Cobra Electronics MRHH425 Handheld Marine Transceiver with GMRS User Manual

Cobra Electronics Corporation Handheld Marine Transceiver with GMRS

Contents

users manual 1

A1 EnglishOur Thanks to You andCustomer AssistanceIntroductionVHF MARINE RADIOMR HH425LI VPPrinted in China Part No. 480-344-POwner’s ManualNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®EnglishOur Thanks to You •Thank you for purchasing a CobraMarine®VHF/GMRS Dual Band radio. Properlyused, this Cobra®product will give you many years of reliable service.How Your CobraMarine VHF/GMRS Radio WorksThis dual band radio is a battery-powered portable transceiver for use afloat or onland. In Marine VHF mode it gives you two-way vessel-to-vessel and vessel-to-shore station communications, primarily for safety and secondarily for navigationand operational purposes. In GMRS mode it allows you to reach other GMRScapable radios for short-distance two-way land mobile communication. This mode isnormally used for small group communication such as in a general residential areaor during recreational group outings. Note: GMRS radio usage requires an FCCLicense.Besides two-way communications, the radio can provide quick access to receive all the NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) weatherchannels and alert you to weather emergencies with a tone on a weather channelyou can select for your area.Customer Assistance •Should you encounter any problems with this product, or not understand its many features, please refer to this owner’s manual. If you require furtherassistance after reading this manual, Cobra Electronics offers the following customerassistance services:For Assistance in the U.S.A. Automated Help Desk English only.24 hours a day, 7 days a week 773-889-3087 (phone).Customer Assistance Operators English and Spanish.8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central Time Mon. through Fri. (except holidays) 773-889-3087 (phone).Questions English and Spanish.Faxes can be received at 773-622-2269 (fax).Technical Assistance English only.www.cobra.com (on-line: Frequently Asked Questions).English and Spanish. productinfo@cobra.com (e-mail).For Assistance Outside the U.S.A.Contact Your Local DealerCustomer Assistance©2007 Cobra Electronics Corporation™ 6500 West Cortland StreetChicago, Illinois 60707 USAwww.cobra.comMRHH425VPCover.qxp:QXP-1058736909.qxp 10/26/06 1:39 PM Page A1
A1 EnglishOur Thanks to You andCustomer AssistanceIntroductionVHF MARINE RADIOMR HH425LI VPPrinted in China Part No. 480-344-POwner’s ManualNothing Comes Close to a Cobra®EnglishOur Thanks to You •Thank you for purchasing a CobraMarine®VHF/GMRS Dual Band radio. Properlyused, this Cobra®product will give you many years of reliable service.How Your CobraMarine VHF/GMRS Radio WorksThis dual band radio is a battery-powered portable transceiver for use afloat or onland. In Marine VHF mode it gives you two-way vessel-to-vessel and vessel-to-shore station communications, primarily for safety and secondarily for navigationand operational purposes. In GMRS mode it allows you to reach other GMRScapable radios for short-distance two-way land mobile communication. This mode isnormally used for small group communication such as in a general residential areaor during recreational group outings. Note: GMRS radio usage requires an FCCLicense.Besides two-way communications, the radio can provide quick access to receive all the NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) weatherchannels and alert you to weather emergencies with a tone on a weather channelyou can select for your area.Customer Assistance •Should you encounter any problems with this product, or not understand its many features, please refer to this owner’s manual. If you require furtherassistance after reading this manual, Cobra Electronics offers the following customerassistance services:For Assistance in the U.S.A. Automated Help Desk English only.24 hours a day, 7 days a week 773-889-3087 (phone).Customer Assistance Operators English and Spanish.8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central Time Mon. through Fri. (except holidays) 773-889-3087 (phone).Questions English and Spanish.Faxes can be received at 773-622-2269 (fax).Technical Assistance English only.www.cobra.com (on-line: Frequently Asked Questions).English and Spanish. productinfo@cobra.com (e-mail).For Assistance Outside the U.S.A.Contact Your Local DealerCustomer Assistance©2007 Cobra Electronics Corporation™ 6500 West Cortland StreetChicago, Illinois 60707 USAwww.cobra.comMRHH425VPCover.qxp:QXP-1058736909.qxp 10/26/06 1:39 PM Page A1
A3 EnglishBacklit LCD Screenand Product FeaturesIntroductionA2 EnglishRadio Controls and IndicatorsIntroductionBacklit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen •InstantChannel 16/9 ButtonSCANButtonSquelchControlCall/Enter ButtonWrist StrapConnectorON/OFF/VolumeControlExternal Speaker/MicrophoneCoverDual BandAntennaTri-WatchButtonBacklight/Key LockButtonMemory/EscapeButtonChannel UpButtonChannelDownButtonUIC Active Channel Map IconsRoger Beep IconBattery Power IconSimplex Operation IconVoice Activated Transmit IconMemory ChannelMemory Channel IconCall Tone VibrAlert®IconWeather Alert IconWeather IconLow/Medium/High Power IconsTri-Watch IconFrequencyBand IconsTransmit and Receive IconsButton Lock IconScan IconKey Tone IconPower Level/WeatherButtonSpeakerUSA/International/Canada ChannelsAllows operation on any of the threedifferent VHF channel maps establishedfor these areas. Instant access to allMarine VHF channels, 24 hours a day.15 GMRS ChannelsSeven (7) shared with GMRS/FRS andeight (8) GMRS only.All NOAA Weather ChannelsInstant access to all National WeatherChannels, 24 hours a day.Emergency Weather AlertCan alert you with an audible tone and visual alarm if threatening weather is nearby.Submersible to JIS7 StandardsWaterproof to 3.3 ft (1 m) of water for 30 minutes.Button/Key LockPrevents accidental setting changes when button lock is set.BandsExclusive dual VHF (Very HighFrequency) and GMRS (General MobileRadio Service) bands allow you to usedifferent frequencies while using thisradio either on land or water. VHF can beused for two-way vessel-to-vessel andvessel-to-shore station communications.GMRS can be used for small groupcommunication such as in a generalresidential area or during recreationalgroup outings. Note: GMRS radio usagerequires an FCC License.Power SettingsSelectable power settings produce 1, 3 or 5* watts of output power for near ordistant calling.121 Privacy CodesAllows semi-secure communications,creating up to 1815 privacy combinations(38 CTCSS codes-83 DCS codes).* Units sold in Canada will not transmit with 5watts of power on GMRS frequencies inCanada.Product Features •Belt ClipEngagementBacklitLCDScreenPush toTalkButtonBand (VHF/GMRS)ButtonRewind-Say-Again™ButtonRewind IconActive ChannelNumbersMicrophoneBatteryBatteryClipCTCSS and DCS SubcodesMRHH425VPCover.qxp:QXP-1058736909.qxp 10/26/06 1:39 PM Page A2
A3 EnglishBacklit LCD Screenand Product FeaturesIntroductionA2 EnglishRadio Controls and IndicatorsIntroductionBacklit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen •InstantChannel 16/9 ButtonSCANButtonSquelchControlCall/Enter ButtonWrist StrapConnectorON/OFF/VolumeControlExternal Speaker/MicrophoneCoverDual BandAntennaTri-WatchButtonBacklight/Key LockButtonMemory/EscapeButtonChannel UpButtonChannelDownButtonUIC Active Channel Map IconsRoger Beep IconBattery Power IconSimplex Operation IconVoice Activated Transmit IconMemory ChannelMemory Channel IconCall Tone VibrAlert®IconWeather Alert IconWeather IconLow/Medium/High Power IconsTri-Watch IconFrequencyBand IconsTransmit and Receive IconsButton Lock IconScan IconKey Tone IconPower Level/WeatherButtonSpeakerUSA/International/Canada ChannelsAllows operation on any of the threedifferent VHF channel maps establishedfor these areas. Instant access to allMarine VHF channels, 24 hours a day.15 GMRS ChannelsSeven (7) shared with GMRS/FRS andeight (8) GMRS only.All NOAA Weather ChannelsInstant access to all National WeatherChannels, 24 hours a day.Emergency Weather AlertCan alert you with an audible tone and visual alarm if threatening weather is nearby.Submersible to JIS7 StandardsWaterproof to 3.3 ft (1 m) of water for 30 minutes.Button/Key LockPrevents accidental setting changes when button lock is set.BandsExclusive dual VHF (Very HighFrequency) and GMRS (General MobileRadio Service) bands allow you to usedifferent frequencies while using thisradio either on land or water. VHF can beused for two-way vessel-to-vessel andvessel-to-shore station communications.GMRS can be used for small groupcommunication such as in a generalresidential area or during recreationalgroup outings. Note: GMRS radio usagerequires an FCC License.Power SettingsSelectable power settings produce 1, 3 or 5* watts of output power for near ordistant calling.121 Privacy CodesAllows semi-secure communications,creating up to 1815 privacy combinations(38 CTCSS codes-83 DCS codes).* Units sold in Canada will not transmit with 5watts of power on GMRS frequencies inCanada.Product Features •Belt ClipEngagementBacklitLCDScreenPush toTalkButtonBand (VHF/GMRS)ButtonRewind-Say-Again™ButtonRewind IconActive ChannelNumbersMicrophoneBatteryBatteryClipCTCSS and DCS SubcodesMRHH425VPCover.qxp:QXP-1058736909.qxp 10/26/06 1:39 PM Page A2
Product FeaturesIntroductionChannel Scan/Memory ScanUse to scan through all channels or allselected memory locations to findconversations in progress.Instant Channel 16/9Provides instant access to priorityChannel 16 and calling Channel 9.Tri-WatchLets you monitor three (3) channels at once — Channel 16 and two (2) user-programmable channels.Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery PackProvides extended operating timecompared to alkaline batteries with nomemory effect.120V/12V Charger IncludedUse to charge battery pack in the radio,at home, in a car or in a boat.Rapid-Charge Locking Desktop ChargerAllows charging of batteries at home, caror boat. Vertical or horizontal mounting.Cobra Exclusive Rewind-Say-Again™A dedicated button allows user to replayup to the last 20 seconds of audio. Pressthe dedicated rewind button and CobraVHF will replay the last 20 seconds of theaudio from your VHF.Call Tones (Selectable)10 selectable call tones.Hands-Free Operation Voice Activation(VOX)“Hands-Free” automatic transmissionwhen you speak.Emergency Weather Alert with/SAMEReceive NOAA alerts when threateningweather is nearby. SAME alerts providenotification of local severe weatherconditions.Speaker/Mic JackAllows connecting optional Cobra LapelSpeaker/Mic and other Cobraaccessories.Unlimited Memory ChannelsAllows programming of unlimited VHFand GMRS memory channels.Signal Strength MeterShows the strength of incoming oroutgoing signals.Illuminated ButtonsAllows high visibility of all functionbuttons.Roger Beep Tone (Selectable)Confirmation tone indicates thecompletion of the user’s transmissionand signals to others it is clear to talk. Onor Off selectable.Patented VibrAlert®Provides a silent alert for incoming calls.Ideal for noisy or all-quiet environments.Product Features (continued) •A4 EnglishMRHH425VPCover.qxp:QXP-1058736909.qxp 10/26/06 1:39 PM Page A3
Introduction1Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Introduction Table of ContentsIntroductionOur Thanks to You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1Radio Controls and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2Backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3Product Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3Important Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsRecommendations for Marine Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5VHF Marine FCC Licensing Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6VHF Marine Radio Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8VHF Marine Voice Calling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10VHF Marine Radiotelephone Calls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12VHF Marine Emergency Messages and Distress Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . 13VHF Marine Channel Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18GMRS Radio ProtocolsGMRS Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28GMRS FCC Licensing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28GMRS/FRS Frequency Allocation and Compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29NOAA/SAME Weather AlertsNOAA Weather Channels and Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30NOAA Test Alert System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) Alerts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32InstallationIncluded in this Package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Antenna, Wrist Strap and Belt Clip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Batteries and Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Operating Your RadioGetting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Setup Mode Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44Standby/Receive and Transmit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Advanced Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73Warranty and Trademark AcknowledgementLimited 3-Year Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74Trademark Acknowledgement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74Customer ServiceProduct Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76MRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:35 PM Page 1
2EnglishIntroduction Important Safety InformationIntroductionImportant Safety Information •Before installing and using your CobraMarine VHF/GMRS Dual Band radio, pleaseread these general precautions and warnings.Warning and Notice StatementsTo make the most of this radio, it must be installed and used properly. Please read the installation and operating instructions carefully before installing andusing the radio. Special attention must be paid to the WARNING and NOTICEstatements in this manual.WARNINGStatements identify conditions that could result in personal injury or loss of life.NOTICEStatements identify conditions that could cause damage to the radio or otherequipment.Safety Training InformationThis CobraMarine®radio is designed for, and classified as, “Occupational Use Only.” The radio must only be used in the course of employment by individuals aware ofboth the hazards and the ways to minimize those hazards. This radio is NOTintended for use in an uncontrolled environment by the “General Population.”This radio has been tested and complies with the FCC RF exposure limits for“Occupational Use Only.” This CobraMarine VHF/GMRS Dual Band radio alsocomplies with the following guidelines and standards regarding RF energy andelectromagnetic energy levels as well as evaluation of those levels for human exposure: FCC OET Bulletin 65 Edition 97-01 Supplement C, Evaluating Compliance withFCC Guidelines for Human Exposure to Radio Frequency ElectromagneticFields. American National Standards Institute (C95.1-1992), IEEE Standard for SafetyLevels with Respect to Human Exposure to Radio Frequency ElectromagneticFields, 3 kHz to 300 GHz. American National Standards Institute (C95.3-1992), IEEE RecommendedPractice for the Measurement of Potentially Hazardous Electromagnetic Fields — RF and Microwave.MRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:35 PM Page 2
Introduction3Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®Introduction Important Safety InformationThe following WARNINGS and NOTICE information will make you aware of RFexposure hazards and how to ensure you operate the radio within the FCC RFexposure limits established for the radio.WARNINGSYour radio generates electromagnetic RF (radio frequency) energy when it is transmitting. To ensure that you and those around you are not exposed to excessive amounts of that energy, DO NOT touch the antenna when transmittingand KEEP yourself and all others on your vessel the required distance away fromthe antenna while transmitting. See page 33 in the antenna requirements sectionfor further information.DO NOT operate the radio without a proper antenna or equivalent dummy load attached. Doing so may expose you to excessive RF energy and will damage the radio.DO NOT transmit more than 50% of the time the radio is in use — 50% duty cycle. The radio is transmitting when the Talk button is pressed and the transmit information shows on the LCD screen.ALWAYS use only Cobra authorized accessories.DO NOT operate the radio in an explosive atmosphere, near blasting sites, or in any area where signs are posted prohibiting radio transmissions.NEVER connect the transceiver directly to AC power. It can be a fire hazard, maycause an electric shock and may damage the transceiver.NEVER mount the transceiver or microphone/speaker where they might interferewith operation of your vessel or cause injury.DO NOT allow children or anyone unfamiliar with proper procedures to operate theradio without supervision.Failure to observe any of these warnings may cause you to exceed FCC RF exposure limits or create other dangerous conditions.MRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:35 PM Page 3
4EnglishIntroduction Important Safety InformationIntroductionNOTICEYour radio is waterproof only when the antenna and batteries are properlyinstalled.AVOID using or storing the radio at temperatures below -4˚F (-20˚C) or above140˚F (60˚C).KEEP your radio at least 3 ft (0,9 m) away from your vessel’s magnetic navigationcompass.DO NOT attempt to service any internal parts yourself. Have any necessary service performed by a qualified technician.This radio is supplied with a lithium-ion (LiON) rechargeable battery pack.Use only the Cobra charger to recharge lithium-ion (LiON) batteries in the radio.Do not short circuit the battery pack.When replacing the batteries, dispose of the old batteries properly. Batteries mayexplode if disposed of in a fire.Changes or modifications to your radio MAY VOID its compliance with FCC (FederalCommunications Commission) rules and make it illegal to use.MRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:35 PM Page 4
5Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®IntroductionRecommendations for Marine CommunicationRecommendations for Marine Communication •The frequencies your radio uses are set aside to enhance safety afloat and for vesselnavigation and operational messages over a range suitable for nearshore voyages. Ifthe 5 watt maximum output of your radio is not sufficient for the distances youtravel from the coast, consider installing a CobraMarine fixed mount radio with up to25 watts of output power. (Visit www.cobra.com or your local dealer for modelavailability.)If traveling far offshore, you should consider adding even more powerful radioequipment such as HF single side band or satellite radio for your vessel.The U.S. Coast Guard does not endorse cellular telephones as substitutes for marineradios. They generally cannot communicate with rescue vessels and, if you make adistress call on a cellular telephone, only the party you call will be able to hear you.Additionally, cellular telephones may have limited coverage over water and can behard to locate. If you do not know where you are, the Coast Guard will have difficultyfinding you if you are using a cellular telephone.However, cellular telephones can have a place on board where cellular coverage is available — to allow social conversations and keep the marine frequenciesuncluttered and available for their intended uses.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:35 PM Page 5
6EnglishIntroductionVHF Marine FCC LicensingInformationVHF Marine FCC Licensing Information •CobraMarine VHF radios comply with the FCC (Federal CommunicationsCommission) requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Service.The radio operates on all currently allocated marine channels and is switchable foruse according to U.S.A., International or Canadian regulations. It features instantaccess to emergency Channel 16 and calling Channel 9 as well as NOAA (NationalOceanic and Atmospheric Administration) All Hazards Radio with Alert that can beaccessed by pressing one (1) button.Licensed users will be issued a “Call Sign” by the FCC, which should be used forstation identification when operating the radio.Station LicenseAn FCC ship station license is no longer required for any vessel traveling in U.S.A.waters which uses a VHF marine radio, RADAR or EPIRB (Emergency PositionIndicating Radio Beacon), and which is not required to carry radio equipment.However, any vessel required to carry a marine radio on an international voyage,carrying an HF single side band radiotelephone, carrying a marine satellite terminalmust obtain a station license.For licensing information and application forms, please call the FCC Hotline at 800-418-FORM. Request form #159 and form #605. Questions regarding the licenseapplication should be directed to the FCC at 888-CALL-FCC. FCC license forms andapplications for ship and land applications can be downloaded through the Internetat: www.fcc.gov.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:35 PM Page 6
Introduction7Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®VHF Marine FCC LicensingInformationInternational Station LicenseIf your vessel will be entering the sovereign waters of a country other than theU.S.A. or Canada, you should contact that country’s communications regulatoryauthority for licensing information.Radio Call SignCurrently, the FCC does not require recreational boaters to have a license. TheUnited States Coast Guard recommends that the boat’s registration number andstate of registry (e.g., IL 1234 AB) be used as a call sign and be clearly visible onthe vessel.Canadian Ship Station LicenseYou need a Radio Operator’s Certificate if your vessel is operated in Canadian waters.Radio Operator training and certification is available from the Canadian PowerSquadron. Visit their website (http://www.cps-ecp.ca/english/newradiocard.html),contact the nearest field office or write: Industry of Canada, Radio RegulatoryBranch, Attn: DOSP, 300 Slater Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0C8.User Responsibility and Operating LocationsAll users are responsible for observing domestic and foreign government regulationsand are subject to severe penalties for violations. The VHF frequencies on your radioare reserved for marine use and require a special license to operate from land,including when your boat is on its trailer.NOTEThis device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to thefollowing two (2) conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference thatmay cause undesired operation.FCC Warnings: Replacement or substitution of transistors, regular diodes orother parts of a unique nature, with parts other than those recommended byCobra may cause a violation of the technical regulations of part 80 of the FCCRules, or violation of type acceptance requirements of part 2 of the rules.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:35 PM Page 7
8EnglishIntroductionVHF Marine RadioProceduresVHF Marine Radio Procedures •Maintain Your Watch Whenever your boat is underway, the radio must be turned On and be tuned to Channel 16, except when being used for messages.PowerTry 1 watt first if the station being called is within a few miles. If there is no answer,switch to 3 watts and call again. You have the ability to go up to 5 watts of outputpower to increase your calling distance. Remember, the lower wattage outputs willconserve your battery and minimize interference to other users.Calling Coast Stations Call a coast station on its assigned channel. You may use Channel 16 when you do not know the assigned channel.Calling Other Vessels Call other vessels on Channel 16 or on Channel 9. (Channel 9 is preferred for recreational vessel use.) You may also call on ship-to-ship channels when you know that the vessel is listening on a ship-to-ship channel.Initial Calling on Channel 16 or 9The use of Channel 16 is permitted for making initial contact (hailing) anothervessel. The limits on calling must be followed. Be reminded, Channel 16’s mostimportant function is for Emergency Messages. If for some reason, Channel 16 iscongested, Channel 9, especially in U.S. waters, may be used as the initial contact(hailing) channel for non-emergency communication.Limits on CallingYou must not call the same station for more than 30 seconds at a time. If you do not get a reply, wait at least two (2) minutes before calling again. After three (3) calling periods, wait at least 15 minutes before calling again.Change ChannelsAfter contacting another station on a calling channel, change immediately to a channel which is available for the type of message you want to send.Station IdentificationIdentify, in English, your station by your FCC call sign, vessel name and the stateregistration number, at both the beginning and at the end of the message.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:35 PM Page 8
9Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®VHF Marine RadioProceduresProhibited CommunicationsYou MUST NOT transmit: False distress or emergency messages. Messages containing obscene, indecent or profane language. General calls, signals or messages (messages not addressed to a particularstation) on Channel 16, except in an emergency or if you are testing your radio. When you are on land.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 9
10 EnglishVHF Marine Voice CallingVHF Marine Voice Calling •You are required to listen to Channel 16 while standing by. Channel 16 is thedistress and safety channel used for establishing initial contact with another stationand for emergency communication. The Coast Guard also monitors Channel 16 forsafety purposes for everyone on the water.NOTEChannel 9 may be used by recreational vessels for general-purpose calling. Thisfrequency should be used whenever possible to help relieve congestion onChannel 16. The Coast Guard generally does not make urgent marineinformation broadcasts or weather warnings on Channel 9. Boaters are stillasked to “keep watch” on Channel 16 whenever the radio is turned on and notin use with another station.To call another vessel or shore installation (e.g., lock or bridge tender): Make sure your radio is On. You are in standby listening mode on Channel 16. Make sure Channel 16 is notbeing used.  When the channel is open (quiet), press the Talk button and call the vessel youwish to speak to. Hold the radio or microphone 2 in. (5 cm) from your face andspeak clearly and distinctly in a normal voice tone. Say “name or station beingcalled,” “THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign].” Once contact is made, you must leave Channel 16 and go to another workingchannel. See channel listing on pages 18-19.The vessel Corsair is calling the vessel Vagabond:Corsair: “Vagabond, this is Corsair. Over.”Vagabond: “Please switch and answer on Channel 68 (or any proper workingchannel). Over.”Corsair: “Switching to Channel 68. Over.”VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsFor ExampleMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 10
Introduction11Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®VHF Marine Voice CallingVHF Marine Radio Protocols If the other does not respond, wait two (2) minutes and repeat. You are permittedto attempt contact three (3) times, two (2) minutes apart. If you still have notmade contact, wait 15 minutes before trying again. After communications are completed, each vessel must sign off with its call signor vessel name and the word “out” and return to Channel 16.NOTEFor best sound quality at the station you are calling, hold the microphone onthe front of the radio at least 2 in. (5 cm) from your mouth and slightly off toone (1) side. Speak in a normal tone of voice.NOTE“Over and Out”The most commonly misused procedure words are “over and out” within thesame transmission. “Over” means you expect a reply. “Out” means you arefinished and do not expect a reply.MRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 11
12 EnglishIntroductionVHF Marine Radiotelephone CallsVHF Marine Radiotelephone Calls •Boaters may make and receive radiotelephone calls to and from any number on thetelephone network by using the services of public coast stations. Calls can be made —for a fee — between your radio and telephones on land, sea and in the air. See pages18 through 27 for the public correspondence (marine operator) channels.If you plan to use these services, consider registering with the operator of the public coast station that you plan to work through. Those services can provide you with detailed information and procedures to follow.NOTICEYou may disclose privileged information during a radiotelephone call. Keep in mind that your transmission is NOT private, as it is on a regular telephone. Both sides of the conversation are being broadcast and can be heard by anyone who has a radio and tunes to the channel you are using.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 12
Introduction13Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®VHF Marine Emergency Messagesand Distress ProcedureVHF Marine Emergency Messages and Distress Procedure •The ability to summon assistance in an emergency is the primary reason to have a VHF marine radio. The marine environment can be unforgiving, and what may initially be a minor problem can rapidly develop into a situation beyond your control.The Coast Guard monitors Channel 16, responds to all distress calls, and coordinates all search and rescue efforts. Depending on the availability of other capable vessels or commercial assistance operators in your vicinity, Coast Guard or Coast Guard Auxiliary craft may be dispatched.In any event, communicate with the Coast Guard as soon as you experiencedifficulties and before your situation becomes an emergency. Use the emergencymessage procedures only after your situation has become grave or you are facedwith a sudden danger threatening life or property and requiring immediate help. UseChannel 16 to communicate your emergency message. Make sure you transmit onhigh power. If you are merely out of gas, do not send an emergency message. Dropyour anchor and call a friend or marina to bring the fuel you need or to give you atow.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 13
14 EnglishIntroductionVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsMarine Emergency SignalsThe three (3) spoken international emergency signals are:The distress signal MAYDAY is used to indicate that a station is threatened by grave and imminent danger and requests immediate assistance.The urgency signal PAN is used when the safety of the vessel or personis in jeopardy. (This signal is properly pronounced pahn.)The safety signal SECURITE is used for messages about the safety of navigation orimportant weather warnings. (This signal is properly pronounced see-cure-ee-tay.)When using an international emergency signal, the appropriate signal is to be spoken three (3) times prior to the message.MAYDAYPAN SECURITEVHF Marine Emergency Messagesand Distress ProcedureMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 14
Introduction15Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®If You Hear a Distress CallYou must give any message beginning with one (1) of these signals priority over any other messages. ALL stations MUST remain silent on Channel 16 for the duration of the emergency unless the message relates directly to the emergency.If you hear a distress message from a vessel, stand by your radio. If it is not answered, YOU should answer. If the distressed vessel is not nearby, wait a short time for others who may be closer to acknowledge.Even if you cannot render direct assistance, you may be in a position to relay the message.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsVHF Marine Emergency Messagesand Distress ProcedureMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 15
16 EnglishIntroductionMarine Distress ProcedureSpeak slowly — clearly — calmly.1. Make sure your radio is On.2. Select Channel 16.3. Press Talk button and say: “MAYDAY — MAYDAY — MAYDAY.” (Or “PAN — PAN — PAN,” or “SECURITE — SECURITE — SECURITE.”)4. Say: “THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign],” repeated three (3) times.5. Say: “MAYDAY (or “PAN” or “SECURITE”) [your vessel name or call sign].6. Tell where you are: (what navigational aids or landmarks are nearby).7. State the nature of your distress.8. State the kind of assistance needed.9. Give number of persons aboard and conditions of any injured.10. Estimate present seaworthiness of your vessel.11. Briefly describe your vessel (length, type, color, hull).12. Say: “I WILL BE LISTENING ON CHANNEL 16.”13. End message by saying: “THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign]. OVER.”14. Release Talk button and listen. Someone should answer. If not, repeat the call, beginning at step 3 above.Keep the radio nearby. Even after your message has been received, the Coast Guardcan find you more quickly if you can transmit a signal for a rescue boat to hone in on.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsVHF Marine Emergency Messagesand Distress ProcedureMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 16
For ExampleIntroduction17Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®“Mayday — Mayday — Mayday”“This is Corsair — Corsair — Corsair” [or “IL 1234 AB” three (3) times]“Mayday Corsair (or IL 1234 AB)”“Navy Pier bears 220 degrees magnetic — distance 5 miles”“Struck submerged object and flooding — need pump and tow”“Four (4) adults, three (3) children aboard — no one injured”“Estimate we will remain afloat one-half hour”“Corsair (or IL 1234 AB) is 26 ft sloop with blue hull and tan deck house”“I will be listening on Channel 16”“This is Corsair (or IL 1234 AB)”“Over”It is a good idea to write out a script of the message form and post it where you and others on your vessel can see it when an emergency message needs to be sent.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsVHF Marine Emergency Messagesand Distress ProcedureMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 17
18 EnglishVHF MarineChannel AssignmentsVHF Marine Channel Assignments •Three (3) sets of VHF channels have been established for marine use in the U.S.A.,Canada, and the rest of the world (International). Most of the channels are the samefor all three (3) maps, but there are definite differences (see table on the followingpages). Your radio has all three (3) maps built into it and will operate correctly inwhichever area you choose. The following is a brief outline of the channel assignments in the U.S.A. Channel Map.Distress, Safety, and CallingChannel 16Getting the attention of another station (calling) or in emergencies (distress and safety).Calling Channel 9General-purpose (non-emergency) calling by non-commercial vessels. Recreational boaters are urged to use this channel to reduce congestion on Channel 16.Intership SafetyChannel 6Ship-to-ship safety messages and for search and rescue messages to Coast Guard ships and aircraft.Coast Guard LiaisonChannel 22ATo talk to the Coast Guard or Canadian Coast Guard (non-emergency) after makingcontact on Channel 16.Non-CommercialChannels 68*, 69, 71, 72, 78A, 79A*, 80A*Working channels for small vessels. Messages must be about needs of the vessel, such as fishing reports, berthing and rendezvous. Use Channel 72 only for ship-to-ship messages.CommercialChannels 1A, 7A, 8, 9, 10, 11, 18A, 19A, 63A, 67, 72, 79A, 80A, 88A*Working channels for working ships only. Messages must be about business orneeds of the ship. Use Channels 8, 67, 72 and 88A only for ship-to-ship messages.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 18
19Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®VHF MarineChannel AssignmentsPublic Correspondence (Marine Operator)Channels 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 60, 61, 84, 84A, 85, 85A, 86, 86A, 87, 87A, 88*For calls to marine operators at public coast stations. You can make and receivetelephone calls through these stations.Port OperationsChannels 1A*, 5A*, 12*, 14*, 18, 19, 20A, 21, 22, 63A*, 65A, 66A, 73, 74, 75, 76,77*, 79, 80, 81, 82Used for directing the movement of ships in or near ports, locks or waterways.Messages must be about operational handling, movement and safety of ships. NavigationalChannels 13, 67Channels are available to all vessels. Messages must be about navigation, includingpassing or meeting other vessels. These are also the main working channels formost locks and drawbridges. You must keep your messages short and power outputat no more than 1 watt.Maritime ControlChannel 17For talking to vessels and coast stations operated by state or local governments.Messages must be about regulation and control, boating activities or assistance.Digital Selective CallingChannel 70This channel is set aside for distress, safety and general calling using only digitalselective calling techniques. Voice communication is prohibited; your radio cannottransmit voice messages on this channel.WeatherChannels Wx 1 Thru 10Receive-only channels for NOAA and Canadian weather broadcasts. You cannottransmit on these channels.NOTE* These channels are restricted to the listed uses in certain parts of the country or for certain types of users only. Consult FCC rules or a knowledgeable radio operator before using them.VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 19
20 EnglishIntroductionVHF Marine Channel AssignmentsVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsChannel Channel Map Frequency PowerNumber USA Int’l Canada Transmit Receive Limits01 ••156.050 160.65001A •156.050 156.05002 ••156.100 160.70003 ••156.150 160.75003A •156.150 156.15004 •156.200 160.80004A •156.200 156.20005 •156.250 160.85005A ••156.250 156.25006 •••156.300 156.30007 •156.350 160.95007A ••156.350 156.35008 •••156.400 156.40009 •••156.450 156.45010 •••156.500 156.50011 •••156.550 156.55012 •••156.600 156.60013 •••156.650 156.650 1 watt USA and CAN14 •••156.700 156.70015 •Rx Only 156.75015 ••156.750 156.750 1 watt CAN and INT16 •••156.800 156.80017 •••156.850 156.850 1 watt USA and CANMRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 20
Introduction21Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®VHF Marine Channel AssignmentsVHF Marine Radio ProtocolsChannel Use01 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)01A Port Operations and Commercial, VTS in selected areas02 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)03 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)03A Government Only04 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement04A West Coast (Coast Guard Only); East Coast (Commercial Fishing) 05 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement05A Port Operations, VTS in selected areas06 Intership Safety07 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator), Port Operations, Ship Movement07A Commercial08 Commercial (Intership Only)09 Boater Calling Channel, Non-Commercial (Recreational)10 Commercial11 Commercial, VTS in selected areas12 Port Operations, VTS in selected areas13 Intership Navigation Safety (Bridge-to-Bridge). In U.S. waters, large vessels maintain a listening watch on this channel.14 Port Operations, VTS in selected areas15 Environmental (Receive Only). Used by class C EPIRB’s.15 Canada (EPIRB Buoys Only); International (On-Board Communication)16 International Distress, Safety and Calling 17 State Controlled (U.S.A. Only)MRHH425VP-Body-Eng.qxp:400_Body 10/26/06 1:36 PM Page 21

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