VHF Marine Radio

Procedures

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

User Responsibility and Operating Locations

All users are responsible for observing domestic and foreign government regulations and are subject to severe penalties for violations. The VHF frequencies on your radio are reserved for marine use and require a special license to operate from land, including when your boat is on its trailer.

NOTE

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two (2) conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

FCC Warnings: Replacement or substitution of transistors, regular diodes or other parts of a unique nature, with parts other than those recommended by Cobra may cause a violation of the technical regulations of part 80 of the FCC Rules, or violation of type acceptance requirements of part 2 of the rules.

Voice Calling

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Limits on Calling

You must not call the same station for more than 30 seconds at a time.

If you do not get a reply, wait at least two (2) minutes before calling again. After three (3) calling periods, wait at least 15 minutes before calling again.

Change Channels

After contacting another station on a calling channel, change immediately to a channel which is available for the type of message you want to send.

Station Identification

Identify, in English, your station by your FCC call sign, vessel name and the state registration number, at both the beginning and at the end of the message.

Prohibited Communications

You MUST NOT transmit:

■ False distress or emergency messages.

VHF Marine Radio Procedures

Maintain Your Watch

•

■

Messages containing obscene, indecent or profane language.

■

General calls, signals or messages (messages not addressed to a particular

Whenever your boat is underway, the radio must be turned On and be tuned to Channel 16, except when being used for messages.

Power

Try 1 watt first if the station being called is within a few miles. Try a second call after waiting two (2) minutes. If there is no answer, switch to a higher power. This will conserve your battery and minimize interference to other users by avoiding repeated calls.

Calling Coast Stations

Call a coast station on its assigned channel. You may use Channel 16 when you do not know the assigned channel.

Calling Other Vessels

Call other vessels on Channel 16 or on Channel 9. (Channel 9 is preferred for recreational vessel use.) You may also call on ship-to-ship channels when you know that the vessel is listening on a ship-to-ship channel.

Initial Calling on Channel 16 or 9

The use of Channel 16 is permitted for making initial contact (hailing) with another vessel. The limits on calling must be followed. Be reminded, Channel 16’s most important function is for Emergency Messages. If, for some reason, Channel 16 is congested, the use of Channel 9, especially in U.S. waters, may be used as the initial contact (hailing) channel for non-emergency communication.

station) on Channel 16, except in an emergency or if you are testing your radio.

■ When you are on land.

Voice Calling

•

To Call Another Vessel or Shore Installation (e.g. Lock or Bridge Tender):

■Make sure your radio is On.

■Select Channel 16 and listen to make sure it is not being used.

NOTE

Channel 9 may be used by recreational vessels for general-purpose calling. This frequency should be used whenever possible to relieve congestion on Channel 16.

■When the channel is quiet, press the Talk button and call the vessel you wish to call. (Hold the microphone/speaker a few inches from your face and speak directly into it in a normal tone of voice — clearly and distinctly.) Say “[name of station being called] THIS IS [your vessel’s name or call sign].”

■Once contact is made on the calling channel, you must switch to a proper working channel. See the channel listing on page 14 through 15.

 

 

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra® 7

 

6 English

 

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Cobra Electronics MR F80B-D owner manual Voice Calling, VHF Marine Radio Procedures Maintain Your Watch
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MR F80B-D specifications

The Cobra Electronics MR F80B-D is a compact and feature-rich fixed mount VHF marine radio designed specifically for boating enthusiasts and maritime professionals. Renowned for its robust construction and innovative technology, this radio ensures reliable communication over marine channels, even in adverse weather conditions.

One of the standout features of the MR F80B-D is its built-in GPS, which provides real-time location tracking. This functionality is crucial for ensuring safety on the water, allowing users to quickly and accurately communicate their position in case of emergencies. The built-in GPS also supports DSC (Digital Selective Calling), which is an essential safety feature that enables users to send distress signals with just a push of a button, instantly alerting nearby vessels and coast guards.

The Cobra MR F80B-D is designed with user-friendliness in mind. Its large, easy-to-read display ensures that critical information is visible, even in bright sunlight. The intuitive navigation menu allows users to switch between channels and settings with ease. Its robust weatherproof construction guarantees continued operation in harsh marine environments, protecting it from saltwater, humidity, and extreme temperatures.

Additionally, the MR F80B-D incorporates a noise-canceling microphone that enhances voice clarity, ensuring that communications are crisp and clear. It features 10 NOAA weather channels, providing real-time weather updates, helping users stay informed about changing weather conditions while on the water. The built-in dual watch feature allows simultaneous monitoring of two channels, ensuring that no important communications are missed.

For those who need to stay connected to their devices, the MR F80B-D comes equipped with a USB charging port, making it straightforward to charge smartphones or other devices on board. The radio operates on both 25 watts and 1 watt, allowing users to select the appropriate power level based on their needs and proximity to other vessels or coastal facilities.

In conclusion, the Cobra Electronics MR F80B-D is a versatile and reliable marine radio that offers a combination of advanced features, including built-in GPS, DSC functionality, and a user-friendly interface. Its durability and ease of use make it an excellent choice for both recreational boaters and maritime professionals, ensuring secure and effective communication on the water.
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