Cobra 29 LX Professional CB Radio Owner's Manual

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Cobra 29 LX Professional CB Radio Transceiver. This product is designed to provide many years of reliable service.

The CB Story and Customer Assistance

The Citizens Band (CB) radio was invented by Al Gross in 1945, initially for military communication during World War II. After the war, it evolved into a personal communication tool, officially established by law in the U.S. in 1949. By the 1970s, CB radio became popular among drivers for reporting traffic conditions and speed traps.

The CB service operates on 40 channels, typically spaced 10 kHz apart, with a transmitter power limit of 4 watts in the US. Range varies with terrain and equipment quality. No license is required to operate a CB radio, provided FCC rules are followed.

In 2016, Cobra petitioned the FCC to allow FM modulation for CB radios, arguing for improved speech quality and reduced noise interference. This petition led to the official update of Part 95 rules in 2021, including FM as an option.

Customer Support

For any problems, questions about features, menu, or installation, please refer to this owner's manual. For further assistance, contact Cobra Customer Service at 800-543-1608 or visit www.cobra.com. For assistance outside the U.S.A., contact your local dealer.

Product Features and FCC Regulations

The Cobra 29 LX features a 4-Color LCD Display, Dual-Mode AM/FM operation, 4 Watts power output, and 40 Channels.

Front Panel Controls Overview:

• NB/ANL Button: Activates the Noise Blanker and Automatic Noise Limiter to reduce noise.
• S/RF/SWR/CAL Button: Selects modes for the S/RF meter (Signal/RF output) and SWR calibration.
• Signal Strength Meter: Indicates incoming signal strength.
• LCD Display: Shows channel, mode, and menu information.
• Scan/Memory Scan Button: Initiates scanning of CB channels or programmed memory channels.
• AM/FM/Channel 9/19 Button: Switches between AM and FM modes, and toggles between channels 9, 19, and the current channel.
• DIM/DAY or NIGHT Modes Button: Adjusts display brightness for different lighting conditions.
• 4-Pin Microphone Jack: Connects the microphone to the unit.
• Power On/Off/Volume/Squelch Control: Turns the unit on/off, adjusts volume, and controls squelch.
• Dynamike® Control: Adjusts microphone gain for optimal voice volume.
• Menu/Enter/Channel Selector: Navigates menu options and selects channels.
• RF Gain Control: Optimizes reception in strong or weak signal areas.
• Delta Tune Control: Fine-tunes the received frequency.
• TalkBack/SWR CAL Control: Monitors your own transmitted voice (TalkBack) or used for SWR calibration.
• PA Jack: Connects an external Public Address speaker.
• External Speaker Jack: Connects an external speaker, disabling the internal one.
• Antenna Connector: Connects the CB antenna (UHF SO-239 type).
• Power Jack: Connects the DC power source.

Microphone

The included microphone features a Push-To-Talk (PTT) button and a 4-pin connector.

FCC Compliance

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: it must not cause harmful interference, and it must accept any interference received. Modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Installation

Location

Plan the location for the CB transceiver and microphone bracket, ensuring convenience for operation without interfering with the driver or passenger. The transceiver is typically mounted to the underside of the dash with the microphone bracket nearby. The universal mounting bracket allows for angle adjustment via thumbscrews and includes self-tapping screws and star washers for secure mounting.

Mounting and Connection

1. Hold the radio with the mounting bracket in the desired location. If clear, use the bracket as a template to mark screw locations.
2. Drill holes and secure the bracket.
3. Connect the antenna cable plug to the "ANT" receptacle on the back of the unit.
4. Connect the red lead of the DC power cord to an accessory 12-volt fuse or directly to the battery. Ensure correct polarity.
5. Connect the black lead to the negative side of the vehicle's electrical system (chassis). Ensure good electrical contact.
6. Plug the power cable into the unit's "Power" jack, observing polarity markings.
7. Mount the microphone to the side of the CB or the dash using the supplied screws.
8. Attach the microphone to the front of the CB. Audio will not be heard if the microphone is not connected.

PA (Public Address)

Connect an external PA speaker to the PA jack on the rear panel. Press the CB/PA/WX button to change modes. The PA speaker should have 8-ohm impedance and handle at least 4.0 watts. Direct the speaker away from the microphone to prevent acoustic feedback.

CB Antenna

Antenna selection and proper matching are critical for transmission distance. Cobra recommends loaded-type antenna models. For optimal performance in cars, mount the antenna on the center of the roof, or secondarily on the center of the trunk. For trucks with fiberglass doors, use a ground strap for mirror-mounted antennas. Combination antennas for AM-FM & CB are available but may offer reduced range compared to single-band CB antennas. Visit www.cobra.com for antenna solutions.

Operation

Turning On Your CB

Ensure the power cord, antenna, and microphone are connected. Rotate the On/Off Volume knob clockwise to turn the unit on and adjust to a normal listening level. Press the CB/PA/WX button to change modes (CB, PA, WX).

Setting AM/FM and Channels 9/19

The 29 LX supports both AM and FM modes on channels 1-40. AM is the default. Briefly press the AM/FM button to switch modes; the selected mode will appear on the LCD. To toggle between channels 9, 19, and the current channel, press and hold the AM/FM button.

Setting Channel Selector

Rotate the channel selector knob clockwise or counter-clockwise to select any of the 40 channels. The selected channel number is displayed on the LCD.

Calibrate for SWR (Standing Wave Ratio)

SWR calibration adjusts antenna length and checks coaxial cable/RF connections for optimal performance.

1. Select Channel 20.
2. Press the SWR/CAL button to select CAL mode.
3. Push and hold the microphone button (PTT).
4. While holding the PTT, adjust the SWR CAL knob until the meter needle points to the CAL mark.
5. Release the PTT button. Press and release the S/RF-SWR CAL button to the SWR position. Press the PTT button again to read the SWR.
6. Repeat steps 2-5 for channels 1 and 40 to check SWR across all channels.

S/RF Meter

This meter indicates RF output (transmitting) or incoming signal strength (receiving). For transmitting, the S/RF-SWR-CAL button must be in the S/RF position.

To Receive

Rotate the On/Off Volume knob clockwise. The "RX" icon will be displayed.

Selecting a Channel

Ensure the unit is in CB mode. Rotate the channel selector knob to choose a channel. The selected channel is displayed on the LCD.

S-Meter

Indicates incoming signal strength. The S/RF-SWR-CAL switch must be in the S/RF setting to read the meter.

To Transmit

1. Select the desired channel.
2. Push and hold the microphone button (PTT). Speak clearly into the microphone, holding it about two inches from your mouth. Release the PTT to receive.

Note: Ensure the antenna is properly connected before transmitting. Transmitting without an antenna or with a poorly matched antenna can damage the transmitter.

Setting Dynamike®

Initially, set the Dynamike® control fully clockwise for maximum voice volume. Adjust as needed for specific conditions.

External Speaker

The external speaker jack allows for remote monitoring. Connect an 8-ohm speaker rated for at least 4.0 watts. Plugging in an external speaker automatically disconnects the internal speaker. Cobra external speakers are rated at 10 watts.

Front Panel Controls - Detailed

NB-ANL/OFF (Noise Blanker/Automatic Noise Limiter) Button

ANL: Activates the Automatic Noise Limiter to reduce vehicle electronics noise.

NB/ANL: Activates both the Noise Blanker and ANL for increased noise filtration, effective against repetitive noises like ignition interference.

OFF: Disables all noise filtration.

RF Gain Control

Used to optimize reception. Turn counterclockwise to reduce gain in strong signal areas and clockwise to increase gain in weak signal areas.

Program Memory Channels

1. Set the first channel. Press and hold the Scan/MemScan button until the Memory icon appears.
2. Select the second channel, press and hold Scan/MemScan again until the Memory icon appears. Repeat for up to 10 channels.

Note: The radio should be squelched before scan features are activated. Keying the microphone stops the scan.

Scan CB Channels

To scan all 40 CB channels, ensure the unit is squelched. Press and release the Scan/Mem Scan button once.

Scan Memory Channels

To scan programmed memory channels, press and release the Scan/Mem Scan button twice.

Dimmer Control

Press the Dim button to cycle through brightness settings for Day and Night modes. Press and hold Dim to toggle between Day and Night modes. Refer to page 17 for color and brightness settings.

Setting Squelch

Squelch acts as a gate for incoming signals.

1. Full clockwise rotation closes the gate, allowing only strong signals.
2. Full counterclockwise rotation opens the gate, allowing all signals.
3. Desired Squelch Setting (DSS): Turn the Squelch control counterclockwise until noise is heard, then turn it clockwise just until the noise stops.

Menu Mode

Used to program special features. The Menu/Enter knob navigates options and selects features. Rotate the knob clockwise to move between menu levels.

Menu Levels:

• Level 1: Set Clock, Alarm Clock, Set Count Down
• Level 2: Key Tones, WX Alert, WX Alert Scan
• Level 3: WX Auto Scan, Display Color, Brightness
• Level 4: Contrast, Radio Check, Utility
• Level 5: Exit

Note: To exit Menu Mode, select "Exit", wait for timeout, or press the PTT switch.

Setting the Clock

Access "Set Clock" via Menu Mode. The display will show 12:00 PM, with hours flashing. Rotate Menu/Enter knob to set the hour, then press to set. Minutes will flash; rotate knob to set minutes, then press. AM/PM will flash; rotate knob to select, then press to exit.

Note: Use the PTT switch to exit any menu level back to CB standby mode.

Setting the Alarm Clock

Access "Alarm Clock" via Menu Mode. Select "Set Alarm Time" and follow the clock setting instructions for time and AM/PM. The clock requires constant 12V power to run continuously.

Setting the Count Down Timer

Access "Set Count Down" via Menu Mode. Select "Count Down" and set it to ON. Then, set the desired hours and minutes. Push and release the Menu knob to save settings. The clock requires constant 12V power.

Key Tones Mode

Access "Key Tones" via Menu Mode. Press Menu/Enter to select On/Off to enable or disable key tones.

Weather Information

The Cobra 29 LX can monitor NOAA Weather Radio (NWR) frequencies. An alert tone will sound for threatening weather, even if the unit is off or in CB mode. Press the CB/WX/PA button to WX mode upon hearing the alert to listen to the broadcast. The unit has a special auto squelch for weather transmissions.

For NOAA transmitter locations, contact your nearest National Weather Service Office or write to: National Weather Service (Attn: W/OM11) NOAA, Silver Springs, MD 20910. For ideal reception, use a dual-band antenna.

Setting Weather Alert Mode

1. Access "Set WX Alert" via Menu Mode.
2. Select On/Off to enable or disable weather alerts. The WX Alert Icon will display if enabled.

Setting Weather Alert Scan

1. Access "WX Alert Scan" via Menu Mode.
2. Select On/Off to enable or disable scanning for weather alerts.

Note: When an alert is detected, the unit will activate WX mode on the alert channel.

Weather Auto Scan

Automatically searches for the strongest weather station and stays on it, providing instant weather information.

Setting Weather Auto Scan

1. Access "WX Auto Scan" via Menu Mode.
2. Select On/Off to enable or disable Weather Auto Scan.

Setting Display Color

1. Access "Display Color" via Menu Mode.
2. Select "Day" or "Night" mode by rotating the Menu/Enter knob.
3. Rotate the Menu/Enter knob clockwise to cycle through colors (green, blue, amber, red) and press Menu/Enter to select a color.
4. Select "Exit" to return to the main menu.

Setting Brightness

1. Access "Brightness" via Menu Mode.
2. Select "Day" or "Night" options.
3. Adjust the brightness level by rotating the Menu/Enter knob.
4. Select "Exit" or press PTT to return to CB Mode. Brightness levels can be switched using the DIM switch on the front panel.

Note: An error beep will sound if the highest or lowest brightness levels are exceeded.

Setting Contrast

1. Access "Set Contrast" via Menu Mode.
2. Rotate the Menu/Enter knob clockwise to increase contrast, counterclockwise to decrease it.
3. Press Menu/Enter to set the contrast level.

Note: An error beep will sound if the highest or lowest contrast levels are exceeded. Adjust contrast for each color for optimal viewing.

Radio Check Mode

Tests key radio functions:

• Test 1 - Battery Level: Confirms voltage is between 10.8V and 15.8V. Displays "PASS", "FAIL HIGH", or "FAIL LOW". Press Menu/Enter to advance.
• Test 2 - RF Power Output: Confirms 3.3 to 4 Watt output. Displays "PASS" or "FAIL" if outside limits. Press PTT within 10 seconds to proceed.
• Test 3 - Antenna Mismatch Warning: Press PTT to check antenna/radio matching. Displays "PASS" or "FAIL".

Note: Use PTT to return to CB standby mode. Pressing Enter or waiting 10 seconds advances tests.

Utility Mode (Software Version and Factory Reset)

Access "Utility" via Menu Mode to view software version or perform a factory reset.

• To Restore Default Settings: Navigate to "Settings" then "Go To Default". Press Menu/Enter to confirm the reset. Choose "NO" to keep current settings.
• Software Version: Navigate to "Settings" then "Software Version" to view the current version.

Note: Default display color is green.

Base Station Operation (From 120V AC House Current)

To operate from home, you need a 13.8V DC Power Pack rated at a minimum of 2 amps and a properly installed base station antenna. Connect the red (+) and black (-) leads of the transceiver to the power pack terminals, observing polarity. Plug the power cable into the unit's "Power" jack. Connect the antenna.

Warning: Do not connect directly to 120VAC.

Temporary Mobile Operation

For temporary mobile use, purchase an optional 12V power adapter and magnetic mount antenna. Visit www.cobra.com for accessories or call 800-543-1608.

How Your CB Can Serve You

Your CB radio can be used to:

• Warn of traffic problems
• Provide weather and road data
• Offer help in emergencies
• Provide direct contact with home or office
• Assist police by reporting erratic drivers
• Gather local information
• Communicate with family and friends
• Suggest dining and rest spots
• Keep you alert while traveling

A Few Rules You Should Know:

• Conversations are limited to 5 minutes per station, with a 1-minute break required.
• Amplified transmitters or high antennas are prohibited for blasting others off the air.
• CB use for illegal activities or profanity is not allowed.
• Transmitting music or selling merchandise/services is prohibited.

Set Channel 9 For Emergencies

Ensure the antenna is properly connected. When transmitting an emergency, request a "REACT BASE" and provide CLIP data: Call Sign, Location (be exact), Injuries (number, type, trapped?), and Problem (details and help needed). Transmit CLIP repeatedly. If no response on channel 9, try channels 19 or 14.

Channel 9 Permitted/Prohibited Messages

The FCC provides examples for channel 9 usage:

CB 10-Codes

Citizen Bands use "10-CODES" for quick communication, especially in noisy areas. Here are common codes:

Frequency Ranges

The Cobra 29 LX covers 40 CB channels and WX (Weather) channels using advanced Phase Lock Loop (PLL) circuitry.

Specifications

General:

• Channels: CB - 40 CH
• Frequency Range: CB - 26.965 to 27.405 MHz; WX - 162.400 to 162.775 MHz
• Frequency Tolerance: 0.005%
• Frequency Control: PLL (Phase Lock Loop) Synthesizer
• Operating Temperature Range: -30° C to +50° C
• Microphone: Plug-in dynamic
• Input Voltage: 13.2VDC nom. (positive or negative ground)
• Current Drain: Transmit (AM full mod.): 1.5A max.; Receive (Squelched): 0.3A; Receive (full audio): 1.2A nom.
• Size: 10.04" D x 7.28" W x 2.52" H
• Weight: 3.36 lbs.
• Antenna Connector: UHF SO-239 (Meter indicates relative power output, received signal strength, and VSWR)

Transmitter:

• Power Output: 4 watts
• Modulation: AM (Amplitude Modulation) and FM (Frequency Modulation)
• Frequency Response: 300 to 3000 Hz
• Output Impedance: 50 ohms, unbalanced

Receiver:

• Sensitivity: AM: Less than 1uV for 10 dB (S+N)/N; FM: -116 dBm @ 12 dB SINAD typical
• Selectivity: 6 dB @ 7 KHz, 60 dB @ 10KHz
• Image Rejection: 80 dB, typical
• Adjacent-Channel Rejection: 60 dB, typical
• IF Frequencies: Double Conversion: 1st: 10.695 MHz, 2nd: 455 KHz
• Automatic Gain Control (AGC): Less than 10 dB change in audio output for inputs from 10 to 50,000 microvolts
• RF Gain range: 40 db
• Noise Blanker: RF type
• Squelch: Adjustable; threshold less than 1μV
• Audio Output Power: 4 watts
• Frequency Response: 300 to 3000 Hz
• Distortion: Less than 7% @3 watts @ 1000 Hz
• Built-in Speaker: 8 ohms, 5w
• External Speaker: 8 ohms; disables internal speaker when connected

PA System:

• Power Output: 4 watts into external speaker
• External Speaker for PA (Not Supplied): 8 ohms, 4 Watts min. The PA speaker also monitors the receiver; separate jack provided.

(Specifications subject to change without notice)

Warranty Information

Cobra warrants products against defects in materials and workmanship for two (2) years from the date of original purchase. Cobra will repair or replace products at its discretion, free of charge. Shipping charges for returns are the customer's responsibility. COD packages will be refused.

Warranty Claims: Require proof of purchase (invoice or receipt). No proof needed for factory direct purchases.

Warranty Exclusions: Does not apply if the serial number is removed/modified, the product is misused, damaged (including water damage, physical abuse, improper installation), or modified. Warranty is void if purchased from unauthorized dealers or auction sites.

Limitation of Warranty: Products are acquired "AS IS" and "WHERE IS". Cobra disclaims all warranties, express or implied, including merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Cobra is not liable for consequential, special, or incidental damages arising from use, misuse, or mounting.

General Warranty Information: Most Cobra products come with a one to three (1-3) year warranty. Standard accessories and accessory items have a one-year factory warranty. Shipping to Cobra is not covered; return shipping within the US is included. This warranty is non-transferable.

FCC Statements

FCC Part 15.19 Warning Statement: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

FCC Part 15.21 Warning Statement: The grantee is not responsible for any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance. Such modifications could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

FCC Part 15.105(b) Warning Statement: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device. It generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy. If interference occurs, users are encouraged to correct it by reorienting/relocating the antenna, increasing separation, connecting to a different circuit, or consulting a dealer/technician.

IC RSS-GEN, Sec 8.4 Warning Statement (English & French): This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) the device may not cause interference, and (2) the device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

RF Exposure Statement (English & French): This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits for an uncontrolled environment. It should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 40cm between the radiator and your body.

Need Help?

For questions about operation or installation, please contact Cobra first. Do not return the product to the retail store. Contact information varies by country; visit www.cobra.com/support for the latest details.

For products purchased in the U.S.A., call 800-543-1608. For further information or support, visit www.cobra.com for FAQs, Declarations of Conformity, and manuals.

For products purchased outside the U.S.A. or Canada, contact your local dealer for service information.

Replacement Parts & Accessories

Replacement parts and accessories can be found at cobra.com. For questions, call Cobra Customer Care at 800-543-1608.