Cobra MU1500 Two Way Radio Owner’s Manual
- June 6, 2024
- Cobra
Table of Contents
Cobra MU1500 Two Way Radio
Making Life Easier and Safer
Staying in touch is convenient and easy when using your radio. Some of the many uses you will discover include: Communicating with others while hiking, biking, and working; keeping track of family and friends at a crowded public event; checking with travel companions; connecting with neighbors; arranging meeting spots with others while shopping at the mall; talking with your colleagues in warehouse or jobsite.
WARNING: Important Safety Instructions
- Only accessories included in this package or specified by the manufacturer should be used with the radio. The 5V micro-USB charging input is compatible with most high quality micro-USB chargers that fully conform to the USB standards.
- Do not use cleaners or solvents to clean the exterior of the radio. Use only a damp or dry cloth.
- Do not expose this product to splashing or dripping water.
- Do not attempt to service the receiver yourself. Removing the cover will void the warranty. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Cobra may void the user’s authority granted by the FCC to operate this device and should not be made.
- Do not plug the wall adaptor into the power outlet if the outlet is wet.
- Do not use any portable radio that has a damaged antenna. If a damaged antenna comes into contact with your skin, a minor burn can result.
Product Service & Support
For any questions about operating this new Cobra branded product, PLEASE
CONTACT US FIRST…do not return this product to the retail store. The contact
information for support will vary depending on the country in which you
purchased and utilize the product.
To obtain warranty service or other information for products purchased from
Altis itself or through its authorized reseller or agent and utilized in the
U.S.A., please call our consumer support line at
866-721-3805, or email us at
support@altistec.com. You will receive instructions on how to ship the
products at your expense to an Altis Global Limited Authorized Service Center.
To obtain service, you must include: (a) a copy of your receipt, bill of sale
or other comparable proof of purchase; (b) a written description of the
problem; and, most importantly; (c) your address and telephone number.
For warranty and customer service information outside the US, please contact
your local dealer.
For further information needed on its features,
please visit www.cobrawalkietalkie.com
for frequently asked questions and the electronic manual.
WARNING: Important Safety Instructions for Battery
-
Do not incinerate the battery even if it is severely damaged or is completely worn out.
-
Do not discard battery in a fire. The battery pack can explode in a fire.
-
Do not replace battery in any area labeled “Hazardous Atmosphere”. Any sparks created in a potentially explosive atmosphere can cause an explosion or fire.
-
Do not disassemble, crush, puncture, shred, or otherwise attempt to change the form of your battery.
-
Do not dry a wet or damp battery with an appliance or heat source, such as a hair dryer or microwave oven.
-
A small leakage of liquid from the battery cells may occur under extreme usage or temperature conditions. This does not indicate a failure. Do not open, deform or mutilate the battery as there may be corrosive materials which can cause damage to eyes or skin and may be toxic if swallowed.
However, if the outer seal is broken and this leakage gets on your skin:- Wash quickly with soap and water.
- Neutralize with a mild acid such as lemon juice or vinegar.
- If battery liquid gets into your eyes, flush them with clean water for a minimum of 10 minutes and seek immediate medical attention.
This product uses Lithium Polymer Battery. Do not transport package if damaged, a fire hazard could exist.
Recycle Battery
Local, state or federal laws may prohibit disposal of batteries in ordinary
trash. Consult your local waste authority for information regarding available
recycling and/or disposal options.
Introduction
Product Features
- 1. Antenna
- Push-to-Talk Button
- PF1 key
- PF2 key
- Microphone
- MIC-SP Jack Reading/Writing Frequency Jack
- Speaker
- LED indicator
- Power On/Off / Volume Knob
- Channel / Privacy Code Selection Knob
Operational Cautions
Exposure to high volume sound levels may cause temporary or permanent damage to your hearing. Although there is no single volume setting that is appropriate for everyone, you should always use your radio with the volume set at low level and avoid prolonged exposure to high volume sound levels.
- Set the volume control in a low position and use as low volume as possible.
- Avoid turning up the volume to block out noisy surroundings. Whenever possble, use your radio in a quiet environment with low background noise.
- Limit the amount of time you use headsets or earpiece at high volume levels.
- When using the radio without a headset or earpiece, do not place the radio’s speaker directly against your ear.
- Observe all signs and instructions that require an electrical device or RF radio product to be switched off in designated areas, such as gas/refueling stations, hospitals, blasting areas, potentially explosive atmospheres, or aircraft.
- If you experience a skin irritation after using this product, discontinue to use and seek medical attention.
- If the product or charger: overheats; has a damaged cord or plug; has been dropped or damaged; has been dropped into water, disconnect any charger from its power supply, discontinue use of the product.
Electromagnetic Interference
Nearly every electronic device is susceptible to electromagnetic interference
(EMI) if inadequately shielded, designed, or otherwise configured for
electromagnetic compatibility. Turn off your radio in any facility where
posted notices instruct you to do so. These facilities may include hospitals
or health care facilities that may be using equipment that is sensitive to
external RF energy.
- When instructed to do so, turn off your radios when on board an aircraft. Any use of a RF device must be in accordance with applicable laws, regulations and airline crew instructions.
- Some radios may interfere with some hearing aids. In the event of such interference, you may want to consult your hearing aid manufacturer or physician to discuss alternatives.
- If you use any other personal medical device, consult the manufacturer of your device to determine if it is adequately shielded from RF energy. Your doctor or physician may be able to assist you in obtaining this information.
Features
- 5 Channels with Preset privacy codes
- User Adjustable Privacy Codes (39 CTCSS codes 168 DTS codes)
- Hands-Free Operation (VOX)
- Button Lock
- Speaker/ Microphone/ Charge Jack
- Roger Beep Selectable On/Off
- Battery/Power Saver
- Low Battery Audible Alert
- Auto Squelch
- Maximum Range Extender
- Emergency Call
LED indicators
Standby Mode | Green LED flashes every 5 seconds |
---|
When Battery low
|
Red LED flashes every 1 second
When you press and hold Talk button and the Radio is transmitting
|
Green LED on
During VOX feature enabled
|
After Green LED flashes every 5 seconds
Red LED flashes 6 times
During Emergency Alert Mode
|
Solid Green (No flash)
Power Off the Radio during charging
Under Charging
|
Solid Red (No flash)
Fully Charge
|
Solid Green (No flash)
Caring for Your microTALK® Radio
Your microTALK® radio will give you years of trouble-free service if cared for
properly. Handle the radio gently. Keep the radio away from dust. Never put
the radio in water or in a damp place. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures.
Only use the supplied rechargeable batteries and desktop charger for
recharging your Cobra microTALK® radio.
Please charge new batteries for 8 hours for first time of use.
Cobra recommends your radio is turned off while being charged.
Using Your Radio
Caring for Your Radio
Note : DO NOT operate the radio without a proper 50 Ohm antenna attached,
as this may damage the radio
Connecting the antenna
Align the base of the antenna onto the SMA connector and turn clockwise
until snug. Do not overtighten.
Disconnecting the antenna
Turn the base of the antenna counter-clockwise to disconnect it from the
radio.
Installing the battery
Slide the battery upward along with the rails until the battery snaps into
place.
Removing the battery
Pull the battery locks downwards to release the battery from the radio. It is
suggested to remove the screws and unattached the belt clip before installing
/removing the battery.
Charging the battery with the radio
The radio is equipped with a charging base and a power supply adaptor. To
charge the battery with the radio attached:
- Place the charging base on a flat surface in a dry location.
- Insert the AC adaptor cable connector into the port on the rear of the charging base.
- Plug the AC adaptor into a power outlet.
- Align the slots on the sides of the battery with the rails in the charging base.
- Slide the radio into the charging base.
If charging light is not on, check position of radio. Radio should be upright. The charge indicator light on desktop charger will stay on (Red) as long as the radio is in the charging well, and the light will go off when the charging is complete.
Quick Start
- Turn Power On/Off / Volume Knob clockwise to turn the radio on and counter clockwise to turn the radio off.
- Select a desired channel. (Details please refer P.9)
- Press and hold the Talk button while speaking into the microphone.
- When finished talking, release the Talk button and listen for a response.
Turning your Radio On and Off
Turn ON/OFF Knob clockwise to turn the radio on and counterclockwise to
turn the radio off.
- In the ON position, the radio chirps, and the current channel number prompted after that.
Your microTALK® radio is now in Standby mode, ready to receive transmissions. The radio is always in Standby mode except when the Talk, or other buttons are pressed or the Channel/Privacy Code Selection Knob is turned.
- In Standby mode, Green LED flashes every 5 seconds.
Battery Low
When battery power is low, Red LED flashes every 1 second. Voice prompt
“Please charge” will be heard approximately 1 hour before device automatically
powers off.Your batteries should be recharged. It normally takes about 4 hours
to fully charge batteries.
Auto Battery Save
If there are no transmissions within 10 seconds, the radio will
automatically switch to Battery Save mode. This will not affect the radio’s
ability to receive incoming transmissions.
Communicating with Another Person
- Press and hold the Talk button.
- With the microphone about two inches (5 cm) from your mouth, speak in a normal voice.
- Release the Talk button when you are finished talking and listen for a response.
You cannot receive incoming calls while pressing the Talk button
Listening for a Response
Release the Talk button to receive incoming transmissions. Your microTALK®
radio is always in Standby mode while the Talk buttons are not pressed.
To Adjust Volume
PF2 Press Button for three seconds to turn off the auto squelch, rotating
Volume Knob until you reach a comfortable listening level.
- Rotate Volume Knob clockwise to increase the volume
- Rotate Volume Knob counterclockwise to decrease the volume.
Press and hold PF2 Button to enable the auto squelch.
Do not hold the radio close to your ear. If the volume is set to an
uncomfortable level, it could hurt your ear.
Auto Squelch (Maximum Range extender)
Your microTALK® radio will automatically shut off weak transmissions and unwanted noise due to terrain, conditions or if you’ve reached your Maximum Range limit.
You can turn off auto squelch (or turn on maximum range extender), allowing all signals to be received and extending the maximum range of your radio.
To turn maximum range extender on (Turn off auto squelch):
- Press the PF2 button for at least three seconds until you hear two beeps which indicates the maximum range extender is on.
- Press the PF2 button again to turn on auto squelch.
microTALK® Range
Your range will vary depending on terrain and conditions. In flat, open country your radio will operate at maximum range. Buildings and foliage in the path of the signal can reduce the range of the radio. Dense foliage and hilly terrain will further reduce the range of the radio.
To Select a Channel
The radio has 5 Channels that preset with customized privacy codes.
- During Standby mode, turn the Channel/Privacy
Code Selection Knob clockwise or counterclockwise to select a desired channel from CH1 to CH5.
Privacy Codes
Your radio incorporates two advanced coded squelch systems that can help to
reduce interference from other users on any given channel. CTCSS (Continuous
Tone Coded Squelch System) provides 39 privacy codes and DCS (Digitally Coded
Squelch) provides 168 privacy codes for factory default channel preset. The
CTCSS (Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System) can be used on all channels.
For ease of use and to reduce interference from other users, the 5 channels of
your radio have been customized, see Channel and Default Privacy Code Table.
Channel and Default Privacy Code Table
Channel | Privacy Code |
---|---|
Type | Number |
1 | CTCSS |
2 | CTCSS |
3 | CTCSS |
4 | CTCSS |
5 | CTCSS |
Set CTCSS Privacy Codes
To select a CTCSS privacy code:
- After selecting a channel, then return to Standby mode
- Press and hold the PF1 and PF2 buttons for at least 5 seconds until the current channel and code number prompted. The following messages may be prompted:
- The current channel number,
- The current CTCSS Code Number, or
- “Code Off” means no privacy code was set on the current channel, and allows all signals to be heard on a channel.
Reset all channels with factory default privacy codes
- Power off the radio. Press and hold the PF1 button and turn the Talk button, and turn the Power On/Off knob to turn on the radio simultaneously
- consecutive beeps following with a message “Code Memory OFF” prompted, all the channels on the radio has been reset to factory default privacy codes successfully.
More Functions
PC Program Software Setting
Running MU1500 PC software on your computer, by setting the key functions in
PC software -> Key Settings, you will be able to select or turn on preferred
features of your microTALK® radio.
Default Key function
PF1 key function
Press: Check Power
Hold : VOX ON/OFF
PF2 Key function
Press: Squelch Off
Hold: RB ON/OFF
Voice Activated Transmit (VOX)
In VOX mode, your microTALK® radio can be used “hands-free,” automatically
transmitting when you speak.
To turn VOX mode on or off:
- During Standby mode, press and hold PF1 button for at least 3 seconds to turn VOX On or Off, the current VOX status is promote
- Once the VOX is turned on, Red LED flashes after Green LED flash every 5 seconds.
To set VOX sensitivity:
- Run MU1500 PC Software on your computer
- Function Setup -> VOX Setting, tick on “VOX function” and select “VOX Level” for your radio. The value would be from 1 to 9. VOX 9 is the most sensitive level and VOX 1 is the least sensitive level.
Roger Beep Confirmation Tone
Your listener will hear an audible tone when you release the Talk button. This
alerts the other party that you are finished talking and it is OK for them to
speak.
To turn roger beep on or off:
Press and Hold PF2 button for at least 3 seconds to turn Roger Beep On or Off,
the current Roger Beep status is prompted.
Check Power (Battery Capacity)
During standby mode, press PF1 key to check the battery capacity. The current
battery capacity status is prompted.
Monitor
During standby mode, press the programmed key of Monitor function. The
“DU” beep is prompted and radio comes into the monitor state. The radio
will ignore CTCSS/DCS decode and start receiving as long as receiving the
matched carrier. Press this key again, the “Du Du” beep is prompted and
radio exits the monitor state.
Current Channel Power Enquiry
During standby mode, press the programmed key of current channel power
enquiry, the power level is prompted, “Du Du” beep stands for high power,
“Du” beep standas for low power.
Scan
During standby mode, turn the channel knob to 6, “Scan” is prompted and radio
starts scanning. Green LED flashes every second.
It scans channel 1-5 one by one, when one channel receives a matched signal,
the radio temporarily stays in this channel until the signal disappears.
Turn the channel knob to other channels to exit scan.
Emergency Alert Mode
The Emergency Alert feature can be used to signal receiver in your current
channel of your need for urgent help. To get the Emergency Alert function
work, you should assign PF1 or PF2 key function to “Alert Key” in PC software
first. The alert tone is emitted from your own radio speaker and the receiving
radios in your current channel.
- Assign PF1 or PF2 key to “Alert Key” function in PC software.
- Press the “Alert Key” button. Release the button after the alert tone begins to sound, Green LED stays on. There is no need to continue to hold the Emergency Alert button or use PTT for your message to be transmitted
- Press “Alert Key” again to stop the Emergency Alert, Green LED Off. Operation then return to normal twoway mode.
General Specifications
Frequency Allocation and Compatibility
A = Channel No. for 5 Channel Models
B = Frequency in MHz
C = Power Output
A B C
1 154.5700 High
2 154.6000 High
3 151.8200 High
4 151.8800 High
5 151.9400 High
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
WARNING: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by
the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s 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.
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.
Safety Information for microTALK® Radios
Your wireless handheld portable transceiver contains a low power transmitter.
When the talk button is pushed, it sends out radio frequency (RF) signals. The
device is authorized to operate at a duty factor not to exceed 50%. In August
1996, the Federal Communications Commissions (FCC) adopted RF exposure
guidelines with safety levels for handheld wireless devices
Important
FCC RF Exposure Requirements: For body-worn operation, this radio has been
tested and meets the FCC RF exposure guidelines when used with Cobra
accessories supplied or designated for this product. Use of other accessories
may not ensure compliance with FCC
RF exposure guidelines. Use only the supplied antenna. Unauthorized antennas,
modifications or attachments could damage the transmitter and may violate FCC
regulations.
Normal Position
Hold the transmitter approximately 25mm from your face and speak in a normal
voice,
with the antenna pointed up and away.
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.
IC RSS-GEN
This device complies with ISED 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. Under ISED
regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a
type
and maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter by ISED. To reduce
potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain
should be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power
(e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful communication.
The applicant is responsible for providing proper instructions to the user of
the radio device, and any usage restrictions, including limits of exposure
durations. The user manual shall provide installation and operation
instructions, as well as any special usage conditions, to ensure compliance
with SAR and/or RF field strength limits. For instance, compliance
distance shall be clearly stated in the user manual.
ISEDC Radiation Exposure Statement:
Any Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible
for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Your wireless handheld portable transceiver contains a low power transmitter.
When the talk button is pushed, it sends out radio frequency (RF) signals. The
device is authorized to
operate at a duty factor not to exceed 50%.
For body worn operation, this model device has been tested and meets the ISED
RF exposure guidelines when used with an accessory designated for this product
or when used with an accessory that Contains no metal and that positions of
the face up minimum distance is 25 mm.
Warranty & Trademark Acknowledgment
Limited One-Year Warranty
Altis Global Limited warrants to the original consumer purchaser only that
this product and the component parts thereof, will be free from defects in
workmanship and materials for a period of one year from the date of first
consumer purchase. During this period, Altis will, repair or replace, at its
sole option and discretion, this product or any defective parts. Altis’
liability hereunder shall be limited to repair or replacement of the defective
part or parts, and such correction shall constitute a fulfillment of all of
Altis’ warranties hereunder.
This limited warranty is only valid for the original consumer purchaser in limited jurisdictions and is not transferrable. This limited warranty will automatically terminate prior to expiration if this product is sold or otherwise transferred to another party. The product must be purchased from Altis or an authorized dealer or the warranty is void. This limited warranty is valid only for products purchased and utilized in specific jurisdictions. Please visit our website at www.cobrawalkietalkie.com for a list of jurisdictions wherein this limited warranty is valid.
This limited warranty does not cover damage due to misuse, abuse, negligence, acts of God, accident, commercial use or modification of, or to any part of this product. This warranty does not cover damage due to improper operation, maintenance or installation; ordinary wear and tear; or attempted alterations or repairs by anyone other than Altis or someone authorized by Altis to do warranty work. Any unauthorized alterations or repairs will void this warranty. This limited warranty does not cover product sold AS IS or WITH ALL FAULTS. This limited warranty is invalid if the factory applied serial number or date stamp has been altered, defaced or removed from this product. This limited warranty does not cover product purchased or utilized in a jurisdiction not covered.
The procedure for obtaining service and support, and the applicability of this warranty, will vary depending on the country or jurisdiction in which you purchase and utilize the product. For details on obtaining product service, support and other warranty information please visit www.cobrawalkietalkie.com.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state and country to country.
EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY SET FORTH IN THIS WARRANTY, ALTIS MAKES NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. ALTIS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES NOT STATED IN THIS LIMITED WARRANTY. ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES THAT MAY BE IMPOSED BY LAW ARE LIMITED TO THE TERMS OF THIS EXPRESSED WARRANTY.
LIMITATION OF REMEDIES AND DAMAGES. REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT AS PROVIDED UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE CONSUMER. ALTIS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ATTORNEYS’ FEES AND/OR COSTS OF LITIGATION, FOR BREACH OF ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY ON THIS PRODUCT. ALTIS IS NOT LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES CAUSED BY THE PRODUCT OR BY THE PRODUCT TO PERFORM, INCLUDING ANY LOST PROFITS, LOST SAVINGS, INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
ALTIS IS NOT LIABLE FOR ANY CLAIM MADE BY A THIRD PARTY OR MADE BY YOU FOR A THIRD PARTY. THIS LIMITATION APPLIES WHETHER DAMAGES ARE SOUGHT, OR A CLAIM MADE, UNDER THIS WARRANTY OR AS A TORT CLAIM (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE OR STRICT PRODUCT LIABILITY), A CONTRACT CLAIM, OR ANY OTHER CLAIM. THIS LIMITATION CANNOT BE WAIVED OR AMENDED BY ANY PERSON. THIS LIMITATION OF LIABILITY WILL BE EFFECTIVE EVEN IF ALTIS OR AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF ALTIS HAS BEEN ADVISED BY YOU OF THE POSSIBILITY OF ANY SUCH DAMAGES.
Some states and countries do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state and country to country.
Provided that the product was purchased from Altis itself or through its authorized reseller or agent and utilized in the U.S.A., Altis will, without charge, repair or replace, at its option, defective products, products or component parts upon delivery to the authorized Altis Global Limited Authorized Service Center, accompanied by proof of the date of first customer 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, to an address in the U.S.A, will be at Altis’ expense, if the product is under warranty.
For Products Purchased Outside the U.S.A.
Please contact your authorized local reseller or agent for warranty
information.
Trademark Acknowledgment
Manufactured, distributed, or sold by Altis Global Limited, official licensee
for this product. Cobra®, microTALK®, Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®, and the
snake design are registered trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA.
Cobra Electronics Corporation™ is a trademark of Cobra Electronics
Corporation, USA. All other product or service names are the property of their
respective owners.
©Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA 2021. All rights reserved.
Altis Global Limited,
2140 McGee Road,
Suite A-2200,
Snellville, GA, USA
support@altistec.com
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