Uniden MHS125 User Manual

FLOATING VHF MARINE RADIO
RADIO VHF MARITIME FLOTTANTE
MHS125
OWNER’S MANUAL GUIDE D’UTILISATION
MAKING A DISTRESS CALL
For future reference, write your boat’s name & call sign here:
Speak slowly - clearly - calmly.
1.
Press the 16/9-TRI button to switch to Channel 16 (156.8 MHz).
2.
(If the corner of the display does not show 16, press the 16/9-
TRI button again until it does.)
Press the Push to Talk button and say: “MAYDAY -- MAYDAY
3.
-- MAYDAY.” Say “THIS IS {name of your boat (three times) and call sign/
4. boat registration number (once)}.
Repeat “MAYDAY {name of your boat}” once.
5. Tell where you are: (what navigational aids or landmarks are
6. near, or read the latitude and longitude from your GPS).
State the nature of your distress (e.g. sinking, medical
7. emergency, man overboard, on fire, adrift, etc.).
State the type of assistance you need (medical, towing, pumps,
8. etc.).
Give the number of persons aboard and describe the condition
9. of any injured persons.
Estimate present seaworthiness of your ship (e.g. how
10. immediate is the danger due to flooding or fire).
Briefly describe your ship, giving ship name (i.e., “Blue Duck is
11. 32 foot cabin cruiser, white hull, blue deck house”).
Say: “I WILL BE LISTENING ON CHANNEL 16.
12. End the message by saying “THIS IS {name or call sign of your
13. boat}, OVER.”
Release the Push to Talk button and listen.
14.
If you do not get an answer after 30 seconds, repeat your call beginning at step 3 above.
FAIRE UN APPEL DE DÉTRESSE
Pour toute référence ultérieure, transcrivez ci-dessous le nom et l’indicatif d’appel de votre bateau:
Parlez lentement – clairement – calmement.
Vérifiez si votre radio est en marche.
1.
Appuyez sur la touche 16/9-TRI du microphone afin de
2. commuter au canal 16 (156,8 MHz). (Si le canal 16 n’apparaît pas à l’affichage, appuyez de nouveau sur la touche 16/9-TRI jusqu’à ce qu’il soit affiché.) Appuyez sur le bouton de microphone Push to Talk et
3. dites:“MAYDAY -- MAYDAY -- MAYDAY”. Donnez l’identité de votre navire en disant : “ICI {nom de votre
4.
bateau (trois fois) ou indicatif d’appel et le numéro d’identification de votre bateau (une fois)}”.
Dites “MAYDAY {nom ou indicatif d’appel de votre bateau} une fois”.
5. Donnez votre position : (quels sont les points de repère ou
6. aides à la navigation près de vous ou lisez les coordonnées de longitude et de latitude apparaissant sur votre dispositif GPS). Révélez la nature de votre détresse (par exemple, nous
7. sommes en train de couler, urgence médicale, un homme à la mer, un incendie, nous sommes à la dérive, etc. Révélez la nature de l’aide désirée (médicale, remorquage, essence, etc.)
8. Donnez le nombre de personnes à bord et les conditions des
9. blessés, s’il y en a. Donnez la condition de navigabilité actuelle de votre navire, tel que
10. le degré de l’urgence par rapport une inondation, et une incendie. Donnez une brève description de votre navire en donnant le nom
11. du bateau (par exemple, “Blue Duck est un yacht de croisière de 32 pieds, avec une coque blanche et un rouffle bleu.). Dites : “JE VAIS ÉCOUTER SUR LE CANAL 16”.
12. Terminez le message en disant “ICI {nom ou indicatif d’appel de
13. votre bateau}, À VOUS”.
Relâchez le bouton Push to Talk du microphone et écoutez.
14.
Si vous n’obtenez pas de réponse après 30 secondes, répétez l’appel encommençant à l’étape 3 ci-dessus.
Making a Distress
Call ................ (inside front cover)
Table of Contents
Introduction ................................ E-1
Features ...................................... E-1
Getting Started ........................... E-3
What’s included ........................... E-3
Parts of the MHS125 ................... E-4
Front view ................................... E-4
Back view ................................... E-4
Charger ...................................... E-5
Reading the display ..................... E-6
Display icons and
what they mean ...................... E-6
How It Works .............................. E-7
Normal mode operation ............... E-8
Normal mode with Weather
Alert Watch ............................. E-8
Normal mode with Triple
Watch or Dual Watch ............. E-9
Normal mode with
Quad Watch ........................... E-9
Scan mode operation ................ E-10
Using the radio in
scan mode .......................... E-10
Scan mode with Weather
Alert Watch ............................E-11
Scan mode with Triple
Watch or Dual Watch ............E-11
Both Weather Alert and Triple/
Dual Watch in scan mode .....E-11
Weather mode ........................... E-12
Using the radio in
weather mode ......................E-12
Weather mode with
Weather Alert Watch ............ E-12
Weather mode with Triple
Watch or Dual Watch ........... E-13
Setting Up the Hardware ......... E-13
Attaching the Antenna ............... E-13
Installing the Battery .................. E-13
Using the Alkaline
Battery Case ........................... E-14
Mounting the Charger ................ E-15
Charging the Battery .................. E-15
Important notes on
charging the battery .............E-16
Attaching the Belt Clip ............... E-16
Using Your Radio ..................... E-17
Changing the Volume ............... E-17
Setting the Squelch Level .......... E-17
Changing the Channel ............... E-18
Making a Transmission .............. E-18
Boosting the transmission
power ...................................E-18
Setting the UIC Channel Mode .. E-19
Using the Strobe SOS Light ...... E-19
Turning the Key Beep
On and Off .............................. E-20
Using the External Speaker/
Mic Jack .................................. E-20
Maintenance and
Troubleshooting .................... E-20
Common Questions ................... E-21
Specications .......................... E-22
Channels and
Frequencies (MHz) ................. E-23
US channel frequencies and
names ..................................E-23
Canadian channel frequencies
and names ...........................E-25
International channel
frequencies and names ........ E-27
Weather channel frequencies
and names ...........................E-29
Regulations and
Safety Warnings .................... E-30
Maritime Radio Services
Operation ................................ E-30
Basic Radio Guidelines ............. E-30
Three Year Limited
Warranty ................................ E-33

INTRODUCTION

Features

Your radio provides the following key features:
Submersible design
Complies with floating JIS8/IPX8 water-resistant standards, which means the radio can be submerged in 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes without damage.
Notes:
The radio will only meet this rating if fully assembled and all rubber seals and bungs are well maintained and
correctly tted. This means that the speaker microphone
bung is inserted, and the battery pack(or case) and antenna are attached and securely fastened.
After your radio is submerged in water, you might notice that the sound is distorted. This is because there is still water remaining in and around the speaker and microphone. Just shake the radio to clear excess water, and the sound should return to normal.
If your radio is exposured to salt water, clean it thoroughly with fresh water and dry it before turning it on.
The charger is not waterproof.
Memory scan mode
Lets you save channels to memory and monitor them in quick succession.
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Transmitter power level select
Lets you boost the transmitter power from 1 Watt to 2.5 or 5 Watts for added transmission distance.
Battery level display and low battery alert.
Dual, Triple and Quad Watch operation
These different watch modes let you monitor up to two Coast Guard Distress/Hailing channels and one weather channel along with one regular marine channel.
All marine VHF channels for the U.S., Canada, and
international waters
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
(NOAA) Weather Channel watch
Sounds a warning tone when a hazard alert is issued.

GETTING STARTED

Antenna
MHS125 Radio
Charger
AC Adapter
DC Adapter
Alkaline Battery Case
(batteries not included)
Lithium Ion
Battery
Belt Clip
Wrist Strap
Mounting Hardware

What’s included

If any pieces are missing or damaged, contact Uniden Customer Service (see back cover for contact information). For information on available accessories, visit www.uniden.com.
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Parts of the MHS125

Antenna
LCD display
1/2.5/5W
button
Channel up
button
Volume-power
knob (Turn clockwise to increase volume.)
Microphone
16/9-Tri
(16/9- triple
watch) button
WX-Alert
(weather-alert)
button
Scan-Dual
(scan-dual watch) button
Squelch knob (Turn clockwise to decrease channel noise.)
Push to talk
button
Speaker
Wrist strap anchor
Channel down
button
UIC-Lock button
Mem (memory)
SOS button
Strobe
SOS light
Antenna
LCD display
1/2.5/5W
button
Channel up
button
Volume-power
knob (Turn clockwise to increase volume.)
Microphone
16/9-Tri
(16/9- triple
watch) button
WX-Alert
(weather-alert)
button
Scan-Dual
(scan-dual watch) button
Squelch knob (Turn clockwise to decrease channel noise.)
Push to talk
button
Speaker
Wrist strap anchor
Channel down
button
UIC-Lock button
Mem (memory)
SOS button
Strobe
SOS light
Belt clip
Battery
Battery charging
contacts
Battery
latch
Belt clip
Battery
Battery charging
contacts
Battery
latch

Front view

Back view

Knob Turn clockwise to...: Turn counter-clockwise to...:
Charging
contacts
CHARGE LED
Screw holes for mounting
Power jack [cigarette (DC) or wall (AC) plug]
Charging
latches
Charging
contacts
CHARGE LED
Screw holes for mounting
Power jack [cigarette (DC) or wall (AC) plug]
Charging
latches
Volume-
Power
Squelch
Turn on the radio or increase the volume.
Raise the squelch level to reduce channel noise.
Decrease the volume or turn off the radio.
Lower the squelch level to hear weaker signals.
Button Press to... Press and hold to...
Push to talk NA Transmit on a channel
1st press: Go to channel 16.
16/9-Tri
2nd press: Go to channel 9. 3rd press: Go back to the
Turn Triple Watch on and off.
starting channel.
MEM-SOS
UIC-Lock
Channel Up
Channel
Down
WX-Alert
Scan-Dual
1/2.5/5W
Save a channel into memory or delete a channel from memory.
Switch from US to Canadian or international channels.
Move up one channel at a time.
Move down one channel at a time.
Listen to the weather channels.
Start scanning the channels saved in memory.
Change the transmit power (see page E-8).
Turns strobe SOS light on and off.
Lock the keys; press and hold again to unlock.
Move quickly up the channels.
Move quickly down the channels.
Turn Weather Alert Watch on and off.
Turn Dual Watch on and off.
NA

Charger

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Reading the display

88
Transmit power level (1, 2.5, or 5
Watts)
This channel is stored in memory.
Triple
Watch is
on
The radio
is in scan
mode
Key lock
is on
The radio is
transmitting
Current channel number
UIC channel mode
(USA, CANada, or
INTernational)
Weather Alert Watch is on.
Battery
status icon
88
Transmit power level (1, 2.5, or 5
Watts)
This channel is stored in memory.
Triple
Watch is
on
The radio
is in scan
mode
Key lock
is on
The radio is
transmitting
Current channel number
UIC channel mode
(USA, CANada, or
INTernational)
Weather Alert Watch is on.
Battery
status icon
The LCD display shows different information depending on what you are doing. This sample screen shows some of this information. The table below shows all the possible icons and what they mean.

Display icons and what they mean

Icon What it means
You are currently transmitting.
The transmitter power is set to 1 Watt, 2.5 Watts, or 5 Watts..
The keys are locked.
The radio is set to use US channels, CANadian channels, or INTernational channels.
TRIple Watch or DUAL Watch is turned on.
The current channel is saved in memory.
The radio is in Scan mode.
The radio is in Weather mode
Weather Alert Watch is turned on.
The battery is fully charged, mostly charged, half charged, mostly empty, or completely empty.
, , or
, , or
or

HOW IT WORKS

Your radio has three main operation modes: normal, scan, and weather.
Mode What it does
Normal
Scan
Weather
In addition to the three operation modes, your radio provides four different watch modes which you can activate during any
operation mode. In the watch modes, the radio briey checks for activity on a specic channel, then returns to its previous
operation.
Watch mode What it does To turn it on/off
Weather Alert Watch
Dual Watch
Triple Watch
Quad Watch
Monitors a single marine channel and lets you talk on that channel.
Monitors all the channels you save into memory.
Monitors the selected NOAA weather channel.
Checks the last-used weather channel for hazard alerts every 7 seconds.
Checks channel 16 for activity every 2 seconds.
Checks channels 16 and 9 for activity every 2 seconds.
Checks channels 16 and 9 for activity every 2 seconds, and checks the last-used weather channel every 7 seconds.
Use it when you
want to...
Monitor a channel or talk to another radio.
Check a small group of regularly-used
channels for trafc.
Hear the current or forecasted weather.
Press and hold WX-Alert for 2 seconds.
Press and hold Scan- Dual for 2 seconds.
Press and hold 16/9-Tri for 2 seconds.
Turn on Triple Watch, then turn on Weather Alert Watch.
To turn it
on/off
(default mode)
Press Scan- Dual.
Press WX- Alert.
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Note: Private boats must monitor channel 16 whenever
wx
Every 7 seconds, the radio checks
the last-used
weather channel.
WX Alert Watch on
Monitoring Channel 25
wx
Every 7 seconds, the radio checks
the last-used
weather channel.
WX Alert Watch on
Monitoring Channel 25
they are underway. Water-going vessels should have either Triple Watch or Dual Watch on at all times.
Normal mode operaon
To transmit, remove the radio from the charger, then press
and hold the Push to Talk button. Release the button when you are finished talking.
For the best sound quality, hold the microphone about two
inches from your mouth while you’re talking. Press the Channel Up button to move up one channel at
a time. Press and hold the button to scroll quickly up the channels.
Press the Channel Down button to move down one channel
at a time. Press and hold the button to scroll quickly down the channels.
To change the transmit power, press the 1/2.5/5W button.
The transmit power switches to the next transmit power each time you press this button.

Normal mode with Weather Alert Watch

If you activate Weather Alert Watch while operating in normal mode, the radio checks the most recently used weather channel every seven seconds. If it detects a weather or other hazard alert, it will switch to that weather channel. (If you are actively transmitting, the radio
waits until you nish
your transmission before checking the weather channel.)

Normal mode with Triple Watch or Dual Watch

09
16
09
16
09
16
Every 2 seconds, the radio
checks channels 9 & 16.
Triple Watch on
Monitoring Channel 25
09
16
09
16
09
16
Every 2 seconds, the radio
checks channels 9 & 16.
Triple Watch on
Monitoring Channel 25
wx
Every 7 seconds,
the radio checks
the last-used
weather channel.
WX Alert Watch on
09
16
09
16
09
16
Every 2 seconds, the radio
checks channels 9 & 16.
Triple Watch on
Monitoring Channel 25
wx
Every 7 seconds,
the radio checks
the last-used
weather channel.
WX Alert Watch on
09
16
09
16
09
16
Every 2 seconds, the radio
checks channels 9 & 16.
Triple Watch on
Monitoring Channel 25
If you activate Triple Watch while operating in normal mode, the radio checks channels 16 and 9 every two seconds; with Dual Watch turned on, the radio only checks channel 16. The radio will not check channels 16 or 9 while you are actively
transmitting; it waits until your transmission is nished and
then checks the channels.

Normal mode with Quad Watch

You can activate Weather Alert Watch and Triple Watch at the same time to monitor four channels at once (Quad Watch). The radio performs the Triple Watch and Weather Alert Watch checks at their scheduled time:
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Scan mode operaon
11
1008 1312
14
17
15
The radio scans about
5 channels in 0.5 seconds.
When it detects a signal, the radio stays
on the channel until you press the
Channel Up button or the signal stops.
Resume
scan
11
1008 1312
14
17
15
The radio scans about
5 channels in 0.5 seconds.
When it detects a signal, the radio stays
on the channel until you press the
Channel Up button or the signal stops.
Resume
scan
You can save channels into memory and then use scan mode to monitor those channels from lowest to highest. If the radio detects a signal on a channel, it stays on that channel as long as the signal is received; when the signal stops, the radio continues scanning.

Using the radio in scan mode

To activate scan mode, press Scan-Dual.
You must have at least two channels in memory to start a
scan. You cannot transmit while in scan mode.
To save a channel into memory, select the channel, then
press the MEM-SOS button. The MEM icon displays whenever you tune to that channel.
To remove a channel from memory, set the radio to that
channel, then press the MEM-SOS button. The MEM icon no longer displays.
When the radio stays on a channel, press Channel Up to
leave that channel and resume scanning. To end the scan, press the Scan-Dual button again; the
radio remains on the last scanned channel.

Scan mode with Weather Alert Watch

Every 7 seconds, the radio checks the last-used weather channel, then scans the next channel.
wx
WX Alert Watch on
Memory Channel Scan
08 252417151413121110 20
Every 7 seconds, the radio checks the last-used weather channel, then scans the next channel.
wx
WX Alert Watch on
Memory Channel Scan
08 252417151413121110 20
09 16
Every 2 seconds, the radio checks channels 9 & 16, then scans the next channel.
Triple
Watch on
Memory Channel Scan
08 252417151413121110 20
09 16
Every 2 seconds, the radio checks channels 9 & 16, then scans the next channel.
Triple
Watch on
Memory Channel Scan
08 252417151413121110 20
If you activate Weather Alert Watch while in scan mode, the radio checks the most recently-used weather channel every seven seconds, then continues scanning the next channel in memory:

Scan mode with Triple Watch or Dual Watch

If you activate Triple Watch while operating in scan mode, the radio checks channels 16 and 9 every two seconds, then goes on to scan the next channel; with Dual Watch turned on, the radio only checks channel 16:

Both Weather Alert and Triple/Dual Watch in scan mode

You can activate Weather Alert Watch and Triple/Dual Watch at the same time. The radio performs both checks at their scheduled time:
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09 16
Every 2 seconds, the radio checks channels 9 & 16, then scans the next channel.
Triple
Watch on
Every 7 seconds, the radio checks the last-used weather channel, then scans the next channel.
wx
WX Alert Watch on
Memory Channel Scan
08 252417151413121110 20
09 16
Every 2 seconds, the radio checks channels 9 & 16, then scans the next channel.
Triple
Watch on
Every 7 seconds, the radio checks the last-used weather channel, then scans the next channel.
wx
WX Alert Watch on
Memory Channel Scan
08 252417151413121110 20

Weather mode

The NOAA weather channels now cooperate with the FCC to alert you of other hazards besides weather (child abduction alerts, nuclear, biological, etc.). In weather mode, the radio monitors one of the ten NOAA weather channels. If any type of alert is received, the radio sounds an alert tone and the display blinks.

Using the radio in weather mode

You cannot transmit while in weather mode.
To enter weather mode, press the WX-Alert button.
To turn off the radio’s alert tone, press any button.
To cancel weather mode and return to the previous marine
channel, press the WX-Alert button again.

Weather mode with Weather Alert Watch

Because weather mode already monitors the weather channels, you don’t need Weather Alert Watch to check the weather channel every seven seconds. If you activate Weather Alert Watch while operating in weather mode, it operates as a type of “sleep mode”: the radio stays on the weather channel and mutes the speaker. If an alert is detected, the radio sounds an alert tone and turns the speaker back on. This mode is very useful when you are anchoring for the night but want to keep informed of hazards.

Weather mode with Triple Watch or Dual Watch

09
16
09
16
09
16
Every 2 seconds, the radio checks
channel 9, then channel 16
with Triple Watch on
Monitoring Weather Channel WX08
09
16
09
16
09
16
Every 2 seconds, the radio checks
channel 9, then channel 16
with Triple Watch on
Monitoring Weather Channel WX08
If you activate Triple Watch while operating in weather mode, the radio checks channels 16 and 9 every two seconds; with Dual Watch turned on, the radio only checks channel 16.

SETTING UP THE HARDWARE

Aaching the Antenna
The antenna detaches from the radio for easy shipping or storage. To attach the antenna to your radio, screw it tightly onto the anchor post at the top of the radio.
Installing the Baery
Your radio comes with a rechargeable Lithium Ion battery; for shipping safety, the battery is not installed at the factory. The empty alkaline battery case is installed as a placeholder.
Insert the hook on
1. the battery into the notch at the top of the battery compartment.
Note: Each time you remove
the battery, check the rubber seal around the battery compartment. Make sure the seal is seated in the groove and there is no dirt or debris on it. If the seal looks worn or damaged, contact customer service to order a replacement (see back cover page for contact information).
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Lower the battery until it rests
2. flat in the compartment.
Bring the battery latch up and
3. snap it into place.
Using the Alkaline
Baery Case
The radio also comes with a battery case that holds four AAA-type alkaline batteries (not included). You can use alkaline batteries as a backup for the Li-Ion battery so you can still use your radio while your Li-Ion battery is recharging. For best performance, Uniden recommends using extra­strength alkaline batteries such as Duracell Ultra® batteries.
NOTE: When using alkaline batteries, transmit power is
limited to a maximum of 2.5W.
Follow these steps to use the alkaline battery case:
Hold the lower part of the case in one hand with the three
1. battery contacts facing down. Use your thumb to hold the notch on the lower part of the case.
With your other hand, grip the upper
2. part of the case and lift the cover open.
Align the batteries’ positive and
3. negative terminals with the drawing on the case and snap each battery into place.
Insert the two hooks on the lower
4. part of the case into the notches on the cover; close the cover. (The cover fits snugly but you should not have to force it closed.)
NOTE: Each time you open the battery case, check the
rubber seal. Make sure the seal is seated in the groove and there is no dirt or debris on it. If the rubber seal looks worn or damaged, contact customer service to order a replacement (see the back cover page for contact information).
Install the alkaline battery case in your radio just as you do
5. the Li-Ion battery (see page E-13).
WARNING! The case is designed to prevent the accidental charging of alkaline batteries. Never use alkaline batteries in the radio without the battery case. Do not attempt to modify the battery case design.
Mounng the Charger
You can mount the charger on any at surface.
Use the two holes at the base of the charger
1. as a template to mark the drill holes.
Using a 1/8-inch (or 3 mm) drill bit, drill
2. two holes 1/2 inch (13mm) deep.
Use the provided screws to attach the
3. charger to the surface.
Charging the Baery
Your radio includes a charger and a rechargeable battery pack. Place your radio in the charger with the display facing forward. Make sure that the CHARGE LED on the charger turns orange.
Cautions:
Use only the battery and charger
supplied with this radio. Using a different charger or battery can damage the radio and create a risk of fire or shock.
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The charger is not waterproof. If the charger falls into the water, unplug it before attempting to remove it from the water. After you remove the charger from the water, please contact Customer Service (see the back cover page for contact information).
Wipe off dirt or shake water from your radio before
placing in the charger if your radio gets dirty or wet.
Important notes on charging the baery
Charge the battery fully before using the radio. When the
battery is completely charged, the CHARGE LED turns green.
Don’t use the charger when the ambient temperature is
below 0° C (32° F) or above 45° C (113° F). If the radio is powered down, the battery can charge in about
seven hours. (If the radio is powered on, the battery takes longer to charge.)
Aaching the Belt Clip
To attach the belt clip:
Rotate the belt clip so that the
1. finger indentation is towards the top of the radio.
Align the center of the clip with
2. the anchor post.
Place the clip on the post and
3. slide the clip upwards until it clicks into place.
To remove the belt clip:
Weak signals
No
Squelch
Medium Squelch
High
Squelch
Strong signals
Noise
Weak signals
No
Squelch
Medium Squelch
High
Squelch
Strong signals
Noise
Rotate the clip so that the finger indentation is towards the
1.
bottom of the radio. Slide the clip up until it comes free of the anchor post.
2.

USING YOUR RADIO

Changing the Volume

To increase the speaker volume, turn the Volume-Power knob clockwise; turn it counter-clockwise to decrease the volume.
Seng the Squelch Level
The squelch feature reduces static on the
speaker by ltering
out any background channel noise. At the lowest squelch level, the speaker plays all signals, including any channel noise.
Setting the squelch level higher lters out noise and lets only
actual radio transmissions through.
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While listening to a channel, adjust the SQUELCH knob until
the noise is ltered and you can hear only the transmission.
If you switch to a channel with a lot of noise or a weak trans­mission, you may need to readjust the squelch level again.
Note: Setting the squelch level too high may prevent you
from hearing weaker transmissions. If you are having difficulty hearing a transmission, try setting the squelch level lower.

Changing the Channel

Press the Channel Up and Channel Down buttons briey to scroll through the channels one channel at a time. Press and hold the Channel Up or Channel Down button to quickly scroll through the channels.

Making a Transmission

Select the channel you want to transmit on, then press and hold the Push to Talk button. Release the Push to Talk
button when you’re nished talking to let the other party
respond.
To prevent stuck microphone problems or situations where
the Push to Talk button is pushed accidentally, the radio limits your talk time to 5 minutes in a single transmission.
For the best sound quality, hold the microphone about two
inches away from your mouth. See the channel lists starting on page E-23 for a list of
receive-only channels.
Boosng the transmission power
In most situations, the 1 Watt transmission power is all you
need. If you nd yourself far away from other stations and
have trouble getting a response, you may need to boost the transmission power from 1 Watt to 2.5 Watts or 5 Watts:
Select the channel you want to transmit on.
1.
2.
Press the 1/2.5/5W button to switch to the next transmission power level (for example, from 5 Watt to 2.5 Watts; from 2.5 Watts to 1 Watt, or from 1 Watt back around to 5 Watts).
3.
The display shows the new transmission power in the lower left hand corner. The transmit power remains at the new setting until you change it again.
Note: Don’t forget to change the transmission setting back to 1 Watt when you move close to other stations.
Some channels (for example, channels 13 and 67) limit
the transmission power to 1 Watt. When you tune to a limited-power channel, the radio automatically switches to 1 Watt. See the channel lists starting on page E-23 for a list of power-restricted channels.
In an emergency, if you press and hold the Push to Talk
switch while briefly pressing the1/2.5/5W button, the power level changes from 1W to 5W for a Li-Ion battery or from 1W to 2.5W for alkaline batteries.
Seng the UIC Channel Mode
The radio comes preset to use the channels assigned for the US. If your current area uses Canadian or international channel assignments, press the UIC-Lock key to rotate through the US, Canadian, and international channels.

Using the Strobe SOS Light

You can use this radio in an emergency. If you turn on the strobe SOS high-intensity LED light on your radio, your radio will blink “S O S” in international Morse Code. This will make
it easier for rescuers to nd you faster.
Your radio operates normally when the SOS LED strobe is
activated.
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With the SOS LED in this state -
OFF
SOS
Continuous
Do This - For this -
Press and hold MEM­SOS key for 2 seconds.
Press and hold MEM­SOS key for 2 seconds.
Press and hold MEM­SOS key for 2 seconds.
SOS LED signals SOS in Morse code.
SOS LED remains on continuously.
SOS-LED turns off.
Turning the Key Beep On and O
Key beep is the tone that sounds when you press a key or a button. To turn off the key beep, press and hold the Channel Up or Channel Down button while turning ON the radio. To turn on the key beep, turn off the radio and then press and hold the Channel Up or Channel Down button while turning ON the radio again.

Using the External Speaker/Mic Jack

You can connect an optional external speaker-mic to this watertight jack. Unscrew the cap, which is held by the rubber cap-keeper to prevent loss. Insert the special gasketed plug and screw down the shell, which assures prevention of water entering the jack. Two available units are
HHSPM Speaker Mic
VOX100 Headset Mic.
For details, consult your dealer or contact Uniden directly (see back cover for contact information).

MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING

Due to its rugged design, your radio requires very little maintenance. However, it is a precision electronic instrument, so you should follow a few precautions:
If the antenna has been damaged, do not transmit except in an emergency situation. Transmitting with a defective antenna may cause further radio damage.
You are responsible for continued FCC technical compliance of your radio.
You should arrange for periodic performance checks with your Uniden dealer.
Common Quesons
Problem Things to Try
The radio won’t turn on. Charge the radio.
Don’t use the charger when the
­ambient temperature is below 0° C
The power LED on the charger doesn’t turn on.
The radio won’t transmit.
I can’t hear anything from the speaker. Noise comes out of the speaker all the time
(32° F) or above 45° C (113° F). Make sure the charging contacts on
­the radio and charger are clean.
Replace the battery.
-
Make sure you are not in weather or scan mode.
Make sure you are not trying to transmit on a receive-only channel or transmit at the wrong power level for this channel (see the channel lists starting on page E-23).
Check the battery power level; if it’s low, charge the battery before trying to transmit.
Make sure the duration of each transmission is less than 5 minutes. Adjust the squelch level; it is probably too high. Adjust the squelch level; it is probably too low.
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Problem Things to Try
I can transmit, but no one can hear me.
I’m not getting hazard alerts.
The display flashes, and I don’t know why.
Where can I find my radio’s serial number?
Check your UIC channel settings: does the area you are in use different channel assignments? Make sure Weather Alert Watch is turned on. The channel number on the display will flash if the radio is in a watch mode or in scan mode. Try turning off scanning, Weather Alert Watch, Triple Watch, or Dual Watch (see page E-7). The serial number is on a plate inside the battery compartment.

SPECIFICATIONS

General
Channels
Freq. Control PLL Freq. Tol. Transmit: 1.5 PPM (at 25°C)
Oper. Temp. -4°F (-20°C) to +122°F(+50°C) Antenna Flexible Whip Microphone Built-in Electret type Display Liquid Crystal Display Speaker 8Ω 0.5 Watt
Power Source
Size (without antenna)
Weight
All US/International/Canada marine channels
10 Weather channels
Receive: 1.5 PPM (at 25°C)
Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery
7.4V 1040 mAh
5.95 (H) x 2.56 (W) x 1.77 (D) inch 151 (H) x 65 (W) x 45 (D) mm
11.29 oz (320g) (w/battery and antenna)
Transmitter
Frequency Range 156~158 MHz Frequency Stability ±10 PPM Power Output 1.0 W & 2.5W & 5W Spurious Emissions 70 dBc Current Drain 1500 mA (5W)
Receiver
Double Conversion Super Heterodyne
Type
Frequency Range 156~164 MHz Sensitivity 0.20 μV for 12dB SINAD Squelch Sensitivity Threshold 0.12μV Audio Frequency
Response Adjacent Channel
Selectivity Audio Output Power 0.34 W @10% THD
Current Drain
Phase Locked Loop system for Local Oscillator
+6 dB @ 500 Hz; -6 dB @ 2000Hz
70 dB @ ±25 kHz
Squelched: 38 mA; Max. Audio: 160 mA

Channels and Frequencies (MHz)

US channel frequencies and names

US Marine Channels
Ch RX Freq TX Freq Status Name
1A 156.050 156.050 Simplex Vessel trafc system/commercial 5A 156.250 156.250 Simplex Vessel trafc system/commercial
6 156.300 156.300 Simplex Inter-ship safety
7A 156.350 156.350 Simplex Commercial
8 156.400 156.400 Simplex Commercial 9 156.450 156.450 Simplex Non commercial
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Uniden MHS125 Radio Owner’s Manual
US Marine Channels
Ch RX Freq TX Freq Status Name
10 156.500 156.500 Simplex Commercial
11 156.550 156.550 Simplex Vessel trafc system 12 156.600 156.600 Simplex Vessel trafc system 13 156.650 156.650 Simplex, 1W Bridge to bridge 14 156.700 156.700 Simplex Vessel trafc system 15 156.750 Inhibit Receive only Environmental 16 156.800 156.800 Simplex Distress, safety, and calling 17 156.850 156.850 Simplex, 1W Govt maritime control
18A 156.900 156.900 Simplex Commercial 19A 156.950 156.950 Simplex Commercial
20 161.600 157.000 Duplex Port operation
20A 157.000 157.000 Simplex Port operation 21A 157.050 157.050 Simplex Coast guard only 22A 157.100 157.100 Simplex Coast guard 23A 157.150 157.150 Simplex Coast guard only
24 161.800 157.200 Duplex Marine operator 25 161.850 157.250 Duplex Marine operator 26 161.900 157.300 Duplex Marine operator 27 161.950 157.350 Duplex Marine operator 28 162.000 157.400 Duplex Marine operator
63A 156.175 156.175 Simplex Vessel trafc system 65A 156.275 156.275 Simplex Port operation 66A 156.325 156.325 Simplex Port operation
67 156.375 156.375 Simplex, 1W Bridge To Bridge 68 156.425 156.425 Simplex Non Commercial 69 156.475 156.475 Simplex Non Commercial 70 156.525 Inhibit Receive only Digital Selective Calling 71 156.575 156.575 Simplex Non Commercial 72 156.625 156.625 Simplex Non Commercial (Ship-Ship) 73 156.675 156.675 Simplex Port Operation 74 156.725 156.725 Simplex Port Operation
US Marine Channels
Ch RX Freq TX Freq Status Name
75 156.775 156.775 Simplex, 1W Port Operation 76 156.825 156.825 Simplex, 1W Port Operation
77 156.875 156.875 Simplex, 1W Port Operation (Ship-Ship) 78A 156.925 156.925 Simplex Non Commercial 79A 156.975 156.975 Simplex Commercial 80A 157.025 157.025 Simplex Commercial 81A 157.075 157.075 Simplex Coast Guard 82A 157.125 157.125 Simplex Coast Guard 83A 157.175 157.175 Simplex Government
84 161.825 157.225 Duplex Marine Operator
85 161.875 157.275 Duplex Marine Operator
86 161.925 157.325 Duplex Marine Operator
87 157.375 157.375 Simplex Marine Operator
88 157.425 157.425 Simplex Commercial (Ship-Ship)

Canadian channel frequencies and names

Canadian Marine Channels
Ch RX Freq TX Freq Status Name
1 160.650 156.050 Duplex Marine Operator 2 160.700 156.100 Duplex Marine Operator
3 160.750 156.150 Duplex Marine Operator 4A 156.200 156.200 Simplex Canadian Coast Guard 5A 156.250 156.250 Simplex Vessel Trafc System
6 156.300 156.300 Simplex Inter-Ship Safety 7A 156.350 156.350 Simplex Commercial
8 156.400 156.400 Simplex Commercial
9 156.450 156.450 Simplex Boater Calling Channel 10 156.500 156.500 Simplex Commercial 11 156.550 156.550 Simplex Vessel Trafc System 12 156.600 156.600 Simplex Vessel Trafc System
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Canadian Marine Channels
Ch RX Freq TX Freq Status Name
13 156.650 156.650 Simplex, 1W Bridge To Bridge 14 156.700 156.700 Simplex Vessel Trafc System 15 156.750 156.750 Simplex, 1W Environmental 16 156.800 156.800 Simplex Distress, safety, calling
17 156.850 156.850 Simplex, 1W State Control 18A 156.900 156.900 Simplex Commercial 19A 156.950 156.950 Simplex Canadian Coast Guard
20 161.600 157.000 Duplex, 1W Port Operation 21A 157.050 157.050 Simplex Canadian Coast Guard 22A 157.100 157.100 Simplex Canadian Coast Guard
23 161.750 157.150 Duplex Canadian Coast Guard
24 161.800 157.200 Duplex Marine Operator
25 161.850 157.250 Duplex Marine Operator
26 161.900 157.300 Duplex Marine Operator
27 161.950 157.350 Duplex Marine Operator
28 162.000 157.400 Duplex Marine Operator
60 160.625 156.025 Duplex Marine Operator 61A 156.075 156.075 Simplex Canadian Coast Guard 62A 156.125 156.125 Simplex Canadian Coast Guard 63A 156.175 156.175 Simplex Port Operation
64 160.825 156.225 Duplex Marine Operator 64A 156.225 156.225 Simplex Port Operation 65A 156.275 156.275 Simplex Port Operation 66A 156.325 156.325 Simplex, 1W Port Operation
67 156.375 156.375 Simplex Bridge To Bridge
68 156.425 156.425 Simplex Non Commercial
69 156.475 156.475 Simplex Non Commercial
70 156.525 Inhibit Receive only Digital Selective Calling
71 156.575 156.575 Simplex Non Commercial
72 156.625 156.625 Simplex Non Commercial
73 156.675 156.675 Simplex Port Operation
Canadian Marine Channels
Ch RX Freq TX Freq Status Name
74 156.725 156.725 Simplex Port Operation 75 156.775 156.775 Simplex, 1W Port Operation 76 156.825 156.825 Simplex, 1W Port Operation
77 156.875 156.875 Simplex, 1W Port Operation 78A 156.925 156.925 Simplex Inter Ship 79A 156.975 156.975 Simplex Inter Ship 80A 157.025 157.025 Simplex Inter Ship 81A 157.075 157.075 Simplex Canadian Coast Guard 82A 157.125 157.125 Simplex Canadian Coast Guard
83 161.775 157.175 Duplex Canadian Coast Guard 83A 157.175 157.175 Simplex Canadian Coast Guard
84 161.825 157.225 Duplex Marine Operator
85 161.875 157.275 Duplex Marine Operator
86 161.925 157.325 Duplex Marine Operator
87 157.375 157.375 Simplex Port Operation
88 157.425 157.425 Simplex Port Operation
Internaonal channel frequencies and names
International Marine Channels
Ch RX Freq TX Freq Status Name
1 160.650 156.050 Duplex Marine operator 2 160.700 156.100 Duplex Marine operator 3 160.750 156.150 Duplex Marine operator 4 160.800 156.200 Duplex Marine operator 5 160.850 156.250 Duplex Marine operator 6 156.300 156.300 Simplex Inter-ship safety 7 160.950 156.350 Duplex Marine operator 8 156.400 156.400 Simplex Commercial (ship-ship) 9 156.450 156.450 Simplex Boater calling channel
10 156.500 156.500 Simplex Commercial
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International Marine Channels
Ch RX Freq TX Freq Status Name
11 156.550 156.550 Simplex Vessel trafc system 12 156.600 156.600 Simplex Vessel trafc system 13 156.650 156.650 Simplex Bridge to bridge 14 156.700 156.700 Simplex Vessel trafc system 15 156.750 156.750 Simplex, 1W Environmental 16 156.800 156.800 Simplex Distress, safety, calling 17 156.850 156.850 Simplex, 1W Govt maritime control 18 161.500 156.900 Duplex Port operation 19 161.550 156.950 Duplex Commercial 20 161.600 157.000 Duplex Port operation 21 161.650 157.050 Duplex Port operation 22 161.700 157.100 Duplex Port operation 23 161.750 157.150 Duplex Marine operator 24 161.800 157.200 Duplex Marine operator 25 161.850 157.250 Duplex Marine operator 26 161.900 157.300 Duplex Marine operator 27 161.950 157.350 Duplex Marine operator 28 162.000 157.400 Duplex Marine operator 60 160.625 156.025 Duplex Marine operator 61 160.675 156.075 Duplex Marine operator 62 160.725 156.125 Duplex Marine operator 63 160.775 156.175 Duplex Marine operator 64 160.825 156.225 Duplex Marine operator 65 160.875 156.275 Duplex Marine operator 66 160.925 156.325 Duplex Marine operator 67 156.375 156.375 Simplex Bridge to bridge 68 156.425 156.425 Simplex Non commercial 69 156.475 156.475 Simplex Non commercial 70 156.525 Inhibit Receive only Digital Selective Calling 71 156.575 156.575 Simplex Non commercial 72 156.625 156.625 Simplex Non commercial
International Marine Channels
Ch RX Freq TX Freq Status Name
73 156.675 156.675 Simplex Port operation 74 156.725 156.725 Simplex Port operation 75 156.775 156.775 Simplex, 1W Port operation 76 156.825 156.825 Simplex, 1W Port operation 77 156.875 156.875 Simplex Port operation (ship-ship) 78 161.525 156.925 Duplex Port operation 79 161.575 156.975 Duplex Port operation 80 161.625 157.025 Duplex Port operation 81 161.675 157.075 Duplex Port operation 82 161.725 157.125 Duplex Port operation 83 161.775 157.175 Duplex Port operation 84 161.825 157.225 Duplex Marine operator 85 161.875 157.275 Duplex Marine operator 86 161.925 157.325 Duplex Marine operator 87 157.375 157.375 Simplex Marine operator 88 157.425 157.425 Simplex Marine operator

Weather channel frequencies and names

Channel RX
WX01 162.5500 WX02 162.4000 WX03 162.4750 WX04 162.4250 WX05 162.4500 WX06 162.5000 WX07 162.5250 WX08 161.6500 WX09 161.7750 WX10 163.2750
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REGULATIONS AND SAFETY WARNINGS

WARNING! Read this information before using the radio.WARNING! Read this information before using the radio.
Marime Radio Services Operaon
Warning! This transmitter will operate on channels/ frequencies that have restricted use in the United States. The channel assignments include frequencies assigned for exclusive use of the U.S. Coast Guard, use in Canada, and use in international waters. Operation on these frequencies without proper authorization is strictly forbidden. See pages E-23 through E-29 for tables of the available channels and their uses. If you are still not certain which channels to use, see the FCC maritime radio page at the FCC website (http://wireless.fcc.gov/marine/) or contact the FCC Call Center at 1-888-CALL-FCC. For individuals requiring a license, such as commercial users, you should obtain a
license application from your nearest FCC eld ofce (for US
users) or Industry Canada (for Canadian users).

Basic Radio Guidelines

You should familiarize yourself with the rules on marine radios and be aware of which rules apply to your boat. Complete guidelines for all ship and marine radio types can be found at the US Coast Guard website under the topic Radio Info for Boaters (the direct link is http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/marcomms/boater.htm). Here are a few guidelines that affect nearly all boaters.
If you have a VHF radio on your boat, you must maintain a
watch on channel 16 (156.800 MHz) whenever the radio is not being used to communicate. Starting in 2004, if a radio is carried, it must be on and set to channel 16 whenever your boat is underway.
If you hear a distress call, wait a few minutes to let a shore
station or Coast Guard vessel respond. If no other station
has responded after 5 minutes, you must respond to the distress call.
Do not make false mayday or distress calls as a prank or to
test your radio. (This is essentially like making a false 9-1-1 call; you may be subject to fines.)
FCC/Industry Canada Informaon
Certification: FCC Part 80 or RSS-182
Output Power: 5W Emission: 16K0F3E
Transmitter Frequency Range: 156.025-157.425 MHz
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference.
Unauthorized changes or modications to this equipment
may void compliance with the FCC Rules. Any change
or modication must be approved in writing by Uniden. Changes or modications not approved by Uniden could void
the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
FCC RF Exposure Informaon
In August 1996 the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) of the United States with its action in Report and Order FCC 96-326 adopted an updated safety standard for human exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic energy emitted by FCC regulated transmitters. Those guidelines are consistent with the safety standard previously set by both U.S. and international standards bodies. The design of the radio complies with the FCC guidelines and these international standards.
Never allow children to operate the radio without adult supervision and the knowledge of the following guidelines.
WARNING! It is up to the user to properly operate this radio transmitter to insure safe operation. Please adhere to the following:
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Use only the supplied or an approved antenna.
Unauthorized antennas, modifications, or attachments could impair call quality, damage the radio, or violate FCC regulations.
Do not use the radio with a damaged antenna. If a damaged
antenna comes into contact with the skin, a minor burn may result. Please contact your local dealer for a replacement antenna.
Body-Worn Operaon
This device was tested for typical body-worn operations using the supplied belt-clip. To maintain compliance with FCC RF exposure requirements, body-worn operations are restricted to the supplied belt-clip. For hand-held operation, the radio should be held 1 inch from the user’s face. The use of accessories that do not satisfy these requirements may not comply with FCC RF exposure requirements and should be avoided. For more information about RF exposure, please visit the FCC website at www.fcc.gov.
Lithium Ion Baery Warning
This equipment contains a rechargeable Lithium Ion battery. The rechargeable Lithium Ion battery contained in this
equipment may explode if disposed of in a re.
Do not short-circuit the battery. Do not charge the rechargeable battery used in this equip-
ment in any charger other than the one specied in the
owner’s manual. Using another charger may damage the battery or cause the battery to explode.
NOTE: Li-Ion batteries must be recycled or disposed of properly.
Avoid exposing the battery (whether attached to the radio or not) to direct sunlight, heated cars, or temperatures
below -4°F (-20°C) or above +140°F (+60°C). Exposing the chemical contained within the battery pack to temperatures above +140°F (+60°C) may cause the battery to rupture, fail, or reduce performance.
In case of exposure to the cell contents, wash the affected area thoroughly, and seek medical attention.

Three Year Limited Warranty

WARRANTOR: UNIDEN AMERICA CORP. (“Uniden”) ELEMENTS OF WARRANTY: Uniden warrants, for three
years, to the original retail owner, this Uniden Product to be free from defects in materials and craftsmanship with only the limitations or exclusions set out below.
WARRANTY DURATION: This warranty to the original user shall terminate and be of no further effect 36 months after the date of original retail sale. The warranty is invalid if the Product is (A) damaged or not maintained as reasonable
or necessary, (B) modied, altered, or used as part of any conversion kits, subassemblies, or any congurations not
sold by Uniden, (C) improperly installed, (D) serviced or repaired by someone other than an authorized Uniden service center for a defect or malfunction covered by this warranty, (E) used in any conjunction with equipment or parts or as part of any system not manufactured by Uniden, or (F) installed or programmed by anyone other than as detailed by the Operating Guide for this product.
STATEMENT OF REMEDY: In the event that the product does not conform to this warranty at any time while this war­ranty is in effect, warrantor will repair the defect and return it to you without charge for parts, service, or any other cost (except shipping and handling) incurred by warrantor or its representatives in connection with the performance of this warranty. THE LIMITED WARRANTY SET FORTH ABOVE IS THE SOLE AND ENTIRE WARRANTY PERTAINING TO THE PRODUCT AND IS IN LIEU OF AND EXCLUDES ALL
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OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY NATURE WHATSOEVER, WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR ARISING BY OPERATION OF LAW, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER OR PROVIDE FOR THE REIMBURSEMENT OR PAYMENT OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. Some states do not allow this exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
LEGAL REMEDIES: This warranty gives you specic legal
rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. This warranty is void outside the United States of America.
PROCEDURE FOR OBTAINING PERFORMANCE OF WARRANTY: If, after following the instructions in this Operating Guide you are certain that the Product is defective, pack the Product carefully (preferably in its original packaging). Include evidence of original purchase and a note describing the defect that has caused you to return it. The Product should be shipped freight prepaid, by traceable means, or delivered, to warrantor at:
Uniden America Corporation Parts and Service Division 4700 Amon Carter Boulevard Fort Worth, TX, 76155
(800) 554-3988
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Uniden MHS125 Radio Owner’s Manual
QUESTIONS?
Visit our website at
www.uniden.com or
call 1-800-297-1023.
QUESTIONS?
Contactez-nous au
www.uniden.com ou
appelez 1-800-297-1023.
Printed in China
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Imprimé en Chine
Uniden MHS125 Radio Owners Manual
UTZZ01631ZA
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