STANDARD HORIZON GX2000

STANDARD HORIZON GX2000 Fixed Mount VHF Radio Instruction Manual

Model: GX2000

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your STANDARD HORIZON GX2000 Fixed Mount VHF Radio. The GX2000 is a full-featured marine VHF radio designed for reliable communication, featuring a 25/1 Watt power output, Class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC), an AIS display, and a loudhailer function. It is built to be submersible, meeting JIS-7 / IPX7 standards, ensuring durability in marine environments.

STANDARD HORIZON GX2000 Fixed Mount VHF Radio

Image: Front view of the STANDARD HORIZON GX2000 Fixed Mount VHF Radio, showing the display, rotary channel knob, and control buttons.

2. Setup

2.1. Installation

The GX2000 is designed for fixed-mount installation. Ensure the mounting location is secure and provides adequate ventilation. The radio's dimensions are approximately 9 x 3.5 x 9 inches and it weighs 2.2 pounds. Due to its submersible JIS-7 / IPX7 rating, it can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, but proper sealing of connections is crucial.

  • Power Connection: Connect the radio to a 12V DC power source. Ensure proper polarity and fuse protection.
  • Antenna Connection: Connect a marine VHF antenna to the antenna connector.
  • GPS Input: For Latitude/Longitude display and full DSC functionality, connect a GPS receiver providing NMEA 0183 data to the radio's NMEA input ports.
  • Loudhailer Speaker: If using the loudhailer function, connect an external loudhailer speaker to the designated output.
  • Optional Remote Mic/Control: If using, connect the optional remote microphone or control unit as per its separate instructions.

2.2. Initial Power On

After all connections are made, press and hold the power button to turn on the unit. The display will illuminate, and the radio will perform a self-test. Follow any on-screen prompts for initial setup, such as setting the time offset or MMSI number for DSC.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1. Basic Operation

  • Power On/Off: Press and hold the POWER button.
  • Channel Selection: Rotate the CHANNEL knob to select desired channels. Use the 16/9 button for quick access to Channel 16 and Channel 9.
  • Volume Adjustment: Use the VOL knob to adjust the audio output level.
  • Squelch Adjustment: Use the SQL knob to eliminate background noise when no signal is being received.
  • Transmit Power: Press the HI/LO button to toggle between 25 Watts (High) and 1 Watt (Low) transmit power.

3.2. Digital Selective Calling (DSC)

The GX2000 features Class D DSC, allowing for digital distress calls and other safety-related communications. An MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) number must be programmed into the radio for DSC functionality. Ensure your GPS is connected for position reporting.

  • Distress Call: Lift the red DISTRESS cover and press the button for 3 seconds to initiate a distress call.
  • Individual Call: Use the menu to initiate calls to specific MMSI numbers.
  • Position Request: The radio supports DSC Position Request and NMEA Output, allowing you to request and share position information with other DSC-equipped vessels.

3.3. AIS Display

The GX2000 can display AIS (Automatic Identification System) data from an external AIS receiver. This feature allows you to view information about nearby AIS-equipped vessels on the radio's screen, enhancing situational awareness. Note: The GX2000 itself is not an AIS receiver; it requires an external AIS receiver to provide data for display.

3.4. Loudhailer and Fog Signaling

When connected to an external loudhailer speaker, the GX2000 functions as a 30W PA (Public Address) system. It also includes various fog signaling patterns for navigation in restricted visibility.

3.5. Scan and Dual Watch

  • Scan: The radio can scan programmed channels for activity.
  • Dual Watch: Monitor Channel 16 and another selected channel simultaneously.

3.6. Channel Change Microphone

The included microphone features buttons for convenient channel changing directly from the mic.

4. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your GX2000 radio.

  • Cleaning: Wipe the radio's exterior with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents. Ensure all connectors are clean and free of corrosion.
  • Water Exposure: Although submersible, rinse the unit with fresh water after exposure to saltwater to prevent salt buildup.
  • Connection Checks: Periodically inspect all cable connections (power, antenna, GPS, speaker) for secure fit and signs of wear or corrosion.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your GX2000, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

  • No Power: Check power cable connections, battery voltage, and the inline fuse.
  • No Audio/Poor Audio: Adjust volume and squelch controls. Check speaker connections. Ensure the antenna is properly connected.
  • Cannot Transmit/Receive: Verify antenna connection. Check transmit power setting (HI/LO). Ensure you are on an active channel.
  • No GPS Data/L/L Display: Confirm the external GPS receiver is powered on and correctly connected to the radio's NMEA input. Check NMEA settings on both the GPS and the radio.
  • AIS Display Not Working: Ensure the external AIS receiver is powered on and correctly connected to the radio's NMEA input. Verify AIS data output settings on the AIS receiver.

If problems persist after attempting these steps, contact STANDARD HORIZON customer support.

6. Specifications

  • Model: GX2000
  • Brand: STANDARD HORIZON
  • Product Dimensions: 9 x 3.5 x 9 inches
  • Item Weight: 2.2 pounds
  • Transmit Power: 25 Watts (High) / 1 Watt (Low)
  • Number of Channels: 2000
  • DSC: Class D Digital Selective Calling
  • AIS Display: Yes (requires external AIS receiver)
  • Loudhailer: 30W PA and Fog Signaling (requires external speaker)
  • Water Protection: Submersible JIS-7 / IPX7 (1 meter for 30 minutes)
  • Special Features: Scan, Dual Watch, Channel Change Mic, NMEA Output

7. Warranty and Support

Warranty information for the STANDARD HORIZON GX2000 is typically provided with the product packaging or can be found on the manufacturer's official website. For technical support, service, or detailed warranty inquiries, please contact STANDARD HORIZON directly through their official channels.

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