Manuals+

Cobra MR HH500 FLT BT VHF Marine Radio Owner's Manual

Brand: Cobra

Model: MR HH500 FLT BT

Introduction

Our Thanks to You and Customer Assistance

Our Thanks to You

Thank you for purchasing a CobraMarine® VHF radio. Properly used, this Cobra® product will give you many years of reliable service.

How Your CobraMarine VHF Radio Works

This radio is a battery-powered portable transceiver for use afloat. It provides two-way vessel-to-vessel and vessel-to-shore communication, primarily for safety and secondarily for navigation and operational purposes. It allows you to call for help, get information from other boaters, talk to lock or bridge tenders, and make radiotelephone calls anywhere in the world through a marine operator. Additionally, the radio provides quick access to all NOAA weather channels and alerts you to weather emergencies with a tone on a selected weather channel.

Customer Assistance

Should you encounter any problems or not understand its features, refer to this manual. For further assistance, Cobra Electronics offers:

Outside the U.S.A.: Contact Your Local Dealer.

Radio Controls and Indicators

Antenna: Connects to the radio for transmitting and receiving signals.

Belt Clip: Attaches to your belt for carrying the radio.

Backlit LCD Screen: Displays radio status, channel, and menu information.

Push to Talk (PTT) Button: Press and hold to transmit; release to receive.

Speaker/Microphone External Cover: Protects the speaker and microphone.

ON/OFF/Volume Control: Turns the radio on/off and adjusts volume.

Battery Door Screw: Secures the battery compartment.

Channel Down Button: Decreases the channel number.

Backlight/Key Lock Button: Activates backlight or locks/unlocks buttons.

Bluetooth Button: Activates Bluetooth functions.

Call/Enter/Setup Button: Used for transmitting call tones, entering setup menus, and confirming selections.

Tri-Watch Button: Activates Tri-Watch mode to monitor three channels.

SCAN Button: Initiates channel or memory scanning.

Bluetooth Microphone: Integrated microphone for Bluetooth calls.

Channel Up Button: Increases the channel number.

Rewind-Say-Again® Button: Replays the last 20 seconds of audio.

Instant Channel 16/9 Button: Provides quick access to Channels 16 and 9.

Memory/Escape Button: Accesses memory channels or exits menus.

Power Level/Weather Button: Selects transmit power (1, 3, 6 watts) or accesses weather functions.

VHF Microphone: Integrated microphone for VHF transmissions.

Backlit LCD Screen and Product Features

Backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen

The LCD screen displays various icons and information:

Product Features

Important Safety Information

Read general precautions and warnings before installing and using the radio.

Warning and Notice Statements

⚠️ WARNING: Identifies conditions that could result in personal injury or loss of life.

ℹ️ NOTICE: Identifies conditions that could cause damage to the radio or other equipment.

Safety Training Information

This radio complies with RF energy and electromagnetic energy level guidelines, including:

General Precautions

⚠️ WARNINGS:

Industry Canada Antenna Notice

Transmitter may only operate with an approved antenna of a type and maximum gain approved by Industry Canada. Antenna type and gain should be chosen so that equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than necessary for successful communication.

ℹ️ NOTICE:

Changes or modifications may void FCC compliance.

Recommendations for Marine Communication

Frequencies are set aside for safety and navigation. For longer distances, consider a higher-powered handheld or fixed-mount radio. For offshore travel, consider HF single side band or satellite radio. Cellular telephones are not a substitute for marine radios; they cannot communicate with rescue vessels and may have limited coverage and location accuracy.

FCC Licensing Information

Sea Tow Automated Radio Check (ARC) System

Use the Sea Tow Automated Radio Check service for automated radio checks. Available in specific regions. Tune VHF to Channels 24-28, key mic, and ask for a radio check. System provides automated reply and replays your transmission. Find channels at ? www.seatow.com/arc.

FCC Licensing Information

CobraMarine VHF radios comply with FCC regulations for the Maritime Radio Service. The radio operates on allocated marine channels and is switchable for U.S.A., International, or Canadian regulations. It provides instant access to Channel 16, Channel 9, and NOAA All Hazards Radio with Alert.

Station License

An FCC ship station license is no longer required for vessels in U.S.A. waters using VHF radio, RADAR, or EPIRB, unless required to carry radio equipment. Vessels on international voyages or carrying HF single side band or marine satellite terminals must obtain a station license. FCC forms are available at ? www.fcc.gov or by calling 888-225-5322.

International Station License

For vessels entering foreign waters, contact that country's communications regulatory authority for licensing information.

Radio Call Sign

The FCC does not require recreational boaters to have a license. The U.S. Coast Guard recommends using the boat's registration number and state of registry as a call sign.

Canadian Ship Station License

A Radio Operator's Certificate is needed for operation in Canadian waters. Training is available from the Canadian Power Squadron (? www.cps-ecp.ca).

User Responsibility and Operating Locations

Users must observe domestic and foreign government regulations. VHF frequencies are reserved for marine use and require a special license for land operation.

NOTE: This device complies with FCC Part 15 and Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standards, subject to two conditions: no harmful interference, and acceptance of any received interference.

FCC Warnings: Unauthorized modifications may violate FCC technical regulations or type acceptance requirements.

Installation

Included in this Package

Your CobraMarine VHF radio package should include:

Install/Remove Antenna

  1. To Install: Turn the antenna clockwise into the radio until tight. Do not overtighten.
  2. To Remove: Turn the antenna counterclockwise.

This radio transmitter (IC: 906A-MRHH500) is approved by Industry Canada for use with the supplied antenna. Other antennas are strictly prohibited.

Wrist Strap and Belt Clip

Belt Clip

Use the spring-loaded belt clip to carry the radio.

  1. Slide the belt clip into the guide channel on the back of the radio until it locks.
  2. To attach the wrist strap, insert it through the hole at the top of the belt clip, feed it through the looped end, and pull tight.
  3. Press the belt clip open, slide it over your belt, and release the clip.
  4. To remove, press the tab on the belt clip to unlock and slide it out.

Batteries and Charger

The radio ships with a rechargeable LiON battery pack (P/N CM 110-026).

⚠️ WARNING: Use only the provided charger for the LiON battery pack. Do not charge other battery types, as this may cause fire, explosion, or battery damage. Avoid extreme room temperatures to prolong battery life.

The radio can also operate with five (5) AA alkaline batteries using the included tray.

Installing the Battery Pack

  1. Position the battery pack over the back of the radio.
  2. Engage the pack by sliding it upwards until fully seated.
  3. Tighten the screw using the end of the belt clip to secure the pack. Do not overtighten.

Batteries and Charger

Initial Battery Charge

The LiON battery pack can be charged at home, in a car, or on a boat using the appropriate 12V or 120V power cord with the charger.

  1. Insert a power cord into the back of the drop-in charger.
  2. Connect the other end to a power source (12V or 120V).
  3. Remove the battery pack spacer from the charger and insert the radio/battery. Charging contacts should align.
  4. A red light on the charger indicates proper seating and operation.
  5. Allow 5-6 hours for a full charge. The light turns green when fully charged.

⚠️ WARNING: Only the LiON battery pack is rechargeable. Use only provided charging devices. Using other chargers may result in battery damage, fire, or explosion. Prevent LiON battery pack from freezing for best performance.

NOTE: If using the drop-in charger on a boat, secure it to a shelf or bulkhead to prevent damage from rolling or pitching.

To Remove Battery Pack from Radio

  1. Loosen the screw on the back of the battery pack.
  2. Slightly lift the bottom of the pack to remove it from the radio housing.
  3. Pull the battery pack out.

NOTE: The LiON battery pack can also be charged separately in the charger. Use the spacer for support.

NOTICE: LiON batteries are toxic. Dispose of them properly. Many marine suppliers and retailers accept old battery packs for recycling.

Alkaline Batteries

The alkaline battery tray provides a backup/emergency power source. The radio transmits at full power with five (5) new AA alkaline batteries.

⚠️ WARNING: Never attempt to recharge alkaline batteries. Dispose of them properly.

Maintaining the Battery Charge

The battery power icon indicates remaining charge. When it flashes, recharge or change batteries.

NOTE: Radio can receive signals when blinking but cannot transmit.

NOTICE: Use only the Cobra drop-in charger. Do not use with alkaline batteries; only the LiON pack is rechargeable. Spent alkaline batteries must be discarded and replaced.

Keep a set of fresh AA alkaline batteries with your radio for backup.

Getting Started

Refer to the foldout at the front for controls and indicators. 'Press' means a momentary press (approx. 1 second); 'Press and Hold' means approx. 2 seconds.

Pressing any button (except PTT) sounds a brief tone (if key tones are On). Icons appear on the LCD, and the backlight turns on for 10 seconds.

Two beeps confirm setting changes; three beeps indicate an error.

Common Radio Functions

Power/Volume Control

The On/Off/Volume control (upper right) turns the radio on/off and adjusts volume. Turn clockwise to increase, counterclockwise to decrease.

Radio Speaker and Microphone

Internal speaker and microphone are on the bottom front. An optional Speaker/Microphone port is located at the top.

Talk Button

Press and hold to transmit; release to receive. The transmit icon appears on the LCD.

NOTE: Transmitting for 5 minutes continuously will cause the radio to beep and cease transmission to prevent signal generation and battery drain.

Backlight/Key Lock Button

Press to momentarily display the backlight (stays on for 10 seconds). Pressing again turns it off.

Key Lock

To prevent accidental changes, press and hold the Backlight/Key Lock button for 2 seconds to lock/unlock buttons. The Key Lock icon appears/disappears. When locked, pressing other buttons results in a 3-beep error. The Backlight/Key Lock and Talk buttons remain active.

Channel Up/Down Buttons

Use to change channels. Pressing and holding provides fast advance. The radio automatically switches to Low Power mode if a selected channel is restricted. Key Lock mode prevents channel changes.

SCAN Button

Press to scan all channels (SCAN icon displays). Press Channel Up/Down to change scan direction. The radio pauses for 10 seconds on a received signal. Press SCAN again to exit.

In Memory mode, SCAN scans only memory channels.

Setup Mode Programming

This section guides you through setting programmable features. If idle for 15 seconds in Setup mode, the entry is saved, and the radio returns to Marine Standby.

Marine (VHF) Mode Programming

Start from Marine Standby mode. Press and hold Call/Enter/Setup for 2 seconds to enter programming mode. The sequence includes:

Squelch Control

Filters weak signals and RF noise. To set:

  1. Press and hold Call/Enter/Setup to access Setup menu.
  2. Use Channel Up/Down to set squelch level. A bar graph shows the level.
  3. To adjust: press Channel Down until hissing, then press Channel Up until hissing stops (baseline squelch). Pressing Channel Up further filters signals; pressing Channel Down receives weaker signals.
  4. Press Call/Enter/Setup to save and move to the next setting.

NOTE: If squelch is set too high (continuous hissing), Memory Scan and Tri-Watch functions may be blocked.

USA/International/Canada Channel Maps

Select the channel map (U, I, or C) by pressing Channel Up/Down and confirming with Call/Enter/Setup.

NOTE: Some channel maps may be disabled in certain countries.

Call Tone Alert

Set to ON to receive Cobra call tone alerts for mobile phone calls; OFF uses the phone's default ring tone. Configure using Channel Up/Down and Call/Enter/Setup.

Call Tone Select (Ring Tones)

Choose from 10 selectable ring tones for mobile phone calls. An example of each tone plays for 1.5 seconds. Configure using Channel Up/Down and Call/Enter/Setup.

NOTE: Call Tones are primarily for compatibility with other Cobra VHF radios.

Roger Beep Mode

Enable/disable Roger Beep (ROG icon). When ON, a tone sounds when you release the Talk button, signaling it's clear to speak. Configure using Channel Up/Down and Call/Enter/Setup.

Key Tone Mode

Enable/disable Key Tone (audible tone for button presses). Configure using Channel Up/Down and Call/Enter/Setup.

Rewind Enable/Disable

Enable to record the last 20 seconds of incoming audio for playback. Configure using Channel Up/Down and Call/Enter/Setup.

Bluetooth® Mode Pairing and Programming

This section explains how to pair your mobile phone and adjust Bluetooth settings.

Pairing Your Mobile Phone

  1. Press Bluetooth button to enter BLUETOOTH Standby.
  2. Press and hold Bluetooth button for 4 seconds (from Standby) to enter Pairing Mode. The LCD will display PAIRING.
  3. On your mobile phone, search for Bluetooth devices and select the radio.
  4. Enter PIN 0000 if prompted.
  5. A confirmation of successful pairing (BLUETOOTH CONNECTED) will appear.

NOTE: Pairing is a one-time process. The radio will connect automatically within 30 feet (10 meters) thereafter.

Bluetooth Mode Programming

VOX On or Off

Activates voice control for microphone pickup, eliminating the need to press the PTT button. Configure using Call/Enter/Setup and Channel Up/Down.

Call Tone Alert

Enable/disable audible alerts for incoming mobile phone calls. Configure using Call/Enter/Setup and Channel Up/Down.

Call Tone Select (Ring Tones)

Choose from 10 selectable ring tones for mobile phone calls. Configure using Call/Enter/Setup and Channel Up/Down.

Bluetooth Radio On/Off

Turns the internal Bluetooth radio On or Off to save power. Default is ON. Configure using Channel Up/Down and Call/Enter/Setup.

Weather Mode Programming

To Set WX Alert On or Off

Enter WX Alert Setup from WX Standby mode. Press and hold Call/Enter/Setup for 2 seconds. Select ON or OFF using Channel Up/Down and confirm with Call/Enter/Setup.

To Set WX Auto Search (SCAN) On or Off

This option is shown if WX Alert is ON. Select ON or OFF using Channel Up/Down and confirm with Call/Enter/Setup.

NOTE: When WX Auto Search is ON, the radio scans all weather channels. It changes channels if the signal falls below squelch or if WX Alert is engaged.

Standby/Receive and Transmit

Marine Standby and Receive (Rx) Mode

This is the default mode. You can change settings and transmit using the PTT button. The radio receives signals on selected channels and NOAA alerts activate corresponding channels.

NOTE: Coast Guard alerts are on Channel 16. WX Alert must be ON to receive NOAA alerts.

Transmit (Tx) Mode

Allows interaction with safety services and other vessels. Use proper channels and courtesies.

  1. Ensure the radio is on the correct channel.
  2. Toggle to Low Power setting if needed.
  3. Press and hold the PTT button, speak into the microphone (approx. 2 inches/51 mm away). The transmit icon appears.
  4. Release PTT when finished. The radio operates in either Tx or Rx mode at a time.

NOAA Weather Channels and Alert

The radio provides continuous NOAA weather broadcasts. Taped messages are updated regularly. The Coast Guard also announces warnings on Channel 16. Smart boaters monitor weather and safety broadcasts.

NOAA Emergency Weather Alert

When Weather Alert mode is ON, a 1050 Hz tone signals an alert condition. The radio emits a loud tone and automatically switches to the alerting weather channel.

NOAA Test Alert System

NOAA broadcasts the 1050 Hz signal every Wednesday between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. local time for testing.

Weather (WX) Standby Mode

Enter/exit WX Standby mode by pressing and holding the WX/H-M-L button.

Receiving a Weather Alert

In WX Alert Standby mode, the LCD displays the WX icon, last used weather channel, signal strength, WX Alert icon, and WEATHER STANDBY status.

NOTE: Only one or two weather channels may be active in a location. Select the channel with the strongest signal. In WX Alert mode, the 1050 Hz alert tone sounds regardless of volume setting.

Advanced Operation

Channel 16/9 Mode

Provides quick access to Channel 16 or 9. Press the 16/9 button to switch between them or return to the last used channel.

Tri-Watch Mode

Monitors three channels: Channel 16 and two user-programmable channels. Squelch must be set for Tri-Watch to function.

Tri-Watch Setup

To program/edit Tri-Watch channels:

  1. Press and hold TRI-WATCH button for 2 seconds to enter Tri-Watch Setup.
  2. Use Channel Up/Down to select a channel.
  3. Press TRI-WATCH or Call/Enter/Setup to confirm.
  4. Repeat for the second channel.
  5. The radio will engage Tri-Watch mode after programming.

Using Tri-Watch

Press TRI-WATCH button to start scanning the three Tri-Watch channels. The radio pauses for 10 seconds on a signal. Press Channel Up/Down to resume scanning or change direction. Press TRI-WATCH again to exit.

Memory Location Mode

Stores frequently used channels. You can select or scan memory locations.

To Program Memory Locations

  1. Press and hold MEM/ESC for 2 seconds to enter programming.
  2. Use Channel Up/Down to select a memory location (00-99).
  3. Press MEM/ESC to select the location.
  4. Use Channel Up/Down to select the channel to store.
  5. Press MEM/ESC to program.
  6. Repeat for more locations.
  7. Press and hold MEM/ESC for 2 seconds to return to Memory mode, then press MEM/ESC again to return to Marine Standby.

To Recall a Stored Memory Location

Press MEM/ESC, select location with Channel Up/Down. The radio is now in Marine Standby on that channel.

To Erase Stored Memory Locations

Press and hold MEM/ESC for 2 seconds, select location, press MEM/ESC, set channel to '00' using Channel Up/Down, press MEM/ESC to erase. Repeat as needed. Return to Marine Standby as described above.

Channel Scan Mode

Rapidly switches between channels. Squelch must be set. Press SCAN button to start. Radio pauses for 10 seconds on a signal. Press Channel Up/Down to change direction. Press SCAN again to exit.

Memory Location Scan Mode

Rapidly scans pre-assigned memory channels. Requires at least two programmed memory locations. Squelch must be set. Press MEM/ESC, then SCAN to start. Pauses for 10 seconds on a signal. Press Channel Up/Down to change direction. Press SCAN again to exit.

Rewind Operation

Rewind-Say-Again® Feature

Replays or records the last 20 seconds of an incoming audio transmission.

Example 1:

Press REW to replay a message clearly, especially in noisy conditions.

Example 2:

Press REW to replay a distress message for life-saving information or to record call details.

NOTE: Hold Rewind button to lock recording memory.

Using Rewind-Say-Again®

  1. Press REW to listen to the last 20 seconds of audio. The display shows REWIND PLAYBACK and a countdown.
  2. Press TALK, REW, or MEM/ESC during playback to stop and return to Marine mode.

Using Rewind-Say-Again® to Record VOICE Audio Transmission

NOTE: If record memory is locked (rewind icon flashing), press and hold REW to unlock.

  1. Press and hold SCAN for 2 seconds to enter Record mode (MIC RECORDER displays).
  2. Press and hold PTT to begin recording. The matrix shows MIC RECORDER ON and seconds remaining. Recording stops when PTT is released or after 20 seconds.
  3. Press and hold SCAN for 2 seconds or press MEM/ESC to cancel recording.

Mobile Phone Operation With Bluetooth®

Refer to the Bluetooth Pairing section (page 22) for pairing instructions.

Answering a Call

When paired and connected, the radio can answer mobile phone calls, acting as speaker and microphone. This improves audio quality.

  1. The speaker rings, and the matrix displays ANSWER.
  2. Press the Bluetooth button to answer. The matrix displays IN CALL.
  3. Press the PTT button to speak into the microphone.
  4. NOTE: To enable hands-free (VOX) operation, use Channel Up/Down keys. The VOX icon will turn on. Bluetooth VOX setting does not reset to Off after power cycle.
  5. Press the Bluetooth button to end the call. The radio returns to Standby mode.

Initiate a Phone Call

Calls can be initiated from the mobile phone, via voice dialing, or last number redial.

To Initiate from the Mobile Phone

  1. Dial a number on your mobile phone.
  2. When Send is pressed, the radio displays DIALING.
  3. The matrix displays IN CALL when the recipient answers.
  4. Press the Bluetooth button to end the call.

Using Voice Dial

Dial contacts from your phone's list using voice commands.

NOTE: Voice dialing is an advanced function; familiarize yourself with it on your phone first.

  1. Enter Bluetooth Standby mode.
  2. Press Bluetooth button twice to initiate voice dial on the phone.
  3. Press PTT and speak the contact's name.
  4. The radio displays DIALING and IN CALL as the call connects.
  5. Press Bluetooth button to hang up.

Last Number Redial

Redials the last number from the mobile phone's call log.

  1. Enter Bluetooth Standby mode.
  2. Press and hold Bluetooth button for 2 seconds (2 beeps) to redial.
  3. The call connects through the radio's speaker and microphone.
  4. Press Bluetooth button to hang up.

To Disconnect (At the End of the Day)

Turn off the Bluetooth function via the Bluetooth Mode Programming section (page 23) to prevent automatic reconnection.

General Bluetooth Operation and Frequently Asked Questions

Floating Feature

Burp Feature

Expels water from the speaker grill, useful after submersion or heavy rain.

To Activate Burp:

  1. Press 16/9 and SCAN keys simultaneously.
  2. A Burp tone sounds for 8 seconds, displaying BURP on the matrix.
  3. Hold the radio with the speaker grill down to drain water.
  4. Radio returns to standby after 8 seconds.

Floating Radio

This radio is designed to float and is easily visible due to its orange center. It meets JIS7 (IPX7) specifications, meaning it operates after being submerged in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.

NOTE: Do not leave the radio floating permanently, as this may corrode battery contacts.

The radio floats only with its included LiON battery. Other batteries may cause it to sink.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Maintenance

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause(s) Solution(s)
No display on LCD when radio is turned On Batteries exhausted or not installed properly Recharge/replace batteries; reinstall batteries according to polarity.
Batteries run down quickly Batteries at end of life or low Replace with new batteries or recharge.
Will transmit at 1W or 3W, but not 6W Selected channel limited to 1 watt Switch to another channel.
Will not transmit Selected channel limited to receive only Switch to another channel.
No sound from speaker Volume too low or squelch too deep Re-adjust volume and squelch.
No response to button press Button lock is On Press Backlight/Key Lock button.
No answer to calls Out of range or signal blocked by terrain Switch to 3W or 6W, or move closer. Ensure line-of-sight.

VHF Marine Radio Procedures

Maintain Your Watch

Keep the radio ON and tuned to Channel 16 when underway, except when used for messages.

Power

Start with 1 watt for short-range calls. Increase to 3 watts, then 6 watts if needed. Lower wattage conserves battery and minimizes interference.

Calling Coast Stations

Call on assigned channels. Use Channel 16 if the assigned channel is unknown.

Calling Other Vessels

Call on Channel 16 or Channel 9 (preferred for recreational use). Ship-to-ship channels can also be used.

Initial Calling on Channel 16 or 9

Channel 16 is for initial contact and emergencies. Channel 9 is for non-emergency recreational calls to reduce congestion on Channel 16.

Limits on Calling

Do not call the same station for more than 30 seconds. Wait 2 minutes before calling again if no reply. After three attempts, wait 15 minutes.

Change Channels

After initial contact on a calling channel, switch to an appropriate working channel.

Station Identification

Identify your station by FCC call sign (if available), vessel name, and state registration number at the beginning and end of messages.

Prohibited Communications

You MUST NOT transmit:

Voice Calling

Listen to Channel 16 while standing by. Channel 16 is the distress and safety channel. Channel 9 is for general recreational calling.

To call another vessel or shore installation:

  1. Ensure radio is ON and in standby listening mode on Channel 16.
  2. When the channel is clear, press the Talk button and state: "[Called station name], THIS IS [your vessel name/call sign]."
  3. Once contact is made, switch to another working channel.

For Example: Corsair calling Vagabond.

Corsair: "Vagabond, this is Corsair. Over."

Vagabond: "Please switch and answer on Channel 68. Over."

Corsair: "Switching to Channel 68. Over."

NOTE: If no response, wait 2 minutes and repeat. Attempt contact three times, 2 minutes apart. If still no contact, wait 15 minutes. Sign off with call sign/vessel name and "out". Speak with microphone 2 inches (51 mm) from mouth, slightly off to the side.

NOTE: "Over" means reply expected; "Out" means finished.

Radiotelephone Calls

Make and receive calls via public coast stations for a fee. Consider registering with the operator for details. Transmissions are not private.

Emergency Messages and Distress Procedure

The ability to summon assistance is the primary reason for a VHF radio. The marine environment can be unforgiving.

The Coast Guard monitors Channel 16 for distress calls and coordinates rescue efforts. Communicate difficulties to the Coast Guard before they become emergencies.

Use Channel 16 for emergency messages. Transmit on high power. Do not send an emergency message for minor issues like running out of gas; call for assistance instead.

Marine Emergency Signals

The three international emergency signals are:

When using an emergency signal, speak it three times before the message.

If You Hear a Distress Call

Give distress calls priority. All stations must remain silent on Channel 16 during an emergency unless related to it. If a distress message is unanswered, respond. If the distressed vessel is not nearby, wait for others closer to acknowledge. You may relay messages even if you cannot render direct assistance.

Marine Distress Procedure

Speak slowly, clearly, and calmly.

  1. Ensure radio is ON.
  2. Select Channel 16.
  3. Say: "MAYDAY - MAYDAY - MAYDAY" (or PAN/SECURITE).
  4. Say: "THIS IS [your vessel name/call sign]," repeated three times.
  5. Say: "MAYDAY (or PAN/SECURITE) [your vessel name/call sign].
  6. State your location (navigational aids, landmarks).
  7. State the nature of your distress.
  8. State the kind of assistance needed.
  9. Give number of persons aboard and conditions of any injured.
  10. Estimate present seaworthiness of your vessel.
  11. Briefly describe your vessel (length, type, color, hull).
  12. Say: "I WILL BE LISTENING ON CHANNEL 16."
  13. End message: "THIS IS [your vessel name/call sign]. OVER."
  14. Release Talk button and listen. Repeat if necessary.

For Example:

"Mayday - Mayday - Mayday"

"This is Corsair - Corsair - Corsair" [or "IL 1234 AB," repeated three times]

"Mayday Corsair (or IL 1234 AB)"

"Navy Pier bears 220 degrees magnetic - distance 5 miles"

"Struck submerged object and flooding - need pump and tow"

"Four (4) adults, three (3) children aboard - no one injured"

"Estimate we will remain afloat one-half hour"

"Corsair (or IL 1234 AB) is 26 ft sloop with blue hull and tan deck house"

"I will be listening on Channel 16"

"This is Corsair (or IL 1234 AB)"

"Over"

It is recommended to write out a script and post it for easy reference during an emergency.

Warranty and Trademark Acknowledgement

Limited 3-Year Warranty (U.S.A. Purchases)

Cobra Electronics Corporation warrants the CobraMarine VHF radio and its components against defects in workmanship and materials for three (3) years from the date of first consumer purchase, provided the product is used within the U.S.A.

Cobra will repair or replace defective units at its option, free of charge, upon delivery to Cobra Factory Service with proof of purchase (e.g., sales receipt copy). Initial shipping charges to Cobra are the customer's responsibility; return shipping is at Cobra's expense if repaired or replaced under warranty.

Exclusions: This limited warranty does not apply to products damaged by accident, misuse, abuse, unauthorized alterations/repairs, or if the serial number is altered/removed. It also does not apply if the owner resides outside the U.S.A.

Implied warranties are limited to the duration of this warranty. Cobra is not liable for incidental or consequential damages.

Outside the U.S.A.: Contact your local dealer for warranty information.

Trademark Acknowledgement

Cobra®, CobraMarine®, Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®, and the snake design are registered trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA. Cobra Electronics Corporation™ is a trademark of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA.

Product Service

For questions about operation or installation, or if parts are missing, contact Cobra first. DO NOT return the product to the store. Call customer assistance on page A1.

For factory service, call Cobra first to ensure the fastest repair turnaround. You may be asked to send the radio to Cobra Factory Service. Include proof of purchase (photocopy of sales receipt), the entire product, a description of the issue, and your typed name/address for return. Pack securely, preferably in original material. Ship prepaid and insured via a traceable carrier (e.g., UPS, Priority Mail) to:

Cobra Factory Service
Cobra Electronics Corporation
6500 West Cortland Street
Chicago, Illinois 60707 U.S.A.

For warranty repairs, the radio will be repaired or exchanged. Allow approximately 3-4 weeks. Out-of-warranty repairs will be communicated via letter. Returned radios will have default settings restored.

For questions, call 773-889-3087.

Specifications

General

Number of ChannelsAll U.S., Canadian, International and NOAA Weather Channels
Channel Spacing25 kHz
Modulation5 kHz Max.
Input Voltage7.4 VDC
Battery Life (5% TX, 5% RX, 90% Standby)LiON: 8 hours @ 6 watts, 14 hours @ 1 watt
Current Drain: Standby45 mA
Current Drain: Receive (Rx)200 mA
Current Drain: Transmit (Tx)1.8 A @ High Power, 700 mA @ Low Power
Temperature Range-20°C to 50°C
Radio Dimensions4.8" x 2.4" x 1.4" (123 mm x 62 mm x 36 mm) not including antenna
Radio Weight0 lbs 8 oz. (228 g) without batteries

Receiver

Frequency Range156.050 to 163.275 MHz
Receiver TypeDouble Conversion Super-Heterodyne
Sensitivity (12 dB Sinad)-121 dBm
Adjacent Channel Selectivity-55 dB
Intermodulation and Rejection-70 dB
Spurious and Image Rejection-60 dB
AF Output250 mW @ 8 Ohms

Transmitter

Frequency Range (Tx)156.025 to 157.425 MHz
RF Output Power1, 3 or 6 Watts Max (5 Watts rated)
Spurious Emissions-55 dB
Microphone TypeCondenser
Frequency Stability±5 ppm
FM Hum and Noise40 dB

Bluetooth®

ClassificationClass 2.1
Version2.0
Range10 Meters

VHF Marine Channel Assignments

Three sets of VHF channels exist for marine use (USA, Canada, International). Most channels are the same across maps, but differences exist. Your radio supports all three maps.

Channel Assignments (English)

Asignaciones de canales (Español)

Channel Assignments (English) Summary:

ChannelUse (English)Use (Español)
24-28Sea Tow ARC (Automated Radio Check)RMCAR (Chequeo Automatizado de la Radio)
84-88*Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)Correspondencia pública (operador marítimo)
1A*, 5A*, 12*, 14*, 20A, 63A*, 65A, 66A, 73-77*Port Operations, VTS, Ship MovementOperaciones portuarias, VTS, Movimiento de embarcaciones
13, 67Navigational; Short messages, 1 watt max powerNavegación; Mensajes cortos, 1 vatio máx.
17Maritime ControlControl marítimo
70Digital Selective Calling (Voice prohibited)Llamadas selectivas digitales (voz prohibida)
Wx 1-10Weather Channels (Receive-only)Canales meteorológicos (solo recepción)

NOTE: Some channels are restricted for specific uses or regions. Consult FCC rules or a radio operator.

Weather Channel Assignments

Channel NumberRX Frequency MHzWeather Channel
1162.550NOAA
2162.400NOAA
3162.475NOAA
4162.425NOAA
5162.450NOAA
6162.500NOAA
7162.525NOAA
8161.650Canada
9161.775Canada
10163.275NOAA

Optional Accessories

Notes

Left blank intentionally for your notes.

Models: MR HH500 FLT BT Handheld Floating VHF Radio, MR HH500 FLT BT, Handheld Floating VHF Radio, Floating VHF Radio, VHF Radio, Radio

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