Cobra HH 38 WX ST 4 Watt 40 Channel CB Radio Instruction Manual

Cobra HH 38 WX ST 4 Watt 40 Channel CB Radio

Product Information

Specifications

• Product Name: Cobra HH 38 WX ST
• Type: Handheld CB Radio
• Operating Band: Citizens Band (CB)
• Channels: CB/WX (Citizens Band/Weather)
• Power Source: 12 Volt Cigarette Lighter Plug or DC 13.8V
• Antenna: High Efficiency Antenna (Included)
• Additional Accessories: Removable Belt Clip, Wrist Strap

FAQ

• Q: Are advertising transmissions allowed on CB channels?
  • A: No, CB channels are intended for one-to-one communications, and broadcasting advertisements is not permitted.
• Q: Can I replace parts of the Cobra HH 38 WX ST with non-recommended ones?
  • A: It is not recommended to replace parts with those not recommended by Cobra, as it may violate FCC regulations and affect the performance of the device.
• Q: Where can I find more information and support for the Cobra HH 38 WX ST?
  • A: For more information, support, and frequently asked questions, visit the Cobra website at www.cobra.com. You can also contact Cobra Customer Service at 773.889.3087.

What In The box

What’s Included with Your HH 38 WX ST

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

The CB Story

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

FCC STATEMENT

FCC Regulations

FCC regulations permit only “transmissions” (one party to another) rather than “broadcasts” (to a wide audience).Thus, advertising is notallowed on CB Channels because that is “broadcasting.”

FCC Warnings

All transmitter adjustments other than those supplied by the manufacturer as front panel operating controls,must be made by, or under the supervision of, the holder of an FCC-issued general Radio-Telephone Operator’s License.

Replacement or substitution of transistors, regular diodes or other parts of a unique nature, with parts other than those recommended by Cobra, may cause violation of the technical regulations of Part 95 of the FCC Rules, or violation of Type Acceptance requirements of Part 2 of the Rules. You should read and understand Part 95 (included with this unit) of the FCC Rules and Regulations, before operating your Cobra radio, even though the FCC no longer requires you to obtain an operator’s license.

Controls and Indicators

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

Introduction

Our Thanks to You

Thank you for purchasing the Cobra HH 38 WX ST handheld CB. Properly used, this Cobra product will give you many years of reliable service. SoundTracker® “Cuts noise coming in…strengthens signals going out.” This Patent pending technology dramatically improves transmission and reception of CB signals.

The revolutionary SoundTracker®System reconfigures the transmission signal which allows it to be transferred more efficiently through cluttered airwaves. At the same time, it significantly reduces the amount of static on all incoming CB signals. The end result is a cleaner, clearer sounding reception of signals and a more powerful transmission which dramatically improves CB communications.

Customer Support

Should you encounter any problems with the product or not understand its many features, please refer to this owner’s manual. If, after referring to the manual, you still need help, call Cobra Customer Service at 773.889.3087.

Cobra Customer Service

• Live operators are available M-F 8:00 am – 6:00 pm CST at: 773.889.3087
• Automated Technical Assistance available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. E-mail questions to: productinfo@cobra.com
• Cobra on the World Wide Web: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) can be found on-line at: www.cobra.com

How to Use Your Cobra HH 38 WX ST

Features of This Product

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

Operation

Attach Antenna

Note

• To increase range as a portable, use CA41 telescopic loaded long range antenna.

Attach Antenna

1. Insert.
2. Turn clockwise. 1⁄4 turn.

Install Batteries

1. Remove battery chamber cover. Press down on arrow and slide.
2. Install batteries by polarity markings.
3. Replace cover.

NiCD rechargeable batteries should be charged a minimum of 12 hours with a CA- 45C charger.

Attach Belt Clip

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

Battery Installation

Note

• Ignoring polarity markings (+/-) can cause damage to both the unit and the batteries.
• The HH 38 WX ST requires 9 “AA”alkaline or NiCD batteries (not included with the unit).
• When batteries are low or need charging the BATTERY icon will flash on the LCD display.
• Replace alkaline batteries or recharge NiCD batteries.
• NiCD rechargeable batteries should be charged a minimum of 12 hours with a CA-45C charger.
• NiCD rechargeables should have a rating of 1.2 vdc,750 Mah.

Attach Belt Clip

Note

• Clip slides up to attach and slides down to remove.

Turning On

Note

• When you turn on the HH 38 WX ST , a series of tones will be heard and the icons will briefly appear on the LCD display.
• LCD lights on for 5 seconds.

Turning On

• Rotate ON – OFF Volume Control clockwise.
• Fully counterclockwise opens the “gate” and all signals enter.

Setting Squelch

Gate closed

Setting Squelch

Squelch is the “control gate” for incoming signals.

1. Turn volume up louder than normal.
2. Fully clockwise closes the “gate”, allowing no incoming signals.
3. To achieve the Desired Squelch Setting (DSS), turn the Squelch control counterclockwise until you hear noise. Now turn the control clockwise just until the noise stops. This is the DSS setting.

Gate open

Gate set to Desired Squelch Setting (DSS)

Select Channel

Note

• For quick advance, push and hold arrow key(s).
• When switching from one channel to another, squelch will need to be reset. See Setting Squelch.

Select Channel

1. Turn power ON.
2. For higher channel, push UP arrow key.
3. For lower Channel, push DOWN arrow key.

LCD Display

LCD Display

• All needed information is displayed on LCD display panel.

Transmit/Receive

Stop

• Antenna must be installed before TX

Note

• While PTT button is depressed you cannot receive transmissions.
• During transmit, your outgoing transmission power is measured in watts and displayed on the bar graph.

Transmit / Receive

1. To transmit, push and hold PTT button.
2. The TRANSMISSION POWER METER will be displayed when transmitting.
3. Hold mic about 2 inches from mouth. Speak in a normal voice.
4. Release PTT button to receive incoming transmissions.

The INCOMING SIGNAL STRENGTH METER will be displayed when a signal is received.

Note

• Your HH38 WX ST is always ready to receive incoming signals when the PTT button is released.
• When you are receiving an incoming signal, the strength of that signal will be displayed on the bar graph.

One Touch for Channel 9 and Channel 19

Note

• Pressing CHANNEL UP/DOWN key will exit you from this mode.

One Touch For Channel 9 and Channel 19

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

1. Push CH 9/19 once for channel 9.
2. Push CH 9/19 twice for Channel 19.
3. To return to original channel, push CH 9/19 a third time.

All Channel Scan

Note

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

All Channel Scan

To scan all 40 channels:

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

Dual Watch

Note

• To set Desired Squelch Setting (DSS) see Setting Squelch.
• At a later time you can recall your preset DW channels by pushing and releasing the FUNCTION key and quickly pushing and releasing the DW key.

Dual Watch

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

1. Set Desired Squelch Setting (DSS).
2. Select Channel 11 with CHANNEL UP/ DOWN key.
3. Push and release FUNCTION key.
   • FUNC. FUNCTION icon will be displayed.
4. Push and hold key until “beep” is heard.
   • The DW icon will flash and the FUNC. FUNCTION icon will disappear.
5. Select Channel 17 with CHANNEL UP/DOWN key.
6. Push key until “beep” is heard.
   • The DW icon will stay on.
7. The HH 38 WX ST display will switch between the selected channels.
8. To stop dual watch, push CHANNEL UP/ DOWN key on the HH 38 WX ST.

Note

• When a transmission is received the HH 38 WX ST will stop monitoring. 10 seconds after the DW stops, monitoring will continue between the two channels.

Weather Channels

Note

• The 10 National Weather Channels include 7 NOAA and 3 Canadian channels.
• These channels provide full coverage to keep you informed of weather conditions, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• For a list of weather frequencies see specifications in the Frequency Ranges section.
• Your HH 38 WX ST has a special auto squelch circuit for weather transmission which disables your squelch control.

Weather Channels

10 National Weather Channels provide weather transmission reception.

1. Push and release the CB/WX key and the current weather channel will appear.
2. To change weather channels push the CHANNEL UP/DOWN arrow keys.
   • At times, different channels can be received. Select the one with the clearest audio quality.
3. To return to normal CB operation, push and release the CB/WX key again.

The WX icon will disappear.

Note

• An agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce, NOAA operates 380 stations which reach about 90% of the U.S. population. If you cannot receive a weather station, you may not have one in your area.
• If you wish to receive a listing of NOAA Weather Radio Transmitter locations, contact your nearest National Weather Service Office, or write to: National Weather Service (Attn: W/OM11),NOAA Silver Spring, MD 20910

Power Saver (HI/LOW)

Note

• The low power setting cuts the transmitting range in half, but the receiving range is not affected.

Power Saver (HI/LOW)

Reduces transmit power output to 1 watt to extend battery life.

1. Push and release the FUNCTION key.
   • FUNC. FUNCTION icon will be displayed.
2. Push and release the key.
   • The PWR Save icon will appear and the FUNC. FUNCTION icon will disappear.
3. To exit Power Saver (HI/LOW) mode:
   • Push and release FUNCTION key.
   • FUNC. FUNCTION icon will be displayed.
4. Push and release the key.
5. FUNCTION and PWR Save icon will disappear

Note

• Battery life is increased approximately 50% while in Battery Power Save Mode is activated.
• This reduces transmit power output to 1 watt.

Battery Capacity

Battery Capacity Level

Note

• Battery life is approximately 20 hours under normal use conditions.

Battery Capacity Level

• To monitor the remaining power level of the HH 38 WX ST battery: check battery icon bands.
• BATTERY icon will flash if batteries are low.
• Replace batteries as soon as possible.

The SoundTracker® System

While previous systems only “blanket out” or limit noise in higher sound frequencies, the revolutionary new SoundTracker® System actually reduces noise while leaving the signal intact in the reception mode. In the transmission mode, it actually strengthens the signal, providing you with a significant reduction in noise on reception and transmission.

Sound clarity is measured by the ratio of the signal level to the noise level. The higher the signal-to-noise ratio, the better the sound.

How SoundTracker® Works

On Reception – “Cuts noise coming in”

With a normal CB, distant signals fall below the squelch level and are unintelligible.With a SoundTracker® CB. the noise level is cut up to 90%, which increases the signal-to-noise ratio and dramatically improves signal clarity.This also allows you to significantly reduce the squelch level, which greatly expands your listening range.

On Transmission – “Strengthens signals going out”

• A SoundTracker® CB strengthens the transmit signal by more effectively using the available RF power output of the CB.
• The result is improved transmission signal clarity and an expanded transmission range.

Note

• SoundTracker® gives you clearer, cleaner reception to improve CB communications while on the air.

Activating SoundTracker®

Note

• This engages the SoundTracker® system and reduces the noise level.

Activating SoundTracker®

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

Testing SoundTracker®

1. Select any unused channel on your CB.
2. Fully counterclockwise opens the “gate” and all signals enter. Turn the knob until it stops.
3. Deactivate soundtrack mode by pressing key if the icon is displayed
4. Turn the volume up louder than your normal listening level.
5. Push and release the ST key.
   • The SOUNDTRACKER icon will appear.
   • *Notice the significant reduction in noise.
6. To disengage SoundTracker® push and release ST key again.
7. icon will disappear.

Lighted Display

1. To illuminate display, push and release light key. Light will remain on for 10 seconds.

Lock Key

Note

• PTT , LIGHT,VOLUME, SQUELCH and LOCK functions are still operational while the LOCK function is activated.

Lock Key

Purpose is to lock most functions to avoid accidental actuation.

1. To lock, push and hold the LOCK key for two seconds. The LOCK icon will appear.
   • To unlock, push and hold LOCK key for 2 seconds again.

In Vehicle Use

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

Note

• Due to the characteristics of CB transmissions, it is necessary to use an external car roof/truck magnet mounted antenna (item # ATW-400) and a BNC adapter (item # CA-43)to receive optimal performance while in your vehicle. See Accessories section.
• DC/Power Cord is provided.
• To increase range as a portable, use CA41 telescopic loaded long range antenna.

How Your CB Can Serve You

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

A Few Rules You Should Know

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

Weather Channel Messages

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

Note

If you wish to receive a listing of NOAA Weather Radio Transmitter locations, contact your nearest National Weather Service Office, or write to:

• National Weather Service (Attn: W/OM11),NOAA Silver Spring, MD 20910
• For a list of weather frequencies see specifications in the Frequency Ranges section.

Channel 9 Emergency Messages

Note

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

1. Set to channel 9 for emergencies

   • Be sure antenna is properly connected.

2. CB Distress Data
   When transmitting an emergency, you should request a “REACT BASE” and provide the CB distress data (called CLIP):

3. Call Sign Identify yourself.

4. Location Be exact.

5. Injuries Number.Type.Trapped?

6. Problem Give details and help needed.

Transmit CLIP repeatedly so any monitor can assist.

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

CB 10-Codes

Citizen Bands have adopted the “10-CODES” for standard questions and answers. These codes provide quick and easy communication, especially in noisy areas. Following are some of the more common codes and meanings:

Specifications

HH38 WX ST Specifications

Frequency Ranges

The COBRA HH 38 WX ST transceiver represents one of the most advanced AM two- way radios used as a Class D station in the Citizens Radio Service.This unit features advanced Phase Lock Loop (PLL) circuitry providing complete coverage of all 40 CB channels and 10 weather channels as shown below.

Limited Warranty

Limited Two Year Warranty

COBRA ELECTRONICS CORPORATION warrants that its COBRA CB Radios, and the component parts thereof, will be free of defects in workmanship and materials for period of two (2) 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 CB 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.

Exclusions: This limited warranty does not apply;

1. to any product damaged by accident;
2. in the event of misuse or abuse of the product or as a result of unauthorized alterations or repairs;
3. if the serial number has been altered, defaced or removed;
4. 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.

Optional Accessories

You Can Find These Fine Accessories At Your Local Cobra CB Dealer

• If you wish, you can order directly from Cobra.
• For pricing information Call 773.889.3087 or visit www.cobra.com.

Order by phone

• Call 773.889.3087
• (Press 1 from the main menu)
• 8 a.m.-6 p.m. M-F CST.

Order by mail or fax

• Please fill out order form on next page, and mail/fax directly to Cobra.

Accessory Order Form

• Call 773.889.3087 for pricing or visit: www.cobra.com
• For credit card orders fill out order form and fax to: 773.622.2269 or call 773.889.3087 (Press 1 from the main menu) 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, M-F, CST.
• Make check or money order (no stamps) payable to: Cobra Accessories Dept. 6500 West Cortland St.Chicago, IL 60707

Shipping & Handling

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

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

Please print clearly

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

If You Think You Need Service

For technical assistance, please call our Automated Help Desk which can assist you by answering the most frequently asked questions about Cobra products.

• 773-889-3087
• 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• A Consumer Service Representative can be reached through this same number 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday, CST.
• Technical assistance is also available on-line in the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section at www.cobra.com or by e-mail to productinfo@cobra.com

If you think you need service call 773.889.3087

“If your product should require factory service please call Cobra first before sending your unit in.
This will ensure the fastest turn-around time on your repair.”
You may be asked to send your unit to the Cobra factory. It will be necessary to furnish the following in order to have the product serviced and returned.

1. For Warranty Repair include some form of proof-of-purchase, such as a mechanical reproduction or carbon or a sales receipt. If you send the original receipt it cannot be returned.
2. Send the entire product.
3. Enclose a description of what is happening with the unit. Include a typed or clearly print name and address of where the unit is to be returned.
4. Pack unit securely to prevent damage in transit. If possible, use the original packing material.
5. Ship prepaid and insured by way of a traceable carrier such as United Parcel Service (UPS) or First Class Mail: to avoid loss in transit to: Cobra Factory Service, Cobra Electronics Corporation, 6500 W. Cortland St., Chicago, IL 60707.
6. If the unit is in warranty, upon receipt of your unit it will either be repaired or exchanged depending on the model. Please allow approximately 3 to 4 weeks before contacting us for status. If the unit 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.

© 2002 Cobra Electronics Corporation
Printed in Thailand

Cobra Electronics Corporation

6500 West Cortland Street
Chicago, IL 60707 USA

References

• Communication Radios & Automotive Electronics | Cobra.com
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