7.SELECTING A WEATHER CHANNEL AND TURNING ON WEATHER ALERT

The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) broadcasts continuous weather reports and severe weather alerts during severe weather events. Your Humminbird® VHF255S is programmed to receive all NOAA weather channels.

If Weather Alert Mode is enabled, the ALT icon will appear on the display beside the WX icon, and then, if there is a weather emergency, your VHF255S radio will sound an alert and you should press any key to hear the Severe Weather Warning from NOAA. See U.S. Marine Channels for a list of NOAA channels and their frequencies.

To enter Weather mode and select a weather channel:

1.Press and hold the CANCEL/WX key for 3 seconds to enter Weather mode. The WX icon will appear on the LCD, and the channel will switch to the last selected weather channel.

2.Press the Up or Down Channel keys on the microphone handset or rotate the CH/ENTER knob back and forth to change the WX channel from 1 through 10.

3.Press and release the CANCEL/WX key again to exit Weather mode.

To enable Weather Alert mode:

1.While in Weather Mode, press and hold the CANCEL/WX key for 3 seconds to enter Weather Alert mode. The ALT icon will appear on the LCD to the right of the WX icon.

2.While in Weather Mode, press and hold the CANCEL/WX key again for 3 seconds to turn off Weather Alert mode. The ALT icon will disappear from the LCD.

3.If Weather Alert mode is turned on and a weather alert tone (1050 Hz) is broadcast from a NOAA weather station, your VHF255S will pick it up automatically and will sound an alert. Press any key to hear the weather alert voice message.

4.Press and release the CANCEL/WX key again to return to normal operation.

NOTE: Weather broadcasts originate only in the United States and can only be heard within and near the borders and territorial waters of the United States.

NOTE: During Weather mode, the PTT, SCAN, HI/LO and HI/LO/MEM keys are disabled and an error beep will sound if they are pressed.

33

Page 34
Image 34
Humminbird VHF255SW manual Selecting a Weather Channel and Turning on Weather Alert

VHF255S, VHF255SW specifications

The Humminbird VHF255SW is an advanced VHF marine radio designed for reliability and performance on the water. It is built for recreational boaters, offering a combination of essential features and cutting-edge technologies that enhance communication and navigation safety.

One of the standout features of the VHF255SW is its robust 25-watt output power, which provides extended range communication, allowing users to reach distant vessels and shore stations effectively. This high power output is crucial in emergency situations or when out on open water, ensuring that skippers can maintain contact when it matters most.

The radio is equipped with a built-in Class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) capability, which is designed to enhance safety. This feature allows users to send a distress signal automatically to the coast guard and other vessels within the vicinity, including their location coordinates. The DSC functionality can be a lifesaver in case of an emergency, providing peace of mind for boaters.

Another key characteristic of the VHF255SW is its large, high-contrast LCD display, which is easy to read even in bright sunlight or at night. The multi-color display features adjustable backlighting, ensuring users can navigate and communicate effectively in various lighting conditions. The intuitive user interface simplifies operation, making it accessible for even the most novice boater.

Additionally, the Humminbird VHF255SW is equipped with a built-in GPS receiver, which allows for enhanced positioning and mapping capabilities. This integration enables users to access real-time information, making navigation smoother and more efficient. The unit also supports navigating to specific waypoints and routes, making it an excellent tool for fishing and exploring new waters.

The radio is designed with a rugged, waterproof housing that meets IPX7 standards, meaning it can withstand submersion in water for short periods. This durability ensures that it operates reliably in rough marine conditions. The Humminbird VHF255SW also features a noise-canceling microphone for clearer communication, minimizing background noise during transmissions.

In summary, the Humminbird VHF255SW blends important marine communication capabilities with advanced technology. Its combination of high output power, DSC functionality, built-in GPS, and a user-friendly interface makes it an invaluable asset for any boating enthusiast, ensuring safety and confidence on the water. With its rugged design and reliability, the VHF255SW is a smart choice for those who demand quality and performance from their marine radio.