Recommendations For

Marine Communication

Introduction

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 two (2) watt maximum output of your radio isn’t sufficient for the distances you travel from the coast, consider purchasing a CobraMarinehand held radio with up to five (5) watts of output power or installing a Cobra® fixed mount radio with up to 25 watts of output power. (Visit www.cobra.com or your local dealer for model availability.)

If you will be going far offshore, you should consider adding even 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 unavailable — to allow social conversations and keep the marine frequencies uncluttered and available for their intended uses.

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

FCC LICENSING INFORMATION

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

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 Information

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

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., Illinois 1234 AB) be used as a call sign and be clearly visible on the vessel.

Canadian Ship Station License

This portable VHF radiotelephone is suitable ONLY for voluntary carriage onboard Canadian ships NOT subject to the Ship Station (Radio) Regulations, 1999. You may need a license if your vessel is operated in Canadian waters. Please contact the nearest field office or write: Industry of Canada, Radio Regulatory Branch,

Attn: DOSP, 300 Slater Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0C8.

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.

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Nothing comes close to a Cobra® 5

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Cobra Electronics MR HH100 VP owner manual Recommendations For Marine Communication, FCC Information

MR HH100 VP specifications

The Cobra Electronics MR HH100 VP is a high-performance handheld VHF marine radio designed for boating enthusiasts and marine professionals who value communication reliability on the water. This device stands out in the crowded market of marine radios thanks to its robust features, advanced technologies, and rugged design.

One of the primary characteristics of the MR HH100 VP is its compact, lightweight design. Weighing in at just a few ounces, it fits comfortably in your hand and can easily be stowed away when not in use. Its IPX7 waterproof rating ensures that it can withstand splashes and brief submersion, making it ideal for use in unpredictable marine environments.

A standout feature of this marine radio is its Dual Watch and Triple Watch functions, which allow users to monitor two channels at once. This is particularly useful for staying updated on emergency broadcasts while also keeping an ear on your designated communication channel. The MR HH100 VP is capable of receiving all NOAA weather channels, providing critical weather information and alerts that can enhance safety on the water.

The radio also boasts a powerful input/output of up to 6 watts, allowing for extended range and clearer communication. The built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides long-lasting performance, ensuring you won’t run out of power when you need it most. For longer outings, the MR HH100 VP also includes an option for using standard AA batteries, offering flexibility when it comes to power supply.

In terms of usability, the radio features a simple interface with an easy-to-read LCD display, making it user-friendly even in low-light conditions. The channel selection is straightforward, and important features are easily accessible, enabling quick adjustments while keeping your focus on navigation and safety.

Another key technology in the MR HH100 VP is its noise-canceling microphone, which minimizes background noise, ensuring clear audio quality during communications. This is especially beneficial in windy or high-noise maritime environments.

Overall, the Cobra Electronics MR HH100 VP is a reliable and feature-rich marine VHF radio that is suitable for both casual boaters and serious mariners. With its durable construction, excellent range, and user-centric design, it provides peace of mind and a vital communication tool for anyone spending time on the water.