RCA MR240 Instruction Manual

Page 1

MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

Congratulations on selecting the MR240TM from

RCA Communications Systems - The Most Trusted Name In Radio!

Our new series of business communications products establishes a new benchmark in

premium radio products made to perform awlessly under the most demanding commercial conditions. Cutting edge design, professional grade materials and components, simple operat io n and sup erior assembl y quality - RCA Communic ations Syste ms has it all, including our exclusive no-nonsense, two-year “Warranty Protection Program” one of the most comprehensive warranties in the communications industry.

To ensure you achieve maximum performance from your MR240TM radio, please be sure to carefully read this manual.

MODELS COVERED IN THIS MANUAL:

MR240 Handheld Marine Two-Way Radio

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

FOREWORD

Thank you for purchasing an RCA MR240TM Handheld Marine Two-Way Radio. Read all instructions carefully and completely before using the transceiver.

MR240 Handheld Marine Two-Way Radio is a powerful marine radio. It is designed to IMO (International Maritime Organization) standards. With proper care this radio should provide you with years of trouble-free

operation.

SAVE THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL - This

instruction manual contains important

operating instructions. Please read all the instructions carefully and completely before using the transceiver.

CAUTION

■ NEVER connect the transceiver to an AC out- let. This may pose a re hazard or result in an

electric shock.

■ DO NOT use or place the transceiver in direct

sunlight or in areas with temperatures below 5°F (-15°C) or above 131°F (55°C).

■ KEEP the transceiver at least 1 meter away from your vessel’s magnetic navigation

compass.

■ BE CAREFUL the transceiver meets IP-X7 requirements for waterproof protection. However, once the transceiver has been dropped, waterproof protection cannot be guaranteed because of possible damage to the transceiver’s case or the waterproof seal.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

■ MAKE SURE the exible antenna and battery cover are securely attached to the transceiver and that antenna and battery cover are dry before attachment. Exposing the inside of the

transceiver to water will result in serious

damage to the transceiver.

RECOMMENDATION

Clean the transceiver thoroughly with fresh water after exposure to saltwater, and dry it before operating. Otherwise, the transceiver’s key, switches and controllers may become unusable due to salt crystallization.

NOTE: DO NOT submerge the transceiver in water if there is any reason to suspect the waterproof protection may not be effective. For example, in cases where the battery cover or DC power jack rubber seal is damaged, cracked or broken, or the

transceiver has been dropped, or when the battery cover, antenna or DC power jack are

detached from the transceiver.

FEATURES

■ FLOATS ON WATER

The transceiver oats in fresh or salt water even

when the supplied accessories are attached.

Unit may not oat when third-party replace-

ment parts and/or accessories are used.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

■ FLOATS AND FLASHES

At the bottom of each radio is a light that blinks while oating in the water. The LED light is noticeable in the dark (like a ashing shing oat) so the radio can easily be found while in the water. The light works even when the

radio is turned OFF.

Flashing Warning Lights

■ WATER CLEAN

WaterClean is new technology that helps clears water from the speaker. The WaterClean function emits a vibrating beep that helps remove water, which can mufe the sound coming from the speaker, from the speaker housing.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

■ Up To 5 Watts

■ Dual Bands / Three Bands Frequency Watch

■ Large LCD Display Easy To See And Operate

■ Auto Scan Function

■ Built-in Charger Circuitry

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

If your vessel requires assistance, contact other vessels and the Coast Guard by sending a distress call on Channel 16.

DISTRESS CALL PROCEDURE USING CHANNEL 16

1. “MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY.”

2. “THIS IS ..........................” (name of vessel)

3. Your call sign or other indication of the

vessel.

4. “LOCATED AT ..................” (your position)

5. The nature of the distress and assistance

required.

6. Any other information which might

facilitate the rescue.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

PREPARATION

Supplied Accessories .................................... 8

Charging the Battery Pack .......................... 8

Battery Pack ................................................ 9

Flexible Antenna ......................................... 10

Belt Clip .................................................... 10

Hand Strap .................................................10

PANEL DESCRIPTION

Panel Description ....................................... 11

Display ....................................................... 13

Turn ON/OFF ............................................... 15

Adjusting the Volume Level .......................... 15

Adjusting the Squelch Level ........................ 16

Receiving and Transmitting .......................... 16

Receiving .............................................. 16

Transmitting .......................................... 17

Channel Group Selecter .............................. 17

Channel Selection ...................................... 18

Channel 16 ............................................ 18

Channel 9 (Call Channel) ...................... 18

Weather Channels ................................. 19

Call Channel Programming .......................... 19

Monitor Function ...................................... 20

Volume Loud Function .............................. 21

Volume Mute Function .............................. 21

Automatic Backlight .................................. 21

Lock Function ............................................ 21

WaterClean Water Draining Function ......... 22

SCAN OPERATION

Scan Types ................................................ 22

Setting TAG Channels ............................... 24

Setting (or clearing) a TAG Channel .......24

Setting (or clearing) all Tagged Channels .. 24

Starting a Scan...........................................24

CONTENTS

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

DUALWATCH / TRI-WATCH

Description..........................................25

Operation ..................................................25

SET MODE

Set Mode Programming ............................26

Set Mode Operation .......................... 26

Set Mode Items .........................................28

Beep Tone Function (“bP”) ...................... 28

Weather Alert (“AL”)............................ 28

Priority Scan Function (“Pr”) ................ 28

Scan Resume Time (“St”) ......................28

Auto Scan Function (“AS”) ................... 28

Dual/Tri-watch Function (“dt”) ............... 29

Monitor Key Action (“Sq”) ................... 29

Automatic Backlighting (“bL”) ............. 29

LCD Contrast Setting (“LC”) .................. 29

Power Save Function (“PS”) ................... 29

CHANNEL LIST .......................................... 31

SPECIFICATIONS ......................................... 32

TROUBLESHOOTING .................................. 34

BATTERY CAUTION ................................... 36

WARRANTY STATEMENT ........................... 40

RF EXPOSURE ............................................ 43

CONTENTS [continued]

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

PREPARATION

■ Supplied Accessories

Carefully unpack the transceiver. We recommend that you identify items listed in the table below before discarding the packing materials. If any items are missing or damaged, please contact your dealer immediately.

Items Qty.

Antenna 1

Battery Pack 1

Adaptor 1

Belt Clip 1

Hand Strap 1

Instruction Manual 1

■ Charging the Battery Pack

Important: Prior to using the transceiver for the rst time, the battery pack must be fully charged for optimum life and operation. To avoid damage to the transceiver, turn the power OFF while charging.

1. Connect the AC Adapter to a standard

electrical outlet.

2. Rotate and remove the power jack cap on the top of the transceiver and plug the power

adapter connector into the female connection.

When the unit is charging,

and will

show up on the display.

3. Once the battery is charged, “FL” will appear on the DISPLAY. Remove Power Adapter from

radio.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

NOTE: If the battery pack is not installed or improperly installed, the DISPLAY will show “Er” when trying to charge the unit.

■

Battery Pack

To insert the battery pack:

Place the battery into the transceiver so it ts at, and securely attach the battery cover as shown. Push the cover until the latch comes

back to the locked position.

To remove the battery pack, slide the latch and lift the battery cover to remove it. Then remove the battery pack, as shown.

CAUTION: When inserting or replacing the battery pack, please be sure the battery cover latch is returned to the locked position. If the latch is not properly locked, water may enter the unit causing damage.

Power Switch

Charging Interface

Power Adapter

AC Outlet

Power Contacts

Battery Pack

Snap

Battery Cover

Battery Pack

Power Contacts

Snap

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

■ Flexible Antenna

1. To connect the supplied xable antenna to the antenna connector, rotate it clockwise.

2. To remove the antenna, rotate it counter-

clockwise.

- NEVER carry the transceiver by the antenna

■

Belt Clip

Using the two supplied screws, attach the belt

clip to the back of the transceiver.

■

Hand Strap

Pass the hand strap through the loop on the side of the transceiver as illustrated at right. This facilitates carrying.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

PANEL DESCRIPTION

1. PTT (Push To Talk)

- Hold down to transmit; release to receive.

2. 16/C (Channel 16/Call Channel)

- Push to select channel 16.

- Hold for 1 second to select the call channel. (factory default: channel 9 )

- When the call channel is selected, hold for 3 seconds to enter the call channel programming

mode.

- While in the set mode, push to return to the

normal operation mode.

3. FAV/TAG

- PUSH to sequentially select your favorite channels in a channel group.

- Hold for 1 second to set or clear the TAG for

Speaker

Microphone

Display

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

6. POWER [ ]

- Push to turn power ON or OFF.

7. VOL./SQL/MONI

- Push to enter the volume adjustment mode or the squelch adjustment mode.

- Hold for 1 second to activate the Monitor

function.

- While holding this key, hold [

] key to

turn ON the power and enter the Set Mode

function.

- While in the Set Mode, push to select an item.

- While holding this key, push[▼]to turn ON the Volume Mute function .

Do the same steps again to turn OFF the

function.

the display channel.

- While holding, turn ON the power to clear or set all TAG channels in the selected channel group.

4. SCAN/DUAL

- Push to start or stop a normal or priority scan.

- Hold for 1 second to enter the Dual/Tri-watch

mode.

- Push to exit the Dual/Tri-watch mode

- Hold this key and HI/LO key for 1 second, to activate the WaterClean function. (See page 22 for AutoQuake information.)

5. [HI/LO]/[

]

- Push to select the high or low output power.

- Hold for 1 second to turn the Lock function ON or OFF.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

10. ANTENNA CONNECTOR

- Connect the supplied antenna here.

11. [DC 6V]

- Connect the adaptor or optional power cable

here.

NOTE: Reattach the power jack cap when the adaptor is not connected. Otherwise, water may be able to get into the transceiver.

DISPL AY

- While holding this key, push [▲] to turn ON the Volume Loud function.

Do the same steps again to turn OFF the

function.

8. [

▲]/[▼]UP/DOWN

- Push to select an operation channel.

- While in the Set Mode, push to select the setting or value of an item.

- Push to check TAG channels or change scanning direction during a scan.

9. [CH]

- Hold for 1 second, one or more times, to select a USA, International, or Canada channel group.

- Push to return to the previous channel before selecting Channel 16 or the calling channel.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

Icon Description

Appears when International channel group is selected

Appears when Canadian channel group is selected

Appears when receiving a signal or when the squelch

opens

Blinks while monitoring

Appears when a TAG

channel is selected

Appears when the call

channel is selected

Appears when the radio is charging

Battery Indicator, remaining battery power

Blinks while scanning

Appears while the lock function is

activated

Icon Description

Transmit Indicator. Appears while transmitting

Low Power indicator

1) “LOW” appears when

low power is selected

2) “LOW” blinks when switching

forced low power mode

because of a high temperature error or low voltage

Weather Channel and Weather Alert Indicator “WX” appears

when the weather channel

group is selected. “WX ALT”

appears while the weather alert

function is activated; icon blinks

when an alert tone is received.

Appears while working in ATIS Channel

Appears when U.S.A. channel group is selected

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

BASIC OPERATION

TURN ON/OFF

1. Press [ ] for 1 second to turn ON.

2. Press again [

] for 1 second to turn OFF.

ADJUSTING THE VOLUME LEVEL

The volume level can be adjusted using [VOL/ SQL] and [▼] or [▲].

1. Push [VOL/SQL] once to enter the volume adjustment mode. Then press [▼] or [

▲] to

adjust the volume level.

- The ”VOL” icon starts blinking.

- The transceiver has 31 volume levels and OFF.

- When no key operation is performed for 5

Icon Description

Appears when a duplex

channel is selected

Appears when in Dualwatch mode.

Appears when Tri-watch mode.

Channel number readout.

Indicates the selected operating channel number In Set Mode, indicates the

selected condition

In Dual/Tri-watch mode shows CH16 during priority scan. Appears while volume selecting Appears while SQL selecting Appears while mode selecting

Shows squelch level

Shows volume level Blinks when the volume

mute is activated

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

seconds, the transceiver returns to the normal

mode.

2. Push [VOL/SQL] twice to exit the volume adjustment model.

ADJUSTING THE SQUELCH LEVEL

The squelch level can be adjusted using [VOL/ SQL] and [▼] or [

▲] in the order to properly

receive signals. Be sure to adjust the squelch when scanning channels to ensure proper

reception.

1. Push [VOL/SQL] twice to enter the squelch adjustment mode, then push [▼] or [

▲] to

adjust the squelch level.

- The ”SQL” icon starts blinking.

- The transceiver has 11 squelch levels: OP is completely open; 10 is tight squelch; 1 is loose squelch.

- If a squelch adjustment is not made within 5 seconds, the transceiver returns to the normal

mode.

2. Push [VOL/SQL] again to exit the squelch adjustment mode.

RECEIVING AND TRANSMITTING

■ Receiving

1. Set the volume levels by push [VOL/SQL], [▼] or [

▲].

2. Set the squelch levels by [▼] or [

▲].

- When receiving a signal, [

] appears and

audio is heard from the speaker.

- To conserve battery power, the transceiver’s “Power Save” function automatically activates when no signal is received for 5 seconds.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

■ Transmitting

1. Push [Hi/Lo] to select output power.

- “LOW” appears when low power is selected.

- Choose low power for short range communications; choose high power for longer distance communications.

- Some channels work in low power mode only.

2. Hold down [PTT] to transmit, then speak

into the microphone.

- “TX” appears.

- Channel 70 cannot be used for transmission.

3. Release [PTT] to receive.

NOTE: Transmitting without an antenna can damage the transceiver.

- To maximize the readability of your transmitted signal, pause for a second after pushing [PTT] hold the microphone 2” - 4” (5 - 10cm) from your mouth and speak into the microphone at

a normal voice level.

CHANNEL GROUP SELECTER

This transceiver is pre-programmed with U.S.A., International, Canadian channels. Choose the appropriate channel groups for your operating area.

1. Push [CH] to select a regular channel.

2. Hold down [CH] for 1 second, one or more times,to select the desired channel group.

- The selectable channel groups are different, depending on your operating area.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

3. Push [▼] or [▲] to select a channel.

- “A” appears when a simplex channel is

selected.

CHANNEL SELECTION

■ Channel 16

Channel 16 is the distress and safety channel. It used for establishing initial contact with an aid station and for emergency communications.

Channel 16 is monitored in both Dualwatch and Tri-watch mode. When not broadcasting, you must always monitor Channel 16.

1. Push [16/C] momentarily to select Channel

16.

2. Push [CH] to return to the channel used before Channel 16, or push [▼] or [

▲] to

select a channel.

■ Channel 9 (Call Channel)

Each regular channel group has separate leisure-use call channels. The Call Channel is monitored during Tri-watch. The Call Channels can be programmed and are used to store your most often used channel in each channel

International Channel Group

U.S. Channel Group Canadian Channel Group

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

1. Push [CH] to select weather channel or

normal channel.

- Appears “WX” when weather channel

selected.

- Appears “WX ALT” when turned on weather

alert function.

2. Push [▼] or [

▲] to select channel.

CALL CHANNEL PROGRAMMING

Call Channel is used to access the channels you use most often. Channel 9 is the Call Channel default. However, you can set up Call Channels in each channel group for quick recall of the channels you use most often.

group for quick recall.

1. Push and hold 16/C for 1.5 second to select the Call Channel of the selected channel group. “CALL” and call channel number appears.

2. Push [CH] to return to return to the previous channel, or push [▼] or [

▲] to select a channel.

■ Weather Channels

The MR240TM transceiver has 10 preprogrammed weather channels. There are used for monitoring weather broadcasts. The transceiver can automatically detect a weather

alert tone on the selected weather channel

while receiving on another channel or while scanning.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

1. Push [CH] to select a desired channel group to be programmed

2. Push [16/C] for 1 second to select a Call

Channel.

3. Push [16/C] for 3 seconds until you hear a beep and a “DUDU” tone. After the tone, you can begin entering the channels you want in Call Channel Programming.

- Channel number blinks.

4. Push [▼] or [

▲] to select desired call channel

5. Push [16/C] to conrm and save. Push [CH]

cancel and exit.

MONITOR FUNCTION

The monitor function opens the squelch.

- Push [MONI] to active monitor function.

- “BUSY” will blink and sound while monitor

function actives.

Dual-Band Duty

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

VOLUME LOUD FUNCTION

The volume loud function temporarily maximizes the volume level. It has no effect when the volume level is 31.

1. Push [VOL/SQL] and [

▲] to turn ON the

function.

2. Push [VOL/SQL] and [

▲] to turn it OFF.

VOLUME MUTE FUNCTION

Volume Mute can be activated temporarily.

1. Push [VOL/SQL] and [

▲] to activate.

- The audio is muted.

- The volume level indicator starts blinking.

2. Push [VOL/SQL] and [

▲] to turn Volume

Mute off.

AUTOMATIC BACKLIGHT

This function is convenient for night time operation. The automatic backlighting can be activated in Set Mode.

- Push any key except for [PTT] to turn the backlighting ON.

- Backlighting is automatically turned OFF after 5 seconds of inactivity.

LOCK FUNCTION

This function electronically locks all keys (except for [PTT], [▼], [▲], [VOL /SQL], and

[ ]) to prevent accidental changing of the

channel and function access.

- Push and hold [

] for 1 second to turn the

function ON and OFF.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

WATERCLEAN WATER DRAINING

The MR240 uses new technology to clear water away from the speaker grill: WaterClean. WaterClean helps drain water away from the speaker housing (water that might otherwise mufe the sound coming from the speaker).

The MR240 emits a vibrating beep when this

function is activated.

- Push and hold [SCAN] and [HI/LO]

- A low beep tone sounds for 9 seconds to drain water, regardless of volume level setting.

- The transceiver does not perform key operations while the WaterClean function is activated. The WaterClean function can not

be activated when an optional speaker or microphone is connected.

SCAN OPERATION

SCAN TYPES

Scanning is an efcient way to locate signals quickly over a wide frequency range. The transceiver has priority scan and normal scan.

In addition, the weather alert and auto scan functions are available for standby

convenience. These functions can be activated

simultaneously, depending on the setting in Set Mode.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

Normal Scan

Normal Scan searches through all TAG channels in sequence. However, unlike priority scan, Channel 16 is not checked unless Channel 16 is set as a TAG channel.

Priority Scan

Priority scan sequentially searches through all TAG channels while monitoring Channel 16. When a signal is detected on Channel 16, the scan pauses until the signal disappears; when a signal is detected on a channel other than Channel 16, the scan switches to Dualwatch, until the signal disappears.

Normal Scan

Priority Scan

Page 24

MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

SETTING TAG CHANNELS

For more efcient scanning, set your most used channels as TAG Channels. Channels that are not tagged will be skipped during scanning. Tagged Channels can easily be changed. See

below.

■ Setting (or clearing) a TAG channel

1. Push [CH] to select desired channel group.

2. Push [▼] or [

▲] to select the desired

channels to be set as a TAG Channel.

3. Push and hold “

“ for 1 second. To set

the displayed channel as a TAG Channel.

- “ “ appears in the function display.

4. To cancel a TAG channel setting, push and hold “

“ for 1 second.

- “ “ disappears.

■ Setting (or clearing) all tagged channels

1. While pushing and holding [TAG], turn power [

] ON to clear all

TAG channels in the selected channel group.

2. Repeat above procedure to set all channels as TAG channels.

STARTING A SCAN

1. Push [SCAN] to start normal scan or priority

scan.

- “SCAN” Blinks.

- “16” appears on the sub channel readout during a priority scan.

- When a signal is received, the scan pauses until the signal disappears, or resumes after pausing 5 seconds, depending on the Set

Mode setting.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

- Push [▼] or [▲] to sequentially select TAG channels, change the scanning direction or manually resume the scan.

2. Push [SCAN], [PTT], [16/C], [CH] or [FAV] to

stop the scan.

To set the Priority Scan Function, Scan Resume Timer and the Auto Scan Function in advance,

see Set Mode (page 26).

DUALWATCH / TRI - WATCH

DESCRIPTION

Dualwatch monitors Channel 16 while you are receiving on another channel; Tri-watch monitors Channel 16 and a call channel while receiving another channel. Dualwatch/Tri-

watch is convenient for monitoring channel 16 when you are operating on another channel.

OPERATION

1. Push [SCAN/DUAL] for 1 second to start Dualwatch or Tri-watch.

- “DW” blinks during Dualwatch; ”TW” blinks during Tri-watch.

- A beep tone sounds when a signal is received on Channel 16.

Dual-Band Duty

Call Channel

Tri-Band Duty

Dualwatch Tri-watch

Page 26

MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

- Tri-watch switches to Dualwatch when receiving a signal on the call channel.

2. Push [SCAN/DUAL] to cancel Dualwatch/ Tri-

watch.

SET MODE

SET MODE PROGRAMMING

Set Mode is used to change the settings of transceiver’s functions: Beep Tone Function, Priority Scan Function, Scan Resume Timer,

Auto Scan Function, Dual/Tri-watch Function, Monitor Key Action, Automatic Backlighting, LCD Contrast Setting and Power Save Function.

■ Set Mode operation

1. Turn OFF the power.

2. While holding down [VOL/SQL], turn ON the power to enter Set Mode.

3. Release [VOL/SQL]. “bP” appears on display.

4. Push [VOL/SQL]to select a desired option of

the item.

5. Push [▼] [

▲] to select the desired option.

6. To exit Set Mode, push [16/C]

Dual-Band Duty Tri-Band Duty

Dualwatch Tri-watch

Page 27

MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

No. Show Set Project

Set parameter

options

The default

value

bP Beep (Off/On)

of /on on

AL Weather Warning (Off/On)

of /on of

Pr Priority Scan (Off/On)

of /on of

St Scan Resume Timer (Off/On)

of /on of

AS Automatic Scanning (Off/On)

of /on of

dt Dualwatch / Tri-watch Duty

d-/t- d-

Sq Monitor Key Functions (Push/Hold)

Pu / Ho Pu

bL Automatic Backlight (Off/On)

of /on on

LC LCD Contrast

Hi / Lo Hi

PS Power Save (Off/On)

of / on on

Page 28

MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

SET MODE ITEMS

■ Beep Tone Function (“bP”)

Turns the key touch beep sound ON or OFF.

■ Weather Alert (“AL”)

U.S.A. NOAA broadcast stations transmit a weather alarm when there is signicant weather information. When the weather alert function is turned on, the radio will sound an alarm at the same time “WXALT” symbol ashes on the screen. During the scan, the

current weather channel in use will be scanned.

■ Priority Scan Function (“Pr”)

The transceiver has 2 scan types - normal (OFF) and priority (ON) scan. A normal scan searches all TAG channels in the selected channel group.

A Priority Scan sequentially searches all TAG channels while monitoring Channel 16.

■ Scan Resume Timer (“St”)

The Scan Resume Timer can be set as a pause (OFF) or timer scan (ON).

- OFF: when a signal is detected, the scan pauses on the channel until the signal disappears, and then resumes.

- ON: When a signal is detected, the scan pauses on the channel for 5 seconds, and then

resumes.

■ Auto Scan Function (“AS”)

The Auto Scan Function automatically starts a normal or priority scan when no signal is received, and no operation is performed for 30

seconds.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

- The backlighting is automatically turned OFF after 5 seconds of inactivity.

■ LCD Contrast Setting (“LC”)

Set the LCD contrast level to high contrast or

low contrast.

- The LCD contrast level has little effect during

indoor use.

■ Power Save Function (“PS”)

The power save function reduces battery drain by turning OFF the receiver circuit for preset

intervals.

- OFF: Function is turned OFF

- ON: Function is turned ON and will be activated when no signal is received and no

operation is performed for 5 seconds.

■ Dual/Tri-watch Function (“dt”)

Set the watch type to Dualwatch or Tri-watch.

■ Monitor Key Action (“Sq”)

The Monitor Key temporarily opens the squelch. This item sets the key action.

- “PU” (Push): The monitor function is activated by holding down [MONI]. The squelch open while holding down the key.

- “Ho” (Hold): The monitor function is activated by holding down [MONI] for 1 second. The squelch stays open until any key is pushed.

■ Automatic Backlighting (“bL”)

This function is convenient for night-time operation. The backlight can be changed to ON and OFF.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

SET MODE ITEMS (The display shows the current settings, and the selected function is displayed in the dotted circle.)

• Auto scan

Starting item

• Dual/Tri-watch

• Automatic backlighting

• Power save

• LCD contrast • Monitor key action

: Push +

: Push Push

Page 31

MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

CHANNEL LIST

Channel number

Frequency(MHz)

Frequency(MHz) Frequency(MHz)

Frequency(MHz)

USA

Frequency(MHz)

INT

INT INT

INTCAN CAN CAN CAN

Transmit

Receive Receive

Receive

Weather Channel

Page 32

MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

SPECIFICATIONS

General

Frequency Range

TX: 156.000-161.450MHz

RX: 156.000-163.425MHz

Type of emission FM (16K0G3E)

Battery Pack 1500mAh Li-ion (DC 3.7V)

Frequency stability ±10 PPM

Operating temperature range

5°F (-15°C) - 131°F (55°C)

Antenna

impedance

50Ω

Dimensions (H × W × D)

5.5” (140mm) × 2.6” (65mm) × 1.6” (41mm)

Weight 8.7 oz (247g)

Transmitter

Output Power 5W/1W

Maximum Frequency Deviation

±5kHz

Spurious Emissions 0.25uW

Adjacent Channel Power ≥70dB

Audio Harmonic Distortion ≤10%

Current Drain

≤1.5A (High power) ≤0.9A (Low power) ≤0.35A (Max audio output)

Page 33

MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

Receiver

Receive Sensitivity ≤0.22μV

Squelch Sensitivity ≤0.22μV

HUM and Noise ≥40dB

Adjacent Channel Selectivity ≥70dB

Spurious Response ≥70dB

Intermodulation ≥68dB

Audio Output Power ≥0.6W (10%)

SPECIFICATIONS [continued]

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

TROUBLESHOOTING

Radio operation issues are generally due to improper connections, incorrect settings, or incomplete programming, not by unit failure. Please check the troubleshooting issues and refer to the relevant section of the manual in an effort to solve any radio issues. If you do not see a relevant troubleshooting issue, please contact Customer Support for more information.

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION Pg. #

The transceiver does not

turn ON.

1. The battery is exhausted.

2. The battery pack is not correctly inserted.

1. Recharge the battery pack

2. Correctly insert the battery pack.

- 8

- 9

No sound from speaker.

1. The squelch level is too high.

2. Volume level is too low.

3. Speaker has been

exposed to water.

1. Set the squelch level to

the threshold level.

2. Adjust the audio level

to a suitable level.

3. Remove water from the speaker grill using WaterClean.

- 16

- 15

- 22

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

TROUBLESHOOTING [continued]

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION Pg. #

Transmitting is impossible, or high power can

not be selected.

1. Some channels are

limited to low power

2. Some channels only receive.

3. The output power is set to low.

4. The battery is exhausted.

1. Change the channel.

2. Push [Hi/Lo] to select high power.

3. Recharge the battery pack.

- 17-19

- 17

- 8

The displayed

channel

cannot be changed.

1. The Lock function is activated.

1. Hold down [

] (Hi/

Lo) for 1 second to turn

OFF the function.

- 21

Scan does not start.

1. “TAG” channels are not programmed.

1. Set desired channels as “TAG” channels.

- 24

No beep sounds. 1. Beep Tone function is turned OFF.

1. Turn ON the Beep Tone

in the set mode.

-28

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

BATTERY CAUTION

Misuse of Lithium-ion batteries may result in the following hazards: smoke, re, or the battery may rupture. Misuse can also cause damage to the battery or degradation of battery performance.

■ DANGER! Use and charge only specied Icom battery pack with Icom radios or Icom chargers. Only Icom battery packs are tested and approved for use and charge with Icom radios or Icom chargers. Using third-party or counterfeit battery packs or chargers may cause smoke, re, or cause the battery to burst.

■ DANGER! DO NOT hammer or otherwise impact the battery. Do not use the battery if it has been severely impacted or dropped, or if the battery has been subjected to heavy pressure. Battery damage may not be visible on the outside of the case. Even if the surface of the battery does not show cracks or any other damage, the cells inside the battery may rupture or catch re.

■ DANGER! NEVER use or leave battery pack in areas with temperatures above +122°F (+50°C). High temperature buildup in the battery, such as could occur near res or stoves, inside a sunheated car, or by setting the battery in direct sunlight may cause the battery to rupture or catch re. Excessive temperatures may also degrade battery performance or shorten battery life.

■ DANGER! DO NOT expose the battery to rain, snow, saltwater, or any other liquids. Never charge or use a wet battery. If the battery gets wet, be sure to wipe it dry before using. The battery by itself

is not waterproof.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

■ DANGER! NEVER incinerate a used battery pack since internal battery gas may cause them to rupture or may cause an explosion.

■ DANGER! NEVER solder the battery terminals, or NEVER modify the battery pack. This may cause heat generation, and the battery may rupture, emit smoke or catch re.

■ DANGER! Use the battery only with the transceiver for which it is specied. Never use a battery with any other equipment, or for any purpose that is not described in this instruction manual.

■ DANGER! If uid from inside the battery gets in your eyes, blindness can result. Rinse your eyes with clean water, without rubbing them, and see a doctor immediately.

■ WARNING! Immediately stop using the battery if it emits an abnormal odor, heats up, or is discolored or deformed. If any of these conditions occur, contact your Icom dealer or distributor.

■ WARNING! Immediately wash, using clean water, any part of the body that comes into contact with uid from inside the battery.

■ WARNING! NEVER put the battery in a microwave oven, high pressure container, or in an induction heating cooker. This could cause overheating, a re, or cause the battery to rupture.

■ CAUTION: Always use the battery within the specic temperature range for the transceiver (–4°F to +140°F; –20°C to +60°C) and the battery itself (–4°F to +140°F; –20°C to +60°C). Using the battery out of its specic temperature range will reduce the battery’s performance and battery life.

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MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

BATTERY CAUTION [continued]

CAUTION: Shorter battery life could occur if the battery is left fully charged, completely discharged,

or in an excessive temperature environment (above +140°F; +60°C) for an extended period of time. If the battery must be left unused for a long time, it must be detached from the radio after discharging. You may use the battery until the remaining capacity is about half, then keep it safely in a cool dry place with the temperature range as follows:

–4°F to +122°F (–20°C to +50°C) (within a month)

–4°F to +95°F (–20°C to +35°C) (within three months)

–4°F to +77°F (–20°C to +25°C) (within a year)

CHARGING CAUTION

Charge the battery pack at least once every six months, even if it has been not used for a long period of time. The battery pack will have slowly self-discharged, even though it has not been used. If the battery pack is left for a long period without being charged, its life cycle will be shorter, or worse, it will never accept a charge again.

Due to the characteristics of the Li-ion rectangular battery, the battery pack may change its shape as the charge and discharge cycles are repeated. This is a normal phenomenon, and it is quite safe to continue to use the pack, as long as it is properly handled. However, when the shape of the battery pack is so changed that the battery pack or battery cover can not be correctly attached to

Page 39

MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

the transceiver, it is time to replace it with a new one. Otherwise, the transceiver can be damaged due to the loss of air tightness.

■ DANGER! NEVER charge the battery pack in areas with extremely high temperatures, such as near res or stoves, inside a sun-heated car, or in direct sunlight. In such environments, the safety/ protection circuit in the battery will activate, causing the battery to stop charging.

■ WARNING! DO NOT charge or leave the battery in the battery charger beyond the specied time for charging. If the battery is not completely charged by the specic time, stop charging and remove the battery from the battery charger. Continuing to charge the battery beyond the specic time limit may cause a re, overheating, or the battery may rupture.

■ WARNING! NEVER insert the transceiver (battery attached to the transceiver) into the charger if it is wet or soiled. This could corrode the battery charger terminals or damage the charger. The charger is not waterproof.

■ CAUTION: DO NOT charge the battery outside of the specied temperature range: +32°F to +113°F (±0°C to +45°C). Icom recommends charging the battery at +68°F (+20°C). The battery may heat up or rupture if charged out of the specied temperature range, and battery performance or battery life may be reduced.

Page 40

MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

WARRANTY STATEMENT

RCA Communications Systems warrants each new radio product it supplies to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service for the time period listed below, provided that the user has complied with the requirements stated herein.

The warranty period begins on the date of purchase from an Authorized RCA Communications Systems Sales and Service Outlet. This warranty is offered to the original end user and is not assignable or transferable. RCA Communications Systems is not responsible for any ancillary equipment which is attached to or used in conjunction with RCA Communications Systems products.

RCA Communications Systems offers to the original end user a Two (2) Year Limited Warranty on the RCA MR240

Radio Handset. The MR240TM Antenna, MR240TM Battery and the MR240TM Battery Charger are covered under a One (1) Year Limited Warranty. The MR240TM Belt Clip is not covered under the warranty.

During this period, if the product fails to function under normal use because of manufacturing defect(s) or workmanship, it should be returned to the Authorized RCA Communications Systems Sales and Service Outlet from which it was purchased. The Sales and Service Outlet will repair the product to full operating specications or replace the product with a new product of the same make and model. The user is responsible for all charges incurred in returning the product to the Authorized RCA Communications Systems Sales and Service Outlet. RCA Communications Systems will be responsible for all charges in returning the product to the end user via standard ground shipping service.

Page 41

MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

RCA Communications Systems shall have no obligation to repair or replace the product, if there is damage as a result of normal wear and tear or if the damage is caused in whole or in part by catastrophe, fault or negligence of the user, improper or unauthorized alterations or repairs to the product, incorrect wiring, use of the product in a manner for which it was not designed, or by causes external to the product. This warranty is void if the product serial number is altered, defaced

or removed.

THE EXPRESS WARRANTIES CONTAINED HEREIN ARE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

FOR ANY PRODUCT WHICH DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE WARRANTY SPECIFIED, THE SOLE REMEDY WILL BE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT. IN NO EVENT WILL RCA COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS BE LIABLE TO THE BUYER OR ITS CUSTOMERS FOR ANY DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, OR THE LOSS OF PROFIT, REVENUE OR DATA ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR THE INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCT.

RCA Communications Systems endeavors to achieve the accuracy and completeness of this manual, but is not liable for any possible omission and printing mistakes.

All the above specications and design are subject to change without prior notice.

All the reproduction and translation of this manual without authorization is prohibited.

Page 42

MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

In this manual, we strive to achieve accuracy and completeness, but provide no warranty of accuracy or reliability. All the above specications and design are subject to change without notice due to

continuous development.

No part of this manual may be copied, reproduced, translated, stored in a retrieval system, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, for any purpose without the expressed, written permission from RCA Communications Systems.

The end-user of any two-way radio is solely responsible for obtaining any license or other authorizations required by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). For further information visit www.fcc.gov or call 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322).

Page 43

MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

RF EXPOSURE COMPLIANCE AND CONTROL GUIDELINES AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

To control your exposure and ensure compliance with the occupational/controlled environment exposure limits always adhere to the following procedures.

Guidelines:

Do not remove the RF Exposure Label from the device.

User awareness instructions should accompany device when transferred to other users.

Do not use this device if the operational requirements described herein are not met.

Operating Instructions:

Transmit no more than the rated duty factor of 50% of the time. To transmit (talk), push the PushTo-Talk (PTT) button. To receive calls, release the PTT button.

Transmitting 50% of the time, or less, is important because this radio generates measurable RF energy exposure only when transmitting (in terms of measuring for standards compliance). Hold the radio in a vertical position in front of face with the microphone (and the other parts of the radio, including the antenna) at least one inch (2.5 cm) away from the nose. Keeping the radio at the proper distance is important because RF exposures decrease with distance from the antenna. Antenna should be kept away from eyes.

Page 44

MR240TM VHF Marine Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

When worn on the body, always place the radio in a approved clip, holder, holster, case, or body

harness for this product.

Using approved body-worn accessories is important because the use of or other manufacturer’s nonapproved accessories may result in exposure levels which exceed the FCC’s occupational/controlled environment RF exposure limits.

If you are not using a body-worn accessory and are not using the radio in the intended use position in front of the face, then ensure the antenna and the radio are kept at least one inch (2.5 cm) from the body when transmitting. Keeping the radio at the proper distance is important because RF exposure decreases when increasing distance from the antenna.

Use only RCA Communications Systems approved supplied or replacement antennas, batteries, and accessories. Use of third party antennas, batteries, and accessories may exceed the FCC RF exposure guidelines.

For Sales, Warranty and Customer Support please contact:

Discount Two-Way Radio Corporation – North American Distributor

555 W Victoria Street

Rancho Dominguez, CA 90220

Phone: 310-224-5100 / Fax: 310-224-5101

www.discounttwo-wayradio.com

RCA MR240 Instruction Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual