Simrad RT62 User manual

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Instruction Manual
III
Simrad RT62/RT64
Fixed VHF Radio
MANUAL

RT62 & RT64
IV E04074 Iss 1.2 22/11/01 MDL
The technical data, information and illustrations contained in this publication were to the best of our knowledge correct at the time of
going to print. We reserve the right to change specifications, equipment, installation and maintenance instructions without notice as
part of our policy of continuous development and improvement.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, electronic or otherwise without
prior permission from Simrad Ltd.
No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions in the publication, although every care has been taken to make it as com-
plete and accurate as possible.
© 2001 Simrad Ltd

CONTENTS
1. GENERAL
1.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.2 RT62 and RT64 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.3 Licensing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2. OPERATION
2.1 Location of Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.2 Operation - Scanning Versions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.2.1 Function (F) / Backlight ( ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.2.2 Power (1/25) / Channel Memory (M+) . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.2.3 Dual Watch (D/W) / Channel Inhibit ( )
+ Revert function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2.2.4 Triwatch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
2.2.5 Scan (SCN) / Memory Scan (MS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
2.2.6 Channel 16 (16) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
2.2.7 Squelch (Sq) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
2.2.8 Volume, On/Off (Vol) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
2.2.9 Channel Select (Ch) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
2.2.10 User Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
2.3 Operation - Non-scanning Versions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
2.3.1 Backlight ( ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
2.3.2 User Channel (U) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
2.4 Memory Mode (Scanning versions only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
2.5 Second Channel Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
2.6 Speaker Mute (Handset models only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
2.7 Fistmike Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
2.7.1 User Programmable Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
3. INSTALLATION
3.1 VHF Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
3.2 Electrical Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
3.3 Antenna Installation Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
3.4 Electrical Interference Suppression . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
4. APPENDIX
4.1 Optional Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
4.2 Transmission Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
4.3 Frequency of Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
4.4 Fault Finding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
4.5 Technical Specification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
4.6 Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
4.7 Service & Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Instruction Manual
V

1 GENERAL
1.1Introduction
The RT62 and RT64 fixed VHF radios are designed by Simrad
and manufactured at our modern factory facility in the UK.
The radio is designed to meet or exceed stringent International
Regulations including ETS300-162 and EN301-025.
The RT62 and RT64 are robustly constructed using a pressure
die cast aluminium case for effective heat dissipation, ensuring
maximum transmission performance even after many hours
constant use.
Please note that VHF regulations vary from country to country.
Simrad sets are approved specifically by the countries in which
they are sold and consequently there may be differences in the
programming of sets bought in different countries. If using
outside the country of purchase, it is vital to check that the set
conforms to local regulations before use.
Thank you for choosing Simrad
If you are pleased with your VHF we hope you will be interest-
ed in our range of marine electronic equipment, which is man-
ufactured to the same high standards as the RT62/64. Please
contact your nearest Simrad Agent for a catalogue showing our
increasing range of high tech navigational instruments, GPS,
autopilots, Radar, Fishfinders and VHF radio sets.
Simrad operate a policy of continual development and reserve
the right to alter and improve the specification of their prod-
ucts without notice.
RT62 & RT64
6E04074
Fig 1.1 - RT62 & RT64 Waterproof Fixed VHF

1.2 RT62 and RT64
Both the RT62 and RT64 are available with either a fistmike or
telephone handset, and offer the same features. The details in
this owner’s manual apply to both models.
The RT64 features a second watchkeeping receiver, allowing it
to use the Digital Selective Calling (DSC) system on VHF chan-
nel 70. For this the RT64 will need to be linked to the Simrad
Class D DSC control unit DSC1400.
NOTE The RT62 is only available for applications that do not require
DSC functions.
This manual describes all operating features available to the
RT62 and RT64, including channel scan which is not permitted
in certain countries. Therefore this feature may not be avail-
able on the set supplied if it was purchased or configured for
one of these countries.
1.3 Licensing
NOTE Prior to use check the national licensing requirements for the
operator.
In the UK license applications and queries should be made to -
Ship Radio Licensing
Radio Licensing Centre
The Post Office
PO Box 1495
Bristol
BS99 3QS
A set may only be operated by, or under the supervision of a
holder of a Certificate of Competence and Authority to
Operate. This involves a simple examination and an annual
license renewal fee. For details contact -
Royal Yachting Association
RYA House
Romsey Road
Eastleigh
Hants, SO5 4YA
Holders of the Restricted Certificate of Competence in Radio-
telephony (which covers MF/HF SSB etc), do not need a sepa-
rate VHF certificate.
In all other countries, please contact your regional authority for
information.
Instruction Manual
7
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2 OPERATION
2.1 Location of Controls
The RT62 and RT64 VHFs are very simple to operate, using
only five buttons and three rotary knobs to access a variety of
functions. The functions available will depend on whether the
radio is a scanning or non-scanning version (scanning func-
tions are not permitted in certain countries).
Control Legend Primary function Secondary function
1F/Used to access secondary functions* Switch backlighting on/off
2 1/25 Select transmit power (1w / 25w) Enter selected channel into memory*
3D/WDual Watch Inhibit channel from scan*
4 SCN/P Scan all channels* / Select working channel† Scan channels in memory sequentially*
5 16 Select channel 16
6 Sq Squelch adjust
7 Vol On–off / Volume adjust
8 Ch Channel select knob
* Scanning versions only † Non-scanning versions only
RT62 & RT64
8E04074
Fig 2.1 - Control functions
1267
345 8
1267
345 8
Scanning
version
Non-scanning
version

2.2 Operation - Scanning Versions
The radio is switched on using the volume knob. The VHF
starts up automatically on channel 16* at maximum power
(25w). *This can be changed - contact Simrad Agent for details
2.2.1 Function (F) / Backlight ( )
NOTE - Secondary functions are only available on scanning versions of
the VHF.
Several of the keys have secondary functions in addition to the
main function. These are accessed by pressing F, then the
appropriate key within two seconds (do not hold the Fkey
down). When Fis pressed, the F legend will appear on the
LCD for the two seconds it is active. Pressing another key
within this time will access its second function.
Backlighting
The LCD backlighting is switched on and off as a secondary
function of the Fkey. To turn the backlighting on/off press F
twice (Fig 2.2). If the Fkey is held down the second press, the
lighting will step through five brightness levels. Release the
key when the desired lighting level is reached.
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9
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PRESSED TWICE
Fig 2.2 - Switching backlighting on

2.2.2 Power (1/25) / Channel Memory (M+)
Although the radio has a maximum transmit power of 25
watts, this is not always necessary if communicating with a sta-
tion or vessel that is very close. To reduce power consumption,
the transmit power can be reduced to 1 watt. This key operates
as a toggle, switching between 1w and 25w (Fig 2.3).
NOTE - Some channels are restricted to 1w transmit power. The radio
is programmed to switch to low power automatically when one
of these channels is selected
RT62 & RT64
10 E04074
Channel Memory function
This will add the currently selected channel into the Scan
Memory. Press Fthen 1/25 - the LCD display will show ENT
indicating that the channel has been entered into the Scan
Memory. Pressing Fthen 1/25 if the channel is already in the
memory will remove it - indicated by DEL appearing on the
bottom line of the LCD display.
Fig 2.3 - Selecting transmission power (1/25W)
1W
25W

2.2.3 Dual Watch (D/W) / Channel Inhibit ( ) +
Revert function
Dual Watch enables the radio to scan between the selected
channel and the priority channel (normally Ch16). To activate
Dual Watch Mode, select the channel and press D/W - the D/W
legend will be displayed on the LCD.
NOTE The channel cannot be changed and transmission is inhibited
while in Dual Watch mode. To restore normal operation, either
press D/W, 16 or rotate the channel select knob anticlockwise.
Inhibit Function
Since the Scan function locks onto channels where a signal is
detected, it will lock onto a channel with a lot of interference
noise, or transmitting a continuous carrier wave signal, pre-
venting the radio from continuing the scan. The Inhibit func-
tion allows channels to be removed from the Scan sweep.
Pressing Fthen D/W ( ) will inhibit the selected channel -
indicated by INH appearing on the bottom line of the display
(Fig 2.4). Pressing Fthen D/W ( ) if the channel is already in
inhibited will restore it to the Scan - indicated by ENA appear-
ing on the bottom line of the display.
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11
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Fig 2.4 - Inhibiting channel from Scan

REVERT Function
If D/W is pressed when CH16 is selected, the VHF will revert
to the previously selected channel.
2.2.4 Triwatch
The Triwatch function is similar to Dual Watch, but this scans
between the selected working channel, the User channel and
the Priority channel. To set the User channel, refer to section
2.2.10 .
To enter Triwatch mode, press and hold the D/W key for 2 sec-
onds. The “D/W” legend and “tRI”will be displayed on the
LCD. To exit Triwatch, press the D/W key or turn the channel
selector anti clockwise.
2.2.5 Scan (SCN) / Memory Scan (MS)
This function scans through each channel sequentially until a
signal is detected above the squelch level set. Once the signal
ends or drops below the squelch level, the radio will continue
scanning. Press SCN to enter scan mode. The LCD will show
SCAN (Fig 2.5).
RT62 & RT64
12 E04074
NOTE The channel cannot be changed and transmission is inhibited
while in Scan mode. To restore normal operation, either
press SCN, 16 or rotate the channel select knob anticlockwise.
If the scan has stopped on a busy channel, rotating the channel
selector clockwise will move the scan sweep on to the next
channel.
Memory Scan (F then SCN)
This operates in the same way as the Scan function, except that
it will only scan channels that have been entered into the Scan
Memory. If no channels have been entered into the memory
then this function will not be available (refer to section 2.2.2).
Fig 2.5 - Entering Scan mode
SCAN

2.2.6 Channel 16 (16)
Will automatically select Channel 16 on High Power when
pressed. Any function active (Dual Watch, Scanning etc) will
be cancelled.
2.2.7 Squelch (Sq)
This knob is used to adjust the receiver muting threshold
(squelch) level. To cut out weaker signals, increase the squelch
until the background interference noise disappears. To receive
weaker signals, decrease the squelch.
2.2.8 Volume, On/Off (Vol)
The radio is switched on by turning the volume knob clock-
wise. To increase the volume, turn the knob further clockwise.
To reduce the volume, turn the knob anticlockwise. Turn the
knob fully anticlockwise to switch off.
2.2.9 Channel Select (Ch)
The VHF features a rotary channel selector. Rotate the knob
clockwise to scroll up through the available channels, anticlock-
wise to scroll down (Fig 2.6).
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Fig 2.6 - Changing channels

2.3.1 Backlight ( )
On non-scanning versions of the radio the Fkey is replaced
with a backlighting key . Turning the backlighting on and
off requires only a single press of the key. Press and hold
the key when switching the backlight on to step through the
five lighting levels and release when the desired lighting level
is reached.
2.3.2 User Channel (P)
This function allows a user selectable personal channel to be
programmed. Select the channel, then press and hold P.
Initially the display will show the previously selected channel,
but after 2 seconds the display will show the new channel and
USE will appear on the bottom line of the display - the button
may now be released. The User channel can now be directly
accessed by pressing P.
2.2.10 User Channel (F then 16)
This function allows a user selectable personal channel to be
programmed. Select the channel, press Fthen press and hold
16. Initially the display will show the previously selected user
channel, but after 2 seconds the new user channel will be
shown and USE will appear on the bottom line of the display -
the button may now be released.
This channel can now be accessed by pressing Fthen 16.
2.3 Operation - Non-scanning Versions
In countries where scanning radios are not permitted, the sec-
ondary functions listed are not available (Fig 2.7).
The primary functions are the same with these exceptions -
RT62 & RT64
14 E04074
Fig 2.7 - Controls – non-scanning versions

Instruction Manual
15
E04074
POWER ON
Fig 2.8 - Selecting secondary channel set
2.4Memory Mode
This function is only available on scanning versions of the
VHF. It allows the radio to operate using only the channels
programmed into the channel memory. Press Fthen press
SCN, holding down for 2 seconds. Rotating the channel select
knob will then only select the channels programmed into the
memory. To disable this mode and return to normal operation,
either switch the radio off and on again, or press 16.
This mode will only be available if there are channels pro-
grammed into the memory (see section 2.2.2).
2.5 Second Channel Mode
In countries where it is permitted, holding F/ down while
turning the radio on will enable the radio to operate on a sec-
ondary set of channels - normally the USA channels (Fig 2.8).
The display will show USA for USA channels, CAN for
Canadian channels etc. Channel sets available will vary
depending on which country the radio is programmed for use

in. Please enquire with your national licensing authority for
details of permitted channel sets.
The radio will revert to normal operation if it is switched off
then on again.
2.6 Speaker Mute
On models fitted with a telephone handset, lifting the handset
from the cradle will normally mute the front panel loudspeaker
automatically.
If required, this function can be disabled by holding down
D/W while turning the radio on (Fig 2.9). The loudspeaker will
subsequently remain on when the handset is lifted.
As this setting is stored in the radio’s non-volatile memory it
will be remembered even if the radio is totally disconnected
from the power. To restore speaker muting, hold down D/W
again while turning the power on.
RT62 & RT64
16 E04074
POWER ON
Fig 2.9 - Disabling speaker mute (handset versions only)

Instruction Manual
17
E04074
2.7 Fistmike Operation
The RT62 and RT64 radios are available with either a telephone
handset or fistmike. The fistmike incorporates three buttons
which allows the user to remotely control some functions of
the radio (Fig 2.10).
The keys marked and are channel up and down keys. To
move the selected channel up press the key, to move the
selected channel down press .
The centre key is user programmable (see section 2.7.1) and it
can be set to activate one of the following functions -
• Backlight on/off
• Dual Watch
• User channel
• 1/25W
NOTE The RT62 and RT64 cannot be used in conjunction with the
FTM6 fistmike or THS5 telephone handset as used on the pre-
vious RT1200 and RT1400 VHF radios manufactured by
Simrad. If ordering a replacement fistmike of handset, ensure
that the correct part number is ordered (see section 4.1).
Fig 2.10 - Fistmike controls
Channel Up
User Key
Channel Down

2.7.1 User Programmable Key
To program the user key function, turn the radio off, then press
and hold the user key on the fistmike while switching the radio
on (Fig 2.11) - the display on the radio will show UP (User
Programming).
RT62 & RT64
18 E04074
Fig 2.11 - Programming the user key to activate Dual Watch
Press and hold
while switching
the radio on
• To select backlight, press F( on non scan versions)
• To select Dual Watch, press D/W
• To select the User Channel, press 16 (P- non scan versions)
• To select 1/25W, press 1/25
When the function has been programmed, the display will
show OK The radio should then be turned off - when it is
switched on again the radio will return to normal operation
with the fistmike user key programmed as specified.
NOTE The default setting for the fistmike user key is select User
Channel.
F
16
1/25
D/W
SCN
M+
MS

3 INSTALLATION
3.1 VHF Installation
The radio should be sited so that engine noise and vibration or
other background noise do not make it difficult for the operator
to hear.
Although the RT62/RT64 radio is waterproof when flush
mounted, it is recommended that it is not installed where it
will be exposed to continuous direct sunlight, as this will even-
tually damage the LCD display.
As microphones and loudspeakers contain powerful magnets,
the radio should not be installed within 1m (3ft 3in) of any
compasses, whether magnetic or electronic.
The fins on the back of the case act as a heatsink to dissipate
heat generated by the set when in use, which maintains the
high efficiency of the radio. The free circulation of air is essen-
tial - if mounting the radio in an enclosed space, ensure that the
space is vented.
The VHF is supplied with a reversible mounting bracket. This
can be used to mount the VHF on the chart table or on an over-
head bulkhead (Fig 3.1). The bracket is fixed in place using
four No.10x3⁄4 screws (supplied). Before installing, ensure that
there is at least 88mm (3.5 in) vertical clearance and 70mm
(2.8in) horizontal clearance behind the bracket to allow the
radio to fit (Fig 3.2).
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19
E04074
Fig 3.1 - Standard mounting
options
Desktop mounting
Overhead mounting
Fig 3.2 - Minimum clearance required
100mm (3.9in)
88mm (3.5in)

The radio is fixed to the bracket using a simple clamp arrange-
ment. The peg on the left side of the radio is slotted into the
hole in the bracket. The clamp on the right side of the radio
can then be slid into the slotted aperture on the bracket and
tightened to hold the radio firmly in place (Fig 3.3). The rake
angle of the radio can be adjusted by slackening the clamp.
RT62 & RT64
20 E04074
F
16
1/25
D/W
SCN
1. Fit locating peg (left side) into hole in bracket
2. Slide locking clamp (right) into slot in bracket
3. Tighten clamp
Fig 3.3 - Fixing VHF to bracket
1
2
3
An alternative mounting method is to use the flush mounting
kit FMB1000BK (supplied separately). This allows the radio to
be neatly installed inside a bulkhead, so that only the fascia of
the radio is visible. For more details of this and other acces-
sories available, please refer to section 4.1.