Standard Horizon HX600S User manual

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IC ID: 511B-30193X20
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Congratulations on your purchase of the HX600S! Whether this is your first portable marine
VHF transceiver, or if you have other STANDARD HORIZON equipment, the STANDARD
HORIZON organization is committed to ensuring your enjoyment of this high performance
transceiver, which should provide you with many years of satisfying communications even
in the harshest of environments. STANDARD HORIZON technical support personnel
stands behind every product sold, and we invite you to contact us should you require
technical advice or assistance.
We appreciate your purchase of the HX600S, and encourage you to read this manual
thoroughly, so as to learn and fully understand the capabilities of the HX600S.
WARNING
This radio is capable of transmitting on VHF Marine.
The FCC allows the use of VHF Marine band on water areas only. However the FCC does
not allow the use of the VHF Marine band when on land. If persons use the VHF Marine
Band on land and interfere with others communicating, the FCC will be notified and search
for the interference. Responsible parties found to be transmitting on the VHF Marine Band
on land could be fined up to $10,000 for the first offense.
The FCC does however prohibit the use in aircraft.

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SAFETY TRANING INFORMATION
This Radio has been tested and complies with the Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) RF exposure limits for Occupational Use/Controlled exposure environment. In
addition, it complies with the following Standards and Guidelines:
- FCC 96-326, Guidelines for Evaluating the Environmental Effects of Radio-Frequency
Radiation.
- FCC OET Bulletin 65 Edition 97-01 (1997) Supplement C, Evaluating Compliance with
FCC Guidelines for Human Exposure to Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Fields.
- ANSI/IEEE C95.1-1992, IEEE Standard for Safety Levels with Respect to Human
Exposure to Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Fields, 3kHz to 300 GHz.
- ANSI/IEEE C95.3-1992, IEEE Recommended Practice for the Measurement of Potentially
Hazardous Electromagnetic Fields-RF and Microwave.
WARNING:
This radio generates RF electromagnetic energy during transmit mode. This radio is
designed for and classified as Occupational Use Only, meaning it must be used only
during the course of employment by individuals aware of the hazards, and the ways to
minimize such hazards. This radio is not intended for use by the General Population in an
uncontrolled environment.
CAUTION:
To ensure that your expose to RF electromagnetic energy is within the FCC allowable limits
for occupational use, always adhere to the following guidelines:
- This radio is NOT approved for use by the general population in an uncontrolled
environment. This radio is restricted to occupational use, work related operations
only where the radio operator must have the knowledge to control its RF exposure
conditions.
- When transmitting, hold the radio in a vertical position with its microphone 1 to 2
inches (2.5 to 5 cm) away from your mouth and keep the antenna at least 1 inch
(2.5cm) away from your head and body.
- The radio must be used with a maximum operating duty cycle not exceeding 50 %, in
typical Push-to-Talk (PTT) configurations.
DO NOT transmit for more than 50 % of total radio use time (50 % duty cycle). Transmitting
more than 50 % of the time can cause FCC RF exposure compliance requirements to be
exceeded.
The radio is transmitting when the red LED on the top of the radio is illuminated. You can
cause the radio to transmit by pressing the PTT button.
- DO NOT transmit when the radio is used in Body Worn configuration with the following

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accessory: belt-clip.
It must be used ONLY for (1) there is a 4 cm distance from the body during transmitting, (2)
monitoring purposes, using the speaker only and (3) for carrying purposes.
- Always use VERTEX STANDARD authorized accessories.
The information listed above provides the user with the information needed to make him or
her aware of RF exposure, and what to do to assure that this radio operates with the FCC
RF exposure limits of this radio.
Electromagnetic Interference/Compatibility
During transmissions, this radio generates RF energy that can possibly cause interference
with other devices or systems. To avoid such interference, turn off the radio in areas where
signs are posted to do so.
Do not operate the transmitter in areas that are sensitive to electromagnetic radiation such
as hospitals, health care facilities, aircraft, and blasting sites.
NOTE
This radiotelephone complies with the requirements of RTCM Paper 56-95/SC101
Standards for digital selective calling (DSC) for Marine transceivers.
FCC AND CANADA RADIO LICENSE INFORMATION
Standard Horizon radios comply with the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) and
Industry-Canada requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Service.
MARITIME STATION LICENSE
An FCC ship station license is no longer required for any vessel traveling in U.S. waters
which uses a VHF marine radio, RADAR or EPIRB, and which is not required to carry radio
equipment. However, any vessel required to carry a marine radio on an international
voyage, carrying a HF single side band radiotelephone or marine satellite terminal. FCC
license forms, including applications for ship (506) and land station licenses can be
downloaded via the Internet at www.fcc.gov/forms. To obtain a form from the FCC, call
[phone].
MARINE RADIO CALL SIGN
Currently the FCC does not require recreational boaters to have a Ship Radio Station
License. The USCG recommends the boats registration number and the state to be used.

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CANADIAN SHIP STATION LICENSING
You may need a license when traveling in Canada. If you do need a license contact their
nearest field office or regional office or write:
Industry Canada
Radio Regulatory Branch
Attn: DOSP
300 Slater Street
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada, KIA 0C8
FCC/INDUSTRY CANADA INFORMATON
The following data pertaining to the transceiver is necessary to fill out the license
application.
FCC Type Accepted: Part 80
Output Power with FNB-83: 1 W (Low), 2.5 W (Mid), and 5 W (High)
Emission: 16K0G3E, 16K0G2B
Frequency Range: 156.025 to 163.275MHz
FCC Type Number: K6630193X20
Industry Canada Type Approval: 511B-30193X20
FCC NOTICE
Unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment may void compliance with FCC
Rules. Any change or modification must be approved in writing by STANDARD HORIZON,
a Marine Division of VERTEX STANDARD.
NOTICE
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
 Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
 Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected.
 Consult the dealer or an experienced marine electronics technician for help.

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1. GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 INTRODUCTION
The HX600S is a SUBMERSIBLE miniature 5-Watt portable two way marine transceiver.
The transceiver has all allocated USA, International, or Canadian channels. It has
emergency channel 16 which can be immediately selected from any channel by pressing
the [16/9] key. NOAA Weather channels can also be accessed immediately by pressing the
[WX] key. In addition to these functions the HX600S can transmit a Digital Selective
Distress Call with Latitude/Longitude when a GPS is connected to the CD-33 Cradle
Charger.
Besides VHF marine transceiver operation, the HX600S provides FM / AM broadcast bands,
and AM aircraft bands.
The HX600S includes the following features: Memory Scanning, Priority Scanning, NOAA
Weather Alert, Battery Saver, easy-to-read large LCD display, EEPROM memory back-up,
Battery Life displayed on LCD, and a transmit Time-Out Timer (TOT).
In the marine band, the transmitter provides a maximum of 5 Watts output, and has the
selection of 2.5 Watts and 1 Watt to assist the user in ensuring maximum battery life.
The optional FVP-31 Voice Scrambler can be installed to permit secure voice
communications with other Standard Horizon radios with the FVP-31 or CVS2500
scramblers installed.
2. ACCESSORIES
2.1 PACKING LIST
When the package containing the transceiver is first opened, please check it for the
following contents:
 HX600S Transceiver
 FNB-83 7.2 V, 1400 mAh Ni-MH Battery Pack
 CD-33 Charger Cradle for HX600S
 NC-88B 120VAC Wall Charger for CD-33
 E-DC-19A DC Cable with 12 V Cigarette Lighter Plug for CD-33
 Belt Clip
 Lanyard
 Owner’s Manual
2.2 OPTIONS
1 CMP460 Noise-canceling Waterproof Speaker/Microphone
2 MH-57A4B Mini Speaker/Microphone

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3 VC-24 VOX Headset
4 FVP-31 Voice Scrambler
5 FBA-25A Alkaline Battery Case
6 FNB-83 7.2 V, 1400 mAh Ni-MH Battery Pack
7 E-DC-19A DC Cable with 12 V Cigarette Lighter Plug
8 NC-88C 230-240 VAC Wall Charger for the FNB-83
9 E-DC-6 DC Cable; plug and wire only
Note: Before operating the HX600S for the first time, it is recommended that the battery be
charged. Please see section 4.1.4 “USING THE CD-33 CHARGER CRADLE” for details.
3. ABOUT THIS RADIO
3.1 ABOUT THE VHF MARINE BAND
WARNING:
The radio frequencies used in the VHF marine band lie between 156 and 158 MHz with
NOAA Weather stations available between 161 and 163 MHz. The marine VHF band
provides communications over distances that are essentially “Line of sight” Actual
transmission range depends much more on antenna type, gain and height than on the
power output of the transmitter. On a fixed mount 25W radio transmission expected
distances can be greater than 15 miles, for a portable 5W radio transmission the expected
distance can be greater than 5 miles in “Line of sight.”
The user of a Marine VHF radio is subject to severe fines if the radio is used on land. The
reasoning for this is you may be near an inland waterway, or propagation anomalies may
cause your transmission to be heard in a waterway. If this occurs, depending upon the
marine VHF channel on which you are transmitting, you could interfere with a search and
rescue case, or contribute to a collision between passing ships. For VHF Marine channel
assignments refer to page 47 section 16.
3.2 ABOUT RECEIVE ONLY CHANNELS and FREQUENCIES
AM/FM Broadcast Bands
The AM/FM bands contained within the HX600S are the same channels you use every day
to listen to music, news and commentary with your car or home stereo.
The AM broadcast band currently extends from 500 to 1800 kHz. Channels are spaced in
even 10 kHz increments; i.e.: 500, 510, 520, ... , 1600 kHz in the United States and Canada.
Elsewhere, channels are spaced in 9 kHz increments, i.e.: 531, 540, 549, etc.

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The FM broadcast band in the United States extends from 88 to 108 MHz. Channels are
assigned at 100 kHz increments; i.e.: 88.1, 88.2, 88.3, ... , 107.9. The channels from 88.1 to
91.9 are reserved for noncommercial educational stations. Outside the United States and
Canada, the boundaries and channel spacing vary. In Japan, the band starts at 76 MHz. In
Western Europe, the band generally runs from 88-108 MHz, but channels can be irregularly
spaced, i.e.: 101.25 MHz.
AIR (Aircraft) Bands
The AM VHF aeronautical communications band lies between 108.000 MHz and 136.975
MHz. This frequency spectrum can be divided into a lower and upper range. The lower
range between 108.000 MHz and 118.000 MHz is primarily used for navigational aids such
as the ILS - Instrument Landing Systems, DME - Distance Measuring Equipment, and
VOR’s - Very High Frequency Omni Range. The lower range offers very little in the way of
voice communications, it does however provide someone with a working knowledge of
Morse code the opportunity to identify various beacons. The upper range of the
aeronautical band 118.000 MHz to 136.975 MHz is where the majority of voice
communications can be monitored. Communications in the VHF band are transmitted in AM
mode and most if not all compatible receivers automatically default to this mode.
Frequencies within the aeronautical range are spaced in increments of 25 kHz, as such you
will find transmissions at 118.000, 118.025, 118.050 MHz etc.
The frequency(s) you monitor will determine the nature of traffic you will hear. As previously
mentioned frequencies in the lower range of the aeronautical band are mostly occupied by
navigational equipment and transmit non voice signals in Morse code. If you select a
frequency in the upper range the air is suddenly filled with conversations between pilots
and air traffic controllers, pilots and their company dispatchers, flight service stations, and
ATIS broadcasts. Frequencies within the aeronautical band are designated according to
their usage.
Refer to the page 23 for operation.
AIR (Aircraft) BAND FREQUENCY CHART
Frequency Range Communications Usage
108.000 - 117.975 MHz Navigational Aids
118.000 - 121.400 MHz Control Towers
121.500 MHz Int’l Distress Frequency
121.600 - 122.900 MHz Ground & Apron Control
122.700 - 123.900 MHz UNICOM Frequencies
123.450 MHz Air to Air / Pilot chit chat
124.000 - 128.800 MHz Arrivals & Departures
128.825 - 132.000 MHz Company Operations

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132.000 - 135.975 MHz Area Control Centre (Enroute)
136.000 - 136.975 MHz Shared ATC/Company Ops & DataLink
4. GETTING STARTED
If the radio has never been used, or its charge is depleted, it may be charged by connecting
the CD-33 Charger Cradle with the NC-88 battery charger, as shown in the illustration. If
12V DC power is available, the optional E-DC-19A DC Cable with 12 V Cigarette Lighter
Plug or the optional E-DC-6 DC Cable may be used for charging the battery. The NC-88,
E-DC-19A and E-DC-6 will charge a completely discharged FNB-83 battery pack in about
10 hours.
4.1 BATTERIES AND CHARGERS
The FNB-83 is a high performance Ni-MH battery providing high capacity in a compact
package.
CAUTION
To avoid risk of explosion and injury, FNB-83 battery pack should only be removed, charged
or recharged in non-hazardous environments.
4.1.1 BATTERY SAFETY
Battery packs for your transceiver contain Ni-MH batteries. This type of battery stores a
charge powerful enough to be dangerous if misused or abused, especially when removed
from the transceiver. Please observe the following precautions:
DO NOT SHORT BATTERY PACK TERMINALS: Shorting the terminals that power the
transceiver can cause sparks, severe overheating, burns, and battery cell damage. If the
short is of sufficient duration, it is possible to melt battery components. Do not place a loose
battery pack on or near metal surfaces or objects such as paper clips, keys, tools, etc.
When the battery pack is installed on the transceiver, the terminals that transfer current to
the transceiver are not exposed. The terminals that are exposed on the battery pack when
it is mounted on the transceiver are charging terminals only and do not constitute a hazard.
DO NOT INCINERATE: Do not dispose of any battery in a fire or incinerator. The heat of
fire may cause battery cells to explode and/or release dangerous gases.
Battery Maintenance
For safe and proper battery use, please observe the following:
 Battery packs should be charged only in non-hazardous environments;

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 Use only STANDARD HORIZON-approved batteries;
 Use only a STANDARD HORIZON, (a Marine Division of VERTEX STANDARD)
approved charger. The use of any other charger may cause permanent damage to the
battery.
 Follow charging instructions provided with the chargers.
 Keep the battery contacts clean.
Battery Storage
Store batteries in a cool place to maximize storage life. Since batteries are subject to
self-discharge, avoid high storage temperatures that cause large self-discharge rates. After
extended storage, a full recharge is recommended.
Battery Recycling
DO NOT PLACE USED BATTERIES IN YOUR REGULAR TRASH!
NI-MH BATTERIES MUST BE COLLECTED, RECYCLED OR DISPOSED OF IN AN
ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND MANNER.
The incineration, land filling or mixing of nickel-cadmium batteries with the municipal solid
waste stream is PROHIBITED BY LAW in most areas.
Return batteries to an approved Ni-MH battery recycler. This may be where you purchased
the battery.
Contact your local waste management officials for other information regarding the
environmentally sound collection, recycling and disposal of Ni-MH batteries.
4.1.2 BATTERY CHARGING
If the radio has never been used, or its charge is depleted, it may be charged by connecting
the CD-33 Charger Cradle with the NC-88 battery charger, as shown in the illustration. If
12V DC power is available, the optional E-DC-19A DC Cable with 12 V Cigarette Lighter
Plug or the optional E-DC-6 DC Cable may be used for charging the battery. The NC-88,
E-DC-19A and E-DC-6 will charge a completely discharged FNB-83 battery pack in about
10 hours.
4.1.3 BATTERY INSTALLATION/REMOVAL
1. Turn the transceiver off.
2. To install, insert the battery pack into the battery compartment on the back of the
transceiver, then close the Battery Pack Latch until it locks in place with a “click.”
3. To remove, open the Battery Pack Latch on the bottom of the transceiver, then slide

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the battery downward and out from the transceiver.
4.1.4 USING THE CD-33 CHARGER CRADLE
1. Turn the transceiver off.
2. Insert the DC plug from the NC-88 into the DC jack on the CD-33 rear panel, then plug
the NC-88 into the AC line outlet.
3. Insert the HX600S (with the battery pack) into the CD-33; the antenna should be at the
left side when viewing the charger from the front.
4. If the HX600S is inserted correctly, the Red “CHARGING” indicator will glow. A
fully-discharged pack will be charged completely in approximately 10 hours.
5. CONTROLS AND SWITCHES
NOTE
This section defines each control of the transceiver. For detailed operating instructions,
refer to section 6 “BASIC OPERATION.” Refer to illustrations for the location of the
following controls, switches, and connections.
POWER SWITCH/VOLUME CONTROL
Turns the transceiver on and off, and adjusts the volume.

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MIC/SP JACK
The jack accepts the optional CMP460 Speaker/Microphone, MH-57A4B Mini
Speaker/Microphone, or VC-24 VOX Headset. When this jack is used, the internal speaker
is disabled.
PUSH-TO-TALK (PTT) SWITCH
When pushed activates the transmitter of the selected band.
[BAND] KEY
Press to select the VHF Marine, FM Broadcast, AM Broadcast, and AIR (aircraft) bands.
[16/9] KEY
Immediately recalls channel 16 from any marine channel or band location. Holding down
this key recalls channel 9.
[WX] KEY
Immediately recalls the last-used NOAA Weather Channel from any channel location.
Recalls the previously- selected working channel when the [WX] key is pressed again.
Secondary use:
When the [16/9] key is held and the [WX] key is pressed, the radio will change the marine
channel between the USA, International, and Canadian channels.
[(UP)] KEY
Press to select a desired channel. Each press increases the channel number. When held
down, the channels increase continuously.
[(DOWN)] KEY
Press to select a desired channel. Each press decreases the channel number. When held
down, the channels decrease continuously.
NMEA TERMINAL
Connect to GPS receiver that outputs NMEA sentences GLL, GGA, GNS, and RMC via the
CD-33 Charger Cradle. Keep these terminals clean.
[SCAN] KEY

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Starts scanning and priority scanning of programmed channels. When scanning, press and
hold this key to turn on and off priority scan (P is shown on the left side of the display during
Priority scanning).
[PRESET] KEY
Immediately recalls one of up to 10 user preset memories for each band (shown as P0-P9
on the LCD). Pressing this key repeatedly scrolls through the preset memory channels.
[H/L] KEY
On the Marine Band, changes the transmitter output power between High (5 Watts),
Medium (2.5 Watts), and Low (1 Watt). Does not operate on “Low power only,” Marine
“transmission inhibit.”
[MEM] KEY
Press this key to memorize the selected channel for scanning. When pressed a “MEM” icon
will be shown on the LCD display indicating the channel has been saved to scan memory.
The scan memory is only used with the Marine and WX channels.
To delete the channel from scan memory, select the channel and press this key until “MEM”
is removed from the display.
BUSY/TX INDICATOR
This indicator illuminates different colors depending on the band that is selected. The chart
to the right shows the colors illuminated with the Squelch open or a signal is received. This
indicator glows red during transmit.
BAND COLOR
MARINE Blue
AM/FM/AIR Marine Blue
[DISTRESS] KEY
When radio is programmed with a MMSI and this key is pressed once and pressed and
held again for 3 seconds the radio will transmit a DSC Distress Call. To send the distress
call, see section 7.9 “DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING.”
6. BASIC OPERATION
6.1 INITIAL SETUP

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1. Install the belt clip on the transceiver according to the description in the box below, if
desired.
2. Install the nylon carrying strap on the belt clip, if desired.
3. Install the battery pack on the transceiver (see section 4.1.3 “BATTERY
INSTALLATION/REMOVAL”).
NOTE: Water resistance of the transceiver is assured only when the battery pack is
attached to the transceiver and MIC/SP rubber cap is installed in the MIC/SP jack.
6.2 RECEPTION
1. Press and hold the POWER SWITCH to turn the transceiver on.
2. Turn up the VOLUME CONTROL knob until the noise or audio from the speaker is at a
comfortable level.
3. Select the desired operating band among the VHF Marine band, FM band, AM band,
and AIR band by pressing the [BAND] key repetitively to switch between the bands.
4. Press the [] or [] key to select a channel or frequency that has no signal being
received (no one is transmitting on the channel)
5. Press the [SCAN] key momentarily; the HX600S will begin scanning toward a higher
channel or frequency and will stop when it receives a signal strong enough to break
through the squelch threshold. Press the [SCAN] key momentarily to channel the
scanning. Refer to section 7.2 for programming channels into scan memory.
6. Please refer to section 16 for VHF Marine
6.3 TRANSMISSION
1. Perform steps 1 through 7 of the RECEPTION discussion above.
2. Before transmitting, monitor the channel and make sure it is clear.
THIS IS AN FCC REQUIREMENT!
3. For communications over short distances on the Marine band, press the [H/L] key until
“L” is displayed on the LCD. This indicates Low power (approximately 1 watt).
Note
Transmitting on 1 watt prolongs battery life. Low power (1 watt) should be selected
whenever possible.
4. If using Low power is not effective, select Medium power (2.5 watts) or High power (5
watts) by pressing the [H/L] key until “M” (Medium power) or “H” (High power) is
displayed.
5. When receiving a signal, wait until the incoming signal stops before transmitting. The

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transceiver cannot transmit and receive simultaneously.
6. Press the PTT (Push-To-Talk) switch to transmit. The “TX” indicator is displayed during
transmission.
7. Speak slowly and clearly into the microphone. Hold the microphone about 1/2 to 1 inch
away from your mouth.
8. When the transmission is finished, release the PTT switch.
For an overview of VHF Marine band operating procedures refer to section 3.
6.3.1 TRANSMIT TIME - OUT TIMER (TOT)
While the PTT switch is held down, transmission time is limited to 5 minutes. This prevents
prolonged (unintentional) transmissions. About 10 seconds before automatic transmitter
shutdown, a warning beep sounds from the speaker. The transceiver automatically
switches to the receiving mode, even if the PTT switch is held down. Before transmitting
again, the PTT switch must first be released, and then pressed again. This Time-Out-Timer
(TOT) prevents a continuous transmission that would result from an accidentally stuck PTT
switch.
6.4 NOAA WEATHER CHANNELS
1. To receive a NOAA weather broadcast, press the [WX] key. The transceiver changes to
the weather channel mode. This mode consists of a special preset memory bank
containing the NOAA weather channels.
2. The transceiver will be set to the last used NOAA weather channel. Press the [] or
[] key to change to other weather channels.
3. To exit from the weather channel mode, press the [WX] key. The transceiver will revert
to the channel you were using prior to switching to the weather channel mode.
6.4.1 NOAA WEATHER ALERT
In the event of extreme weather disturbances such as storms and hurricanes, NOAA
(National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) sends a “weather alert” consisting of a
1050 Hz tone, followed by weather reports on the weather channels. The transceiver is
capable of receiving this alert if the following is performed:
1. Program your area’s weather channels into the transceiver’s scan memory. Follow the
same procedure as for regular channels.
2. Press the [SCAN] key to start the scan.
3. The memorized weather channels are scanned along with the regular memorized
channels. Scanning will not stop on the (continuous) weather broadcast channels

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unless the weather alert tone is received.
4. When an alert is received on a weather channel, scanning stops and the transceiver
emits a beeping tone that will stay on for 5 minutes.
5. Press the [WX] key to listen to the Weather Alert.
6.5 PRESET CHANNELS (P0 ~ P9): INSTANT ACCESS
Ten user assigned channels can be programmed for instant access. Pressing the
[PRESET] key activates the user assigned channel bank. If the [PRESET] key is pressed
and no channels have been assigned, an alert beep will be emitted twice from the speaker.
The HX600S provides the ten Preset channel for each individual operating band (VHF
Marine, AM Broadcast, FM Broadcast and Air Band).
Programming
1. Select the desired band by pressing the [BAND] key.
2. Hold down the [PRESET] key, and press the [] or [] key (repeatedly, if necessary)
until the desired channel number or frequency is displayed.
3. With the desired number displayed, release the [PRESET] key.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to program the desired channels into Preset Channels “P1” ~
“P9.”
5. To delete a Preset Channel, hold down the [PRESET] key and press the [] or [] key
until the Preset Channel number to be deleted is displayed, then release the [PRESET]
key.
You may add an alpha-numeric name “Tag” to any desired Preset Channel; refer to CH
NAME SET item on the section 13 “MENU (“SET”) MODE.”
Operation
Pressing the [PRESET] key will toggle between Preset Channels “P0” - “P9” and the last
selected “regular” channel. Preset Channel “P0” is represented by “P0” to the left of the
channel number on the LCD, and preset channel “P1” is represented by “P1” and so forth.
Press the [SCAN] key while on any of the Preset Channels, the HX600S will begin
scanning the Preset Channels of the selected band.
6.6 ENABLING S.O.S STROBE OPERATION
The S.O.S. STROBE feature utilizes the high-intensity strobe LED on the front of the
HX600S as a visual distress beacon. When enabled, the LED blinks the
internationally-recognized Morse Code “S.O.S.” message (...---...) at a rate of 5 words per

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minute. This can be very useful in summoning help from rescuers who may not be able to
communicate with you via radio.
1. Hold down the [MEM] key while turning the radio on to activate the emergency S.O.S.
Strobe. Once the radio comes on, the BUSY/TX LED will flash the Morse Code S.O.S.
message repeatedly.
2. The S.O.S. strobe function is interrupted when a signal is received or if the squelch
control is turned so audio is heard from the speaker. and during transmission.
3. To disable the S.O.S. strobe function, turn the radio off and back on again.
7. ADVANCED OPERATION ON THE MARINE BAND
7.1 USA, CANADIAN, AND INTERNATIONAL CHANNELS
1. To change from US to Canadian or International Marine Channels, hold down the
[16/9] key and press the [WX] key. The band will change from USA, to International,
and to Canadian with each press.
2. “USA” appears on the LCD for the USA band, “CAN” appears for the Canadian band,
and “INTL” appears for the International band.
3. Refer to the marine channel charts in section 16 “VHF MARINE CHANNEL
ASSIGNMENTS” for allocated channels.
7.2 MEMORY SCAN
The HX600S can be programmed to scan channels from a minimum of 2 channels up to all
channels in the marine band. If an incoming signal is detected on one of the channels
during scan, the radio will pause on that channel, allowing you to listen to the incoming
transmission.
1. Select the desired channel to be included in the scan memory using the [] or [] key.
2. Press the [MEM] key to store the channel into the transceiver’s scan memory. “MEM”
will be displayed on the LCD.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for all the channels to be scanned.
4. To delete a channel from the transceiver’s scan memory, select the memorized
channel. Press the [MEM] key until “MEM” is removed from the display.
5. All channels programmed remain in the transceiver’s scan memory even if the power
is turned off. See section 11 “RESETTING THE TRANSCEIVER’S
MICROPROCESSOR” to clear all channels from the transceiver’s scan memory.
6. Adjust the SQUELCH CONTROL knob until background noise is eliminated.
7. To start scanning, press the [SCAN] key. The scan proceeds from the lowest to the
highest programmed channel and stops scanning when a transmission is received.

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Scanning will resume when the incoming signal disappears at the end of the
transmission. A small “SCAN” icon is shown on the center bottom of the display during
scanning.
8. To stop the scan, press the [SCAN] key.
7.3 PRIORITY SCAN
The priority scanning feature allows the radio to scan while also keeping watch on a
particularly important “priority channel.” The following channels can be set as the priority
channel: 16, 09, and MARINE Preset Channel.
1. To set the priority channel, hold down the [16/9] key and press the [MEM] key. The
channel will change from 16 to 09 to Preset Channels P0 through P9 with each press
of the [MEM] key. When the [16/9] key is released the displayed channel will be set as
the priority channel (the large “P” icon will appear at the right side of the channel
number).
2. For priority scanning, hold down the [SCAN] key during normal scanning. Scanning will
proceed between the memorized channels and the priority channel. The priority
channel will be scanned after each programmed channel. A small “PSCN” is shown on
the center bottom of the display during priority scanning.
3. As an example of priority scanning, let us say that marine channels 06, 07, and 08 are
memorized in the transceiver’s scan memory. Priority scanning will proceed in the
following sequence:
[CH06] ---> [Priority Channel] ---> [CH07] ---> [Priority Channel] --->
[CH08] ---> [Priority Channel] ---> [CH06] ---> [Priority Channel]..........
4. Even when the transceiver stops and listens to the signal of a programmed channel,
the transceiver will shift to a “dual watch” mode between this channel and the priority
channel. Therefore, your priority watching of the designated channel is not
compromised when the scanner has paused on an active channel.
5. Hold down the [SCAN] key to change the priority scanning to normal scanning, and
then press the [SCAN] key to stop the scan and return to normal operation.
7.5 EMERGENCY CHANNEL 16
1. To select the emergency channel, press the [16/9] key from any channel.
2. If you cannot contact anyone on channel 16, switch to another channel.
3. See section 10.1 “EMERGENCY (CHANNEL 16 USE)” for additional emergency
operating practices.
4. To recall the previously-used channel when you are finished on channel 16, press the

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[16/9] key again.
7.6 CHANNEL 9
Channel 9 is used as a hailing channel for initial, non-emergency contacts with other
vessels. Hold down the [16/9] key for 1 second to select channel 9. You should change to a
working channel, after contact is established (so as to keep the hailing channel clear for
other users).
7.7 OPERATING ON USA OR CANADIAN 13, OR USA CHANNEL 67
USA and Canadian Channel 13, USA 67 are used at docks, bridges and for maneuvering in
port. Messages on this channel must concern navigation only, such as meeting and passing
in restricted waters. In emergencies and when approaching blind river bends, high power is
allowed. Holding down the [H/L] key will change the power output from 1 Watt (L) to 5 Watts
(H); if pressed and held again 2.5 Watts (M) will be selected. When the PTT switch is
released, the transceiver will revert to low power. Press and hold in the [H/L] key again if
you need High power on a subsequent transmission.
7.8 OPERATING ON USA CHANNEL 67
USA Channel 67 is used for navigational bridge-to-bridge traffic between ships. This
channel has been allocated for temporary high power transmission if communication is not
able to be established on one watt.
Select Channel 67, then press the [H/L] key to set the transmitter output to either High or
Medium power. When the PTT switch is released, the transceiver will revert to low power.
7.9 DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING
7.9.1 GENERAL
7.9.1.1 Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
Digital Selective Calling is a semi-automated method of establishing a radio call; it has
been designated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as an international
standard for establishing VHF, MF and HF radio calls. It had also been designated as part
of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). It is planned that DSC will
eventually replace aural watches on distress frequencies and will be used to announce
routine and urgent maritime safety information broadcasts.
The HX600S has a DSC Distress feature that allows mariners to instantly transmit a VHF
Marine distress call with GPS position (when connected to the transceiver) to the US Coast
Guard and other vessels within range of the transmission.

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7.9.1.2 Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI)
What is an MMSI?
An MMSI is a nine digit number used on Marine Transceivers capable of using Digital
Selective Calling (DSC). This number is used by the HX600S when a Marine DSC Distress
call is transmitted. This number is registered with the USCG. Refer to section 13 “MENU
(“SET”) MODE” (MMSI REG).
NOTE: An MMSI must be programmed into the HX600S before the DSC Distress function
will operate. If you have a fixed mounted DSC VHF and already have a MMSI, this MMSI
should be programmed into the HX600S.
How can I obtain a MMSI assignment?
Currently there are two companies that offer MMSI numbers:
 Boat US at [phone] or visit the web site http://www.boatus.com/mmsi/.
 Seatow at [phone] or visit the web site http://www.seatow.com/mmsiinfo.htm
WARNING: This radio is designed to generate a digital maritime distress and safety call 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 70 distress
and safety watch system.
7.9.2 SENDING A DISTRESS CALL
The distress call automatically includes the vessel’s DSC MMSI and Lat/Lon position. The
vessel’s position will only be transmitted if the transceiver is properly connected to an
operating GPS receiver with NMEA output.
1. Lift the red DISTRESS rubber cover on the right side of the transceiver and press the
[DISTRESS] key. “DSC DISTRESS” will appear on the top of the LCD.
2. Press and hold in the [DISTRESS] key for 3 seconds. The LCD will count down (3s, 2s,
1s), and afterwards the HX600S will transmit the DSC Distress Call on channel 70.
3. When the distress signal is being sent, “TX” icon will appear on the LCD. After the
message has been sent, the Distress Alarm will sound.
4. The transceiver “shadow-watches” for a transmission between CH16 and CH70 until
an acknowledgment signal is received.
5. If no acknowledgment is received, the distress call is repeated in three minute intervals
until an acknowledgment is received.
6. To cancel the distress call alarm, press the [16/9] key.
7. To send the CANCEL call:

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Press the [DISTRESS] key, then press the [] or [] key until “CANCEL” is shown on
the LCD.
Press the [DISTRESS] key.
NOTE: When a GPS receiver with NMEA output is connected via the CD-26 Charger
Cradle, the vessel’s position is automatically transmitted with the distress call. The HX600S
will remember the position input from the GPS until the radio is turned off.
7.10 SIMPLEX/DUPLEX CHANNEL USE
All Marine channels are factory-programmed in accordance with FCC (USA), Industry
Canada and International regulations. The mode of operation cannot be altered from
simplex to duplex or vice-versa. Simplex (ship to ship) or duplex (marine operator) mode is
automatically activated, depending on the channel and whether the USA, International or
Canadian operating band is selected.
9. SCRAMABLER OPERATION
9.1 VOICE SCRAMBLER UNIT
The optional FVP-31 Voice Scrambler Unit permits secure voice communications with
stations within your network, which prevents others from listening using normal
communication equipment.
To activate the Voice Scrambler:
1. Select the channel on which you wish to activate the Voice Scrambler.
2. Press the [MENU] key to enter the Menu Mode.
3. Press the [] or [] key to select the Menu item (SCRAMBLER).
4. Press the [MENU] key to enable adjustment of this Menu item.
5. Press the [] or [] key to set this Menu item to “ON.”
6. When you have completed your selection, press the [MENU] key to save the new
setting, and then press the PTT key to exit to normal operation.
7. To disable the Voice Scrambler, select “OFF” in step 5 above.
Note: Voice Scrambler may not be activated on Marine Channels 16 and 70.
10. OPERATING PRACTICES
10.1 EMERGENCY (CHANNEL 16 USE)
Channel 16 is known as the Hail and Distress Channel. An emergency may be defined as a
threat to life or property. In such instances, be sure the transceiver is on and set to