Standard Horizon Marine Radio GX1256S User Manual

QUEST+ GX1256S  
25 Watt VHF/FM  
Marine Transceiver  
Owner's Manual  
Compact and Simple Operation  
Capable of connecting an optional enhanced RAM+ second sta-  
tion remote microphone  
RTCM SC-101 DSC Distress call with your exact positionꢀ  
DSC position request/send function and NMEA data input/out-  
put to connect to GPS Plotter  
DSC Group call feature included  
Backlit Keypad and LCD  
Channel Name, GPS Time or GPS Position Repeating shown on  
the displayꢀ  
One-button access to Channel 16 and 9  
NOAA Weather Alert  
Versatile User-programmable Scan, Priority Scan and Dual  
Watch  
Microphone with Channel Selection  
Access to all US, Canadian and International Channels  
3 year waterproof warranty  
with GPS connected  
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS  
7
DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING ........................................................ 29  
7.1 GENERAL .................................................................................................................................. 29  
7.2 DSC SCAN ............................................................................................................................... 30  
7.3 USCG DSC WATCH ................................................................................................................ 31  
7.3.1 Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) ............................................................................ 31  
7.3.2 Progamming the MMSI ......................................................................................................... 31  
7.4 ADDITIONAL DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING INFORMATION ........................................... 32  
7.5 DSC DISTRESS CALL ............................................................................................................. 32  
7.5.1 Transmitting A DSC Distress Call ........................................................................................ 32  
7.5.2 Receiving a distress Call ..................................................................................................... 33  
7.5.3 Receiving a distress relay Call ........................................................................................... 34  
7.6 ALL SHIP CALL ....................................................................................................................... 34  
7.6.1 Transmitting an All Ships Call ............................................................................................. 34  
7.6.2 Receiving an All Ships Call ................................................................................................. 35  
7.7 INDIVIDUAL CALL .................................................................................................................... 35  
7.7.1 Setting up the Individual / Position Call Directory .............................................................. 35  
7.7.2 Setting up Individual Reply ................................................................................................... 36  
7.7.3 Setting up Individual Call Ringer ........................................................................................ 37  
7.7.4 Transmitting an Individual Call ............................................................................................ 37  
7.7.5 Receiving an Individual Call ................................................................................................ 38  
7.7.6 Setting up the Call Waiting Function .................................................................................. 39  
7.8 ADVANCED DSC CALL .......................................................................................................... 40  
7.8.1 Group Call ............................................................................................................................. 40  
7.8.2 Position Request ................................................................................................................... 42  
7.8.3 Position Send ........................................................................................................................ 45  
7.8.4 Receiving a geographical area call .................................................................................... 46  
RADIO SETUP MODE ........................................................................ 47  
8.1 LAMP ADJUSTING ................................................................................................................... 47  
8.2 LCD CONTRAST ADJUSTING ............................................................................................... 47  
8.3 KEY BEEP (ON OR OFF) ........................................................................................................ 48  
8.4 WEATHER ALERT (ON OR OFF) ............................................................................................ 48  
8.5 CHANNEL NAME CHANGE .................................................................................................... 49  
8.6 TIME OFFSET .......................................................................................................................... 50  
RAM+ MIC OPERATION..................................................................... 51  
9.1 RAM+ MIC CONTROLS .......................................................................................................... 51  
9.2 INTERCOM OPERATION ........................................................................................................ 54  
9.3 DSC / RADIO SETUP MODE .................................................................................................. 55  
8
9
10 MAINTENANCE .................................................................................. 56  
10.1 REPLACEMENT PARTS ........................................................................................................ 56  
10.2 FACTORY SERVICE .............................................................................................................. 57  
10.3 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART .............................................................................................. 58  
11 CHANNEL ASSIGNMENTS ................................................................ 59  
12 WARRANTY ........................................................................................ 65  
13 SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................... 69  
GX1256S  
 
Page 3  
SAFETY / WARNING INFORMATION  
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 bystanders by maintaining the minimum  
separation distance of 0.6 m (2 feet).  
Failure to observe these restrictions will result in exceeding the FCC RF  
exposure limits.  
Antenna Installation:  
The antenna must be located at least 0.6 m (2 feet) away from passengers  
in order to comply with the FCC RF exposure requirements.  
For roof top installation, the antenna must be placed in the center of the  
roof.  
ON-LINE WARRANTY REGISTRATION  
VHF. It should be noted that visiting the Web site from time to time may  
be beneficial to you, as new products are released they will appear on  
the STANDARD HORIZON Web site.  
PRODUCT SUPPORT INQUIRIES  
If you have any questions or comments regarding the use of the QUEST+,  
you can visit the STANDARD HORIZON Web site to send an E-Mail or  
contact the Product Support team at 800-767-2450 M-F 7:00-5:00PST.  
Page 4  
GX1256S  
 
FCC RADIO LICENSE INFORMATION  
Standard Horizon radios comply with the Federal Communication Commis-  
sion (FCC) requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Service.  
STATION 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-  
quired to carry a marine radio on an international voyage, carrying a HF  
single side band radiotelephone or marine satellite terminal is required to  
have a ship station license. FCC license forms, including applications for  
ship (506) and land station licenses can be downloaded via the Internet at  
www.fcc.gov/forms. To obtain a form from the FCC, call (888) 225-5322.  
RADIO CALL SIGN  
Currently the FCC does not require recreational boaters to have a Ship Radio  
Station License. The USCG recommends the boats registration number and  
the state to be used.  
CANADIAN SHIP STATION LICENSING  
You may need a license when traveling in Canada. If you do need a license  
contact their nearest field office or regional office or write:  
Industry Canada  
Radio Regulatory Branch  
Attn: DOSP  
300 Slater Street  
Ottawa, Ontario  
Canada, KIA 0C8  
FCC/ INDUSTRY CANADA INFORMATION  
The following data pertaining to the transceiver is necessary to fill out the  
license application.  
Type Acceptance ....................................................................... FCC Part 80  
Output Power.............................................1 Watt (low) and 25 Watts (high)  
Emission .......................................................................16K0G3E, 16K0G2B  
Frequency Range .................................................. 156.025 to 163.275 MHz  
FCC Type Number ................................................................. K6630053X30  
Industry Canada Type Approval.......................................... 511B-30053X30  
GX1256S  
 
Page 5  
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 STANDARD 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. These  
limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful  
interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses  
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in  
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to  
radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference  
will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause  
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be de-  
termined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to  
try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:  
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that  
to which the receiver is connected.  
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.  
Page 6  
GX1256S  
 
GETTING STARTED  
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 buildings, hills or trees). Actual transmission range depends much  
more on antenna type, gain and height than on the power output of the  
transmitter. On a fixed mount 25W radio transmission expected distances  
can be greater than 15 miles, for a portable 5W radio transmission the ex-  
pected distance can be greater than 5 miles in “line of sight”.  
SELECTING AN ANTENNA  
Marine antennas are made to radiate signals equally in all horizontal direc-  
tions, but not straight up. The objective of a marine antenna is to enhance  
the signal toward the horizon. The degree to which this is accomplished is  
called the antenna’s gain. It is measured in decibels (dB) and is one of the  
major factors in choosing an antenna. In terms of effective radiated power  
(ERP), antennas are rated on the basis of how much gain they have over a  
theoretical antenna with zero gain. A 3 foot, 3dB gain antenna represents  
twice as much gain over the imaginary antenna. The length of the antenna  
you choose, however, must also be related to the size of your boat.  
Typically a 3 foot 3dB gain stainless steel whip is used on a sailboat mast.  
The longer 8 foot 6dB fiberglass whip is primarily used on power boats that  
require the additional gain.  
GX1256S  
 
Page 7  
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-  
213/U should be used for cable runs over 50 feet RG-8U should be used.  
For installation of the connector onto the coaxial cable refer to the figure  
below.  
Adapter  
1/16''  
3/4''  
3/4''  
1 1/8''  
1/8''  
3/8'' 5/8''  
To get your coax cable through a fitting and into your boat’s interior, you  
may have to cut off the end plug and reattach it later. You can do this if  
you follow the directions that come with the connector. Be sure to make  
good soldered connections.  
Page 8  
GX1256S  
 
1 GENERAL INFORMATION  
The STANDARD 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 (Digital Selective Calling)  
operation.  
The transceiver operates on all currently-allocated marine channels which  
are switchable for use with either USA, International, or Canadian regula-  
tions. It has an emergency channel 16 which can be immediately selected  
[
from any channel by pressing the red 16/9 key. NOAA Weather channels  
]
[
can also be accessed immediately by pressing the WX key.  
]
Other features of the transceiver include: scanning, priority scanning, sub-  
mersible mic, high and low voltage warning, and GPS repeatability.  
GX1256S  
 
Page 9  
2 PACKING LIST  
When the package containing the transceiver is first opened, please check  
it for the following contents:  
GX1256S QUEST+ Transceiver (with White/Black Microphone)  
Mounting Bracket (with attaching hardware and hanger kit)  
Owner’s Manual  
Quick-Reference Card  
Power Cord  
Dust Cover  
3 OPTIONS  
MMB-84 ........................................................................Flush-Mount Bracket  
CMP25B/W ............ Remote-Access Microphone (RAM+ Mic, Black/White)  
CT-100 ............................................. 10-foot Extension Cable for RAM+ Mic  
101W .................................................................... White Extension Speaker  
201SW .................................................................. White Extension Speaker  
201SWZ........................................... White Flush Mount Extension Speaker  
201SB .................................................................... Black Extension Speaker  
201SBK............................................ Black Flush Mount Extension Speaker  
Page 10  
GX1256S  
 
4 INSTALLATION  
4.1 LOCATION  
The radio can be mounted at any angle. Choose a mounting location that:  
• is far enough from any compass to avoid any deviation in compass  
reading due to the speaker magnet  
• provides accessibility to the front panel controls  
• allows connection to a power source and an antenna  
• has nearby space for installation of a microphone hanger  
• the antenna must be mounted at least 3 feet from radio  
4.2 ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS  
CAUTION  
Reverse polarity connections will damage the radio!  
Connect the power cord and antenna to the radio. Antenna and Power Sup-  
ply connections are as follows (see Figure 1):  
Antenna  
Optional Speaker  
Water proof  
Deck Outlet  
Accessory Cable  
Fuse  
Red  
Black  
GPS Navigation Receiver  
Power Source  
Figure 1. General Installation  
1. Mount the antenna at least 3 feet away from the radio. At the rear of the  
radio, connect the antenna cable. It must have a PL259 connector. RG-  
8/U coaxial cable must be used if the antenna is 25 feet or more from the  
radio. RG58 cable can be used for distances less than 25 feet.  
2. Connect the red power wire to a 13.8 VDC 20% power source. Connect  
the black power wire to a negative ground.  
3. If an optional remote extension speaker is to be used, refer to section  
4.3 for connections.  
4. It is advisable to have a Certified Marine Technician check the power  
output and the standing wave ratio of the antenna after installation.  
GX1256S  
 
Page 11  
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: Test port (for the Service Technican)  
When connecting the external speaker or GPS navigation receiver, strip off  
about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of the specified wire’s insulation, then splice the ends  
together.  
Gray  
Blue  
Green  
Blue  
Green  
Brown  
Shield  
White  
External Speaker  
Wire Color/Description  
WHITE - External Speaker +  
Connection Examples  
( )  
(–)  
Connect to external 4 Ohm audio speaker  
Connect to external 4 Ohm audio speaker  
SHIELD - External Speaker  
GREEN - NMEA Ground  
BLUE- NMEA Input (+)  
GRAY- NMEA Output (+)  
(–)  
Connect to NMEA  
connection of GPS  
( )  
Connect to NMEA + output of GPS  
( )  
Connect to NMEA + input of GPS  
Page 12  
GX1256S  
 
4.4 CONNECTION OF GPS WITH NMEA OUTPUT  
Manufacturer/Model  
STANDARD HORIZON  
Furuno GP30, 36  
Wires  
Green  
QUEST+  
Green  
Gray  
Manufacturer/Model  
Wires  
Orange  
Black (GND)  
Gray  
QUEST+  
Blue  
Lowrance Portable  
Blue  
Green  
Blue  
Brown  
Blue  
Magellan Fixed Mount  
Magellan Portable  
Northstar  
White  
Blue  
Black (GND)  
Orange  
Black (GND)  
Yellow  
Green  
Blue  
Blue  
Green  
Blue  
Furuno GP1650, 1850  
Garmin Fixed Mounts  
Garmin Portables  
White  
Green  
Blue  
Black  
Green  
Blue  
Blue  
Black (GND)  
Yellow  
Green  
Blue  
Black (GND)  
Brown  
Green  
Blue  
Raytheon 420  
Brown  
Green  
Blue  
Black (GND)  
Yellow  
Green  
Green  
Blue  
Raytheon 520 / 620  
Raytheon RL SERIES  
Simrad  
Blue  
JRC GPS500  
Brown  
Green  
Blue  
Green  
Blue  
White  
JRC 100 SERIES  
Green  
Brown  
Green  
Blue  
Black  
Green  
Blue  
White  
JRC 200 SERIES  
White  
Brown  
Green  
Blue  
Black  
Green  
Blue  
Sitex Neptune, Nautilus  
Gray  
Lowrance Fixed Mount  
White  
Brown  
Green  
Black (GND)  
Green  
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 corresponded with following NMEA sentence:  
• NMEA-0183 version 2.0 or higher  
• GLL, GGA, RMC and GNS (RMC sentence is recommended)  
If you have further inquires, please feel free to contact us at:  
Phone: (800) 767-2450  
Web site: standardhorizon.com  
Email: marinetech@vxstdusa.com  
4.5 CHECKING GPS CONNECTION  
After connections have been made between the QUEST+ and the GPS, a  
small satellite icon will appear on the top right corner of the LCD display. To  
[
see additional GPS information press and hold the H/L POS key until the  
(
)]  
QUEST+ shows the Latitude and Longitude.  
NOTE  
The QUEST+ may be setup to show Lat/Lon or time received from a  
connected GPS. To setup and show time refer to Section 6.18.  
GX1256S  
 
Page 13  
4.6 OPTIONAL MMB-84 FLUSH MOUNT INSTALLATION  
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).  
There should be at least 1/2 inch between the transceiver’s heatsink and  
any wiring, cables or structures.  
3. Cut out the rectangular hole and insert the transceiver.  
4. Fasten the brackets to the sides of the transceiver with the lock washer  
nut combination, so that the mounting screw base faces the mounting  
surface (see Figure 2).  
5. Turn the adjusting screw to adjust the tension so that the transceiver is  
tight against the mounting surface.  
Bracket  
Adjusting Screw  
Lock-washer nut combination  
Figure 2. MMB-84 Flush Mount Instllation  
Page 14  
GX1256S  
 
4.7 OPTIONAL CMP25 RAM+ MIC INSTALLATION  
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 Connector using the Nut.  
3. Drill the four Screw holes (approx. 2 mm) on the wall, then install the  
Mounting Base to the wall using four screws.  
4. Put the Rubber Cap on to the Nut. The installation is now completed.  
Wall  
Gasket  
Cap  
RAM MIC Cable  
Nut  
Figure 3. RAM+ MIC Installation  
GX1256S  
 
Page 15  
5 CONTROLS AND INDICATORS  
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  
Turns the transceiver on and off as well as adjusts the audio volume. To  
turn the transceiver on press and hold this knob until the LCD turns on.  
To turn it off, press and hold this knob until the LCD turns off. When the  
power is turned on, the transceiver is set to the last selected channel.  
Secondary Use  
[
When the transceiver is turned on while the SCAN MEM and WX  
(
)] ]  
[
keys are held down, the internal microprocessor is reset. This clears the  
memory and all user-programmed settings, such as scan memory. This  
condition is known as the default condition, the same as when shipped  
from the factory. For a list of these defaults, see the section on Resetting  
the Transceiver’s Microprocessor.  
NOTE  
Resetting the microprocessor will not erase DSC MMSI and Direc-  
tory Call information.  
SQUELCH CONTROL (SQL)  
Sets the point at which random noise on the channel does not activate  
the audio circuits but a received signal does. This point is called the  
squelch threshold. Further adjustment of the squelch control will degrade  
reception of wanted transmissions.  
KEYPAD  
[
]
16/9 Key  
Immediately recalls channel 16 from any channel location. Holding down  
[
]
this key recalls channel 9. Pressing the 16/9 key again reverts to the  
previous selected working channel.  
Secondary use  
[
Please see secondary use for the WX key.  
]
Page 16  
GX1256S  
 
Figure 4. Controls and Connectors  
GX1256S  
 
Page 17  
[
]
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 microprocessor and erases scan channels from memory.  
This clears the memory and establishes the factory-set defaults. For  
a list of these defaults, see the section on Resetting the Transceiver’s  
Microprocessor.  
[
(
DW IC Key  
)]  
Watches for a transmission on CH16 and another selected channel until  
either signal is received. (Dual watch)  
NOTE: When the DSC SCANNING feature is enabled(see section 7.10  
DSC SCANNING), the radio watches for a transmission on CH16, an-  
other selected channel, and CH70 until either signal is received (Triple  
watch).  
Secondary use  
[
Press and hold DW IC key, when the optional RAM+ Mic is connected,  
(
)]  
intercom operation will operate between radio and RAM+ Mic.  
[
(
H/L POS Key  
)]  
[
Toggles between high and low power. When the H/L POS key is pressed  
(
)]  
while the transceiver is on channel 13 or 67, the power will temporarily  
)]  
[
switch from LO to HI power until the PTT is released. The H/L POS  
(
key does not function on transmit inhibited and low power only channels.  
Secondary use  
[
Press and hold the H/L POS key to display the Position Data on the  
(
)]  
LCD, when connected to the GPS receiver.  
[
(
)]  
SCAN MEM Key  
1. Starts and stops scanning of programmed channels.  
[
2. If held while the UP or DOWN key on the microphone are pressed  
]
[
]
[
]
[
]
or UP or DOWN key on radio are pressed, the radio will show the  
channels programmed in scan memory. This function will not work if  
the unit is scanning.  
NOTE: The priority channel is channel 16 only.  
Page 18  
GX1256S  
 
[
(
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 OPERATION  
menu. The INDIVIDUAL and ALL SHIPS CALLS functions can be ac-  
cessed from the DSC OPERATION menu.  
[
Press and hold the CALL/SET MENU key to access the RADIO or  
(
)]  
DSC setup menu. The following functions can be accessed in the menu.  
RADIO SETUP MENU  
DSC SETUP MENU  
[
]
DISTRESS Key  
Used to send a DSC Distress Call. To send the distress call see section  
6.2 (Sending a Distress Call).  
[
]
UP and DOWN Keys  
[
]
[
]
[
]
The UP and DOWN keys are used to select a desired channel and to  
[
select items in the DSC OPERATION and SETUP menus. The UP or  
]
[
]
DOWN key on the microphone can also be used to select channels.  
GX1256S  
 
Page 19  
RAM MIC CONNECTOR  
Connects the QUEST+ to the enhanced RAM+ MIC (Remote Access  
Microphone). Refer to section 9 RAM+ MIC OPERATION.  
ACCESSORY 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. Use a marine VHF antenna with  
an impedance of 50 ohms.  
PTT (Push-To-Talk) SWITCH  
Keys the transmitter.  
MICROPHONE  
Transmits the voice message with reduction of background noise.  
[
(
UP and DOWN KEYS  
)]  
[
(
)]  
[
(
The UP and DOWN on the microphone function the same as  
)] )]  
[
(
[
the UP and DOWN key on the front panel of the transceiver.  
]
[
]
[
]
16/9 Key  
[
Pressing the 16/9 key Immediately recalls channel 16 from any loca-  
]
[
tion. Press and hold the 16/9 key to recall channel 9. Pressing the  
]
[
]
16/9 key again will revert the radio to the last channel selected.  
Page 20  
GX1256S  
 
6 BASIC OPERATION  
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. Turn up the VOL/PWR knob until noise or audio from the speaker is at a  
comfortable level.  
5. Turn the SQL knob clockwise until the random noise disappears. This  
state is known as the “squelch threshold.”  
[
6. Press the UP or DOWN key to select the desired channel. Refer to the  
]
[
]
channel chart on page 60 for available channels.  
7. When a message is received, adjust the volume to the desired listening  
level. The “BUSY” indicator in the LCD is displayed indicating that the  
channel is being used.  
6.2 TRANSMISSION  
1. Perform steps 1 through 6 of RECEPTION.  
2. Before transmitting, monitor the channel to ensure it is clear. THIS IS AN  
FCC REQUIREMENT!  
3. Press the PTT (push-to-talk) switch. The TX indicator on the LCD is dis-  
played.  
4. Speak slowly and clearly into the microphone.  
5. When the transmission is finished, release the PTT switch.  
NOTE  
This is a noise-canceling microphone. The oval slot on the bottom of  
microphone should be positioned within 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the  
mouth for optimum performance.  
(
6.3 TRANSMIT TIME - OUT TIMER TOT  
)
When the PTT switch on the microphone is held down, transmit time is limited  
to 5 minutes. This limits unintentional transmissions due to a stuck micro-  
phone. About 10 seconds before automatic transmitter shutdown, a warning  
beep will be heard from the speaker(s). The transceiver will automatically go  
to receive mode, even if the PTT switch is continually held down. Before trans-  
mitting again, the PTT switch must first be released and then pressed again.  
GX1256S  
 
Page 21  
6.4 SIMPLEX/DUPLEX CHANNEL USE  
Refer to the VHF MARINE CHANNEL CHART (page 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-versa.  
6.5 USA, CANADA, AND INTERNATIONAL MODE  
[
1. To change the modes, hold the 16/9 key and press the WX key. The  
]
[
]
mode changes from USA to International to Canadian with each press of  
[
the WX key.  
]
2. “U” will be displayed on the LCD for USA mode, “I” will be displayed for  
International mode, and “C” will be displayed for Canadian mode.  
3. Refer to the VHF MARINE CHANNEL CHART (page 60) for allocated  
channels in each mode.  
6.6 NOAA WEATHER CHANNELS  
1. To receive a NOAA weather channel, press the WX key from any chan-  
[
]
nel. The transceiver will go to the last selected weather channel.  
[
2. Press the UP or DOWN key on the microphone or on front panel to  
]
[
]
select a different NOAA weather channel.  
[
3. To exit from the NOAA weather channels, press the WX key. The trans-  
]
ceiver returns to the channel it was on prior to a weather channel.  
Page 22  
GX1256S  
 
6.7 NOAA WEATHER 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 section 8.4 WEATER ALERT), the transceiver is ca-  
pable of receiving this alert if the following is performed:  
1. Program NOAA weather channels into the transceiver’s memory for scan-  
ning. Follow the same procedure as for regular channels under Section  
6.15.  
[
2. Press the SCAN MEM key once to start memory scanning or hold  
(
)]  
[
down the SCAN MEM key during memory scanning to start priority  
(
)]  
scanning.  
3. The programmed NOAA weather channels will be scanned along with  
the regular-programmed channels. However, scanning will not stop on a  
normal weather broadcast unless a NOAA alert is received.  
4. When an alert is received on a NOAA weather channel, scanning will  
stop and the transceiver will emit a loud beep to alert the user of a NOAA  
broadcast.  
[
]
5. Press the WX key to stop the alert tone and receive the weather report.  
NOTE  
[
If the WX key is not pressed the alert tone will be emitted for 5 minutes  
]
and then the weather report will be received.  
NOTE  
The Weather Aleart feature is also engaged while the transceiver is  
received on the one of the NOAA weather channel.  
6.8 NOAA WEATHER ALERT TESTING  
In the event of a major storm or other appreciable weather condition requir-  
ing vessels at sea or other bodies of water to be notified, the NOAA (Na-  
tional Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) broadcasts a 1050  
Hz tone that some marine VHF radios can detect. (Refer to above section  
“NOAA WEATER ALERT” on how to use this feature.) This tone, when de-  
tected, will produce a loud beep from the radio speaker to signal that a  
weather alert is being broadcast.  
In order to test this system, the NOAA broadcasts the 1050 Hz tone every  
Wednesday, sometime between 11 AM and 1 PM.  
GX1256S  
 
Page 23  
(
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,  
Mayday. This is  
,
,
” (your vessel’s name).  
” (your vessel’s name).  
2. Then repeat once: “Mayday,  
3. Now report your position in latitude/longitude, or by giving a true or mag-  
netic bearing (state which) to a well-known landmark such as a naviga-  
tion aid or geographic feature such as an island or harbor entry.  
4. Explain the nature of your distress (sinking, collision, aground, fire, heart  
attack, life-threatening injury, etc.).  
5. State the kind of assistance your desire (pumps, medical aid, etc.).  
6. Report the number of persons aboard and condition of any injured.  
7. Estimate the present seaworthiness and condition of your vessel.  
8. Give your vessel’s description: length, design (power or sail), color and  
other distinguishing marks. The total transmission should not exceed 1  
minute.  
9. End the message by saying “OVER”. Release the microphone button  
and listen.  
10. If there is no answer, repeat the above procedure. If there is still no  
response, try another channel.  
(
6.10 CALLING ANOTHER VESSEL CHANNEL 16 OR 9  
)
Channel 16 may be used for initial contact (hailing) with another vessel.  
However, its most important use is for emergency messages. This channel  
must be monitored at all times except when actually using another channel.  
It is monitored by the U.S. and Canadian Coast Guards and by other ves-  
sels. Use of channel 16 for hailing must be limited to initial contact  
only. Calling should not exceed 30 seconds, but may be repeated 3 times at  
2-minute intervals. In areas of heavy radio traffic, congestion on channel 16  
resulting from its use as a hailing channel can be reduced significantly in  
U.S. waters by using channel 9 as the initial contact (hailing) channel for  
non-emergency communications. Here, also, calling time should not exceed  
30 seconds but may be repeated 3 times at 2-minute intervals.  
Prior to making contact with another vessel, refer to the channel charts in  
this manual, and select an appropriate channel for communications after  
initial contact. For example, Channels 68 and 69 of the U.S. VHF Charts are  
Page 24  
GX1256S  
 
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 call and then “this is” followed by the name of your  
vessel and your Station License (Call Sign). When the other vessel returns  
your call, immediately request another channel by saying “go to,” the num-  
ber of the other channel, and “over.” Then switch to the new channel. When  
the new channel is not busy, call the other vessel.  
After a transmission, say “over,” and release the microphone’s push-to-talk  
(PTT) switch. When all communication with the other vessel is completed,  
end the last transmission by stating your Call Sign and the word “out.” Note  
that it is not necessary to state your Call Sign with each transmission, only  
at the beginning and end of the contact.  
Remember to return to Channel 16 when not using another channel.  
6.11 MAKING TELEPHONE CALLS  
To make a radiotelephone call, use a channel designated for this purpose,  
The fastest way to learn which channels are used for radiotelephone traffic  
is to ask at a local marina. Channels available for such traffic are designated  
Public Correspondence channels on the channel charts in this manual.  
Some examples for USA use are Channels 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 84, 85, 86,  
and 87. Call the marine operator and identify yourself by your vessel’s name,  
The marine operator will then ask you how you will pay for the call (tele-  
phone credit card, collect, etc.) and then link your radio transmission to the  
telephone lines.  
The marine telephone company managing the VHF channel you are using  
may charge a link-up fee in addition to the cost of the call.  
6.12 OPERATING ON CHANNELS 13 AND 67  
Channel 13 is used at docks and bridges and by vessels maneuvering in  
port. Messages on this channel must concern navigation only, such as meet-  
ing and passing in restricted waters.  
Channel 67 is used for navigational traffic between vessels.  
By regulation, power is normally limited to 1 Watt on these channels. Your  
GX1256S  
 
Page 25  
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 COMMUNICATIONS  
The FCC prohibits the following communications:  
• False distress or emergency messages:  
• Messages to “any boat” except in emergencies and radio tests;  
• Messages to or from a vessel on land;  
• Transmission while on land;  
• Obscene, indecent, or profane language (potential fine of $10,000).  
(
6.14 DUAL WATCH TO CH16  
)
1. Adjust the SQL knob until the background noise disappears.  
2. Select the channel you wish to dual watch to Ch16.  
[
3. Press the DW IC key. The display will scan between CH16 and the  
(
)]  
channel that was selected in step 2.  
If a transmission is received on the channel selected in  
step 2, the QUEST+ will dual watch to Ch16.  
[
(
)]  
4. To stop Dual Watch press the DW IC key again.  
(
6.15 MEMORY SCANNING M-SCAN  
NOTE  
)
• During scanning, the dot matrix area of the LCD will show M-SCAN or  
P-SCAN depending on the scan mode selected.  
• If GPS position is displayed this icon will be hidden.  
1. Adjust the SQL knob until background noise disappears.  
[
2. Select a desired channel to be scanned using the UP or DOWN key.  
]
[
]
[
(
)]  
Press and hold the SCAN MEM key, “MEM” will ap-  
pear on the LCD which indicates the channel has been  
programmed into the transceivers memory.  
3. Repeat step 2 for all the desired channels to be scanned.  
4. To DELETE a channel from the transceiver’s memory,  
[
press and hold the SCAN MEM key, “MEM” will disappear in the LCD.  
(
)]  
[
(
)]  
5. To start scanning, press the SCAN MEM key. Scan-  
ning will proceed from the lowest to the highest pro-  
grammed channel number and will stop on a channel  
when a transmission is received.  
Page 26  
GX1256S  
 
6. The channel number will blink during reception.  
)] [  
[
7. To 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, until P-SCAN appears in the LCD.  
Scanning will proceed between the memorized chan-  
nels and the priority channel. The priority channel will  
be scanned after each programmed channel.  
MEM CH.  
CH. 16  
CH. 70  
MEM CH.  
CH. 16  
CH. 70  
: When DSC Scanning method is enabled. Default is DSC scan is ON.  
3. The scanning will be performed while receiving the MEM  
CH (memorized channel).  
[
(
)] [  
] [  
]
4. To stop scanning, press the SCAN MEM , 16/9 , WX ,  
or PTT key.  
NOTE  
Triple watch (T/W) means the radio is watching CH70 for DSC Calls.  
Dual watch (D/W) means the radio is not watching CH70 for DSC Calls.  
6.17 POSITION INDICATION  
The transceiver has the ability to display the vessel’s position (LAT/LON) for  
Confirmation of the data, if connected to a GPS receiver.  
[
(
)]  
1. Press and hold the H/L POS key, dis-  
plays “LAT” and “LON” information al-  
ternately every two seconds.  
If the GPS receiver receives no signal,  
the display will be as shown in the illus-  
tration.  
(Latitude)  
(Longitude)  
2. To hide the position information, press and hold the  
)]  
[
(
H/L POS key again.  
(No GPS Signal)  
GX1256S  
 
Page 27  
6.18 TIME INDICATION  
[
]
[
(
)]  
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. To ad-  
just TIME OFFSET to your local time, refer to section 7.6 TIME OFF-  
SET.  
6.19 RESETTING THE TRANSCEIVER’S MICROPROCESSOR  
Resetting the microprocessor restores the initial, factory supplied conditions  
in the transceiver. These are called the default conditions.  
To reset the microprocessor, first turn the transceiver off. Then while press-  
[
]
[
(
)]  
ing the WX and SCAN MEM keys, turn the transceiver on. The default  
conditions are:  
• No channels in SCAN memory.  
• Channel 16 will be selected when the transceiver is turned on.  
[
• WX channel 01 will be recalled when the WX key is pressed.  
]
• Key beep will be on.  
NOTE  
Resetting the microprocessor will not erase DSC MMSI and Directory  
information.  
Page 28  
GX1256S  
 
7 DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING  
7.1 GENERAL  
WARNING  
This radio is designed to generate a digital maritime distress and safety  
call to facilitate search and rescue. To 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. The  
range of signal may vary but under normal conditions should be ap-  
proximately 20 nautical miles.  
Digital Selective Calling is a semi-automated method of establishing a radio  
call, it has been designated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO)  
as an international standard for establishing VHF, MF and HF radio calls. It  
had also been designated as part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety  
System (GMDSS). It is planned that DSC will eventually replace aural watches  
on distress frequencies and will be used to announce routine and urgent  
maritime safety information broadcasts.  
This new system will allow mariners to instantly send a distress call with  
GPS position (when connected to the transceiver) to the US Coast Guard  
and other vessels within range of the transmission. DSC will also allow mari-  
ners to initiate or receive distress, urgency, safety routine, POS Request,  
POS Send and Group calls to or from another vessel equipped with a DSC  
transceiver.  
WARNING STICKER  
A DSC Warning sticker is in-  
WARNING  
STICKER  
cluded with the QUEST+. To  
comply with FCC regula-  
tions this sticker must be  
mounted in a location that  
can be easily viewed from  
the location of the QUEST+.  
Make sure the chosen loca-  
tion is clean and dry before  
applying the sticker.  
WX  
DW  
CALT  
L
SCAN  
H/  
L
S
E
GX1256S  
Page 29  
 
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 Requests. If you want to use any of the functions  
the selection must be left ON.  
To Change DSC SCAN Method:  
[
1. Press and hold down the CALL/SET MENU key until  
(
)]  
“RADIO SETUP” appears.  
[
2. Press the DOWN key to select “DSC SETUP.”  
]
[
(
)]  
[
3. Press the CALL/SET MENU key, then press the UP  
]
[
or DOWN key to select “DSC SCAN.”  
]
[
4. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to enable setting this  
(
)]  
item (The number in the display will flash).  
[
]
[
]
5. Press the UP or DOWN key to select “on” or “oF (off).”  
[
6. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to store the selected  
(
)]  
setting.  
[
7. Press the UP or 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.  
Page 30  
GX1256S  
 
7.3 USCG DSC WATCH  
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 number used on Marine Transceivers capable of  
using Digital Selective Calling (DSC). This number is used like a telephone  
number to selectively call other vessels.  
NOTE  
THIS NUMBER MUST BE PROGRAMMED INTO THE RADIO TO OP-  
ERATE THE QUEST+ DSC FUCTIONS.  
How can I obtain an MMSI assignment?  
Boat US offers free MMSI numbers. Visit the following to register:  
7.3.2 Programming the MMSI  
NOTE  
User MMSI can be input only twice. If the user tries to input MMSI more  
than twice, the radio will show the display on the right.  
If the user needs to change the MMSI more than twice,  
the transceiver will have to be sent to Factory Service.  
Refer to the section 10.2 FACTORY SERVICE.  
[
(
)]  
1. Press and hold down the CALL/SET MENU key until  
“RADIO SETUP” appears.  
[
2. Press the DOWN key to select “DSC SET.”  
]
[
3. Press the CALL/SET MENU key, then press the  
(
)]  
[ ]  
DOWN key to select “USER MMSI.”  
[
4. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to enable setting this  
(
)]  
item (The number in the display will flash).  
[
5. Press the UP or DOWN key to select first number of  
]
[
]
[
(
)]  
your MMSI, then press the CALL/SET MENU key to  
define the setting.  
6. Repeat above step to set your MMSI (up to 9 digits).  
When the last number of your MMSI is in place, press  
[
and hold the CALL/SET MENU key to store your MMSI.  
(
)]  
GX1256S  
 
Page 31  
[
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 DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING INFORMATION  
For additional information the USCG has an excellent site that should be  
7.5 DSC DISTRESS CALL  
The QUEST+ is capable of transmitting and receiving DSC Distress mes-  
sages to all DSC radios. The QUEST+ may be connected to a GPS to also  
transmit the Latitude, Longitude of the vessel.  
7.5.1 Transmitting A DSC Distress Call  
NOTE  
To be able to transmit a DSC distress call a MMSI number must be  
programmed, refer to section 7.3.2 Programming the MMSI  
In order for your ships location to be transmitted a GPS must be connected  
to the QUEST+, refer to section 4.4 CONNECTION OF GPS WITH NMEA  
OUTPUT.  
1. Lift the red spring loaded DISTRESS cover and press  
[
the DISTRESS key. The “DISTRESS” will appear on  
]
the LCD.  
[
]
2. Press and hold the DISTRESS key. The LCD will count  
down (3, 2, 1) following this the QUEST+ will transmit  
the Distress Call.  
3. When the distress signal is sent, the “TX” icon will ap-  
pear on the LCD. After the message has been sent, the  
Distress Alarm will sound.  
4. The transceiver “shadow-watches” for a transmission  
between CH16 and CH70 until an acknowledgment sig-  
nal is received. “RECEIVED ACK” will scroll on the LCD.  
Page 32  
GX1256S  
 
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. To cancel a Distress Call  
[
1) Press the 16/9 key  
]
[
2) Press the WX key  
]
3) Turn off the radio  
[
]
[
]
[
]
4) Press the DISTRESS key, then press the UP or DOWN key until  
[
(
)]  
“CANCEL” is shown on the LCD. Press the CALL/SET MENU key.  
7. When a distress acknowledgment is received, a distress alarm sounds  
and channel 16 is automatically selected.  
8. To cancel the alarm, press any key.  
NOTE  
If the radio is receiving on a working channel or transmitting on a work-  
ing channel, DSC calls will not be received.  
7.5.2 Receiving a distress call  
1. A distress call is received. “RECEIVED DISTRESS” 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 Station Name  
• Latitude  
• TIME (UTC)  
• Longitude  
NOTE  
• If the received distress data does not include the position data, “NO  
POSITION DATA” will scroll on the LCD.  
• You must continue monitoring channel 16 as a coast station may re-  
quire assistance in any rescue attempt.  
GX1256S  
 
Page 33  
7.5.3 Receiving a distress relay call  
1. A distress relay call is received. “RECEIVED RLY” 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 Station Name).  
NOTE  
You must continue monitoring channel 16 as a coast station may re-  
quire assistance in any rescue attempt.  
7.6 ALL SHIPS CALL  
The All Ships Call function allows contact to be established with other vessel  
stations without having their ID in the individual calling directory.  
Also, priority for the call can be designated as Urgency, Safety or Routine.  
URGENCY Call: This type of call is used when a vessel may not truly be in  
distress, but have a potential problem that may lead to a  
distress situation (PAN, PAN,Call Type).  
SAFETY Call: Used to transmit boating safety information to other ves-  
sels (Security Call Type).  
This message usually contains information about an overdue boat, debris in  
the water. Loss of a navigation aid or an important meteorological message.  
7.6.1 Transmitting An All Ships Call  
1. Select the traffic channel (for voice communication).  
[
2. Press the CALL/SET MENU key.  
(
)]  
[
3. Press the DOWN key to select “ALL SHIPS.”  
]
[
4. Press the CALL/SET MENU key again.  
(
)]  
[
5. Press the DOWN key to select the nature of call (“UR-  
]
GENCY,” or “SAFETY”).  
[
6. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to transmit the se-  
(
)]  
lected type of ALL SHIPS DSC call.  
7. After the ALL SHIPS CALL is transmitted, the transceiver  
will wait on CH16. Call has been transmited.  
Page 34  
GX1256S  
 
7.6.2 Receiving An All Ships 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 Station Name  
4. Monitor channel 16 or traffic channel until the communi-  
cation is completed.  
7.7 INDIVIDUAL CALL  
This feature allows the user to contact another user vessel with a DSC radio  
and automatically switch the receiving DSC radio to a desired working chan-  
nel. This feature is similar to calling a vessel on CH16 and requesting to go  
to a another channel.  
7.7.1 Setting up the Individual / Position Call Directory  
The QUEST+ has a DSC directory that allows you to store a vessel or per-  
son names and the MMSI number associated with vessels you wish to trans-  
mit Individual calls, Position Requests and Position Send transmissions.  
To transmit an Individual call you must program this directory with informa-  
tion of the persons you wish to call, similar to a cellular phones telephone  
directory.  
[
1. Press and hold down the CALL/  
(
SET MENU key until “RADIO SETUP”  
)]  
appears.  
[
2. Press the DOWN key to select “DSC  
]
SETUP”.  
[
(
)]  
3. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to  
select “INDIVIDUAL DIRECTORY.”  
[
4. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to  
(
)]  
select “ADD.”  
[
(
)]  
5. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to enable setting this  
item.  
[
6. Press the UP or DOWN key to select a first character  
]
[
]
[
of the Station Name, then press the CALL/SET MENU  
(
)]  
GX1256S  
 
Page 35  
key to move to next character.  
7. Repeat step 6 as many times as necessary to complete  
the Station Name (up to 12 characters).  
[
8. Press and hold the CALL/SET MENU key to store the  
(
)]  
Station 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 the CALL/SET MENU  
(
)]  
key to move to next character.  
10. Repeat step 9 as many times as necessary to complete  
the MMSI ID code (9 digits).  
[
(
11. Press and hold the CALL/SET MENU key to store the  
)]  
MMSI ID code.  
[
12. Press the DOWN key to select “EXIT,” then press the  
]
[
(
CALL/SET MENU key.  
)]  
[
]
13. Press the UP or DOWN key to select “EXIT,” then press  
[
the CALL/SET MENU key to return to the normal op-  
(
)]  
eration.  
7.7.2 Setting up Individual Reply  
Allows setting up the radio to automatically (default setting) or manually  
respond to a DSC Individual call requesting you to switch to a working chan-  
nel for voice communications. When Manual is selected the MMSI of the  
calling vessel is shown allowing you to see who is calling. This function is  
similar to caller id on a cellular phone.  
[
(
)]  
1. Press and hold down the CALL/SET MENU key until “RADIO SETUP”  
appears.  
[
2. Press the DOWN key to select “DSC  
]
SETUP.”  
[
(
)]  
3. Press the CALL/SET MENU key, then  
[
press the UP or DOWN key to select  
]
[
]
“INDIVIDUAL REPLY.”  
[
(
)]  
4. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to enable setting this  
item.  
[
5. Press the UP or DOWN key to select “AU (Automatic)”  
]
[
]
or “oF (off).”  
[
(
)]  
6. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to store the selected  
setting.  
[
]
[
]
7. Press the UP or DOWN key to select “EXIT,” then  
Page 36  
GX1256S  
 
[
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 Individual Call ringer time to be changed.  
[
1. Press and hold down the CALL/SET MENU key until  
(
)]  
“RADIO SETUP” appears.  
[
]
2. Press the DOWN key to select “DSC SETUP.”  
[
3. Press the CALL/SET MENU key, then press the UP  
(
)]  
[
]
[
or DOWN key to select “INDIVIDUAL RINGER.”  
]
[
(
)]  
4. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to enable setting this  
item.  
[
5. Press the UP or DOWN key to select ringing time of a  
]
[
]
INDIVIDUAL CALL.  
4:3 minutes continuously  
3:15 times  
2:10 times  
1:5 times  
[
6. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to store the selected  
(
)]  
ringing time.  
[
7. Press the UP or 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.  
7.7.4 Transmitting an Individual Call  
This feature allows the user to contact another vessel with a DSC radio. This  
feature is similar to calling a vessel on CH16 and requesting to go to an-  
other channel. Select the traffic channel for voice communication.  
1. Select the traffic channel for voice communication.  
[
2. Press the CALL/SET MENU key.  
(
)]  
[
(
)]  
3. Press the CALL/SET MENU key again. The individual  
address will appear.  
[
4. Press the UP or DOWN key to select the individual you want to con-  
]
[
]
GX1256S  
 
Page 37  
tact.  
5. To 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, the transceiver will wait 8 sec-  
onds for the acknowledgment. If the reply signal is not received, the  
transceiver will transmit again.  
8. After the second INDIVIDUAL CALL is transmitted, if the  
reply signal is not received, “NO REPLY” icon will ap-  
pear on the LCD to prompt the user to send the call  
again or exit the mode.  
9. When an individual call acknowledgment “able to com-  
ply” is received, the established channel is automatically selected and  
an alarm sounds.  
10. When an individual call acknowledgment with “unable to comply” is re-  
ceived, the established channel is automatically selected.  
7.7.5 Receiving an Individual Call  
When receiving an individual call, an acknowledgment must be sent back to  
the calling station. Please refer to a selection in the 7.2.2 “Setting up Indi-  
vidual Reply” that allows the acknowledgment to be transmitted manually or  
automatically.  
Automatic Reply:  
1. An individual call is received. “RECEIVED INDIVIDUAL” will appear on  
the LCD, and an individual call alarm sounds. Then the  
radio automatically switches to the requested channel.  
2. Press any key to stop the alarm, then acknowledgment  
is transmitted automatically.  
3. Press the PTT on the microphone and talk to the calling ship.  
Manual Reply:  
1. An individual call is received. “RECEIVED INDIVIDUAL”  
will appear on the LCD, and an individual call alarm  
sounds. Then the radio automatically switches to the  
requested channel.  
2. Press any key to stop the alarm.  
Page 38  
GX1256S  
 
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 Waiting Function  
Allows the QUEST+ to be setup to reply (ABLE) or set the radio so it trans-  
mits a call that advises to the vessel the person is UNABLE to reply to the  
call at this time. This function is similar to a answering machine. When set  
up in UNABLE and a individual call is received the Individual call from the  
other vessel is logged in the CALL WAITING directory for you to review and  
call back at a later time.  
[
1. Press and hold down the CALL/SET MENU key until  
(
)]  
“RADIO SETUP” appears.  
[
2. Press the DOWN key to select “DSC SETUP.”  
]
[
3. Press the CALL/SET MENU key, then press the UP  
(
)]  
[
]
[
or DOWN key to select “INDIVIDUAL ACK.”  
]
[
4. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to enable setting this  
(
)]  
item.  
[
]
[
]
5. Press the UP or DOWN key to select “Ab (Able)” or  
“Un (Unable).”  
[
6. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to store the selected  
(
)]  
setting.  
[
7. Press the UP or 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.  
GX1256S  
 
Page 39  
7.8 ADVANCED 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 must be programmed  
into all the DSC VHF radios within the group of vessels that will be using this  
feature. The group MMSI is a 9 digit (first digit permanently set to “0”) that  
will allow other radios to call your vessel along with others to automatically  
switch to a working channel for voice communications. This function is very  
useful for yacht clubs and vessels traveling together that want to collectively  
make announcements on a predetermined channel.  
[
1. Press and hold down the CALL/SET MENU key until  
(
)]  
“RADIO SETUP” appears.  
[
2. Press the DOWN key to select “DSC SETUP.”  
]
[
3. Press the CALL/SET MENU key, then press the  
(
)]  
[ ]  
DOWN key to select “GROUP DIR.”  
[
4. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to enable setting this  
(
)]  
item.  
[
5. Press the UP or DOWN key to select “ADD,” then  
]
[
]
[
press the CALL/SET MENU key.  
(
)]  
[
]
[
]
6. Press the UP or DOWN key to select the first letter of  
the name of the group you want to reference in the di-  
rectory.  
[
7. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to store the first let-  
(
)]  
[
ter in the name. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to  
(
)]  
move the cursor one space to the right.  
8. Repeat step 6 and 7 until the name is complete. The  
name can consist of up to eleven characters, if you do  
[
not use all eleven characters press the CALL/  
(
SET MENU key to move to the next space. This method  
)]  
can also be used to enter a blank space in the name. To  
[
clear the previous letter, press the H/L POS key.  
(
)]  
9. After the eleventh letter or space has been entered, press  
[
and hold the CALL/SET MENU key to advance to the  
(
)]  
GROUP MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity Num-  
Page 40  
GX1256S  
 
ber) number entry.  
[
10. Press the UP or DOWN key to scroll through num-  
]
[
]
bers, 0-9.  
11. To 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 repeat pressing the CALL/SET MENU key  
(
)]  
[
until the wrong character is selected, then press the UP  
]
[
or DOWN key to correct the entry.  
]
[
13. To store the data entered, press and hold the CALL/  
(
SET MENU key.  
)]  
14. To enter another individual address, repeat steps 4 through 13.  
[
15. To exit this menu and return to radio operation mode press the 16/9  
]
key.  
7.8.1.2 Transmitting a Group Call  
1. Select the desired channel to use Group Call for voice  
communications.  
[
(
)]  
2. Press the CALL/SET MENU key.  
[
3. Press the DOWN key to select “GROUP.” (To cancel,  
]
[
select “EXIT” with the UP or DOWN key or press 16/  
]
[
]
[
]
9 key.)  
[
(
)]  
4. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to enable setting this  
item.  
[
5. Press the UP or DOWN key to select the “Group” you  
]
[
]
want to contact.  
[
6. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to transmit the Group  
(
)]  
Call signal.  
7. When the Group Call signal is sent, the LCD will be as  
shown in the illustration at the right.  
8. After the GROUP CALL is transmitted, all the radios in  
the group will switch to the designated channel.  
9. Listen to the channel to make sure it is not busy, then  
key the microphone and call the other vessels you de-  
sire to communicate with.  
GX1256S  
Page 41  
 
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 make sure it is clear, then  
press the PTT on the mic and talk to the calling ship(s).  
NOTE  
After a Group call is received, the time the call was made and the ships  
MMSI or vessels name will appear on the LCD.  
7.8.2 Position Request  
Advancements in DSC have made it possible to poll the location of another  
vessel and show the position of that vessel on the display of the QUEST+.  
Standard Horizon has taken this feature one step further, if any Standard  
Horizon GPS is connected to the QUEST+, the polled position of the vessel  
is shown on the display of the GPS chart plotter making it easy to navigate  
to the location of the polled vessel. This is a great feature for anyone want-  
ing to know the position of another vessel. For example you buddy that is  
catching fish, or finding the location of a person you are cruising with.  
NOTE  
The other vessel must have an operating GPS receiver connected to its  
DSC transceiver and must not have its transceiver set to deny position  
requests. (Refer the section 7.7.1 to enter information into the indi-  
vidual directory).  
Page 42  
GX1256S  
 
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  
allowing you to choose to send your position to the requesting vessel.  
[
1. Press and hold down the CALL/SET MENU key until  
(
)]  
“RADIO SETUP” appears.  
[
]
2. Press the DOWN key to select “DSC SETUP.”  
[
3. Press the CALL/SET MENU key, then press the UP  
(
)]  
[
]
[
]
or DOWN key to select “POS REPLY.”  
[
4. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to enable setting this  
(
)]  
item.  
[
]
[
]
5. Press the UP or DOWN key to select “AU (Automatic)”  
or “oF (off).” In “AU” mode, after a DSC POS Request is  
received, the radio will automatically transmit your ves-  
sels position. In “oF” mode, the display of the QUEST+  
will show who is requesting the position.  
[
6. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to store the selected  
(
)]  
setting.  
7. To exit this menu and return to radio operation mode press  
[
the 16/9 key.  
]
7.8.2.2 Transmitting a Position Request to Another Vessel  
NOTE  
To transmit a Position Request, you must setup the QUEST+ DSC Indi-  
vidual / Position Call Directory with the name of the vessel(s) or person  
and the MMSI of the DSC radio you wish to poll. To setup this directory  
refer to section 7.7.1 Setting up the Individual / Position Call Directory  
[
1. Press the CALL/SET MENU key.  
(
)]  
[
2. Press the DOWN key to select “POS REQUEST.”  
]
[
(
3. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to show the Individual  
)]  
Directory.  
[
4. Press the UP or DOWN to select a name.  
]
[
]
[
5. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to transmit the posi-  
(
)]  
tion request DSC call.  
6. After a DSC position request is transmitted, the trans-  
GX1256S  
Page 43  
 
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 REPLY.” Press the DOWN key and select  
“SEND” to transmit the call again or “EXIT” to exit the  
Position Request mode.  
NOTE  
If the QUEST+ does not receive position data from the polled vessel,  
the LCD will show “NO POSITION DATA.”  
7.8.2.3 Receiving a Position Request  
When a position request call is received from another vessel, a ringing alarm  
will sound and POS REQUEST will be show in the LCD. Operation and  
transceiver function differs depending on “POS REPLY” in the “DSC SETUP”  
menu setting.  
Automatically reply:  
1. When a position request call is received, a calling alarm sounds 4 times.  
Then requested position coordinates are transmitted  
automatically to the vessel requesting your vessels po-  
sition.  
2. To exit from position request display, press any key.  
Manually reply:  
1. When a position request call is received, “RECEIVED POS REQUEST”  
will appear on the LCD, and a calling alarm will sound.  
2. Press the any key to disable the calling alarm.  
3. Select type of reply function “ABLE” or “EXIT” by using  
[
]
[
]
the UP or DOWN key.  
)]  
4. When “ABLE” is selected, press the CALL/SET MENU  
[
(
key. And the requested position coordinates will be trans-  
mitted.  
5. To exit from position request display, press any key.  
Page 44  
GX1256S  
 
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. Your vessel must have an operating GPS receiver connected  
for the QUEST+ to send the position.  
NOTE  
To transmit a Position Send Call, you must setup the QUEST+ DSC  
Individual / Position Call Directory with the name of the vessel(s) or  
person and the MMSI of the DSC radio you wish to send your position  
to. To setup this directory refer to section 7.7.1 Setting up the Individual  
/ Position Call Directory.  
7.8.3.1 Transmitting a DSC Position Send Call  
[
1. Press the CALL/SET MENU key.  
(
)]  
[
2. Press the DOWN key to select the “POS SEND.”  
]
[
(
)]  
[
3. Press the CALL/SET MENU key, then press the UP  
]
[
or DOWN key to select a name in the directory.  
]
[
4. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to send your posi-  
(
)]  
tion to the selected vessel.  
7.8.3.2 Receiving a DSC Position Send Call  
When another vessel transmits their vessels location to the QUEST+ the  
following will happen:  
1. A ringing sound will be produced when the call is received.  
[
2. Press the 16/9 key to stop ringing  
]
3. The position from the vessel sending it's position will be shown on the  
display of the radio and also transferred to any Standard Horizon GPS  
Chart plotter if connected.  
GX1256S  
 
Page 45  
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 key to select the receiving dis-  
tress data:  
• MMSI or Station Name  
4. Monitor the traffic channel for an announcement from  
the calling ship or shore station.  
Page 46  
GX1256S  
 
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 select the desired level.  
]
[
]
3:High  
2:Mid  
1:Low  
0:OFF  
[
5. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to store the selected  
(
)]  
level.  
[
6. Press the DOWN key to select “EXIT,” then press the  
]
[
(
CALL/SET MENU key.  
)]  
[
7. Press the DOWN key to select “EXIT,” then press the  
]
[
(
CALL/SET MENU key to return to the normal opera-  
)]  
tion.  
8.2 LCD CONTRAST ADJUSTING  
[
(
)]  
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 “CONTRAST.”  
[
(
)]  
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 adjust the contrast.  
]
[
]
Available values are 7 “dark” through 0 “light.”  
[
(
)]  
5. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to store the selected  
level.  
[
6. Press the DOWN key to select “EXIT,” then press the  
]
[
(
)]  
CALL/SET MENU key.  
[
7. Press the DOWN key to select “EXIT,” then press the  
]
[
(
CALL/SET MENU key to return to the normal opera-  
)]  
tion.  
GX1256S  
Page 47  
 
(
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 or DOWN key to select “on” or “oF (off).”  
[
5. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to store the selected  
(
)]  
setting.  
[
6. Press the DOWN key to select “EXIT,” then press the  
]
[
(
)]  
CALL/SET MENU key.  
[
7. Press the DOWN key to select “EXIT,” then press the  
]
[
(
)]  
CALL/SET MENU key to return to the normal opera-  
tion.  
(
8.4 WEATHER ALERT 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 “WX ALT.”  
[
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 select “on” or “oF (off).”  
]
[
]
[
5. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to store the selected  
(
)]  
setting.  
[
6. Press the DOWN key to select “EXIT,” then press the  
]
[
(
CALL/SET MENU key.  
)]  
[
7. Press the DOWN key to select “EXIT,” then press the  
]
[
(
CALL/SET MENU key to return to the normal opera-  
)]  
tion.  
Page 48  
GX1256S  
 
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 name.  
[
(
4. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to enable adjusting  
)]  
this item.  
[
]
[
5. Press the UP or DOWN key to select the first charac-  
]
ter (letter, number, or symbol) in the name you wish to  
[
store, the press the CALL/SET MENU key to move to  
(
)]  
the next character.  
[
(
)]  
6. If you make a mistake, press the H/L POS key to move  
back, then re-select the correct letter, number, or sym-  
bol.  
7. Repeat step 5 as many times as necessary to complete  
the name tag (up to 12 characters).  
[
8. Press and hold the CALL/SET MENU key to store the  
(
)]  
new name.  
[
]
9. Press the DOWN key to select “EXIT,” then press the  
[
(
CALL/SET MENU key.  
)]  
[
10. Press the DOWN key to select “EXIT,” then press the  
]
[
(
CALL/SET MENU key to return to the normal opera-  
)]  
tion.  
GX1256S  
Page 49  
 
8.6 TIME OFFSET  
Sets the time difference between local time and UTC (Universal Time Coor-  
dinated or GMT Greenwich Mean Time). Time 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  
(
)]  
[ ]  
DOWN key to select “TIME.”  
[
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 select “Time Offset”  
from UTC. Be sure that when selecting the offset that  
the display shows “TIME –” for negative offset, or  
“TIME +” for a positive offset. Refer to Offset Time Table.  
See illustration below to find your offset time from UTC.  
If 0:0 is assigned, the time is the same as UTC.  
[
6. Press the CALL/SET MENU key to store the time off-  
(
)]  
set.  
[
7. Press the DOWN key to select “EXIT,” then press the  
]
[
(
CALL/SET MENU key.  
)]  
[
8. Press the DOWN key to select “EXIT,” then press the CALL/  
]
[
(
SET MENU key to return to the normal operation.  
)]  
OFFSET TIME TABLE  
NOTE  
During Daylight Saving time subtract 1 hour from the offset shown above  
and enter this offset in step 4 above.  
Page 50  
GX1256S  
 
9 RAM+ MIC OPERATION  
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) using three 23 feet extension cables model CT-100. The inter-  
com operation can be used between the RAM+ Mic and the transceiver.  
9.1 RAM+ MIC CONTROLS  
MEM  
IC  
WX  
SCAN  
DW  
CALL  
SET  
NAV  
16  
9
(
)
SQUELCH CONTROL SQL  
Activates the squelch adjusting mode.  
Press this key to activate the squelch adjusting mode. Press the  
[
microphone’s or key to adjust the squelch.  
]
[
]
[
When key is pressed and held down for 1 second or more, the squelch  
]
is turned off.  
GX1256S  
 
Page 51  
(
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-To-Talk SWITCH  
Activates transmission.  
[ ]  
H/L KEY  
[
Toggles between high and low power. When the H/L key is pressed  
]
while the transceiver is on channel 13 or 67, the power will temporarily  
[
switch from LO to HI power until the PTT is released. The H/L key does  
]
not function on transmit inhibited and low power only channels.  
[ ]( ) [ ]( )  
UP / DOWN KEY  
These keys are used to select channels, adjusts the volume and squelch  
level, and to choose the item selection of different functions (such as the  
DSC operation). In many ways, these keys emulate the function of the  
transceiver’s CHANNEL selector knob.  
[
]
16/9 KEY  
Immediately recalls channel 16 from any channel location. Holding down  
[
this key recalls channel 9. Pressing the 16/9 key reverts to the previous  
]
selected working channel.  
Secondary use  
[
]
[
Please see secondary use for the WX and MEM key.  
]
KEY PAD  
[
]
SCAN Key  
1. Starts and stops scanning of programmed channels.  
[
(
)]  
[
(
)]  
2. If held while the UP or DOWN key on the microphone are  
pressed, the radio will show the channels programmed in scan  
memory. This function will not work if the unit is scanning.  
NOTE: The priority channel is channel 16 only.  
Page 52  
GX1256S  
 
[ ]  
CALL/SET Key  
[
The CALL/SET key functions as the enter key.  
]
Secondary use  
[
Press the CALL/SET key to access the DSC OPERATION menu.  
]
[
Press and hold the CALL/SET key to access the SETUP menu.  
]
[
]
DW Key  
Watches for a transmission on CH16 and another selected channel until  
either signal is received. (Dual watch)  
NOTE: When the DSC SCANNING feature is enabled (see section 7.15  
DSC SCAN), the radio watches for a transmission on CH16, another  
selected channel, and CH70 until either signal is received (Triple watch).  
Secondary use  
[
Press and hold DW key, intercom operation will operate between radio  
]
and RAM Mic.  
[ ]  
NAV Key  
Press and hold this key, when connected to the GPS receiver, the LCD  
displays Position Data from the GPS.  
[
]
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.  
NOTE: If position is displayed, this icon will be hidden.  
[
]
[
]
2. Holding down the WX and SCAN key while turning the power on  
resets the microprocessor and erases scan channels from memory.  
This clears the memory and establishes the factory-set defaults. For  
a list of these defaults, see the section on Resetting the Transceiver’s  
Microprocessor.  
[ ]  
DISTRESS KEY  
Used to send a DSC Distress Call. To send the distress call:  
1. Lift the red rubber cover.  
2. Press and hold the Red button. The RAM+ display will  
count down (3-2-1) and then transmit the Distress call.  
3. When the distress signal is sent, Ch70 and “TX” icon  
will appear on the LCD. After the message has been  
GX1256S  
 
Page 53  
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 “WAITING” will appear on  
the LCD.  
5. If an acknowledgement is received, select channel 16  
and advise your distress situation.  
6. If no acknowledgment is received, the distress call is repeated in 4  
minute intervals until an acknowledgment is received.  
7. When a DSC Distress acknowledgment is received, a distress alarm  
sounds and channel 16 is automatically selected. The LCD shows  
the MMSI of the ship responding to your distress.  
RECEIVED ACK: acknowledgment signal is received.  
RECEIVED RLY: relay signal is received from another vessel or coast  
station.  
8. To cancel the DSC distress alarm signal from the speaker, press any  
key.  
9.2 INTERCOM OPERATION  
9.2.1 Communication  
[
1. Press and hold the DW key while in the “RADIO” mode, the mode is  
]
[
]
changed to “INTERCOM” mode. If the DW key pressed and held again  
the QUEST+ will revert to “RADIO” mode.  
2. When the “INTERCOM” operation is activated, “IC” is dis-  
played on the LCD.  
3. Press the PTT switch. The “TALK” is displayed.  
NOTE: A warning beep is emitted when the RAM+ Mic  
PTT switch is pressed while the transceiver microphone’s  
PTT switch is pressed.  
4. Speak slowly and clearly into the microphone, hold the  
microphone about 1/2 inch away from your mouth.  
5. When finished, release the PTT switch.  
9.2.2 Calling  
[
]
Hold down the DW key for 1 second or more, when the “INTERCOM” op-  
eration is activated. A calling beep is emitted twice from the transceiver  
speaker.  
Page 54  
GX1256S  
 
9.3 DSC/RADIO SETUP MODE  
The CMP25 can access the DSC / RADIO setup menu (refer to section 7  
“DIGITAL 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 mode from the CMP25:  
[
1. Press and hold down the CALL/SET key until “RADIO SETUP” menu  
]
appears.  
[
] [  
2. Press the / key to select “RADIO SET” or “DSC SETUP” menu.  
]
[
3. Press the CALL/SET key, then select the menu item you wish to work  
]
[
on by pressing the / key.  
] [  
]
[
]
4. Press the CALL/SET key.  
[
5. Press the / key to change the value or condition for the menu  
] [  
]
item, then press the [CALL/SET] key to save the new setting.  
[
] [  
]
[
]
6. Press the / key to select “EXIT,” then press the CALL/SET key  
to return to the normal operation.  
RADIO SETUP-menu  
DSC SETUP-menu  
GX1256S  
 
Page 55  
10 MAINTENANCE  
The inherent quality of the solid-state components used in this transceiver  
will provide many years of continuous use. Taking 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 contacts;  
Never key the microphone unless an antenna or suitable dummy load is  
connected to the transceiver.  
Ensure that the supply voltage to the transceiver does not exceed 16  
VDC or fall below 11 VDC.  
Use only STANDARD HORIZON-approved accessories and replacement  
parts.  
In the unlikely event of serious problems, please contact your Dealer or our  
repair facility. Address and phone numbers for this facility, as well as war-  
ranty information, are contained in section 11 WARRANTY.  
10.1 REPLACEMENT PARTS  
Occasionally an owner needs a replacement mounting bracket or knob.  
These can be ordered from our Parts Department by writing or calling:  
Marine Division of Vertex Standard  
US Headquarters  
10900 Walker Street, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A.  
Telephone (714) 827-7600  
Commonly requested parts, and their part numbers are listed below.  
Power Cord: T9023306  
Dust Cover: RA0437900  
VOL/SQL Knob Assy: RA0422200  
Mounting Braket (White): RA0448900  
Mounting Braket (Black): RA0459200  
Mounting Braket Knob (White): RA043770A  
Mounting Braket Knob (Black): RA045910A  
Microphone Hanger (White): RA0436000  
Microphone Hanger (Black): RA0458800  
RAM+ Routing Cable: S8101512  
RAM+ Panel Mount Cap: RA0525200  
RAM+ Rubber DSC Distress Cover: RA0523200  
Page 56  
GX1256S  
 
10.2 FACTORY SERVICE  
In the unlikely event that the radio fails to perform or needs servicing, please  
contact your Dealer or Marine Division of Vertex Standard.  
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 address, phone number, and proof of purchase.  
GX1256S  
 
Page 57  
10.3 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART  
TROBLESHOOTING CHART  
PROBABLE CAUSE REMEDY  
Transceiver fails to No DC voltage to the a. Check the 12 VDC battery con-  
SYMPTON  
power up.  
transceiver, or blown  
fuse.  
nections and the fuse.  
b. The VOL/PWR knob needs to be  
pressed and held to turn the ra-  
dio on.  
Transceiver blows Reversed power Check the power cable for DC volt-  
fuse when connected wires.  
to power supply.  
age, or replace the fuse (6A 250V).  
Make sure the red wire is con-  
nected to the positive (+) battery  
post, and the black wire is con-  
nected to the negative (-) battery  
post. If the fuse still blows, con-  
tact your Dealer.  
Popping or whining Engine noise.  
n o i s e f r o m t h e  
speaker while engine  
runs.  
Reroute the DC power cables  
away from the engine. Add noise  
suppressor on power cable.  
Change to resistive spark plug  
wires and/or add an alternator  
whine filter.  
Sound is not emitted External cable.  
from the external  
speaker.  
Check the polarity of the con-  
nected external cable.  
Receiving station re- Antenna.  
port low transmit  
power, even with  
transceiver set to HI  
power.  
Have the antenna checked or test  
the transceiver with another an-  
tenna. If the problem persists, con-  
tact your Dealer for servicing.  
“HI BATTERY” or The power supply volt- Confirm that the connected power  
“LOW BATTERY” age is too high or too supply voltage is not 17 volts or  
message is scrolled low.  
when the power is  
turned on.  
lower than 10 volts. Confirm that  
the generator has not malfunc-  
tioned.  
Your position is not External cable.  
displayed.  
Check the polarity of the con-  
nected external cable.  
Some GPS use the battery ground  
line for NMEA connection.  
Setting of the GPS Check the output signal format of  
navigation receiver.  
the GPS navigation receiver. This  
radio requires NMEA0183 format  
with GLL sentence as an output  
signal. If the GPS has a baud rate  
setting make sure to select 4800  
and parity to NONE.  
Page 58  
GX1256S  
 
11. CHANNEL ASSIGNMENTS  
Tables 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  
Vessel Traffic System.  
2. Alpha channel numbers, that is, channel numbers followed by the letter  
A (such as Channel 07A) are simplex channels on the U.S.A. or Cana-  
dian channel assignments whose counterparts in the International as-  
signments are duplex channels. International channels do not use “al-  
pha” numbers. If you call the Coast Guard on Channel 16, they will some-  
times ask you to “go to channel 22 Alpha.” This is a channel assigned  
to U.S.A, and Canadian Coast Guards for handling distress and other  
calls. If your radio is set for International operation you will go to Chan-  
nel 22 instead of 22A, and will not be able to communicate with the  
Coast Guard. To use Channel 22A, your radio must be set for USA or  
Canada operation, usually by a U/I/C (USA/International/Canada) con-  
trol or combination of controls. Channel 22 (without an “A”) is an Inter-  
national duplex channel for port operations. Some radios indicate an  
“A” adjacent to the alpha channels on the display; on others “alpha” is  
not indicated but the proper channel is selected based on the U/I/C set-  
ting.  
3. Bridge-to-Bridge channels (for example, Channel 13) are for use by bridge  
operators on intercoastal waterways and rivers. It is also used by marine  
vessels in the vicinity of these bridges for navigation and for communi-  
cating with the bridge operators. Note that a limit of 1 Watt is specified  
for these channels. See page 25 for additional information.  
4. The S/D column on the chart indicates either S (simplex) or D (duplex).  
Simplex means transmitting and receiving on the same frequency. Only  
one party at a time can talk, unlike a telephone. Be sure to say “over”  
and release your microphone push-to-talk switch at the end of each trans-  
mission. Duplex operation involves the use of one frequency for trans-  
mitting and a separate frequency for receiving. On channels specified  
as duplex on the charts, correct mode of operation is established auto-  
matically by your radio when you select a channel; you cannot change  
the mode. And you still must release the push-to-talk switch after each  
transmission in order to listen to the radio.  
GX1256S  
 
Page 59  
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 CHANNEL CHART  
CH  
01  
U
C
I
S/D  
D
TX  
156.050 160.650 Public Correspondence Marine Operator  
156.050 Port Operation and Commercial. VTS in selected areas  
156.100 160.700 Public Correspondence Marine Operator  
RX  
CHANNEL USE  
(
)
X
X
01A  
02  
X
S
(
)
)
X
X
X
X
D
(
156.150 160.750 Public Correspondence Marine Operator  
03  
D
03A  
04  
X
S
156.150 US Government only, Coast Guard  
(
)
X
D
156.200 160.800 Public Correspondence Marine Operator ,  
Port operation, ship movement  
04A  
05  
X
S
D
156.200  
Pacific coast: Coast Guard, East Coast:  
Commercial fishing  
(
)
X
156.250 160.850 Public Correspondence Marine Operator ,  
Port operation, ship movement  
05A  
06  
X
X
X
X
S
S
D
156.250  
156.300  
Port operation. VTS in Seattle  
Inter-ship Sefety  
X
X
(
)
07  
156.350 160.950 Public Correspondence Marine Operator ,  
Port operation, ship movement  
07A  
08  
X
X
X
X
X
X
S
S
S
156.350  
156.400  
156.450  
Commercial  
(
Commercial Inter-ship only  
)
X
X
09  
Boater Calling channel, Commercial & Non-commercial  
(
)
Recreational  
Commercial  
10  
11  
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
D
S
D
S
S
D
156.500  
156.550  
156.600  
156.650  
156.700  
Commercial. VTS in selected areas.  
Port operation. VTS in selected areas.  
(
Inter-ship Navigation Safety Bridge-to-bridge  
12  
13  
)
14  
Port operation. VTS in selected areas.  
)
(
- - - 156.750 Environmental Receive only  
15  
15  
(
Commercial, non-commercial, ship movement 1 W  
)
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
156.750  
156.800  
156.850  
16  
X
X
International Distress, Safety and Calling  
)
(
State Controlled 1 W  
17  
18  
156.900 161.500 Port operation, ship movement  
156.900 Commercial  
156.950 161.550 Port operation, ship movement  
18A  
19  
X
X
X
X
X
19A  
19A  
20  
156.950  
156.950  
US: Commercial  
Coast Guard  
X
X
X
X
157.000 161.600 Canadian Coast Guard Only,  
International: port operations and shipment  
Port operation  
157.050 161.650 Port operation, ship movement  
20A  
21  
S
D
S
D
S
157.000  
X
X
21A  
22  
X
X
157.050  
U.S. Government Only, Canadian Coast Guard  
157.100 161.700 Port operation, ship movement  
157.100  
22A  
X
X
US and Canadian Coast Guard Liaison and Maritime  
Safety Information Broadcasts announced on channel 16  
Page 60  
GX1256S  
 
VHF MARINE CHANNEL CHART  
RX CHANNEL USE  
157.150 161.750 Public Correspondence Marine Operator  
157.150 U.S. Government Only  
157.200 161.800 Public Correspondence Marine Operator  
CH  
23  
U
C
I
S/D  
D
TX  
(
)
X
X
23A  
24  
X
X
X
X
X
X
S
(
)
)
)
)
)
)
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
D
(
25  
26  
D
157.250 161.850 Public Correspondence Marine Operator  
(
D
157.300 161.900 Public Correspondence Marine Operator  
(
157.350 161.950 Public Correspondence Marine Operator  
(
157.400 162.000 Public Correspondence Marine Operator  
27  
D
28  
D
(
60  
D
156.025 160.625 Public Correspondence Marine Operator  
(
)
61  
D
156.075 160.675 Public Correspondence Marine Operator ,  
Port operation, ship movement  
61A  
62  
X
X
S
D
S
D
156.075  
U.S. Government Only, Canadian Coast Guard-  
Pacific Coast, Commercial Fishing-East Coast  
(
)
X
156.125 160.725 Public Correspondence Marine Operator ,  
Port operation, ship movement  
62A  
63  
X
156.125  
Public Coast: Coast Guard;  
East Coast: commercial fishing only  
(
)
X
X
X
X
X
156.175 160.775 Public Correspondence Marine Operator ,  
Port operation, ship movement  
63A  
64  
X
X
X
S
D
156.175  
Port Operation and Commercial. VTS in selected areas.  
(
)
X
156.225 160.825 Public Correspondence Marine Operator ,  
Port operation, ship movement  
64A  
65  
X
S
156.225  
U.S. Government Only, Canadian Commercial Fishing  
(
)
D
156.275 160.875 Public Correspondence Marine Operator ,  
Port operation, ship movement  
65A  
66  
X
S
D
156.275  
Port Opeations  
(
)
156.325 160.925 Public Correspondence Marine Operator ,  
Port operation, ship movement  
66A  
67  
X
X
X
X
S
S
156.325  
156.375  
Port Operations  
US: Commercial. Used for Bridge-to-bridge communi-  
cations in lower Mississippi River. Inter-ship only,  
Canada: Commercial fishing, S&R  
(
Non-commercial Recreational  
)
68  
69  
X
X
X
X
X
X
S
S
156.425  
156.475  
(
)
US: Non-commercial Recreational ,  
Canada: Commercial fishing only,  
International: Inter-ship, Port opertions and Ship movement  
(
Digital selective calling voice communications not allowed  
)
70  
71  
X
X
X
X
X
X
S
S
156.525  
156.575  
(
)
US, Canada: Non-commercial Recreational ,  
International: Port opertions and Ship movement  
(
Non-commercial Inter-ship only  
)
72  
73  
X
X
X
X
X
X
S
S
156.625  
156.675  
US: Port Operations, Canada: Commercial fishing only,  
International: Inter-ship, Port opertions and Ship movement  
74  
X
X
X
X
X
S
156.725  
US: Port Operations, Canada: Commercial fishing only,  
International: Inter-ship, Port opertions and Ship movement  
(
) (1W)  
) (1W)  
) (1W)  
)
75  
76  
X
X
S
S
156.775  
156.825  
Port Operations Inter-ship only  
(
Port Operations Inter-ship only  
(
77  
77  
78  
X
X
S
S
D
156.875  
156.875  
Port Operations Inter-ship only  
(
Port Operations Inter-ship only  
X
X
(
)
156.925 161.525 Public Correspondence Marine Operator ,  
Port operation, ship-movement  
(
Non-commercial Recreational  
)
78A  
S
156.925  
GX1256S  
 
Page 61  
VHF MARINE CHANNEL CHART  
RX CHANNEL USE  
156.975 161.575 Port operation and Ship movement  
156.975 Commercial  
157.025 161.625 Port operation, ship movement  
157.025 Commercial  
157.075 161.675 Port operation, ship movement  
CH  
79  
U
X
X
X
C
X
X
X
I
S/D  
D
TX  
X
79A  
80  
S
X
X
D
80A  
81  
S
D
81A  
S
157.075  
U.S. Government Only -  
Environmental protection operations.  
(
)
82  
X
X
D
157.125 161.725 Public Correspondence Marine Operator ,  
Port operation, ship movement  
82A  
83  
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
S
D
S
D
D
D
D
D
D
S
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
157.125  
157.175 161.775 Canadian Coast Guard Only  
157.175 U.S. Government Only, Canadian Coast Guard Only  
157.175 161.775 Public Correspondence Marine Operator  
U.S. Government Only, Canadian Coast Guard Only  
83A  
83  
(
)
)
)
)
)
X
X
X
X
X
X
(
84  
85  
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
157.225 161.825 Public Correspondence Marine Operator  
(
157.275 161.875 Public Correspondence Marine Operator  
(
157.325 161.925 Public Correspondence Marine Operator  
86  
87  
(
157.375 161.975 Public Correspondence Marine Operator  
(
)
88  
157.425 162.025 Public Correspondence ship-to-coast  
157.425 Commercial, Inter-ship Only  
- - - 162.550 Weather receive only  
88A  
WX01  
WX02  
WX03  
WX04  
WX05  
WX06  
WX07  
WX08  
WX09  
WX10  
(
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
(
- - - 162.400 Weather receive only  
(
- - - 162.475 Weather receive only  
(
- - - 162.425 Weather receive only  
(
- - - 162.450 Weather receive only  
(
- - - 162.500 Weather receive only  
(
- - - 162.525 Weather receive only  
(
- - - 161.650 Weather receive only  
(
- - - 161.775 Weather receive only  
(
- - - 163.275 Weather receive only  
The above BOLD channels are not for use of the general public in U.S. waters, unless proper  
authorization is given.  
Page 62  
GX1256S  
 
Points of communica-  
tion (Intership and be-  
tween coast and ship  
unless otherwise indi-  
cated)  
Points of communica-  
tion (Intership and be-  
tween coast and ship  
unless otherwise indi-  
cated)  
Carrier frequency  
Carrier frequency  
(
)
(
)
MHz  
MHz  
Channel  
designator  
Channel  
designator  
Ship  
Coast  
Ship  
Coast  
transmit transmit  
transmit transmit  
Port Operations  
Noncommercial  
01A1  
63A1  
052  
65A  
66A  
123  
73  
156.050 156.050  
156.175 156.175  
156.250 156.250  
156.275 156.275  
156.325 156.325  
156.600 156.600  
156.675 156.675  
156.700 156.700  
156.725 156.725  
156.875  
6817  
0916  
69  
71  
72  
78A  
79A  
80A  
6714  
156.425 156.425  
156.450 156.450  
156.475 156.475  
156.575 156.575  
156.625 ........ Intership only.  
156.925 156.925  
156.975 156.975 Great Lakes only.  
157.025 157.025 Do.  
156.375 ....... Internship only.  
143  
74  
774  
Intership only.  
Intership only.  
Distress, Safety and Calling  
156.800 156.800 EPRIB  
Intership Safety  
20A12 157.000  
16  
06  
Navigational (Bridge-to-Bridge)5  
136  
677  
156.650 156.650  
156.375 156.375  
156.300 ........ a. Intership, or b.  
For SAR: Ship and  
aircraft for the U.S.  
Commercial  
01A1  
63A1  
07A  
677  
08  
09  
156.050 156.050  
156.175 156.175  
156.350 156.350  
156.375  
156.400 ........ Do.  
156.450 156.450  
156.500 156.500  
156.550 156.550  
156.900 156.900  
156.950 156.950  
156.975 156.975  
Coast Guard.  
Environmental  
........ 156.750 Coast to ship only.  
Maritime Control  
1513  
Intership only.  
179,10  
156.850 156.850  
10  
113  
Liaison, U.S. Coast Guard  
18A  
19A  
79A  
80A  
88A8  
7214  
22A11 157.100 157.100 Ship, aircraft, and  
coast stations of  
the U.S. Coast  
Guard and at Lake  
Mead, Nev., ship  
and coast stations  
of the National  
Park Service, U.S.  
Department of the  
Interior.  
157.025 157.025  
157.425 ........ Intership only.  
156.625 ........ Internship only.  
Digital Selective Calling  
7015  
156.525 156.525  
1: 156.050 MHz and 156.175 MHz are available for port operations and commercial communications  
purposes when used only within the U.S. Coast Guard designated Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)  
area of New Orleans, on the lower Mississippi River from the various pass entrances in the Gulf of  
Mexico to Devil’s Swamp Light at River Mile 242.4 above head of passes near Baton Rouge.  
2: 156.250 MHz is available for port operations communications use only within the U.S. Coast Guard  
designated VTS radio protection areas of New Orleans and Houston described in Sec. 80.383.  
156.250 MHz is available for intership port operations communications used only within the area of  
Los Angeles and Long Beach harbors, within a 25- nautical mile radius of Point Fermin, California.  
3: 156.550 MHz, 156.600 MHz and 156.700 MHz are available in the U.S. Coast Guard designated  
port areas only for VTS communications and in the Great Lakes available primarily for communica-  
tions relating to the movement of ships in sectors designated by the St. Lawrence Seaway Develop-  
ment Corporation or the U.S. Coast Guard. The use of these frequencies outside VTS and ship  
movement sector protected areas is permitted provided they cause no interference to VTS and ship  
movement communications in thier respective designated sectors.  
GX1256S  
 
Page 63  
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 used on or in  
the vicinity of locks or drawbridges. Normal output power must not exceed 1 watt. Maximum output  
power must not exceed 10 watts for coast stations or 25 watts for ship stations.  
6: On the Great Lakes, in addition to bridge-to-bridge communications, 156.650 MHz is available for  
vessel control purposes in established vessel traffic systems. 156.650 MHz is not available for use in  
the Mississippi River from South Pass Lighted Whistle Buoy “2” and Southwest Pass entrance  
Midchannel Lighted Whistle Buoy to mile 242.4 above Head of Passes near Baton Rouge. Addition-  
ally it is not available for use in the Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet, the Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet  
Canal, and the Inner Harbor Navigational Canal, except to aid the transition from these areas.  
7: Use of 156.375 MHz is available for navigational communications only in the Mississippi River from  
South Pass Lighted Whistle Buoy “2” and Southwest Pass entrance Mid-channel Lighted Whistle  
Buoy to mile 242.4 above head of Passes near Baton Rouge, and in addition over the full length of  
the Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet Canal from entrance to its junction with the Inner Harbor Navigation  
Canal, and over the ull length of the Inner Harbor Navigation Canal from its junction with the Missis-  
sippi River to its entry to Lake Pontchartrain at the New Seabrook vehicular bridge.  
8: Within 120 km (75 miles) of the United States/Canada border, in the area of the Puget Sound and  
the Strait of Juan de Fuca and its approaches, 157.425 MHz is half of the duplex pair designated as  
Channel 88. In this area, Channel 88 is available to ship stations for communications with public  
coast stations only. More than 120 km (75 miles) from the United States/Canada border in the area  
of the Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, its approaches, the Great Lakes, and the St.  
Lawrence Seaway, 157.425 MHz is available for intership and commercial communications. Outside  
Puget Sound area and its approaches and the Great Lakes, 157.425 MHz is also available for  
communications between commercial fishing vessels and associated aircraft while engaged in com-  
mercial fishing activities.  
9: When the frequency 156.850 MHz is authorized, it may be used additionally for search and rescue  
training exercises conducted by state or local governments.  
10: The frequency 156.850 MHz is additionally available to coast stations on the Great Lakes for trans-  
mission of scheduled Coded Marine Weather Forecasts (MAFOR), Great Lakes Weather Broadcast  
(LAWEB) and nscheduled Notices to Mariners or Bulletins. F3C and J3C emissions are permitted.  
Coast Stations on the Great Lakes must cease weather broadcasts which cause interference to  
stations operating on 156.800 MHz until the interference problem is resolved.  
11: The frequency 157.100 MHz is authorized for search and rescuetraining exercises by state or local  
government in conjunction with U.S. Coast Guard stations. Prior U.S. Coast Guard approval is re-  
quired. Use must cease immediately on U.S. Coast Guard request.  
12: The duplex pair for channel 20 (157.000/161.600 MHz) may be used for ship to coast station com-  
munications.  
13: Available for assignment to coast stations, the use of which is in accord with an agreed program, for  
the broadcast of information to ship stations concerning the environmental conditions in which ves-  
sels operate, i.e., weather; sea conditions; time signals; notices to mariners; and hazards to naviga-  
tion.  
14: Available only in the Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.  
15: The frequency 156.525 MHz is to be used exclusively for distress, safety and calling using digital  
selective calling techniques. No other uses are permitted.  
16: The frequency 156.450 MHz is available for intership, ship and coast general purpose calling by  
noncommercial vessels, such as recreational boats and private coast stations.  
17: The frequency 156.425 MHz is assigned by rule to private coast stations in Alaska for facsimile  
transmissions as well as voice communications.  
Page 64  
GX1256S  
 
12. WARRANTY  
Marine Products Limited Warranty  
STANDARD HORIZON (a division of VERTEX STANDARD) warrants, to the  
original purchaser only, each new Marine Communications Product (“Prod-  
uct”) manufactured and/or supplied by STANDARD HORIZON against de-  
fects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service for a  
period of time from the date of purchase as follows:  
Fixed Mount and Portable Transceivers  
1 year - if purchased before 01/01/91  
3 years - if purchased between 01/01/91 and 01/01/94  
3 years Waterproof - if purchased after 01/01/94  
Loud hailers  
1 year - if purchased before 01/01/91  
3 years - if purchased after 01/01/91  
Associated Chargers  
1 year - if purchased before 01/01/91  
3 years - if purchased after 01/01/91  
Associated Batteries - 18 months. Note: Batteries will be deemed deflec-  
tive only if storage capacity drops below 80% of rated capacity or if leakage  
develops.  
Associated Accessories - 1 year. Includes: Microphones/Handsets, Exter-  
nal Speakers, Antennas, Carrying Accessories, Power Supplies, and Sig-  
naling Boards.  
To receive warranty service, the purchaser must deliver the Product, trans-  
portation and insurance prepaid, to STANDARD HORIZON (a division of  
VERTEX STANDARD). Include proof of purchase indicating model. serial  
number, and date of purchase. STANDARD HORIZON will return the Prod-  
uct to the purchaser freight prepaid. Products purchased prior to January 1,  
1991 will bear the STANDARD HORIZON warranty terms in effect prior to  
that date.  
In the event of a defect, malfunction or failure of the Product during the  
warranty period, STANDARD HORIZON’s liability for any breach of contract  
or any breach of express or implied warranties in connection with the sale of  
Products shall be limited solely to repair or replacement, at its option, of the  
Product or part(s) therein which, upon examination by STANDARD HORI-  
GX1256S  
 
Page 65  
ZON, appear to be defective or not up to factory specifications. STANDARD  
HORIZON may, at its option, repair or replace parts or subassemblies with  
new or reconditioned parts and subassemblies. Parts thus repaired or re-  
placed are warranted for the balance of the original applicable warranty.  
STANDARD HORIZON will not warrant installation, maintenance or service  
of the Products. In all instances, STANDARD HORIZON’s liability for dam-  
ages shall not exceed the purchase price of the defective Product.  
This warranty only extends to Products sold within the 50 States of the United  
States of America and the District of Columbia.  
STANDARD HORIZON will pay all labor to repair the product and replace-  
ment parts charges incurred in providing the warranty service except where  
purchaser abuse or other qualifying exceptions exist. The purchaser must  
pay any transportation expenses incurred in returning the Product to STAN-  
DARD HORIZON for service.  
This limited warranty does not extend to any Product which has been sub-  
jected to misuse, neglect, accident, incorrect wiring by anyone other than  
STANDARD HORIZON, improper installation, or subjected to use in viola-  
tion of instructions furnished by STANDARD HORIZON, nor does this war-  
ranty extend to Products on which the serial number has been removed,  
defaced, or changed. STANDARD HORIZON cannot be responsible in any  
way for ancillary equipment not furnished by STANDARD HORIZON which  
is attached to or used in connection with STANDARD HORIZON’s Products,  
or for the operation of the Product with any ancillary equipment, and all such  
equipment is expressly excluded from this warranty. STANDARD HORIZON  
disclaims liability for range, coverage, or operation of the Product and ancil-  
lary equipment as a whole under this warranty. STANDARD HORIZON re-  
serves the right to make changes or improvements in Products, during sub-  
sequent production, without incurring the obligation to install such changes  
or improvements on previously manufactured Products.  
The implied warranties which the law imposes on the sale of this Product  
are expressly LIMITED, in duration, to the time period specified above. STAN-  
DARD HORIZON shall not be liable under any circumstances for conse-  
quential damages resulting from the use and operation of this Product, or  
from the breach of this LIMITED WARRANTY, any implied warranties, or  
any contract with STANDARD HORIZON. IN CONNECTION WITH THE  
SALE OF ITS PRODUCTS, STANDARD HORIZON MAKES NO WARRAN-  
Page 66  
GX1256S  
 
TIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED AS TO THE MERCHANTABILITY OR FIT-  
NESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR OTHERWISE, EXCEPT AS  
EXPRESSLY SET FORTH HEREIN.  
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or conse-  
quential damages, or limitation on how long an implied warranty lasts, so  
the above limitations or exclusions may not apply. This warranty gives spe-  
cific legal rights, and there may be other rights which may vary from state to  
state.  
ONLY PRODUCTS SOLD ON OR AFTER JANUARY 1, 1991 ARE COV-  
ERED UNDER THE TERMS OF THIS LIMITED WARRANTY.  
GX1256S  
 
Page 67  
ON-LINE WARRANTY REGISTRATION  
THANK YOU for buying STANDARD HORIZON (a division of Vertex  
Standard) products! We are confident your new radio will serve your  
needs for many years!  
rine VHF. It should be noted that visiting the Web site from time to  
time may be beneficial to you, as new products are released they will  
appear on the STANDARD HORIZON Web site. Also a statement  
regarding product support should be added to the manual.  
Product Support Inquiries  
If you have any questions or comments regarding the use of the  
QUEST+, you can visit the STANDARD HORIZON Web site to send  
an E-Mail or contact the Product Support team at (714) 827-7600 ext  
6300 M-F 7:00-5:00PST.  
In addition to the warranty, STANDARD HORIZON includes a life-  
time “flat rate” program to provide service after the warranty period  
has expired. If you wish to obtain the flat rate price for out-of-war-  
ranty repair, you must include the information on the Owner’s Record  
with the unit when you return it to your Dealer or to STANDARD  
HORIZON.  
Lifetime Flat Rate Service Program: For the original Owner only, for  
the lifetime of the unit, STANDARD HORIZON will repair the unit to  
original specifications.  
Note: The flat rate amount is payable by the Owner only if STAN-  
DARD HORIZON or the STANDARD HORIZON Dealer determines  
that a repair is needed. After the repair, a 90-day warranty will be in  
effect from the date of return of the unit to the Owner.  
This service program is not available for equipment which has failed  
as a result of neglect, accident, breakage, misuse, improper installa-  
tion or modification, or water damage (depending on the product).  
Page 68  
GX1256S  
 
13 SPECIFICATIONS  
Performance specifications are nominal, unless otherwise indicated, and  
are subject to change without notice.  
13.1 GENERAL  
Channels ............................................ All USA, International and Canadian  
Input Voltage........................................................................ 13.8 VDC 20%  
Current Drain  
Standby ............................................................................................ 0.5 A  
Receive ............................................................................................ 1.5 A  
Transmit ...................................................................5.0 A (Hi); 1.5 A (Lo)  
Dimensions ................................................ 2-1/2” H x 6-5/16” W x 6-5/16” D  
(64 H x 160 W x 160 D mm)  
Flush-Mount Dimensions .................................. 2” H x 5-5/16” W x 5-1/8” D  
(50 H x 136 W x 130 D mm)  
Weight ...................................................................................... 2.2 lbs (1 kg)  
13.2 TRANSMITTER  
Frequency Range .................................................. 156.025 to 157.425 MHz  
RF Output ...................................................................... 25 W (Hi); 1 W (Lo)  
Conducted Spurious Emissions ................................. 80 dB (Hi); 60 dB (Lo)  
Audio Response .............................................. within +1/-3 of a 6 dB/octave  
pre-emphasis characteristic at 300 to 3000 Hz  
Audio Distortion ....................................................................................... 5 %  
Modulation ..................................................... 16K0G3E, for DSC 16K0G2B  
Frequency Stability (-20°C to +50°C) ........................................... 0.0005%  
FM Hum and Noise .............................................................................. 50 dB  
13.3 RECEIVER  
Frequency Range .................................................. 156.050 to 163.275 MHz  
Sensitivity  
20 dB Quieting ............................................................................. 0.35 µV  
12 dB SINAD ............................................................................... 0.25 µV  
Squelch Sensitivity (Threshold) .................................................. 0.13 µV  
Modulation Acceptance Bandwidth ................................................. 7.5 kHz  
Selectivity  
Spurious and Image Rejection ...................................................... -70 dB  
Intermodulation and Rejection at 12 dB SINAD ........................... -70 dB  
Audio Output............................................................................................ 4 W  
Audio Response ............................................ within + 2/–8 of a 6 dB/octave  
de-emphasis characteristic at 300 to 3000 Hz  
Frequency Stability (-20°C to +50°C) .......................................... 0.0005 %  
Channel Spacing ................................................................................ 25 kHz  
DSC Format.............................................................................. RTCMSC101  
GX1256S  
 
Page 69  
MEMO  
Page 70  
GX1256S  
 
MEMO  
GX1256S  
Page 71  
 
Copyright 2004  
VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD.  
All rights reserved.  
Marine Division of VERTEX STANDARD  
US Headquarters  
10900 Walker Street, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A.  
No portion of this manual  
may be reproduced  
without the permission of  
VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD.  
0401b-0Y  
E M 0 0 5 N 1 0 0  
 

Sharp Calculator el 2607p User Manual
Sharp Printer FODC550 User Manual
Singer Sewing Machine 132B6 User Manual
Sonic Alert Clock Radio SBT600ss User Manual
Sony Projection Television KF 42SX200K User Manual
Sony Speaker CDP C40 User Manual
Sony Speaker System MHC DX20 User Manual
SOYO Computer Hardware SY 7IWM User Manual
Sunbeam Mixer 2356 User Manual
Superior Digital Photo Frame IDP 100 User Manual