information).

Setting It Up

Even though you can change your radio’s settings at any time, you will probably want to establish initial settings when you have turned it on for the first time. You will adjust some of these settings on an as-needed basis, but some settings might only be set once and not need adjustment at all.

Acquiring GPS Location

The VHF460 automatically acquires your current GPS location when it is turned on. Turn on the radio and point the antenna towards the sky. It will triangulate your location and save it.

## Do not let anything obstruct the antenna, such as a metal cabin ceiling.

Changing the Volume

To change the speaker volume, press VOLto enter Volume Setting mode.The VOL adjustment bar displays on the LCD. Press Channel Up or Channel Down to increase or decrease the volume levels (0 - 15).

Setting the Squelch Level

The VHF460 recognizes signals as transmissions if they exceed a signal strength threshold. Adjusting the squelch sets this threshold level. Increasing squelch requires a signal to be stronger to be seen as a transmission. If you set the squelch too high, you will risk not receiving transmissions that are lower than that threshold. Reducing the squelch allows weaker signals to be accepted. However, if you lower the squelch too much, you will hear white noise all the time.

While listening to a channel, press SQ/MEM to enter Squelch Setting mode. The SQ adjustment bar displays on the LCD. Press Channel Up or Channel Down to increase or decrease the squelch levels (0 - 15).

## Note: Setting the squelch level too high may prevent you from hearing weaker transmissions. If you are having difficulty hearing a transmission, try setting the squelch level lower.

Setting the UIC Channel Mode (USA/CAN/INT)

You can select marine channels for the USA, Canada, or International waters.

1.Press MENU/CALL. The Normal menu displays.

2.Select USA/CAN/INT and press GPS/ENT H/M/L. The USA/CAN/INT screen displays.

3.Select the mode you want and press GPS/ENT H/M/L.

Setting Key Lock

You can lock the keypad through the Normal menu. The icon displays when Keylock is on. Unlock it by pressing and holding MENU/CALL for 2 seconds.

Setting WX Alert Mode

From the Normal menu, select WX Alert mode to turn this mode ON for the radio to monitor weather channels and alert you to any broadcast weather alerts or notifications. Turn WX Alert OFF through the Normal menu as well.

West Marine VHF460 Radio Owner’s Manual

E-13

Page 17
Image 17
West Marine VHF460, VHF155 manual Setting It Up

VHF460, VHF155 specifications

West Marine VHF155 and VHF460 are two prominent marine VHF radios designed to enhance communication for boaters and ensure safety on the water. These devices come packed with features that cater to both recreational and commercial vessel operators, making them invaluable tools for any maritime adventure.

The West Marine VHF155 is a compact and cost-effective model that provides essential communication capabilities. One of its main features is a built-in DSC (Digital Selective Calling) functionality, which allows users to send distress signals directly to the Coast Guard or nearby vessels with just a push of a button. This feature significantly improves safety, as it can alert others of emergencies without needing to communicate verbally.

The VHF155 offers a user-friendly interface with a large, easy-to-read LCD display, making it simple to navigate through channels and settings. It operates on the international VHF marine band and has access to all US, Canadian, and international channels, ensuring that users can communicate effectively regardless of their location. Additionally, the VHF155 is rated IPX7 for water resistance, meaning it can withstand splashes and brief submersion, providing peace of mind in challenging weather conditions.

On the other hand, the West Marine VHF460 boasts advanced features that appeal to professional mariners and avid boaters alike. It includes an integrated GPS receiver, allowing users to send their position during a distress call accurately. This feature is crucial for ensuring rapid assistance from search and rescue teams. The VHF460 supports both analog and digital communication, offering versatility in transmission methods.

Another notable characteristic of the VHF460 is its powerful built-in speaker, which delivers clear audio even in noisy marine environments. The radio also supports multiple scanning features, including Priority Scan, enabling users to monitor various channels effectively. This ensures that operators never miss important communications while engaged in other tasks on board.

Both models supportNMEA0183, which facilitates interoperability with other marine electronics, allowing for seamless integration with plotters and other navigational devices. The devices are designed for easy installation, with intuitive mounting options and clear instructions.

In summary, West Marine VHF155 and VHF460 marine radios bring crucial communication technology to boaters. Whether prioritizing essential safety features or seeking advanced capabilities, these radios provide reliability, ease of use, and enhanced safety, making them go-to choices for anyone who spends time on the water.