Cobra Electronics Portable Radio Cobra 29 NW ST User Manual

How to Use Your  
Cobra 29 NW ST  
Contents  
Features..................................................................................................1  
Controls & Indicators.......................................................................A1  
Installation  
Location .............................................................................................2  
Mounting and Connection .........................................................2  
Antennas  
Features of This Product  
CB Antenna.......................................................................................6  
Marine Installation .........................................................................6  
Ignition Noise Interference ..........................................................7  
Operating Your 29 NW ST  
40 CB Radio Channels  
SoundTrackerSystem  
Turning On Your CB........................................................................8  
Setting Channel Selector.............................................................9  
Calibrate For SWR (Standing Wave Ratio)..............................10  
To Receive..........................................................................................12  
Selecting a Channel.......................................................................13  
S-Meter ...............................................................................................13  
Heavy-Duty Dynamic  
Microphone  
Full 4 Watts AM RF Power Output  
SWR Calibration Meter  
SoundTracker System ................................................................14  
Activating SoundTracker ..........................................................15  
Instant Channel 19 and 9  
NB-ANL/ANL/Off (Noise Blanker/Automatic.........................16  
Noise Limiter Switch)  
Front Panel 4-Pin Microphone  
Connector  
Tone Hi/Nor.......................................................................................17  
RF Gain Control................................................................................17  
Dimmer Switch................................................................................18  
Setting Squelch ...............................................................................18  
To Transmit........................................................................................20  
Setting Dynamike...........................................................................20  
Transmit..............................................................................................21  
RF Meter.............................................................................................22  
External Speaker .............................................................................23  
PA (Public Address) ........................................................................24  
Home And Office Set-Up .............................................................26  
Temporary Mobile Set-Up ...........................................................27  
How Your CB Can Serve You..........................................................28  
A Few Rules You Should Know..................................................28  
Channel 9 Emergency Messages..............................................28  
CB 10 Codes......................................................................................30  
Frequency Ranges.............................................................................32  
29 NW ST Specifications.................................................................33  
Warranty Information .....................................................................34  
Optional Accessories.................................................................35-36  
Delta -Tune  
Switchable Automatic Noise  
Limiter & Noise Blanker  
Adjustable Dynamike Boost  
Tactile Controls  
• Illuminated Front Panel  
• Dim Control  
• RF Gain  
• 9 ft. Mic Cord  
CAUTION  
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK  
!
DO NOT OPEN  
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC  
SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)  
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE  
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE  
PERSONNEL  
!
1
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Installation  
Installation  
FCC ID:BBO3K229LTD  
ANT  
COBRA  
PA.SP. EXT.SP.  
+POWER–  
MADE IN CHINA  
CT OF  
CAGO, ILL.60707  
Note  
Connecting to an accessory fuse  
prevents the unit from being left  
on accidentally, and also per-  
mits operating the unit without  
running the engine.  
6
Plug power cable into back of unit marked  
“Power. Be sure to observe polarity markings.  
Note  
In positive ground vehicles the  
red wire goes to the chassis and  
the black wire is connected to  
the ignition switch.  
7
Mount the microphone  
bracket on either side of  
the unit (driver’s left)  
using two screws sup-  
plied. Bracket should be  
placed under the dash  
so microphone is readily  
accessible.  
Note  
Before installing the CB radio,  
visually check the vehicle’s  
battery connection to deter-  
mine which terminal, positive  
or negative, is grounded (pos-  
itive is the larger of the two)  
to the engine block (or chas-  
sis). A negatively grounded  
vehicle has its negative lead  
grounded to the chassis.  
4
5
In a negative grounded vehicle, connect the  
red lead of the DC power cord to an accessory  
12 volt fuse.  
29 NW ST  
SWR  
2
3
CAL  
S/RF  
SWR  
NB/  
ANL  
ANL  
C
R
RF  
Connect the black lead to the negative side of  
the vehicle. This is usually the chassis. Any con-  
venient location with a good electrical contact  
(remove paint) may be used.  
SIG 1  
3
5
7
9
+30dB  
P
CAL  
OFF  
VOL  
SQL  
DYNAMIKE  
RFGA  
OFF  
MIN  
MAX MIN  
8
Attach the 4-pin microphone cable to recepta-  
cle on front of unit and Install unit in bracket  
securely.  
4
5
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Antennas  
Ignition Noise Interference  
Use of a mobile receiver at low signal levels is  
CB Antenna  
CB Antenna  
normally limited by the presence of electrical  
noise. The primary source of noise in automobiles  
is from the alternator and ignition system.  
Typically, when signal level is adequate, the back-  
ground noise does not present a serious problem.  
Also, when extremely low level signals are being  
received, the transceiver may be operated with  
the vehicle’s engine turned off. The unit requires  
very little current and therefore will not signifi-  
cantly discharge the vehicle’s battery.  
Since the maximum allowable power output of  
the transmitter is limited by the IC/FCC, the  
antenna is critical in affecting transmission dis-  
tance. Only a properly matched antenna system  
will allow maximum power output. Cobra loaded  
type antenna models are highly recommended  
for most installations. Consult your Cobra dealer  
for further details.  
Note  
For optimum performance in  
passenger cars the ideal anten-  
na location is on the center of  
the roof. Second choice is on the  
center of the trunk.  
Note  
Because many newer trucks  
feature fiberglass door skins, the  
outside mirror must be ground-  
ed to the chassis via ground  
strap, if the antenna is mounted  
on the mirror bracket.  
Even though the Cobra 29 NW ST has an auto-  
matic noise limiter, in some installations ignition  
interference may be high enough to make good  
communications impossible. Many possibilities  
exist and variations between vehicles require  
different solutions. Consult your COBRA dealer or  
a 2-way radio technician for help in locating the  
source of a severe noise.  
DATE OF  
FCC ID:BBO3K229LTD  
MFG :JUNE 98  
ANT  
COBRA  
PA.SP. EXT.SP.  
+POWER–  
MADE IN CHINA  
SERIAL NO.:806135776  
PRECISION ENGINEERED PRODUCT OF  
COBRA ELECTRONICS CORP. CHICAGO, ILL.60707  
Note  
3-way Combination Antennas  
are also available which allow  
operation of all three bands  
(AM-FM & CB), using a single  
antenna. However, this type of  
antenna usually results in less  
than normal transmit and  
receive range when compared  
to a standard-type “Single  
Band” CB antenna.  
1
A standard antenna connector is provided  
on the transceiver for easy connection.  
Marine Installation  
The transceiver will not operate at maximum effi-  
ciency in a boat without a ground plate, (unless it  
has a steel hull). Before attempting installation ,  
consult your dealer for information regarding an  
adequate grounding system and prevention of  
electrolysis between fittings in the hull and water.  
6
7
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Operation  
Operation  
Turning On  
Setting Channel Selector  
Turning On  
Setting Channel  
Selector  
Make sure the power cord, antenna and micro-  
phone are connected to their proper connectors  
before starting.  
29 NW ST  
TONE  
CH19  
NB/  
ANL  
ANL  
CB  
HI  
RX/TX  
CH9  
NOR  
PA  
NOR  
OFF  
29 NW ST  
RFGAIN  
DIMMER  
SWR CAL  
SWR  
RF  
2
3
CAL  
S/RF  
SWR  
NB/  
ANL  
ANL  
CB  
SIG 1  
3
5
7
9
+30dB  
PA  
CAL  
OFF  
VOL  
SQL  
DYNAMIKE  
RFGAIN  
AX MIN  
MAX MIN  
MAX  
1
Select  
one of forty channels and adjust  
OFF  
MIN  
MAX MIN  
MAX  
volume. The selected channel is indicated by  
the LED readout directly above the channel  
selector knob  
1
The CB/PA button should be in the  
CB position.  
29 NW ST  
TONE  
S/RF  
SWR  
NB/  
ANL  
ANL  
CH  
CH  
CB  
HI  
9
PA  
NOR  
CAL  
OFF  
NO  
DIMMER  
RFGAIN  
VOL  
SQL  
DYNAMIKE  
MIN  
M
2
Rotate the On/Off Volume knob  
a normal listening level.  
clockwise to  
8
9
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Operation  
Operation  
Calibrate for SWR (Standing Wave Ratio)  
Calibrate For  
SWR (Standing  
Wave Ratio)  
SWR calibration is done to properly adjust the  
length of the antenna and to monitor the quality  
of the coaxial cable and all RF connections.  
This calibration is critical in order to achieve opti-  
mum performance.  
PUSH &  
HOLD  
Note  
Calibration must be made in an  
open area (never in a garage).  
Vehicle doors must be closed. No  
one should be standing near the  
antenna. (See your antenna  
directions for more complete  
information).  
29 NW ST  
TONE  
CH19  
CH9  
NB/  
ANL  
ANL  
CB  
HI  
RX/TX  
PA  
NOR  
OFF  
NOR  
E
RFGAIN  
DIMMER  
SWR CAL  
3
Push and hold mic button.  
Note  
AX MIN  
MAX MIN  
MAX  
29 NW ST  
The reading will be slightly high-  
er on Channels 1 and 40 com-  
pared to Channel 20.  
TONE  
NB/  
ANL  
ANL  
CH19  
CH9  
CB  
HI  
RX/TX  
1
Select  
channel 20.  
PA  
NOR  
OFF  
NOR  
E
RFGAIN  
DIMMER  
SWR CAL  
29 NW ST  
SWR  
RF  
2
3
CAL  
S/RF  
SWR  
NB/  
CB  
ANL  
ANL  
MAX MIN  
MAX  
MIN  
MAX  
SIG 1  
3
5
7
9
+30dB  
PA  
CAL  
OFF  
VOL  
SQL  
DYNAMIKE  
RFGAIN  
4
While holding mic  
button adjust the  
SWR CAL knob so the  
meter needle swings  
to the CAL mark on  
SWR  
RF  
2
3
CAL  
OFF  
MIN  
MAX MIN  
MAX  
SIG 1  
3
5
7 9 +30dB  
the meter (located on the right).  
2
Switch to the CAL position.  
continued  
10  
11  
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Operation  
Operation  
Selecting A Channel  
Selecting A  
Channel  
29 NW ST  
SWR  
RF  
2
3
CAL  
S/RF  
SWR  
NB/  
ANL  
ANL  
CB  
SIG 1  
3
5
7
9
+30dB  
PA  
CAL  
OFF  
TONE  
CH19  
B
HI  
Note  
RFGAIN  
VOL  
SQL  
DYNAMIKE  
RX/TX  
CH9  
NOR  
Note  
Switch to 9 (Emergency) or 19  
(Information) for instant access  
to these channels.  
A
NOR  
When switched to SWR posi-  
tion the meter needle should  
ideally be as far to the left as  
possible. Anything over 3 is  
not acceptable. A slight  
antenna height adjustment  
(higher or lower) may be  
required. Repeat relcalibration  
steps.  
IN  
DIMMER  
SWR CAL  
OFF  
MIN  
MAX MIN  
MAX  
MAX MIN  
MAX  
5
6
While still holding down the mic button, set  
the S/RF SWR CAL switch to the SWR position,  
to read the SWR reading.  
1
Switch to NOR to select desired channel.  
Repeat the same steps two through five on  
Channel 1 and 40. This will check SWR for all  
channels.  
S-Meter  
S-Meter  
Swings proportionately to strength of incoming  
signal when receiving.  
To Receive  
To Receive  
29 N  
NB/  
ANL  
ANL  
29 NW ST  
TONE  
S/RF  
SWR  
NB/  
ANL  
ANL  
CH19  
CH9  
SWR  
RF  
2
3
CAL  
S/RF  
SWR  
CB  
HI  
9
PA  
NOR  
CAL  
OFF  
NOR  
SIG 1  
3
5
7 9 +30dB  
VOL  
SQL  
DYNAMIKE  
RFGAIN  
DIMMER  
OFF  
CAL  
VOL  
SQL  
DYNAMIKE  
MIN  
MA  
1
The S/RF-SWR-CAL switch must be in the  
S/RF position to read the meter.  
1
Rotate the  
On/Off Volume knob clockwise  
the green RT/TX LED will be illuminated.  
12  
13  
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Operation  
Operation  
TM  
The SoundTracker System  
Activating SoundTracker™  
Activating  
SoundTracker™  
While previous systems only “blanket out” or limit  
noise in higher sound frequencies, the revolution-  
TM  
ary new SoundTracker System actually reduces  
TONE  
Note  
noise while leaving the signal intact in the recep-  
tion mode. In the transmission mode, it actually  
strengthens the signal, providing you with a  
significant reduction in noise on reception  
and transmission.  
HI  
RX/TX  
SoundTracker™ gives you  
clearer, cleaner reception to  
improve CB communications  
while on the air.  
NOR  
DIMMER  
MIN  
MAX  
Sound clarity is measured by the ratio  
of the signal level to the noise level.  
The higher the signal-to-noise ratio,  
the better the sound.  
1
Push and release the  
is illuminated when SoundTracker™ is  
turned on.  
ST button. Red LED  
TM  
How SoundTracker Works  
On Reception - “Cuts noise coming in”  
With a normal CB, distant signals fall below  
the squelch level and are unintelligible. With a  
TM  
SoundTracker CB, the noise level is cut up to  
90%, which increases the signal-to-noise ratio  
and dramatically improves signal clarity. This also  
allows you to significantly reduce the squelch  
level, which greatly expands your listening range.  
On Transmission - “Strengthens signals going out”  
TM  
A SoundTracker CB strengthens the transmit  
signal by more effectively using the available RF  
power output of the CB. The result is improved  
transmission signal clarity and an expanded  
transmission range.  
14  
15  
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Operation  
Operation  
NB-ANL/ANL/OFF (Noise  
Blanker/Automatic Noise Limiter) Switch  
Tone Hi/Nor  
This switch is used to shape the Audio Response  
to the operators preference.  
NB-ANL/ANL/  
OFF (Noise  
Blanker/  
Tone Hi/Nor  
Automatic  
Noise Limiter)  
Switch  
29 NW ST  
SWR  
RF  
2
3
CAL  
S/RF  
SWR  
NB/  
ANL  
ANL  
CB  
TONE  
CH19  
B
HI  
RX/TX  
SIG 1  
3
5
7
9
+30dB  
CH9  
NOR  
PA  
CAL  
OFF  
A
NOR  
RFGAIN  
VOL  
SQL  
DYNAMIKE  
IN  
DIMMER  
SWR CAL  
OFF  
MIN  
MAX MIN  
MAX  
MAX  
MIN  
MAX  
Note  
The RF noise blanker is very  
effective in reducing repetitive  
noises such as ignition interfer-  
ence.  
1
When switched to ANL the Automatic Noise  
Limiter is activated. This helps reduce noise  
created by the vehicle’s electronics.  
1
When set in HI the treble is increased.  
RF Gain Control  
RF Gain Control  
When switched to NB/ANL position the RF  
Noise Blanker is also activated, providing  
increased noise filtration.  
The RF Gain is used to optimize reception in  
strong or weak signal areas.  
When switched to OFF position all noise  
filtration will be turned off.  
29 NW ST  
TONE  
CH19  
SWR  
2
3
CAL  
S/RF  
SWR  
NB/  
ANL  
ANL  
HI  
CB  
CH9  
NOR  
SIG 1  
3
5
7
9
+30dB  
NOR  
CAL  
OFF  
Note  
DIMMER  
VOL  
SQL  
DYNAMIKE  
RFGAIN  
The RF Gain is used to optimize  
reception in weak signal areas.  
MIN  
MA  
OFF  
MIN  
MAX MIN  
MAX  
1
Rotate the  
RF Gain knob counterclockwise  
to reduce gain in strong signal areas. In weak  
signal areas turn clockwise to increase gain.  
16  
17  
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Operation  
Operation  
Gate open  
Dimmer Switch  
Dimmer Switch  
29 NW ST  
TONE  
HI  
STRONG SIGNALS  
MEDIUM SIGNALS  
WEAK SIGNALS  
NOISE  
NOR  
DIMMER  
29 NW ST  
TONE  
Note  
HI  
R
MIN  
MA  
The Dimmer controls the  
brightness of the front panel,  
signal strength meter and  
channel display.  
DIMMER  
DYNAMIKE  
RFGAIN  
2
Full  
counterclockwise rotation opens the  
“gate” allowing all signals in.  
MIN  
MAX  
29 NW ST  
TONE  
HI  
1
Rotate the  
Dimmer knob clockwise for maxi-  
mum brightness; counter-clockwise for minimum.  
NOR  
DIMMER  
Gate set to Desired  
Setting Squelch  
Squelch is the “control gate” for incoming signals.  
Setting Squelch  
Squelch Setting (DSS)  
MIN  
MA  
STRONG SIGNALS  
MEDIUM SIGNALS  
WEAK SIGNALS  
NOISE  
Gate closed  
29 NW ST  
TONE  
HI  
STRONG SIGNALS  
3
To achieve the Desired Squelch Setting (DSS),  
turn the Squelch control counterclockwise  
until you hear noise. Now turn the control  
clockwise just until the noise stops. This is the  
DSS setting.  
NOR  
DIMMER  
MEDIUM SIGNALS  
WEAK SIGNALS  
NOISE  
MIN  
M
1
Full  
clockwise rotation closes the gate  
allowing only very strong signals to enter.  
18  
19  
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Operation  
Operation  
To Transmit  
Transmit  
To Transmit  
Transmit  
29 NW ST  
TONE  
CH19  
NB/  
ANL  
ANL  
Caution!  
CB  
HI  
PUSH &  
HOLD  
RX/TX  
CH9  
NOR  
Be sure the antenna is properly  
connected to the radio before  
transmitting. Prolonged trans-  
mitting without an antenna, or  
a poorly matched antenna,  
could cause damage to the  
transmitter.  
PA  
NOR  
OFF  
RFGAIN  
DIMMER  
SWR CAL  
AX MIN  
MAX MIN  
MAX  
1
Select desired  
channel.  
1
Setting Dynamike