Cobra HH 38 WX ST Citizens Band 2-Way Handheld CB Radio

The CB Story

The Citizens Band (CB) radio service operates between the shortwave broadcast and 10-meter Amateur radio bands. It was established by law in 1949, with the Class D two-way communications service opening in 1959. The CB service also includes Class A for citizens bands and Class C for remote control frequencies.

FCC Regulations

FCC regulations permit only "transmissions" (communication between two parties) rather than "broadcasts" (communication to a wide audience). Consequently, advertising is not permitted on CB Channels as it is considered "broadcasting."

FCC Warnings

Any adjustments to the transmitter other than those provided as front panel operating controls by the manufacturer must be performed by, or under the supervision of, an individual holding an FCC-issued general Radio-Telephone Operator's License. Replacing or substituting transistors, regular diodes, or other unique parts with components not recommended by Cobra may violate technical regulations outlined in Part 95 of the FCC Rules or Type Acceptance requirements in Part 2 of the Rules. It is essential to read and understand Part 95 of the FCC Rules and Regulations before operating your Cobra radio, even though an operator's license is no longer required by the FCC.

What's Included with Your HH 38 WX ST

• 1. High Efficiency Antenna
• 2. Removable Belt Clip
• 3. Wrist Strap
• 4. 12 Volt Cigarette Lighter Plug
• 5. Operating Manual

Controls and Indicators

• 1. BNC Antenna Connector
• 2. Squelch Control
• 3. On/Off Volume Control
• 4. Removable Belt Clip
• 5. External Speaker Jack
• 6. External Microphone Jack
• 7. Charge LED
• 8. NiCD Battery Charge Jack
• 9. DC Power Jack
• 10. Light Key
• 11. Channel Up/Down Keys
• 12. PTT (Push To Talk) Key
• 13. Battery Chamber
• 14. LCD Display Panel
• 15. Lock Key
• 16. SoundTracker® Key
• 17. CB/WX Weather Key and HI/LO Power Key
• 18. Instant Channel 9 & 19 and Dual Watch Key
• 19. Function Key
• 20. Channel Scan
• 21. Microphone

The LCD Display Panel shows all necessary information, including:

• 2 Digit Channel Display
• Battery Capacity Level Indicator
• FUNC Function Key Indicator
• Lock Key indicator
• PWR SAVE Battery Save Indicator
• WX Weather Mode Indicator
• SCAN Scan Mode Indicator
• DW Dual Watch Indicator
• EMG Emergency Channel 9 indicator
• ST SoundTracker® System™ icon
• SIGNAL Meter (Incoming Strength of Signal)
• POWER Meter (Outgoing Transmission Power)

Our Thanks to You

Thank you for purchasing the Cobra HH 38 WX ST handheld CB. Properly used, this Cobra product will provide many years of reliable service.

SoundTracker®

"Cuts noise coming in...strengthens signals going out."

This patent-pending technology dramatically improves transmission and reception of CB signals. The revolutionary SoundTracker® System reconfigures the transmission signal for more efficient transfer through cluttered airwaves. Simultaneously, it significantly reduces static on incoming CB signals. The result is cleaner, clearer reception and more powerful transmission, enhancing CB communications.

Customer Support

For any product issues or feature inquiries, please refer to this owner's manual. For further assistance, contact Cobra Customer Service at 773.889.3087.

Cobra Customer Service

Live operators are available Monday-Friday, 8:00 am - 6:00 pm CST at 773.889.3087. Automated Technical Assistance is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Send email questions to: productinfo@cobra.com. Visit Cobra on the World Wide Web for Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) at www.cobra.com.

Operating Your HH 38 WX ST

Features of This Product

• 40 CB Channels
• 10 Weather Channels
• Full Feature LCD Display
• Dual Channel Watch
• Full Channel Scan
• Battery Level Meter
• External Speaker/Microphone Jack
• Instant Channel 9 & 19
• High/Low Power Saver Switch
• BNC Antenna Connector
• Lock Key

Attach Antenna

To increase range as a portable unit, use the CA41 telescopic loaded long range antenna (See Accessory Page 35).

1. Insert the antenna into the connector.
2. Turn clockwise a 1/4 turn to secure.

Install Batteries

Note: Ignoring polarity markings (+/-) can damage the unit and batteries.

The HH 38 WX ST requires 9 "AA" alkaline or NiCD batteries (not included).

1. Remove the battery chamber cover by pressing down on the arrow and sliding it off.
2. Install batteries, observing polarity markings.
3. Replace the cover.

Note: When batteries are low or need charging, the BATTERY icon will flash on the LCD display. Replace alkaline batteries or recharge NiCD batteries. NiCD rechargeable batteries should be charged for a minimum of 12 hours with a CA-45C charger. NiCD rechargeables should have a rating of 1.2 vdc, 750 Mah.

Attach Belt Clip

Note: The clip slides up to attach and slides down to remove.

1. Slide the belt clip up on the rails of the base until the tab locks into place.
2. To remove the belt clip, lift the tab and slide the belt clip down.

Operation

Turning On

Rotate the ON-OFF Volume Control clockwise. A series of tones will be heard, and icons will briefly appear on the LCD display. The LCD lights will remain on for 5 seconds.

Setting Squelch

Squelch acts as a "control gate" for incoming signals. It determines the minimum signal strength required to open the gate and allow audio to pass.

• Gate Closed: Turn the Squelch control fully clockwise to close the gate, blocking all incoming signals, including noise.
• Gate Open: Turn the Squelch control fully counterclockwise to open the gate, allowing all signals, including noise, to enter.
• Setting Desired Squelch (DSS): To achieve the Desired Squelch Setting (DSS), turn the Squelch control counterclockwise until you hear noise. Then, turn the control clockwise just until the noise stops. This is the DSS setting.

Operation

Select Channel

After turning the power ON:

• For higher channels, push the UP arrow key.
• For lower channels, push the DOWN arrow key.

Note: For quick channel advancement, push and hold the arrow key(s). When switching channels, you may need to reset the squelch. Refer to "Setting Squelch" on pages 4 and 5.

LCD Display

The LCD display panel provides comprehensive information:

• 2 Digit Channel Display: Shows the current CB or Weather channel.
• Battery Capacity Level Indicator: Displays the remaining battery power.
• FUNC Function Key Indicator: Shows when the Function key is active.
• Lock Key: Indicates when the function lock is engaged.
• PWR SAVE: Battery Save Indicator.
• WX: Weather Mode Indicator.
• SCAN: Scan Mode Indicator.
• DW: Dual Watch Indicator.
• EMG: Emergency Channel 9 indicator.
• ST: SoundTracker® System™ icon.
• SIGNAL: Incoming Strength of Signal Meter.
• POWER: Outgoing Transmission Power Meter.

Operation

Transmit/Receive

Note: The antenna must be installed before transmitting (TX).

• To Transmit: Push and hold the PTT (Push To Talk) button. While the PTT button is depressed, you cannot receive transmissions.
• Hold the microphone approximately 2 inches from your mouth and speak in a normal voice.
• During transmission, the outgoing transmission power is measured in watts and displayed on the bar graph.
• To Receive: Release the PTT button. Your HH 38 WX ST is always ready to receive incoming signals when the PTT button is released.
• When receiving an incoming signal, its strength will be displayed on the bar graph.

Operation

One Touch Channel 9 & 19

Gain instant access to Channels 9 (emergency) and 19 (information) from other channels:

• Push the CH 9/19 button once for Channel 9.
• Push the CH 9/19 button twice for Channel 19.
• To return to the original channel, push the CH 9/19 button a third time.

Note: Pressing the CHANNEL UP/DOWN keys will exit this mode.

All Channel Scan

To scan all 40 channels:

1. Set Desired Squelch Setting (DSS).
2. Push the SCAN key. The channels will index.
3. To stop scanning, push the SCAN key again.

Notes:

• When an incoming transmission is received, the HH 38 WX ST will stop scanning. Scanning will resume 10 seconds after the scan stops.
• To set Desired Squelch Setting (DSS), see "Setting Squelch" on pages 4 and 5.
• Pressing the PTT key or the SCAN key will terminate scan mode.

Operation

Dual Watch

Dual Watch allows simultaneous monitoring of two preselected channels. To monitor Channel 11 and 17 for incoming transmissions:

1. Set Desired Squelch Setting (DSS).
2. Select Channel 11 using the CHANNEL UP/DOWN keys.
3. Push and release the FUNCTION key. The FUNC FUNCTION icon will be displayed.
4. Push and hold the DW key until a "beep" is heard. The DW icon will flash, and the FUNC FUNCTION icon will disappear.
5. Select Channel 17 using the CHANNEL UP/DOWN keys.
6. Push and hold the DW key until a "beep" is heard. The DW icon will stay on.

The HH 38 WX ST display will switch between the selected channels. Note: When a transmission is received, the HH 38 WX ST will stop monitoring. After 10 seconds, monitoring will resume between the two channels.

Note: At a later time, you can recall your preset DW channels by pushing and releasing the FUNCTION key and then quickly pushing and releasing the DW key.

To stop Dual Watch, push the CHANNEL UP/DOWN key on the HH 38 WX ST.

Operation

Weather Channels

The 10 National Weather Channels provide weather transmission reception. These channels include 7 NOAA and 3 Canadian channels, offering full coverage for weather conditions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Note: The HH 38 WX ST has a special auto squelch circuit for weather transmission that disables the squelch control.

• Push and release the CB/WX key. The current weather channel will appear.
• To change weather channels, push the CHANNEL UP/DOWN arrow keys. Select the channel with the clearest audio quality.
• To return to normal CB operation, push and release the CB/WX key again. The WX icon will disappear.

Note: NOAA (National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration) operates 380 stations covering about 90% of the U.S. population. If you cannot receive a weather station, one may not be available in your area. For a list of NOAA Weather Radio Transmitter locations, contact your nearest National Weather Service Office or write to: National Weather Service (Attn: W/OM11), NOAA, Silver Spring, MD 20910. For weather frequencies, see the "Frequency Ranges" section on page 36.

Operation

Power Saver (HI/LOW)

This feature reduces transmit power output to 1 watt to extend battery life.

Note: The low power setting reduces the transmitting range by half, but the receiving range is unaffected. Battery life is increased by approximately 50% when Battery Power Save Mode is activated.

• To Activate: Push and release the FUNCTION key. The FUNC FUNCTION icon will be displayed. Then, push and release the CB/WX key. The PWR Save icon will appear, and the FUNC FUNCTION icon will disappear.
• To Exit: Push and release the FUNCTION key. The FUNC FUNCTION icon will be displayed. Then, push and release the CB/WX key. The FUNCTION and PWR Save icons will disappear.

Operation

Battery Capacity Level

To monitor the remaining battery power of the HH 38 WX ST, check the battery icon bands on the display. Battery life is approximately 20 hours under normal use conditions.

Note: The BATTERY icon will flash if batteries are low. Replace batteries as soon as possible.

The SoundTracker® System

Unlike previous systems that only "blanket out" or limit noise in higher sound frequencies, the SoundTracker® System actively reduces noise while preserving the signal in reception mode. In transmission mode, it strengthens the signal, providing a significant reduction in noise for both reception and transmission.

Sound clarity is measured by the signal-to-noise ratio; a higher ratio means better sound.

How SoundTracker® Works

• On Reception - "Cuts noise coming in": With a normal CB, distant signals may fall below the squelch level and be unintelligible. With a SoundTracker® CB, the noise level is reduced by up to 90%, increasing the signal-to-noise ratio and improving signal clarity. This also allows for a significantly reduced squelch level, expanding your listening range.
• On Transmission - "Strengthens signals going out": A SoundTracker® CB strengthens the transmit signal by more effectively utilizing the available RF power output. This results in improved transmission signal clarity and an expanded transmission range.

Note: SoundTracker® provides clearer, cleaner reception to enhance CB communications.

Operation

Activating SoundTracker®

Note: This engages the SoundTracker® system and reduces the noise level.

• Push and release the ST key. The ST SOUNDTRACKER icon will appear.

Testing SoundTracker®

1. Select any unused channel on your CB.
2. Turn the Squelch control fully counterclockwise to open the "gate" and allow all signals to enter. Turn the knob until it stops.
3. Turn the volume up louder than your normal listening level.
4. Push and release the ST key. The ST SOUNDTRACKER icon will appear. Notice the significant reduction in noise.
5. To disengage SoundTracker®, push and release the ST key again. The ST icon will disappear.

Lighted Display

• To illuminate the display, push and release the LIGHT key. The light will remain on for 10 seconds.

Operation

Lock Key

The Lock Key purpose is to lock most functions to avoid accidental actuation. The PTT, LIGHT, VOLUME, SQUELCH, and LOCK functions remain operational while the LOCK function is activated.

• To Lock: Push and hold the LOCK key for two seconds. The LOCK icon will appear.
• To Unlock: Push and hold the LOCK key for two seconds again.

In Vehicle Use

The HH 38 WX ST can be connected to your cigarette lighter using the provided adapter. This power connection does NOT charge the batteries.

Note: Due to CB transmission characteristics, an external car roof/truck magnet-mounted antenna (item # ATW-400) and a BNC adapter (item # CA-43) are recommended for optimal performance in a vehicle. See Accessories section on page 39.

Note: The DC/Power Cord is provided. To increase range as a portable, use the CA41 telescopic loaded long range antenna.

How Your CB Can Serve You

• Warn of traffic problems
• Provide weather and road data
• Provide help in event of an emergency
• Provide direct contact with home or office
• Assist police by reporting erratic drivers
• Get "local information" to find destination
• Communicate with family and friends
• Suggest spots to eat and sleep
• Keep you alert while traveling

A Few Rules You Should Know

• Conversations cannot last more than 5 minutes with another station. A one-minute break is required to allow others to use the channel.
• You cannot blast others off the air using illegally amplified transmitters or illegally high antennas.
• You cannot use CB to promote illegal activities.
• Profanity is not allowed.
• You may not transmit music with a CB.
• Selling of merchandise and/or services is prohibited.

Weather Channel Messages

Local weather reports are provided by NOAA (National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. NOAA operates 380 stations covering about 90% of the U.S. population. If you cannot receive a weather station, one may not be available in your area. A network of 15 stations broadcasts continuous weather information across much of southern Canada.

Note: For a list of NOAA Weather Radio Transmitter locations, contact your nearest National Weather Service Office or write to: National Weather Service (Attn: W/OM11), NOAA, Silver Spring, MD 20910. For weather frequencies, see the "Frequency Ranges" section on page 36.

Channel 9 Emergency Messages

Note: If no response on channel 9, try channels 19 or 14.

1. Set to channel 9 for emergencies: Ensure the antenna is properly connected.
2. CB Distress Data: When transmitting an emergency, request a "REACT BASE" and provide the CB distress data (CLIP):
   • Call Sign: Identify yourself.
   • Location: Be exact.
   • Injuries: Number, Type, Trapped?
   • Problem: Give details and help needed.
   Transmit CLIP repeatedly so any monitor can assist.

The FCC provides examples of permitted and prohibited messages for channel 9. These are guidelines only and not all-inclusive:

CB 10-Codes

Citizen Bands have adopted the "10-CODES" for standard questions and answers. These codes provide quick and easy communication, especially in noisy areas. Below are common codes and their meanings:

Frequency Ranges & HH 38 WX ST Specifications

The COBRA HH 38 WX ST transceiver is an advanced AM two-way radio for the Citizens Radio Service, featuring Phase Lock Loop (PLL) circuitry for complete coverage of all 40 CB channels and 10 weather channels.

Frequency Ranges

HH 38 WX ST Specifications

General

• Channels: CB - 40 CH, Weather - 10 CH
• Frequency Range: CB - 26.965 to 27.405 MHz, Weather - 161.650 to 163.275 MHz
• Frequency Tolerance: 0.005%
• Frequency Control: PLL (Phase Lock Loop) Synthesizer
• Operating Temperature Range: -30° C to +65° C
• Microphone: Electret, Push-to-Talk
• Input Voltage: 9V DC
• 12V DC, External: Yes
• Antenna Connector: Type BNC
• Meter: LCD Display, Icons
• Weight: 9 oz.

Transmitter

• Power Output: 4.0 W at 13.8 VDC (High), 1.0 W (Low)
• Modulation: AM
• Frequency Response: 300-3000 Hz at -6 dB
• Output Impedance: 50 Ohms, Unbalanced

Receiver

• CB Sensitivity: Less than 1 uV for 10 dB S/N
• IF Frequency: Dual Conversion (1st - 10.690 MHz, 2nd - 455 KHz)
• Audio Output: 500 mW Maximum at 10% Distortion
• Frequency Response: 300-3000 Hz at -6 dB
• 2nd IF Image Rejection: Greater than 60 dB
• Adjacent Ch. Rejection: 50 dB Min.
• Automatic Noise Limiter: Built-in
• Frequency Control: PLL (Phase Lock Loop)

Weather

• Sensitivity: Less than 1 uV for 12 dB SINAD
• IF Frequency: Dual Conversion (1st: -10.690 MHz, 2nd: -455 KHz)
• Audio Output: Maximum 500 mW at 10% Distortion
• Frequency Response: 300 - 3000 Hz at -6 dB

Limited Two Year Warranty

Cobra Electronics Corporation warrants its COBRA CB Radios and component parts to be free from defects in workmanship and materials for two (2) years from the date of first consumer purchase, provided the product is used within the U.S.A. Cobra will, at its option, repair or replace defective units or parts at no charge upon delivery to the Cobra factory Service Department, accompanied by proof of purchase (e.g., a duplicated sales receipt). The consumer is responsible for initial shipping charges for warranty service; return shipping charges will be covered by Cobra if the product is repaired or replaced under warranty.

Exclusions

This limited warranty does not cover products damaged by accident, misuse, abuse, unauthorized alterations or repairs, or if the serial number has been altered, defaced, or removed. It also does not apply if the owner resides outside the U.S.A.

All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to the duration of this warranty. Cobra shall not be liable for any incidental, consequential, or other damages, including those resulting from loss of use or installation costs.

Some states do not allow limitations on the duration of implied warranties or the exclusion/limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so these limitations may not apply to you.

Optional Accessories

You can find these fine accessories at your local Cobra CB dealer. You may also order directly from Cobra.

• Ear Bud Mic with PTT (MA-EBM): Integrated speaker/mic adapter that fits in your ear, includes shirt clip.
• 120 Volt A/C Wall Charger with Plug (CA-45C): Charges 9 Ni-CD battery cells in 24 hours in the unit.
• Magnetic Mount Weather Antenna (ATW-400): Allows greater transmission range while in a moving vehicle.
• Vox Mic (MA-VOX): VOX (Voice Operated Transmitter) adapter allows hands-free operation.
• Lapel Microphone (CA-40): Remote microphone/speaker connection.
• Long Range Antenna (CA-41): Doubles the range of your HH 38 WX ST.
• (1) High Performance Ni-CD Rechargeable Battery Cell (212-001-N-001)
• Replacement Belt Clip (HA-BC)
• Replacement DC Power Cord (420-017-N-001): For in-vehicle use.
• BNC/SO239 Antenna Adapter (CA-43): Allows connection of the HH 38 WX ST to standard antennas.

For pricing information, call 773.889.3087 or visit www.cobra.com. To order by phone, call 773.889.3087 (Press 1 from the main menu) 8 a.m.-6 p.m. M-F CST. To order by mail or fax, please fill out the order form on the next page and mail/fax directly to Cobra.

Accessory Order Form

Fill out the order form and fax to 773.622.2269 or call 773.889.3087 (Press 1 from the main menu) 8:00 am - 6:00 pm, M-F, CST. Make checks or money orders payable to: Cobra Accessories Dept., 6500 West Cortland St., Chicago, IL 60707.

Prices are subject to change without notice.

Shipping & Handling

For AK, HI and PR, add an additional $15.00 for UPS shipments.

Tax Table

• Illinois residents add 8.75%
• Indiana residents add 5%
• Michigan residents add 6%
• Ohio residents add 5%
• Wisconsin residents add 5%

Subtotal:

(Tax if applicable):

Shipping/handling:

Total:

To order online, please visit our website: www.cobra.com. Click "shop Cobra®".

Please print clearly:

Name:

Address (No P.O. Box):

City: State:

Zip:

Telephone ( ): Exp. Date:

Credit Card No.:

Customer Signature:

Circle One: Visa MasterCard Discover

Allow 2 to 3 weeks for delivery. Offer valid in Continental U.S. only.

If You Think You Need Service

For technical assistance, call the Automated Help Desk at (773) 889-3087, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A Consumer Service Representative is available at the same number from 8:00 am - 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday, CST. Technical assistance is also available online in the FAQ section at www.cobra.com or via email to productinfo@cobra.com.

If you need service, call 773.889.3087. Cobra requests that you call first before sending your unit in for factory service to ensure the fastest turn-around time.

You may be asked to send your unit to the Cobra factory. To facilitate service and return, please provide the following:

1. For Warranty Repair: Include proof-of-purchase (e.g., a mechanical reproduction, carbon copy, or sales receipt). Original receipts cannot be returned.
2. Send the entire product.
3. Description of Issue: Enclose a typed or clearly printed description of the problem, along with your name and return address.
4. Packing: Pack the unit securely to prevent transit damage. Use original packing material if possible.
5. Shipping: Ship prepaid and insured via a traceable carrier (e.g., UPS or First Class Mail) to: Cobra Factory Service, Cobra Electronics Corporation, 6500 W. Cortland St., Chicago, IL 60707.
6. Warranty Status: If the unit is under warranty, it will be repaired or exchanged. Allow approximately 3 to 4 weeks before contacting for status. If out of warranty, you will receive a letter detailing repair or replacement charges. For questions, call 773.889.3087.

© 2002 Cobra Electronics Corporation. Printed in Thailand. Part No. 480-271-P-001.