Cobra Marine MARINE MR HH300 EU User manual

Our Thanks to You and
Customer Assistance
Introduction
A1 English
Thank you for purchasing a CobraMarine™VHF radio.
Properly used, this 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.
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 further
assistance after reading this manual, please contact your local dealer.
This equipment is intended for use in:
For Warranty, Product Service and
Accessory Information
Please contact your local dealer or distributor.
See the enclosed leaflet that provides contact
information for the CobraMarine™international
distributors.
Customer Assistance
©2004 Cobra Electronics Europe Limited
Dungar House
Northumberland Avenue
Dun Laoghaire
County Dublin, Ireland
www.cobra.com
❑
aAT
❑
aBE
❑CY
❑
aCZ
❑DE
❑
aDK
❑
aEE
❑
aES
❑
aFI
❑
aFR
❑
aGB
❑
aGR
❑
aHU
❑
aIE
❑
aIS
❑
aIT
❑
aLT
❑
aLV
❑
aLI
❑
aLU
❑
aMT
❑
aNL
❑
aNO
❑
aPL
❑
aPT
❑
aSE
❑
aCH
❑SI
❑
aSK
❑TR
VHF MARINE RADIO
MR HH300 EU
Owner’s Manual
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®English
Printed in China Part No.480-118-P
For more information or to
order any of our products,
please visit our website:
www.cobra.com
CB Radios
microTALK®Radios
Radar/Laser Detectors
Safety Alert®Traffic Warning Systems
Accessories
GPS (Global Positioning System)
HighGear®Accessories
CobraMarine™VHF Radios
Power Inverters
The Cobra Electronics Corporation™
line of quality products includes:
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®English
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:53 PM Page 1

Introduction Table of Contents
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®1
Introduction
Our Thanks to You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1
Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A1
Radio Controls and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2
Backlit LCD Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3
Product Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A3
Important Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Recommendations for Marine Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Licensing Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
VHF Marine Radio Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Voice Calling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Radiotelephone Calls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Emergency Messages and Distress Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
VHF Marine Channel Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Installation
Included in this Package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Antenna, Wrist Strap and Belt Clip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Battery Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Operating Your Radio
Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Standby/Receive and Transmit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Advanced Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
CE Marking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Backlit LCD Screen
and Product Features
Introduction
Dual Power
Selectable to 1 or 5 watts output
power for near or distant calling.
International/Canada/U.S.A. Channels
Allows operation on any of the three
different channel maps established
for these areas.
Waterproof
Submersible to 1 metre of water for
30 minutes — meets JIS7 Standards.
Channel Scan
Lets you scan through channels to
find conversations in progress.
Button Lock
Prevents accidental changes to your
settings when you set this feature.
Instant Channel 16
Instant access to priority Channel 16.
Dual-Watch
Lets you monitor two channels at
once — Channel 16 and one user
programmable channel.
Product Features •
Battery
Power Icon
Simplex
Operation
Icon
Channel
Numbers
Dual-Watch
Icon
Scan
Icon
Button
Lock
Icon
U-I-C Active
Channel Map
Icons
Transmit/Received
Signal Strength Icons
High/Low
Power Icons
Transmit
Icon
Backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Screen •
A2
Radio Controls
and Indicators
Introduction
A3
English English
Dual-Watch/
Scan Button
Instant
Channel 16
Button
Backlit
LCD Screen
Wrist
Strap
Connector
UIC Button
High/Low
Power Button
Speaker/
Microphone
Channel
Up/Down
Buttons
Talk
Button
Antenna Belt Clip
Engagement
Knob
Battery
Compartment
Squelch
Knob
On-Off Power/
Volume Knob
Backlight/
Key Lock
Button
Charging
Contacts
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:54 PM Page A2

Introduction
Important Safety Information
Introduction Important Safety Information
2English Nothing comes close to a Cobra®3
WARNINGS
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 Electronics Corporation™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
recommended RF exposure limits or create other dangerous conditions.
CAUTIONS
Your radio is only waterproof when the antenna and batteries
are properly installed.
AVOID using or storing the radio at temperatures below -20˚C
or above 60˚C.
KEEP your radio at least 1m 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.
Changes or modifications to your radio MAY VOID its compliance with
government rules and make it illegal to use.
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.
General Precautions
The following WARNINGS and CAUTIONS will make you aware of RF exposure
hazards and how to assure you operate the radio within the recommended RF
exposure limits established for it.
WARNINGS
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 recommended
allowable limits for occupational use):
ALWAYS hold the radio, especially the antenna, at least 5 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 Electronics
Corporation™authorized replacement attachment. In addition to the RF energy
exposure hazard, doing so may damage the radio.
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:54 PM Page 2

Licensing Information
Recommendations for
Marine Communication
Introduction
4English Nothing comes close to a Cobra®5
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 5 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 coastguard does not endorse mobile phones as substitutes for marine radios.
They generally cannot communicate with rescue vessels and, if you make a distress
call on a mobile phone, only the party you call will be able to hear you. Additionally,
mobile phones may have limited coverage over water and can be hard to locate.
If you don’t know where you are, the coastguard will have difficulty finding you
if you’re using a mobile phone.
However, mobile phones can have a place on board where mobile coverage
is available — to allow social conversations and keep the marine frequencies
uncluttered and available for their intended uses.
Licensing Information •
The radio operates on all currently allocated marine channels and is switchable for
use according to International, Canadian or U.S.A. regulations. It features instant
access to emergency Channel 16 by pressing one key.
CobraMarine™VHF radios comply with the U.S. FCC (Federal Communications
Commission) requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Service.
Station License
The UK requires a ships radio license and a marine radio operator’s certificate before
transmitting equipment can be used aboard a vessel. Other European countries have
specific requirements of their own.
For detailed information and applications, contact the Radio Licensing Centre run
by Royal Mail in the UK. In other countries contact the relevant national postal or
telecommunications authority.
Canadian or U.S.A. Station License
If your vessel will be entering the sovereign waters of Canada or the U.S.A., you
should contact Industry of Canada, Radio Regulatory Branch or the U.S. Federal
Communications Commission for licensing and operating information.
Radio Call Sign
A radio call sign is included as part of the ships radio license in the UK.
Other countries may have different practices; contact your local regulatory
authority for information.
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.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:54 PM Page 4

Voice Calling
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®7
VHF Marine Radio
Procedures
6English
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 1 watt first if the station being called is within a few kilometres. 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. 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 2 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 your station by your call sign, ship name 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.
VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsVHF Marine Radio Protocols
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.
■ When the channel is quiet, press the Talk button and call the ship you
wish to contact. (Hold the radio at least 5 cm 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 page 12 – 21.
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 the best sound quality at the station you’re calling, hold the radio
at least 5 cm from your mouth and slightly off to one side. Speak in
a normal tone of voice.
For Example
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:54 PM Page 6

Emergency Messages
and Distress Procedure
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®9
Radiotelephone Calls
8English
VHF Marine Radio Protocols VHF Marine Radio Protocols
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 VHF radio and telephones on land, sea and in the
air. See pages 12 – 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 coastguard 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,
coastguard or coastguard auxiliary craft may be dispatched.
In any event, do communicate with the coastguard 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 fuel, 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.
Marine Emergency Signals
The three spoken international emergency signals are:
The distress signal MAYDAY is used to indicate that a station is threatened
by grave and imminent danger and requests immediate assistance.
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.)
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.
MAYDAY
PAN PAN
SECURITE
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:54 PM Page 8

For Example
Emergency Messages
and Distress Procedure
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®11
Emergency Messages
and Distress Procedure
10 English
Keep the radio nearby. Even after your message has been received, the coastguard can
find you more quickly if you can transmit a signal for a rescue boat to home in on.
“Mayday — Mayday — Mayday”
“This is Corsair — Corsair — Corsair”
“Mayday Corsair”
“Point Lynas bears 220 degrees magnetic — distance 5 kilometres”
“Struck submerged object and flooding — need pump and tow”
“Four adults, three children aboard — no one injured”
“Estimate we will remain afloat one-half hour”
“Corsair is an 8 metre sloop with blue hull and tan deck house”
“I will be listening on Channel 16”
“This is Corsair”
“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 Radio Protocols VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Marine Distress Procedure
Speak slowly — clearly — calmly.
1. Make sure your radio is On.
2. Select VHF Channel 16.
3. Press Talk button and say:
“MAYDAY — MAYDAY — MAYDAY”
(or “PAN PAN — PAN PAN — PAN PAN”
or “SECURITE — SECURITE — SECURITE”)
4. Say:
“THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign].”
5. Say:
“MAYDAY” (or “PAN PAN” or “SECURITE”)
[your vessel name or call sign.]
6. Tell where you are:
(Your position or what navigational aids or landmarks are near.)
7. State the nature of your distress.
8. State the kind of assistance needed.
9. Give number of persons aboard and conditions of any injured.
10. Estimate present seaworthiness of your vessel.
11. Briefly describe your vessel (length, type, colour, hull).
12. Say:
“I WILL BE LISTENING ON CHANNEL 16.”
13. End message by saying:
“THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign] OVER.”
14. Release Talk button and listen. Someone should answer.
If not, repeat the call, beginning at item 3 above.
For medical problems such as crew hit by sailboat boom or heart
trouble, make a PAN PAN call as above with the word medico added.
“PAN PAN MEDICO — PAN PAN MEDICO — PAN PAN MEDICO”
The coastguard will try to link you to a doctor who can give
expert advice and evaluate the need for evacuation.
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:54 PM Page 10

VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®13
VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
12 English
VHF Marine Channel Assignments •
Three sets of VHF Channel Maps have been established for marine use
internationally, in Canada and in the U.S.A. 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. When shipped from
the factory, your radio will be set to the International Channel Map.
(See page 28 for instructions on how to change the Channel Map.)
The following is a brief outline of the channel assignments in the
International Channel Map.
Distress, Safety and Calling
Channel 16
Getting the attention of another station (calling) or in emergencies
(distress and safety).
Intership Safety
Channel 6
Ship-to-ship safety messages and for search and rescue messages to
coastguard ships and aircraft.
On-Board Communication
Channel 15
Used for communication between parts of large ships.
Non-Commercial
Channels 68, 72
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 8, 9, 10, 11, 17, 67, 88, 88A
Working channels for working ships only. Messages must be about business or
needs of the ship. Use Channels 8, 67, 88 and 88A only for ship-to-ship messages.
Public Correspondence (marine operator)
Channels 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 60, 61,
62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 78, 82, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88
For calls to marine operators at public coast stations. You can make and receive
telephone calls through these stations.
Port Operations
Channels 4, 5, 7, 12, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 61, 62,
63, 64, 65, 66, 69, 71, 73, 74, 77, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83
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 1 watt.
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.
NOTE
The U.S.A. and Canada impose restrictions on the use of many channels
within their territorial waters. These are noted in the channel assignment
chart. If operating your vessel in U.S.A. or Canadian waters, consult the
national communication authority or a knowledgeable local radio operator
for further guidance
VHF Marine Radio Protocols VHF Marine Radio Protocols
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:54 PM Page 12

VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®15
VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
14 English
VHF Marine Radio ProtocolsVHF Marine Radio Protocols
Channel Use
01 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
01A Port Operations and Commercial; VTS in selected areas
02 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
03 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
03A Government Only
04 Public Correspondence (marine operator); Port Operations; Ship Movement
04A West Coast (coastguard only); East Coast (commercial fishing)
05 Public Correspondence (marine operator); Port Operations; Ship Movement
05A Port Operations; VTS in selected areas
06 Intership Safety
07 Public Correspondence (marine operator); Port Operations; Ship Movement
07A Commercial
08 Commercial (intership only)
09 Boater Calling Channel; Non-Commercial (recreational)
10 Commercial
11 Commercial; VTS in selected areas
12 Port Operations; VTS in selected areas
13 Intership Navigation Safety (bridge-to-bridge); in U.S. waters,
large vessels maintain a listening watch on this channel
14 Port Operations; VTS in selected areas
15 Environmental (receive only); used by class C EPIRB’s.
15 International (on-board communication); Canada (EPIRB buoys only)
16 International Distress, Safety and Calling
17 State Controlled (U.S.A. only)
Channel Channel Map Frequency Power
Number Int’l Canada USA Transmit Receive Limits
01 •• 156.050 160.650
01A •156.050 156.050
02 •• 156.100 160.700
03 •• 156.150 160.750
03A •156.150 156.150
04 •156.200 160.800
04A •156.200 156.200
05 •156.250 160.850
05A ••156.250 156.250
06 • • • 156.300 156.300
07 •156.350 160.950
07A ••156.350 156.350
08 •••156.400 156.400
09 • • • 156.450 156.450
10 •••156.500 156.500
11 •••156.550 156.550
12 • • • 156.600 156.600
13 •••
156.650 156.650 1 Watt CAN and USA
14 •••156.700 156.700
15 •Rx Only 156.750
15 •• 156.750 156.750 1 Watt INT and CAN
16 • • • 156.800 156.800
17 •••156.850 156.850 1 Watt CAN
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:54 PM Page 14

VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®17
VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
16 English
VHF Marine Radio Protocols VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Channel Use
18 Port Operations; Ship Movement
18A Commercial
19 Port Operations; Ship Movement
19A Commercial
20 International (port operations, ship movement); Canada (coastguard only)
20A Port Operations
21 Port Operations; Ship Movement
21A U.S. (government only); Canada (coastguard only)
22 Port Operations; Ship Movement
22A U.S. and Canadian coastguard Liaison and Maritime Safety Information
Broadcasts that are announced on Channel 16
23 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
23A Government Only
24 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
25 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
26 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
27 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
28 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
60 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
61 Public Correspondence (marine operator); Port Operation; Ship Movement
61A U.S. (government only); Canada (coastguard only);
West Coast (coastguard only); East Coast (commercial fishing)
62 Public Correspondence (marine operator); Port Operations; Ship Movement
62A West Coast (coastguard only); East Coast (commercial fishing)
Channel Channel Map Frequency Power
Number Int’l Canada U.S.A. Transmit Receive Limits
18 •156.900 161.500
18A •• 156.900 156.900
19 •156.950 161.550
19A •• 156.950 156.950
20 ••• 157.000 161.600 1 Watt CAN
20A •157.000 157.000
21 • • 157.050 161.650
21A •• 157.050 157.050
22 •157.100 161.700
22A • • 157.100 157.100
23 •• 157.150 161.750
23A •157.150 157.150
24 ••• 157.200 161.800
25 ••• 157.250 161.850
26 ••• 157.300 161.900
27 • • • 157.350 161.950
28 ••• 157.400 162.000
60 •• 156.025 160.625
61 •156.075 160.675
61A ••
156.075 156.075
62 •156.125 160.725
62A •156.125 156.125
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:54 PM Page 16

VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®19
VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
18 English
VHF Marine Radio Protocols VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Channel Channel Map Frequency Power
Number Int’l Canada USA Transmit Receive Limits
63 •156.175 160.775
63A •156.175 156.175
64 • • 156.225 160.825
64A •• 156.225 156.225
65 •156.275 160.875
65A •• 156.275 156.275
66 •156.325 160.925
66A •• 156.325 156.325 1 Watt CAN
67 •••
156.375 156.375 1 Watt USA
68 ••• 156.425 156.425
69 •••
156.475 156.475
70 ••• RX only 156.525
71 •••
156.575 156.575
72 ••• 156.625 156.625
73 •••
156.675 156.675
74 ••• 156.725 156.725
77 • • • 156.875 156.875 1 Watt CAN
78 •156.925 161.525
78A • • 156.925 156.925
Channel Use
63 Public Correspondence (marine operator); Port Operations; Ship Movement
63A Port Operations and Commercial; VTS in selected areas
64 Public Correspondence (marine operator); Port Operations; Ship Movement
64A U.S. (government only); Canada (Commercial Fishing)
65 Public Correspondence (marine operator); Port Operations; Ship Movement
65A Port Operations
66 Public Correspondence (marine operator); Port Operations; Ship Movement
66A Port Operations
67 U.S. (commercial); used for bridge-to-bridge communications in lower
Mississippi River (intership only); Canada (commercial fishing), S&R
68 Non-Commercial (recreational)
69 International (intership, port operations, ship movement);
U.S. (non-commercial, recreational); Canada (commercial fishing only)
70 Digital Selective Calling (voice communications not allowed)
71 International (port operations, ship movement);
U.S. and Canada (non-commercial, recreational)
72 Non-Commercial (intership only)
73 International (intership, port operations, ship movement);
U.S. (port operations); Canada (commercial fishing only)
74 International (Intership, Port Operations, Ship Movement);
U.S. (port operations); Canada (commercial fishing only)
77 Port Operations (intership only); restricted to communications
with pilots for movement and docking of ships
78 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
78A Non-Commercial (recreational)
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:54 PM Page 18

VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®21
VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
20 English
VHF Marine Radio Protocols VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Channel Channel Map Frequency Power
Number Int’l Canada U.S.A. Transmit Receive Limits
79 •156.975 161.575
79A •• 156.975 156.975
80 •157.025 161.625
80A •• 157.025 157.025
81 •157.075 161.675
81A •• 157.075 157.075
82 •157.125 161.725
82A •• 157.125 157.125
83 •• 157.175 161.775
83A •• 157.175 157.175
84 ••• 157.225 161.825
84A •157.225 157.225
85 ••• 157.275 161.875
85A •157.275 157.275
86 ••• 157.325 161.925
86A •157.325 157.325
87 • • 157.375 161.975
87 •157.375 157.375
87A •157.375 157.375
88 •• 157.425 162.025
88 •157.425 157.425
88A •157.425 157.425
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 A2).
Channel Use
79 Port Operations; Ship Movement
79A Commercial (also non-commercial only in Great Lakes)
80 Port Operations; Ship Movement
80A Commercial (also non-commercial only in Great Lakes)
81 Port Operations; Ship Movement
81A U.S. (government only; environmental protection operations)
82 Public Correspondence (marine operator); Port Operation; Ship Movement
82A U.S. (government only); Canada (coastguard only)
83 Canada (coastguard only)
83A U.S. (government only); Canada (coastguard only)
84 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
84A Public Correspondence (marine operator)
85 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
85A Public Correspondence (marine operator)
86 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
86A Public Correspondence (marine operator)
87 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
87 Public Correspondence (marine operator)
87A Public Correspondence (marine operator)
88 Public Correspondence (ship to coast); in U.S. only within
121 kilometres of Canadian Border
88 Commercial Intership only
88A Commercial Intership only
NOTE
All the listed channels are pre-programmed at the factory according to
international regulations, those of Industry Canada (Canada) and those
of the FCC (U.S.A.). They cannot be altered by the user nor can modes
of operation be changed between simplex and duplex. In some countries,
additional channels are available. These can be programmed on the
radio by the local dealer or distributor.
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:54 PM Page 20

Install Antenna
Wrist Strap
Antenna, Wrist Strap
and Belt Clip
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®23
Included in this Package
22 English
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.
1. Align the base of the antenna with the
socket in the top of the radio.
2. 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.
InstallationInstallation
Included in this Package •
You should find all of the following items in the
package with your CobraMarine™VHF radio:
Battery Tray
Batteries Not Included Operating Instruction Manual Belt Clip
Radio Wrist Strap Flexible Antenna
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:55 PM Page 22

Antenna, Wrist Strap
and Belt Clip
Installation Battery Installation
24 English Nothing comes close to a Cobra®25
Belt Clip
Use the Belt Clip to carry your radio around with you.
1. Slide the clip onto your belt.
2. 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.
3. Once the knob has been inserted
all the way into the belt clip channel,
the radio will swing freely while
being securely retained.
Installation
Battery Installation •
The radio operates with six high quality AA
alkaline Batteries.
Installing the Batteries
1. Open the battery compartment by turning the
screw anticlockwise 1⁄4turn.
2. Slide the empty battery tray out of the radio.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Turn the screw 1⁄4turn clockwise to lock the
battery tray in place.
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.
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 change the batteries.
Install Batteries
Waterproof Sealing
Battery Compartment Lock
Slide Belt Clip onto Belt
Insert Knob onto Belt Clip
Secure Radio
Secondary Icons
Fully Charged
Partially Charged
Fully Discharged
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:55 PM Page 24

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:
1. Turn the On-Off Power/Volume knob clockwise.
To decrease the volume:
1. Turn the On-Off Power/Volume knob anticlockwise.
Squelch
Squelch control filters weak signals and radio
frequency noise so that you can hear the signals
you want more clearly.
To squelch your radio:
1. With the Squelch knob turned fully anticlockwise,
turn the On-Off Power/Volume knob clockwise until
you hear a hissing (noise) sound.
2. 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
anticlockwise.
If the squelch is set so you can hear a continuous hissing
sound, the scan and dual-watch functions will be blocked.
Getting Started
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®27
Getting Started
26 English
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:
1. Turn the Squelch knob half-way anticlockwise
(when viewed from above).
2. 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:
1. Turn the On-Off Power/Volume knob all the way
anticlockwise until you hear and feel a click.
Operating Your Radio Operating Your Radio
On-Off Power/Volume Knob
On-Off Power/Volume Knob
Squelch Knob
On-Off Power/Volume Knob
Squelch Knob
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:56 PM Page 26

Getting Started
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®29
Getting Started
28 English
International/Canada/U.S.A. Channel Maps
Three sets of VHF Channel Maps have been established for marine use
internationally, in Canada and in the U.S.A. Most of the channels are the
same for all three maps, but there are definite differences (see tables on
pages 12 – 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:
1. From Standby mode, press and hold the 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 1 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:
1. Press the Channel Up or Channel Down button.
If you are on Channel 88, pressing the Channel Up
button will advance to Channel 1. 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 1 or 5 watts of power.
Cobra Electronics Corporation™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 1 watt.
To toggle between the High and Low Power modes:
1. 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
1 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 when 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:
1. Press the Backlight/Key Lock button. The backlight
will remain On for ten seconds.
If the backlight is On, a press of the Backlight/Key Lock
button will turn it Off.
Operating Your Radio Operating Your Radio
UIC Button
Channel Up/Down Buttons
Currently on Channel 88
Low Power Mode
High Power Mode
High/Low Power Button
Backlight/Key Lock Button
Active Channel Map Icon
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:56 PM Page 28

Standby/Receive and Transmit
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®31
Standby/Receive and Transmit
30 English
Key Lock
To prevent accidental changes to your settings,
you can Lock:
■ Channel Up Button
■ Channel Down Button
■ UIC Button
■ 16 Button
■ High/Low Power Button
■ Dual-Watch/Scan Button
To lock or unlock the buttons:
1. Press and hold the Backlight/Key Lock button.
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 coastguard will activate the
corresponding routines in your radio.
NOTE
Coastguard alerts are broadcast on Channel 16.
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. (See pages 12 – 21 to help you
select the proper channels.)
To transmit a message:
1. Check to see that your radio is set to a proper
channel for the type of message you plan to send.
2. Toggle to the low power setting.
3. With the microphone about 5 cm from your mouth, press
and hold the Talk button and speak into the microphone.
The Transmit icon and meter will appear on the LCD.
4. Release the Talk button when you have finished
speaking. Your radio can only operate in either the
Transmit 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.
Operating Your Radio Operating Your Radio
Low Power Mode
Check Channel Number
Talk Button
5 cm from Mouth
Locked Buttons
Key Lock Icon
Backlight/Key Lock Button
Transmit Lo Power
Transmit High Power
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:56 PM Page 30

Advanced Operation
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®33
Advanced Operation
32 English
Advanced Operation •
Channel 16
This function gives you quick access to the calling
Channel 16 from any operational mode.
To switch to Channel 16:
1. Press the Channel 16 button to change to Channel 16.
To exit the Channel 16 mode and return to whatever status
existed before entering this mode, press the Channel 16
button a again.
While in the Channel 16 mode, you can also press
the Channel Up and Channel Down buttons to
change channels.
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 27 for squelch procedure.
To select the second channel for scanning
and enter Dual-Watch mode:
1. In Standby mode, use the Channel Up or
Channel Down button to change to the channel
you want to scan along with Channel 16.
2. 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 ten seconds to allow you to listen
to the traffic on the channel.
To exit Dual-Watch mode:
1. 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 ten 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.
Operating Your Radio Operating Your Radio
Channel 16 Button
Channel 16
Channel Up/Down Buttons
Dual-Watch/Scan Button
Dual-Watch Mode
a
Talk or Channel Up/Down
b
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:56 PM Page 32

Maintenance and
Troubleshooting
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®35
Advanced Operation
34 English
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 ten
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 the channel scan
to function. See page 27 for squelch procedure.
To enter channel scan:
1. From Standby mode, press and hold the
Dual-Watch/Scan button.
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 channel scan:
1. From Scan mode, press the Dual-Watch/Scan
button. This will return the radio to Standby mode
on the last scanned channel.
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 ten 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.
Operating Your Radio Operating Your Radio
Dual-Watch/Scan Button
88 30
60
75
Scanning
Scan Icon
a
Talk or Channel Up/Down
b
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.
No display on LCD when
radio is turned On Batteries are exhausted
Batteries not installed
properly
Recharge or replace batteries
Remove batteries and reinstall
according to polarity markings
NiMH batteries run
down quickly Batteries are at the end of their life Replace with new batteries
Will transmit at
1 watt, but not
at 5 watts
Batteries are low
Selected channel is
limited to 1 watt
Recharge or 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 5 watts or
move closer
Move until you have a “line-of-
sight” to the other station
Problem Possible Cause(s) Solution(s)
Troubleshooting •
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:56 PM Page 34

Declaration of Conformity
and CE Marking
Nothing comes close to a Cobra®37
Specifications
36 English
Operating Your Radio Operating Your Radio
Declaration of Conformity •
We, Cobra Electronics Europe Limited of
Dungar House
Northumberland Avenue
Dun Laoghaire
County Dublin, Ireland,
Declare under our sole responsibility that the product
Portable Marine Radio : MR HH400EU
MR HH300EU
To which this declaration relates, is in conformity with the
following standards and/or other normative documents.
EN60945 (2002) – EMC
EN60950-1 (2001) – SAFETY
ETSI EN301 178-1 (2000-08), ETSI EN301 178-2 (2000-08) – RADIO
We hereby declare that [all essential radio tests suites have been carried out and that] the above
named product is in conformity to all the essential requirements of Directive 1999/5/EC.
The conformity assessment procedure referred to in Article 10 and detailed in Annex [III] or [IV] of
Directive 1995/5/EC has been followed with the involvement of the following Notified Body(ies):
BABT, Claremont House, 34 Molesey Road, Walton-on-Thames, KT12 4RQ, UK
Identification mark:
The equipment will also carry the Class 2 equipment identifier.
The technical documentation relevant to the above equipment will be held at:
Dungar House
Northumberland Avenue
Dun Laoghaire, County Dublin, Ireland
(Name and address of EU representative)
Mike Kavanagh
(Name)
Managing Director of CEEL
(Title)
May 13, 2004
(Signature of authorized person) (Date)
0168
Specifications •
General
Number of Channels All International, Canadian and U.S.A.
Channel Spacing 25 kHz
Modulation 16 KOF3E
Input Voltage 7.2 VDC
Battery Life: Alkaline Batteries:
5% TX, 5% RX, 90% Stand-by 8 Hours @ 5 Watts, 10 hours @ 1 Watt
Current Drain:
Stand-by 40 mA
Receive 200 mA
Transmit 1.8 A @ High power 0.7 A @ Low
Temperature Range -20˚C to 60˚C
Radio Dimensions 139.7 mm x 55.9 mm x 35.6 mm
Radio Weight 499 g
Receiver
Frequency Range 155.500 MHz to 162.425 MHz
Receiver Type Double Conversion Super-Heterodyne
Sensitivity:
20 dB Quieting 0.35 uV
12 dB Sinad 0.30 uV
Adjacent Channel Selectivity -60 dB
Intermodulation and Rejection -60 dB
Spurious and Image Rejection -60 dB
AF Output 250 mW @ 8 Ohms
Transmitter
Frequency Range 155.500 MHz to 162.425 MHz
RF Output Power 1 and 5 Watts
Spurious Emissions -60 dB High -55 dB Low
Microphone Type Condenser
Frequency Stability +/-5 ppm
FM Hum and Noise -40 dB
300-BR-F 6/23/04 1:56 PM Page 36