Cobra Marine MR F77B GPS E User manual

A1 English
Our Thanks To You And
Customer Assistance
Introduction
Owner’s Manual
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra® English
Customer Assistance
Class-D Fixed Mount VHF Radio
MR F77W GPS E
MR F77B GPS E
Printed in China Part No. 480-1021-P Version E
Thank you for purchasing a CobraMarine®VHF radio.
Properly used, this Cobra®product will give you
many years of reliable service.
How Your CobraMarine VHF Radio Works
This radio is a VHF transceiver for fixed mounting on your boat. 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.
For Warranty, Product Service and
Accessory Information
Please contact your local dealer or distributor.
©2015 Cobra Electronics Europe Limited
Dungar House
Northumberland Avenue
Dun Laoghaire
County Dublin, Ireland
www.cobra.com
MRF77B/W_GPS_E_CVR.indd 1 5/7/15 2:48 PM

A3 English
Product Features
Introduction
A2 English
Transceiver Controls,
Indicators And Connections
Introduction
Built-In GPS Receiver
Shows GPS coordinates on screen and
automatically sends GPS location with
DSC calls.
Rewind-Say-Again®
Replay missed VHF calls. Automatically
records the last 20 seconds of incoming
radio transmissions. Great when in noisy
conditions.
Dual Power
Selectable to one (1) or 25 watts output
power for near or distant calling.
International/USA/Canada Channels
Allows operation on any of the three (3)
different channel maps established for
these areas.
Instant Channel 16
Instant access to the priority
Channel 16.
Digital Selective Calling (DSC Class-D)
Allows the ability to maintain a listening
watch on VHF Channel 16 while
simultaneously monitoring Channel 70
for DSC calls. Allows sending a distress
message at the touch of a button as well as
specific station-to-station calls. Radio utilizes
two (2) built-in encoders (receivers).
Memory Scan
Lets you scan through all selected memory
channels to find conversations in progress.
Dual Watch
Lets you monitor two (2) channels
at once — Channel 16, and one (1) user
selectable channel.
Noise Canceling Microphone
Blocks background noise to let your
voice be heard at the receiving station.
Illuminated Buttons
Helps you quickly find the buttons
you need in low light conditions.
Mounting Kits Included
Radio can be mounted on, under, or in
almost any flat surface using one (1) of
the included brackets.
Waterproof
Submersible to (1.5) meters of water for
30 minutes - meets IPX8/JIS8 Standards.
Alarm In
Allows connection to the alarm output of
your chart plotter to alert you when an
arrival, off-course, etc. alarm has been
activated.
Product Features •
On-Off
Power/
Volume
Knob
Active
Channel
Number
Instant Channel
16 Button
Squelch
Knob
High/Low
Power Button
DSC Distress Button
(Behind Red Spring
Loaded Cover)
Soft Keys-
Allows user to
select current
options displayed
on the screen.
Power
Connection
Antenna Socket
Backlit LCD
Screen
Up & Down
Buttons
Menu
Button
Rewind-Say-
Again®Button
PA/Speaker
Connection
GPS-In
Connection
GPS-Out
& Alarm In
Connection
MRF77B/W_GPS_E_CVR.indd 2 5/7/15 2:48 PM

Introduction
Table Of Contents
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®1
Introduction
Our Thanks To You ......................................................A1
Customer Assistance.....................................................A1
Transceiver Controls, Indicators And Connections ..............................A2
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
Digital Selective Calling (DSC)...............................................8
Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) ......................................9
Radiotelephone Calls.....................................................10
Emergency Messages And Distress Procedure.................................10
Marine Distress Procedure – DSC...........................................13
Installation and Start-Up
Included In This Package .................................................14
Accessories Order Info ...................................................15
Mounting and Powering The Radio ..........................................16
Antenna Requirements And Attachment ......................................20
External Devices And Connections ..........................................22
Operating Your Radio
Getting Started .........................................................24
Set-Up Routines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
LCD Display ............................................................29
Confirmation Tone & Channel Maps .........................................30
Time Adjust ............................................................31
Priority Channel.........................................................33
GPS Menu .............................................................34
Radio Self Test .........................................................36
ATIS ..................................................................37
Digital Select Calling (DSC) Set-Up ..........................................38
Advanced Operation .....................................................46
Digital Select Calling (DSC) Operation........................................52
Maintenance and Troubleshooting ..........................................66
Specifications ..........................................................67
Appendix
VHF Marine Channel Assignments ..........................................68
Customer Service
World City Time Zones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Flush Mount Template....................................................85
Declaration of Conformity .................................................86
MRF77E_MANL_GENRL.indd 1 5/7/15 2:49 PM

Introduction
2English
Important Safety Information
Introduction
Important Safety Information
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®3
Important Safety Information •
Before installing and using your CobraMarine VHF radio, please read these general
precautions and warnings.
Warning And Notice Statements
To make the most of this radio, it must be installed and used properly.
Please read the installation and operating instructions carefully before installing and
using it. Special attention must be paid to the WARNING and NOTICE statements in
this manual.
WARNING
Statements identify conditions that could result in personal injury or loss of life.
NOTICE
Statements identify conditions that could cause damage to the radio
or other equipment.
Safety Training Information
This CobraMarine radio is designed for and classified as “Occupational Use Only.”
It must only be used in the course of employment by individuals aware of both the
hazards and the ways to minimize those hazards. This radio is NOT intended for
use in an uncontrolled environment by the “General Population.”
nFCC OET Bulletin 65 Edition 97-01 Supplement C, Evaluating Compliance with FCC
Guidelines for Human Exposure to Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Fields.
nAmerican National Standards Institute (C95.1-1992), IEEE Standard for Safety
Levels with Respect to Human Exposure to Radio Frequency Electromagnetic
Fields, 3 kHz to 300 GHz.
nAmerican National Standards Institute (C95.3-1992), IEEE Recommended Practice
for the Measurement of Potentially Hazardous Electromagnetic Fields — RF and
Microwave.
nCobra Electronics Corporation™recommendations for radio frequency exposure
are based upon the federal regulatory requirements in the U.S.A. Your country
may have different requirements. Ask your dealer or another knowledgeable
person. Compliance with recommendations for Radio Frequency Exposure is the
responsibility of both the antenna installer and the radio operator.
Intro Operation Customer
Assistance
Warranty
Notice
Main Icons
Secondary Icons
Caution Warning
Installation Customer
Assistance
NOTE
Throughout this manual, the term “Transceiver” will be used to identify the main
unit containing the LCD screen and controls. The term “Radio” will be used to
identify the entire equipment including transceiver, microphone, antenna and any
attached external speakers.
The following WARNINGS and NOTICES will make you aware of RF exposure hazards
and how to assure you operate the radio within the FCC RF exposure
limits established for it.
WARNINGS
Your 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, DO NOT touch the antenna when
transmitting. KEEP the radio at least two (2) inches (5 cm) away from yourself
and others when transmitting. SEE page 20 in the antenna requirements
section for further information.
DO NOT operate the radio without a proper antenna or equivalent dummy load
attached. Doing so may expose you to excessive RF energy and will damage
the radio.
DO NOT transmit more than 50% of the time the radio is in use — 50% duty
cycle. The radio is transmitting when the Talk button is pressed and the
transmit information shows on the LCD screen.
ALWAYS use only Cobra authorized accessories.
NEVER connect the transceiver to AC power. It can be a fire hazard, may cause
an electric shock, and may damage the transceiver.
NEVER mount the transceiver or microphone where they might interfere with
operation of your vessel or cause injury.
DO NOT allow children or anyone unfamiliar with proper procedures to operate
the radio without supervision.
Failure to observe any of these warnings may cause you to exceed
FCC, Industry Canada or EU RF exposure limits or create other dangerous
conditions.
MRF77E_MANL_GENRL.indd 2-3 5/7/15 2:49 PM

4English
Recommendations For
Marine Communication Licensing Information
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®5
NOTICES
AVOID using or storing the radio at temperatures below -4°F (-20°C) or above
140°F (55°C).
NEVER connect the transceiver to DC power greater than 16 volts or to
any DC source with reversed polarity. Doing so will damage the transceiver.
DO NOT cut the power cables attached to the transceiver. Improper
reconnection with reversed polarity will damage the transceiver.
POSITION your radio, external speakers, and cables at least three (3) feet (0.9 m)
away from your vessel’s magnetic navigation compass. CHECK your compass
before and after installation to be sure that it has not introduced any deviation.
DO NOT attempt to service any internal parts yourself. Have any
necessary service performed by a qualified technician.
DO NOT drop the transceiver or microphone. Doing so may crack the
case or damage a waterproof seal. Once these items have been dropped,
the original waterproofing cannot be guaranteed.
DO NOT use chemicals or solvents such as mineral spirits and alcohol
to clean your radio. They may damage the case surfaces.
Changes or modifications to your radio MAY VOID its compliance and make it illegal
to use.
Recommendations For Marine Communication •
The frequencies your radio uses are set aside to enhance safety afloat and for
vessel navigation and operational messages over a range suitable for nearshore
voyages. If the 25 watt maximum output of your radio isn’t sufficient for the
distances you travel from the coast, consider installing 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
This CobraMarine®radio incorporates a VHF FM transceiver designed for use in
the frequency range of 156.025 to 163.275 MHz. It requires 13.8 volts DC and
has a switchable RF output power of 1 or 25 watts.
The transceiver is capable of RTCM SC 101 DSC (Digital Selective Calling) operation.
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 operators 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 Royal Mail Licensing Centre
in the UK. In other countries contact the local equivalent of the UK Royal Mail or
the national 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
Introduction
MRF77E_MANL_GENRL.indd 4-5 5/7/15 2:49 PM

6English
VHF Marine Radio
Procedures Voice Calling
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®7
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 miles. Try a second call after
waiting two (2) minutes. If there is no answer, switch to a higher power. This will conserve
your battery and minimize interference to other users by avoiding repeated calls.
Calling Coast Stations
Call a coast station on its assigned channel. You may use Channel 16 when you do not
know the assigned channel.
Calling Other Vessels
Call other vessels on Channel 16 or on Channel 9. (Channel 9 is preferred
for recreational vessel use.) You may also call on ship-to-ship channels
when you know that the vessel is listening on a ship-to-ship channel.
Initial Calling on Channel 16
The use of Channel 16 is permitted for making initial contact (hailing) with another vessel.
The limits on calling must be followed. Be reminded, Channel 16’s most important function
is for Emergency Messages. If, for some reason, Channel 16 is congested, the use of
Channel 9, especially in U.S. waters, may be used as the initial contact (hailing) channel for
non-emergency communication.
Limits On Calling
You must not call the same station for more than 30 seconds at a time.
If you do not get a reply, wait at least two (2) minutes before calling again.
After three (3) calling periods, wait at least 15 minutes before calling again.
Change Channels
After contacting another station on a calling channel, change immediately
to a channel which is available for the type of message you want to send.
Station Identification
Identify, in English, your station by your FCC call sign, ship name, the state registration
number, or other official number at both the beginning and end of each message.
Prohibited Communications
You MUST NOT transmit:
n False distress or emergency messages.
n Messages containing obscene, indecent, or profane words or meaning.
n 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.
n When you are on land.
Voice Calling •
To Call Another Vessel Or A Shore Installation Such As A Lock Or Bridge Tender:
n Make sure your radio is On.
n Select Channel 16 and listen to make sure it is not being used.
NOTE
Channel 9 may be used by recreational vessels for general-purpose
calling. This frequency should be used whenever possible to relieve
congestion on Channel 16.
n When the channel is quiet, press the Talk button and call the ship you wish
to call. (Hold the microphone a few inches from your face and speak directly into it in a
normal tone of voice — clearly and distinctly.) Say “[name
of station being called] THIS IS [your vessel’s name or call sign].”
n Once contact is made on the calling channel, you must switch to a proper working
channel. See the channel listing on page 66 through 78.
The vessel Corsair calling the vessel Vagabond:
Corsair: “Vagabond, this is Corsair (station license number call sign).”
Vagabond: “Corsair, this is Vagabond. Over.”
Corsair: “Vagabond go to working Channel 68. Over.”
Both parties switch over to the agreed upon working channel....
Corsair: “Vagabond I need to talk to you about... Over.”
Vagabond: “Corsair in answer to your question about... Over.”
Corsair: “Vagabond, thanks for the information about... (call sign and out).”
After each transmission, say “OVER” and release the microphone Push to Talk (PTT)
button. This confirms that the transmission has ended. When all communication with
the other vessel is totally completed, end the message by stating your call sign and
the word “OUT.” Remember, it is not necessary to state your call sign with each
transmission, only at the beginning and end of the message.
NOTE
For best sound quality at the shore station or other vessel receiving your call, hold
the microphone/speaker at least 2 in. (51 mm) from your mouth and
slightly off to one (1) side. Speak in a normal tone of voice.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols VHF Marine Radio Protocols
For Example
MRF77E_MANL_GENRL.indd 6-7 5/7/15 2:49 PM

Maritime Mobile
Service Identity (MMSI)
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®9
8English
Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
Digital Selective Calling (DSC) •
Digital selective calling is a semi-automated system for establishing a radio
call. It has been designed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO)
as an international standard for VHF, MF, and HF calls and is part of the
Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).
DSC will eventually replace aural (listening) watches on distress frequencies
and will be used to announce routine and urgent maritime safety information
broadcasts. Until DSC is fully implemented, it is still necessary to maintain a listening
watch on Channel 16.
The DSC system allows mariners to instantly send a distress call with GPS
position coordinates (requires a GPS receiver to be connected to the radio)
to the Coast Guard and other vessels within range of the transmission.
DSC also allows mariners to initiate and receive distress, urgent, safety,
routine, position request, position send, and group calls between vessels
equipped with DSC capable radios.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) •
An MMSI is a nine (9) digit number used on a marine radio capable of using digital
selective calling (DSC). It is used to selectively call other vessels or shore stations and
is similar to a telephone number.
For your CobraMarine®radio to operate in the DSC mode, you must enter your
maritime mobile service identity (MMSI) number. See page 41 for instructions
on how to enter it.
To Obtain An MMSI Number:
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, MMSI numbers are available from the Royal Mail Radio
Licensing Centre either when a radio license is applied for or any time afterward.
International
Users in other countries can obtain an MMSI from their country’s equivalent to
the UK Royal Mail, or their national telecommunications authority or ship registry.
This may involve amending or obtaining a ship station license.
North America
The MMSI Number Is Available In The U.S.A. From Any Of Two (2) Sources:
n U.S. Power Squadron www.usps.org
n BoatU.S.: 1-800-563-1536 – www.boatus.com/mmsi
NOTE
The above references are for recreational vessels only. Commercial vessels
should contact their national telecommunications authority or ship registry.
WARNING
This equipment is designed to generate a digital maritime distress and
safety signal to facilitate search and rescue. To be effective as a safety
device, this equipment must be used only within communication range
of a shore-based VHF marine channel to distress and safety watch system.
The range of the signal may vary, but under normal conditions should be
approximately 20 nautical miles.
MRF77E_MANL_GENRL.indd 8-9 5/7/15 2:49 PM

MAYDAY
PAN
SECURITE
10 English
Radiotelephone Calls Emergency Messages And Distress Procedure
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®11
Emergency Messages And Distress Procedure •
The ability to summon assistance in an emergency is the primary reason
to have a VHF marine radio. The marine environment can be unforgiving,
and what may initially be a minor problem can rapidly develop into a
situation beyond your control.
The Coast Guard monitors Channel 16, responds to all distress calls, and coordinates
all search and rescue efforts. Depending on the availability of
other capable vessels or commercial assistance operators in your vicinity,
Coast Guard or Coast Guard Auxiliary craft may be dispatched.
In any event, do communicate with the Coast Guard as soon as you experience
difficulties and before your situation becomes an emergency. Use the emergency
message procedures only after your situation has become grave or you are faced with
a sudden danger threatening life or property and requiring immediate help.
Use channel 16 to communicate your emergency message. Make sure you transmit on
high power. If you are merely out of gas, do not send an emergency message. Drop
your anchor and call a friend or marine to bring the fuel you need or to give you a tow.
Marine Emergency Signals
The three (3) 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 is used when the safety of the vessel or person
is in jeopardy. (This signal is properly pronounced 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 (3) times prior to the message.
If You Hear A Distress Call
You must give any message beginning with one (1) 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.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols VHF Marine Radio Protocols
MRF77E_MANL_GENRL.indd 10-11 5/7/15 2:49 PM

For Example
Emergency Messages
And Distress Procedure
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®13
12 English
Emergency Messages
And Distress Procedure
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,”
or “SECURITE — SECURITE — SECURITE.”)
4. Say:
“THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign].”
5. Say:
“MAYDAY (or “PAN” or “SECURITE”)
[your vessel name or call sign].
6. Tell where you are:
(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, color, 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.
Keep the radio nearby. Even after your message has been received, the Coast Guard can
find you more quickly if you can transmit a signal for a rescue boat to hone in on.
“Mayday — Mayday — Mayday”
“This is Corsair — Corsair — Corsair” [or “Illinois 1234 AB” three (3) times]
“Mayday Corsair (or Illinois 1234 AB)”
“Navy Pier bears 220 degrees magnetic — distance five (5) miles”
“Struck submerged object and flooding — need pump and tow”
“Four adults, three children aboard — no one injured”
“Estimate we will remain afloat one-half (1⁄2) hour”
“Corsair (or Illinois 1234 AB) is 26 foot sloop with blue hull and tan deck house”
“I will be listening on Channel 16”
“This is Corsair (or Illinois 1234 AB)”
“Over”
It is a good idea to write out a script of the message form and post it where you
and others on your vessel can see it when an emergency message needs to be sent.
Marine Distress Procedure – DSC •
Digital Selective Calling (DSC) is a semi-automated system that will allow you to press
the Distress button from any routine to make a distress call. When the distress button
is pressed, all other channels go to Standby mode and allow the digitally encoded
“pre-programmed” message to take precedence. Important information such as your
MMSI number, position and name will be transmitted on Channel 16. The distress
alarm will sound for two (2) minutes or until the alarm is cleared.
The DSC system allows you to choose a “pre-programmed” distress call such as:
“Man Overboard, Sinking, Collision.” There are many pre-programmed choices to
choose from. If a GPS is connected to your radio, your coordinates will also be sent to
the Coast Guard as well as to other vessels that are within range of the transmission.
DSC calling also allows the user to initiate and receive distress, urgent, safety,
routine, position request, position send and group calls between vessels equipped
with DSC capable radios.
WARNING
This radio will generate a digital maritime distress and safety signal to
help facilitate search and rescue. This radio must be used only within
communication range of a shore based VHF station with a distress and safety
watch system. The range of the signal may vary, however, under normal
conditions should be approximately 20 nautical miles.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols VHF Marine Radio Protocols
MRF77E_MANL_GENRL.indd 12-13 5/7/15 2:49 PM

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®15
14 English
Accessories Order Info
Installation And Start-Up
Optional Accessories •
You can find quality Cobra products and accessories at your local Cobra
dealer, or in the U.S.A., you can order directly from Cobra.
Intro Operation Customer
Assistance
Warranty
Notice
Main Icons
Secondary Icons
Caution Warning
Installation Customer
Assistance
Installation And Start-Up
Included In This Package
Included In This Package •
You should find all of the following items in the
package with your CobraMarine VHF radio:
Transceiver Flush Mount Kit Transceiver Surface Mount Kit
Microphone
Transceiver*
Operating Instruction Manual
GPS Interface Cable
Intro Operation Customer
Assistance
Warranty
Notice
Main Icons
Secondary Icons
Caution Warning
Installation Customer
Assistance
Microphone Mounting Kit
MRF77E_MANL_GENRL.indd 14-15 5/7/15 2:49 PM

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®17
16 English
Installation And Start-Up
Mounting And
Powering The Radio
Mounting And Powering The Radio •
Before using your CobraMarine VHF radio, it must be installed on your vessel.
Installing Your Radio
Choose a location for your radio where it will be conveniently accessible with the
following factors in mind:
n The leads to the battery and the antenna are best kept as short as possible.
n The antenna must be mounted at least three (3) feet from the transceiver.
n The radio and all speakers need to be far enough from any magnetic
compass to avoid deviation due to the speaker magnet.
n There needs to be free air flow around the heat-sink fins on the back
of the transceiver.
Surface Mount
A Surface Mounting kit is included with your CobraMarine VHF radio to allow its
installation on almost any flat surface.
To Mount The Transceiver
On Almost Any Flat Surface:
1. Use the mounting bracket
as a template to drill holes
for the mounting screws.
2. Attach the mounting bracket
to the chosen surface.
3. Attach the transceiver to
the mounting bracket with
the locking knobs.
4. Tilt the transceiver to
a convenient angle and
tighten the locking knobs.
Surface Mounting Kit
Tilt Lock Knobs
Microphone Bracket
To Install The Microphone Bracket:
1. Install the microphone bracket
on a vertical surface near the transceiver
using the supplied stainless steel screws.
Flush Mount
A Flush Mounting kit is included with your CobraMarine
VHF radio to allow its installation in almost any flat surface.
To Mount The Transceiver Flush In Almost Any Flat Surface:
1. Use the supplied template to mark and cut an opening
in the flat surface. See page 85 for template.
CAUTION
Before cutting, be sure the area behind the flat
surface is clear of any instruments or wires that
might be damaged in the process.
2. Insert the transceiver into the opening.
3. Attach the flush mounting brackets to the sides of the
transceiver with the adjusting screw flanges facing
the back of the flat surface.
4. Tighten the adjusting screws against the back of the flat
surface until the flange on the front of the transceiver
is tight against the flat surface.
Installation And Start-Up
Mounting And
Powering The Radio
Use Supplied Template
Insert Transceiver
Adjust Screws
See page 85
for template.
Microphone Bracket
MRF77E_MANL_INSTALL.indd 26-27 5/7/15 2:49 PM

Mounting And
Powering The Radio
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®19
18 English
Installation And Start-Up Installation And Start-Up
Mounting And
Powering The Radio
NOTE
All wiring is best kept as short as possible. If the power leads must be
extended, use a high-quality, marine-grade cable sized for up to 10 amps
of current. To minimize voltage drop, choose a wire gauge as follows:
Length Wire Gauge
Up to 1.5m(4.9ft) 1.6 mils(#14)
Up to 3.0m(9.8 ft) 2.0 mils(#12)
Up to 5.0m(16.4 ft) 2.6 mils(#10)
Up to 6.0m(19.7 ft) 3.3 mils(#8)
Power Connection Cables
Red Cable
Positive (+)
Black Cable
Negative (-)
– +
Electrical Power Connection
Your CobraMarine VHF radio is powered
from +10.0V to +16.0V vessel direct
current electrical, negative ground
systems (12-volt nominal). A fused
power connection lead is provided at the
back of the transceiver.
To Connect To A Power Source:
1. Attach the black (-) wire to a negative
(-) ground.
2. Attach the fused red power (+) wire
to the positive (+) side of the power
system.
NOTE
This radio will draw up to 8 amps when transmitting at full power.
NOTICES
A reverse polarity connection will damage the radio.
When replacing the fuse in your transceiver, use only the size and type
originally provided.
MRF77E_MANL_INSTALL.indd 28-29 5/7/15 2:49 PM

Antenna Requirements
And Attachment
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®21
20 English
Antenna Requirements
And Attachment
Installation And Start-Up Installation And Start-Up
Antenna Requirements And Attachment •
Antenna Requirements
Your CobraMarine VHF radio requires an external marine antenna
to send signals into the air and to receive them. The radio is arranged
to use any of the popular marine VHF antennas, but it is up to you to
choose which antenna to use.
Since it represents the link between your radio and the outside world,
Cobra®suggests you purchase the best quality antenna, coaxial cable,
and connectors you can. This is best accomplished with the advice
and guidance of a knowledgeable dealer who can assess the variables
involved with your particular boat and preferences.
WARNING
Compliance with requirements for Radio Frequency Exposure is
the responsibility of both the antenna installer and the radio operator.
Safe Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) Radius
To avoid health hazards from excessive exposure to RF energy, FCC OET Bulletin
65 establishes an MPE radius of 10’ (3 m) for the maximum power
of your radio with an antenna having a maximum power gain of 9 dBi.
This means that all persons must be at least 10’ (3 m) away from the
antenna when the radio is transmitting.
Installation Requirements
A) An omnidirectional antenna with a gain not greater than 9 dBi must
be mounted at least 16.4’ (5 m) above the highest deck where people
may be during radio transmissions, measured vertically from the lowest point
of the antenna. This provides the minimum separation distance
to comply with RF exposure requirements and is based on the MPE
radius of 10’ (3 m) plus the 6.6’ (2 m) height of an adult.
B) For vessels without structure to mount the antenna as described in A,
it must be mounted as follows AND all persons must be outside the
10’ (3 m) MPE radius during radio transmissions. The antenna must
be mounted so that its lowest point is at least 3.3’ (1 m) vertically above
the heads of all persons during radio transmissions.
Radio Operator Requirements
Do not transmit when anyone is within the MPE radius of the antenna unless
that person or persons are shielded from the antenna by a grounded metallic
barrier. This is especially important on vessels with antennas mounted as
described in B where no one may be within 9’ (2.8 m) horizontally from the base
of the antenna during transmissions.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE ABOVE LIMITS MAY EXPOSE THOSE WITHIN
THE MPE RADIUS TO RF ENERGY ABSORPTION IN EXCESS OF THE MAXIMUM
PERMISSIBLE EXPOSURE. IT IS THE RADIO OPERATOR’S RESPONSIBILITY TO
INSURE THAT MPE LIMITS ARE HEEDED AND THAT
NO ONE IS WITHIN THE MPE RADIUS DURING TRANSMISSIONS.
Antenna Lead Attachment
Once the antenna is installed, the Coaxial Cable Lead can
be attached to the socket at the back of the transceiver.
CAUTION
Attempting to transmit without an antenna attached will
damage your CobraMarine VHF radio.
Coaxial Cable Socket
MRF77E_MANL_INSTALL.indd 30-31 5/7/15 2:49 PM

External Devices
And Connections
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®23
22 English
External Devices
And Connections
External Devices And Connections •
Your CobraMarine VHF radio is set up to connect auxiliary devices for navigation,
convenience, and added versatility. As is the case with the antenna, choosing these
devices is best done with the advice and guidance of a knowledgeable dealer.
Standard connectors are provided on the front and back of the transceiver.
External Speaker (Not Included)
An External Speaker can provide greater volume to hear messages than the speaker
incorporated in the CobraMarine microphone/speaker.
To Install An External Speaker:
1. Connect the wires to the External Speaker as follows:
Orange wire - +Positive connection
Black wire - -Negative connection (Black wire is common shared -Negative for
the External Speaker and PA output)
2. Make sure to solder, crimp, or twist the wires together firmly and use shrink
tubing or electrical tape to waterproof the connection.
Public Address Speaker (Not Included)
At times, it may be handy to hail other boats or give instructions to line handlers
on the dock. Your CobraMarine VHF radio can be switched to operate in the Public
Address mode through an attached PA speaker.
To Install A Public Address Speaker:
1. Connect the wires to the External Speaker as follows:
Red wire - +Positive connection
Black wire - -Negative connection (Black wire is common shared -Negative for the
External Speaker and PA output)
2. Make sure to solder, crimp, or twist the wires together firmly and use shrink
tubing or electrical tape to waterproof the connection.
Installation And Start-Up Installation And Start-Up
Wiring Located at Back
of Radio
Wiring for External and
Public Address Speakers
Global Positioning System (GPS) Device
Your Cobra Marine radio includes a built-in GPS receiver. Your position will be
continuously indicated on the LCD and, most importantly, it will be included
automatically with any DSC Distress message you may need to send. That will take the
“search” out of “search and rescue”.
An external GPS input connector has been provided to allow connection to a
back-up GPS receiver.
To Install an External GPS Device:
1. Install the GPS device in a convenient location according to its manufacturer’s
directions.
2. Plug-in the optional Cobra C.P.S. (Cobra Positioning System) into the provided
2.5mm jack.
3. Or using the supplied 2-wire adapter wire as follows:
Yellow wire - NMEA 0183 + Data in
Green wire - NMEA 0183 - Data in.
NOTE
Satellite acquisition time is dependent on the antenna mounting location. If the
acquisition takes too long, relocate the radio or use an external GPS receiver.
NOTE
GPS data input is as follows:
• Input voltage (peak to peak): 10V
• Maximum data rate: 4800 baud
• Impedance: 4KΩ
Wiring Located at Back
of Radio
Cobra Positioning
System Plug GPS Interface Cable
MRF77E_MANL_INSTALL.indd 32-33 5/7/15 2:49 PM

Getting Started
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®25
24 English
Getting Started
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 transceiver. Press means a momentary press, then release; press and
hold means to hold the button.
Tones And Alarms
When your CobraMarine VHF radio is On, you can expect to hear the following tones
and alarms. The volume of these sounds is controlled by the circuitry in the radio and
is not affected by the volume set with the On-Off Power/Volume knob.
Confirmation Tone
Single high-pitched beep confirms all button presses except the Talk button.
It can be turned On or Off. See set-up routines on page 30.
Error Tone
Three low-pitched beep indicates an invalid button press.
DSC Distress Alarm
High—low—high—low—high. Pause, then repeat. The volume of all alarms will
increase after 10 seconds. Press any button to turn it Off.
NOTE
This alarm sounds only for DSC distress calls on Channel 70.
It does not sound for voice calls on Channel 16 — you still
must listen for those.
Distress Acknowledgement Alarm
High—low—high—low—high. Pause, then repeat. The volume of all alarms will
increase after 10 seconds. Press any button to turn it Off.
DSC Routine Call Alarm
High—pause—high—pause—high. Long pause, then repeat. Press any button to turn
it Off.
DSC Geographical Alarm
Loud, continuous, medium-pitched, high-low tones (warble) — sounds
when a geographical call is received. Press any button to turn it Off.
DSC Position Request Alarm
Medium-loud, continuous, low-pitched series of closely spaced, four (4) beeps [three
(3) short – one (1) long] groups — sounds when a position request call
is received. Press any button to turn it Off.
DSC Individual Alarm
High—pause—high—pause—high. Long pause, then repeat. Press any button to turn
it Off.
Power On-Off
Transceiver power can be turned On or Off by the On-Off Power/Volume
knob on the transceiver.
To Turn Your Radio On Or Off:
1. Rotate the Off Power/Volume knob clockwise to turn on
the transceiver. To turn off the transceiver, rotate the Off
Power/Volume counter clockwise until a “click” is heard.
When the radio is powered On, the confirmation tone
will sound.
The radio will return to the settings in effect when it was
last powered Off, the LCD will show the corresponding
information, and all controls will be operative. The radio
will then be in Standby mode.
Volume
The On-Off Power/Volume knob on the transceiver 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. That is controlled by the circuitry of
your radio. The volume bar graph will be shown to indicate
the volume setting. 2 seconds after finishing the volume
adjustment, the radio will return to the Standby mode.
To Increase The Volume:
•Turn the On-Off Power/Volume knob clockwise.
To Decrease The Volume:
•Turn the On-Off Power/Volume knob counter-clockwise.
Squelch
Squelch control filters weak signals and radio frequency noise so that you can more
clearly hear the signals you want. You can think of it as a variable barrier that blocks
what you don’t want to hear.
Operating Your Radio Operating Your Radio
On-Off Power/
Volume Knob
VOlume
On-Off Power/
Volume Knob
On-Off Power/
Volume Knob
MRF77E_MANL_INSTALL.indd 34-35 5/7/15 2:49 PM

To Squelch Your Radio:
1. With the Squelch knob turned fully counter-clockwise, turn
the On-Off/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 (higher barrier)
will filter weak and medium strength signals until only the
strongest signal can get through at the highest squelch setting.
The Squelch bar graph will be shown to indicate the Squelch
setting. 2 seconds after finishing the Squelch adjustment, the
radio will return to the Standby mode.
To Receive Weaker Signals:
1. Turn the Squelch knob counterclockwise (lower barrier).
If the squelch is set so that you can hear a continuous hissing
sound, the memory scan and dual watch functions will be
blocked.
Standby And Receive
Standby mode is the usual mode for the radio whenever it is
turned On.
From Standby Mode, You Can:
n Change your radio’s settings using set-up routines.
n Receive messages on the current channel as well
as DSC messages.
n Switch to Transmit mode using the Talk button.
While the radio is in Standby mode, the Receive mode is
entered whenever a strong enough signal to break squelch is
sent to the radio. You will hear the message through whichever
speakers are connected to the radio.
To Change The Channel You Are Listening To,
You Can Choose One Of The Following:
a. Press the Up/Down buttons. This will take you to
the next higher or lower VHF channel. For rapid
advance, press and hold the Up or Down button.
b. Press the Channel 16+ button. This will take
you to Channel 16. Additional presses will toggle between
Channels 16 and the current user selected channel.
c. Press and release the Back softkey to return the radio to
Standby Mode.Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®27
26 English
HI/LO Transmit Setting •
Transmit Power Output
Your radio can Transmit selectively at one (1) or 25 watts of power. Cobra®suggests
you maintain the low power setting for short-range communications and to avoid
overpowering nearby stations with your signal. Use the high power setting for long-range
communications or when you do not receive a response to a signal sent at one (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 one
(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.
Transmit a Message
1. Check to see that your unit 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 two (2) inches [five (5) cm] from
your mouth, press and hold the Talk button and speak into
the microphone. Transmit will be indicated on the LCD.
4. Release the Talk button when you are finished speaking. Your
unit 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.
NOTE
If the Talk button is held down for five (5) minutes, the radio will
automatically cease transmitting to prevent unwanted signal generation.
As soon as the Talk button is released, it can be pressed again to
resume transmission.
Squelch Knob
Lower Barrier
Standby Mode
Getting Started
Getting Started
Operating Your Radio Operating Your Radio
Turn Till Hissing
Sound Stops
Up/Down Buttons
Channel 16 Button
Squelch
High/Low Power Button
DW CALL SCAN more
emerg
no gps Data
1WINT
MRF77W GPS E & MRF77B GPS E LCD POP LABEL 1:1
55mm Wide x 30mm High
REV. 12.9.2014
55.00
30.00
21:12 11/11
25.53.438N
110.27.843W EMERG
SCAN MORE
INT 25W
TW
MEM
CALL
MRF77E_MANL_INSTALL.indd 36-37 5/7/15 2:49 PM

Set-Up Routines
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®29
28 English
Set-Up Routines
Set-Up Routines •
Settings Menu
The Settings menu in the CobraMarine VHF radio allows you to turn On and Off many
of its features, to adjust other features to suit your preferences, and to enter your user
MMSI number.
To Enter The Settings Menu:
1. Press the Menu button.
The Settings menu will appear on the LCD.
After entering the Settings menu, you can scroll
through it to make as many entries as you like.
Whenever the setting selection highlight appears in a feature
portion of the menu, it will highlight the setting that was in
effect when you entered the menu.
When you are nished with changes, you can exit the
Settings menu by pressing the Exit soft key and return to
Standby mode.
To Exit The Settings Menu:
1. Use the Up/Down buttons to scroll down to
EXIT at the bottom of the menu, or press the Exit soft key
to move up through the menu until the radio returns to the
Standby mode.
NOTE
Basic set-up routines are described here. For set-up
routines that apply specically to a particular function,
they are included in the section for that function.
Set-Up Routines •
Settings Menu
The Settings menu in the CobraMarine VHF radio allows you to turn On and Off many
of its features, to adjust other features to suit your preferences, and to enter your user
MMSI number.
To Enter The Settings Menu:
1. Press the Menu button.
The Settings menu will appear on the LCD.
After entering the Settings menu, you can scroll
through it to make as many entries as you like.
Whenever the setting selection highlight appears in a feature
portion of the menu, it will highlight the setting that was in
effect when you entered the menu.
When you are nished with changes, you can exit the
Settings menu by pressing the Exit soft key and return to
Standby mode.
To Exit The Settings Menu:
1. Use the Up/Down buttons to scroll down to
EXIT at the bottom of the menu, or press the Exit soft key
to move up through the menu until the radio returns to the
Standby mode.
NOTE
Basic set-up routines are described here. For set-up
routines that apply specically to a particular function,
they are included in the section for that function.
LCD Backlight
The LCD has a Backlight lamp to make it visible in the dark.
This lamp can be adjusted for brightness or turned Off.
To Adjust The Backlight Level:
1. Enter the Settings menu and scroll to LAMP ADJ with the
Up/Down soft keys or using the Up/Down channel buttons.
2. Press the ENTR soft key and observe the current backlight
setting — HIGH, MEDIUM, LOW or OFF.
3. Use the Up/Down buttons or Right/Left soft keys to switch to
the setting you want.
4. Press the ENTR soft key to select the backlight setting. Or
press the EXIT soft key to EXIT without making changes
to the backlight setting.
5. The radio will return to the Settings menu. The radio will
remember the saved backlight setting, when powering off
the radio, or disconnecting power to the radio.
NOTE
If the backlight is set to off, ANY key press will activate the
backlight at the lowest setting.
LCD Contrast
The LCD backlight will not be visible in daylight, but the LCD
Contrast can be adjusted to make it easier to read in
different light conditions.
To Change The Contrast:
1. Enter the Settings menu and scroll to CONTRAST
ADJUST Up/Down soft keys or the UP/Down channel
buttons.
2. Press the ENTR soft key and observe the current contrast
setting — a number between one 0 and 16.
3. Use the Up/Down buttons or the Right/Left soft keys to
change the number up or down
4. Press the ENTR soft key to select a contrast level. Or press
the EXIT soft key to EXIT without making changes to the
Contrast setting.
5. The radio will return to the settings menu. The radio will
remember the saved contrast level, when powering off the
radio, or disconnecting power to the radio.
LCD Backlight
The LCD has a Backlight lamp to make it visible in the dark.
This lamp can be adjusted for brightness or turned Off.
To Adjust The Backlight Level:
1. Enter the Settings menu and scroll to LAMP ADJ with the
Up/Down soft keys or using the Up/Down channel buttons.
2. Press the ENTR soft key and observe the current backlight
setting — HIGH, MEDIUM, LOW or OFF.
3. Use the Up/Down buttons or Right/Left soft keys to switch to
the setting you want.
4. Press the ENTR soft key to select the backlight setting. Or
press the EXIT soft key to EXIT without making changes
to the backlight setting.
5. The radio will return to the Settings menu. The radio will
remember the saved backlight setting, when powering off
the radio, or disconnecting power to the radio.
NOTE
If the backlight is set to off, ANY key press will activate the
backlight at the lowest setting.
LCD Contrast
The LCD backlight will not be visible in daylight, but the LCD
Contrast can be adjusted to make it easier to read in
different light conditions.
To Change The Contrast:
1. Enter the Settings menu and scroll to CONTRAST
ADJUST Up/Down soft keys or the UP/Down channel
buttons.
2. Press the ENTR soft key and observe the current contrast
setting — a number between one 0 and 16.
3. Use the Up/Down buttons or the Right/Left soft keys to
change the number up or down
4. Press the ENTR soft key to select a contrast level. Or press
the EXIT soft key to EXIT without making changes to the
Contrast setting.
5. The radio will return to the settings menu. The radio will
remember the saved contrast level, when powering off the
radio, or disconnecting power to the radio.
Operating Your Radio Operating Your Radio
Menu Button
Up/Down Buttons
exit entr
menu
lamp adjust
contrast adjust
dsc setup
Soft Keys
Up/Down Buttons
exit entr
High
lamp adjust
Soft Keys
Up/Down Buttons
exit entr
16
level
contrast adjust
MRF77E_MANL_OPERATION.indd 28-29 5/7/15 2:50 PM

Set-Up Routines
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®31
30 English
Set-Up Routines
Conrmation Tone
The Conrmation Tone sounds when your CobraMarine VHF radio is turned On
and to conrm all button presses except for the Talk button. If you would prefer
not to hear the Conrmation Tone, you can turn it Off and On as you choose.
To Turn The Conrmation Tone On Or Off:
1. Enter the Settings menu and scroll to KEY TONE
with the Up/Down soft keys or the Up/Down channel
buttons.
2. Press the ENTR soft key and observe the current
conrmation tone setting — ON or OFF.
3. Use the Up/Down soft keys or the Up/Down channel
buttons to switch to the setting you want.
4. Press the ENTR soft key to select the setting. Or press the
EXIT soft key to EXIT without making changes to the Key
Tone setting.
5. The radio will return to the settings menu. The radio will
remember the saved Key Tone setting, when powering off
the radio, or disconnecting power to the radio.
International/Canada/U.S.A. Channel Maps
Three (3) sets of VHF Channel Maps have been established for marine use in the
International, Canada, and U.S.A. Most of the channels are the same for all three (3)
maps, but there are denite differences (see table on pages 66 through 78). Your radio
has all three (3) 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. Enter the Settings menu and scroll to CHANNEL MODE with
the Up/Down soft keys or the Up/Down channel buttons.
2. Press the ENTR soft key and observe the current channel
mode setting — INTERNATIONAL, CANADA, or USA.
3. Use the Up/Down soft keys or the Up/Down channel buttons
to switch to the setting you want.
4. Press the ENTR soft key to select the setting. Or press the
EXIT soft key to EXIT without making changes to the
Channel Mode setting
5. The radio will return to the settings menu. The radio will
remember the saved Key Tone setting, when powering off
the radio, or disconnecting power to the radio.
Time Adjust
All VHF, DSC, and GPS activities use a 24-hour clock and Universal Coordinated Time
(UTC) which was formerly known as Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Time Adjust uses
your built-in GPS to gather time input. Time Adjust will allow the radio to display the
time as Local time or UTC time. For time input to be converted to local time, you need
to enter the hour offset of your local time zone from Greenwich. (See world city time
zone chart on page 80). You can also choose to have the time displayed in a 12 or 24
hour format
To Change The Time Offset:
1. Enter the Settings menu and scroll to TIME ADJUST
with the Up/Down soft keys or the Up/Down channel
buttons.
2. Highlight the TIME OFFSET option in the menu.
3. Press the ENTR key and observe the current setting.
4. Use the Up/Down soft keys or the UP/Down channel
buttons to change the setting for your local time zone.
5. Press the ENTR soft key to select the setting. Or press the
EXIT soft key to EXIT without making changes to the
Local Time Zone setting.
6. The radio will return to the Time Adjust menu. The radio
will remember the saved Local Time Zone setting, when
powering off the radio, or disconnecting power to the radio.
To Select UTC or Local Time Display:
1. Enter the Settings menu and scroll to TIME ADJUST
with the Up/Down soft keys or the Up/Down channel
buttons.
2. Highlight the LOCAL TIME option in the menu.
3. Press the ENTR key and observe the current setting.
4. Use the Up/Down soft keys or the UP/Down channel
buttons to change the setting for how the radio will display
the time (UTC or Local).
5. Press the ENTR soft key to select the setting. Or press the
EXIT soft key to EXIT without making changes to the
Local Time setting.
6. The radio will return to the Time Adjust menu. The radio
will remember the saved Local Time Zone setting, when
powering off the radio, or disconnecting power to the radio.
Operating Your Radio Operating Your Radio
Soft Keys
Up/Down Buttons
exit entr
key tone
off
on
Soft Keys
Up/Down Buttons
Soft Keys
Up/Down Buttons
exit entr
time adjust
local time
time offset
exit entr
time offset
00:00
set local offset
MRF77E_MANL_OPERATION.indd 30-31 5/7/15 2:50 PM

33
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®
Set-Up Routines
32 English
Set-Up Routines
To Select 12 or 24 Hour Format Time Display:
1. Enter the Settings menu and scroll to TIME ADJUST
with the Up/Down soft keys or the Up/Down channel buttons.
2. Highlight the 12H/24H TIME DISP option in the menu.
3. Press the ENTR key and observe the current setting.
4. Use the Up/Down soft keys or the UP/Down channel
buttons to change the setting for how the radio will
display the time (12 Hour or 24 Hour format).
5. Press the ENTR soft key to select the setting. Or press the
EXIT soft key to EXIT without making changes to the
time format display setting.
6. The radio will return to the Time Adjust menu. The radio
will remember the saved 12 or 24 hour radio display
setting, when powering off the radio, or disconnecting
power to the radio.
Operating Your Radio Operating Your Radio
Priority Channel
This setting will allow you to choose whether channel 16 is or is not included when
channel scanning.
Soft Keys
Up/Down Buttons
exit entr
12h/24h time disp
12 hour format
24 hour format
Soft Keys
Up/Down Buttons
exit entr
priorty channel
off
on
1. Enter the Settings menu and scroll to PRIORITY
CHANNEL with the Up/Down soft keys or the Up/Down
channel buttons.
2. Press the ENTR soft key and observe the current priority
channel setting — ON or OFF.
3. Use the Up/Down soft keys or the Up/Down channel
buttons to switch to the setting you want.
4. Press the ENTR soft key to select the setting. Or press the
EXIT soft key to EXIT without making changes to the
priority channel setting.
5. The radio will return to the settings menu. The radio
will remember the saved priority channel setting, when
powering off the radio, or disconnecting power to the radio.
MRF77E_MANL_OPERATION.indd 32-33 5/7/15 2:50 PM

34
English
Set-Up Routines
To Select the Coordinate System:
1. Enter the Settings menu and scroll to GPS MENU
with the Up/Down soft keys or the Up/Down channel
buttons.
2. Highlight the COORDINATE SYSTEM option in the menu.
3. Press the ENTR key and observe the current setting.
4. Use the Up/Down soft keys or the UP/Down channel
buttons to change the setting to use the desired
coordinate system.
5. Press the ENTR soft key to select the setting. Or press the
EXIT soft key to EXIT without making changes to the
Coordinate System setting.
6. The radio will return to the GPS menu. The radio will
remember the saved Coordinate System setting, when
powering off the radio, or disconnecting power to the radio.
To Select the Satellite Based Augmentation System:
1. Enter the Settings menu and scroll to GPS MENU
with the Up/Down soft keys or the Up/Down channel
buttons.
2. Highlight the SAT BASED AUG SYS option in the menu.
3. Press the ENTR key and observe the current setting.
4. Use the Up/Down soft keys or the Up/Down buttons to
select the desired setting.
5. Press the ENTR soft key to select the setting. Or press the
EXIT soft key to EXIT without making changes to the Sat
Based Aug Sys setting.
6. The radio will return to the GPS menu. The radio will
remember the saved Sat Based Aug Sys setting, when
powering off the radio, or disconnecting power to the
radio.
Operating Your Radio
Set-Up Routines
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra®35
Operating Your Radio
Soft Keys
Up/Down Buttons
exit entr
coordinate system
ddd mm.mm
ddd mm.ss
ddd mm.mmm
o
o
o
GPS Menu
All VHF Marine radios SHOULD / NEED to have a GPS receiver connected and operating
to effectively use the DSC (Digital Selective Calling) features built-in to the radios.
In an Emergency you want the rescue authorities and surrounding vessels to know
where you are and to be able to quickly assist you in your time of need. Your MR F77
radio has a GPS receiver built right in!
This menu allows you to select the internal GPS receiver (already selected by default),
select an external GPS receiver, select the coordinate system which is basically the
accuracy (the most accurate setting is already selected by default), Select the Satellite
Based Augmentation System to be enabled or turned off (some areas on Earth need
this turned off for greater accuracy)(defaulted On), and allows you to test the GPS
receiver (will test either the internal or an external GPS receiver) to be sure that you
are receiving good satellite information and check the GPS signal strength.
To Select the Internal or an External GPS Receiver:
1. Enter the Settings menu and scroll to GPS MENU
with the Up/Down soft keys or the Up/Down channel
buttons.
2. Highlight the INT/EXT GPS option in the menu.
3. Press the ENTR key and observe the current setting.
4. Use the Up/Down soft keys or the UP/Down channel
buttons to change the setting to use the internal GPS or
turn off the internal GPS to use and external GPS.
5. Press the ENTR soft key to select the setting. Or press the
EXIT soft key to EXIT without making changes to the
GPS setting.
6. The radio will return to the GPS menu. The radio will
remember the saved GPS setting, when powering off the
radio, or disconnecting power to the radio.
Soft Keys
Up/Down Buttons
exit entr
gps menu
Int/Ext gps
coordinate system
true/magnetic
exit entr
Int/Ext GPS
internal gps off
internal GPS on
Soft Keys
Up/Down Buttons
exit entr
gps menu
Int/Ext gps
coordinate system
true/magnetic
exit entr
sat based aug sys
off
on
MRF77E_MANL_OPERATION.indd 34-35 5/7/15 2:50 PM