Submersible
DSC distress call automatically broadcasts lat/long and vessel ID
DSC position request function and NMEA data input/output
Latitude/Longitude and SOG/COG display
Channel name capability
Optional RAM+ second station remote microphone
Versatile user-programmable Scanning, Priority Scan and Dual Watch
NOAA Weather Alert
One-button access to Channel 16 and 9
Access to all US, Canadian and International channels
Big, back-lit display and keys
8
8
8 with GPS attached
GX1280SPage 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY/WARNING INFORMATION ................................................................ 4
FCC RADIO LICENSE INFORMATION ............................................................ 5
This radio is restricted to occupational use, work related operations only
where the radio operator must have the knowledge to control the exposure
conditions of its passengers and bystanders by maintaining the minimum
separation distance of 0.6 m (2 feet).
Failure to observe these restrictions will result in exceeding the FCC RF
exposure limits.
Antenna Installation:
The antenna must be located at least 0.6 m (2 feet) away from passengers
in order to comply with the FCC RF exposure requirements.
ON-LINE WARRANTY REGISTRATION
Please visit www.standardhorizon.com to register the MATRIX Marine
VHF. It should be noted that visiting the Web site from time to time may
be beneficial to you, as new products are released they will appear on
the STANDARD HORIZON Web site.
PRODUCT SUPPORT INQUIRIES
If you have any questions or comments regarding the use of the MATRIX, you can visit the STANDARD HORIZON Web site to send an E-
Mail or contact the Product Support team at 800-767-2450 M-F 7:005:00PST.
GX1280SPage 4
FCC RADIO LICENSE INFORMATION
Standard Horizon radios comply with the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Service.
STATION LICENSE
An FCC ship station license is no longer required for any vessel traveling in
U.S. waters (except Hawaii) which is under 20 meters in length. However,
any vessel required to carry a marine radio on an international voyage, carrying a HF single side band radiotelephone or marine satellite terminal is
required to have a ship station license. FCC license forms, including applications for ship (506) and land station licenses can be downloaded via the
Internet at
225-5322.
RADIO CALL SIGN
Currently the FCC does not require recreational boaters to have a Ship Radio
Station License. The USCG recommends the boats registration number and
the state to be used.
CANADIAN SHIP STATION LICENSING
You may need a license when traveling in Canada. If you do need a license
contact their nearest field office or regional office or write:
www.fcc.gov/forms. To obtain a form from the FCC, call (888)
Industry Canada
Radio Regulatory Branch
Attn: DOSP
300 Slater Street
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada, KIA 0C8
GX1280SPage 5
FCC NOTICE
NOTICE
Unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment may void compliance with FCC Rules. Any change or modification must be approved
in writing by STANDARD HORIZON.
NOTICE
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for
a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference
will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to
try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that
to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
GX1280SPage 6
GETTING STARTED
ABOUT VHF RADIO
The radio frequencies used in the VHF marine band lie between 156 and
158 MHz with some shore stations available between 161 and 163 MHz.
The marine VHF band provides communications over distances that are
essentially “line of sight” (VHF signals do not travel well through objects
such as buildings, hills or trees). Actual transmission range depends much
more on antenna type, gain and height than on the power output of the
transmitter. On a fixed mount 25W radio transmission expected distances
can be greater than 15 miles, for a portable 5W radio transmission the expected distance can be greater than 5 miles in “line of sight”.
SELECTING AN ANTENNA
Marine antennas are made to radiate signals equally in all horizontal directions, but not straight up. The objective of a marine antenna is to enhance
the signal toward the horizon. The degree to which this is accomplished is
called the antenna’s gain. It is measured in decibels (dB) and is one of the
major factors in choosing an antenna. In terms of effective radiated power
(ERP), antennas are rated on the basis of how much gain they have over a
theoretical antenna with zero gain. A 3 foot, 3dB gain antenna represents
twice as much gain over the imaginary antenna.
Typically a 3 foot 3dB gain stainless steel whip is used on a sailboat mast.
The longer 8 foot 6dB fiberglass whip is primarily used on power boats that
require the additional gain.
GX1280SPage 7
COAXIAL CABLE
VHF antennas are connected to the transceiver by means of a coaxial cable
– a shielded transmission line. Coaxial cable is specified by it’s diameter
and construction.
For runs less than 20 feet, RG-58/U, about 1/4 inch in diameter is a good
choice. For runs over 20 feet but less than 50 feet, the larger RG-8X or RG213/U should be used for cable runs over 50 feet RG-8X should be used.
For installation of the connector onto the coaxial cable refer to the figure
below.
1/16''
3/4''
1 1/8''
Adapter
3/4''
1/8''
5/8''3/8''
To get your coax cable through a fitting and into your boat’s interior, you
may have to cut off the end plug and reattach it later. You can do this if
you follow the directions that come with the connector. Be sure to make
good soldered connections.
GX1280SPage 8
1 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 INTRODUCTION
The STANDARD HORIZON MATRIX is a VHF/FM transceiver designed for
use in the frequency range of 156.025 to 163.275 MHz. The MATRIX can be
operated from 11 to 16 VDC and has a switchable RF output power of 1 watt
or 25 watts.
The MATRIX is capable of RTCM SC101 DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
operation and second station operation with the use of the improved optional RAM+ mic (CMP25 remote-control speaker/microphone with display).
The MATRIX operates on all currently-allocated marine channels which are
switchable for use with USA, International, or Canadian regulations. It has
an emergency channel 16 which can be immediately selected from any channel by pressing the red [16/9] key. NOAA Weather channels can also be
accessed immediately by pressing the [WX] key with channel selection.
Other features of the transceiver include: scanning, priority scanning, submersible speaker mic, high and low voltage warning, and GPS repeatability.
1.2 FCC / INDUSTRY CANADA INFORMATION
The following data pertaining to the transceiver is necessary to fill out the
license application.
Type Acceptance ....................................................................... FCC Part 80
Output Power ............................................. 1 Watt (low) and 25 Watts (high)
101S ........................................................................ Mini Extension Speaker
201S ..................................................................... White Extension Speaker
201SZ .............................................. White Flush Mount Extension Speaker
201SBK.................................................................. Black Extension Speaker
201SBKZ ......................................... Black Flush Mount Extension Speaker
GX1280SPage 10
4 INSTALLATION
4.1 LOCATION
The radio can be mounted at any angle. Choose a mounting location that:
• is far enough from any compass to avoid any deviation in compass
reading due to the speaker magnet
• provides accessibility to the front panel controls
• allows connection to a power source and an antenna
• has nearby space for installation of a microphone hanger
• the antenna must be mounted at least 3 feet from radio
Note: To insure the radio does not affect the compass or radios performance
is not affected by the antenna location, temporarily connect the radio in the
desired location and:
a.Examine the compass to see if the radio causes any deviation
b.Connect the antenna and key the radio. Check to ensure the radio is
operating correctly by requesting a radio check.
4.2 ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
CAUTION
Reverse polarity connections will damage the radio!
Connect the power cord and antenna to the radio. Antenna and Power Supply connections are as follows (see Figure 1):
Antenna
Red
Power Source
Water proof
Deck Outlet
Black
Fuse
Optional Speaker
Accessory Cable
GPS Navigation Receiver
Figure 1. General Installation
1. Mount the antenna at least 3 feet away from the radio. At the rear of the
radio, connect the antenna cable. It must have a PL259 connector. RG8/U coaxial cable must be used if the antenna is 25 feet or more from the
GX1280SPage 11
radio. RG58 cable can be used for distances less than 25 feet.
2. Connect the red power wire to a 13.8 VDC ±20% power source. Connect
the black power wire to a negative ground.
3. If an optional remote extension speaker is to be used, refer to section
3.3 for connections.
4. It is advisable to have a Certified Marine Technician check the power
output and the standing wave ratio of the antenna after installation.
4.3 ACCESSORY CABLE
White: External speaker (+)
Shield: External speaker (–)
Blue: NMEA IN (+) from GPS navigation receiver
Green: NMEA IN (–) from GPS navigation receiver
Gray: NMEA OUT (+) to GPS navigation receiver
Brown: Test port (for the Service Technician)
When connecting the external speaker or GPS navigation receiver, strip off
about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of the specified wire’s insulation, then splice the ends
together.
Gray
Green
Blue
Shield
White
Blue
Green
Brown
MATRIX
16/9
U.I.C
WX
SCAN
DW
NAV
MENU
CALL
H/L
SET
VOL/PWR
ICMEM
DISTRESS
PULL OPEN
SQL
Wire Color/Description
WHITE - External Speaker (+
SHILED - External Speaker
GREEN - NMEA Ground
BLUE- NMEA Input (+)
GRAY-NMEA Output (+)
Connection Examples
)
Connect to external 4 Ohm audio speaker
(–)
Connect to external 4 Ohm audio speaker
Connect to NMEA
(–)
connection of GPS
Connect to NMEA (+) output of GPS
Connect to NMEA (+) input of GPS
External Speaker
GX1280SPage 12
4.4 CONNECTION OF GPS WITH NMEA OUTPUT
Manufacturer/Model
STANDARD HORIZON
CP150, CP160 and
CP-170C
Furuno GP30, 36
Furuno GP1650, 1850
Garmin Fixed Mounts
Garmin Portables
JRC GPS500
JRC 100 SERIES
JRC 200 SERIES
Lowrance Fixed Mount
Wires
Green
Brown
White
Blue
White
Black
Blue
Black (GND)
Brown
Black (GND)
Yellow
Green
Green
Black
White
Black
White
Black (GND)
MATRIX
Green
Blue
Blue
Green
Blue
Green
Blue
Green
Blue
Green
Blue
Green
Blue
Green
Blue
Green
Blue
Green
Manufacturer/Model
Lowrance Portable
Magellan Fixed Mount
Magellan Portable
Northstar
Raytheon 420
Raytheon 520 / 620
Raytheon RL SERIES
Simrad
Sitex Neptune, Nautilus
Additional Information:
•The GPS must have the NMEA Output turned on and set to 4800 Baud
in the setup menu. If there is a selection for parity select none.
•For further information on interfacing /setting up your GPS. Please contact the manufacturer of the GPS receiver.
•MATRIX can read NMEA-0183 version 2.0 or higher.
•The NMEA supported sentences are:
• GLL, GGA, RMC and GNS (RMC sentence is recommended)
Wires
Orange
Black (GND)
Gray
Black (GND)
Orange
Black (GND)
Yellow
Black (GND)
Yellow
Brown
Blue
Brown
White
Brown
White
Brown
Gray
Brown
MATRIX
Blue
Green
Blue
Green
Blue
Green
Blue
Green
Blue
Green
Blue
Green
Blue
Green
Blue
Green
Blue
Green
If you have further inquires, please feel free to contact Product Support at:
Phone: (800) 767-2450
Email:
marinetech@vxstdusa.com
GX1280SPage 13
4.5 CHECKING GPS CONNECTIONS
After connections have been made between the MATRIX and the GPS, a
small satellite icon will appear on the top right corner of the LCD display. To
see additional GPS information press and hold the [H/L] (NAV) key until the
MATRIX shows the Date, Time, SOG and COG.
4.6 CHANGING THE GPS TIME
From the Factory the MATRIX shows GPS satellite time or UTC time. A time
offset is needed to offset this time to show the local time in your area.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appears.
2. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “TIME SET”
with the CHANNEL selector knob.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
4. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select time
offset from UTC. See illustration below to find your
offset time from UTC. If “0:00” is assigned, the time
is the same as UTC (Universal Time Coordinated
or GMT Greenwich Mean Time).
5. Press the [CALL/SET] key to store the time offset.
6. Press the [16/9] key or turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “EXIT,”
then press the [CALL/SET] key to return to the “RADIO SETUP” menu,
select “EXIT” and press the [CALL/SET] key to return to radio operation.
OFFSET TIME TABLE
GX1280SPage 14
4.7 CHANGING COG TO TRUE OR MAGNETIC
Allows customizing the NAV data showing GPS Course Over Ground (COG).
Factory default is True however following the steps below the COG can be
changed to Magnetic.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appears.
2. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “TRUE
MAG” in the “RADIO SETUP” menu with the
CHANNEL selector knob.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
4. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “MAGNETIC” or “TRUE.”
5. Press the [CALL/SET] key to store the selected
setting.
6. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “EXIT,”
then press the [CALL/SET] key to return to the “RADIO SETUP” menu,
select “EXIT” and press the [CALL/SET] key to return to radio operation.
GX1280SPage 15
4.8 OPTIONAL MMB-84 FLUSH MOUNT INSTALLATION
1. Make a rectangular template for the flush mount measuring 2-5/8” H x
6-5/8” W.
2. Use the template to mark the location where the rectangular hole is to be
cut. Confirm the space behind the dash or panel is deep enough to accommodate the transceiver (at least 6 inches deep).
There should be at least 1/2 inch between the transceiver’s heatsink and
any wiring, cables or structures.
3. Cut out the rectangular hole and insert the transceiver.
4. Fasten the brackets to the sides of the transceiver with the lock washer
nut combination; so that the mounting screw base faces the mounting
surface (see Figure 2).
5. Turn the adjusting screw to adjust the tension so that the transceiver is
tight against the mounting surface.
Bracket
Adjusting Screw
Lock-washer nut combination
Figure 2. MMB-84 Flush Mount Instllation
GX1280SPage 16
4.9 OPTIONAL CMP25 RAM+ MIC INSTALLATION
1. Connect the RAM+ MIC Cable to the RAM MIC CONNECTOR on the
rear panel, then tighten the Cable Nut (See Figure 3).
2. Referring to Figure 3, make a 1.2” (30 mm) hole in the wall, then insert
the RAM+ MIC Cable into this hole. Connect the Gasket and Mount Base
to the RAM+ MIC Cable Connector using the Nut.
3. Drill the four Screw holes (approx. 2 mm) on the wall, then install the
Mounting Base to the wall using four screws.
4. Put the Rubber Cap on to the Nut. The installation is now completed.
Wall
RAM MIC Cable
Mounting Bracket
Gasket
Cap
Nut
Figure 3. CMP25 RAM+ MIC Instllation
GX1280SPage 17
5 CONTROLS AND INDICATORS
NOTE
This section defines each control of the transceiver. See Figure 4 for
location of controls. For detailed operating instructions refer to chapter
6 of this manual.
5.1 CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS
POWER SWITCH/VOLUME CONTROL
Turns the transceiver on and off as well as adjusts the audio volume. To
turn the transceiver on press and hold this knob until the LCD turns on.
To turn it off, press and hold this knob until the LCD turns off. When the
power is turned on, the transceiver is set to the last selected channel.
Secondary Use
When the transceiver is turned on while the [SCAN] and [WX] keys are
held down, the internal microprocessor is reset. This clears the memory
and all user-programmed settings, such as scan memory, and priority
scan assignments. This condition is known as the default condition, the
same as when shipped from the factory. For a list of these defaults, see
the section 6.18 Resetting the Transceiver’s Microprocessor.
NOTE
Resetting the microprocess will not erase the DSC MMSI and the
Individual Directory Call information.
SQUELCH CONTROL (SQL
Adjusting this control clockwise, sets the point at which random noise on
the channel does not activate the audio circuits but a received signal
does. This point is called the squelch threshold. Further adjustment of
the squelch control will degrade reception of wanted transmissions.
CHANNEL SELECTOR KNOB
Rotary knob used to select channels and to choose menu items (such
as the DSC menu, radio setup and DSC setup menu). The [UP()] /
[
DOWN()] key on the microphone can also be used to select channels
and menu items.
Secondary Use
While holding down the [SCAN] Key and turning the CHANNEL selector
knob, you can confirm memory channels for scanning.
)
GX1280SPage 18
MATRIX
16/9
VOL/PWR
U.I.C
WX
SCAN
H/L
ICMEM
DW
DISTRESS
MENU
NAV
CALL
SET
PULL OPEN
SQL
Figure 4. Controls and Connectors
GX1280SPage 19
KEYPAD
[
16/9] Key
Immediately recalls channel 16 from any channel location. Holding down
this key recalls channel 9. Pressing the [16/9] key again reverts to the
previous selected working channel.
Secondary use
Press and hold the [16/9] key then press the [WX] key to switch between
USA, International and Canadian bands.
[WX]
Key
Immediately recalls the previously selected NOAA weather channel from
any channel.
Secondary use
1. Holding down the [16/9] key while pressing the [WX] key changes
the mode from USA to International or Canadian.
2. Holding down the [WX] and [SCAN] key while turning the power on
resets the microprocessor and erases scan channels from memory.
This clears the memory and establishes the factory-set defaults. For
a list of these defaults, see the section on 6.19 Resetting the
Transceiver’s Microprocessor.
[
SCAN] / [MEM]Key
1. Starts and stops scanning of programmed channels.
2. If held while the [UP()] or [DOWN()] key on the microphone are
pressed or CHANNEL selector knob on radio is turned, the radio will
show the channels programmed in scan memory. This function will
not work if the unit is scanning.
NOTE: The priority channel is channel 16 only.
3. Pressing and holding again will delete the channel from scan memory.
[
H/L] / [NAV] Key
Toggles between 25 W (High) and 1 W (Low) power. When the [H/L] key is
pressed while the transceiver is on channel 13 or 67, the power will temporarily switch from LO to HI power until the PTT is released. The [H/L] key
does not function on transmit inhibited and low power only channels.
Secondary use
Press and hold [H/L] key, the LCD displays NAV GPS Data, Time, SOG
(Speed Over Ground), and COG (Course Over Ground) when a GPS is
connected to the accessory cable of the MATRIX. See section 4.4 CON-
NECTION OF GPS WITH NMEA OUTPUT.
GX1280SPage 20
[DW] / [IC]
Key
Scans for voice communications on CH16 and another selected channel until a signal is received on either channel. (Dual watch)
NOTE: When the DSC SCANNING feature is enabled (see section 7.2
DSC SCAN), the radio watches for a transmission on CH16, another
selected channel, and CH70 until a signal is received (Triple watch).
Secondary use
Press and hold [DW] key, when the optional RAM+ Mic is connected,
intercom operation will operate between radio and RAM+ Mic.
[
CALL/SET] / [MENU] Key
The [CALL/SET] key functions as the enter key.
Secondary use
Press the [CALL/SET] key to access the DSC OPERATION menu. The
“INDIVIDUAL CALL,” “GROUP CALL,” “ALL SHIPS CALL,” “POSITION
REQUEST,” “POSITION SEND,” “STANDBY MODE,” and “CALL WAITING” functions can be accessed from the DSC OPERATION menu.
Press and hold the [CALL/SET] key to access the RADIO SETUP or
DSC SETUP menu. The following functions can be accessed in the menu
(refer to Section7).
RADIO SETUP-menuDSC SETUP-menu
[
DISTRESS] Key
Used to send a DSC Distress Call. To send the distress call refer to
section 7.5.1 (Transmitting A DSC Distress Call).
RAM MIC CONNECTOR
Connects the MATRIX to the enhanced RAM+ MIC (Remote Access Mi-
crophone). Refer to section 9 RAM+ MIC OPERATION.
GX1280SPage 21
ACCESSORY CONNECTION CABLE
Connects the MATRIX to a GPS, and an external speaker. See section 3
OPTIONS for a list of speakers STANDARD HORIZON offers.
DC INPUT CABLE
Connects the radio to a DC power supply capable of delivering 12V DC.
ANTENNA JACK
Connects an antenna to the transceiver. Use a marine VHF antenna with
an impedance of 50 ohms.
PTT (Push-To-Talk) SWITCH
Keys the transmitter when the transceiver is in radio mode. If the transceiver is in the intercom operation mode (between the RAM+ and the
MATRIX), it activates the MATRIX microphone for voice communications.
MICROPHONE
Transmits the voice message with reduction of background noise.
MICROPHONE SPEAKER
The same audio heard through internal radio speaker is heard through
microphone speaker.
[UP()]
/ [DOWN()] KEYS
The [UP()] and [DOWN()] on the microphone function the same as
the CHANNEL selector knob on the front panel of the transceiver.
[
16/9] Key
Pressing the [16/9] key immediately recalls channel 16 from any location. Press and hold the [16/9] key to recall channel 9. Pressing the
[
16/9] key again will revert the radio to the previous selected channel.
GX1280SPage 22
6 BASIC OPERATION
6.1 RECEPTION
1. After the transceiver has been installed, ensure that the power supply
and antenna are properly connected.
2. Press and hold the VOL/PWR knob until the radio turns on.
3. Turn the SQL knob fully counterclockwise. This state is known as “squelch
off”.
4. Turn up the VOL/PWR knob until noise or audio from the speaker is at a
comfortable level.
5. Turn the SQL knob clockwise until the random noise disappears. This
state is known as the “squelch threshold.”
6. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select the desired channel. Refer
to the channel chart on page 62 for available channels.
7. When a message is received, adjust the volume to the desired listening
level. The “BUSY” indicator in the LCD is displayed indicating that the
channel is being used.
6.2 TRANSMISSION
1. Perform steps 1 through 6 of RECEPTION.
2. Before transmitting, monitor the channel to ensure it is clear.
THIS IS AN FCC REQUIREMENT!
3. Press the PTT (push-to-talk) switch. The “TX” indicator on the LCD is
displayed.
4. Speak slowly and clearly into the microphone.
5. When the transmission is finished, release the PTT switch.
NOTE
This is a noise-canceling microphone. The oval slot on the bottom of
microphone should be positioned within 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the mouth
for optimum performance.
6.3 TRANSMIT TIME - OUT TIMER (TOT)
When the PTT switch on the microphone is held down, transmit time is limited
to 5 minutes. This limits unintentional transmissions due to a stuck microphone. About 10 seconds before automatic transmitter shutdown, a warning
beep will be heard from the speaker(s). The transceiver will automatically go
to receive mode, even if the PTT switch is continually held down. Before transmitting again, the PTT switch must first be released and then pressed again.
GX1280SPage 23
6.4 SIMPLEX/DUPLEX CHANNEL USE
Refer to the VHF MARINE CHANNEL CHART (page 63) for instructions on
use of simplex and duplex channels.
NOTE
All channels are factory-programmed in accordance with FCC (USA),
Industry Canada (Canada), and International regulations. Mode of operation cannot be altered from simplex to duplex or vice-versa.
6.5 USA, CANADA, AND INTERNATIONAL MODE
1. To change the modes, hold the [16/9] key and press the [WX] key. The
mode changes from USA to International to Canadian with each press of
the [WX] key.
2. “USA” will be displayed on the LCD for USA mode, “INTL” will be displayed for International mode, and “CAN” will be displayed for Canadian
mode.
3. Refer to the VHF MARINE CHANNEL CHART (page 63) for allocated
channels in each mode.
6.6 NOAA WEATHER CHANNELS
1. To receive a NOAA weather channel, press the [WX] key from any channel. The transceiver will go to the last selected weather channel.
2. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob on the radio or [UP()] / [DOWN(
keys on the microphone to select a different NOAA weather channel.
3. To exit from the NOAA weather channels, press the [WX] key. The transceiver returns to the channel it was on prior to a weather channel.
)]
GX1280SPage 24
6.7 NOAA WEATHER ALERT
In the event of extreme weather disturbances, such as storms and hurricanes, the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) sends
a weather alert accompanied by a 1050 Hz tone and subsequent weather
report on one of the NOAA weather channels. When the Weather Alert feature is enabled (see section 8.5 WX ALERT), the transceiver is capable of
receiving this alert if the following is performed:
1. Program NOAA weather channels into the transceiver’s memory for scanning. Follow the same procedure as for regular channels under section
6.15.
2. Press the [SCAN] key once to start memory scanning or hold down the
[
SCAN] key during memory scanning to start priority scanning.
3. The programmed NOAA weather channels will be scanned along with
the regular-programmed channels. However, scanning will not stop on a
normal weather broadcast unless a NOAA alert is received.
4. When an alert is received on a NOAA weather channel, scanning will
stop and the transceiver will emit a loud beep to alert the user of a NOAA
broadcast.
5. Press the [WX] key to stop the alert tone and receive the weather report.
NOTE
If the [WX] key is not pressed the alert tone will be emitted for 5 minutes
and then the weather report will be received.
NOTE
The Weather Alert feature is also engaged while the transceiver is receiving on one of the NOAA weather channels.
6.8 NOAA WEATHER ALERT TESTING
In the event of a major storm or other appreciable weather condition requiring vessels at sea or other bodies of water to be notified, the NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) broadcasts a 1050
Hz tone that some marine VHF radios can detect. (Refer to Section 6.7
“NOAA WEATER ALERT” on how to use this feature.) This tone, when detected, will produce a loud beep from the radio speaker to signal that a
weather alert is being broadcast.
In order to test this system, the NOAA broadcasts the 1050 Hz tone every
Wednesday, sometime between 11 AM and 1 PM.
GX1280SPage 25
6.9 EMERGENCY (CHANNEL 16 USE)
Channel 16 is known as the Hail and Distress Channel. An emergency may
be defined as a threat to life or property. In such instances, be sure the
transceiver is on and set to CHANNEL 16. Then use the following procedure:
1. Press the microphone push-to-talk switch and say “Mayday, Mayday,Mayday. This is
2. Then repeat once: “Mayday,
3. Now report your position in latitude/longitude, or by giving a true or magnetic bearing (state which) to a well-known landmark such as a navigation aid or geographic feature such as an island or harbor entry.
4. Explain the nature of your distress (sinking, collision, aground, fire, heart
attack, life-threatening injury, etc.).
5. State the kind of assistance your desire (pumps, medical aid, etc.).
6. Report the number of persons aboard and condition of any injured.
7. Estimate the present seaworthiness and condition of your vessel.
8. Give your vessel’s description: length, design (power or sail), color and
other distinguishing marks. The total transmission should not exceed 1
minute.
9. End the message by saying “OVER”. Release the microphone button
and listen.
10.If there is no answer, repeat the above procedure. If there is still no
response, try another channel.
, , ” (your vessel’s name).
” (your vessel’s name).
6.10 CALLING ANOTHER VESSEL (CHANNEL 16 OR 9)
Channel 16 may be used for initial contact (hailing) with another vessel.
However, its most important use is for emergency messages. This channel
must be monitored at all times except when actually using another channel.
It is monitored by the U.S. and Canadian Coast Guards and by other vessels. Use of channel 16 for hailing must be limited to initial contactonly. Calling should not exceed 30 seconds, but may be repeated 3 times at
2-minute intervals. In areas of heavy radio traffic, congestion on channel 16
resulting from its use as a hailing channel can be reduced significantly in
U.S. waters by using channel 9 as the initial contact (hailing) channel for
non-emergency communications. Here, also, calling time should not exceed
30 seconds but may be repeated 3 times at 2-minute intervals.
Prior to making contact with another vessel, refer to the channel charts in
this manual, and select an appropriate channel for communications after
initial contact. For example, Channels 68 and 69 of the U.S. VHF Charts are
GX1280SPage 26
some of the channels available to non-commercial (recreational) boaters.
Monitor your desired channel in advance to make sure you will not be interrupting other traffic, and then go back to either channel 16 or 9 for your initial
contact.
When the hailing channel (16 or 9) is clear, state the name of the other
vessel you wish to call and then “this is” followed by the name of your
vessel and your Station License (Call Sign). When the other vessel returns
your call, immediately request another channel by saying “go to,” the number of the other channel, and “over.” Then switch to the new channel. When
the new channel is not busy, call the other vessel.
After a transmission, say “over,” and release the microphone’s push-to-talk
(PTT) switch. When all communication with the other vessel is completed,
end the last transmission by stating your Call Sign and the word “out.” Note
that it is not necessary to state your Call Sign with each transmission, only
at the beginning and end of the contact.
Remember to return to Channel 16 when not using another channel. Some
radios automatically monitor Channel 16 even when set to other channels
or when scanning.
6.11 MAKING TELEPHONE CALLS
To make a radiotelephone call, use a channel designated for this purpose,
The fastest way to learn which channels are used for radiotelephone traffic
is to ask at a local marina. Channels available for such traffic are designated
Public Correspondence channels on the channel charts in this manual.
Some examples for USA use are Channels 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 84, 85, 86,
and 87. Call the marine operator and identify yourself by your vessel’s name,
The marine operator will then ask you how you will pay for the call (telephone credit card, collect, etc.) and then link your radio transmission to the
telephone lines.
The marine telephone company managing the VHF channel you are using
may charge a link-up fee in addition to the cost of the call.
6.12 OPERATING ON CHANNELS 13 AND 67
Channel 13 is used at docks and bridges and by vessels maneuvering in
port. Messages on this channel must concern navigation only, such as meeting and passing in restricted waters.
Channel 67 is used for navigational traffic between vessels.
GX1280SPage 27
By regulation, power is normally limited to 1 Watt on these channels. Your
radio is programmed to automatically reduce power to this limit on these
channels. However, in certain situations it may be necessary to temporarily
use a higher power. See page 20 (H/L key) for means to temporarily override the low-power limit on these two channels.
6.13 PROHIBITED COMMUNICATIONS
The FCC prohibits the following communications:
• False distress or emergency messages:
• Messages to “any boat” except in emergencies and radio tests;
• Messages to or from a vessel on land;
• Transmission while on land;
• Obscene, indecent, or profane language (potential fine of $10,000).
6.14 DUAL WATCH (TO CH16)
1. Adjust the SQL knob until the background noise disappears.
2. Select the channel you wish to dual watch to Ch16.
3. Press the [DW] key. The display will scan between CH16 and the channel that was selected in step 2.
If a transmission is received on the channel selected in step 2, the MATRIX will dual watch to
Ch16.
4. To stop Dual Watch press the [DW] key again.
6.15 MEMORY SCANNING (M-SCAN
NOTE
During scanning, the dot matrix area of the LCD will show “M-SCAN” or
“P-SCAN” depending on the scan mode selected.
1. Adjust the SQL knob until background noise disappears.
2. Select a desired channel to be scanned using the
CHANNEL selector knob. Press and hold the
[
SCAN] key, “MEM” will appear on the LCD which
indicates the channel has been programmed into
the transceivers memory.
3. Repeat step 2 for all the desired channels to be scanned.
4. To DELETE a channel from the transceiver’s memory, select the channel then press and hold the [SCAN] key, “MEM” will disappear in the
LCD.
)
GX1280SPage 28
5. To start scanning, press the [SCAN] key. Scanning will proceed from the lowest to the highest
programmed channel number and will stop on a
channel when a transmission is received.
6. The channel number will blink during reception.
7. To stop scanning, press the [SCAN], [16/9], [WX], [CALL/SET], or PTT
key.
6.16 PRIORITY SCANNING (P-SCAN
)
1. Channel 16 is set as the priority channel and cannot be changed.
2. To select priority scanning, press the [SCAN] key
to start memory scanning (“M-SCAN” will appears),
then press and hold down the [SCAN] key until
“P-SCAN” appears on the LCD. Scanning will proceed between the memorized channels and the priority channel. CH 16
the priority channel will be scanned after each programmed channel.
MEM CH.CH. 16
CH. 70MEM CH.CH. 16
CH. 70
3. To stop scanning, press the [SCAN], [16/9], [WX],
[
CALL/SET], or PTT key.
NOTE
Triple watch (T/W) means the radio is watching CH70 for DSC Calls.
Dual watch (D/W) means the radio is not watching CH70 for DSC Calls.
6.17 NAVIGATION INDICATION
The transceiver has the ability to display the time, SOG and COG date, as
well as the vessel’s position (LAT/LON), when connected to a GPS receiver.
1. Press and hold the [H/L] key to display position
information. If the GPS receiver is not receiving a
fix, the display will be as shown in the illustration
on the right.
2. To hide the position information, press the [H/L
key.
]
GX1280SPage 29
6.18 VOICE SCRAMBLER
If privacy of communications is desired, a CVS2500 voice scrambler (VS)
can be installed in the transceiver. Contact your Dealer to have a CVS2500
installed. Refer to the section 8.9 VOICE SCRAMBLER to program the voice
scrambler.
1. Turn on the transceiver.
2. Select a channel that was programmed for scrambler mode (“VS” will appear on the LCD).
If a channel is not set for the voice scrambler,
the display will be as shown in the illustration at
the right (“VS” will disappear from the LCD).
If a voice scrambler is canceled temporarily in
the “SETUP” menu, the display will be as shown
in the illustration at the right.
3. Monitor the channel before transmitting.
4. Transmit the voice message. The signal sent will
be scrambled.
6.19 RESETTING THE TRANSCEIVER’S MICROPROCESSOR
Resetting the microprocessor restores the initial, factory supplied conditions
in the transceiver. These are called the default conditions.
To reset the microprocessor, first turn the transceiver off. Then while pressing the [WX] and [SCAN] keys, turn the transceiver on. The default conditions are:
No channels in the SCAN memory.
Channel 16 will be selected when the transceiver is turned on.
WX channel 01 will be recalled when the [WX] key is pressed.
Key beep will be on.
NOTE
Resetting the microprocessor will not erase DSC MMSI and Directory
Call Waiting information.
GX1280SPage 30
7 DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING
7.1 GENERAL
WARNING
This radio is designed to generate a digital maritime distress and safety
call to facilitate search and rescue. To be effective as a safety device,
this equipment must be used only within communication range of a shorebased VHF marine channel 70 distress and safety watch system. The
range of signal may vary but under normal conditions should be approximately 20 nautical miles.
Digital Selective Calling is a semi-automated method of establishing a radio
call, it has been designated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO)
as an international standard for establishing VHF, MF and HF radio calls. It
has also been designated as part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety
System (GMDSS). It is planned that DSC will eventually replace aural watches
on distress frequencies and will be used to announce routine and urgent
maritime safety information broadcasts.
This new system allows mariners to instantly send a distress call with GPS
position (when connected to the transceiver) to the US Coast Guard and
other vessels within range of the transmission. DSC will also allow mariners
to initiate or receive Distress, Urgency, Safety, Routine, POSITION REQUEST, POSITION SEND, and Group calls to or from another vessel
equipped with a DSC transceiver.
7.2 DSC SCAN
When the radio is shipped from the factory it is programmed so CH70 (the
DSC channel) is scanned at all times. A selection is provided in the SETUP
MENU to disable the DSC SCAN. Turning off DSC SCAN will disable the
radio from receiving DSC calls (i.e.: Distress Call, Individual Call, All Ships
Call, and Position Requests). If you want to use any of the functions the
selection must be left ON.
To Change DSC SCAN Method:
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appears.
2. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “DSC
SETUP” menu.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “DSC
GX1280SPage 31
SCAN” with the CHANNEL selector knob.
4. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
5. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “ON”or
“OFF.”
6. Press the [CALL/SET] key to store the selected
setting.
7. To exit this menu and return to radio operation
mode press the [16/9] key.
7.3 USCG DSC WATCH
The USCG has plans to upgrade its VHF National Distress System (expected
by 2005), so at the time of printing only larger vessels that are required to
carry VHF DSC radios will be able to hear your distress transmission.
7.3.1 Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI
What is an MMSI?
An MMSI is a nine digit number used on Marine Transceivers capable of using
Digital Selective Calling (DSC). This number is used like a telephone number
to selectively call other vessels.
THIS NUMBER MUST BE PROGRAMMED INTO THE RADIO TO OPERATE THE MATRIX DSC FUCTIONS.
How can I obtain an MMSI assignment?
Boat US offers free MMSI numbers. Visit the following to register:
http://www.boatus.com/mmsi/.
)
7.3.2 Programming the MMSI
NOTE
User MMSI can be input only twice. If the user tries to input MMSI more
than twice, the radio will show the display on the right. If the user needs
to change the MMSI more than twice, the transceiver will have to be
sent to Factory Service. Refer to the section 10.2 FACTORY SERVICE.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
the “RADIO SETUP” menu appears.
2. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to the left to
select “DSC SETUP” menu.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “USER
MMSI” with the CHANNEL selector knob.
4. Press the [CALL/SET] key. The “User MMSI” num-
GX1280SPage 32
ber will appear, and the first space will flash.
5. Select first number of your MMSI, then press the
[
CALL/SET] key to step to the next number.
6. Repeat step 5 to set your MMSI (up to nine digits).
7. When finished programming the number, press
and hold the [CALL/SET] key to store the number
in memory.
8. To exit this menu and return to radio operation mode press the [16/9] key.
7.4 ADDITIONAL DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING INFORMATION
For additional information the USCG has an excellent site that should be
visited at
www.navcen.uscg.mil/marcoms/gmdss/dsc.html.
7.5 DSC DISTRESS CALL
The MATRIX is capable of transmitting and receiving DSC Distress messages to all DSC radios. The MATRIX may be connected to a GPS to also
transmit the Latitude, Longitude of the vessel.
7.5.1 Transmitting A DSC Distress Call
NOTE
To be able to transmit a DSC distress call a MMSI number must be
programmed, refer to section 7.3.2 Programming the MMSI
In order for your ships location to be transmitted a GPS must be connected
to the MATRIX, refer to section 4.4 CONNECTION OF GPS WITH NMEA
OUTPUT
1. Lift the red spring loaded DISTRESS cover and
press the [DISTRESS] key. The “DISTRESS” menu
will appear on the LCD.
2. Press and hold the [DISTRESS] key. The radios
display will count down (3-2-1) and then transmit
the Distress call.
3. When the distress signal is sent, CH70 and “TX”
icon will appear on the LCD. After the message
has been sent, the radio will sound a Distress
Alarm.
4. The transceiver “shadow-watches” for a transmission between CH16 and CH70 until an acknowledgment signal is received. “DISTRESS” and “WAITING” will appear on the LCD.
GX1280SPage 33
5. If an acknowledgement is received, select channel 16 and advise your distress situation.
6. If no acknowledgment is received, the distress call
is repeated in 4 minute intervals until an acknowledgment is received.
7. When a DSC Distress acknowledgment is received, a distress alarm sounds and channel 16
is automatically selected. The LCD shows the MMSI of the ship responding to your distress.
RECEIVED ACK: acknowledgment signal is received.
RECEIVED RLY: relay signal is received from another vessel or coast
station.
8. To cancel the DSC distress alarm signal from the speaker, press any
key.
Cancel a DSC Distress Call
If a DSC Distress call was sent by error the MATRIX allows you to send a
message to other vessels to cancel the Distress Call that was made in error.
Press the [CALL/SET] key, turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “CANCEL.” Then, press the [CALL/SET] key or turn off the radio.
7.5.2 Receiving a DSC Distress Call
1. A distress call is received. An emergency alarm
sounds.
Then channel 16 is automatically selected.
2. Press any key to stop the alarm.
3. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to change the
display to show the position of the vessel in distress.
4 If the position of the vessel distress data does not
include position, the LCD will show the display on
the left.
NOTE
You must continue monitoring channel 16 as a coast station may require assistance in the rescue attempt.
GX1280SPage 34
7.6 ALL SHIPS CALL
The All Ships Call function allows contact to be established with other vessel
stations without having their ID in the individual calling directory. Also, priority for the call can be designated as Urgency or Safety.
URGENCY Call: This type of call is used when a vessel may not truly be in
distress, but have a potential problem that may lead to a
distress situation. This call is the same as saying PAN PAN
PAN on channel 16.
SAFETY Call:Used to transmit boating safety information to other ves-
sels. This message usually contains information about an
overdue boat, debris in the water. Loss of a navigation aid
or an important meteorological message. This call is the
same as saying Securite” Securite” Securite’.
7.6.1 Transmitting an All Ships Call
1. Press the [CALL/SET] key. The “DSC OPERATION” menu will appear.
2. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “ALL
SHIPS.”
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key. (To cancel, turn the
CHANNEL selector knob to select “EXIT.”)
5. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select the
nature of call (“URGENCY” or “SAFETY”).
6. Press the [CALL/SET] key to transmit the selected
type of all ships DSC call.
7. After the ALL SHIPS CALL is transmitted, the transceiver will switch to CH16.
8. Listen to the channel to make sure it is not busy,
then key the microphone and say PAN PAN PAN
or Securite” Securite” Securite depending on the
priority of the call. Then announce your call sign
and announce the channel you wish to switch to
for communications.
GX1280SPage 35
7.6.2 Receiving an All Ships Call
1. When an all ships call is received, an emergency
alarm sounds.
The radio will automatically change to channel 16.
2. Press any key to stop the alarm.
3. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to see the MMSI
of the vessel transmitting the All Ships Call.
4. Monitor channel 16 or traffic channel until the URGENCY voice communication is completed.
7.7 INDIVIDUAL CALL
This feature allows the MATRIX to contact another vessel with a DSC VHF
radio and automatically switch the receiving radio to a desired communications channel. This feature is similar to calling a vessel on CH16 and requesting to go to another channel (switching to the channel is private between the two stations).
7.7.1 Setting up the Individual / Position Call Directory
The MATRIX has a DSC directory that allows you to store a vessel or person
names and the MMSI number associated with vessels you wish to transmit
Individual calls, Position Requests and Position Send transmissions.
To transmit an Individual call you must program this directory with information of the persons you wish to call, similar to a cellular phones telephone
directory.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appears.
2. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “DSC
SETUP” menu.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “INDIV DIR”
with the CHANNEL selector knob.
4. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “ADD” with
the CHANNEL selector knob.
5. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
6. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to scroll through
the first letter of the name of the vessel or person
you want to reference in the directory.
7. Press the [CALL/SET] key to store the first letter
in the name and step to the next letter to the right.
GX1280SPage 36
8. Repeat step 6 and 7 until the name is complete.
The name can consist of up to eleven characters,
if you do not use all eleven characters press the
[
CALL/SET] key to move to the next space. This
method can also be used to enter a blank space in the name. To clear
the previous letter, press the [H/L] key.
9. After the eleventh letter or space has been entered, press the [CALL/
SET] key to advance to the MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity Num-
ber) number entry.
10. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to scroll through numbers, 0-9. To
enter the desired number and move one space to
the right press the [CALL/SET] key. Repeat this
procedure until all nine space of the MMSI number are entered.
11. If a mistake was made entering in the name or the MMSI number repeat
pressing the [CALL/SET] key until the wrong character is selected, then
move the channel knob to correct the entry.
12. To store the data entered, press and hold the [CALL/SET] key.
13. To enter another individual address, repeat steps 4 through 13.
14. To exit this menu and return to radio operation mode press the [16/9] key.
NOTE
Selecting “NEXT” or “EXIT” will automatically save the name and MMSI
number into memory.
7.7.2 Setting up Individual Reply
Allows setting up the radio to automatically (default setting) or manually
respond to a DSC Individual call requesting you to switch to a working channel for voice communications. When Manual is selected the MMSI of the
calling vessel is shown allowing you to see who is calling. This function is
similar to caller id on a cellular phone.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appears.
2. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “DSC
SETUP” menu.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “INDIV
REPLY” with the CHANNEL selector knob.
4. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
GX1280SPage 37
5. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “AUTO”
or “MANUAL.”
6. Press the [CALL/SET] key to store the selected
setting.
7. To exit this menu and return to radio operation
mode press the [16/9] key.
7.7.3 Setting up Individual Call Ringer
When a Individual call is received the radio will produce a ringing tone for 3
minutes. This selection allows the Individual Call ringer time to be changed.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appear.
2. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “DSC
SETUP” menu.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “INDIV
RING” with the CHANNEL selector knob.
4. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
5. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select ringing time of a Individual Call.
6. Press the [CALL/SET] key to store the selected
setting.
7. To exit this menu and return to radio operation
mode press the [16/9] key.
GX1280SPage 38
7.7.4 Transmitting an Individual Call
This feature allows the user to contact another vessel with a DSC radio. This
feature is similar to calling a vessel on CH16 and requesting to go to another channel. Select the traffic channel for voice communication.
1. Press the [CALL/SET] key. The “DSC OPERATION” menu will appear.
2. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “INDIVIDUAL.” (To cancel, select “EXIT” with the CHAN-NEL selector knob or press the [16/9] key.)
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key. The transceiver will
beep, and the “Individual directory” will appear.
4. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select the
“Individual” you want to contact.
5. Press the [CALL/SET] key to transmit the individual DSC signal.
6. After INDIVIDUAL CALL is transmitted, the transceiver will wait 8 seconds for the acknowledgment.
If the reply signal is not received, the transceiver
will transmit again.
7. After the second INDIVIDUAL CALL is transmitted, if the reply signal is not received, the dot matrix area of the LCD will display “SEND” to prompt
the user to send the call again or exit the mode.
8. When an individual call acknowledgment is received, the established channel is automatically
selected and a ringing tone sounds.
9. Press the [CALL/SET] key to listen to the channel
to make sure it is not busy, then key the microphone and call the other vessel you desire to communicate with.
GX1280SPage 39
7.7.5 Receiving an Individual Call
When receiving an individual call, an acknowledgment must be sent back to
the calling station. The MATRIX default setting is Automatic, but has a selec-
tion that allows you to manually send a reply before the radio will switch to the
requested calling channel. This selection is useful if you want to see who is
calling and requesting you to switch to a channel for communications, similar
to caller id on a cellular phone.
1. When an individual call is received, an individual
call ringing alarm sounds.
The radio automatically (automatic mode selected)
switches to the requested channel.
2. Press any key to stop the alarm.
3. Press the PTT on the mic and talk to the calling
ship.
4. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to see the MMSI of the vessel calling.
7.7.6 Setting Up the Call Waiting Function
Allows the MATRIX to be setup to reply (ABLE) or set the radio so it transmits a call that advises to the vessel the person is UNABLE to reply to the
call at this time. This function is similar to a answering machine. When set
up in UNABLE and a individual call is received the Individual call from the
other vessel is logged in the CALL WAITING directory for you to review and
call back at a later time.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appears.
2. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “DSC
SETUP” menu.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “INDIV
ACK” with the CHANNEL selector knob.
4. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
5. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “ABLE”
or “UNABLE.”
6. Press the [CALL/SET] key to store the selected
setting.
7. To exit this menu and return to radio operation
mode press the [16/9] key.
GX1280SPage 40
7.8 ADVANCED DSC CALLS
7.8.1 Group Call
This feature allows the user to contact a group of specific vessels (example
members of a yacht club) using DSC radios with Group call function to automatically switch to a desired channel for voice communications.
7.8.1.1 Setup a Group Call
For this function to operate the same Group MMSI must be programmed
into all the DSC VHF radios within the group of vessels that will be using this
feature. The group MMSI is a 9 digit (first digit permanently set to “0”) that
will allow other radios to call your vessel along with others to automatically
switch to a working channel for voice communications. This function is very
useful for yacht clubs and vessels traveling together that want to collectively
make announcements on a predetermined channel.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appears.
2. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “DSC
SETUP” menu.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “GROUP
DIR” with the CHANNEL selector knob.
4. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “ADD” with
the CHANNEL selector knob.
5. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
6. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to scroll through
the first letter of the name of the group you want to
reference in the directory.
7. Press the [CALL/SET] key to store the first letter
in the name. Press the [CALL/SET] key to move
the cursor one space to the right.
8. Repeat step 6 and 7 until the name is complete. The name can consist
of up to eleven characters, if you do not use all eleven characters press
the [CALL/SET] key to move to the next space.
This method can also be used to enter a blank
space in the name. To clear the previous letter,
press the [H/L] key.
9. After the eleventh letter or space has been entered, press the
[
CALL/SET] key to advance to the GROUP MMSI (Maritime Mobile Ser-
vice Identity Number) number entry.
GX1280SPage 41
10. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to scroll through
numbers, 0-9.
11. To enter the desired number and move one space
to the right press the [CALL/SET] key. Repeat procedure until all nine spaces of MMSI number are
entered.
12. If a mistake was made entering in the name or the
MMSI number repeat pressing the [CALL/SET] key until the wrong character is selected, then move the CHANNEL selector knob to correct the
entry.
13. To store the data entered, press and hold the [CALL/SET] key.
14. To enter another individual address, repeat steps 4 through 13.
15. To exit this menu and return to radio operation mode press the [16/9
key.
7.8.1.2 Transmitting a Group Call
1. Select the desired channel to use Group Call for
voice communications.
2. Press the [CALL/SET] key. The “DSC OPERATION” menu will appear.
3. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select
“GROUP.” (To cancel, select “EXIT” with the CHAN-NEL selector knob or press [16/9] key.)
4. Press the [CALL/SET] key. The transceiver will
beep, and the “Group directory” will appear.
5. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select the
“Group” you want to contact.
6. Press the [CALL/SET] key to transmit the Group
Call signal.
7. When the Group Call signal is sent, the dot-matrix
area of the LCD will be as shown in the illustration
at the right.
8. After the GROUP CALL is transmitted, all the radios in the group will switch to the designated channel.
9. Listen to the channel to make sure it is not busy,
then key the microphone and call the other vessels you desire to communicate with.
]
GX1280SPage 42
7.8.1.3 Receiving a Group Call
1. When a group call is received, the MATRIX will produce a ringing alarm
sound.
2. The radio automatically switches to the requested channel.
3. Press any key to stop the alarm.
4. Monitor the channel for the person calling the Group for a message.
5. If you want to respond, monitor the channel to make sure it is clear, then
press the PTT on the mic and talk to the calling ship(s).
NOTE
After a Group call is received, the time the call was made and the ships
MMSI or vessels name will appear on the LCD.
7.8.2 Position Request
Advancements in DSC have made it possible to poll the location of another
vessel and show the position of that vessel on the display of the MATRIX.
Standard Horizon has taken this feature one step further, if any Standard
Horizon GPS is connected to the MATRIX, the polled position of the vessel
is shown on the display of the GPS chart plotter making it easy to navigate
to the location of the polled vessel. This is a great feature for anyone wanting to know the position of another vessel. For example you buddy that is
catching fish, or finding the location of a person you are cruising with.
NOTE
The other vessel must have an operating GPS receiver connected to its
DSC transceiver and must not have its transceiver set to deny position
requests. (Refer the section 7.9 to enter information into the individual
directory).
GX1280SPage 43
7.8.2.1 Setting up Position Reply
The MATRIX can be set up to automatically or manually send your position
to another vessel. This selection is important if you are concerned about
someone polling the position of your vessel that you may not want to. In the
manual mode you will see the MMSI or persons name shown on the display
allowing you to choose to send your position to the requesting vessel.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appear.
2. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “DSC
SETUP” menu.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “POS REPLY” with the CHANNEL selector knob.
4. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
5. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “AUTO”
or “MANUAL.” In “AUTO” mode, after a DSC POS
Request is received, the radio will automatically
transmit your vessels position. In “MANUAL” mode,
the display of the MATRIX will show who is requesting the position.
6. Press the [CALL/SET] key to store the selected
setting.
7. To exit this menu and return to radio operation mode press the [16/9] key.
7.8.2.2 Transmitting a Position Request to Another Vessel
NOTE
To transmit a Position Request, you must setup the MATRIX DSC Indi-
vidual / Position Call Directory with the name of the vessel(s) or person
and the MMSI of the DSC radio you wish to poll. To setup this directory
refer to section 12.1 Setting up the Individual / Position Call Directory
1. Press the [CALL/SET] key. The “DSC OPERATION” menu will appear in the display.
2. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select the
“POS REQUEST.”
3. Press [CALL/SET] key to show the Position request directory. This directory uses the INDIVIDUAL Directory information.
4. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select a name.
GX1280SPage 44
5. Press the [CALL/SET] key to transmit the position request DSC call.
6. After a DSC position request is transmitted, the
transceiver remains on channel 70 until position
data is received from the polled vessel.
7. When the MATRIX receives the position from the
polled vessel it is shown on the radio display and
also transferred to the GPS Chart plotter.
8. If the MATRIX does not receive a reply, the LCD
will display “SEND” to prompt the user to send
the call again or exit the mode.
NOTE
If the MATRIX does not receive position data from the polled vessel, the
LCD will show “NO POSITION DATA.”
7.8.2.3 Receiving a Position Request
When a position request call is received from another vessel, a ringing alarm
will sound and POS REQUEST will be show in the LCD. Operation and
transceiver function differs depending on “POS REPLY” in the “DSC SETUP”
menu setting.
Automatically reply:
1. When a position request call is received, a calling alarm sounds 4 times.
Then requested position coordinates are transmitted automatically to the vessel requesting your
vessels position.
2. To exit from position request display, press any
key.
Manually reply:
1. When a position request call is received from another vessel, the LCD will be as shown in the illustration at the right.
2. A ringing alarm sounds 4 times. Then select type
of reply function “REPLY” or “NO REPLY” by using
the CHANNEL selector knob.
3. The MATRIX display will show “REPLY” or “NO
REPLY” allowing you choose to send your vessels
location by using the CHANNEL selector knob.
GX1280SPage 45
4. When “REPLY” is selected, press the [CALL/SET] key. And the your
position will be transmitted to the requesting vessel.
5. To exit from position request display, press any key.
7.8.3 Position Send
The feature is similar to Position Request, however instead of requesting a
position of another vessel this function allows you to send your position to
another vessel. Your vessel must have an operating GPS receiver connected
for the MATRIX to send the position.
NOTE
To transmit a Position Send Call, you must setup the MATRIX DSC
Individual / Position Call Directory with the name of the vessel(s) or
person and the MMSI of the DSC radio you wish to send your position
to. To setup this directory refer to section 7.7.1 Setting up the Individual
/ Position Call Directory.
7.8.3.1 Transmitting a DSC Position Send Call
1. Press the [CALL/SET] key. The “DSC OPERATION” menu will appear in the display.
2. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select the
“POS SEND.”
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key to select the Individual
directory.
4. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select a name
in the directory.
5. Press the [CALL/SET] key to send your position
to the selected vessel.
6. After your position is transmitted, the resend menu
will appear. To send your position again, select
“SEND” and press the [CALL/SET] key.
7. To exit the mode, select “EXIT” and press the
[
CALL/SET] key.
GX1280SPage 46
7.8.3.2 Receiving a DSC Position Send Call
When another vessel transmits their vessels location to the MATRIX the
following will happen:
1. A ringing sound will be produced when the call is received.
2. Press the [16/9] key to stop ringing
3. The position from the vessel sending it's position will be shown on the
display of the radio and also transferred to any Standard Horizon GPS
Chart plotter if connected.
GX1280SPage 47
8 RADIO SETUP
NOTE
The optional RAM+ MIC CMP25 can be also change the SETUP menu.
Refer to page 54 for details.
8.1 LAMP ADJUSTING
Allows setting up the backlight intensity or to turn it off.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appears.
2. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “LAMP” in
the “RADIO SETUP” menu with the CHANNEL selector knob.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
4. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select the
desired level. When “OFF” is selected, the lamp
is extinguished.
5. Press the [CALL/SET] key to store the selected
level.
6. To exit this menu and return to radio operation mode press the [16/9
key.
8.2 LCD CONTRAST
Due to varying mounting (overhead or below) this selection sets up the display for best viewabilty.
]
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appears.
2. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “CONTRAST” in the “RADIO SETUP” menu with the
CHANNEL selector knob.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
4. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select the
desired level. The contrast level can be set from
“1” to “7.”
5. Press the the [CALL/SET] key to store the selected
level.
6. To exit this menu and return to radio operation mode press the [16/9
key.
GX1280SPage 48
]
8.3 TIME OFFSET
Sets the time offset between local time and UTC (time GPS sends to radio).
Time is displayed when GPS position (LAT/LON) is displayed by pressing
the [H/L] key.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appears.
2. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “TIME SET”
in the “RADIO SETUP” menu with the CHANNEL
selector knob.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
4. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select time
offset from UTC. See illustration below to find your
offset time from UTC. If “0:00” is assigned, the time
is the same as UTC (Universal Time Coordinated
or GMT Greenwich Mean Time).
5. Press the [CALL/SET] key to store the time offset.
6. To exit this menu and return to radio operation mode press the [16/9
key.
]
OFFSET TIME TABLE
GX1280SPage 49
8.4 KEY BEEP (ON/OFF
This selection allows the beep tone when a key is pressed to be turned off.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appears.
2. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “KEY
BEEP” in the “RADIO SETUP” menu with the
CHANNEL selector knob.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
4. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “ON”
or “OFF.”
5. Press the [CALL/SET] key to set the key beep
condition.
6. To exit this menu and return to radio operation
mode press the [16/9] key.
Emergency alarm and beeps for DSC operation cannot be turned OFF.
)
NOTE
8.5 WX ALERT (ON/OFF
This selection allows the radios NOAA Weather alert to be turned off. Default setting is ON.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appears.
2. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “WX
ALERT” in the “RADIO SETUP” menu with the
CHANNEL selector knob.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
4. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “ON”
or “OFF.”
5. Press the [CALL/SET] key to store the selected
setting.
6. To exit this menu and return to radio operation
mode press the [16/9] key.
)
GX1280SPage 50
8.6 VOICE SCRAMBLER
(Operates only when the optional CVS2500 is installed)
This menu is used to setup the channels to be scrambled and the scrambler
code.
NOTE
This menu will not appear unless a CVS2500 is installed.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appears.
2. Press the [CALL/SET] key then select “SCRAMBLER” in the “RADIO SETUP” menu with the
CHANNEL selector knob.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key then select “CODE” in
the “SCRAMBLER” menu with the CHANNEL selector knob.
4 Press the [CALL/SET] key then turn the CHAN-
NEL selector knob to change the scrambler code.
The scrambler code can be set from “0” to “3” and
“OFF.” When “OFF” is selected the voice scrambler is disabled.
5. Press the [CALL/SET] key to store the selected
code.
6. Select “CHANNEL” in the “SCRAMBLER” menu
with the CHANNEL selector knob, then press the
[
CALL/SET] key.
7. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to change the
Scrambler channel.
8. Press the [SCAN] key to store the selected channel. Repeat steps 6 and 7 to set other channels.
9. Press the [CALL/SET] key to return to the “SCRAMBLER” menu.
10. To exit this menu and return to radio operation mode press the [16/9
key.
]
GX1280SPage 51
8.7 CHANNEL NAMING
This selection allows you to customize the name of a channel from the default name.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appear.
2. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “CH NAME”
in the “RADIO SETUP” menu with the CHANNEL
selector knob.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
4. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select the
channel to be named and press the [CALL/SET
key.
5. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob scroll through
the alphabet and 0 - 9.
6. Press the [CALL/SET] key to enter the desired
letter and move the cursor one space to the right.
7. Repeat procedure until the name is complete. The
name can consist of up to twelve characters. If
you do not use all twelve character, press the
[
CALL/SET] key to move to the next space. To
clear the previous letter, press the [H/L] key.
8. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key to enter the name and exit
from the “CH NAME” menu. The LCD will return to the “SETUP” menu.
9. If you want to enter the name of another channel, repeat steps 3 through
8.
10. To exit this menu and return to radio operation mode press the [16/9
key.
]
]
GX1280SPage 52
8.8 TRUE MAGNETIC CHANGE (NAV display
Allows customizing the GPS COG (Course Over Ground) displayed on the
LCD to be in True or Magnetic.
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until
“RADIO SETUP” menu appear.
2. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select “TRUE
MAG” in the “RADIO SETUP” menu with the
CHANNEL selector knob.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
4. Turn the CHANNEL selector knob to select “MAGNETIC” or “TRUE.”
5. Press the [CALL/SET] key to store the selected
setting.
6. To exit this menu and return to radio operation
mode press the [16/9] key.
)
GX1280SPage 53
9 RAM+ MIC OPERATION
If the enhanced optional RAM+ Mic (CMP25) is connected to the remote
microphone connector on the transceiver’s rear panel, the transceiver can
use the remote control operation except for a few functions. The RAM+ Mic
supplied with 23 feet (7 m) of routing cable and can be extended up to 70
feet (21 m) using three 23 feet extension cables model CT-100. The intercom operation can be used between the RAM+ Mic and the transceiver.
9.1 RAM+ MIC CONTROLS
SQUELCH CONTROL (SQL
MEMIC
SCAN DW
CALL
SET
M
E
)
N
WX
NAV
U
U.I.C
16
9
Activates the squelch adjusting mode.
Press this key to activate the squelch adjusting mode. Press the
microphone’s [] or [] key to adjust the squelch.
When this key is pressed and held down for 1 second or more, the squelch
is turned off.
GX1280SPage 54
VOLUME KEY (VOL
)
Activates the volume adjusting mode.
Press this key to activate the volume adjusting mode. Press the
microphone’s [] or [] to adjust the volume.
POWER SWITCH (PWR
)
Press and hold down this key to turn to the transceiver and RAM+ Mic on
and off.
PTT (Push-To-Talk) SWITCH
Activates transmission.
[
H/L] KEY
Toggles between high and low power. When the [H/L] key is pressed
while the transceiver is on channel 13 or 67, the power will temporarily
switch from LO to HI power until the PTT is released. The [H/L] key does
not function on transmit inhibited and low power only channels.
[](UP)/[](
DOWN) KEY
These keys are used to select channels, adjusts the volume and squelch
level, and to choose the item selection of different functions (such as the
DSC operation). In many ways, these keys emulate the function of the
transceiver’s CHANNEL selector knob.
[
16/9] KEY
Immediately recalls channel 16 from any channel location. Holding down
this key recalls channel 9. Pressing the [16/9] key reverts to the previous
selected working channel.
Secondary use
Please see secondary use for the [WX] and [MEM] key.
KEY PAD
[
SCAN] Key
1. Starts and stops scanning of programmed channels.
2. If held while the [UP()] or [DOWN()] key on the microphone are
pressed or CHANNEL selector knob on radio is turned, the radio will
show the channels programmed in scan memory. This function will
not work if the unit is scanning.
NOTE: The priority channel is channel 16 only.
GX1280SPage 55
[
CALL/SET] Key
The [CALL/SET] key functions as the enter key.
Secondary use
Press the [CALL/SET] key to access the DSC OPERATION menu.
Press and hold the [CALL/SET] key to access the SETUP menu.
[DW]
Key
Watches for a transmission on CH16 and another selected channel until
either signal is received. (Dual watch)
NOTE: When the DSC SCANNING feature is enabled (see section 7.15
DSC SCAN), the radio watches for a transmission on CH16, another
selected channel, and CH70 until either signal is received (Triple watch).
Secondary use
Press and hold [DW] key, intercom operation will operate between radio
and RAM Mic.
[
NAV] Key
Press and hold this key, when connected to the GPS receiver, the LCD
displays Position Data, Time, SOG (Speed Over Ground), and COG
(Course Over Ground) from the GPS.
[WX]
Key
Immediately recalls the previously selected NOAA weather channel from
any channel location.
Secondary use
1. Holding down the [16/9] key while pressing the [WX] key changes
the mode from USA to International or Canadian.
NOTE: If position is displayed, this icon will be hidden.
2. Holding down the [WX] and [SCAN] key while turning the power on
resets the microprocessor and erases scan channels from memory.
This clears the memory and establishes the factory-set defaults. For
a list of these defaults, see the section on Resetting the Transceiver’s
Microprocessor.
[
DISTRESS] KEY
Used to send a DSC Distress Call. To send the distress call:
1. Lift the red rubber cover.
2. Press and hold the Red button. The RAM+ display will
count down (3-2-1) and then transmit the Distress call.
3. When the distress signal is sent, Ch70 and “TX” icon
GX1280SPage 56
will appear on the LCD. After the message has been
sent, the radio will sound a Distress Alarm.
4. The transceiver “shadow-watches” for a transmission
on CH16 or CH70 until an acknowledgment signal is
received. “DISTRESS” and “WAITING” will appear on
the LCD.
5. If an acknowledgement is received, select channel 16
and advise your distress situation.
6. If no acknowledgment is received, the distress call is repeated in 4
minute intervals until an acknowledgment is received.
7. When a DSC Distress acknowledgment is received, a distress alarm
sounds and channel 16 is automatically selected. The LCD shows
the MMSI of the ship responding to your distress.
RECEIVED ACK: acknowledgment signal is received.
RECEIVED RLY: relay signal is received from another vessel or coast
station.
8. To cancel the DSC distress alarm signal from the speaker, press any
key.
9.2 INTERCOM OPERATION
9.2.1 Communication
1. Press and hold the [DW] key while
in the “RADIO” mode, the mode is
changed to “INTERCOM” mode. If
press the [DW] key again the mode
will revert to “RADIO” mode.
2. When the “INTERCOM” operation
is activated, “IC” is displayed on the
RAM+ Mic and “INTERCOM” is displayed on the MATRIX.
3. Press the PTT switch. The “TALK”
is displayed.
NOTE: A warning beep is emitted
when the RAM+ Mic PTT switch is
pressed while the transceiver microphone’s PTT switch is pressed.
4. Speak slowly and clearly into the microphone, hold the microphone about
1/2 inch away from your mouth.
5. When finished, release the PTT switch.
(
RAM+ Mic PTT switch is pressed
(
MATRIXPTT switch is pressed
)
)
GX1280SPage 57
9.2.2 Calling
Hold down the [DW] key for 1 second or more, when the “INTERCOM” operation is activated. A calling beep is emitted twice from the transceiver
speaker.
9.3 DSC/RADIO SETUP MODE
The CMP25 can access the DSC / RADIO setup menu (refer to section 7
“DSC/RADIO SETUP” for details). However, the LAMP, CONTRAST, and
KEY BEEP menu item which is accessed from the CMP25 only controls the
CMP25’s display and speaker.
DSC/RADIO Setup mode from the CMP25:
1. Press and hold down the [CALL/SET] key until “RADIO SETUP” menu
appears.
2. Press the []/[] key to select “RADIO SET” or “DSC SETUP” menu.
3. Press the [CALL/SET] key, then select the menu item you wish to work
on by pressing the []/[] key.
4. Press the [CALL/SET] key.
5. Press the []/[] key to change the value or condition for the menu
item, then press the [CALL/SET] key to save the new setting.
6. Press the []/[] key to select “EXIT,” then press the [CALL/SET] key
to return to the normal operation.
RADIO SETUP-menuDSC SETUP-menu
GX1280SPage 58
10 MAINTENANCE
The inherent quality of the solid-state components used in this transceiver
will provide many years of continuous use. Taking the following precautions
will prevent damage to the transceiver.
•Keep the microphone connected or the jack covered at all times to prevent corrosion of electrical contacts;
•Never key the microphone unless an antenna or suitable dummy load is
connected to the transceiver.
•Ensure that the supply voltage to the transceiver does not exceed 16
VDC or fall below 11 VDC.
•Use only STANDARD HORIZON-approved accessories and replacement
parts.
In the unlikely event of serious problems, please contact your Dealer or our
repair facility. Address and phone numbers for this facility, as well as warranty information, are contained in section 12 WARRANTY.
10.1 REPLACEMENT PARTS
Occasionally an owner needs a replacement mounting bracket or knob.
These can be ordered from our Parts Department by writing or calling:
Marine Division of Vertex Standard
US Headquarters
10900 Walker Street, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A.
Telephone (714) 827-7600
Commonly requested parts, and their part numbers are listed below.
• Power Code: T9023306
• Dust Cover: RA516700
• VOL/SQL Knob Assy: RA0422200
• Rotary Channel Knob: RA0491800
• Mounting Bracket (White): RA0516800
• Mounting Bracket Knob (White): RA043770A
• Mounting Bracket (Black): RA0520100
• Mounting Bracket Knob (Black): RA045910A
• Microphone Hanger (White): RA0436000
• Microphone Hanger (Black): RA0458800
GX1280SPage 59
10.2 FACTORY SERVICE
In the unlikely event that the radio fails to perform or needs servicing,
please contact the following:
Standard Horizon
Attention Marine Repair Department
10900 Walker Street
Cypress, CA 90630
Telephone (800) 366-4566
An “RA” Return Authorization number is not necessary to send a product in
for service. Include a brief note describing the problem along with your name,
return address, phone number, and proof of purchase.
GX1280SPage 60
10.3 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
SYMPTON
Transceiver fails to
power up.
Transceiver blows
fuse when connected
to power supply.
Popping or whining
noise from the
speaker while engine
runs.
Sound is not emitted
from the external
speaker.
Receiving station report low transmit
power, even with
transceiver set to HI
power.
“HI BATTERY” or “LO
BATTERY” message
is appeared when the
power is turned on.
Your position is not
displayed.
PROBABLE CAUSE
No DC voltage to the
transceiver, or blown
fuse.
Reversed power
wires.
Engine noise.
Accessory cable.
Antenna.
The power supply voltage is too high or too
low.
Accessory cable.
Setting of the GPS
navigation receiver.
REMEDY
a. Check the 12VDC battery con-
nections and the fuse.
b. The VOL/PWR knob needs to
be pressed and held to turn the
radio on.
Check the power cable for DC voltage, or replace the fuse (6A 250V).
Make sure the red wire is connected to the positive (+) battery
post, and the black wire is connected to the negative (-) battery
post. If the fuse still blows, contact your Dealer.
Reroute the DC power cables
away from the engine. Add noise
suppressor on power cable.
Change to resistive spark plug
wires and/or add an alternator
whine filter.
Check the connections of the accessory cable.
Have the antenna checked or test
the transceiver with another antenna. If the problem persists, contact your Dealer for servicing.
Confirm that the connected power
supply voltage is not 17 volts or
lower than 10 volts. Confirm that
the generator has not malfunctioned.
Check the accessory cable connection.
Some GPS use the battery ground
line for NMEA connection.
Check the output signal format of
the GPS navigation receiver. This
radio requires NMEA0183 format
with GLL sentence as an output
signal. If the GPS has a baud rate
setting make sure to select 4800
and parity to NONE.
GX1280SPage 61
11. CHANNEL ASSIGNMENTS
Tables on the following columns list the VHF Marine Channel assignments
for U.S.A. and International use. Below are listed some data about the charts.
1. VTS. Where indicated, these channels are part of the U.S. Coast Guard’s
Vessel Traffic System.
2. Alpha channel numbers, that is, channel numbers followed by the letter
A (such as Channel 07A) are simplex channels on the U.S.A. or Canadian channel assignments whose counterparts in the International assignments are duplex channels. International channels do not use “al-
pha” numbers. If you call the Coast Guard on Channel 16, they will sometimes ask you to “go to channel 22 Alpha.” This is a channel assigned
to U.S.A, and Canadian Coast Guards for handling distress and other
calls. If your radio is set for International operation you will go to Channel 22 instead of 22A, and will not be able to communicate with the
Coast Guard. To use Channel 22A, your radio must be set for USA or
Canada operation, usually by a U/I/C (USA/International/Canada) control or combination of controls. Channel 22 (without an “A”) is an Inter-national duplex channel for port operations. Some radios indicate an
“A” adjacent to the alpha channels on the display; on others “alpha” is
not indicated but the proper channel is selected based on the U/I/C setting.
3. Bridge-to-Bridge channels (for example, Channel 13) are for use by bridge
operators on intercoastal waterways and rivers. It is also used by marine
vessels in the vicinity of these bridges for navigation and for communicating with the bridge operators. Note that a limit of 1 Watt is specified
for these channels. See page 27 for additional information.
4. The S/D column on the chart indicates either S (simplex) or D (duplex).
Simplex means transmitting and receiving on the same frequency. Only
one party at a time can talk, unlike a telephone. Be sure to say “over”
and release your microphone push-to-talk switch at the end of each transmission. Duplex operation involves the use of one frequency for transmitting and a separate frequency for receiving. On channels specified
as duplex on the charts, correct mode of operation is established automatically by your radio when you select a channel; you cannot change
the mode. And you still must release the push-to-talk switch after each
transmission in order to listen to the radio.
GX1280SPage 62
5. Channels normally used by recreational boaters are those that include
the term “non-commercial” in the Channel Use column of the chart. Some
of these are shared with other users and some are used only in certain
geographic regions.
6. Marine vessels equipped with VHF radios are required to monitor
Channel 16.
CH U C I S/DTXRXCHANNEL USE
01X X D 156.050 160.650 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator
01A XS156.050Port Operation and Commercial. VTS in selected areas
02X X D 156.100 160.700 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator
03X X D 156.150 160.750 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator
03A XS156.150US Government only, Coast Guard
04X D 156.200 160.800 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator),
04AXS156.200Pacific coast: Coast Guard, East Coast:
05X D 156.250 160.850 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator),
05A X XS156.250Port operation. VTS in Seattle
06 X X X S156.300Inter-ship Sefety
07X D 156.350 160.950 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator),
07A X XS156.350Commercial
08 X X X S156.400Commercial (Inter-ship only
09 X X X S156.450Boater Calling channel, Commercial & Non-commercial
10 X X X S156.500Commercial
11 X X X S156.550Commercial. VTS in selected areas.
12 X X XS156.600Port operation. VTS in selected areas.
13 X X X S156.650Inter-ship Navigation Safety (Bridge-to-bridge
14 X X XS156.700Port operation. VTS in selected areas.
15 XS- - -156.750 Environmental (Receive only
15X X S156.750Commercial, non-commercial, ship movement (1 W
16 X X XS156.800International Distress, Safety and Calling
17 X X X S156.850State Controlled (1 W
18X D 156.900 161.500 Port operation, ship movement
18A X XS156.900Commercial
19X D 156.950 161.550 Port operation, ship movement
19A XS156.950US: Commercial
19AXS156.950Coast Guard
20 X X X D 157.000 161.600 Canadian Coast Guard Only,
20A XS157.000Port operation
21X D 157.050 161.650 Port operation, ship movement
21A X XS157.050U.S. Government Only, Canadian Coast Guard
22X D 157.100 161.700 Port operation, ship movement
22A X XS157.100US and Canadian Coast Guard Liaison and Maritime
VHF MARINE CHANNEL CHART
Port operation, ship movement
Commercial fishing
Port operation, ship movement
Port operation, ship movement
(
Recreational
International: port operations and shipment
Safety Information Broadcasts announced on channel 16
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
GX1280SPage 63
CH U C I S/DTXRXCHANNEL USE
23X X D 157.150 161.750 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator
23A XS157.150U.S. Government Only
24 X X X D 157.200 161.800 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator
25 X X X D 157.250 161.850 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator
26 X X X D 157.300 161.900 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator
27 X X X D 157.350 161.950 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator
28 X X X D 157.400 162.000 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator
60X X D 156.025 160.625 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator
61X D 156.075 160.675 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator),
61A X XS156.075U.S. Government Only, Canadian Coast Guard-
62X D 156.125 160.725 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator),
62AXS156.125Public Coast: Coast Guard;
63X D 156.175 160.775 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator),
63A XS156.175Port Operation and Commercial. VTS in selected areas.
64X X D 156.225 160.825 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator),
64A X XS156.225U.S. Government Only, Canadian Commercial Fishing
65X D 156.275 160.875 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator),
65A X XS156.275Port Opeations
66X D 156.325 160.925 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator),
66A X XS156.325Port Operations
67 X X X S156.375US: Commercial. Used for Bridge-to-bridge communi-
68 X X XS156.425Non-commercial (Recreational
69 X X X S156.475US: Non-commercial (Recreational),
70 X X X S156.525Digital selective calling (voice communications not allowed
71 X X X S156.575US, Canada: Non-commercial (Recreational),
72 X X XS156.625Non-commercial (Inter-ship only
73 X X X S156.675US: Port Operations, Canada: Commercial fishing only,
74 X X X S156.725US: Port Operations, Canada: Commercial fishing only,
75 XS156.775Port Operations (Inter-ship only
76 XS156.825
77 X XS156.875Port Operations (Inter-ship only
77X S156.875Port Operations (Inter-ship only
78X D 156.925 161.525 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator),
78A156.925 156.925
79A156.975 156.975 Great Lakes only.
80A157.025 157.025 Do.
14
67
156.375 .......Internship only.
Distress, Safety and Calling
16156.800 156.800 EPRIB
5
Intership Safety
06156.300 ........ a. Intership, or b.
Environmental
13
15
........ 156.750 Coast to ship only.
Maritime Control
9,10
17
156.850 156.850
Liaison, U.S. Coast Guard
11
22A
157.100 157.100 Ship, aircraft, and
Points of communication (Intership and be-
)
tween coast and ship
Coast
unless otherwise indi-
transmit
cated)
For SAR: Ship and
aircraft for the U.S.
Coast Guard.
coast stations of
the U.S. Coast
Guard and at Lake
Mead, Nev., ship
and coast stations
of the National
Park Service, U.S.
Department of the
Interior.
1: 156.050 MHz and 156.175 MHz are available for port operations and commercial communications
purposes when used only within the U.S. Coast Guard designated Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)
area of New Orleans, on the lower Mississippi River from the various pass entrances in the Gulf of
Mexico to Devil’s Swamp Light at River Mile 242.4 above head of passes near Baton Rouge.
2: 156.250 MHz is available for port operations communications use only within the U.S. Coast Guard
designated VTS radio protection areas of New Orleans and Houston described in Sec. 80.383.
156.250 MHz is available for intership port operations communications used only within the area of
Los Angeles and Long Beach harbors, within a 25- nautical mile radius of Point Fermin, California.
3: 156.550 MHz, 156.600 MHz and 156.700 MHz are available in the U.S. Coast Guard designated
port areas only for VTS communications and in the Great Lakes available primarily for communications relating to the movement of ships in sectors designated by the St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation or the U.S. Coast Guard. The use of these frequencies outside VTS and ship
movement sector protected areas is permitted provided they cause no interference to VTS and ship
movement communications in thier respective designated sectors.
GX1280SPage 66
4: Use of 156.875 MHz is limited to communications with pilots regarding the movement and docking
of ships. Normal output power must not exceed 1 watt.
5: 156.375 MHz and 156.650 MHz are available primarily for intership navigational communications.
These frequencies are available between coast and ship on a secondary basis when used on or in
the vicinity of locks or drawbridges. Normal output power must not exceed 1 watt. Maximum output
power must not exceed 10 watts for coast stations or 25 watts for ship stations.
6: On the Great Lakes, in addition to bridge-to-bridge communications, 156.650 MHz is available for
vessel control purposes in established vessel traffic systems. 156.650 MHz is not available for use in
the Mississippi River from South Pass Lighted Whistle Buoy “2” and Southwest Pass entrance
Midchannel Lighted Whistle Buoy to mile 242.4 above Head of Passes near Baton Rouge. Additionally it is not available for use in the Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet, the Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet
Canal, and the Inner Harbor Navigational Canal, except to aid the transition from these areas.
7: Use of 156.375 MHz is available for navigational communications only in the Mississippi River from
South Pass Lighted Whistle Buoy “2” and Southwest Pass entrance Mid-channel Lighted Whistle
Buoy to mile 242.4 above head of Passes near Baton Rouge, and in addition over the full length of
the Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet Canal from entrance to its junction with the Inner Harbor Navigation
Canal, and over the ull length of the Inner Harbor Navigation Canal from its junction with the Mississippi River to its entry to Lake Pontchartrain at the New Seabrook vehicular bridge.
8: Within 120 km (75 miles) of the United States/Canada border, in the area of the Puget Sound and
the Strait of Juan de Fuca and its approaches, 157.425 MHz is half of the duplex pair designated as
Channel 88. In this area, Channel 88 is available to ship stations for communications with public
coast stations only. More than 120 km (75 miles) from the United States/Canada border in the area
of the Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, its approaches, the Great Lakes, and the St.
Lawrence Seaway, 157.425 MHz is available for intership and commercial communications. Outside
Puget Sound area and its approaches and the Great Lakes, 157.425 MHz is also available for
communications between commercial fishing vessels and associated aircraft while engaged in commercial fishing activities.
9: When the frequency 156.850 MHz is authorized, it may be used additionally for search and rescue
training exercises conducted by state or local governments.
10: The frequency 156.850 MHz is additionally available to coast stations on the Great Lakes for trans-
mission of scheduled Coded Marine Weather Forecasts (MAFOR), Great Lakes Weather Broadcast
(LAWEB) and nscheduled Notices to Mariners or Bulletins. F3C and J3C emissions are permitted.
Coast Stations on the Great Lakes must cease weather broadcasts which cause interference to
stations operating on 156.800 MHz until the interference problem is resolved.
11: The frequency 157.100 MHz is authorized for search and rescuetraining exercises by state or local
government in conjunction with U.S. Coast Guard stations. Prior U.S. Coast Guard approval is required. Use must cease immediately on U.S. Coast Guard request.
12: The duplex pair for channel 20 (157.000/161.600 MHz) may be used for ship to coast station com-
munications.
13: Available for assignment to coast stations, the use of which is in accord with an agreed program, for
the broadcast of information to ship stations concerning the environmental conditions in which vessels operate, i.e., weather; sea conditions; time signals; notices to mariners; and hazards to naviga-
tion.
14: Available only in the Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
15: The frequency 156.525 MHz is to be used exclusively for distress, safety and calling using digital
selective calling techniques. No other uses are permitted.
16: The frequency 156.450 MHz is available for intership, ship and coast general purpose calling by
noncommercial vessels, such as recreational boats and private coast stations.
17: The frequency 156.425 MHz is assigned by rule to private coast stations in Alaska for facsimile
transmissions as well as voice communications.
GX1280SPage 67
12. WARRANTY
Marine Products Limited Warranty
STANDARD HORIZON (a division of VERTEX STANDARD) warrants, to the
original purchaser only, each new Marine Communications Product (“Product”) manufactured and/or supplied by STANDARD HORIZON against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service for a
period of time from the date of purchase as follows:
Fixed Mount and Portable Transceivers
1 year - if purchased before 01/01/91
3 years - if purchased between 01/01/91 and 01/01/94
3 years Waterproof - if purchased after 01/01/94
Loud hailers
1 year - if purchased before 01/01/91
3 years - if purchased after 01/01/91
Associated Chargers
1 year - if purchased before 01/01/91
3 years - if purchased after 01/01/91
Associated Batteries - 18 months. Note: Batteries will be deemed deflec-
tive only if storage capacity drops below 80% of rated capacity or if leakage
develops.
Associated Accessories - 1 year. Includes: Microphones/Handsets, External Speakers, Antennas, Carrying Accessories, Power Supplies, and Signaling Boards.
To receive warranty service, the purchaser must deliver the Product, transportation and insurance prepaid, to STANDARD HORIZON (a division of
VERTEX STANDARD), Attention Marine repairs 10900 Walker Street, Cypress CA 90630. Include proof of purchase indicating model. serial number,
and date of purchase. STANDARD HORIZON will return the Product to the
purchaser freight prepaid. Products purchased prior to January 1, 1991 will
bear the STANDARD HORIZON warranty terms in effect prior to that date.
In the event of a defect, malfunction or failure of the Product during the
warranty period, STANDARD HORIZON’s liability for any breach of contract
or any breach of express or implied warranties in connection with the sale of
Products shall be limited solely to repair or replacement, at its option, of the
Product or part(s) therein which, upon examination by STANDARD HORI-
GX1280SPage 68
ZON, appear to be defective or not up to factory specifications. STANDARD
HORIZON may, at its option, repair or replace parts or subassemblies with
new or reconditioned parts and subassemblies. Parts thus repaired or replaced are warranted for the balance of the original applicable warranty.
STANDARD HORIZON will not warrant installation, maintenance or service
of the Products. In all instances, STANDARD HORIZON’s liability for damages shall not exceed the purchase price of the defective Product.
This warranty only extends to Products sold within the 50 States of the United
States of America and the District of Columbia.
STANDARD HORIZON will pay all labor to repair the product and replacement parts charges incurred in providing the warranty service except where
purchaser abuse or other qualifying exceptions exist. The purchaser must
pay any transportation expenses incurred in returning the Product to STANDARD HORIZON for service.
This limited warranty does not extend to any Product which has been subjected to misuse, neglect, accident, incorrect wiring by anyone other than
STANDARD HORIZON, improper installation, or subjected to use in violation of instructions furnished by STANDARD HORIZON, nor does this warranty extend to Products on which the serial number has been removed,
defaced, or changed. STANDARD HORIZON cannot be responsible in any
way for ancillary equipment not furnished by STANDARD HORIZON which
is attached to or used in connection with STANDARD HORIZON’s Products,
or for the operation of the Product with any ancillary equipment, and all such
equipment is expressly excluded from this warranty. STANDARD HORIZON
disclaims liability for range, coverage, or operation of the Product and ancillary equipment as a whole under this warranty. STANDARD HORIZON reserves the right to make changes or improvements in Products, during subsequent production, without incurring the obligation to install such changes
or improvements on previously manufactured Products.
The implied warranties which the law imposes on the sale of this Product
are expressly LIMITED, in duration, to the time period specified above. STANDARD HORIZON shall not be liable under any circumstances for consequential damages resulting from the use and operation of this Product, or
from the breach of this LIMITED WARRANTY, any implied warranties, or
any contract with STANDARD HORIZON. IN CONNECTION WITH THE
SALE OF ITS PRODUCTS, STANDARD HORIZON MAKES NO WARRAN-
GX1280SPage 69
TIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED AS TO THE MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR OTHERWISE, EXCEPT AS
EXPRESSLY SET FORTH HEREIN.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, or limitation on how long an implied warranty lasts, so
the above limitations or exclusions may not apply. This warranty gives specific legal rights, and there may be other rights which may vary from state to
state.
ONLY PRODUCTS SOLD ON OR AFTER JANUARY 1, 1991 ARE COVERED UNDER THE TERMS OF THIS LIMITED WARRANTY.
GX1280SPage 70
ON-LINE WARRANTY REGISTRATION
THANK YOU for buying STANDARD HORIZON (a division of Vertex Standard) products! We are confident your new radio will serve your needs for
many years!
Please visit www.standardhorizon.com to register the MATRIX Marine VHF.
It should be noted that visiting the Web site from time to time may be beneficial to you, as new products are released they will appear on the STANDARD HORIZON Web site. Also a statement regarding product support
should be added to the manual.
Product Support Inquiries
If you have any questions or comments regarding the use of the MATRIX,
you can visit the STANDARD HORIZON Web site to send an E-Mail or contact the Product Support team at (714) 827-7600 ext 6300 M-F 7:00-5:00PST.
In addition to the warranty, STANDARD HORIZON includes a lifetime “flat
rate” program to provide service after the warranty period has expired. If you
wish to obtain the flat rate price for out-of-warranty repair, you must include
the information on the Owner’s Record with the unit when you return it to
your Dealer or to STANDARD HORIZON.
Lifetime Flat Rate Service Program: For the original Owner only, for the
lifetime of the unit, STANDARD HORIZON will repair the unit to original specifications.
Note: The flat rate amount is payable by the Owner only if STANDARD HORIZON or the STANDARD HORIZON Dealer determines that a repair is
needed. After the repair, a 90-day warranty will be in effect from the date of
return of the unit to the Owner.
This service program is not available for equipment which has failed as a
result of neglect, accident, breakage, misuse, improper installation or modification, or water damage (depending on the product).
GX1280SPage 71
13 SPECIFICATIONS
Performance specifications are nominal, unless otherwise indicated, and
are subject to change without notice.
13.1 GENERAL
Channels ............................................ All USA, International and Canadian