Raymarine Ray215 User guide

Owner's Handbook
VHF Radio
Ray215

RAY215
Modular
VHF Radio
Owner’s
Handbook
Document number: R49013_2
Date: March 2002

i
Purpose
This handbook contains very important information on the installation,
operation, and maintenance of your new equipment. To get the best results
in operation and performance, please take the time to read this handbook
thoroughly.
RAY215
Raymarine radios comply with the Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) and Industry Canada requirements that regulate marine VHF radio
usage for the US and Canada, respectively.
Marine VHF radio users in the US must comply with all applicable FCC
rules and regulations, which are described in Section 6. This information
was current at the time this handbook was printed. Up-to-date information,
including licensing requirements, can be obtained on the FCC website at:
www.fcc.gov/wtb/marine
Official FCC forms can be obtained on the FCC website at:
www.fcc.gov/formpage.html
FCC NOFCC NO
FCC NOFCC NO
FCC NOTICETICE
TICETICE
TICE
This device complies with Parts 15 and 80 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the conditions that this device does not cause harmful
interference. Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly
approved in writing by Raymarine, Incorporated could violate compliance
with FCC rules and void the operator’s authority to operate the equipment.
FCCLicensingFCCLicensing
FCCLicensingFCCLicensing
FCCLicensing
An FCC Ship Radio Station License, Call Sign, and Operator License are
not required for most recreational vessels travelling in US waters. For
specifics on FCC licensing requirements, see Section 6 of this handbook.
MaritimeMobileServiceIdentity(MMSI)MaritimeMobileServiceIdentity(MMSI)
MaritimeMobileServiceIdentity(MMSI)MaritimeMobileServiceIdentity(MMSI)
MaritimeMobileServiceIdentity(MMSI)
The RAY215 includes equipment for Digital Selective Calling (DSC). A
nine-digitMaritime Mobile ServiceIdentity (MMSI) number is requiredto
operate the DSC equipment. You can request an MMSI number from the
FCC when you apply for a Station License. If your vessel does not require
a license, you may obtain an MMSI by contacting either BoatUS
(www.boatus.com)or MariTEL(www.maritelusa.com).Once obtained, you
can program the MMSI number into your RAY215 as described in this
handbook.

ii
INDUSTRINDUSTR
INDUSTRINDUSTR
INDUSTRY CANADY CANAD
Y CANADY CANAD
Y CANADAA
AA
A
You do not need a license to operate this radio within sovereign waters of
Canada or the US. You will need a license to operate this radio outside of
Canadaor theUS.Toobtain IndustryCanada licensinginformation, contact
the nearest field or regional office, or write:
Industry Canada
Radio Regulatory Branch
Attention: DOSP
300Slater Street
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada,KIAOC8
The following information about the radio is required to complete the
license application:
Industry Canada Certification Number 4069823229AV
FCCTypeNumber PJ5RAY215
FCC Type Accepted Parts 15 and 80
Output Power 1 watt (low) & 25 watts (high)
Modulation 16FE(FM)
Frequency Range 156.025-157.425
SAFETY NOTICE
This device is only an aid to navigation. Its performance can be affected
by many factors including equipment failure or defects, environmental
conditions, and improper handling or use. It is the user's responsibility to
exercise common prudence and navigational judgement, and this device
should not be relied upon as a substitute for such prudence and judgement.
Your Raymarine VHF radio generates and radiates radio frequency (RF)
electromagnetic energy (EME). This equipment must be installed and
operated in accordance with the instructions contained in this handbook.
Failure to do so can result in personal injury and/or product malfunction.
AntennaMountingandEMEExposureAntennaMountingandEMEExposure
AntennaMountingandEMEExposureAntennaMountingandEMEExposure
AntennaMountingandEMEExposure
For optimal radio performance and minimal human exposure to radio
frequency electromagnetic energy, make sure the antenna is:
• connected to the radio before transmitting
• properly mounted
• located where it will be away from people
• located at least three feet (91cm) from the RAY215 and the microphone/
handset

iii
SafeCompassDifferenceSafeCompassDifference
SafeCompassDifferenceSafeCompassDifference
SafeCompassDifference
Safe Compass Distance is 1 meter for a common mechanical compass;
other compass types may require greater distances.To be sure, you should
locate the radio as far as possible from the compass. Test your compass to
verify proper operation while the radio is also operating.
AdjustmentsorRepairAdjustmentsorRepair
AdjustmentsorRepairAdjustmentsorRepair
AdjustmentsorRepair
Adjustmentsrequire specializedservice proceduresand toolsonly available
to qualified service technicians – there are no user serviceable parts or
adjustments. The operator should never remove the cover or attempt to
service the equipment.
Raymarine products are supported by a network of Authorized Service
Representatives. For product information you may contact the following
regional centers:
United States Raymarine,Inc.
22 Cotton Road, Unit D
Nashua,NH03063-4219
USA
Telephone: [phone]
800-539-5539
Fax: [phone]
Europe RaymarineLtd
Anchorage Park
Portsmouth, Hampshire
EnglandPO3 5TD
Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
©Raymarine, Inc. 2001

iv
Table of Contents
Section1 General Description
1.1 Introduction .......................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Equipment Features............................................................... 1-1
1.3 Microphone / Handset Options ............................................ 1-2
Section2 Installation
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection .................................................... 2-1
2.2 Equipment Supplied .............................................................. 2-1
2.2.1 Optional Accessories............................................... 2-1
2.3 Planning the Installation ....................................................... 2-2
2.3.1 Typical Mounting Methods .................................... 2-2
2.3.2 Flush Mounting....................................................... 2-3
2.4 Electrical Connections........................................................... 2-6
2.4.1 DC Power and External Speaker Connections.......... 2-6
2.4.2 External Speaker Connections ................................. 2-7
2.4.3 NMEAData ............................................................. 2-8
2.4.4 Antenna Connections ............................................. 2-8
2.4.5 Antenna Mounting Suggestions............................. 2-9
2.4.6 Grounding................................................................ 2-9
Section3 Operation withStandardFistMicrophone
3.1 Introduction .......................................................................... 3-1
3.1.1 Microphone/Full Function Handset Priority ........... 3-1
3.1.2 Microphone/Handset Connections ......................... 3-2
3.2 Control and LCD Display ...................................................... 3-3
3.2.1 Controls ................................................................... 3-3
3.2.2 LCDDisplay ............................................................ 3-6
3.3 Operating Procedures............................................................ 3-8
3.3.1 Turning the Power On ............................................. 3-8
3.3.2 Setting the Squelch.................................................. 3-8
3.3.3 Setting the Volume ................................................... 3-8
3.3.4 Setting the Power Output ........................................ 3-8
3.3.5 Setting the Channel ................................................. 3-8
3.3.6 Setting the Frequency Mode ................................... 3-9
3.3.7 Transmitting ............................................................ 3-9
3.3.8 Selecting a Weather Channel................................... 3-9
3.3.9 PriorityChannel ..................................................... 3-10
3.3.10 Desensitized Reception ......................................... 3-10
3.3.11 Channel Memory ................................................... 3-10

v
3.3.12 Resetting Factory Defaults.................................... 3-10
3.3.13 Scan Modes........................................................... 3-11
3.3.14 Monitor Mode ....................................................... 3-12
3.3.15 LCDBacklight Function ........................................ 3-12
3.3.16 NMEA Operation ................................................... 3-13
3.3.17 DigitalSelective Calling (DSC).............................. 3-14
3.3.17.1 MMSI Number Setup ...................................... 3-15
3.3.17.2 IndividualShip's Call ...................................... 3-16
3.3.17.3 AllShips Call .................................................. 3-24
3.3.17.4 GroupCall ....................................................... 3-25
3.3.17.5 Distress Call .................................................... 3-26
3.3.17.6 Distress Relay Call .......................................... 3-28
Section4 Operation withOptionalFull FunctionHandset
4.1 Introduction .......................................................................... 4-1
4.1.1 Microphone/Full Function Handset Priority ........... 4-1
4.1.2 Microphone/Handset Connections ......................... 4-2
4.2 Control and LCD Display ...................................................... 4-3
4.2.1 Controls ................................................................... 4-3
4.2.2 LCDDisplay ............................................................ 4-7
4.3 Radio Functions .................................................................... 4-9
4.4 Operating Procedures.......................................................... 4-10
4.4.1 Setting theVolume ................................................. 4-10
4.4.2 Setting the Squelch................................................ 4-10
4.4.3 Using the Function Key ........................................ 4-11
4.4.4 Setting the Frequency Mode................................. 4-11
4.4.5 Receiving on the Weather Channels ..................... 4-12
4.4.6 Selecting the Channel ............................................ 4-12
4.4.7 PriorityChannel ..................................................... 4-13
4.4.8 Channel Memory ................................................... 4-13
4.4.9 Setting the Transmission Power Output................ 4-14
4.4.10 Desensitized Reception (Local Mode)................... 4-14
4.4.11 LCDBacklight Function ........................................ 4-14
4.4.12 Intercom Mode ...................................................... 4-14
4.4.13 Scan Mode ............................................................ 4-16
4.4.14 Monitor Mode ....................................................... 4-17
4.4.15 NMEA Operation ................................................... 4-18
4.4.16 DigitalSelective Calling(DSC) .............................. 4-19
4.4.16.1 IndividualShip Call (Ship-to-Ship) ................. 4-20
4.4.16.2 IndividualShore Call (Ship-to-Shore) ............. 4-23
4.4.16.3 ReceivingIndividual Ship’s Call ..................... 4-25
4.4.16.4 Transmittinga Group Call ............................... 4-26

vi
4.4.16.5 ReceivingGroup Call ...................................... 4-28
4.4.16.6 TransmittingAll Ships Call ............................. 4-29
4.4.16.7 ReceivingAll ShipsCall .................................. 4-30
4.4.16.8 Transmitting a Distress Call ............................ 4-30
4.4.16.9 Receiving a Distress Call ................................ 4-34
4.4.16.10 Receiving Distress Relay Call ......................... 4-35
4.4.16.11 Using the DSC Log ......................................... 4-36
4.5 Menu Operation .................................................................. 4-37
4.5.1 Selecting the Menu Operation............................... 4-37
4.5.2 NAVSTAT Operation ............................................. 4-38
4.5.3 DSCOperation ....................................................... 4-39
4.5.3.1 Selecting Distress CallType (NATURE) ......... 4-10
4.5.3.2 Manual Entry of Latitude/Longitude
(L/LENT) ........................................................ 4-41
4.5.3.3 Modifying the MMSI Number List
(PHNBOOK).................................................... 4-43
4.5.3.4 Modifying the MMSI Group Number
(GROUP) ......................................................... 4-48
4.5.4 Setting the MMSI Number .................................... 4-50
Section 5 Maintenance
5.1 How to Contact Raymarine ................................................... 5-1
5.2 Preventive Maintenance ....................................................... 5-3
5.3 Specifications ........................................................................ 5-3
5.4 Drawings ............................................................................... 5-7
Section6 Appendix
6.1 FCC LicensingRequirements ................................................ 6-1
6.2 Marine VHFChannel Usage Guide ....................................... 6-3
6.3 Marine VHF Channel FrequencyTables ............................. 6-12

vii
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
All Scan........................... Scans all channels
Canadian Channels ......... Channel designator as defined by Industry
Canada
CarrierWave ................... A Radio Frequency on which intelligence is
superimposed.
DSC ................................. Digital SelectiveCalling
Dual Watch ..................... Monitor the Priority Channel (9 or 16) while
working on another channel
Duplex ............................. Transmit and receive on different frequencies
FCC ................................. Federal CommunicationsCommission
FM .................................. Frequency Modulation
International Channels.... Channel designator as defined by the ITU
ITU.................................. International Telecommunications Union
LCD ................................. Liquid Crystal Display
Memory Scan .................. Scans only user selected memory channels
MMSI.............................. Maritime Mobile Service Identity; a number
issued by each country to identify maritime
stations.
NOAA............................. National Oceanographic andAtmospheric
Administration
PLL.................................. Phase Locked Loop (a type of frequency
synthesizer)
PTT switch...................... Microphone push-to-talk switch
RF.................................... Radio Frequency
RTCM.............................. RadioTechnicalCommission forMaritime
Services
RX ................................... Receiver
Simplex ............................ Transmit and receive on the same frequency
Squelch ........................... A circuit that sets the threshold for cutting off
the receiver when the signal is too weak for
reception of anything but noise
TX ................................... Transmit
Tri-Watch ........................ Monitor the Priority Channel and Weather
Channels while working on another channel
US Channels ................... Channel designations as defined by the FCC
VCO................................. Voltage ControlledOscillator
VHF ................................. VeryHighFrequency 30MHzto 300MHz
Weather Channels........... Channels for routine and emergency weather
information broadcast by NOAA

viii

1-1
General Description
Section 1 General Description
1.1 Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of Raymarine's RAY215 marine
radiotelephone. This handbook describes the physical and functional
characteristics of the radiotelephone.
The RAY215 is a microprocessor-controlled, digitally synthesized,
compact transceiver that provides reliable simplex and semi-duplex (two-
frequency) communications. The RAY215 provides two-way
communications on Marine channels and reception on 10 separate weather
channels. More importantly, the RAY215 has built-in Digital Selective
Calling (DSC) in accordance with RTCM standard SC-101 for sending
and receiving DSC Distress,All Ships, Individual Ship, and Group calls.
The RAY215 can transmit and receive on all available US, Canadian, and
International Marine VHF radiotelephone channels. There are channels
that are FCC approved but may only be used by authorized stations for
specific purposes, depending on the type of vessel (commercial or non-
commercial). Refer to the of Frequency Tables in Section 6, which list all
marine VHF channels available in your RAY215. You should familiarize
yourself with these tables to ensure proper channel usage.
1.2 Equipment Features
The RAY215 is designed and manufactured to provide ease of operation
with excellent reliability. The important built-in features of the equipment
are listed below.
• Built-in DSC in accordance with RTCM standard SC-101
• Exclusivecircuit that automaticallyselects 16or 9 asthe PriorityChannel
when the radio is turned on
• Dedicated key for changing the Priority Channel (16/9)
• Exclusive weather alert feature (when in monitor mode)
• Waterproof to CFR-46 standard for Fist Microphone and Base Station
• Waterproof to JIS-7 standard for Optional Full Function Handset
• Dedicated DISTRESS key on back of handset, with spring loaded
protective cover
• All Scan and Memory Scan features
• Dual/Tri-Watch Monitor modes
• Intercomoperation betweenFistMicrophone and OptionalFull Function
Handset (second station)

1-2 General Description
• Distant/local mode
• Oversized LCD
• All solid-state circuitry for low current drain and maximum reliability
• Series relay protection on input power circuits to prevent reverse polarity
damage
• High-performance receiver section with optimum selectivity
1.3 Microphone / Handset Options
The RAY215 can be operated with the standard Fist Microphone, an
optionalFull Function Handsetwith additional features, or both.Operation
with both units installed enables intercom capabilities between the two
stations.
The Fist Microphone features up/down channel select keys, Priority
Channel (16 or 9) selection button, plus a quick access DSC Distress key.
The optional Full Function Handset provides you with all the features of
the fist microphone plus a full alphanumeric keypad, expanded LCD
display,volume and squelchlevel controls, DSC distress callsthat describe
the type of distress, dedicated keys for Individual and All Ships DSC
calls,and expanded ship and shorephonebooks formaking DSCIndividual
calls.
Either unit can be located in a remote location using the optional Handset/
Microphone Relocation Kit.
The Single Station Full Function Handset with cradle (Raymarine part
number E46019) is used in lieu of the Fist Microphone. The Dual Station
Full Function Handset (Raymarine part number E46021), which includes
a cradle and external speaker, is used in conjunction with the Fist
Microphoneto enable intercomcommunications between thetwo stations.
Note: The RAY215 is designed to have the base station as the priority
unit. Therefore, Raymarine recommends installing the base station in the
radio operating room or the location from which the ship is normally
navigated. If an optional second station Full Function Handset is also
installed, that handset should be installed in the remote location.
See Section 3 for a complete discussion of operation using the Fist
Microphone. Section 4 describes using the RAY215 with the optional
Full Function Handset.

2-1
Installation
Section 2 Installation
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection
Use care when unpacking the unit from the shipping carton to prevent
damage to the contents. It is also good practice to save the carton and the
interiorpacking material in the eventyou mustreturn the unit to thefactory.
2.2 Equipment Supplied
The following is a list of materials supplied with the RAY215:
DescriptionDescription
DescriptionDescription
Description PP
PP
Part Noart No
art Noart No
art No.... .
RAY215 Radiotelephone E43003
Fist Microphone with Cradle & Hardware R49015
Power/Optional Speaker/NMEA Cable R49017
MountingYoke R49011
Yoke Knob R49012
Handbook, RAY215 R49013
Sun Cover R49014
2.2.1 Optional Accessories
The following is a list of options available for the RAY215:
DescriptionDescription
DescriptionDescription
Description PP
PP
Part Noart No
art Noart No
art No.... .
Single Station: E46019
Full Function Handset with Cradle
Second Station: E46021
Full Function Handset with Cradle
7 meter Handset Extension Cable
External Powered Handset Speaker
Handset/Microphone Relocation Kit E46026
5m Extension Cable, Full Function Handset E46018
10m Extension Cable, Full Function Handset E46017
3m Extension Cable, External Speaker E46015
External 10W Speaker E46006
Flush Mounting Kit E46023
8' FiberglassVHFAntenna M51118E

2-2 Installation
2.3 Planning the Installation
When planning the installation of your RAY215, the following conditions
should be considered to ensure dependable and trouble-free operation.
Mount the Base Station Transceiver using the Mounting Template
provided.
The Base Station Transceiver is designed to be mounted horizontally or
vertically on a flat bulkhead. Select a location that is non-metallic, dry,
protected, well-ventilated, and free from high operating temperatures and
excessive vibration. Provide sufficient space behind the transceiver to
allow for proper cable connections to the rear panel connectors. Locate
the transceiver as near as possible to the power source yet as far apart as
possible from any devices that may cause interference such as motors,
generators, and other on board electronics. The transceiver should be
protected from prolonged direct exposure to rain and salt spray.
The transceiver is NOT designed to be mounted in engine compartments.
DoNOT install thetransceiver in alocation where there may beflammable
vapors (such as in an engine room or compartment, or in a fuel tank bay),
watersplash orspray frombilges or hatches,where itis atrisk fromphysical
damage from heavy items (such as hatch covers, tool boxes, etc.), or where
it might be covered by other equipment. Locate the Base Station
Transceiver and Handset at least 3 feet from the antenna.
Safe Compass Distance is 1 meter for a common mechanical compass;
other compass types may require greater distances.To be sure, you should
locate the radio as far as possible from the compass. Test your compass to
verify proper operation while the radio is also operating.
Mount the base station transceiver to allow easy access from the location
where the ship is normally navigated.
2.3.1 Typical Mounting Methods
The RAY215 can be conveniently mounted on a chart table, bulkhead,
overhead, or any other desired location. Refer to Figure 2-1 for typical
mounting methods.
CAUTION
Make sure there are no hidden electrical wires or other items behind
the desired location before proceeding. Check that free access for
mounting and cabling is available.

2-3
Installation
Figure 2-1 Typical Mounting Methods
2.3.2 Flush Mounting
In addition to the typical Mounting Methods, the RAY215 may also be
flush mounted using the optional Flush Mount Kit. These kits are available
from your Raymarine dealer or our Customer Service Department.
There are two methods of mounting the radio using the flush mount kit:
from the front or rear of the console. Choose the method that best suits
your console.
1. Select the location for the radio transceiver. A clear, flat area, of
sufficient height having at least 9" of clear depth behind the panel is
required.
CAUTION
Make sure there are no hidden electrical wires or other items behind
the desired location before proceeding. Check that free access for
mounting and cabling is available.
2. Unpack the Flush Mount kit and confirm that all hardware is present.
3. Mark the cutout area using the cutout guide.
4. Drill a pilot hole inside of the cutout guide area.
5. Using an appropriate saw, carefully cut along the cutout line.
6. Remove the yoke knobs and the mounting yoke from the transceiver.
Check that the radio will fit into the cutout area.
Front Mounting
7. Insert the rear of the transceiver through the flush mount bracket such
that the tabs on the bracket point away from the radio’s front bezel.

2-4 Installation
8. Continue to push the bracket onto the transceiver until it is flush with
the front bezel.
9. On each side of the transceiver, insert a screw through the bracket tab
and into the threaded holes from which you removed the yoke knobs.
10.Tighten the screws.
11. It is recommended to run a bead of RTV or similar sealant around the
inside edge of the bracket to avoid water entry behind the console.
12.Insert the radio and attached bracket into the cutout.
13.Install four flat head screws through the four countersunk holes in the
front of the bracket and secure into the console.
14.From behind the console, connect the power/optional speaker and
antenna cables.
Rear Mounting
7. It is recommended to run a bead of RTV or similar sealant around the
inside edge of the bezel to avoid water entry behind the console.
8. Insert the radio into the cutout until the front bezel is flush with the
console.
9. From behind the console, push the flush mount bracket over the rear
of the transceiver such that the tabs on the bracket point away from
the radio’s front bezel.
10.Continue to push the bracket onto the transceiver until it is flush with
the console.
11. On each side of the transceiver, insert a screw through the bracket tab
and into the threaded holes from which you removed the yoke knobs
but do not fully tighten at this time.
12. Install four pan head screws through the four holes in the bracket and
secure the bracket into the console.
13. From the front, make sure the transceiver is still flush with the console.
14.From behind the console, fully tighten the screws that secure the bracket
to the radio’s threaded yoke knob holes.
15.Connect the power/optional speaker and antenna cables.

2-5
Installation
6.69 (170)
4.17 (106)
5.51 (140)
1 (25)
7.68 (195) 8.78 (223)
3.15 (80)
5.47 (139)
0.35 (9)
0.35 (9)
Figure 2-2 Outline and Mounting Dimensions
All dimensions are shown in inches and (millimeters)

2-6 Installation
Wire ColorWire Color
Wire ColorWire Color
Wire Color FunctionFunction
FunctionFunction
Function Connects toConnects to
Connects toConnects to
Connects to
RED Power + Ship's 13.6VDC power
BLACK Power −
YELLOW Speaker + External speaker
GREEN Speaker −
BLUE NMEA + Input from position source (GPS, etc.)
PURPLE NMEA −
The RED (+) power wire contains a 10 amp in-line fuse.
2.4 Electrical Connections
2.4.1DCPower andExternal SpeakerConnections
The 6-foot long power cable is a multi-purpose assembly containing three
wire-pairs for connections to DC power, NMEA input, and an optional
speaker. Connections to the 6-pin connector are as follows:
Figure 2-3 Power/External Speaker/NMEA Cable and 6 Pin Connector
In most cases the length of the power cable should be adequate enough to
reach the DC power source. If additional wire length is required, the cable
can be extended by adding more cable as necessary. However, for power
cable runs longer than 15 feet, larger wire diameter size should be used to
prevent voltage line loss.

2-7
Installation
Figure 2-4 Power Cable Length
Your RAY215 should be connected to the nearest primary source of ship's
DC power. A typical source may be a circuit breaker on the power panel
or a fuse block near the unit. When connecting to either of these sources,
the circuit breaker or other in-line fuse should be rated at 10 amps.
It is recommended that lugs be used to connect the power cable to the DC
supply and the lug connections should be both crimped and soldered.
This is very important in order to ensure adequate current draw to the
equipment. Intermittent operation may result if an insufficient connection
is made to the power source. The connection terminal should be clean,
with no sign of corrosion.
The red (+) wire is connected to the positive terminal of the power source.
The black (-) wire is connected to the negative (ground) of the power
source. Should the power connections be inadvertently reversed, the unit
will not power up but no damage will occur. Check the polarity with a
VOM (Voltage/Ohm Meter) and reconnect observing correct polarity. If
the fuse ever needs replacement, be sure to use the same type and rating.
2.4.2 External Speaker Connections
Theyellow (+) wireand green(-) wire are used forconnecting the RAY215
to an external speaker (see Figure 2-3), such as Raymarine’s 10W External
Speaker (part number E46006).
Four watts of audio output power are provided for an external 4-ohm
speaker.Asuitable speaker can bepurchased fromyour localmarine dealer.
Connect the yellow (+) wire and green (-) wire to the speaker observing
polarity as it is marked on the speaker. When connected, the external
speaker will function simultaneously with the internal speaker.
CAUTION: DO NOT short the green (-) wire to the yellow (+) wire.
DO NOT short the green (-) wire to the black Power (-) wire.