Recommendations For

Marine Communication

Introduction

CAUTIONS

AVOID using or storing the radio at temperatures below -4°F (-20°C) or above 140°F (60°C).

NEVER connect the transceiver to DC power greater than 16 volts or to any DC source with reversed polarity. Doing so will damage the transceiver.

DO NOT cut the power cables attached to the transceiver. Improper reconnection with reversed polarity will damage the transceiver.

POSITION your radio, external speakers, and cables at least three (3) feet (0.9 m) away from your vessel’s magnetic navigation compass. CHECK your compass before and after installation to be sure that it has not introduced any deviation.

DO NOT attempt to service any internal parts yourself. Have any necessary service performed by a qualified technician.

DO NOT drop the transceiver or microphone. Doing so may crack the case or damage a waterproof seal. Once these items have been dropped, the original waterproofing cannot be guaranteed.

DO NOT use chemicals or solvents such as mineral spirits and alcohol to clean your radio. They may damage the case surfaces.

Changes or modifications to your radio MAY VOID its compliance with FCC (Federal Communications Commission) rules and make it illegal to use.

Recommendations For Marine Communication

 

The frequencies your radio uses are set aside to enhance safety afloat and for vessel navigation and operational messages over a range suitable for nearshore voyages. If the 25 watt maximum output of your radio isn’t sufficient for the distances you travel from the coast, consider installing more powerful radio equipment such as HF single side band or satellite radio for your vessel.

The U.S. Coast Guard does not endorse cellular telephones as substitutes for marine radios. They generally cannot communicate with rescue vessels and, if you make a distress call on a cellular telephone, only the party you call will be able to hear you. Additionally, cellular telephones may have limited coverage over water and can be hard to locate. If you don’t know where you are, the Coast Guard will have difficulty finding you if you’re using a cellular telephone.

However, cellular telephones can have a place on board where cellular coverage is available — to allow social conversations and keep the marine frequencies uncluttered and available for their intended uses.

FCC Information

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

FCC LICENSING INFORMATION

 

CobraMarine VHF radios comply with the FCC (Federal Communication Commission) requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Service.

This CobraMarine radio incorporates a VHF FM transceiver designed for use in the frequency range of 156.025 to 163.275 MHz. It requires 13.8 volts DC and has a switchable RF output power of one (1) or 25 watts.

The transceiver is capable of Class-D (Digital Selective Calling) operation in accordance with CFR Part 47, Section 80,225.

The radio operates on all currently allocated marine channels and is switchable for use according to U.S.A., International, or Canadian regulations. It features instant access to emergency Channel 16 and calling Channel 9 as well as NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) All Hazards Radio with Alert that can be accessed by pressing one (1) key.

Station License

An FCC ship station license is no longer required for any vessel traveling in U.S.A. waters which uses a VHF marine radio, RADAR, or EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon), 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 carrying a marine satellite terminal must obtain a station license.

FCC license forms and applications for ship and land stations can be downloaded through the Internet at www.fcc.gov/forms. Forms can also be obtained by calling the FCC at 888-225-5322.

International Station License

If your vessel will be entering the sovereign waters of a country other than the U.S.A. or Canada, you should contact that country’s communications regulatory authority for licensing information.

Radio Call Sign

Currently, the FCC does not require recreational boaters to have a license. The United States Coast Guard recommends that the boat’s registration number and state of registry (e.g., IL 1234 AB) be used as a call sign and be clearly visible on the vessel.

Canadian Ship Station License

You need a Radio Operator’s Certificate if your vessel is operated in Canadian waters. Radio Operator training and certification is available from the Canadian Power Squadron. Visit their website (http://www.cps-ecp.ca/english/newradiocard.html), contact the nearest field office or write: Industry of Canada, Radio Regulatory Branch, Attn: DOSP, 300 Slater Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0C8.

 

4 English

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra® 5

 

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Cobra Electronics MR F75-D owner manual Recommendations For Marine Communication, FCC Information

MR F75-D specifications

Cobra Electronics has long been a name associated with reliable communication solutions, and the MR F75-D is no exception. This high-performance marine VHF radio is designed specifically for boaters, offering a blend of essential features, advanced technologies, and user-friendly characteristics that make it an excellent choice for both recreational and commercial marine applications.

One of the standout features of the MR F75-D is its Class D DSC (Digital Selective Calling) capability, which allows users to send distress calls and communicate with other vessels or coast guard stations at the push of a button. This increases safety on the water, as it provides an automated means to alert others in case of emergencies.

The radio operates seamlessly on the vital marine channels, ensuring that users have access to all the necessary frequencies for navigation and communication. With an impressive 25 watts of transmitting power, the MR F75-D provides extended range, ensuring that calls can be made even in challenging conditions.

The Cobra MR F75-D boasts an ergonomic design featuring a solid weather-resistant construction to withstand the harsh marine environment. Its large, easy-to-read backlit LCD display enhances readability in bright sunlight or low-light conditions, making it accessible under various circumstances.

Moreover, the radio includes a built-in NOAA weather radio with alerts. This feature keeps users informed about local weather conditions and forecasts, enabling them to make better decisions while out at sea. The option to scan channels and save favorites makes it easy to navigate through crowded frequencies to find the right communication line.

The MR F75-D is equipped with Dual Watch and Tri-Watch functions, allowing users to monitor two or three channels simultaneously. This increases the chances of receiving essential messages while on the water, providing greater peace of mind.

With a compact design, the MR F75-D can fit easily on most boats, while the intuitive controls enhance usability. The radio also supports external GPS connection, offering even better situational awareness.

In conclusion, the Cobra Electronics MR F75-D is a versatile, durable, and feature-rich marine VHF radio. With its DSC capabilities, NOAA weather notifications, and robust build, it proves to be an invaluable tool for safe and efficient marine communication, making it a top choice for any boating enthusiast.