Navicom RT-550BT Marine Radio Owner's Manual

OPERATOR WARNING

Navicom requires the radio operator to meet the requirements for Radio Frequency Exposure. Unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment may void compliance with ETSI Rule. Any changes or modification must be approved in writing by Navicom.

This equipment has been tested and licensed to comply with the limits for Class D Digital Marine Devices. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment can generate or radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications and human body. Never transmit before you make sure the antenna is properly located.

This device is only an aid to navigation. Its performance can be affected by many factors including equipment failure or defects, environmental condition and improper handling or use. It is the user's responsibility to exercise common prudence and navigational judgement, and this device should not be relied upon as a substitute for such prudence and judgement. Your Navicom VHF radio generates and radiates radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic energy (EME). This equipment must be installed and operated in accordance with the instructions contained in this handbook. Failure to do so can result in personal injury and/or product malfunction.

1 EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on your purchase of Navicom marine band radio. RT-550BT is a VHF DSC Base Station Radio with output power of 25/1 watt. It should be powered by a 13.8VDC power supply.

The radio can support DSC (Digital Selective Calling) operation with specially designed DSC unit. When being connected with GPS, it will display the position (longitude and latitude) of the vessel. A compact fist microphone makes for convenient operation of the equipment.

Bluetooth wireless technology is a standard which has been developed for use in mobile phones and other devices. This radio can be wirelessly linked to your mobile phone if your mobile phone also has Bluetooth.

Other features of the radio include:

• Access to all available International channels (currently allocated).
• Allows memory of all channels for quick recall and memory scan.
• Provides as many as 20 user programmable names with MMSI, and 20 individual calls for DSC communications.
• Rotary volume control with power on/off, rotary channel selector and rotary squelch adjustable knob give you more convenient operation of the radio.
• Outstanding performance of waterproof complying with Japanese Industry Standard level 7.
• 25 watts high output power allows you to make contact with others in a long distance of marine communication; and 1 watt low power for short distance.
• Separate 16 button, for quick selection of the emergency call on CH16.
• Adjustable brightness of backlit for good visibility of the large LCD in various circumstances.
• External interface easy to connect to GPS and external speaker.
• Mounting gimbal for firm and reliable location of your base station in different conditions.

1.2 ETSI INFORMATION

ETSI (European Telecommunications Standard Institute) has stipulated the specific requirements (EN 301 025-1/2/3) on marine radio with class D DSC feature. For use on non-SOLAS vessels.

2 CONTROLS AND LCD DISPLAY

2.1 BASE STATION (PANEL)

2.2 BASE STATION (REAR)

1 Antenna Socket: Connect a suitable antenna to your marine VHF radio to get satisfying communication.

2 Power Source: Connect the radio to a 13.8 VDC power source.

3 External Speaker Jack: If needed, you can also use this cable to connect an external speaker.

4 GPS Connector: Connect the radio to a GPS receiver to acquire the position and time information of your vessel.

2.3 HANDSET

1 Channel Up/ Down: Press and release to change channel.

2 16: Press and release 16 key to select channel 16 first; Press 16 key to quit all other modes and to into the priority channel.

3 HI/LO/MEM: Press and release HI/LO button to toggle between 25 watt power output and 1 watt output. The " 10 " or " 16 " icon appears on LCD display to indicate the setting. Hold the key to select memory channels mode.

4 PTT: Push to enable VHF communication through the 25/1-Watt transmitter.

5 Microphone: Well receive your voice information and ensure a reliable communication.

3 INSTALLATION

3.1 SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES

Manufacturer supplies you the following accessories as soon as you purchase this RT-550BT marine radio:

• (1) Mounting Gimbal (1 pc)
• (2) Power Supply Cable and External Speaker Connection Cable (1 set)
• (3) Mounting Knob (2 pcs)
• (4) Wall Hanger (1 pc)
• (5) GPS Connection Cable (1 set)
• (6) Self-tapping Screw for Fixing Mounting Gimbal (4 pcs)
• (7) Flat Screw for Fixing Mounting Gimbal (4 pcs)
• (8) Plain Washer (4 pcs)
• (9) Spring Washer (4 pcs)
• (10) Nut (4 pcs)
• (11) Self-tapping Screw for Fixing Wall Hanger (2 pcs)
• (12) Flat Screw for Fixing Wall Hanger (2 pcs)
• (13) Plain Washer (2 pcs)
• (14) Spring Washer (2 pcs)
• (15) Nut (2 pcs)

3.2 LOCATION

To more conveniently and efficiently use your marine radio, find a mounting location that:

• Is far enough from any devices like devices to avoid any interference caused by the speaker magnet in your radio during their operation;
• Provides accessibility to the front panel controls;
• Allows connection to a power supply and an antenna;
• Has free space nearby for installation of a handset hanger;
• Where the antenna can be mounted at least 3 feet from radio.

3.3 CONNECTIONS

POWER SUPPLY: Your radio should be powered by a 13.8VDC power supply. Red cable is for positive pole and the thicker black one is for negative pole.

EXTERNAL SPEAKER: If needed, you can connect your radio to an external speaker with the supplied connection cable. White cable is for positive pole and the thinner black one is for negative pole.

GPS EQUIPMENT: When your marine radio RT-550BT is connected to a GPS equipment, it can obtain the information of both its current location (longitude and latitude) and the local GMT. ("+" yellow, "-" green)

GPS CABLE: NMEA IN (+) from GPS navigation receiver, pin5. Yellow. NMEA IN (-) from GPS navigation receiver, pin4. Green. NMEA OUT(+) ,Pin2. Orange. NMEA OUT(-) ,Pin6. Black. NEMA 0183 Version (1.5 to 3.0) input Sentences: The sentences GLL, GGA, RMC, GNS shall be recognized. Note: Never short wires. This may lead to malfunctions. Connecting round plug to radio and wires yellow and green to GPS navigation receiver.

3.4 MOUNTING THE RADIO

Mount the radio on your vessel:

1. Find an appropriate location defined in section 3.2;
2. Place the mounting bracket on the location surface, use a pencil to mark the location of four holes where the fixing screws are to go into;
3. Caution: Be careful not to drill through the mounting surface.
4. Remove the bracket, drill four holes smaller than the screw diameter, then re-place the mounting bracket on the surface aligning the drilled holes;
5. Insert the four fixing screws and secure the bracket to mounting surface using the supplied bolts, spring washers, plain washers and nuts;
6. Caution: if you cannot reach behind the mounting surface to attach the nut on the bolts, use the supplied self-tapping screws to fasten the bracket.
7. Insert the four fixing screws and fasten them with a Philip screw driver with attention not to screw too tightly;
8. Mount the base station onto the bracket with notice of the matching of the protuberances on the both inner side of the bracket and the pits on the two sides of the base station (the selectable pits on the sides of the radio allow you adjust the direction of the radio face to satisfy your easy-to-read-and-use, 15° for each rotation and totally 45° tolerance);
9. Attach the supplied mounting knobs from the two sides of the bracket to fixing the base station securely.
10. Caution: Keep the radio and handset at least 1 meter away from any magnetic devices such as compass on your vessel.

The supplied universal mounting bracket allows you to mount your base station from overhead or on dashboard with a big scope of angle as many as 45°.

Change the angle after installation:

1. Loosen the mounting knob at the sides of gimbal first.
2. Then adjust the base station to an appropriate direction with matching of the protuberances on the inner sides of gimbal and pits on the outer sides of base station.
3. Tighten the knob to secure.

3.5 ANTENNA MOUNTING/THE EME EXPOSURE

For optimal radio performance and minimal human exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic energy, make sure the antenna is:

• Connected to the radio before transmitting;
• Properly mounted;
• Located where it will be away from people;
• Located at least three feet (91 cm) from the Base Station transceiver and Handsets;
• Use standard type of PL259 connector.

3.6 MOUNTING THE HANDSET

Find a mounting location near the base station to mount the wall hanger for handset. The distance between the base station and the wall hanger should be less than the length of the handset cable.

4 BASIC OPERATION

4.1 TRANSMISSION AND RECEPTION

1. CAUTION: Transmitting without an antenna may damage the radio.
2. After the radio has been installed, make sure of the power supply and antenna being properly connected.
3. To rotate the VOLUME/POWER knob clockwise turn on the radio and select a comfortable volume level.
4. To turn the SQUELCH knob clockwise until the background noise disappears.
5. Rotate CH knob to select channel.
6. Press Hi/Lo key to select high power or lower power.
7. Press the PTT (Push-To-Talk) button on the handset to make the radio into transmission mode. The P indicator on LCD is displayed.
8. Speak clearly in a normal voice into the microphone.
9. Once the transmission is finished, release the PTT button. The radio is at receive mode, icon B appears on screen.

4.2 BAND SWITCH

4.2.1 USA AND INT MODE

1. Press the BAND/SAVE button, to switch the operational channel band (USA & INT).
2. The icon CBA will be displayed on the LCD for USA mode. The icon CBA will be displayed on the LCD for INTL mode. Successive press and release toggles between USA and INT band.

4.2.2 MEMO (FAV) MODE

Press and hold the HI/LO/MEMO button while in normal operation mode to enter Mem mode, icon Q indicators appear on LCD. On the Mem Mode rotate the CH knob displays only the channels that you have saved to memory, which enables you to easily use your favorite channels while bypassing unwanted or seldom-used channels during a scan.

While in Mem Mode:

Press and release the SCAN key to start Memory scan mode. Press and release the SCAN key to stop Memory scan mode.

4.3 SAVE MEMORY (FAV) CHANNELS

You can store all band of voice channels.

Program the FAV channel and store Process as follow:

1. At normal mode, tune to the desired channel and then press and hold the BAND/SAVE key to save it as Favorite channel. The icon M will be turned on for indication that channel be saved in FAV list.
2. Then tune to next desired channel and repeat the keystroke sequences till all desired channels be programmed / saved.
3. Delete the channel from the FAV list at Normal mode. Select the target channel with icon M ON. Press and hold the BAND/SAVE key till the icon M turn OFF. The target channel will then be deleted out from the FAV list. Repeat the keystroke operation for those unwanted channels.
4. If no channel has been programmed, an error beep occurs with indicate error message.

4.4 TRANSMIT TIME-OUT TIMER (TOT)

When the PTT button on the microphone is held down, transmit time is limited to 5 minutes. This will avoid unintentional transmissions. About 10 seconds before automatic transmitter shutdown, a warning beep will be heard from the speaker(s). The transceiver will automatically go to receive mode. Before transmitting again, the PTT button must be released and then pressed again.

4.5 SCAN

Scanning is an efficient way to locate signals quickly over a wide frequency range.

The transceiver has 4 Scan modes available: All scan, FAV CH scan, Priority scan, Priority FAV CH scan. Default is normal all scan(1.2.3.4......)

1. Press and hold SCAN Key over 3sec, the Priority scan icon(1,16,2,16,3,16......) will be selected. Pscan mode will be appear on LCD. Press and hold SCAN key over 3sec to turn it back to normal scan, the scan mode icon will be display.
2. During the SCAN modes:
3. Press SCAN key again will terminate the scan operation and stop at the current channel.
4. Press CANCEL key will also terminate the scan function and state at the current channel.
5. It also can be cancelled by 16 or PTT.

4.6 WATCH

4.6.1 DUAL WATCH

Press Watch key to activate the DUAL WATCH mode. Monitor the current channel and Ch 16 in cycle. icon B D will appear on the LCD.

4.6.2 TRI-WATCH

Press and hold Watch key to activate the TRI WATCH mode. Monitor the current channel, CH 16 and CH 9 in cycle. icon T B will be turned ON.

To quit the mode, press WATCH, 16, CANCEL key.

Press PTT key to TX mode of current channel.

4.6 POSITION INDICATION

Your transceiver can display the position of the vessel's (longitude and latitude) as well as time and date information, if connected to a GPS receiver; if no GPS equipment to be connected, an alert tone of 10 sec duration which can be cancelled by any button is sounded at 4-hour intervals to encourage manual input of positional data. Once no manual input is made for 23.5 hours, GPS disappears from the screen, the position data transmitted goes to 9's and all the time data goes to 8's.

DISTRESS
23°20.1234 N
100°15.1002 E
08:10PM LOC

5 DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING

5.1 GENERAL

DSC (Digital Selective Calling) is a semi-automated method of establishing a radio call. It has been designated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as an international standard for establishing VHF, MF and HF radio calls. It had also been designated part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). It is planned that DSC will eventually replace aural watches on distress frequencies and will be used to announce routine and urgent maritime safety information broadcasts. This new service will also allow mariners to initiate or receive distress, urgency, safety and routine calls to or from another vessel equipped with a DSC transceiver.

5.1.1 MARITIME MOBILE SERVICE IDENTITY

An MMSI is a nine-digit number used on Marine Transceivers capable of using Digital Selective Calling (DSC). This number is used like a telephone number to selectively call other vessels. Refer to section 6.12 (USER MMSI ENTRY).

5.1.2 HOW CAN I OBTAIN A MMSI ASSIGNMENT?

Contact your dealer or NAVICOM.

WARNING

This radio is designed to generate a digital maritime distress and safety call to facilitate search and rescue. To be effective as a safety device, this equipment must be used only within communication range of a shore-based VHF marine channel 70 distress and safety watch system. The range of signal may vary but under normal conditions should be approximately 20 nautical miles.

5.2 DSC CALL TYPES

Press the DSC/MENU key to pop up the menu for the user to select the DSC call type to send. Note that only three calls can be shown at any one time on the screen.

Press +/- or rotate the CH knob to scroll up and down the call types until the cursor is positioned at the desired option.

Press the CH key. The call types are:

5.2.1 SENDING A DISTRESS CALL

Note: Only having a MMSI code of your radio and DSC enabled, can you initiate a DSC transmission? To enter the MMSI code see 6.9.1.

Open the red cover labeled DISTRESS.

Press the DISTRESS key momentarily.

The Text area of the display reconfigures to show the Nature of Distress menu.

If time is available, rotate the CH knob to select the Nature of Distress, the default is "UNDEFINED".

Hold down the DISTRESS key for more than 3 seconds until you see the distress call sent message on the screen. The whole display screen will flash and beep loudly.

If DISTRESS key is released before 3 seconds, the initiation of distress call is not taken into effect. If the button is pressed for more than 3 seconds, Distress call is sent whether channel 70 is busy or not. When Distress is sent, the acoustic alarm goes to a continuous tone until acknowledgement received or the Distress call is cancelled.

During the distress call sequence, the radio simultaneously watches Channel 70 for a DSC acknowledgement and Channel 16. When the distress call is acknowledged, the acoustic alarm stops and the radio returns to normal operation on channel 16, with high power relay to the connected station via the microphone.

If no acknowledgement is received, the unit retransmits the Distress call at random intervals of 3.5 to 4.5 minutes until a response is received or the call is manually cancelled, by pressing CANCEL key twice.

5.2.2 SEND AN ALL SHIPS CALL

1. Press DSC/MENU key. Rotate the CH knob to select "ALL SHIPS". Press the CH knob to enter ALL SHIPS. The All Ships menu displays LCD the categories from which you can select.
2. Caution: Keep the radio and handset at least 1 meter away from any magnetic device such as compass on your vessel.

ALL SHIPS >URGENCY SAFETY DISTRESS	ALL SHIPS SAFETY
ALL SHIPS SAFETY > SET CHANNEL

3. Rotate the CH knob to select: SAFETY, press the CH knob to enter All Ships Safety send.
4. Rotate the CH knob to select the working channel; or press 16 key to quit.
5. Press again and release the CH knob to advance the screen if sending the call.
6. Press again and release the CH knob to sending all ships safety call.
7. Once the call is sent, the text area of the display momentarily shows the Calling All Ships message. And then the radio returns to normal VHF operation on the designated channel. Press PTT to talk.

5.2.3 SEND A GROUP CALL

This feature allows the user to contact a group of specific vessels using DSC and to automatically switch to a desired channel. Before sending a GROUP call, you must set the GROUP MMSI.

1. From the DSC/MENU select the GROUP CALL item. Press the CH key, the screen displays the names of your groups.

GROUP > BBLIA CHAIRIST SEAWATCH

BBLIA 020070033 ROUTINE > SET CHANNEL

PILOTAGE 21°22.0012N 120°40.1001E 10:15 UTC

2. Select the group that you want to call. Then select the channel. Press the CH knob to send a group call. Once the call is sent, the Text area of the display momentarily shows the Calling group message.
3. After the GROUP CALL is transmitted, the radio will return to normal VHF with the designated channel.
4. Press the PTT to start talk.

5.2.4 MAKE A ROUTINE CALL (INDIVIDUAL)

You can make an individual call, either to a ship or to a coast station.

5.2.4.1 MANUALLY SENDING AN INDIVIDUAL CALL

1. Press DSC /MENU to DSC mode, then select "NEW CALL". Press the CH knob the arrow is pointing to <ROUTINE>.

DSC CALL >LAST CALL NEW CALL GROUP

NEW CALL ROUTINE > SAFETY URGENCY

INDIVIDUAL <MANUAL>

2. Rotate the CH knob to select: SAFETY, press the CH knob the arrow is pointing to <MANUAL>.
3. Press the CH knob again to access manual enter ID screen, enter the MMSI number using the CH knob. When MMSI entry is complete, press the CH knob to accept the selection.
4. Then rotate the CH knob to select the working channel and press the CH knob to accept selection. (Only in the case of a call to a ship, it is permitted to enter a talk channel; a call to a coast station, the coast station will specify the channel to talk on in its acknowledgement.)
5. The radio summarizes the call details and asks for confirmation to send the call (send?).
6. Press the CH knob again to send the call. The radio goes to CH 70 and the icon-T is displayed on the screen while the DSC call is being sent, then LCD displays awaiting acknowledgment.

MANUAL IND 0-------	450078964 INDIVIDUAL SAFETY > SET CHANNEL	450078964 INDIVIDUAL SAFETY > SEND?
450078964 INDIVIDUAL SAFETY WAITING ACK	450078964 SEND AGAIN >YES NO	PILOTAGE 21°22.0012N 120°40.1001E 10:15 UTC

7. If the call is acknowledged (ACK), press PTT to talk.
8. If the call does not get acknowledged within 30 seconds, the radio prompts you to resend the call.
9. If you do nothing for 5 minutes, the individual call is cancelled and the radio reverts to the original channel.

5.2.4.2 SENDING AN INDIVIDUAL CALL (MMSI STORED IN BUDDY LIST)

1. Press DSC /MENU to DSC mode, then select "NEW CALL". And next select one of categories from new call menu. Press the CH knob, the arrow is pointing to <MANUAL>.
2. Rotate the CH knob to select the person of the Buddy list that you want to call. The procedures are the same as manually sending an individual call.

5.2.4.3 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF AN INDIVIDUAL INCOMING CALL

The EUR requires the operator to manually send an acknowledgement to the requesting radio. Press CH knob to send an acknowledgement or CANCEL key to cancel.

5.2.5 LAST CALL (RECALL THE MOST RECENT INCOMING CALL)

This facility is also useful and is used frequently as a routing individual call.

1. Press the DSC/Menu key to enter the DSC mode. LAST CALL will be pointed. Press CH knob to display the detail information of the last call.
2. Select the working channel for individual call and press CH knob. The radio summarizes the call details and asks for confirmation to send the call (send?). Press CH knob to send the call. Other operations are the same as section 5.2.4.1.

5.2.6 SEND AN INDIVIDUAL CALL USING THE CALL LOG

The CALL LOG contains the contact details for the 20 most recent incoming calls, so you can call any of them again quickly.

1. Press the DSC/Menu key to enter the DSC mode, select CALL LOG, press up/down key to scroll for previous call.
2. Press the CH knob to confirm the choice then follow the ways to make the call in 5.2.4.1.

5.2.7 SEND AN INDIVIDUAL CALL USING THE DISTRESS LOG

Total max. 10 distress call data could be stored, the oldest one will be erased. The feature is similar to CALL LOG function, but select the caller from the Distress Log. So you can call any of them quickly, according to the normal individual call procedures to make the call. Reference 5.2.4.1.

5.2.8 POS REQUEST AND POS REPLY

5.2.8.1 POS REQUEST (REQUEST THE LL POSITION OF A BUDDY)

The option enables you to request GPS position information from any vessel for which an MMSI number is known.

1. Select the POS REQUEST on the DSC Menu, press the CH knob to enter the buddy list, select the one for position information.
2. The Call will be initiated and is the same as individual call procedures. See 5.2.4.1.

5.2.8.2 POS REPLY

The position reply can send your position to another radio with this feature. Your radio must have an operating GPS receiver connected to be used to send the position. POS reply can manually send your position or do it automatically depending on your setting.

On the manual reply, operation procedures as follow:

When you received POS request call, an alarm (pi-pi) sounds, LCD displays as follow:

Press the CH knob to transmit your own ship's position and time information.

Press CANCEL to record the received information, then the screen goes back to default.

5.3 RECEIVING A DSC CALL

When a DSC call is received, the radio automatically responds based on the type of call. The information displayed on the LCD varies depending upon the call type. See chart below.

5.3.1 RECEIVING DISTRESS CALL

When a distress call is received, the radio automatically tunes to channel 16, and the Distress Alarm Tone sounds. The call date is stored in the distress log. Pressing any key disables the alarm.

When position data is included within the signal, it is displayed in the Text Area of the LCD. When no position data is included within the signal, the message "99'99.999X 99'99.999 Y 88:88" is displayed in the Text Area of the LCD.

You must continue to monitor channel 16 as a coast station may require assistance in any rescue attempt.

5.3.2 RECEIVING A DISTRESS ACK SEND FROM A COAST STATION

When a Distress Relay Call is received, the Base Station automatically tunes to Channel 16, and the Distress Alarm Tone sounds. Pressing any key disables the alarm.

When position data is included within the signal, it is displayed in the Text Area of the LCD. The call date is stored in the distress log output to the NMEA port for external Chart-plotter.

You must continue to monitor channel 16 as a coast station may require assistance in any rescue attempt.

5.3.3 DISTRESS RELAY CALL

When a Distress Relay Call is received, the Base Station automatically tunes to Channel 16, and the Distress Alarm Tone sounds. Pressing any key disables the alarm. The call data is stored in the distress log.

When position data is included within the signal, it is displayed in the Text Area of the LCD.

You must continue to monitor channel 16 as a coast station may require assistance in any rescue attempt.

5.3.4 RECEIVING AN ALL SHIPS CALL

When an All Ships Call is received, the Alarm Tone Sounds, the radio tunes to the designated Channel by pressing ENT key or CANCEL key to normal mode with original Channel, and press any key to disable the alarm.

You must continue to monitor the channel so as to receive the voice communication.

The call data is stored in the call log.

5.3.5 RECEIVING AN GROUP CALL

1. When a group Call is received, the Alarm Tone Sounds, the radio automatically tunes to the designated Channel. Press any key to disable the alarm.
2. Monitor the traffic channel for an announcement from the calling ship.
3. The call data is stored in the CALL LOG.

RCV: GROUP <br> GP:012345678 <br> 987654321 <br> CANCEL->EXIT

5.3.6 RECEIVING AN INDIVIDUAL CALL

1. When an Individual call is received, the Alarm Tone Sounds. The radio tunes to the designated channel by pressing ENT key or CANCEL key to normal mode with original channel.
2. The MMSI contained within the signal is displayed on the Text Area of the display. If the MMSI correlates to an MMSI stored in the Buddy List, the corresponding name is displayed in place of the MMSI.
3. The DSC signal data is stored in the Call Log.

5.3.7 RECEIVING AN "POSITION REPLY" CALL

1. When "Position Reply" is received, the Alert tone sounds and the "POSITION ACK" message is displayed on the 1st line, showing the sender's GPS data.
2. The time & position could be stored and able to output to the NMEA port for external Chart-plotter.

5.3.8 RECEIVING A GEOGRAPHIC AREA CALL

A GEOGRAPHIC AREA CALL is received by vessels within a specific geographical boundary area.

1. When you receive notification of a geographical call, press any key to cancel the alert. The radio tunes to the designated channel by pressing ENT key or CANCEL key to normal mode with original channel. The time and the user MMSI are displayed on the screen and the call data is stored in the call log.
2. Monitor the working channel for an announcement from the calling vessel.

6 SETUP MENU

6.1 MENU FUNCTION DESCRIPTION

The radio's setup functions are accessed through the Menu mode. Menu mode selections are as follows.

6.2 SET-UP MENU NAVIGATION

To access the Menu Mode:

Press and hold MENU/DSC key, Text area displays the Set-Up Menu list. To exit the Menu mode or sub-mode:

Press the 16 or CANCEL key or else select the EXIT option from the menu.

Rotate the CH knob to select the Item within the Set-Up Menu list. To confirm a selected item for adjustment, push the CH knob. When the desired setting is done, press the CH knob to enter the setting, and move back to the Main Menu list.

Set Up operation is exited by turning the unit off. All changes are saved in EEPROM.

6.3 BUDDY LIST

The Buddy List can store up to 20 entries with Name and MMSI. User can add, edit or delete the record from the list under this submenu.

6.3.1 ADDING AN ENTRY

1. Select Buddy List and the cursor is at <NEW>. Press CH knob to enter the entry page which prompts up to allow entering Name and MMSI.
2. Rotate the CH knob to select the first desired character (A-Z, 1-9, Space and Back Arrow " <") for the name. When the desired character is shown, push the CH knob to enter. Select the next characters similarly. The characters can be up to 11. When the last digit is entered, the activation advances to the first MMSI digit.
3. Enter the MMSI associated with that buddy name (this must be numeric). Prefix 00 will treat as Coast. Once 9 digits are entered, a new page pops up to ask for confirmation to save.
4. Press the CH knob to save the new entry, which is displayed at the top of your BUDDY LIST.
5. Press CANCEL to terminate the process without saving and go back to Buddy list page.
6. When the buddy list is full, you can make a new entry and the buddy at the end of the list is automatically erased.

6.3.2 EDIT EXISTING ENTRY

1. Pick one from BUDDY list and edit. Press CH knob. A page pops up with items for you to edit or delete. Choose EDIT.
2. When you are finished editing, press CH knob. A new page prompts to ask for confirmation to save.
3. Press the CH knob to save the new edit. The BUDDY list is displayed again. If more changes are required, repeat steps from 1 to 3, otherwise, press cancel to exit.

6.3.3 DELETE AN ENTRY

1. Select the one which you want to delete from the list.
2. Rotate the CH knob to select the Delete option.
3. Press and hold the CH knob to confirm the delete action.
4. The selected record will be removed and you will go back to the BUDDY list page. You can repeat steps from 1 to 4 to delete more records, or press cancel to exit.

6.4 BACKLIGHT ADJUSTMENT

1. Select BACKLIGHT and press the CH knob. There are 8 levels of control for the BACKLIGHT.
2. Rotate the CH knob to adjust the setting. Press the CH knob to permanently enter the setting and return to the MENU LIST.

6.5 CONTRAST ADJUSTMENT

1. Select CONTRAST and press the CH knob. There are 8 levels of control for the contrast. The higher the numbers, the darker the LCD.
2. Rotate the CH knob to adjust the setting. Press the CH knob to permanently enter the setting and return to the MENU LIST.

6.6 LOCAL/ DISTANT

You can set the receiver to LOCAL to eliminate noise. Select the LOCAL/DIST from the MENU list for local and press the CH knob. The local state is stored when the screen is exited. The CH H icon turns ON in the LCD. Default is DISTANT.

6.7 GPS/TIME

The radio automatically detects NMEA strings and decodes appropriate latitude/longitude position and time. If the GPS navigation receiver is not connected or is not functional, a manual latitude/longitude position and UTC should be entered and used in the DSC distress transmitted message. When valid Lat/Lon information is detected, the data is displayed on the LCD. When there is no valid position information, NO GPS INFORMATION appears.

6.7.1 MANUAL ENTER GPS DATE

If no GPS data is available, the NO GPS INFORMATION appears, and after 2 minutes PLEASE INPUT POSITION!! is displayed with NO GPS. An Alarm sounds for 10 sec or until any key is pressed.

The manual entry function is only valid if no GPS is connected. Select GPS/TIME then MANUAL. Enter the latitude, then the longitude, then the UTC. Press the CH knob when all the information is correct. The vessel's lat/lon with the UTC time are shown on the screen. The manual entries are cancelled if a real GPS position is received.

6.7.2 SETTINGS

You can also set what time and position information is displayed on the screen:

• Whether Position data is displayed
• Whether the time is displayed
• Whether a Time Zone Offset is used
• How the time data is formatted
• Whether COG/SOG data is displayed
• Whether GPS ALERT is used.

6.7.2.1 POSITION DISPLAY ON/OFF

You can choose whether the position data is displayed in normal mode or not.

1. Select GPS/TIME then SETTINGS, then POS DISPLY.
2. Select ON (on) or OFF (off) as desired. This is an example; selected ON and the screen shows the vessel position.

SETTINGS >POS DISPLY TIME DISPLY TIME OFFSET

POS DISPLY ON > OFF

DISTRESS 27°34.1268 N 82°55.5587 W 356°12.6Kts

6.7.2.2 TIME DISPLAY ON/OFF

You can turn the time displayed in normal mode on or off.

1. Select GPS/TIME then SETTINGS, then TIME DISPLY.
2. Select ON (on) or OFF (off) as desired. In this example, selected ON and the screen shows the vessel TIME.

SETTINGS TIME FORMAT COG/SOG >TIME DISPLY

TIME DISPLAY ON > OFF

COAST GUARD 27°45.1234N 112°36.5678W 08:25 UTC

6.7.2.3 LOCAL TIME (TIME OFFSET)

You can set the add/subtract value from UTC time to equal local time. When an offset value is added, the time will be displayed as LOC instead of UTC.

First, set the offset direction or ... and then the value in 1/2 hr. steps. The updated result will be displayed immediately.

6.7.2.4 TIME FORMAT OPTIONS (TIME FORMAT)

You can choose to display time in 12 hr or 24 hr format.

6.7.2.5 COURSE/SPEED DISPLAY OPTIONS (COG/SOG)

You can enable COG (Course over Ground) and SOG (Speed over Ground) to be displayed in normal mode. If the TIME DISPLAY is turned ON, COG/SOG will be turned off automatically since it shares the same bottom line for display.

6.7.2.6 GPS ALERT

You can choose whether the NO GPS DATA alarm sounds on or off.

6.8 RADIO SETUP

Under Radio Setup submenu, there are 4 items that user can alter settings.

6.8.1 CHANNEL NAME DISPLAY AND EDITING

To set the channel name to ON or blank on the first line. A maximum of 12 characters can be set for the channel name. Channel name also allows editing. The procedure is the same as Buddy List edit procedures.

6.8.1.1 CHANNEL NAME DISPLAY

1. Select RADIO SETUP then CH NAME, then "DISPLAY NAME".
2. Select ON (on) or OFF (off) as desired. This is an example; select ON and press the CH knob, the screen shows the channel name.

CH NAME DISPLAY NAME >ON OFF

PORT OPS/ > EDIT DELETE

6.8.1.2 CHANNEL NAME EDITING

1. Select RADIO SETUP then CH NAME, then CH INFO. Select the desired channel name by rotating the CH knob and then press the CH knob. The screen shows the channel name and EDIT and DELETE.
2. Select EDIT and press the CH knob to edit the existing name tag. Input the new name over the existing name and press the CH knob to display the YES/NO confirmation.
3. Press the CH knob to confirm the new channel name, then press cancel to return to the menu.

CALLING DISPLAYNAME >CH INFO

CH INFO PORT OPS/

6.8.2 RING VOLUME ADJUSTMENT

1. Select the RING VOLUME using the CH knob, and then display the options HIGH and LOW as ringer tone setting.
2. Press the CH knob key again to confirm the changes.

RADIO SETUP CH NAME > RING VOLUME KEY BEEP

RING VOLUME >HIGH LOW

6.8.3 BEEP VOLUME ADJUSTMENT

1. The key beep tone volume level. Select the KEY BEEP using the CH knob, and then display the options - HIGH, LOW & OFF as key beep setting.
2. Press the CH knob key again to confirm the changes.

RADIO SETUP RING VOLUME KEY BEEP > KEY BEEP

BEEP VOLUME >HIGH LOW OFF

6.8.4 INT SPEAKER OPERATION

1. To set the internal speaker to open or close. Select RADIO SETUP then INT SPEAKER.
2. Select ON (on) or OFF (off) as desired.

RADIO SETUP KEY BEEP > INT SPEAKER

INT SPEAKER >ON OFF

6.9 DSC SETUP

The submenu is used to set the behavior of the DSC/ATIS function. The following 7 items are available for selection.

• User MMSI
• AUTO SWITCH
• Group Setup
• ATIS MMSI
• ATIS ENABLE
• DSC ENABLE
• POS REPLY

6.9.1 ENTER YOUR USER MMSI (USER MMIS)

This is a once-only operation. You must enter your user MMSI first, then you can access the DSC functions.

1. Select DSC SETUP then USER MMSI and press the CH knob. If an existing MMSI is stored, the values appear.
2. If the MMSI is blank, a dashed line appears. Enter user MMSI along the dashed line. Press the CH knob to confirm each correct entry to move to the next digit. If you make an error, press +/- key or rotate CH knob. < appears, then press the CH knob to backup and correct the entry.

INPUT USER MMSI

3. Hold the CH knob to store your user MMSI.
4. Enter your user MMSI again as a password check, hold the CH knob to permanently store your user MMSI and return to the menu.
5. You can view your stored user MMSI at any time by selecting user MMSI in the DSC SETUP menu.
6. If there is no USER MMSI stored and the radio's DSC function is attempted, the radio says "PLEASE INPUT USER MMSI" as below.

PLEASE INPUT USER MMSI

7. DSC WARNING MESSAGE

6.9.2 AUTO SWITCH

For an incoming All ships call, this option determines whether your radio automatically switches to the requested channel in 10 seconds if you do NOT press the CH knob to manually accept the channel change. Of course, by prompt, you may manually accept or decline the channel change.

This feature is useful for preventing your radio from switching channels while you are maintaining a continuous watch on a certain channel (for example, in a VTS controlled area) or working with other vessels (for example, for towage).

To ON/OFF the AUTO SWITCH option

1. From the DSC SETUP menu item, rotate the CH knob or press the Up/Down key until the arrow points to AUTO SWITCH.

DSC SETUP USER MMSI >AUTO SWITCH GROUT SETUP

AUTO SWITCH > ON OFF

2. Press the CH knob to accept.

Procedure When OFF

If you select OFF, on receipt of an All Ships Call you are presented with brief details of the call and advised that a change to the requested channel is available. You can either accept the channel change by pressing the CH knob or decline by pressing CANCEL, thereby continuing to monitor your current channel.

Procedure When ON

If you select ON, your radio automatically switches to the requested channel in 10 seconds if you do NOT press the CH knob to manually accept the channel change. Also in 10 seconds, you can either accept the channel change by pressing the CH knob or decline by pressing CANCEL. Note: The incoming call display is as above picture of the Procedure When OFF.

6.9.3 MAINTAIN GROUPS

You can program up to three group MMSI numbers and associated Group names. Group MMSI numbers always begin with a zero (0). You only enter the last 8 digits of the group ID number; the initial "0" is automatically entered.

6.9.3.1 ENTER YOUR GROUPS

1. Select GROUP SETUP and the cursor is at <MANUAL NEW>. If existing names & MMSI data are stored, the values appear. If it is blank, only MANUAL NEW appears on LCD.

DSC SETUP AUTO SWITCH >GROUP SETUP ATIS MMSI

GROUP SETUP >MANUAL NEW EILEEN

GROUP NAME GROUP MMSI O

2. The entry procedures are the same as that of the BUDDY LIST.

6.9.3.2 EDIT USER GROUPS

1. Select DSC SET/UP then GROUP SETUP and press the CH knob. The existing names & MMSI data are displayed on screen. Select the Group name or, only the MMSI that you wanted.
2. Press the CH knob to edit. The entry procedures are the same as that of the BUDDY LIST.
3. When the edition is finished, press the CH knob to store the changes and return to the GROUP MMSI screen.

GROUP SETUP MANUAL NEW >EILEEN FRIENDS

EILEEN 053421608 >EDIT DELETE

EDIT NAME >EILEEN EDIT MMSI 053421608

6.9.3.3 DELETE A GROUP

1. Select GROUP SETUP and press the CH knob. The existing group names are displayed on screen.
2. Select the one you want to delete and press the CH knob. This will display EDIT or DELETE item.
3. Select DELETE and press the CH knob. This will display the DELETE GROUP menu with the arrow pointing to YES. Then press the CH knob to empty the group and return to the GROUP SETUP screen. The LCD displays the group as follows.

EILEEN 053421608 EDIT > DELETE

DELETEGROUP EILEEN > YES NO

GROUP SETUP MANUAL NEW > FRIENDS CHANG

6.9.4 ENTER YOUR ATIS MMSI

This is a once-only operation. You must enter your ATIS MMSI first, then you can access the ATIS functions.

1. Select DSC SETUP then ATIS MMSI and press the CH knob. If an existing MMSI is stored, the values appear.
2. If the MMSI is blank, a dashed line appears, except for the initial '9'. Enter ATIS MMSI along the dashed line. Press the CH knob to confirm each correct entry to move to the next digit. If you make an error, press - until < appears, then press the CH knob to backup and correct the entry.

INPUT ATIS MMSI 9

ATIS MMSI INPUT AGAIN 9

ATIS MMSI 9100000053 > STORE CANCEL

3. Hold the CH knob to store your ATIS MMSI.
4. Enter your ATIS MMSI again as a password check, hold the CH knob to permanently store your ATIS MMSI and return to the menu.
5. You can view your stored ATIS MMSI at any time by selecting ATIS MMSI in the DSC SETUP menu.

6.9.5 ATIS ENABLE

When ATIS is enabled, the following occurs:

• DSC functions are disabled.
• DUAL watch, Tri Watch and scan functions are disabled.
• The following international channels are limited to 1 watt output power: 6, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 71, 72, 74, 75, 76, 77 (and 31, if enabled).

To enable/disable ATIS:

1. Select DSC SETUP, then ATIS ENABLE. Press the CH knob to display ATIS ENABLE ON/OFF.
2. Select ON to turn on the ATIS function.
3. Press the CH knob to confirm your choice and return to the menu.

DSC SETUP GROUP SETUP ATIS MMSI > ATIS ENABLE

ATIS ENABLE >ON OFF

6.9.6 DSC ENABLE

To temporarily turn off the DSC function, such as sailing to inland water or a non-DSC region.

1. Select DSC SETUP, then DSC ENABLE. Press the CH knob to display DSC ENABLE ON/OFF.
2. Select OFF to turn off the DSC function.
3. Press the CH knob to confirm your choice and return to the menu.

DSC SETUP ATIS MMSI ATIS ENABLE >DSC ENABLE

DSC ENABLE >ON OFF

6.9.7 POS REPLY

You can set the radio to respond to a Position Request in one of three ways: automatic, manual, or off.

1. Select DSC SETUP, then POS REPLY. Then press the CH knob, the MANUAL, AUTO, OFF appear on the screen.
2. Select your response and press the CH knob to confirm and return to the menu.

DSC SETUP ATIS ENABLE DSC ENABLE >POS REPLAY

POS REPLY > MANUAL AUTO OFF

6.10 BLUETOOTH MODE PAIRING AND PROGRAMMING

Bluetooth wireless technology is a standard which has been developed for use in mobile phones and other devices. This radio can be wirelessly linked to your mobile phone if your mobile phone also has Bluetooth. This process of linking your mobile phone and this radio is called "Pairing." Once paired, this radio can act as the speaker and microphone of your mobile phone while your phone is stowed in a safe and dry location. This section shows you how to complete the pairing process. It also shows you how to change some settings related to the Bluetooth functionality of your radio.

6.10.1 PAIRING YOUR MOBILE PHONE:

1. Select BLUETOOTH, then select PAIR and press the CH knob to enter Bluetooth pairing mode. The LCD will appear.

PAIR CODE: 0000 STARTING: 495 STATE: UNPAIR

Your radio is now in a "Pairing Mode" and can be "found" by your phone. 2 Follow the mobile phone's instructions to search for available pairing with another Bluetooth device. This can often be found in the Tools or Settings menu of your mobile phone. Enter the "P.I.N." (Personal Identification Number 0000) on your mobile phone when prompted. Wait for the pairing process to complete. 3 You will then see a confirmation of successful pairing or a notice if pairing did not occur.

PAIR STATE: CONNECT

2. Successful pairing shows ?️ icon.

NOTE: This process only needs to be completed for first-time operation. From then on, as long as your mobile phone is within 10 meters (30 feet) of the radio, the two units will "Pair" automatically. A ?️ will now be displayed.

6.10.2 BLUETOOTH MODE PROGRAMMING

The default settings for how your radio answers and conducts Bluetooth mobile phone calls can be adjusted.

6.10.2.1 BLUETOOTH RADIO ON/OFF

This setting allows you to turn On and Off the small Bluetooth radio inside this VHF radio. The default setting is ON. Turning it Off can save some power. It can easily be switched On at any time by this menu.

To Set Bluetooth On and Off:

1. Select BLUETOOTH, press the CH knob to display as below:

BLUETOOTH >ON / OFF VOX ENABLE RING TONE

2. Then select ON/OFF, press the CH knob to enter the next screen:

ON / OFF >ON OFF

3. Press Channel UP/ Down button or rotate the CH knob to select ON or OFF. Then press the CH knob to save this entry. The radio on normal mode will show the ?️ or ?️ icon.

DISTRESS 45°11.1234N 102°23.3121W 12:00PM LOC

DISTRESS 45°11.1234N 102°23.3121W 12:00PM LOC

Note: If set the menu to OFF, it will hide the other 4 items.

6.10.2.2 VOX ON OR OFF

The VOX function converts the radio microphone's pickup of your voice from being controlled by the PTT button to being activated by your voice. When VOX is On, the PTT button does not need to be pressed to transmit your voice, and you can just speak into the microphone. When VOX is Off, you need to press the PTT button while speaking.

To Change Between VOX On and Off:

1. Select BLUETOOTH, then select VOX and press the CH knob to access the Setup menu. The default setting is OFF.

BLUETOOTH ON / OFF >VOX ENABLE RING TONE

VOX > ON OFF

2. Press Channel UP/ Down button or rotate the CH knob to select ON or OFF. Then press the CH knob to save this entry. The radio on normal mode will show the VOX icon ON or OFF.

DISTRESS 45°11.1234N 102°23.3121W 12:00PM LOC

DISTRESS 45°11.1234N 102°23.3121W 12:00PM LOC

Set VOX ON shows VOX icon. Set VOX OFF lights off VOX icon.

6.10.2.3 CALL TONE SELECT (RING TONES)

This setting controls what ring tone is used to alert for incoming calls on your mobile phone. Ten different ringtones and FROM MOBILE are available from which to choose.

To Set Call Tone:

1. Select BLUETOOTH, then select RONG TONE and press the CH knob to access the Setup menu. The default setting is TONE DISABLE.

BLUETOOTH VOX ENABLE >RING TONE CONNECT

RING TONE >FROM MOBILE TONE 1 TONE 2

2. Press Channel UP/ Down button or rotate the CH knob to select a different Call Tone. An example of each call tone will sound for 1.5 seconds.
3. Press the CH knob to save this entry.

Note: FROM MOBILE --- External alert tone from mobile phone; Ten different ringtones---Internal alert tone.

6.10.4 CONNECT SETTING

If you only want to disconnect the Bluetooth to avoid it interfering with your radio's talking or DSC call receiving, you may use this menu to disconnect the Bluetooth function.

To Set connect:

1. Select BLUETOOTH, then select CONNECT and press the CH knob to access the Setup menu.

BLUETOOTH VOX ENABLE RING TONE >CONNECT

CONNECT > ON OFF

2. Press Channel UP/ Down button or rotate the CH knob to select ON or OFF.
3. Press the CH knob to save this entry.

Connect ON shows ?️ icon. Connect OFF shows ?️ icon.

6.11 RESET

This feature resets every setting to the factory defaults, except USER MMSI and GROUP MMSI, ATIS MMSI.

1. Select RESET, press CH key, the radio asks for confirmation.
2. Select YES, press CH key to reset the radio and return to the menu.

MENU SELECT RADIO SETUP DSC SETUP > RESET

RESET ARE YOU SURE >YES NO

MENU SELECT RADIO SETUP DSC SETUP > RESET

7 MOBILE PHONE OPERATION WITH BLUETOOTH

NOTE: Please refer to the Bluetooth Mode Pairing and Programming section on chapter 6.10 for instructions on how to pair your Mobile Phone with this device, change ring tones, etc. The following section covers how to complete a phone call and other basic operations.

7.1 ANSWER INCOMING PHONE CALLS

This Marine Radio, once properly paired to your Bluetooth compatible mobile phone, can answer incoming calls received on your mobile phone. It can act as the speaker and microphone, while your mobile phone stays safe and dry. It will also improve audio quality on both ends of the conversation.

To Answer and End an Incoming Call:

1. The speaker on the RT-550BT will ring. The display will change and show the word "ANSWER" as shown.

DISTRESS 45°11.1234N 102°23.3121W 12:00PM LOC

Incoming call shows "ANSWER" word.

2. Press and release the Bluetooth button on the RT-550BT front panel. After the call is answered, the LCD will switch to "CONNECT" as illustrated.

DISTRESS 45°11.1234N 102°23.3121W 12:00PM LOC

Call connected shows "CONNECT" word.

3. Begin conversation with the caller by pressing the PTT (Push to Talk) key and speaking into the small microphone on the Handset. This is very similar to a standard radio operation and it completely eliminates all background noise when you are not speaking.

NOTE: To enable hands-free conversation or "VOX" mode (pressing the PTT key not required), set VOX ON via Bluetooth menu (see chapter 6.10.2.2). The "VOX" icon will turn on when VOX mode is enabled. The Bluetooth "VOX" setting does NOT reset to Off after a power cycle unlike the normal VOX associated with VHF mode.

To end a call, press and release the Bluetooth button. The RT-550BT will show "END CONNECT" word then return to the previous Standby mode and resume normal operation.

When ending answering shows "END CONNECT" word.

7.2 INITIATE A PHONE CALL

There are several ways to initiate a call. These include: initiating (as normal) from the mobile phone, using voice dialing and last number redial. To Initiate from the Mobile Phone:

1. Simply dial a number on your mobile phone. (See manufacturer's instructions for making a call.) When the phone's Send key is pressed, the RT-550BT will respond by changing over to Bluetooth mode and displaying "DIALING" as illustrated.

DISTRESS 45°11.1234N 102°23.3121W 12:00PM LOC

When dialing shows "DIALING" word.

2. You will see "CONNECT" when the receiving party, or their voice mail, answers.

DISTRESS 45°11.1234N 102°23.3121W 12:00PM LOC

Call connected shows "CONNECT" word.

3. To end a call, press and release the Bluetooth button. The RT-550BT will show "END CONNECT" word then return to the previous Standby mode and resume normal operation.

DISTRESS 45°11.1234N 102°23.3121W 12:00PM LOC

When ending answering shows "END CONNECT" word.

7.3 USING VOICE DIAL

This feature allows you to use your voice to dial a contact from the contact list on your mobile phone.

NOTE: Voice dialing is an advanced function and may not be supported by all phones. NAVICOM suggests you set it up and become familiar with it on your mobile phone before you attempt using it in conjunction with the RT-550BT or another Bluetooth device. This is an advanced function and not all mobile phone combinations will be successful. Some allow you to set pre-recorded contacts. Some advanced phones have active voice recognition and match your mobile phone's contact list.

To Initiate a Voice Dial Call:

1. Press and release the Bluetooth button twice (2x) from Standby mode. This will initiate the voice dial feature on the paired mobile phone. You will hear a beep or audio command from the phone and see "PLEASE SPEAK!" on its LCD. Press and hold the PTT (Push to Talk) button and speak the name into the RT-550BT.

DISTRESS PLEASE SPEAK!

The mobile phone will begin to dial the contact it "recognizes." The call will be completed through the speaker and microphone of the RT-550BT. You will see the "DIALING" and "CONNECT" screens as the call is completed.

Hang up by pressing the Bluetooth button when you complete your call.

7.4 LAST NUMBER REDIAL

This feature allows you to redial the last number stored in the mobile phone's internal Call Log. This feature is supported by most mobile phones.

To Initiate a Last Number Redial:

1. From Standby mode, press and hold the Bluetooth button for two (2) seconds.
2. The paired mobile phone will redial the last number. The call will be completed through the speaker and microphone of the RT-550BT.
3. Hang up by pressing the Bluetooth button when you complete your call.

7.5 TO END PAIRING (AT THE END OF THE DAY)

You might not want to take your calls through this VHF radio once you are back at the dock or in a dry location. See the instructions in the Bluetooth Mode Programming section on chapter 6.10 for instructions on how to Turn OFF the Bluetooth function of the RT-550BT. The ?️ will disappear from the Bluetooth Standby screen.

NOTE: If switched to OFF setting, then the RT-550BT will not reconnect with mobile phone on power up. It must be turned back ON again from the Bluetooth menu option.

7.6 GENERAL BLUETOOTH OPERATION AND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the Industry Standard Range for Bluetooth Wireless Technology?

The industry standard range for Bluetooth wireless technology is 10 meters (30 feet). The RT-550BT will lose its pairing with the mobile phone if the mobile phone and the RT-550BT are separated further than this. The RT-550BT will automatically reconnect with cell phone when user comes back into range.

How many phones can the RT-550BT pair with?

The RT-550BT can only pair with one mobile phone at a time. This is the standard operation for any Bluetooth headset or in-car Bluetooth system.

Do I need to have my mobile phone with me?

Yes, the phone call is actually completed through your mobile phone and your mobile phone operator/carrier. The mobile phone must be within the 10 meters (30 feet) range of the RT-550BT. The RT-550BT does not increase the offshore range of your mobile phone.

Can I use a standard Bluetooth headset with this radio?

No, the RT-550BT is using the headset profile of the Bluetooth specification to pair with your mobile phone. It cannot pair to another Bluetooth headset.

Can I use this unit as a speakerphone or hands-free device?

Turning on VOX allows you to use the radio without pressing the PTT (Push to Talk) button. The radio will still need to be operated in a face-held position with the microphone close to the mouth. This radio uses a noise-canceling microphone, and it will not operate well from the belt clip or another hands-free position.

Please make sure to note your VOX setting.

If VOX is set to On, then the receiving caller might hear conversation and noise in your background. This setting is retained in memory. If switched On, then it will be On the next time the radio is switched On and paired.

Can I use my mobile phone for emergency use?

No, NAVICOM does not endorse mobile phones as a substitute for marine radios. They generally cannot communicate with rescue vessels and, if you make a distress call on your mobile phone, only the party you call will be able to hear you. Additionally, mobile phones may have limited coverage over water. If you do not know where you are, the coastguard will have difficulty finding you if you are using your mobile phone. However, mobile phones can have a place on board where mobile coverage is available – to allow social conversations and keep the marine frequencies uncluttered and available for their intended use.

8 MAINTENANCE

Your VHF Marine Radio RT-550BT is a marine radio of waterproof, which can meet the requirement of JIS level 7, giving you good reliability when using in a marine circumstance.

The equipment is designed to be maintenance-free. To keep your radio in good working condition:

• Never unscrew the equipment, either the base station or handset, as in such case, the waterproof performance will be greatly damaged.
• If the radio becomes dirty and dusty, wipe it clean with a moist cloth, but pay attention to never using solvents like benzene or alcohol, for they may damage the radio surfaces.
• Once your equipment does not work properly, never allow an unqualified person to tamper with internal adjustments. Please contact the local dealer for help.

TROUBLESHOOTING

9 SPECIFICATION

Notes: KEY: S=Simplex operating channel; D=Duplex operating channel.

1. Low Power (1W) only.
2. 1W PTT HI : override to HIGH POWER by holding down H/L key before transmitting. Used normally in bridge-to-bridge communications.
3. The text "A" illuminated by the channel number indicates the USA channel is simplex. This same channel is always duplex when selecting international. There is no "A" reference for international channels.