Cobra MR HH300 VP Marine VHF Radio User Manual

: June 17, 2024
: Cobra

Cobra MR HH300 VP Marine VHF Radio

Product Information

Specifications

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Product Usage Instructions

Getting Started
To begin using the product, please follow these steps:

Ensure that the product is properly connected to a power source.
Check that all necessary cables and accessories are securely attached.
Turn on the product using the power button located on the front panel.

Product Setup Follow these instructions for setting up the product:

Choose a suitable location for the product that is well-ventilated and free from obstructions.
Connect the product to any necessary external devices, such as a computer or audio system, using the provided cables.
Adjust any necessary settings on the product or connected devices to ensure proper functionality.

Product Operation
To operate the product, please refer to the following steps:

Use the control panel or remote control to navigate through the product’s menu options.
Select desired settings or functions using the appropriate buttons or controls.
Refer to the product’s user manual or on-screen instructions for specific operations and features.

Maintenance and Care
To keep your product in optimal condition, please follow these maintenance guidelines:

Clean the product regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that may damage the product’s surface.
Keep the product away from extreme temperatures, moisture, and direct sunlight.

Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues or problems with the product, please try the following troubleshooting steps:

Check all cable connections to ensure they are secure and properly plugged in.
Restart the product by turning it off and on again.
Refer to the product’s user manual or contact customer support for further assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Where can I find the user manual for this product?
A: The user manual for this product can be found at https://manual- hub.com/

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 gives you 2-way vessel-to-vessel and vessel-to-shore station communications, primarily for safety and secondarily for navigation and operational purposes. With it, you can call for help, get information from other boaters, talk to lock or bridge tenders, and make radiotelephone calls to anywhere in the world through a marine operator. Besides 2-way communications, the radio can provide quick access to receive all 10 NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) weather channels and alert you to weather emergencies with a tone on a weather channel you can select for your area.

Customer Assistance
Should you encounter any problems with this product, or not understand its many features, please refer to this owner’s manual. If you require furtherassistance after reading this manual, Cobra® Electronics offers the following
customer assistance services:
For Assistance in The U.S.A.
Automated Help Desk English only.
24 hours a day, 7 days a week 773-889-3087 (phone).
Customer Assistance Operators English and Spanish. 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT Mon. through Fri. (except holidays) 773-889-3087 (phone).
Questions English and Spanish.
Faxes can be received at 773-622-2269 (fax).
Technical Assistance English only.
www.cobra.com (on-line: Frequently Asked Questions).
English and Spanish. productinfo@cobra.com (e-mail).
For Assistance Outside The U.S.A.
Contact Your Local Dealer

Radio Controls

And Indicators

$Cobra-MR-HH300-VP-Marine-VHF-Radio-$69$$

Backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen

$Cobra-MR-HH300-VP-Marine-VHF-Radio-$2$$

Product Features

Dual Power
Selectable to one or five watts output power for near or distant calling. USA/International/Canada Channels Allows operation on any of the three different channel maps established for these areas.

10 NOAA Weather Channels
Instant access to all of the National Weather Channels, 24 hours a day.

Emergency Weather Alert
Can alert you with an audible tone and visual alarm if threatening weather is nearby.

Waterproof
Submersible to one meter of water for 30 minutes — meets JIS7 Standards.

Channel Scan
Lets you scan through channels to find conversations in progress.

Instant Channel 16/9
Instant access to priority Channel 16 and calling Channel 9.

Dual-Watch
Lets you monitor two channels at once — Channel 16 and one user programmable channel.

Important Safety Information

Before assembling and using your CobraMarine™ VHF radio, please read these general precautions and warnings.

Warning and caution statements
To make the most of this radio, it must be assembled and used properly. Please read the assembly and operating instructions carefully before assembling and using it. Special attention must be paid to the WARNING and CAUTION statements in this manual.

WARNING
Statements identify conditions that could result in personal injury or loss of life.

CAUTION
Statements identify conditions that could cause damage to the radio or other equipment.

Safety training information
This CobraMarine™ radio is designed for and classified as “Occupational Use Only.” It must only be used in the course of employment by individuals aware of both the hazards and the ways to minimize those hazards. This radio is NOT intended for use in an uncontrolled environment by the “General Population.” This radio has been tested and complies with the FCC RF exposure limits for “Occupational Use Only.” This CobraMarine™ VHF radio also complies with the following guidelines and standards regarding RF energy and electromagnetic energy levels as well as evaluation of those levels for human exposure:

FCC OET Bulletin 65 Edition 97-01 Supplement C, Evaluating Compliance with FCC Guidelines for Human Exposure to Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Fields.
American National Standards Institute (C95.1-1992), IEEE Standard for Safety Levels with Respect to Human Exposure to Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Fields, 3 kHz to 300 GHz.
American National Standards Institute (C95.3-1992), IEEE Recommended Practice for the Measurement of Potentially Hazardous Electromagnetic Fields — RF and Microwave.

The following WARNINGS and CAUTIONS will make you aware of RF exposure hazards and how to assure you operate the radio within the FCC RF exposure limits established for it.

WARNING
Your CobraMarine™ radio generates electromagnetic RF (radio frequency) energy when it is transmitting. To ensure that you and those around you are not exposed to excessive amounts of that energy (beyond FCC allowable limits for occupational use):

ALWAYS hold the radio, especially the antenna, at least two inches [five cm] away from you when you are transmitting.
NEVER allow the antenna to touch any part of your body when transmitting.
KEEP the radio and antenna at least as far from bystanders as from yourself.
DO NOT operate the radio without the supplied antenna or a Cobra® authorized replacement attachment. In addition to the RF energy exposure hazard, doing so may damage the radio.
DO NOT transmit more than 50% of the time the radio is in use — 50% duty cycle. The radio is transmitting when the Talk button is pressed and the Transmit icon shows on the LCD screen.
ALWAYS use only Cobra® authorized accessories (antennas, batteries, belt clips, etc.).
DO NOT operate the radio where RF energy generated during transmission may cause electromagnetic interference or incompatibility with other devices or systems. This includes aircraft, blasting sites and hospitals.
TURN OFF the radio in explosive atmospheres and where signs are posted prohibiting radio transmissions.
Failure to observe any of these warnings may cause you to exceed
FCC RF exposure limits or create other dangerous conditions.

CAUTION
Your radio is waterproof only when the antenna and batteries are properly installed.

AVOID using or storing the radio at temperatures below -4˚F (-20˚C) or above 140˚F (60˚C).
KEEP your radio at least three feet (0.9m) away from your vessel’s magnetic navigation compass.
DO NOT attempt to service any internal parts yourself. Have any necessary service performed by a qualified technician. When replacing the batteries, dispose of the old batteries properly. NiMH (Nickel-Metal Hydride) batteries may explode if disposed of in a fire.

Changes or modifications to your radio MAY VOID its compliance with FCC rules and make it illegal to use.

Recommendations for marine communication
The frequencies your radio uses are set aside to enhance safety afloat and for vessel navigation and operational messages over a range suitable for nearshore voyages. If the five watt maximum output of your radio isn’t sufficient for the distances you travel from the coast, consider installing a CobraMarine™ fixed mount radio with up to 25 watts of output power. (Visit www.cobra.com or your local dealer for model availability.) If you will be going far offshore, you should consider adding even more powerful radio equipment such as HF single side band or satellite radio for your vessel. The U.S. Coast Guard does not endorse cellular telephones as substitutes for marine radios. They generally cannot communicate with rescue vessels and, if you make a distress call on a cellular telephone, only the party you call will be able to hear you. Additionally, cellular telephones may have limited coverage over water and can be hard to locate. If you don’t know where you are, the Coast Guard will have difficulty finding you if you’re using a cellular telephone. However, cellular telephones can have a place on board where cellular coverage is available — to allow social conversations and keep the marine frequencies uncluttered and available for their intended uses.

FCC LICENSING INFORMATION

CobraMarine™ VHF radios comply with the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Service. The radio operates on all currently allocated marine channels and is switchable for use according to U.S.A., International or Canadian regulations. It features instant access to emergency Channel 16 and calling Channel 9 as well as NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) All Hazards Radio with Alert that can be accessed by pressing one key.

Station license
An FCC ship station license is no longer required for any vessel traveling in U.S.A. waters which uses a VHF marine radio, RADAR or EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon), and which is not required to carry radio equipment. However, any vessel required to carry a marine radio on an international voyage, carrying a HF single side band radiotelephone or carrying a marine satellite terminal must obtain a station license.
FCC license forms and applications for ship and land stations can be downloaded through the Internet at www.fcc.gov/forms. Forms can also be obtained by calling the FCC at 888-225-5322.

FCC Information
International station license
If your vessel will be entering the sovereign waters of a country other than the U.S.A. or Canada, you should contact that country’s communications regulatory authority for licensing information.

Radio call sign
Currently, the FCC does not require recreational boaters to have a license. The United States Coast Guard recommends that the boat’s registration number and state of registry (e.g., Illinois 1234 AB) be used as a call sign and be clearly visible on the vessel.

Canadian ship station license
This portable VHF radiotelephone is suitable ONLY for voluntary carriage onboard Canadian ships NOT subject to the Ship Station (Radio) Regulations, 1999. You may need a license if your vessel is operated in Canadian waters. Please contact the nearest field office or write: Industry of Canada, Radio Regulatory Branch,
Attn: DOSP, 300 Slater Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0C8.

User responsibility and operating locations
All users are responsible for observing domestic and foreign government regulations and are subject to severe penalties for violations. The VHF frequencies on your radio are reserved for marine use and require a special license to operate from land, including when your boat is on its trailer.

NOTE
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following 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 Warnings: Replacement or substitution of transistors, regular diodes, or other parts of a unique nature, with parts other than those recommended by Cobra® may cause a violation of the technical regulations of part 80 of the FCC Rules, or violation of type acceptance requirements of part 2 of the rules.

VHF Marine Radio Procedures

Maintain your watch
Whenever your boat is underway, the radio must be turned on and be tuned to Channel 16 except when being used for messages.

Power
Try one watt first if the station being called is within a few miles. If there is no answer, switch to a higher power. This will conserve your battery and minimize interference to other users.

Calling coast stations
Call a coast station on its assigned channel. You may use Channel 16 when you do not know the assigned channel.

Calling other vessels
Call other vessels on Channel 16 or on Channel 9. (Channel 9 is preferred for recreational vessel use.) You may also call on ship-to-ship channels when you know that the vessel is listening on a ship-to-ship channel.

Limits on calling
You must not call the same station for more than 30 seconds at a time. If you do not get a reply, wait at least two minutes before calling again. After three calling periods, wait at least 15 minutes before calling again.

Change channels
After contacting another station on a calling channel, change immediately to a channel which is available for the type of message you want to send.

Station identification
Identify, in English, your station by your FCC call sign, ship name, the state registration number or other official number at both the beginning and end of each message.

Prohibited communications

You MUST NOT transmit:

False distress or emergency messages.
Messages containing obscene, indecent or profane words or meaning.
General calls, signals or messages (messages not addressed to a particular station) on Channel 16, except in an emergency or if you are testing your radio.
When you are on land.

Voice Calling

To call another vessel or a shore installation such as a lock or bridge tender:

Make sure your radio is on.
Select Channel 16 and listen to make sure it is not being used.

NOTE
Channel 9 may be used by recreational vessels for general-purpose calling. This frequency should be used whenever possible to relieve congestion on Channel 16.

When the channel is quiet, press the Talk button and call the ship you wish to call. (Hold the microphone a few inches from your face and speak directly into it in a normal tone of voice — clearly and distinctly.) Say “[name of station being called] THIS IS [your vessel’s name or call sign].”
Once contact is made on the calling channel, you must switch to a proper working channel. See the channel listing on pages 14 through 15.

For Example
The vessel Corsair calling the vessel Vagabond:

Corsair: “Vagabond, this is Corsair.”
Vagabond: “Corsair, this is Vagabond. Reply 72 (or any proper working channel).”
Corsair: “72” or “Roger”

After communications are completed, each vessel must sign off with its call sign or vessel name and switch to Channel 16.

NOTE
For best sound quality at the station you are calling, hold the microphone on the front of the radio at least two inches [five cm] from your mouth and slightly off to one side. Speak in a normal tone of voice.

Radiotelephone Calls

Boaters may make and receive radiotelephone calls to and from any number on the telephone network by using the services of public coast stations. Calls can be made — for a fee — between your radio and telephones on land, sea and in the air. See pages 12 through 21 for the public correspondence (marine operator) channels. If you plan to use these services, consider registering with the operator of the public coast station that you plan to work through. Those services can provide you with detailed information and procedures to follow.

CAUTION
You may disclose privileged information during a radiotelephone call. Keep in mind that your transmission is NOT private, as it is on a regular telephone. Both sides of the conversation are being broadcast and can be heard by anyone who has a radio and tunes to the channel you are using.

Emergency messages and distress procedure
The ability to summon assistance in an emergency is the primary reason to have a VHF marine radio. The marine environment can be unforgiving, and what may initially be a minor problem can rapidly develop into a situation beyond your control. The Coast Guard monitors Channel 16, responds to all distress calls, and coordinates all search and rescue efforts. Depending on the availability of other capable vessels or commercial assistance operators in your vicinity, Coast Guard or Coast Guard Auxiliary craft may be dispatched. In any event, do communicate with the Coast Guard as soon as you experience difficulties and before your situation becomes an emergency. Use the emergency message procedures only after your situation has become grave or you are faced with a sudden danger threatening life or property and requiring immediate help. If you are merely out of gas, do not send an emergency message. Drop your anchor and call a friend or marina to bring the fuel you need or give you a tow.

Emergency Messages and Distress Procedure

Marine emergency signals
The three spoken international emergency signals are:

MAYDAY
The distress signal MAYDAY is used to indicate that a station is threatened by grave and imminent danger and requests immediate assistance.

PAN PAN
The urgency signal PAN PAN is used when the safety of the vessel or person is in jeopardy. (This signal is properly pronounced pahn-pahn.)

SECURITE
The safety signal SECURITE is used for messages about the safety of navigation or important weather warnings. (This signal is properly pronounced see-cure- it-tay.) When using an international emergency signal, the appropriate signal is to be spoken three times prior to the message.

If you hear a distress call
You must give any message beginning with one of these signals priority over any other messages. ALL stations MUST remain silent on Channel 16 for the duration of the emergency unless the message relates directly to the emergency. If you hear a distress message from a vessel, stand by your radio. If it is not answered, YOU should answer. If the distressed vessel is not nearby, wait a short time for others who may be closer to acknowledge. Even if you cannot render direct assistance, you may be in a position to relay the message.

Marine distress procedure Speak slowly — clearly — calmly.

Make sure your radio is on.
Select VHF Channel 16.
Press Talk button and say:
“MAYDAY — MAYDAY — MAYDAY.”
(Or “PAN PAN — PAN PAN — PAN PAN,” or “SECURITE — SECURITE — SECURITE.”)
Say:
“THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign].”
Say:
“MAYDAY (or “PAN PAN” or “SECURITE”)
[your vessel name or call sign].
Tell where you are:
(what navigational aids or landmarks are near).
State the nature of your distress.
State the kind of assistance needed.
Give number of persons aboard and conditions of any injured.
Estimate present seaworthiness of your vessel.
Briefly describe your vessel (length, type, color, hull).
Say:
“I WILL BE LISTENING ON CHANNEL 16.”
End message by saying:
“THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign] OVER.”
Release Talk button and listen. Someone should answer.
If not, repeat the call, beginning at item 3 above.

Keep the radio nearby. Even after your message has been received, the Coast Guard can find you more quickly if you can transmit a signal for a rescue boat to hone in on.

For Example
“Mayday — Mayday — Mayday”
“This is Corsair — Corsair — Corsair” [or “Illinois 1234 AB” three times] “Mayday Corsair (or Illinois 1234 AB)”
“Navy Pier bears 220 degrees magnetic — distance five miles”
“Struck submerged object and flooding — need pump and tow”
“Four adults, three children aboard — no one injured”
“Estimate we will remain afloat one half (1⁄2) hour”
“Corsair (or Illinois 1234 AB) is 26 foot sloop with blue hull and tan deck house”
“I will be listening on Channel 16”
“This is Corsair (or Illinois 1234 AB)”
“Over”
It is a good idea to write out a script of the message form and post it where you and others on your vessel can see it when an emergency message needs to be sent.

VHF Marine Channel Assignments

Three sets of VHF channels have been established for marine use in the U.S.A., Canada and the rest of the world (International). Most of the channels are the same for all three maps, but there are definite differences (see table on the following pages). Your radio has all three maps built into it and will operate correctly in whichever area you choose.
The following is a brief outline of the channel assignments in the U.S.A.

Channel Map.
Distress, safety and calling

Channel 16
Getting the attention of another station (calling) or in emergencies (distress and safety).

Calling
Channel 9
General purpose (non-emergency) calling by non-commercial vessels. Recreational boaters are urged to use this channel to reduce congestion on Channel 16.

Intership safety
Channel 6
Ship-to-ship safety messages and for search and rescue messages to Coast Guard ships and aircraft.

Coast guard liaison
Channel 22A
To talk to the Coast Guard (non-emergency) after making contact on Channel 16.

Non-Commercial
*Channels 68, 69, 71, 72, 78A, 79A*, 80A***
Working channels for small vessels. Messages must be about needs of the vessel, such as fishing reports, berthing and rendezvous. Use Channel 72 only for ship-to-ship messages.

Commercial
Channels 1A, 7A, 8, 9, 10, 11, 18A, 19A, 63A, 67, 72, 79A, 80A, 88A* Working channels for working ships only. Messages must be about business or needs of the ship. Use Channels 8, 67, 72 and 88A only for ship-to-ship messages.

Public correspondence (marine operator)
Channels 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 84, 84A, 85, 85A, 86, 86A, 87, 87A, 88* For calls to marine operators at public coast stations. You can make and receive telephone calls through these stations.

Port operations
Channels 1A, 5A, 12, 14, 20A, 63A, 65A, 66A, 73, 74, 77
Used for directing the movement of ships in or near ports, locks or waterways. Messages must be about operational handling, movement and safety of ships.

Navigational
Channels 13, 67
Channels are available to all vessels. Messages must be about navigation, including passing or meeting other vessels. These are also the main working channels for most locks and drawbridges. You must keep your messages short and power output at no more than one watt.

Maritime control
Channel 17
For talking to vessels and coast stations operated by state or local governments. Messages must be about regulation and control, boating activities or assistance.

Digital selective calling
Channel 70
This channel is set aside for distress, safety and general calling using only digital selective calling techniques. Voice communication is prohibited; your radio cannot transmit voice messages on this channel.

Weather
Channels Wx 1 thru 10
Receive-only channels for NOAA weather broadcasts. You cannot transmit on them.

NOTE

These channels are restricted to the listed uses in certain parts of the country or for certain types of users only. Consult FCC rules or a knowledgeable radio operator before using them.

$Cobra-MR-HH300-VP-Marine-VHF-Radio-$3$$

$Cobra-MR-HH300-VP-Marine-VHF-Radio-$4$$

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NOTE
Many of the plain numbered channels, such as 01, 02 and 03, transmit and receive on different frequencies. This is termed duplex operation. The rest of the plain numbered channels and all of the A channels, such as 01A, 03A and 04A, transmit and receive on a single frequency, which is termed simplex operation. Your radio automatically adjusts to these conditions. When in simplex operation, the A icon will appear on the LCD (see illustration on page A3).

NOTE
All channels are pre-programmed at the factory according to international regulations and those of the FCC (U.S.A.) and Industry Canada (Canada). They cannot be altered by the user nor can modes of operation be changed between simplex and duplex.

NOAA Weather Channels and Alert

Monitoring the weather will probably be a frequent use of your VHF radio. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides continuous ,around-the-clock broadcasts of the latest weather information. Taped weather messages run every four to six minutes and are revised every two or three hours, or as needed. The Coast Guard also announces weather and other safety warnings on Channel 16. Smart boaters keep an eye on safety and an ear to the VHF radio — and never let the weather catch them unaware.

NOAA emergency weather alert
In the event of a major storm or other weather condition requiring vessels at sea or on other bodies of water to be notified, NOAA broadcasts a 1050 Hz tone that receivers such as your CobraMarine™ VHF radio can detect and warn you of a weather alert condition. When the Weather Alert mode on your radio is on, this signal will produce a loud tone from the speaker in the radio and a flashing “ALRT” icon on the LCD to signal that a weather alert is being broadcast. To hear the warning itself, you will need to switch to the Weather Channel you selected.

Test
To test this system, NOAA broadcasts the 1050 Hz signal every Wednesday sometime between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. in each local time zone. Any receiver that can detect the weather alert tone may use this feature to verify that this feature is functioning properly.

Weather frequency

Included in This Package

You should find all of the following items in the package with your CobraMarine™ VHF radio:

$Cobra-MR-HH300-VP-Marine-VHF-Radio-$12$$

For connection to 12 volt source through cigarette lighter.

For connection to 120 volt wall outlet.

Antenna, Wrist Strap, and Belt Clip

Antenna installation
The flexible Antenna for the radio is shipped separately in the package and must be attached before you use the radio.

Align the base of the antenna with the socket in the top of the radio.
Screw it all the way into the socket. Be sure that the seal seats properly.

CAUTION
Operating the radio without the antenna in place may damage the unit. The radio is not waterproof until the antenna and battery pack are in place with their seals properly seated.

Wrist strap
Your radio comes with the Wrist Strap already attached. It can be easily removed if you choose not to use it.

Belt clip
Use the Belt Clip to carry your radio around with you.

Slide the clip onto your belt.
Insert the knob on the back of the radio into the channel on the back of the belt clip. You must have the radio upside-down, as shown, to insert or remove it from the belt clip.
Once the knob has been inserted all the way into the belt clip channel, the radio will swing freely while being securely retained.

Batteries and Charger

The radio is shipped with six rechargeable NiMH
(Nickel-Metal Hydride) Batteries in the package. When your rechargeable Batteries begin to discharge too quickly, it is time to install new ones. It will also operate with six high quality alkaline Batteries.

Installing the batteries

Open the battery compartment by turning the screw counter-clockwise one-quarter (1⁄4) turn.
Slide the empty battery tray out of the radio.
Align the batteries with the slots in the battery tray and insert them. Be sure to match the polarity markings on the batteries with those on the tray.
Slide the full battery tray into the radio. Be sure the seal is in its groove and not pinched between the tray and the body of the radio.
Turn the screw one-quarter (1⁄4) turn clockwise to lock the battery tray in place.

After the NiMH batteries are installed in the radio, they will need to be charged before they can be used.

CAUTION
The gasket on the base of the battery pack is essential for the radio to be waterproof. Be certain that it is not dislodged and that it fits properly into the radio.

NiMH batteries are toxic. Please dispose of the old ones properly. Some marine suppliers accept old batteries for recycling and many municipal waste disposal agencies have special provisions for battery disposal.

Initial charge
The Cobra® provided NiMH batteries can be Charged at home, in your automobile or in your boat using the appropriate 12 or 120 volt power cord with the charger.

Insert one of the power cords into the back of the drop-in charging cradle.
Insert the other end of the power cord into the appropriate 12 or 120 volt power source.
Insert the radio into the charger. The metal pads on the radio will contact mating pads in the charger to transfer the charging current.
Observe that the red light on the front of the charger glows to indicate that the radio is properly seated and the charger is operating.
Allow the batteries to charge for 12 to 15 hours.

WARNING
Only the rechargeable NiMH batteries can be recharged.

NOTE
If the drop-in charger is to be used on a boat, Cobra recommends you attach it to a shelf or bulkhead (using the screw holes provided) to prevent damage due to the boat rolling or pitching.

Maintaining the battery charge
As you use your radio, the battery power icon will show the battery power remaining. When the icon begins to flash, it is time to recharge or change the batteries.

You can monitor incoming calls while the radio is charging. However, you should remove it from the charger to transmit. Charging will be quicker if the radio is turned off.

CAUTION
Use only the drop-in charger provided by Cobra®. Do not use the charger with alkaline batteries; only the NiMH batteries are rechargeable. Spent alkaline batteries must be discarded and replaced. It is a good idea to keep a set of fresh, high quality alkaline batteries with your radio. Should the rechargeable batteries become discharged and no electrical power source be available, you can insert the alkaline batteries and continue to use your radio until you can return to using the rechargeable ones.

Getting Started

Refer to the foldout on the front cover of this manual to identify the various controls and indicators on your radio. Throughout this manual you will be instructed to press or to press and hold buttons on the radio. Press means a momentary press, then release; press and hold means to hold the button down. Whenever you press any button except the Talk button on your radio, a brief tone (beep) will sound to confirm the button press. With all button presses, the appropriate icon will appear on the LCD and the backlight will turn on. The backlight will stay on for five seconds after the button is released. At times you will hear two other sounds. Two beeps will sound to confirm your setting changes and three beeps will sound to notify you of an error.

Power on-off
The on-off Power/Volume knob on the top of the radio is held in the off position by a click stop.

To turn your radio on:

Turn the Squelch knob half-way counter-clockwise (when viewed from above).
Turn the on-off Power/Volume knob clockwise until you hear and feel a click.

When the radio is powered on, a brief tone will sound, the display backlight will turn on, and the display will show all icons for two seconds. All buttons will be inoperative during these two seconds. After two seconds, the radio will return to the settings in effect when it was last powered off, the LCD will show the appropriate icons, and all controls will be operative. The radio will then be in Standby mode.

To turn your radio off:

Turn the on-off Power/Volume knob all the way counter-clockwise until you hear and feel a click.

Volume

The on-off Power/Volume knob also controls the speaker Volume. The Volume adjustment applies only to what you hear from the speaker and does not affect the Volume of your outgoing messages, which is controlled by the circuitry of your radio.

To increase the volume:

Turn the on-off Power/Volume knob clockwise.

To decrease the volume:

Turn the on-off Power/Volume knob counter-clockwise.

Squelch
Squelch control filters weak signals and radio frequency noise so that you can more clearly hear the signals you want.

To squelch your radio:

With the Squelch knob turned fully counter-clockwise, turn the on-off Power/Volume knob clockwise until you hear a hissing (noise) sound.
Turn the Squelch knob clockwise until the hissing sound stops. Turning the Squelch knob further clockwise will filter weak and medium strength signals until only the strongest signal can get through at its highest setting.

To receive weaker signals, turn the Squelch knob counter-clockwise.
If the squelch is set so you can hear a continuous hissing sound, the scan and dual-watch functions will be blocked.

U.S.A./International/Canada channel maps
Three sets of VHF Channel Maps have been established for marine use in the U.S.A., Canada and the rest of the world (International). Most of the channels are the same for all three maps, but there are definite differences (see table on pages 14 through 21). Your radio has all three maps built into it and will operate correctly in whichever area you choose.

To set your radio for the area in which you will be using it:

From Standby mode, press and hold the Weather/UIC button for two seconds. The radio will shift one channel map and the Active Channel Map icon on the LCD will show the change on the LCD.

Repeat step one to shift to the next channel map(s).

Channels
Your radio will receive and transmit VHF signals on the Channel indicated on the LCD. You can change the Channel at any time using the Channel Up and Channel Down buttons.

To change channels:

Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button.

You are on Channel 88, pressing the Channel Up button will advance to Channel

If you are on Channel 1, pressing the Channel Down button will advance to Channel 88. You can hold the Channel Up or Channel Down button for fast advance. The beep sound will occur only at the first press of the button and not during fast advance. If the new channel selected is restricted to low power, the radio will automatically switch to Low Power mode and the Low Power icon will appear on the LCD. If the radio is in the Key Lock mode, the channel will not change and the three beep error signal will sound.

Transmit power output
Your radio can Transmit selectively at one or five watts of power. Cobra® suggests you maintain the low power setting for short-range communications, to conserve battery life and to avoid overpowering nearby stations with your signal. Use the high power setting for long-range communications or when you do not receive a response to a signal sent at one watt.

To toggle between the high and low power modes:

Press the High/Low Power button. The LCD will show which mode is in effect.

Some channels are restricted to use at a maximum of one watt. Your radio will automatically set the power to Low Power mode when you select those channels. While using the U.S.A. channel map, if, in an emergency, you need to increase the output power on Channel 13 and Channel 67 for your signal to be heard, you can override the Low Power mode by pressing and holding the High/Low Power button.

Backlight
The LCD will be illuminated by the Backlight as long as any key is pressed and will remain on for five seconds after the button is released.

If you need to turn on the backlight without disturbing any settings:

Press the Backlight/Key Lock button. The backlight will remain on for 10 seconds.

If the backlight is on, a press of the Backlight/Key Lock button will turn it off.

Key Lock

To prevent accidental changes to your settings, you can Lock:

Channel Up Button
Channel Down Button
Weather/UIC Button
16/9 Button
High/Low Button
Dual-Watch/Scan Button

To lock or unlock the buttons:

Press and hold the Backlight/Key Lock button for three seconds. The key icon will appear or disappear in the LCD.

When key lock is on, pressing any of the listed buttons on the front of the radio will result in a three beep error message. Both the Backlight/Key Lock button and the Talk button are active — you can receive or transmit a message with key lock on, but you cannot change the channel.

Standby/Receive and Transmit

Standby and receive
Standby mode is the usual mode for the radio whenever it is turned on. From this mode, you can change your settings using the buttons on the front of the radio and switch to Transmit mode using the Talk button. Signals will be received on the selected channel(s) and alerts broadcast by the Coast Guard and NOAA will activate the corresponding routines in your radio.

NOTE
Coast Guard alerts are broadcast on Channel 16 and you need to have weather alert turned on to receive NOAA alerts.
While in Standby mode, you will receive any messages sent on the channel to which you are tuned.

Transmit
Transmit mode gives you the ability to interact with safety services, other vessels and shore stations. When you use this capability, be sure to follow the procedures and to observe the courtesies that govern its use so everyone benefits. (The tables on pages 14 through 21 will help you select the proper channels.)

To transmit a message:

Check to see that your radio is set to a proper channel for the type of message you plan to send.
Toggle to the low power setting.
With the microphone about two inches [five cm] from your mouth press and hold the Talk button and speak into the microphone. The Transmit icon will appear on the LCD.
Release the Talk button when you are finished speaking. Your radio can only operate in either the Transmit mode or the Receive mode at any given time. You will not hear the response to your message unless the Talk button is released.

If the Battery Power icon begins blinking on the LCD when the Talk button is depressed, the radio will NOT transmit and the Transmit icon will blink. If the Talk button is held down for five minutes, the radio will automatically cease transmitting to prevent unwanted signal generation and battery drain. As soon as the Talk button is released, it can be pressed again to resume transmission.

Weather Radio and Alert

NOAA all hazards/weather radio and alert
Weather radio
NOAA broadcasts Weather information as described in the NOAA weather channels section on page 22 of this manual. You can listen to one or two of these 10 channels at any time (only in the Receive mode).

NOTE
Only one or two of the weather channels will be operating in any given location. You will need to select the channel with the strongest signal in your location.

To listen to the weather channels:

From Standby mode, press the Weather/UIC button. The radio will enter the Weather mode and the icon will show on the LCD.
Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to change the weather channels — hold the button for fast advance.

To exit the Weather mode and return to Standby mode, press the Weather/UIC button again.

Weather alert
NOAA also broadcasts special Weather Alerts to warn of severe weather. These are preceded by a special signal that your radio can detect. However, you must set your radio to the weather channel that broadcasts a strong signal in the area where you are, and you must activate the Weather Alert mode on your radio to benefit from this signal.

To activate weather alert:

Enter the Weather mode and select a station with a strong signal as described above.
Press and hold the Weather/UIC button for two seconds to turn the Weather Alert mode on or off.

The Alert icon on the LCD will turn on or off.
To exit the Weather mode and return to Standby mode, press the Weather/UIC button again.

Advanced Operation

Weather alert signal
When NOAA broadcasts a Weather Alert Signal and your radio is in the Weather Alert mode, you will hear a continuous audible tone and the Alert icon will flash on the LCD. The alert indicators will sound and flash regardless of what channel you are operating on as soon as a NOAA alert signal is received.

When you hear the alert:

Press any key to turn off the alert indicators.
Switch to the weather channel you selected to hear the NOAA emergency broadcast.

Advanced operation
Channel 16/9
This function gives you quick access to the calling Channels 16 and Channels 9 from any operational mode.

To switch to Channel 16 or Channel 9:

Press the Channel 16/9 button to change to Channel 16.
Press the Channel 16/9 button again to change to Channel 9.

To exit the Channel 16/9 mode and return to whatever status existed before entering this mode, press the Channel 16/9 button a third time. While at Channel 16 or 9 in the Channel 16/9 mode, you can also press the Channel Up and Channel Down buttons to change channels. In that event, another press of the Channel 16/9 button will switch your radio to Channel 16 and the sequence will start over at step 1. If you press this button when Key Lock mode is on, you will get a three beep error message and your radio will not change mode.

Dual-Watch
Dual-Watch gives you one button access to scan the two channels of most importance to you. Channel 16 will always be one of the scanned channels. You can select the other of them.

NOTE
The radio must be squelched for dual-watch to function.
See page 29 for squelch procedure.

To select the second channel for scanning and enter Dual-Watch mode:

In Standby mode, use the Channel Up or Channel Down button to change to the channel you want to scan along with Channel 16.
From Standby mode, press and release the Dual-Watch/Scan button.

The Dual-Watch icon will appear on the LCD and the radio will scan between Channel 16 and the channel you selected. A signal on either of the channels will stop the scan for 10 seconds to allow you to listen to the traffic on the channel.

To exit Dual-Watch mode:

Press and release the Dual-Watch/Scan button.
The icon will disappear from the LCD and the unit will return to Standby mode status.

During Dual-Watch (while receiving an incoming transmission), you can choose from the following:

a. Press the Talk button to remain on that dual-watch location and return to Standby mode.
b. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to resume scanning dual-watch locations.

If you do not press any buttons within 10 seconds, your radio will automatically resume scanning dual-watch locations.

During Dual-Watch (while not receiving a transmission), you can choose from the following:

a. Press the Talk button to communicate on the last dual-watch location scanned and return to Standby mode.
b. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to change scan direction.

Channel Scan
During Channel Scan, the radio will rapidly switch from channel to channel through all the channels. Whenever any activity is detected, the radio will stop the scan for 10 seconds to allow you to listen briefly on that channel. It will then continue to scan unless you switch out of the Scan mode.

NOTE
The radio must be squelched for scan to function.
See page 29 for squelch procedure.

To enter channel scan mode:

From Standby mode, press and hold the Dual-Watch/ Scan button for two seconds.

The radio will immediately begin to scan the entire channel map selected in the active channel map. The Scan icon will show on the LCD.

To exit scan mode:

From Scan mode, press and hold the Dual-Watch/Scan button for two seconds.

The radio will exit Scan mode and return to Standby mode.

During channel scan (while receiving an incoming transmission), you can choose from the following:

a. Press the Talk button to remain on that channel and end scanning. This will return the radio to Standby mode.
b. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to resume scanning channels.

If you do not press any buttons within 10 seconds, your radio will automatically resume scanning channels.

During channel scan (while not receiving a transmission), you can choose from the following:

a. Press the Talk button to communicate on the last memory location scanned and return to Standby mode.
b. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button to change scan direction.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Maintenance
Very little maintenance is required to keep your CobraMarine™ VHF radio in good operating condition.

Keep the radio and charger clean by wiping with a soft cloth and mild detergent. Do not use solvents or harsh or abrasive cleaners, which could damage the case or scratch the LCD screen.
If the radio is exposed to salt water, wipe with a soft, moist cloth at least once a day to prevent build-up of salt deposits, which could interfere with button operation.
If the radio will be stored for a long period, such as over the winter, remove the batteries from the battery tray and store them in a separate package. This is especially so if you are using alkaline batteries.

Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause(s)	Solution(s)
No display on LCD when radio is turned on	Batteries are exhausted Batteries
not installed properly	Replace batteries Remove batteries and reinstall

according to
polarity markings
Will transmit at one watt, but not at five watts| Batteries are low Selected channel is limited to one watt| Replace batteries Switch to another channel
Will not transmit| Selected channel is limited to receive only| Switch to another channel
No sound from speaker| Volume level is too low or squelch level is too deep| Re-adjust volume and squelch
No response to button press| Key Lock is on| Press Backlight/ Key Lock button
No answer to calls| Out of range of other station Signal is blocked by terrain| Switch to five watts or move closer Move until you have a “line-of- sight” to the other station

Specifications

Warranty

Limited 3-Year warranty
For products purchased in the U.S.A.
Cobra® Electronics Corporation warrants that its CobraMarine™ VHF radio, and the component parts thereof, will be free of defects in workmanship and materials for a period of three years from the date of first consumer purchase. This warranty may be enforced by the first consumer purchaser, provided that the product is utilized within the U.S.A. Cobra® will, without charge, repair or replace, at its option, defective radios, products or component parts upon delivery to the Cobra® Factory Service department, accompanied by proof of the date of first consumer purchase, such as a duplicated copy of a sales receipt. You must pay any initial shipping charges required to ship the product for warranty service, but the return charges will be at Cobra®’s expense, if the product is repaired or replaced under warranty. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state.

Exclusions: This limited warranty does not apply:

To any product damaged by accident;
In the event of misuse or abuse of the product or as a result of unauthorized alterations or repairs;
If the serial number has been altered, defaced or removed;
If the owner of the product resides outside the U.S.A.

All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose are limited in duration to the length of this warranty. Cobra® shall not be liable for any incidental, consequential or other damages; including, without limitation, damages resulting from loss of use or cost of installation. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.

For products purchased outside the U.S.A.
Please contact your local dealer for warranty information.

Product Service

If you have any questions about operation or installing your new CobraMarine™ VHF product, or if you are missing parts… Please call Cobra® first! DO NOT RETURN THIS PRODUCT TO THE STORE! See customer assistance on page A1. If your product should require factory service, please call Cobra® first before sending your radio. This will ensure the fastest turn-around time on your repair. You may be asked to send your radio to the Cobra® factory. It will be necessary to furnish the following to have the product serviced and returned:

For warranty repair include some form of proof-of-purchase, such as a mechanical reproduction or carbon of a sales receipt. If you send the original receipt, it cannot be returned.
Send the entire product.
Enclose a description of what is happening with the radio. Include a typed or clearly printed name and address of where the radio is to be returned.
Pack radio securely to prevent damage in transit. If possible, use the original packing material.
Ship prepaid and insured by way of a traceable carrier such as United Parcel Service (UPS) or Priority Mail to avoid loss in transit to: Cobra® Factory Service, Cobra® Electronics Corporation, 6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago, Illinois 60707 U.S.A.
If the radio is in warranty, upon receipt of your radio, it will either be repaired or exchanged depending on the model. Please allow approximately three to four weeks before contacting Cobra® for status. If the radio is out of warranty, a letter will automatically be sent informing you of the repair charge or replacement charge.

If you have any questions, please call 773-889-3087 for assistance.

Order Form and Optional Accessories
Order form
$Cobra-MR-HH300-VP-Marine-VHF-Radio-$68$$

Amount Shipping/Handling
$10.00 or less . . . . . $3.00
$10.01-$25.00 . . . . . $5.50
$25.01-$50.00 . . . . . $7.50
$50.01-$90.00 . . . . $10.50
$90.01-$130.00 . . . $13.50
$130.01-$200.00 . . $16.50
$200.01 plus . . . . . 10% of
purchase
For AK, HI and PR add additional $26.95 for FedEx Next Day or $10.95 for FedEx 2nd Day. Excludes weekend and holiday shipments.
Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery in the U.S. Prices subject to change without notice.
The Cobra® line of quality products includes: CB Radios microTALK® Radios Radar/Laser Detectors Safety Alert® Traffic Warning Systems Accessories GPS (Global Positioning System) HighGear® Accessories VHF Marine Radios Power Inverters

$Cobra-MR-HH300-VP-Marine-VHF-Radio-$67$$

Optional accessories
You can find quality Cobra® products and accessories at your local Cobra® dealer, or in the U.S.A., you can order directly from Cobra®.

Ordering from U.S.A.
Call 773-889-3087 for pricing or visit www.cobra.com.
For credit card orders, complete and return this order form to fax number 773-622-2269. Or call 773-889-3087 (Press 1 from the main menu) 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday.

Make check or money order payable to:
Cobra® Electronics, Attn: Accessories Dept.
6500 West Cortland Street, Chicago, IL 60707 USA
To order online, please visit our website: www.cobra.com