Cobra 19 MINI AM Ultra Compact Recreational CB Radio Owner’s Manual

Cobra 19 MINI AM Ultra Compact Recreational CB Radio

Product Information

Specifications

• Model : Cobra 19 MINI AM/FM
• Type : Ultra Compact Recreational CB Radio
• Power Output: 4W
• Channels : 40
• Power Source: 12V Adapter

Product Features

• TX Indicator Icon LCD Channel Display
• AM/FM CH 9/19
• Power On-Off, Volume, and Channel Control
• Microphone Jack
• S/RF Power Meter
• Menu/Lock Button Squelch/Auto Squelch Control
• Jack Antenna
• External Speaker Jack
• 12 Power Connection with Connector
• 48 Hardwire 12V Power Adapter with Connector

FCC Regulations
FCC Compliance: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by Cobra Electronics could void your authority to operate the equipment. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules.

Product Usage Instructions

Installation and Start-Up

1. Select a location to mount the CB using the instructions from the Mounting and Hardwire Installation section of this manual (page 4).
2. Connect the 12V CLA cord to the CB. Ensure the connection is secure.

Contacting Customer Assistance
If you encounter any issues or need further assistance with the product features, menu, or installation, refer to the owner’s manual. For additional help, contact customer assistance by calling 800-543-1608 or visiting www.cobra.com.

Thank you for purchasing the Cobra 19 MINI AM/FM CB. Properly used, this CB radio will give you many years of reliable service.

Citizens Band Radio History
Invented by Al Gross in 1945, the CB radio originally served as a method of communication for troops during World War II. After the war, Gross worked to make two-way radios a way of communication for personal use and the CB radio service was established by law in the U.S. in 1949. It wasn’t until the 1970s that technology advanced and the CB market caught on as a method of communication between drivers to report police speed traps and road hazards. The Citizens Band Radio Service consists of 40 channel frequencies that are mostly 10 kHz apart. Transmitter power is limited to 4 watts in the US, and range can vary depending on the terrain and quality of the product. Currently, the Citizens Band service does not require a license for operation, regardless of age, as long as the rules of operation established by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) are followed.

Petition For FCC Part 65 Rule Changes
In 2016, Cobra petitioned the FCC to revise Part 95 rules to allow CB radios to use frequency modulation (FM). Cobra contended that FM offers improved speech quality and lower noise interference, which improves the standard of two-way radios and is a benefit to the customer. Through the direct efforts of Cobra Electronics and the enthusiastic support from loyal customers and the distribution network, the FCC granted the request and in 2021, Part 95 officially was updated to include FM as an option for two-way radio use. In addition, AM/FM in CB radios allow backwards compatibility to communicate with older AM-only CB radios. Today, thanks to Cobra Electronics’ petitions to improve the quality of the Citizens Band Radio Service, users can enjoy the benefits of CB radio communication in a range of industries.

Customer Assistance
Should you encounter any problems with this product, not understand its features, menu or installation, please refer to the this owner’s manual. If you require further assistance, after reading this manual, we are here to help:

Service, Orders & Product Questions
For service, orders, product questions and service hours please call 800-543-1608 or go to www.cobra.com.

For Assistance Outside the U.S.A.
Contact Your Local Dealer

Product Features

Product Features and FCC Regulations

FCC Regulations: FCC Compliance
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by Cobra Electronics could void your authority to operate the equipment.

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.

Included in the Package

Installation and Start-Up

Powering the 19 MINI AM/FM
There are three power options to use and operate the 19 MINI AM/FM CB:

1. From the 12V accessory port in the vehicle,
2. Hardwired directly to the battery, or
3. Hardwired to the fuse box.

Cobra includes a 12V power adapter with the 19 MINI AM/FM CB that allows you to power up quickly and conveniently. In addition, the 12V power accessory is a modular design to easily connect and disconnect from the CB. This also allows you to change power from the 12V accessory option to hardwired power as needed. This design also allows you to use your 19 MINI AM/FM CB in multiple vehicles.

Powering Your 19 MINI AM/FM with the 12V Power Adapter:

1. Select a location to mount the CB using the instructions form the “Mounting and Hardwire Installation” section of this manual (page 4).
2. Connect the 12V CLA cord to the CB. Make sure the connection is secure (shown left).
3. Plug the 12V power adapter into the vehicle’s 12V accessory port (shown left) the power ON the 19 MINI AM/FM.

Powering Your 19 MINI AM/FM with the Direct-to-Battery Hardwire Kit:

• If the 12V power adapter is not preferred to power the CB, or if a 12V port is not not an option in the vehicle, the 19 MINI AM/FM can be installed direct-to-battery or to the fuse with the hardwire kit included with the product.
• The hardwire kit is a 48″ DC power cord and utilizes the same connector as the 12V adapter accessory to easily connect and disconnect from the 19 MINI AM/FM.
• The hardwire kit provides a 5′ connection from the CB directly to the battery or fuse box, with the same easy-connect modular design.

WARNING : Do not operate the CB without an antenna. This may damage the transmitter.

Getting Started – Overview of Main Connectors

• External Speaker
  The speaker jack on the rear panel is used for an External Speaker. The external speaker should have an 8-Ohm impedance and be rated to handle at least 4 watts. When the external speaker is plugged in, the internal speaker is automatically disconnected.
  NOTE : Cobra external speakers are rated at 15 watts.
  WARNING : The 19 MINI AM/FM external speaker output is a Bridge Tied Load (BTL) design. Do not short the speaker wires to ground as it may damage the speaker amplifier.

• Power
  Power is supplied to the CB from the main cable located at the back of the radio. This cable is permanently attached to the radio and terminates in a connector for a quick installation of the included 12V vehicle power adapter or to connect to the hardwire kit provided.

• Fuse
  The DC power wires and the 12V vehicle adapter includes a fuse (in the tip) of the following type: F2AL 125V – UL rated.

• Microphone Connector
  Allows for convenient removal of the microphone plug when storage is required. The microphone MUST be connected to the unit at all times, when in use, for proper operation.

Mounting and Hardwire Installation
Select a location for the CB radio and microphone bracket that is convenient for operation. In automobiles, the CB is usually mounted underneath the dash panel, with the microphone bracket beside it. Avoid areas near airbags and mount to an area that is secure enough to hold it in place. One (1) universal mounting bracket is supplied along with one (1) microphone bracket, four (4) self-tapping screws and star washers. The CB is held in the universal mounting bracket by two (2) thumb screws, permitting adjustment to the most convenient angle.

Mount and Connect Your Transceiver:

1. Hold the radio with mounting bracket in the exact location desired. Remove the radio and use the mounting bracket as a template to mark the location for the mounting screws.

2. Drill necessary holes and secure the mounting bracket in location.

3. Connect the antenna cable plug to the receptacle on the back the unit.

4. Connect the red lead of the DC power cord to an accessory 12 volt fuse.

5. Connect the negative or black lead to the the frame of the vehicle.
   NOTE : The battery is bonded to the vehicle frame most commonly called the “chassis.” Sometimes this requires removing paint to get to a location with good electrical contact. Installation requirements can vary depending on the vehicle.

6. Connect the CB and hardwire connectors.

7. Mount the microphone bracket in a convenient location that does not interfere with vehicle operation using the two supplied screws.

8. Connect the microphone plug to the RJ-45 front panel jack.

9. Power the CB ON to use.

WARNING : Do not operate the CB without an antenna. This may damage the transmitter.

NOTE : For improved CB radio performance, connect the radio power leads directly to the vehicle battery. This helps to ensure:

1. Reduces conducted power line noise into radio by taking advantage of the mechanical filtering properties of the vehicle battery;
2. By using the correct wire gauge between the battery and radio, voltage drops to the radio transmitter section are minimized and transmitter RF output power is maximized.

Questions or Need Help? Please call Cobra Customer Care at 800-543-1608.

CB Antenna Installation
Only a properly matched Antenna system will allow maximum power output. In mobile installations (cars, trucks, boats, etc.), an antenna system that is nondirectional should be used. When installed in a boat, the transceiver will not operate at maximum efficiency without a ground plane unless the vessel has a steel hull. Before installing the transceiver in a boat, consult your dealer for information regarding an adequate grounding system.

NOTE : This product requires a CB antenna for use. Cobra offers a line of CB radio antennas that can be used with your 19 Series CB Radio. Visit cobra.com for antennas and antenna mounting options..

Antenna Installation Overview
A CB radio is only as good as the antenna it is connected to. You can choose from two types of mobile CB antennas, either a full-length whip antenna or a loaded whip antenna. There are several different mounting options depending your antenna and your vehicle’s specific requirements. There are two main methods for installing your CB antenna. Temporary installation or permanent installation.

1. Temporary installations typically utilize an antenna with a magnetic base for easy installation anywhere on the roof or hood of your vehicle. The Cobra HG A1500 42-inch magnetic mount antenna is a good example of such an antenna.
2. For permanent installations, the CB antenna is used in conjunction with a more purpose-built metal base that attaches to a specific part of a vehicle, whether that be to the mirror, hood, trunk, etc.

Antenna Installation (Permanent)
As previously stated, permanent antenna installations typically use a metal mounting piece in conjunction with the CB antenna to securely mount to a specific location on your vehicle. Each vehicle and CB user will have different mounting requirements, so make sure to determine the location that best suits your needs before mounting your antenna.

1. When installing a mobile antenna, it must be fixed to the vehicle where there is a maximum of metallic surface (ground plane). A poor ground plane will result in reduced transmission effectiveness from your CB radio.
2. For an antenna that is attached by drilling into the vehicle metallic body, ensure a good electrical ground between the coax shield and the vehicle body. Use proper protection for this electrical connection to guard against exposure to moisture.
3. When mounting of the antenna is complete, connect your coaxial cable running from your antenna to the antenna jack on the back of your CB radio. Be careful not to pinch the cable as this can also reduce your radio’s transmission effectiveness.
4. Once your antenna is installed and connected to your CB radio you can adjust its SWR if it is an adjustable antenna. Consult your owner’s manual for specific SWR adjustment instructions.

Operation

Display

1. A. TX Icon
2. B. AM or FM Icon
3. C. Auto Squelch Icon
4. D. RF Gain Icon
5. E. Channel
6. F. Key Tone Icon
7. G. S/RF Meter
8. H. Channel Lock Icon
9. I. Channel Frequency
10. J. VOX Icon

Turning Your CB Radio ON/OFF
The main control of the CB is the channel knob (the largest button on the radio). Push and release the channel knob to power the CB radio ON or OFF.

Volume
Rotate the channel knob left or right to adjust the volume.

AM/FM Selection
Your 19 Series CB allows you to change transmitter modulation and communicate over AM or FM modes. Use the AM/FM mode select button to change modes.

Changing AM/FM modes:

1. Press and release the AM/FM button to choose AM.
2. Press and release the AM/FM button again to choose FM.

Emergency Channel 9/19
Set CH 9 to obtain access to the emergency channel. Set CH 19 to obtain instant access to the information and calling channel.

Channel 9/19 access:

1. Press and hold the AM/FM button for 2 seconds to select Channel 9.
2. Press and hold the AM/FM button for 2 seconds to select Channel 19.
3. Repeat step 1 to select Channel 9.

Selecting a Channel

1. Push and release the Channel knob.
2. Rotate the channel knob left or right to select the channel.
3. Push and release the channel knob to save the setting.

Squelch Control (Levels 1 – 34)
Squelch (SQ) is used to cut off or eliminate receiver background noise in the absence of an incoming signal (when you are not talking).

To squelch your radio:

1. To adjust the squelch level, press and release the SQ/ASQ button. SQL -08, 08 indicates the squelch level.

2. Turn the POWER button or press the microphone UP or DN button to change the squelch level.
   NOTE: using the UP or DN buttons on the microphone changes the squelch levels rapidly.

3. Press and release the SQ/ASQ button again or wait 5 seconds to store the selected squelch level and exit.

NOTE: The higher the number, the stronger an incoming signal needs to be to break squelch and be received on the CB.

Auto Squelch Control (Levels 1 – 9)
Auto Squelch (ASQ) continuously measures and blocks the noise of incoming signals.

To auto-squelch your radio:

1. Press and hold the SQ/ASQ key until LCD displays AQ. AQ -06, 06 indicates the ASQ level. The higher the number, the stronger an incoming signal needs to be to break squelch and be received on the CB.

2. Turn the POWER button or press the microphone UP or DN button to change ASQ level.
   NOTE : Using the UP or DN buttons on the microphone changes the squelch levels rapidly.

3. Press and release the SQ/ASQ key again or wait 5 seconds to store the selected ASQ level and exit.

Operating Procedure to Receive
Be sure the power cord, antenna and microphone are connected to the proper connectors before proceeding further (see pages 4 and 5).

To receive:

1. Turn ON the radio.
2. Select the desired channel.
3. Set squelch to OFF (audio noise heard from speaker).
4. Set the receiver volume to a comfortable listen level.
5. Reset the squelch level for the intended listening requirements.

Operating Procedure to Transm it
Be sure the antenna is properly connected to the radio before transmitting.

WARNING : Prolonged transmitting without an antenna, or with a poorly matched antenna, could cause damage to the transmitter.

To transmit:

1. Select the desired channel.
2. The receiver and transmitter are controlled bythe Push-to-Talk switch on the microphone. Press the switch and the transmitter is activated; release switch to receive. When transmitting (on a clear channel), hold the microphone two inches from the mouth and speak clearly in a normal voice.

Signal Strength Meter
The Signal Strength Meter indicates the received signal strength from the antenna. The meter segments shown on the LCD increase with signal strength.

TX Indicator
The TX Indicator appears when in transmit mode. In this mode, the meter shows all bars at full output power.

Channel Frequenc y
Displays the current channel frequency.

Enable/Disable VOX

1. Push and hold the Push-To-Talk switch on the microphone, then
2. Push and release the MENU button.
3. This will both enable and disable the VOX function.

Scan

1.  Press and hold either the Channel UP or DOWN button (about 3 seconds) until SCAN is activated.
2. The radio will automatically scan all 40 Channels and stop on an active channel. Press any key to end SCAN.

Reset to Factory Default

1. Press and hold the MENU button to enter the menu list.
2. Turn the POWER button or press the microphone UP or DN button to choose the RESET setting.
3. Press and release the POWER button to select. RESET will blink in the display.
4. Press and hold the POWER button until RESET stops blinking.
5. Release the POWER button and the radio will automatically reset to factory default settings.

Menu Options

Selecting Options from the Menu

1. Press and release the MENU button to enter the menu list.
2. Turn the POWER button or press the microphone UP or DN buttons to choose the desired function.
3. Press and release the POWER button to enter the setting for the desired function. Once selected, the setting will blink on the LCD display.
4. Turn the POWER button clockwise or press the microphone UP or DN buttons to select the desired setting.
5. Press and release the POWER button to confirm the setting and exit.
6. To exit the menu, press and hold the POWER button or press and hold the microphone PTT switch or wait 10 seconds once the setting selection has been confirmed.

Frequency Ranges

This unit features advanced Phase Lock Loop (PLL) circuitry providing complete coverage of all 40 CB channels.

NOTE
All 40 channels support AM and FM operating modes.

Specifications

Troubleshooting and Replacement Parts

Maintenance/Adjustment
Your Cobra CB transceiver is specifically designed for the environment encountered in mobile installations. The use of all solid state circuitry and its light weight result in high reliability. Should a  failure occur, however, review the following, then if necessary, replace parts with identical parts. Substitution is not recommended. If you have questions, please call Cobra Customer Care at 800-543-1608 (hours are listed on the Cobra.com website).

1. Check connections to the source of power and make sure it is the 13.8 VDC required to operate your radio.
2. Check the fuses in the DC power cord and in the 12V accessory power plug.The main power lead (red) has a 2 Amp fuse – type F2AL 125V – UL rated in its holder. Use only the above specified type and size fuse for maximum protection. Failure to do so will void the warranty.
3. Make certain the microphone is properly plugged in.
4. Make certain the antenna is properly assembled and connected.

If you are unable to correct the problem, please contact Cobra customer service.

19 MINI AM/FM Replacement Parts & Accessories

Go to cobra.com for replacement parts and accessories.
Questions or Need Help? Please call Cobra Customer Care at 800-543-1608.

Limited Two-Year Warranty

Warranty Terms:
Cobra warrants your product against all defects in materials and workmanship for a period of two (2) years from the date of original purchase. Cobra, at our sole discretion, will repair or replace your product (with the same or comparable product) free of charge. Cobra will not pay shipping charges that you incur for sending your product to us. Products received COD will be refused. To make a warranty claim, we will require proof or purchase in the form of an invoice or receipt. No proof of purchase is required for factory direct purchases. Warranty Exclusions: Warranty does not apply to your product under any of the following conditions: 1. The serial number has been removed or modified. 2. Your product has been subjected to misuse or damage (including water damage, physical abuse, and/or improper installation). 3. Your product has been modified in any way. 4. Your receipt or proof-of-purchase is from a non-authorized dealer or internet auction site including E-bay, U-bid, or other non-authorized resellers.

LIMITATION OF WARRANTY: EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED HEREIN, YOU ARE ACQUIRING THE PRODUCT “AS IS” AND “WHERE IS”, WITHOUT REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY. COBRA SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ANY REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO THOSE CONCERNING THE MERCHANTABILITY AND SUITABILITY OF THE PRODUCT FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. COBRA SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE, MISUSE OR MOUNTING OF THE PRODUCT.

The above limitations or exclusions shall be limited to the extent they violate the laws of any particular state. Cobra is not responsible for products lost in shipment between the owner and our service center.

General Warranty Information
Each product we manufacture is covered by our factory warranty. While each product may have unique components and policy, the general guideline below will apply to most Cobra products. All Cobra products purchased factory-direct or from our Authorized Resellers will come with a full one to three (1-3) year warranty from the date of the original retail purchase (see policy statement above for full warranty details and exclusions). Standard accessories packaged with each model will have a one-year factory warranty. Accessory items have a one-year factory warranty. Shipping to our facility is not covered in our warranty. Return shipping is included within the US.

This warranty is non-transferrable.
For the sake of clarity, ‘repair or replace the Product or its defective part’ does not include removal or installation work, costs or expenses which include but are not limited to labor costs or expenses. Cobra will not be responsible for lost packages.

Need Help?

If you have any questions about operation or installing your new Cobra product, PLEASE CONTACT COBRA FIRST…do not return this product to any retail store. The contact information for Cobra will vary depending on the country in which you purchased and utilize the product. For the latest contact information, please go to www.cobra.com/support For products purchased in the U.S.A. you may call 800-543-1608. For products purchased in the U.S.A., if your product should require factory service, please please go to www.cobra.com/support and follow the instructions for returning your product to the Cobra Factory Service Department for service. Should there be any problems with this product or further information is needed on its features please visit www.cobra.com for support, frequently asked questions, Declarations of Conformity, and full manuals.

For Products Purchased Outside the U.S.A. or Canada
Please contact your local dealer for product service information.

For Products Used in Canada: Industry Canada Notice
This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. this device may not cause interference, and
2. this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

FCC Statement

FCC Part 15.19 Warning Statement
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 Part 15.21 Warning Statement

NOTE : THE GRANTEE IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS NOT EXPRESSLY APPROVED BY THE PARTY RESPONSIBLE FOR COMPLIANCE. SUCH MODIFICATIONS COULD VOID THE USER’S AUTHORITY TO OPERATE  THE EQUIPMENT.

FCC Part 15.105(b) Warning Statement
NOTE : This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.

However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

IC RSS-GEN, Sec 8.4 Warning Statem ent
This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s).

Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. this device may not cause interference, and
2. this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

IC RSS-GEN, Sec 8.3 Warning Statement
This radio transmitter (identify the device by certification number, or model number if Category II) has been approved by Industry Canada to operate with the antenna types listed below with the maximum permissible gain and required antenna impedance for each antenna type indicated. Antenna types not included in this list, having a gain greater than the maximum gain indicated for that type, are strictly prohibited for use with this device.

RF Exposure Statement
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 40cm between the radiator & yourbody. The device is in compliance with RF exposure guidelines, users can obtain Canadian information on RF exposure and compliance. The minimum distance from body to use the device is 40cm.

FAQ

Q: What should I do if I encounter interference while using the CB radio?
A: If you experience interference, try adjusting the squelch control to reduce background noise and improve reception.

Q: How do I change channels on the CB radio?
A: To change channels, use the Channel Up/Down buttons on the device.

Q: Can I connect an external speaker to the CB radio?
A: Yes, the CB radio has an External Speaker Jack for connecting an external speaker.

References

• Communication Radios & Automotive Electronics | Cobra.com
• Communication Radios & Automotive Electronics | Cobra.com

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