Standard Horizon GX1256S manual

GX1256S Page 1  Compact and Simple Operation  Capable of connecting an optional enhanced RAM+ second st a- tion remote microphone  RTCM SC-101 DSC Distress call with your exact position   DSC position request/send function and NMEA data input/out- put to connect to GPS Plotter  DSC Group call feature included  Backlit Keypad an[...]

GX1256S Page 2 T ABLE OF CONTENTS SAFETY/W ARNING INFORMA TION .......................................................... 4 FCC RADIO LICENSE INFORMA TION ...................................................... 5 ST A TION LICENSE ............................................................................................................... ........[...]

GX1256S Page 3 7 DIGIT AL SELECTIVE CALLING ........................................................ 29 7.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................... ............... 29 7.2 DSC SCAN ......................................................................................[...]

GX1256S Page 4 SAFETY / W ARNING INFORMA TION This radio is restricted to occupational use, work related operations only where the radio operator must have the knowledge to control the exposure conditions of its passengers and byst anders by maintaining the minimum separation distance of 0.6 m (2 feet). Failure to observe these restrictions will re[...]

GX1256S Page 5 FCC RADIO LICENSE INFORMA TION S tandard Horizon radios comply with the Federal Communication Commis- sion (FCC) requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Service. ST A TION LICENSE An FCC ship station license is no longer required for any vessel traveling in U.S. waters which is under 20 meters in length. However , any vessel re[...]

GX1256S Page 6 FCC NOTICE NOTICE Unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment may void com- pliance with FCC Rules. Any change or modification must be approved in writing by ST ANDARD HORIZON. NOTICE This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Thes[...]

GX1256S Page 7 GETTING ST ARTED ABOUT VHF RADIO The radio frequencies used in the VHF marine band lie between 156 and 158 MHz with some shore stations available between 161 and 163 MHz. The marine VHF band provides communications over distances that are essentially “line of sight” (VHF signals do not travel well through objects such as building[...]

GX1256S Page 8 COAXIAL CABLE VHF antennas are connected to the transceiver by means of a coaxial cable – a shielded transmission line. Coaxial cable is specified by it’s diameter and construction. For runs less than 20 feet, RG-58/U, about 1/4 inch in diameter is a good choice. For runs over 20 feet but less than 50 feet, the larger RG-8X or RG[...]

GX1256S Page 9 1 GENERAL INFORMA TION The ST ANDARD HORIZON QUEST+ is a VHF/FM transceiver designed for use in the frequency range of 156.025 to 163.275 MHz. The GX1256S re- quires 13.8V for operation and has a switchable RF output power of 1 watt or 25 watts. The transceiver is capable of RTCM SC101 DSC (Digit al Selective Calling) operation. The [...]

GX1256S Page 10 2 P ACKING LIST When the package containing the transceiver is first opened, please check it for the following contents: • GX1256S QUEST+ T ransceiver (with White/Black Microphone) • Mounting Bracket (with attaching hardware and hanger kit) • Owner ’s Manual • Quick-Reference Card • Power Cord • Dust Cover 3 OPTIONS MM[...]

GX1256S Page 11 4 INST ALLA TION 4.1 LOCA TION The radio can be mounted at any angle. Choose a mounting location that: • is far enough from any comp ass to avoid any deviation in compass reading due to the speaker magnet • provides accessibility to the front p anel controls • allows connection to a power source and an antenna • has nearby s[...]

GX1256S Page 12 4.3 ACCESSORY CABLE White : External speaker (+) Shield : External speaker (–) Blue : NMEA IN (+) from GPS navigation receiver Green : NMEA common Gray : NMEA OUT (+) to GPS navigation receiver Brown : T est port (for the Service T echnican) When connecting the external speaker or GPS navigation receiver , strip off about 1 inch ([...]

GX1256S Page 13 4.4 CONNECTION OF GPS WITH NMEA OUTPUT Additional Information: • The GPS must have the NMEA Output turned on and set to 4800 Baud in the setup menu. If there is a selection for parity select none. • For further information on interfacing /setting up your GPS. Please con- tact the manufacturer of the GPS receiver . • QUEST+ is [...]

GX1256S Page 14 4.6 OPTIONAL MMB-84 FLUSH MOUNT INST ALLA TION 1. Make a rectangular template for the flush mount measuring 2” H x 5-5/16” W . 2. Use the template to mark the location where the rectangular hole is to be cut. Confirm the space behind the dash or panel is deep enough to ac- commodate the transceiver (at least 6 inches deep). Ther[...]

GX1256S Page 15 4.7 OPTIONAL CMP25 RAM+ MIC INST ALLA TION 1. Connect the RAM+ MIC Cable to the RAM MIC CONNECTOR on the rear panel, then tighten the Cable Nut (See Figure 3). 2. Referring to Figure 3, make a 1.2” (30 mm) hole in the wall, then insert the RAM+ MIC Cable into this hole. Connect the Gasket and Mount Base to the RAM+ MIC Cable Conne[...]

GX1256S Page 16 5 CONTROLS AND INDICA TOR S NOTE This section defines each control of the transceiver . See Figure 4 for location of controls. For detailed operating instructions refer to chapter 6 of this manual. 5.1 CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS POWER SWITCH/VOLUME CONTROL T urns the transceiver on and off as well as adjusts the audio volume. T o turn[...]

GX1256S Page 17 Figure 4. Controls and Connectors[...]

GX1256S Page 18 [ WX ] Key Immediately recalls the previously selected NOAA weather channel from any channel location. Secondary use 1. Holding down the [ 16/9 ] key while pressing the [ WX ] key changes the mode from USA to International or Canadian. 2. Holding down the [ WX ] and [ SCAN ( MEM )] key while turning the power on resets the microproc[...]

GX1256S Page 19 [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] Key The [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key functions as the enter key . Secondary use Press the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key to access the DSC OPERA TION menu. The INDIVIDUAL and ALL SHIPS CALLS functions can be ac- cessed from the DSC OPERA TION menu. Press and hold the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key to access the RADIO or DSC set[...]

GX1256S Page 20 RAM MIC CONNECTOR Connects the QUEST+ to the enhanced RAM+ MIC (Remote Access Microphone). Refer to section 9 RAM+ MIC OPERA TION. ACCESSOR Y CONNECTION CABLE Connects the radio to a GPS, and an external speaker . DC INPUT CABLE Connects the radio to a DC power supply of 13.8V ANTENNA JACK Connects an antenna to the transceiver . Us[...]

GX1256S Page 21 6 BASIC OPERA TION 6.1 RECEPTION 1. After the transceiver has been installed, ensure that the power supply and antenna are properly connected. 2. Press and hold the VOL/PWR knob until the radio turns on. 3. Turn the SQL knob fully counterclockwise. This state is known as “squelch off”. 4. T urn up the VOL/PWR knob until noise or[...]

GX1256S Page 22 6.4 SIMPLEX/DUPLEX CHANNEL USE Refer to the VHF MARINE CHANNEL CHART (p age 60) for instructions on use of simplex and duplex channels. NOTE All channels are factory-programmed in accordance with FCC (USA), Industry Canada (Canada), and International regulations. Mode of op- eration cannot be altered from simplex to duplex or vice-v[...]

GX1256S Page 23 6.7 NOAA WEA THER ALERT In the event of extreme weather disturbances, such as storms and hurri- canes, the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) sends a weather alert accompanied by a 1050 Hz tone and subsequent weather report on one of the NOAA weather channels. When the Weater Aleart fea- ture is enabled (see sect[...]

GX1256S Page 24 6.9 EMERGENCY ( CHANNEL 16 USE ) Channel 16 is known as the Hail and Distress Channel. An emergency may be defined as a threat to life or property . In such instances, be sure the transceiver is on and set to CHANNEL 16. Then use the following procedure: 1. Press the microphone push-to-talk switch and say “ Mayday , Mayday , Mayda[...]

GX1256S Page 25 some of the channels available to non-commercial (recreational) boaters. Monitor your desired channel in advance to make sure you will not be inter- rupting other traffic, and then go back to either channel 16 or 9 for your initial contact. When the hailing channel (16 or 9) is clear , state the name of the other vessel you wish to [...]

GX1256S Page 26 radio is programmed to automatically reduce power to this limit on these channels. However , in certain situations it may be necessary to temporarily use a higher power . See page 18 ( [ H/L ( POS )] key) for means to temporarily override the low-power limit on these two channels. 6.13 PROHIBITED COMMUNICA TIONS The FCC prohibits th[...]

GX1256S Page 27 (Latitude) (Longitude) (No GPS Signal) 6. The channel number will blink during reception. 7. T o stop scanning, press the [ SCAN ( MEM )] , [ 16/9 ] , [ WX ] , or PTT key . 6.16 PRIORITY SCANNING ( P-SCAN ) 1. The priority channel is set to channel 16. 2. For priority scanning during M-SCAN, press and hold the [ SCAN ( MEM )] key , [...]

GX1256S Page 28 6.18 TIME INDICA TION Press and hold the [ 16/9 ] and [ H/L ( POS )] keys while turn- ing the transceiver on, the transceiver will display the TIME on the upper side, if connected to a GPS receiver . NOTE The TIME OFFSET should be set to local time in the DSC/RADIO setup mode when the radio is connected the GPS navigation receiver .[...]

GX1256S Page 29 7 DIGIT AL SELECTIVE CALLING 7.1 GENERAL W ARNING This radio is designed to generate a digital maritime distress and safety call to facilitate search and rescue. T o be effective as a safety device, this equipment must be used only within communication range of a shore- based VHF marine channel 70 distress and safety watch system. T[...]

GX1256S Page 30 7.2 DSC SCAN When the radio is shipped from the factory it is programmed so CH70 (the DSC channel) is scanned at all times. There is a selection in the SETUP MENU to disable the DSC SCAN. However , turning off DSC SCAN will dis- able the radio from receiving DSC calls i.e.: Individual Call, All Ships Call, Distress Call and Position[...]

GX1256S Page 31 7.3 USCG DSC W A TCH The USCG has plans to upgrade its VHF National Distress System (expected by 2005), so at the time of printing only larger vessels that are required to carry VHF DSC radios will be able to hear your distress transmission. 7.3.1 Maritime Mobile Service Identity ( MMSI ) What is an MMSI? An MMSI is a nine digit num[...]

GX1256S Page 32 7. Press the [ DOWN ] key to select “EXIT ,” then press the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key . 8. Press the [ UP ] or [ DOWN ] key to select “EXIT ,” then press the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key to return to the nor- mal operation. 7.4 ADDITIONAL DIGIT AL SELECTIVE CALLING INFORMA TION For additional information the USCG has an excellent[...]

GX1256S Page 33 5. If no acknowledgment is received, the distress call is repeated in 3.5 to 4.5 minute intervals until an acknowledgment is received. 6. T o cancel a Distress Call 1) Press the [ 16/9 ] key 2) Press the [ WX ] key 3) T urn off the radio 4) Press the [ DISTRESS ] key , then press the [ UP ] or [ DOWN ] key until “CANCEL” is show[...]

GX1256S Page 34 7.5.3 Receiving a distress relay call 1. A distress relay call is received. “RECEIVED RL Y” will appear on the LCD, and an emergency alarm will be heard. Channel 16 is automatically selected. 2. Press any key to stop the alarm. 3. Press the [ DOWN ] key to appear the receiving distress data (MMSI or S tation Name). NOTE Y ou mus[...]

GX1256S Page 35 7.6.2 Receiving An All Ship s Call 1. An all ships call is received. “RECEIVED ALL SHIPS” will appear on the LCD, and an emergency alarm will be heard. Channel 16 is automatically selected. 2. Press any key to stop the alarm. 3. Press the [ UP ] or [ DOWN ] key to select the receiving distress data: • MMSI or S t ation Name 4.[...]

GX1256S Page 36 key to move to next character . 7. Repeat step 6 as many times as necessary to complete the S tation Name (up to 12 characters). 8. Press and hold the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key to store the S tation Name and enable setting the MMSI ID code. 9. Press the [ UP ] or [ DOWN ] key to select the first digit of the MMSI ID code, the press t[...]

GX1256S Page 37 press the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key . 8. Press the [ UP ] or [ DOWN ] key to select “EXIT ,” then press the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key to return to the nor- mal operation. 7.7.3 Setting up Individual Call Ringer When a Individual call is received the radio will produce a ringing tone for 3 minutes. This selection allows the Individ[...]

GX1256S Page 38 tact. 5. T o cancel, if needed, press the [ UP ] or [ DOWN ] key un- til the “EXIT” icon appear . Then press the [ CALL/ SET ( MENU )] key . This procedure can be also canceled by pressing the WX or 16/9 key . 6. Press the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key to transmit the individual DSC signal. 7. After an INDIVIDUAL CALL is transmitted,[...]

GX1256S Page 39 3. Select type of reply function “ABLE” or “UNABLE” by using the [ UP ] or [ DOWN ] key . In the Automatic mode , the acknowledgment is transmitted automatically . 4. Press the PTT on the microphone and talk to the calling ship. 7.7.6 Setting Up the Call W aiting Function Allows the QUEST+ to be setup to reply (ABLE) or set [...]

GX1256S Page 40 7.8 ADV ANCED DSC CALLS 7.8.1 Group Call This feature allows the user to contact a group of specific vessels (example members of a yacht club) using DSC radios with Group call function to auto- matically switch to a desired channel for voice communications. 7.8.1.1 Setup a Group Call For this function to operate the same Group MMSI [...]

GX1256S Page 41 ber) number entry . 10. Press the [ UP ] or [ DOWN ] key to scroll through num- bers, 0-9. 1 1. T o enter the desired number and move one space to the right press the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key . Repeat pro- cedure until all nine spaces of MMSI number are en- tered. 12 . If a mistake was made entering in the name or the MMSI number re[...]

GX1256S Page 42 7.8.1.3 Receiving a Group Call 1. When a group call is received, the QUEST+ will produce a ringing alarm sound. 2. The radio automatically switches to the requested channel. 3. Press any key to stop the alarm. 4. Monitor the channel for the person calling the Group for a message. 5. If you want to respond, monitor the channel to mak[...]

GX1256S Page 43 7.8.2.1 Setting up Position Reply The QUEST+ can be set up to automatically or manually send your position to another vessel. This selection is important if you are concerned about someone polling the position of your vessel that you may not want to. In the manual mode you will see the MMSI or persons name shown on the display allow[...]

GX1256S Page 44 ceiver remains on channel 70 until position data is re- ceived from the polled vessel. 7. When the QUEST+ receives the position from the polled vessel it is shown on the radio display and also trans- ferred to the GPS Chart plotter . 8. If the QUEST+ does not receive a reply , the LCD will display “NO REPL Y .” Press the [ DOWN [...]

GX1256S Page 45 7.8.3 Position Send The feature is similar to Position Request, however instead of requesting a position of another vessel this function allows you to send your position to another vessel. Y our vessel must have an operating GPS receiver connected for the QUEST+ to send the position. NOTE T o transmit a Position Send Call, you must [...]

GX1256S Page 46 7.8.4 Receiving a geographical area call 1. When a geographical call is received, “RECEIVED GEO- GRAPHIC” will appear on the LCD, and an emergency alarm will be heard (different from DISTRESS). Then the requested channel from the other ship is automati- cally selected. 2. Press any key to stop the alarm. 3. Press the UP or DOWN [...]

GX1256S Page 47 8. RADIO SETUP MODE 8.1 LAMP ADJUSTING 1. Press and hold down the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key until “RADIO SETUP” appears. 2. Press the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key to select “LAMP .” 3. Press the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key to enable adjusting this item (The number in the display will flash). 4. Press the [ UP ] or [ DOWN ] key to se[...]

GX1256S Page 48 8.3 KEY BEEP ( ON or OFF ) 1. Press and hold down the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key until “RADIO SETUP” appears. 2 . Press the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key , then press the [ DOWN ] key to select “KEY BEEP .” 3. Press the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key to enable adjusting this item (The number in the display will flash). 4. Press the [ UP [...]

GX1256S Page 49 8.5 CHANNEL NAME CHANGE 1. Press and hold down the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key until “RADIO SETUP” appears. 2 . Press the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key , then press the [ DOWN ] key to select “CH NAME.” 3. Press the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key , then press the [ UP ] or [ DOWN ] key to select the channel on which you wish to change a n[...]

GX1256S Page 50 8.6 TIME OFFSET Sets the time difference between local time and UTC (Universal Time Coor- dinated or GMT Greenwich Mean T ime). T ime is displayed if the QUEST+ is connected to a GPS receiver . 1. Press and hold down the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key until “RADIO SETUP” appears. 2 . Press the [ CALL/SET ( MENU )] key , then press the[...]

GX1256S Page 51 9 RAM+ MIC OPERA TION If the enhanced optional RAM+ Mic ( CMP25 ) is connected to the remote microphone connector on the transceiver ’s rear panel, the transceiver can use the remote control operation except for a few functions. The RAM+ Mic supplied with 23 feet (7 m) of routing cable and can be extended up to 70 feet (21 m) usin[...]

GX1256S Page 52 VOLUME KEY ( VOL ) Activates the volume adjusting mode. Press this key to activate the volume adjusting mode. Press the microphone’s [  ] or [  ] to adjust the volume. POWER SWITCH ( PWR ) Press and hold down this key to turn to the transceiver and RAM+ Mic on and off. PTT ( Push-T o-T alk ) SWITCH Activates transmission. [ [...]

GX1256S Page 53 [ CALL/SET ] Key The [ CALL/SET ] key functions as the enter key . Secondary use Press the [ CALL/SET ] key to access the DSC OPERA TION menu. Press and hold the [ CALL/SET ] key to access the SETUP menu. [ DW ] Key W atches for a transmission on CH16 and another selected channel until either signal is received. (Dual watch) NOTE : [...]

GX1256S Page 54 sent, the radio will sound a Distress Alarm. 4. The transceiver “shadow-watches” for a transmission on CH16 or CH70 until an acknowledgment signal is received. “DISTRESS” and “W AITING” will appear on the LCD. 5. If an acknowledgement is received, select channel 16 and advise your distress situation. 6. If no acknowledgm[...]

GX1256S Page 55 9.3 DSC/RADIO SETUP MODE The CMP25 can access the DSC / RADIO setup menu (refer to section 7 “DIGIT AL SELECTIVE CALLING” and section 8 “RADIO SETUP MODE” for details). However , the LAMP , CONTRAST , and KEY BEEP menu item which is accessed from the CMP25 only controls the CMP25 ’s display and speaker . DSC/RADIO Setup mo[...]

GX1256S Page 56 10 MAINTENANCE The inherent quality of the solid-state components used in this transceiver will provide many years of continuous use. T aking the following precautions will prevent damage to the transceiver . • Keep the microphone connected or the jack covered at all times to pre- vent corrosion of electrical contact s; • Never [...]

GX1256S Page 57 10.2 F ACT OR Y SERVICE In the unlikely event that the radio fails to perform or needs servicing, please contact your Dealer or Marine Division of V ertex S tandard . An “RA” Return Authorization number is not necessary to send a product in for service. Include a brief note describing the problem along with your name, return add[...]

GX1256S Page 58 10.3 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART PROBABLE CAUSE No DC voltage to the transceiver , or blown fuse. Reversed power wires. Engine noise. External cable. Antenna. The power supply volt- age is too high or too low . External cable. Setting of the GPS navigation receiver . REMEDY a. Check the 12 VDC battery con- nections and the fuse. b. The VO[...]

GX1256S Page 59 1 1. CHANNEL ASSIGNMENTS T ables on the following columns list the VHF Marine Channel assignments for U.S.A. and International use. Below are listed some data about the charts. 1. VTS. Where indicated, these channels are part of the U.S. Coast Guard’s V essel T raffic S ystem. 2. Alpha channel numbers, that is, channel numbers fol[...]

GX1256S Page 60 5. Channels normally used by recreational boaters are those that include the term “non-commercial” in the Channel Use column of the chart. Some of these are shared with other users and some are used only in certain geographic regions. 6. Marine vessels equipped with VHF radios are required to monitor Channel 16 . VHF MARINE CHAN[...]

GX1256S Page 61 VHF MARINE CHANNEL CHART CH U C I S/D TX RX CHANNEL USE 23 X X D 157.150 161.750 Public Correspondence ( Marine Operator ) 23A X S 157.150 U.S. Government Only 24 X X X D 157.200 161.800 Public Correspondence ( Marine Operator ) 25 X X X D 157.250 161.850 Public Correspondence ( Marine Operator ) 26 X X X D 157.300 161.900 Public Co[...]

GX1256S Page 62 VHF MARINE CHANNEL CHART CH U C I S/D TX RX CHANNEL USE 79 X D 156.975 161.575 Port operation and Ship movement 79A X X S 156.975 Commercial 80 X D 157.025 161.625 Port operation, ship movement 80A X X S 157.025 Commercial 81 X D 157.075 161.675 Port operation, ship movement 81A X X S 157.075 U.S. Government Only - Environmental pro[...]

GX1256S Page 63 Port Operations 01A 1 156.050 156.050 63A 1 156.175 156.175 05 2 156.250 156.250 65A 156.275 156.275 66A 156.325 156.325 12 3 156.600 156.600 73 156.675 156.675 14 3 156.700 156.700 74 156.725 156.725 77 4 156.875 Intership only . 20A 12 157.000 Intership only . Navigational ( Bridge-to-Bridge ) 5 13 6 156.650 156.650 67 7 156.375 1[...]

GX1256S Page 64 4: Use of 156.875 MHz is limited to communications with pilots regarding the movement and docking of ships. Normal output power must not exceed 1 watt. 5: 156.375 MHz and 156.650 MHz are available primarily for intership navigational communications. These frequencies are available between coast and ship on a secondary basis when use[...]

GX1256S Page 65 12. W ARRANTY Marine Products Limited W arranty ST ANDARD HORIZON (a division of VERTEX ST ANDARD) warrants, to the original purchaser only , each new Marine Communications Product (“Prod- uct”) manufactured and/or supplied by ST ANDARD HORIZON against de- fects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service for a per[...]

GX1256S Page 66 ZON, appear to be defective or not up to factory specifications. ST ANDARD HORIZON may , at it s option, repair or replace parts or subassemblies with new or reconditioned part s and subassemblies. Parts thus repaired or re- placed are warranted for the balance of the original applicable warranty . ST ANDARD HORIZON will not warrant[...]

GX1256S Page 67 TIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED AS T O THE MERCHANT ABILITY OR FIT - NESS FOR A P ARTICULAR PURPOSE OR OTHER WISE, EXCEPT AS EXPRESSL Y SET FORTH HEREIN. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limit ation of incidental or conse- quential damages, or limitation on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations or exclusions[...]

GX1256S Page 68 ON-LINE W ARRANTY REGISTRA TION THANK YOU for buying ST ANDARD HORIZON (a division of V ertex S tandard) product s! We are confident your new radio will serve your needs for many years! Please visit www .standardhorizon.com to register the QUEST Ma- rine VHF . It should be noted that visiting the Web site from time to time may be be[...]

GX1256S Page 69 13 SPECIFICA TIONS Performance specifications are nominal, unless otherwise indicated, and are subject to change without notice. 13.1 GENERAL Channels ............................................ All USA, International and Canadian Input V oltage ........................................................................ 13.8 VDC ±20%[...]

GX1256S Page 70 MEMO[...]

GX1256S Page 71 MEMO[...]

GX1256S Page 72 Marine Division of VERTEX STANDARD US Headquarters 10900 Walker S treet, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A. ww w. standardhorizon.com Copyright 2004 VERTEX ST ANDARD CO., L TD. All rights reserved. No portion of this manual may be reproduced without the permission of VERTEX ST ANDARD CO., L TD. 0401b-0Y EM005N100[...]