Standard Horizon QUEST+ GX1256S Owner's Manual

Standard Horizon QUEST+ GX1256S Owner's Manual

25 watt vhf/fm marine transceiver
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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 position
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 display
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
GX1256S
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Summary of Contents for Standard Horizon QUEST+ GX1256S

  • Page 1 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 position DSC position request/send function and NMEA data input/out-...
  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    TABLE OF CONTENTS SAFETY/WARNING INFORMATION ... 4 FCC RADIO LICENSE INFORMATION ... 5 STATION LICENSE ... 5 RADIO CALL SIGN ... 5 CANADIAN SHIP STATION LICENSING ... 5 FCC / INDUSTRY CANADA INFORMATION ... 5 FCC NOTICE ... 6 GETTING STARTED ... 7 ABOUT VHF RADIO ...
  • Page 3 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 ...
  • Page 4: Safety/Warning Information

    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...
  • Page 5: Fcc Radio License Information

    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-...
  • Page 6: Fcc 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. 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.
  • Page 7: Getting Started

    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”...
  • Page 8: Coaxial Cable

    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.
  • Page 9: General Information

    1 GENERAL INFORMATION The STANDARD HORIZON is a VHF/FM transceiver designed for use in the frequency range of 156.025 to 163.275 MHz. The quires 13.8V for operation and has a switchable RF output power of 1 watt or 25 watts.
  • Page 10: Packing List

    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 •...
  • Page 11: Installation

    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 •...
  • Page 12: Accessory Cable

    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.
  • Page 13: Connection Of Gps With Nmea Output

    4.4 CONNECTION OF GPS WITH NMEA OUTPUT Green STANDARD HORIZON Blue Brown Furuno GP30, 36 White Blue Furuno GP1650, 1850 White Black Garmin Fixed Mounts Blue Black (GND) Garmin Portables Brown Black (GND) JRC GPS500 Yellow Green JRC 100 SERIES...
  • Page 14: Optional Mmb-84 Flush Mount Installation

    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).
  • Page 15: Optional Cmp25 Ram+ Mic Installation

    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.
  • Page 16: Controls And Indicators

    5 CONTROLS AND INDICATORS 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.
  • Page 17 Figure 4. Controls and Connectors GX1256S Page 17...
  • Page 18 [ WX ] Key Immediately recalls the previously selected NOAA weather channel from any channel location. Secondary use 1. Holding down the [ 16/9 ] key while pressing the [ WX ] key changes the mode from USA to International or Canadian. 2.
  • Page 19: Radio Setup Menu

    [ 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.
  • Page 20 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.
  • Page 21: Basic Operation

    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”.
  • Page 22: Simplex/Duplex Channel Use

    6.4 SIMPLEX/DUPLEX CHANNEL USE Refer to the VHF MARINE CHANNEL CHART (page 60) for instructions on use of simplex and duplex channels. 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.
  • Page 23: Noaa Weather Alert

    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.
  • Page 24: Emergency (Channel 16 Use)

    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.
  • Page 25: Making Telephone Calls

    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”...
  • Page 26: Prohibited Communications

    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.
  • Page 27: Priority Scanning (P-Scan)

    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.
  • Page 28: Time Indication

    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. The TIME OFFSET should be set to local time in the DSC/RADIO setup mode when the radio is connected the GPS navigation receiver.
  • Page 29: Digital Selective Calling

    7 DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING 7.1 GENERAL 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.
  • Page 30: Dsc Scan

    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.
  • Page 31: Uscg Dsc Watch

    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...
  • Page 32: Additional Digital Selective Calling Information

    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.
  • Page 33: Receiving A Distress Call

    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”...
  • Page 34: Receiving A Distress Relay Call

    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.
  • Page 35: Receiving An All Ships Call

    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.
  • Page 36: Setting Up Individual Reply

    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.
  • Page 37: Setting Up Individual Call Ringer

    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.
  • Page 38: Receiving An Individual Call

    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.
  • Page 39: Setting Up The Call Waiting Function

    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.
  • Page 40: Advanced Dsc Call

    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...
  • Page 41 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.
  • Page 42: 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.
  • Page 43 7.8.2.1 Setting up Position Reply The QUEST+ can be set up to automatically or manually send your position to another vessel. This selection is important if you are concerned about someone polling the position of your vessel that you may not want to. In the manual mode you will see the MMSI or persons name shown on the display allowing you to choose to send your position to the requesting vessel.
  • Page 44 ceiver remains on channel 70 until position data is re- ceived from the polled vessel. 7. When the QUEST+ receives the position from the polled vessel it is shown on the radio display and also trans- ferred to the GPS Chart plotter. 8.
  • Page 45: Position Send

    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.
  • Page 46: Receiving A Geographical Area Call

    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.
  • Page 47: Radio Setup Mode

    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).
  • Page 48: Key Beep (On Or Off)

    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.
  • Page 49: Channel Name Change

    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.
  • Page 50: Time Offset

    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”...
  • Page 51: Ram+ Mic Operation

    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.
  • Page 52 VOLUME KEY ( VOL ) Activates the volume adjusting mode. Press this key to activate the volume adjusting mode. Press the microphone’s [ ] or [ ] to adjust the volume. POWER SWITCH ( PWR ) Press and hold down this key to turn to the transceiver and RAM+ Mic on and off.
  • Page 53 [ CALL/SET ] Key The [ CALL/SET ] key functions as the enter key. Secondary use Press the [ CALL/SET ] key to access the DSC 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.
  • Page 54: Intercom Operation

    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.
  • Page 55: Dsc/Radio Setup Mode

    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.
  • Page 56: Maintenance

    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.
  • Page 57: Factory Service

    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.
  • Page 58: Troubleshooting Chart

    10.3 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART SYMPTON Transceiver fails to power up. Transceiver blows fuse when connected to power supply. Popping or whining n o i s e f r o m t h e speaker while engine runs. Sound is not emitted f r o m t h e e x t e r n a l speaker.
  • Page 59: Channel Assignments

    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.
  • Page 60 5. Channels normally used by recreational boaters are those that include the term “non-commercial” in the Channel Use column of the chart. Some of these are shared with other users and some are used only in certain geographic regions. 6. Marine vessels equipped with VHF radios are required to monitor Channel 16.
  • Page 61 CH U C I S/D 157.150 161.750 Public Correspondence ( Marine Operator ) 23A X 157.150 157.200 161.800 Public Correspondence ( Marine Operator ) X X X 157.250 161.850 Public Correspondence ( Marine Operator ) X X X 157.300 161.900 Public Correspondence ( Marine Operator ) X X X 157.350 161.950 Public Correspondence ( Marine Operator ) X X X...
  • Page 62 CH U C I S/D 156.975 161.575 Port operation and Ship movement 79A X X 156.975 157.025 161.625 Port operation, ship movement 80A X X 157.025 157.075 161.675 Port operation, ship movement 81A X X 157.075 157.125 161.725 Public Correspondence ( Marine Operator ) , 82A X X 157.125 157.175 161.775 Canadian Coast Guard Only...
  • Page 63 Carrier frequency Channel designator Ship Coast transmit transmit Port Operations 156.050 156.050 156.175 156.175 156.250 156.250 156.275 156.275 156.325 156.325 156.600 156.600 156.675 156.675 156.700 156.700 156.725 156.725 156.875 157.000 Navigational (Bridge-to-Bridge) 156.650 156.650 156.375 156.375 Commercial 156.050 156.050 156.175 156.175 156.350 156.350 156.375 156.400...
  • Page 64 4: Use of 156.875 MHz is limited to communications with pilots regarding the movement and docking of ships. Normal output power must not exceed 1 watt. 5: 156.375 MHz and 156.650 MHz are available primarily for intership navigational communications. These frequencies are available between coast and ship on a secondary basis when used on or in the vicinity of locks or drawbridges.
  • Page 65: Warranty

    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...
  • Page 66 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.
  • Page 67 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.
  • Page 68 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.
  • Page 69: Specifications

    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 ...
  • Page 70 MEMO Page 70 GX1256S...
  • Page 71 MEMO GX1256S Page 71...
  • Page 72 Marine Division of VERTEX STANDARD US Headquarters 10900 Walker Street, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A. www. standardhorizon.com Page 72 Copyright 2004 VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD. All rights reserved. No portion of this manual may be reproduced without the permission of VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD. 0401b-0Y GX1256S...

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