Standard Horizon QUANTUM GX5500S User manual

Page 1GX5500S
QUANTUM GX5500S
25 Watt VHF/FM
Marine Transceiver
Owner's Manual
zCommercial grade ITU-R M.493-13 Class D DSC transceiver
zSuperior receiver performance (80 dB rejection)
z30W loud hailer complete with listen-back and 4 fog horns, bells,and whistle
z2.2 inch internal speaker producing clear load audio
z2.58 x 1.28 inch dot matrix display
zAlphanumeric keypad allowing direct entry of channel numbers or selection or
most used functions
zNAV mode displaying latitude/longitude, position time, SOG, and COG*
zOversized rotary selector, volume and squelch
zProgrammable scan, selectable priority scan, and dual watch
zOne-button access to Channels 16 and 9
zTreble and bass audio tone control
zNMEA input and output of GPS information to other NMEA compatible devices
zOptional voice scrambler
zPlug and play front or rear panel microphone
(optional MEK-4 extension cable available)
zCapable of connecting two RAM3 (CMP30) remote access microphones
zOptional Bluetooth communication unit
* When connected to a GPS receiver

GX5500SPage 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Quick Reference Guide...............................................................................4
1 GENERAL INFORMATION.....................................................................5
2 PACKING LIST.......................................................................................5
3 OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES...................................................................6
4 ON-LINE WARRANTY REGISTRATION (in USA or Canada only)......6
5 GETTING STARTED...............................................................................7
5.1 PROHIBITED COMMUNICATIONS.............................................7
5.2 ABOUT VHF RADIO....................................................................7
5.3 SELECTINGAN ANTENNA.........................................................7
5.4 COAXIALCABLE.........................................................................8
5.5 EMERGENCY (CHANNEL 16 USE)............................................8
5.6 CALLINGANOTHER VESSEL (CHANNEL 16 OR 9)..................9
5.7 MAKING TELEPHONE CALLS..................................................10
5.8 OPERATING ON CHANNELS 13AND 67.................................10
5.9 AUTOMATED RADIO CHECK SERVICE..................................10
6 INSTALLATION ....................................................................................12
6.1 SAFETY / WARNING INFORMATION.......................................12
6.2 LOCATION.................................................................................12
6.3 MOUNTING THE RADIO...........................................................13
6.3.1 Supplied Mounting Bracket..............................................13
6.3.2 Optional MMB-84 Flush Mount Bracket...........................14
6.4 ELECTRICALCONNECTIONS.................................................15
6.5 ACCESSORY CABLES.............................................................16
6.6 CHECKING GPS STATUS.........................................................18
6.7 CHANGING THE GPS TIME .....................................................18
6.8 CHANGING THE TIME DISPLAY..............................................19
6.9 CHANGING COG TOTRUE OR MAGNETIC ..........................20
6.10 TREBLEAND BASS AUDIO TONE CONTROL.........................21
6.11 OPTIONALRAM3
(CMP30)INSTALLATION............................21
6.11.1 Connecting an External Speaker to the RAM3 Mic
Cable.............................................................................23
6.11.2 External SpeakerAF Selection......................................23
6.12 EXTRAMICROPHONE INSTALLATION...................................24
7 CONTROLS AND INDICATORS ..........................................................25
7.1 FRONT PANEL..........................................................................25
7.2 REAR PANEL.............................................................................30
7.3 MICROPHONE..........................................................................31
8 BASIC OPERATION.............................................................................32
8.1 RECEPTION..............................................................................32
8.2 TRANSMISSION........................................................................32
8.3 TRANSMIT TIME - OUTTIMER (TOT)......................................33
8.4 SIMPLEX/DUPLEX CHANNEL USE..........................................33
8.5 DISPLAYING SOGAND COG INFORMATION.........................33
8.6 ADJUSTING DIMMER...............................................................33
8.7 USA, CANADA,AND INTERNATIONALMODE........................34
8.8 NOAAWEATHER CHANNELS..................................................34
8.8.1 NOAAWeatherAlert........................................................34
8.8.2 NOAA Weather Alert Testing............................................35
8.9 DUAL WATCH (TO CHANNEL16)............................................35
8.10 SCANNING................................................................................36
8.10.1 Scan Type Selection ......................................................36
8.10.2 Scan Channel Memory Programming............................36
8.10.3 Memory Scanning (M-SCAN) ........................................37
8.10.4 Priority Scanning (P-SCAN)...........................................37
8.11 PA/FOG OPERATION................................................................38
8.11.1 Operating the PA/HAILER mode....................................38
8.11.2 Operating the FOG HORN mode...................................39
8.11.3 Fog Signal Timing Chart.................................................40
8.12 INTERCOM OPERATION..........................................................41
8.12.1 Communication..............................................................41
8.12.2 Calling............................................................................41
8.13 VOICE SCRAMBLER ................................................................42
8.14 WIRELESS OPERATION ..........................................................42
9 DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING..........................................................43
9.1 GENERAL..................................................................................43
9.2 MARITIME MOBILE SERVICE IDENTITY (MMSI)....................43
9.2.1 What is an MMSI?............................................................43
9.2.2 Programming the MMSI....................................................44
9.3 DSC DISTRESSALERT............................................................45
9.3.1 Transmitting a DSC Distress Alert....................................45
9.3.2 Receiving a DSC Distress Call ........................................49
9.4 ALL SHIPS CALL.......................................................................50
9.4.1 Transmitting an All Ships Call..........................................50
9.4.2 Receiving anAll Ships Call..............................................51
9.5 INDIVIDUALCALL.....................................................................52
9.5.1 Setting up the Individual / Position Call Directory............52
9.5.2 Setting up the Individual Call Reply.................................53
9.5.3 Setting up the Individual CallAcknowledgment...............54
9.5.4 Transmitting an Individual Call.........................................55
9.5.5 Receiving an Individual Call.............................................57
9.5.6 Setting up the Individual Call Ringer................................58
9.6 GROUP CALL............................................................................59
9.6.1 Setting up the Group Call.................................................59
9.6.2 Transmitting a Group Call................................................61
9.6.3 Receiving a Group Call....................................................63
9.6.4 Setting up the Group Call Ringer.....................................64
9.7 POSITION REQUEST ...............................................................65
9.7.1 Setting up the Position Reply...........................................65
9.7.2 Transmitting a Position Request to Another Vessel.........66
9.7.3 Receiving a Position Request..........................................68
9.7.4 Setting up the Position Request Ringer...........................69
9.8 POSITION REPORT..................................................................70
9.8.1 Transmitting a DSC Position Report Call.........................70
9.8.2 Receiving a DSC Position Report Call.............................72
9.8.3 Setting up the Position Report Ringer..............................72
9.9 MANUAL INPUTTINGAGPS POSITION (LAT/LON)................73
9.10 DSC TEST CALL.......................................................................74
9.10.1 DSC Test Call by using Individual/Position Call
Directory........................................................................74
9.10.2 DSC Test Call by Manually Entering a MMSI.................75
9.10.3 Receiving a DSC Test Call.............................................76
9.11 POLLING CALL..........................................................................77
9.11.1 Transmitting a Polling Call to Another Vessel.................77
9.11.2 Receiving a Polling Call .................................................78
9.12 DSC LOG OPERATION.............................................................79
9.12.1 Reviewing Logged DSC Distress Calls..........................79
9.12.2 Reviewing Other Logged Calls......................................80
9.12.3 Deleting a Call from the “DSC LOG” Directory ..............80
10 RADIO SETUP......................................................................................82
10.1 CONTRAST...............................................................................82
10.2 TIME OFFSET.............................................................................82
10.3 TIME DISPLAY............................................................................82
10.4 SOG UNIT..................................................................................83
10.5 MAGNETIC................................................................................83
10.6 PRIORITY CHANNEL................................................................83
10.7 SCAN TYPE...............................................................................84
10.8 SCAN RESUME TIME...............................................................84
10.9 KEY BEEP.................................................................................85
10.10 WEATHERALERT.....................................................................85
10.11 CHANNELNAME.......................................................................86
10.12 UNIT NAME...............................................................................87
10.13 TREBLEAND BASS AUDIO TONE CONTROL.........................88
10.14 FOGALERT TONE FREQUENCY.............................................88
10.15 CALENDAR SETUP ..................................................................89

Page 3GX5500S
TABLE OF CONTENTS
11 DSC SETUP..........................................................................................92
11.1 INDIVIDUALDIRECTORY.........................................................92
11.2 INDIVIDUALREPLY ..................................................................92
11.3 INDIVIDUALACKNOWLEDGMENT..........................................92
11.4 INDIVIDUALRINGER................................................................92
11.5 GROUP DIRECTORY................................................................92
11.6 POSITION REPLY.....................................................................93
11.7 DSC BEEP.................................................................................93
11.8 AUTO CHANNEL SWITCH TIME..............................................94
11.9 NOACTION TIMER ON MENU OPERATION...........................94
11.10 NOACTION TIMER ON DSC OPERATION..............................95
11.11 NOACTION TIMER ON DISTRESS OPERATION....................95
12 BLUETOOTH SETUP...........................................................................96
12.1 VOX FUNCTION........................................................................96
12.2 SAVE FUNCTION......................................................................96
12.3 PIN CODE..................................................................................97
12.4 PAIRING....................................................................................97
13 RAM3
(CMP30)REMOTE MIC OPERATION.......................................98
13.1 REMOTE MIC CONTROLS.......................................................98
13.2 ASSIGNING SOFT KEYS........................................................100
14 MAINTENANCE..................................................................................102
14.1 REPLACEMENT PARTS .........................................................102
14.2 FACTORY SERVICE ...............................................................103
14.3 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART................................................104
15 CHANNEL ASSIGNMENTS................................................................105
16 WARRANTY........................................................................................ 111
17 SPECIFICATIONS ..............................................................................115
17.1 GENERAL.................................................................................115
17.2 TRANSMITTER.........................................................................115
17.3 RECEIVER................................................................................116
17.4 DIMENSIONS............................................................................117
18 FCC RADIO LICENSE INFORMATION..............................................119
18.1 STATION LICENSE..................................................................119
18.2 RADIO CALL SIGN..................................................................119
18.3 CANADIAN SHIP STATION LICENSING.................................119
18.4 FCC / INDUSTRY CANADAINFORMATION...........................119
19 FCC NOTICE ......................................................................................120

GX5500SPage 4
QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE
The GX5500S is equipped with the E2O (Easy-To-Operate) system. You can
do the basic operation in numerical order in the illustration below.
cConnect the supplied hand microphone.
dPress and hold the
PWR
key to turn on or off the radio.
eRotate the SQL knob counter clockwise to unsquelch the radio.
fRotate the VOL knob to adjust the speaker audio volume.
gRotate the SQL knob clockwise to the point where the noise not heard
from the speaker.
h
Rotate the DIAL knob (or press the microphone's / keys) to select
the operating channel.
iPress the
H/L
key to toggle the transmit power between High (25W) and
Low (1W).
jPress the
16/9
(or microphone's 9
16 ) key to recall Channel 16.
Press and hold the
16/9
(or microphone's 9
16 ) key to recall Channel 9.
Press again to revert to the last selected channel.
kPlace your mouth about 1/2 inch away from Mic hole and speak in a
normal voice level while pressing the PTT switch.
M IC H OLE
h
j
k
DISTRESS
PULL OPEN
-/*
JKL
f
eg
hj di
c

Page 5GX5500S
1 GENERAL INFORMATION
The STANDARD HORIZON QUANTUM GX5500S marine VHF/FM marine
transceiver is capable of ITU-R 493-13 DSC (Digital Selective Calling) class
D operation. The class D operation allows continuous receiving of digital
selective calling functions on channel 70 even if the radio is receiving a call.
The GX5500S VHF operates on all currently-allocated marine channels
which are switchable for USA, International, or Canadian regulations. Emer-
gency Channel 16 can be immediately selected from any channel by press-
ing the red
16/9
key. NOAA Weather channels can also be accessed immedi-
ately by pressing the
WX
key.
The GX5500S can be operated from 11 to 16 VDC and has a switchable RF
output power of 1 watt or 25 watts.
Other features of the GX5500S VHF’s include: removable microphone with
controls, optional RAM3 second station remote-control microphone with
display, intercom between radio and optional RAM3, scanning, priority scan-
ning, dual watch, high and low voltage warning, and GPS repeatability.
2 PACKING LIST
:KHQWKHSDFNDJHFRQWDLQLQJWKHWUDQVFHLYHULV¿UVWRSHQHGSOHDVHFKHFNLW
for the following contents:
yGX5500S Transceiver
yHand Microphone
yPower Cord with Fuse Holder
yMounting Bracket and Hardware
yOwner’s Manual
yDSC Warning Sticker

GX5500SPage 6
3 OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
MMB-84 .......................................................................... Flush-mount bracket
CMP30B/W ................ Remote-access microphone (RAM3 Mic, Black/White)
CT-100 ................................................. 23-foot extension cable for RAM3 Mic
CVS2500 ............................................................................... Voice scrambler
MLS-310 ..............:DPSOL¿HGH[WHUQDOVSHDNHUZLWKRQRIIYROXPHFRQWURO
MLS-300 ....................................................................... External loud speaker
220SW .................................................................... 4.5” round PA/Hailer horn
240SW ........................................................5” x 8” rectangular PA/Hailer horn
MEK-4 ..........23-foot microphone extension kit (for connection to rear panel)
BH-2A .................................................................................Bluetooth headset
BU-1 .............................................................................Bluetooth adapter unit
4 ON-LINE WARRANTY REGISTRATION
(in USA or Canada only)
Please visit www.standardhorizon.com to register the GX5500S marine VHF.
,WVKRXOGEHQRWHGWKDWYLVLWLQJWKHZHEVLWHIURPWLPHWRWLPHPD\EHEHQH¿-
cial to you, as new products are released they will appear on the STAN-
DARD HORIZON website.
PRODUCT SUPPORT INQUIRIES
If you have any questions or comments regarding the use of the GX5500S,
you can visit the STANDARD HORIZON website to send an E-Mail
([email protected]) or contact the Product Support team at (800)
767-2450 M-F 8:00AM to 5:00PM PST.

Page 7GX5500S
5 GETTING STARTED
5.1 PROHIBITED COMMUNICATIONS
The FCC prohibits the following communications:
 )DOVHGLVWUHVVRUHPHUJHQF\PHVVDJHV
 0HVVDJHVWR³DQ\ERDW´H[FHSWLQHPHUJHQFLHVDQGUDGLRWHVWV
 0HVVDJHVWRRUIURPDYHVVHORQODQG
 7UDQVPLVVLRQZKLOHRQODQG
 2EVFHQHLQGHFHQWRUSURIDQHODQJXDJHSRWHQWLDO¿QHRI
5.2 ABOUT VHF RADIO
The radio frequencies used in the VHF marine band lie between 156 and
158 MHz with some shore stations available between 161 and 163 MHz. The
marine VHF band provides communications over distances that are essen-
WLDOO\³OLQHRI VLJKW´9+)VLJQDOVGR QRWWUDYHOZHOOWKURXJK REMHFWV VXFKDV
buildings, hills or trees). Actual transmission range depends much more on
antenna type, gain and height than on the power output of the transmitter.
2QD¿[HGPRXQW:UDGLRWUDQVPLVVLRQH[SHFWHGGLVWDQFHVFDQEHJUHDWHU
than 15 miles.
5.3 SELECTING AN ANTENNA
Marine antennas are made to radiate signals equally in all horizontal direc-
tions, but not straight up. The objective of a marine antenna is to enhance
the signal toward the horizon. The degree to which this is accomplished is
called the antenna’s gain. It is measured in decibels (dB) and is one of the
major factors in choosing an antenna. In terms of effective radiated power
(ERP), antennas are rated on the basis of how much gain they have over a
theoretical antenna with zero gain. A 3-foot, 3dB gain antenna represents
twice as much gain over the imaginary antenna.
Typically a 3-foot 3dB gain stainless steel whip is used on a sailboat mast.
7KHORQJHUIRRWG%¿EHUJODVVZKLSLVSULPDULO\XVHGRQSRZHUERDWVWKDW
require the additional gain.
3dB
6dB
9dB

GX5500SPage 8
5.4 COAXIAL CABLE
VHF antennas are connected to the transceiver by means of a coaxial cable
±DVKLHOGHGWUDQVPLVVLRQOLQH&RD[LDOFDEOHLVVSHFL¿HGE\LW¶VGLDPHWHUDQG
construction.
For runs less than 20 feet, RG-58/U, about 1/4 inch in diameter is a good
choice. For runs over 20 feet but less than 50 feet, the larger RG-8X or
RG-213/U should be used for cable runs over 50 feet RG-213/U should be
used. For installation of the connector onto the coaxial cable refer to the
¿JXUHEHORZ
7RJHW\RXUFRD[FDEOHWKURXJKD¿WWLQJDQGLQWR\RXUERDW¶VLQWHULRU
you may have to cut off the end plug and reattach it later. You can do
this if you follow the directions that come with the connector. Be sure
to make good soldered connections.
5.5 EMERGENCY (CHANNEL 16 USE)
Channel 16 is known as the Hail and Distress Channel. An emergency may
EH GH¿QHG DV D WKUHDW WR OLIH RU SURSHUW\ ,Q VXFK LQVWDQFHV EH VXUH WKH
transceiver is on and set to CHANNEL 16. Then use the following proce-
dure:
 3UHVV WKH PLFURSKRQH SXVKWRWDON VZLWFK DQG VD\ ³Mayday, Mayday,
Mayday. This is , , ” (your vessel’s name).
 7KHQUHSHDWRQFH³Mayday, ” (your vessel’s name).
3. Now report your position in latitude/longitude, or by giving a true or
magnetic bearing (state which) to a well-known landmark such as a navi-
gation aid or geographic feature such as an island or harbor entry.
 ([SODLQWKHQDWXUHRI\RXUGLVWUHVVVLQNLQJFROOLVLRQDJURXQG¿UHKHDUW
attack, life-threatening injury, etc.).
5. State the kind of assistance your desire (pumps, medical aid, etc.).

Page 9GX5500S
6. Report the number of persons aboard and condition of any injured.
7. Estimate the present seaworthiness and condition of your vessel.
8. Give your vessel’s description: length, design (power or sail), color and
other distinguishing marks. The total transmission should not exceed 1
minute.
 (QG WKH PHVVDJH E\ VD\LQJ ³OVER”. Release the microphone button
and listen.
10. If there is no answer, repeat the above procedure. If there is still no
response, try another channel.
NOTE
The GX5500S has DSC distress calling, that can transmit a distress
call digitally to all ships with compatible DSC radios. Refer to section
³9 DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING”.
5.6 CALLING ANOTHER VESSEL (CHANNEL 16 OR 9)
Channel 16 may be used for initial contact (hailing) with another vessel.
However, its most important use is for emergency messages. This channel
must be monitored at all times except when actually using another channel.
Channel 16 is monitored by the U.S. and Canadian Coast Guards and by
other vessels. Use of channel 16 for hailing must be limited to initial
contact only. Calling should not exceed 30 seconds, but may be repeated
3 times at 2-minute intervals. In areas of heavy radio traffic, congestion
on channel 16 resulting from its use as a hailing channel can be reduced
VLJQL¿FDQWO\LQ86ZDWHUVE\XVLQJchannel 9 as the initial contact (hailing)
channel for non-emergency communications. Also hailing on channel 9, the
calling time should not exceed 30 seconds but may be repeated 3 times at
2-minute intervals.
Prior to making contact with another vessel, refer to the channel charts in this
manual, and select an appropriate channel for communications after initial
contact. For example, Channels 68 and 69 of the U.S. VHF Charts are some
of the channels available to non-commercial (recreational) boaters. Monitor
your desired channel in advance to make sure you will not be interrupting
RWKHUWUDI¿FDQGWKHQJREDFNWRHLWKHUFKDQQHORUIRU\RXULQLWLDOFRQWDFW
When the hailing channel (16 or 9) is clear, press the PTT (push-to-talk)
switch on the mic and state the name of the other vessel you wish to call and
then “this is” followed by the name of your vessel and your Station License
(Call Sign) then release the PTT switch on the mic. When the other vessel
returns your call, immediately request another channel by pressing the PTT

GX5500SPage 10
VZLWFKRQWKHPLFDQGVD\LQJ³go to,” the number of the other channel, say
³over” and release the PTT switch on the mic. Then switch to the new chan-
nel. When the new channel is not busy, call the other vessel.
$IWHUDWUDQVPLVVLRQVD\³over,” and release the microphone’s PTT switch.
When all communication with the other vessel is completed, end the last
WUDQVPLVVLRQE\VWDWLQJ\RXU&DOO6LJQDQGWKHZRUG³out.” Note that it is not
necessary to state your Call Sign with each transmission, only at the begin-
ning and end of the contact.
Remember to return to Channel 16 when not using another channel. Some
radios automatically monitor Channel 16 even when set to other channels or
when scanning.
5.7 MAKING TELEPHONE CALLS
To make a radiotelephone call, use a channel designated for this purpose.
Check with your local marina to learn which channels are used for radio-
WHOHSKRQH WUDI¿F &KDQQHOV DYDLODEOH IRU VXFK WUDI¿F DUH GHVLJQDWHG Public
Correspondence channels on the channel charts in this manual. Some
examples for USA use are the channels 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 84, 85, 86, and
87. Call the marine operator and identify yourself by your vessel’s name, the
marine operator will then ask you how you will pay for the call (telephone
credit card, collect, etc.) and then link your radio transmission to the tele-
phone lines.
The marine telephone company managing the VHF channel you are using
may charge a link-up fee in addition to the cost of the call.
5.8 OPERATING ON CHANNELS 13 AND 67
Channel 13 is used at docks, bridges and by vessels maneuvering in port.
Messages on this channel must concern navigation only, such as meeting
and passing in restricted waters.
&KDQQHOLVXVHGIRUQDYLJDWLRQDOWUDI¿FEHWZHHQYHVVHOV
By regulation, power is normally limited to 1 Watt on these channels. Your
radio is programmed to automatically reduce power to this limit on these
channels. However, in certain situations it may be necessary to temporarily
use a higher power. See page 26 (
H/L
key) for means to temporarily over-
ride the low-power limit on these two channels.
5.9 AUTOMATED RADIO CHECK SERVICE
In areas across the country, Sea Tow offers boaters a way to conduct radio
checks. To use Sea Tow’s free Automated Radio Check service, simply tune

Page 11GX5500S
your VHF radio to the appropriate channel for your location and conduct a
radio check as you typically would. Upon releasing your radio’s microphone,
the system will play an automated message and relay your transmission back
to you, thereby letting you know how your signal will sound to other boaters.
The Automated Radio Check Service is currently available in the areas listed
below.
West Coast South Carolina
Newport/LA - Ch. 27 Charleston - Ch. 27
San Diego - Ch. 27 Georgetown - Ch. 27
Northeast Myrtle Beach - Ch. 27
Central Connecticut - Ch. 24 Gulf of Mexico
Eastern Connecticut - Ch. 27 Galveston Bay - Ch. 27
Southern Connecticut - Ch. 24 Mobile - Ch. 26
Portland-Midcoast (Maine) - Ch. 27 New Orleans - Ch. 27
Boston - Ch. 27 Pensacola/Orange Beach (Ala.) - Ch. 27
Cape and Islands - Ch. 28 Georgia
South Shore (Mass.) - Ch. 26 Brunswick - Ch. 27
Rhode Island - Ch. 24 Tennessee
Central Hudson (NY) - Ch. 24 Fort Loudon - Ch. 28
Eastern Long Island - Ch. 28 Florida
Freeport (N.Y.) - Ch. 24 Carrabelle/St. Marks - Ch. 26 & 27
Great South Bay (N.Y.) - Ch. 27 Charlotte Harbor - Ch. 26
Lower New York - Ch. 28 Clearwater/Port Richey - Ch. 26 & 27
Huntington (N.Y.) - Ch. 28 Daytona - Ch. 26
Port Jefferson - Ch. 27 Destin - Ch. 26 & 27
Shinnecock / Moriches (N.Y.) - Ch. 24 & 27 Fort Lauderdale - Ch. 27
Services International (Southold) - Ch. 28 Fort Myers - Ch.27
Western LI Sound - Ch. 27 Horseshoe Beach - Ch. 26
Manasquan (N.J.) - Ch. 24 Islamorada - Ch. 26
Northern New Jersey - Ch. 27 Jacksonville - Ch. 27
Mid-Atlantic Key Biscayne - Ch. 26
Atlantic City (NJ) - Ch. 26 Key Largo - Ch. 27
Central New Jersey (NJ) - Ch. 27 Marco Island - Ch. 27
Sea Isle / Cape May (NJ) - Ch. 26 Naples - Ch. 26
Delaware River (DE) - Ch. 26 Palm Beach - Ch. 26
Northern Chesapeake (Md.) - Ch. 27 Panama City - Ch. 27
Central Chesapeake (Md.) - Ch. 27 Pensacola - Ch. 26 & 27
Lower Chesapeake(Va.) - Ch. 26 Port Canaveral - Ch. 26
Hampton Roads (Va.) - Ch. 28 Port St. Joe - Ch. 26
North Carolina Sarasota - Ch. 26
Albermarle Sound- Ch. 27 Sebastian - Ch. 27
Crystal Coast- Ch. 27 St. Augustine - Ch. 26
Ocean Isle Beach - Ch. 26 Services International
(Summerland Keys) - Ch. 27
Oregon Inlet- Ch. 27 Tampa Bay - Ch. 27
Pamlico Sound - Ch. 27 Treasure Coast - Ch. 27
Wrightsville Beach - Ch. 26 & 27 Venice - Ch. 27
Puerto Rico Virgin Islands
Puerto Rico - Ch. 26 & 27 Virgin Islands - Ch. 27

GX5500SPage 12
6 INSTALLATION
6.1 SAFETY / WARNING INFORMATION
This radio is restricted to occupational use, work related operations only
where the radio operator must have the knowledge to control the exposure
conditions of its passengers and bystanders by maintaining the minimum
separation distance of 3 feet (1 m). Failure to observe these restrictions will
result in exceeding the FCC RF exposure limits.
Antenna Installation:
The antenna must be located at least 3 feet (1 m) away from passengers in
order to comply with the FCC RF exposure requirements.
Lithium Battery Included:
This radio contains a lithium battery. At the end of radio’s useful life, under
various state and lows, it may be illegal to dispose of lithium battery into the
PXQLFLSDOZDVWHVWUHDP&KHFNZLWK\RXUORFDOVROLGZDVWHRI¿FLDOVIRUGHWDLOV
in your area for recycling options or proper disposal.
6.2 LOCATION
The radio can be mounted at any angle. Choose a mounting location that:
 LV IDU HQRXJK IURP DQ\ FRPSDVV WR DYRLG DQ\ GHYLDWLRQ LQ FRPSDVV
reading due to the speaker magnet
 SURYLGHVDFFHVVLELOLW\WRWKHIURQWSDQHOFRQWUROV
 DOORZVFRQQHFWLRQWRDSRZHUVRXUFHDQGDQDQWHQQD
 KDVQHDUE\VSDFHIRULQVWDOODWLRQRIDPLFURSKRQHKDQJHU
 LVDWOHDVWIHHWPDZD\IURPWKHUDGLR¶VDQWHQQD
Note: To insure the radio does not affect the compass or radios performance
is not affected by the antenna location, temporarily connect the radio in the
desired location and:
a. Examine the compass to see if the radio causes any deviation
b. Connect the antenna and key the radio. Check to ensure the radio is
operating correctly by requesting a radio check.

Page 13GX5500S
6.3 MOUNTING THE RADIO
6.3.1 Supplied Mounting Bracket
The supplied mounting bracket allows overhead or desktop mounting.
See illustration on next page, use a 13/64” (5.2 mm) bit to drill the holes to a
surface which is more 0.4 inch (10 mm) thick and can support more than 3.3
lbs (1.5 kg) and secure the bracket with the supplied screws, spring washers,
ÀDWZDVKHUVDQGQXWV
DESKTOP MOUNTING OVERHEAD MOUNTING

GX5500SPage 14
6.3.2 Optional MMB-84 Flush Mount Bracket
 0DNHDUHFWDQJXODUWHPSODWHIRUWKHÀXVKPRXQWPHDVXULQJ´+[´
W (72 x 205 mm).
2. Use the supplied template to mark the location where the rectangular hole
LVWREHFXW&RQ¿UPWKHVSDFHEHKLQGWKHGDVKRUSDQHOLVGHHSHQRXJK
to accommodate the transceiver (at least 6 inches (150 mm) deep).
There should be at least 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) between the transceiver’s
heatsink and any wiring, cables or structures.
3. Cut out the rectangular hole and insert the transceiver.
4. Fasten the brackets to the side of the transceiver with the lock-washer
QXW FRPELQDWLRQ VR WKDW WKH PRXQWLQJ VFUHZ EDVH IDFHV WKH PRXQWLQJ
surface (see the illustration below).
5. Turn the adjusting screw to adjust the tension so that the transceiver is
tight against the mounting surface.
MMB-84 Mounting Bracket Adjusting Screw
Lock-washer nut combination

Page 15GX5500S
6.4 ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
CAUTION
Reverse polarity battery connections will damage the radio!
Connect the power cord and antenna to the radio. Antenna and Power
Supply connections are as follows:
1. Mount the antenna at least 3 feet (1 m) away from the radio. At the rear
of the radio, connect the antenna cable. The antenna cable must have
a PL259 connector attached. RG-8/U coaxial cable must be used if the
antenna is 25 feet (7.6 m) or more from the radio. RG58 cable can be
used for distances less than 25 feet (7.6 m).
2. Connect the red power wire to a 11.0 V to 16.5 V DC power source
(Normal: 13.8 VDC). Connect the black power wire to a negative ground.
 ,IDQRSWLRQDOUHPRWHH[WHQVLRQVSHDNHULVWREHXVHGUHIHUWRVHFWLRQ³6.5
ACCESSORY CABLES” for connections.
4. Connect the supplied hand microphone to the connector on the front
panel.
GPS Navigation Receiver
AccessoryCable
Optional Speaker
Optional Speaker
Optional Bluetooth Headset
Bluetooth (Wireless) Communication
Antenna
Fuse
Red
Power Source
Black
Water proof
Deck Outlet
Optional PA/Hailer Horn
Optional CMP30 Remote MIC
It is advisable to have a Certified Marine Technician check for the power
output and the standing wave ratio of the antenna after installation.

GX5500SPage 16
Fuse Replacement (125V 6A)
To take out the fuse from the fuse holder, hold both ends of the fuse holder
and pull the fuse holder apart without bending. When you replace the fuse,
please confirm that the fuse is tightly fixed on the metal contact located
inside the fuse holder. If the metal contact holding the fuse is loose, the fuse
holder may heat up.
6.5 ACCESSORY CABLES
Wire Color/Description Connection Examples
WHITE - External Speaker (+)Connect to external 4 Ohm audio speaker
SHIELD - External Speaker (–) Connect to external 4 Ohm audio speaker
RED - PA Speaker (+)Connect to external 4 Ohm PA speaker
SHIELD - PA Speaker (–) Connect to external 4 Ohm PA speaker
BLUE - NMEA GPS Input (+)Connect to NMEA (+)output of GPS
GREEN - NMEA GPS Input (–)ÚConnect to NMEA (–) output or common ground of GPS
GRAY - NMEA DSC Output (+)Connect to NMEA (+)input of GPS
BROWN - NMEA GPS Output (–)ÚConnect to NMEA (–) input of GPS
Ú: Some GPS chart plotters have a single wire for NMEA signal ground. In such a case
connect the NMEA input (–) to the GPS chart plotter’s single NMEA signal ground wire, and
leave the NMEA output (–) open. In case the assignment of power supply and ground of a
GPS chart plotter to be used is different from that of the radio, connect the signal ground
wire of the GPS chart plotter to the ground terminal (GND) on the rear panel of the radio.
When connecting the external speaker, chart plotter, or external GPS anten-
na, strip off about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of the specified wire’s insulation, then
splice the ends together.

Page 17GX5500S
External Speaker
GPS Receiver
PA Speaker
Green
Blue NMEA OUT
NMEA OUT
NMEA IN
( )
( )
( )
Gray
Shield
Shield
Red
White
( )
NMEA INBrown
DISTRESS
PULL OPE N
-/*
JKL
In some areas powerful AM broadcast stations may be heard when in listen-
back mode. In this case change the speaker wire to 2-conductor shielded
audio cable. See the illustration below for connections.
Red 2 conductor shielded
Bare
Connect the bare wire from the GX5500S
to one wire and to the shielded.
Make red and bare connections short as possible
Shield of cable is not
attached on PA Speaker end
PA Speaker
DISTRESS
PULL OPEN
-/*
JKL
External GPS Connections (4800 baud)
NMEA Input (GPS Information)
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the setup menu. If there is a selection for parity select none.
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contact the manufacturer of the GPS receiver.
 7KHGX5500S can read NMEA-0183 version 2.0 or higher.
 7KH10($LQSXWVHQWHQFHVDUH*//**$50&DQG*1650&
sentence is recommended for position information).
NMEA Output (DSC and GPS Information)
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If you have further inquires, please feel free to contact Product Support at:
Phone: [phone]
Email: [email protected]

GX5500SPage 18
6.6 CHECKING GPS STATUS
When turning on the radio after connections have
been made between the GX5500S and the GPS, a
small satellite icon ( ) will appear on the top right
corner of the display and your current location (latitude/
longitude) will be shown on the display.
NOTE
If there is a problem with the NMEA connection between the radio
and the GPS, the GPS icon will blink continuously until the connec-
tion is corrected.
When you input your location manually,
6.7 CHANGING THE GPS TIME
From the factory the GX5500S, when connected to an optional GPS, will
display GPS satellite time or UTC (Universal Time Coordinated). A time offset
is needed to show the local time in your area. Please see the time offset
table in the next page.
1. Press and hold the
CALL
NH\XQWLO³Setup Menu”
DSSHDUVWKHQVHOHFW³Radio Setup” with the
DIAL knob.
DSC Setup
Radio Setup
SELECT
[ENT]
QUIT
[CLR]

-Setup Menu-
-Radio Setup-
Contrast
Time Offset
SOG Unit
Magnetic
Time Display
SELECT
[ENT]
QUIT
[CLR]

-Offset Time-
+02:00
+01:30
+00:30
00:00
+01:00
SELECT
[ENT]
QUIT
[CLR]

2. Press the
ENT
NH\WKHQVHOHFW³Time Offset” with
the DIAL knob.
3. Press the
ENT
key, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select time offset of your location. See illustration
LQWKHQH[WSDJHWR¿QG\RXURIIVHWWLPH,I³00:00”
is assigned, the time is the same as UTC (Univer-
sal Time Coordinated or GPS Satellite Time).
4. Press the
ENT
key to store the time offset.
5. Press the
CLR
key twice to return to radio opera-
tion.
SOG:25.0
COG:160
P-CH
12:56
LOC AM
25W USA
MP
N
W
T
16
DISTRESS
33 37.125
118 09.587

Page 19GX5500S
TIME OFFSET TABLE
6.8 CHANGING THE TIME DISPLAY
This menu selection allows the radio to show UTC (Universal Time Coordi-
nated or GPS Satellite Time) or local time with the offset.
1. Press and hold the
CALL
NH\XQWLO³Setup Menu”
DSSHDUVWKHQVHOHFW³Radio Setup” with the
DIAL knob.
DSC Setup
Radio Setup
SELECT
[ENT]
QUIT
[CLR]

-Setup Menu-
-Radio Setup-
Contrast
Time Offset
SOG Unit
Magnetic
Time Display
SELECT
[ENT]
QUIT
[CLR]

-Time Display-
UTC
Local
SELECT
[ENT]
QUIT
[CLR]

2. Press the
ENT
key, then rotate the DIAL knob to
VHOHFW³Time Display”.
3. Press the
ENT
key.
4. Rotate the DIALNQREWRVHOHFW³UTC´RU³Local”.
5. Press the
ENT
key to store the selected setting.
6. Press the
CLR
key twice to return to radio opera-
tion.

GX5500SPage 20
6.9 CHANGING COG TO TRUE OR MAGNETIC
$OORZVWKH*36&2*&RXUVH2YHU*URXQGWREHVHOHFWHGWRVKRZLQ³7UXH´
RU³0DJQHWLF´)DFWRU\GHIDXOWLV³7UXH´KRZHYHUE\IROORZLQJWKHVWHSVEHORZ
WKH&2*FDQEHFKDQJHGWR³0DJQHWLF´
1. Press and hold the
CALL
NH\XQWLO³Setup Menu”
DSSHDUVWKHQVHOHFW³Radio Setup” with the
DIAL knob.
DSC Setup
Radio Setup
SELECT
[ENT]
QUIT
[CLR]

-Setup Menu-
-Radio Setup-
Contrast
Time Offset
SOG Unit
Magnetic
Time Display
SELECT
[ENT]
QUIT
[CLR]

-Magnetic-
Magnetic
True
SELECT
[ENT]
QUIT
[CLR]

2. Press the
ENT
key, then rotate the DIAL knob to
VHOHFW³Magnetic”.
3. Press the
ENT
key.
4. Rotate the DIALNQREWRVHOHFW ³Magnetic” or
³True”.
5. Press the
ENT
key to store the selected setting.
6. Press the
CLR
key twice to return to radio opera-
tion.