied Components
Part Number Description
E43022
E43023
81231 Handbook, Ray54
R49108
R49128
R49133
R49093
R49095
R49094
R49096
R49104
R49105
R49109
R49110
Ray54, White
Ray54, Charcoal Gray
Power Cord, Ray54
NMEA Cable, Ray54
Speaker Cord, Ray54
Mounting Yoke for White Ray54
Mounting Yoke for Charcoal Ray54
Yoke Knob and Spacer for White Ray54
Yoke Knob and Spacer for Charcoal Ray54
Microphone Bracket for White Ray54
Microphone Bracket for Charcoal Ray54
Sun Cover, White
Sun Cover, Charcoal Gray
Mounting Hardware:
Screws (x4) for Mounting Yoke
Screws (x2) for Microphone Bracket
Screw/Lock Washer (x1) for Grounding
The following is a of optional equipment for the Ray54:
Table 2-2: Optional Equipment
Part Number Description
E46034 Flush Mount Kit, A Series VHF Radios
4 Ray54 VHF Radio
2.2 Planning the Installation
When planning the installation of your Ray54, consider the following
conditions to ensure dependable and trouble-free operation.
Mount the main unit to allow easy access from the location where the boat is
normally navigated.
The main unit is designed to be mounted horizontally or vertically on a flat
bulkhead. Select a location that is non-metallic, dry, protected, wellventilated, and free from high operating temperatures and excessive
vibration. Provide sufficient space behind the main unit to allow for proper
cable connections to the rear panel connectors. Locate the main unit as near
as possible to the power source yet as far apart as possible from any devices
that may cause interference such as motors, generators, and other on board
electronics. The radio should be protected from prolonged direct exposure to
rain and salt spray.
The Ray54 is not designed to be mounted in engine compartments. Do not
install the radio in a location where there may be flammable vapors (such as
in an engine room or compartment, or in a fuel tank bay), water splash or
spray from bilges or hatches, where it is at risk from physical damage from
heavy items (such as hatch covers, tool boxes, etc.), or where it might be
covered by other equipment. Locate the radio at least 1.5 meters from the
antenna.
Safe Compass Distance is 1 meter for a common mechanical compass; other
compass types may require greater distances. To be sure, you should locate
the radio as far as possible from the compass. Test your compass to verify
proper operation while the radio is also operating.
Typical Mounting Methods
The Ray54 can be conveniently mounted on a chart table, bulkhead,
overhead, or any other desired location. Refer to the following figure for
typical mounting methods.
Flush Mounting
In addition to the typical Mounting Methods, theRay54 may also be flush
mounted using the optional E46034 Flush Mount Kit. Instructions for
installing the radio using the Flush Mount Kit are included with the kit. These
kits are available from your Raymarine dealer.
Chapter 2: Installation 5
Figure 2-1: Typical Mounting Methods
CAUTION: Make sure there are no hidden electrical wires or other items behind the desired location before proceeding. Check that free access for mounting and cabling is available.
Figure 2-2: Mounting Dimensions
6 Ray54 VHF Radio
2.3 Power Connections
The red and black power cord provides connections to DC power. The red (+)
wire is connected to the positive terminal of the power source and contains a
7 amp in-line fuse. The black (-) wire is connected to the negative (ground) of
the power source. Should the power connections be inadvertently reversed,
the unit will not power up but no damage will occur. Check the polarity with
a VOM (Voltage/Ohm Meter) and reconnect observing correct polarity. If the
fuse ever needs replacement, be sure to use the same type and rating.
Connect your Ray54 to the nearest primary source of the boat's DC power. A
typical source may be a circuit breaker on the power panel or a fuse block
near the unit. When connecting to either of these sources, the circuit breaker
or other in-line fuse should be rated at 10 amps.
The power cord should be long enough to reach the DC power source. If
additional wire length is required, the cable can be extended by adding more
cable as necessary. However, for power cable runs longer than 15 feet, larger
wire diameter size should be used to prevent voltage line loss.
To ensure adequate current draw to the equipment, Raymarine recommends
that you use lugs to connect the power cable to the DC supply and that the lug
connections be both crimped and soldered. The connection terminal should
be clean, with no sign of corrosion.
The Ray54 is designed to be operated a on 12 volt system. If battery voltage
drops below 10.5 VDC (approximately), the icon appears on the LCD
(see page 15). You should discontinue using the radio if a low voltage
condition occurs as performance would be unreliable. If voltage exceeds 16
VDC, the message EXCESSIVE VOLTAGE appears on the dot matrix display and
an alarm is sounded. You should immediately disconnect the radio if a high
voltage condition occurs as the unit could become damaged.
Figure 2-3: Wiring Connections
Chapter 2: Installation 7
2.4 External Speaker Connections
Located just below the power cord is a cable for connection to an optional
external speaker. Connect the white(+) wire and black (–) wire to the speaker
observing polarity as it is marked on the speaker. When connected, the
external speaker will function simultaneously with the internal speaker.
2.5 Grounding
While special grounding is not generally required for VHF radiotelephone
installations, it is good marine practice to properly ground all electronic
equipment to the boat’s earth ground system. The Ray54 can be connected to
ground by installing the supplied screw and lock washer in the threaded hole
labelled GND on the main unit’s rear panel just below the antenna jack. Then
attach a wire from this screw to the nearest ship’s earth ground connection
point. The recommended wire to be used for such grounding is #10 AWG.
2.6 NMEA Data
The Ray54 accepts NMEA 0183 (V1.5) data from a position determining
device (such as a GPS) to provide the Latitude and Longitude position
information that is transmitted during a DSC Distress Call.
When valid NMEA signal is detected, the GPS indicator appears on the
LCD.When no valid NMEA signal is detected, the NO GPS indicator appears.
Connect the NMEA OUT + and NMEA OUT – signals from the positioning
device to the NMEA IN + (yellow) and NMEA IN – (green) wires in the
radio’s NMEA cable.
An example of how to connect the NMEA cables and power supply using a
suitable connector block is shown in the diagram below. For specific
instructions how to connect your particular GPS, please refer to the
handbook that came with that device.
Figure 2-4: GPS Wiring
8 Ray54 VHF Radio
2.7 Antenna Connections
The coaxial VHF antenna cable connects to the Ray54 antenna jack on the
rear panel using a PL259 VHF type connector. The antenna cable length can
be critical to performance. If you are uncertain, contact a professional
installer or call Raymarine Product Support. If a longer cable length is
required, RG-8x (50 ohm) marine coaxial cable or equivalent cable can be
used for runs up to a maximum of 50 feet. If the distance required is even
greater, Raymarine recommends using low loss RG-213 or equivalent cable
for the entire run to avoid excessive losses in power output
If the antenna RF connector is likely to be exposed to the marine
environment, a protective coating of grease (Dow Corning DC-4 or similar)
can be applied to the connector before connecting it to the radio. Any other
extensions or adapters in the cable run should also be protected by silicon
grease and then wrapped with a waterproofing tape.
Antenna Mounting Suggestions
Mounting the VHF antenna properly is very important because it will
directly affect the performance of your VHF radio. Use a VHF antenna
designed for marine vessels.
Since VHF transmission is essentially line-of-sight, mount the antenna at a
location on the vessel that is free of obstruction to obtain maximum range.
If you must extend the length of the coaxial cable between the antenna and
the radio, use a coaxial cable designed for the least amount of power loss over
the entire cable length.
Antenna Mounting and EME Exposure
For optimal radio performance and minimal human exposure to radio
frequency electromagnetic energy, make sure the antenna is:
• connected to the radio before transmitting
• properly mounted
• located where it will be away from people
• located at least 1.5 meters (5 feet) from the radio
Chapter 3: Getting Started 9
Chapter 3: Getting Started
3.1 Keypad and Rotary Knobs
Several of the keys on the front panel of the main unit serve multiple
purposes. For the most part, the function indicated on the first line of the key
is accessed by pressing and releasing that key. The function indicated on the
second line of the key is accessed by pressing and holding the key for three
seconds.
Figure 3-1: Ray54 Keys Layout
10 Ray54 VHF Radio
Microphone Keys
Key Name Press & Release (<3 sec.) Press & Hold (>3 sec.)
1. PTT Push-to-Talk Push-to-Talk
2. UP/DOWN Channel increment/decrement and
navigating menu item selections
3. 16/9 Switch between the Priority and
Working Channels
Rapid channel change and navigating
menu item selections
Switch to Secondary Priority CH (9);
If already tuned to secondar y channel,
program a new second ary Priority
Channel.
4. HI/LO TX Power High/Low and ACCEPT key
for menu item selections
TX Power High/Low and ACCEPT key
for menu item selections
Main Unit Rotary Keys
Key Name Function
5. CH/PUSH Rotate to increment/decrement channels or navigate menu item
selections
6. PWR/VOL Power radio ON / OFF and adjust volume level
7. SQ Adjust squelch threshold level
Main Unit Push Keys
Key Name Press & Release (<3 sec.) Press & Hold (>3 sec.)
5. CH/PUSH ACCEPT menu item selections ACCEPT menu item selections
8. D W/TRI Du al Watc h Mode Tri Wat ch Mod e
9. CALL/MENU Activate DSC functions Activate Menu functions
10. HL/USER TX Power High/Low USER (Saved Memory Cha nnel) Mode
11. SCAN/SAVE Scan ON/OFF SAVE/DELETE channel to/from memory
12.16/9 Switch between the Priority
and Working Channels
Switch to secondary Priority CH (9);
If already tuned to secondary channel,
program a new secondary Priority Channel.
13. CLEAR/WX Cancel function Weather Channel Mode
14. DISTRESS Designate Distress Type Make Distress Call
Chapter 3: Getting Started 11
Microphone
1. PTT
Press this Push-to-Talk key to transmit.
2. UP/DOWN
Use the arrow keys to change the active channel number. Press and hold for
rapid channel changing. You can also use these keys to scroll through DSC
Call and Menu Mode options and make item selections.
3. 16/9
Use this key to switch to the priority channel or to change the value of the
Secondary Priority Channel.
4. HILO
Use this key to toggle the transmit power from HIGH to LOW. You can also
use it to accept DSC Call and Menu Mode selections.
Main Unit
5. CH
Rotate this knob to change the current channel number and to change values
in Menu mode or during programming. Press the knob to enter values
selected in Menu mode or during programming.
6. PWR/VOL
Use this knob to turn the radio ON and OFF and to set the volume.
7. SQ
Use this knob to set the squelch threshold, which cuts off the receiver when
the signal is too weak for reception of anything but noise.
8. DW/TRI
Press and release this key to select Dual Watch mode, which monitors the
current working channel and CH 16 in cycle. Press and hold to select Tri
Watch, which monitors CH 16, the current working channel and the channel
you have set as the Secondary Priority Channel in cycle. See Section 4.12.
12 Ray54 VHF Radio
9. CALL/MENU
Press and release this key to select to enter DSC Call Mode, which is used for
making DSC Calls and viewing the DSC Call Logs and the DSC Call
Phonebook.
A Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number is required to operate
the DSC equipment in this radio. This number directs DSC calls directly to
your radio, much like a telephone number. You can program the MMSI
number yourself one time only using the Menu Operation described in
Section 6.9, DSC Setup. Otherwise, your Raymarine dealer can program or
change the number for you.
If the MMSI number has not yet programmed, the message DSC IS NOT
OPERATIONAL...PLEASE ENTER MMSI ID is displayed in the dot matrix display
when you press and release CALL/MENU.
DSC Call menu structure is outlined in the following drawing. Full details on
DSC call operation are described in Chapter 5.
Chapter 3: Getting Started 13
Press and hold CALL/MENU to select Menu Mode, which is used to set up the
radio. The menu structure is outlined in the following drawing. Menu
operations are fully described in Chapter 6.
10. HILO/USER
Press and release this key to toggle the transmit power from HIGH to LOW.
Press and hold to select User Channel Mode, which displays only the
channels that you have saved to memory. User Mode is described in Section
4.13.
14 Ray54 VHF Radio
11. SCAN / SAVE
Press and release this key to enter one of the Scan Modes, which are
described in Section 4.10. Press and hold to enter a channel into the radio’s
memory. This function is described in Section 4.11.
12. 16/9
Use this key to switch to the priority channel or to change the value of the
Secondary Priority Channel.
13. CLEAR/WX
Press and release to terminate a function and return to the last-used channel.
Press and hold to select the Weather mode.
14. DISTRESS
Push down the spring-loaded cover and press this key to make a DSC
Distress Call. Instructions for making a Distress Call are described in Section
5.5.
3.2 LCD Display
The following describes the functional characters on the Ray54’s LCD.
Figure 3-2: Ray54 LCD Layout
Chapter 3: Getting Started 15
1. (HI/LO) TX Power
Indicates whether transmit power is set for 25 watts (HI) or 1 watt (LO).
2. (TX) Transmitting
Indicates the PTT is being pressed and the radio is transmitting.
3. (RX) Receiving
Indicates that the radio is receiving a radio signal.
4. (LOCAL) Local/Distant Mode
Indicates the radio is in Local Reception mode, which decreases receiver
sensitivity in high traffic areas to decrease unwanted reception.
5. DSC Message
Indicates the radio has received a DSC Call. Details of the call can be viewed
in the DSC log. See Section 5.8.
6. ATIS Active
Indicates ATIS transmission is enabled. Only available in European
countries using International channel set.
7. NO GPS
When GPS appears, positional data is available. When NO GPS appears, the
radio is not receiving positional data.
8. Battery Low
Indicates vessel battery voltage is below 10.5 VDC, which is the lowest
voltage at which the radio can be reliably operated.
9. (USER) Favorite Channel Mode
Indicates the radio is in User Mode. User Mode displays only the channels
that you have saved to memory, enabling you to easily scan your favorite
channels while bypassing unwanted or seldom-used channels.
10. (SAVED) Memory Mode
Indicates the current channel has been saved in memory. Appears during
Saved Scan mode. Only saved channels are scanned during USER mode.
16 Ray54 VHF Radio
11. (WX) Weather Channel
Weather channel mode is active.
12. (ALERT) Weather Alert
The radio is monitoring for a weather alert.
13. (U I C) Channel Set
Indicates which channel set is selected: US, International or Canadian.
14. (A) Simplex Channel
Indicates that the currently-selected channel is simplex; you transmit and
receive on the same frequency.
15. (B) Receive-only Channel
Indicates that you cannot transmit on the currently-selected channel; it is
receive-only. Used with Canadian channels only.
16. Channel Number
Displays the current channel number.
17. Dot Matrix Display
Indicates radio functions or special conditions. The type of information
displayed depends on the situation. Figure 3-3 demonstrates a typical screen
in normal operating mode. The screen is different when sending/receiving a
DSC Call (see Chapter 5) or setting up a Menu item (see Chapter 6).
Note: In the following sample:
(1) The Channel Name is editable (see page 70).
(2) Valid position data received from a GPS or manually entered (see page 64).
(3) Last line may contain COG/SOG data instead of time (see page 68).
Figure 3-3: Typical Dot Matrix Display Data
Chapter 4: General Operations 17
Chapter 4: General Operations
4.1 Turning the Power ON and OFF
Turn the PWR/VOL knob clockwise until it clicks.
When the unit powers up in Normal mode it:
1. Beeps, illuminates the backlight at full brightness, and displays all segments and indicators for 2 seconds.
2. Displays the software version number on the dot matrix display.
3. Recalls the last CH number, TX power settings and operation mode. If no last-used setting data exists, goes to CH 16 and high TX Power.
When GPS Data is available, extended position data is also displayed with
the offset time on the dot matrix display. This information will be displayed
when display option for the position and time is enabled on the Menu. See
Section 6.6.
To turn the unit OFF, rotate the Volume knob completely counterclockwise
until it clicks.
4.2 Setting the Volume
Adjust the PWR/VOL knob to control the loudspeaker volume level. Turn
clockwise to increase the volume; counterclockwise to decrease the volume.
Note: Key press beep volume is also controlled by the VOL level.
4.3 Setting the Squelch
The Squelch circuit sets the threshold for cutting off the receiver when the
signal is too weak for reception of anything but noise.
To properly set the squelch, rotate the SQ knob counterclockwise until audio
is heard. Then rotate clockwise until background noise disappears.
4.4 Setting the Power Output
The choice of power output is dependent upon the distance of transmission
and transmitting conditions.
Press and release the HL/USER key on the main unit or microphone to toggle
the TX power from LOW (1 watt) to HIGH (25 watts). The corresponding LO
or HI indicator appears on the LCD.
18 Ray54 VHF Radio
Initial contact should always be attempted using low power. You should
switch to high power only when contact can not be made on low power in
emergency situations. This procedure is specified by the FCC but is also part
of marine communications courtesy.
Note: Some channels are limited by regulation to be low power only. If the
HILO operation request is denied, an error tone beeps.
Overriding the Low Output Power Restriction
In the US, channels 13 and 67 can temporarily
override the low power restriction.
➤ To override the LO power restriction on
channels 13 or 67 and transmit at high power:
Press and hold the PTT key on the microphone
as you press and hold the HI/LO key. The TX
power is set to HI power for as long as you hold
down the HI/LO key.
Chapter 4: General Operations 19
4.5 Setting the Channel
On the microphone...
Press and release the UP arrow to increment the channel number.
Press and release the DOWN arrow to decrement the channel.
Press and hold either key for rapid channel scrolling.
On the main unit...
Rotate the CH knob clockwise to increment the channel number.
Rotate the CH knob counterclockwise to decrement the channel number.
4.6 Selecting a Weather Channel
The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
broadcasts continuous weather reports and severe weather alerts, as needed.
The Ray54 is programmed to receive 10 weather channels and sound an
alarm if a weather alert is received.
Press and hold the CLEAR/WX key to enter Weather mode.
20 Ray54 VHF Radio
The WX indicator appears on the LCD. Rotate the CH knob to select from
channels WX01 through WX10.
Press and release the CLEAR/WX key again to return to normal operation.
Note:
1. WX broadcasts can only be heard in the US and Canada.
2. During Weather mode, the PTT, HILO/USER, SCAN/SAVE and DW/TRI keys are disabled and an error beep sounds if pressed.
Weather Alert Operation
Weather Alert is toggled ON and OFF by pressing and holding CLEAR/WX
key in the weather mode. The ALERT indicator illuminates.
When Weather Alert function is enabled and the radio is tuned to the normal
working channel, the last-used weather channel is checked every four
minutes for weather alert tone. If the alert tone is detected, the WX and ALERT
indicators flash and an alarm sounds.
The radio automatically turns to the currently-monitored WX channel where
the weather alert has been detected. The alert is detected in all modes of
operation (Standby, Dual and Tri Watch, Scan, etc.)
4.7 Selecting the Priority Channel
The Ray54 provides you with a dedicated key for switching to the Priority
Channel 16.
If not already tuned to the Priority Channel 16, press and release the 16/9
key to switch to CH16 at high power.
PRIORITY CH appears in the dot matrix display.
If already on CH 16, press and release the 16/9 to return to the last-used
working channel.
Note: When the priority channel is selected, it is always set to HIGH transmit power. You may reduce power if desired by pressing the HI/LO key.
The 16/9 key also can be used to cancel all modes and switch to CH 16.
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