1 General 1.1 Introduction The RT1200 and RT1400 fixed VHF radio is designed by Simrad and manufactured at our modern factory facility in the UK. The radio is designed to meet or exceed stringent International Regulations including ETS300-162. The RT1200 and RT1400 are robustly construct- ed using a pressure die cast aluminium case for effective heat dissipation, ensuring maximum transmission performance even after many...
1.2 RT1200 and RT1400 The Simrad fixed VHF range consists of two models - the RT1200 and RT1400. Both are available with either a fistmike or telephone handset, and offer the same features including channel scan, channel memory, dual watch etc. The details in this owner’s manual apply to both models. The RT1400 model features an additional watchkeeping receiver, allowing it to use the Digital Selective Calling (DSC) system for routine and distress calling on VHF channel 70.
1.5 Licensing Prior to use check the national licensing requirements for the operator. In the UK license applications and queries should be made to the following authority - Wray Castle Ship Radio Licensing PO Box 5 Ambleside LA22 0BF Tel - 01539 434662 A set may only be operated by, or under the supervision of a holder of a Certificate of Competence and Authority to Operate.
2 Operation 2.1 Location of Controls The RT1200 and 1400 VHFs are very simple to operate, using only five buttons and three rotary knobs to access a variety of functions. The functions available will depend on whether the radio is a scanning or non-scanning version (scanning functions are not permitted in certain countries).
2.2 Operation - Scanning Versions The radio is switched on by turning the volume knob clockwise. The VHF starts up automati- cally on channel 16* at maximum power (25w). 1/25 2.2.1 Function (F) / Backlight ( ) NOTE - Secondary functions are only available on scanning versions of the VHF.
2.2.3 Dual Watch (D/W) / Channel Inhibit ( ) + Revert function Dual Watch enables the radio to scan between the selected channel and the priority channel (nor- 1/25 mally CH16). To activate Dual Watch Mode, select the channel and press D/W - the D/W leg- end will be displayed on the LCD.
2.2.5 Channel 16 (16) Will automatically select Channel 16 on High Power when pressed. Any function active (Dual Watch, Scanning etc) will be cancelled. 2.2.6 Squelch (Sq) This knob is used to adjust the receiver muting threshold (squelch) level. To cut out weaker sig- nals, increase the squelch until the background 1/25 interference noise disappears.
2.4 Memory Mode This function is only available on scanning ver- sions of the VHF. It allows the radio to operate using only the channels programmed into the channel memory (see section 2.2.2). Press F then SCN, keeping SCN held down for 2 seconds.
3 Installation 3.1 VHF Installation The radio should be sited so that engine noise and vibration or other background noise do not make it difficult for the operator to hear. Desktop mounting Overhead mounting Although the RT1200/RT1400 radio is water- Fig 3.1 - Standard mounting options proof when flush mounted, it is recommended that it is not installed where it will be exposed...
3.2 Electrical Installation The RT1200/1400 has four electrical connections - the handset/fistmike socket is on the front panel below the LCD display (Fig 3.4A). The other three are situated on the back of the case - the antenna socket is on the left (Fig 3.4B). DC power is supplied to the set via a two core flying lead (Fig 3.4C), below which is a 3.5mm jack socket for an optional extension speaker (Fig 3.4D).
3.3 Antenna Installation Recommendations The most important factor in the performance of the radio will be the quality and positioning of the antenna. Most recorded problems with VHF radios are related to poor antenna siting, faulty cabling, poor quality cable joints and low voltage supply.
The quality of any connections and integrity of the cable (i.e no breaks in the sheathing) will directly affect the performance of the radio. Poor soldering or corrosion of the terminals can impair performance. It is recommended that screw or crimp terminal type connectors are not used for any through deck fittings - a good quality waterproof solder terminal connector will be less susceptible to poor connection due to corrosion of the contacts.
4 Appendix 4.1 Optional Accessories The following accessories are available from your nearest Simrad Technical Dealer. Please quote the correct part number when ordering. A L L S H I P S U R G E N C Y F R O M : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R E S P : S I M P L E X C H 1 6 R E C ’...
4.2 Transmission Range Because VHF signals travel in a straight line and are not reflected back off the ionosphere as lower frequency signals are, the range of VHF signals is limited to ‘line of sight’, beyond which the other vessel passes behind the curve of the Earth.
4.3 Frequency of Channels and will not be programmed on non-UK radios. Channel 0 will only be made available in the Channel 70 is the designated Digital Selected UK to Coastguard users with written authorisa- Calling (DSC) channel and can only be used by tion.
4.4 Fault Finding Symptom Possible Cause Remedy Unit will not switch on * Faulty connection to power * Check power connection * Fuse has blown * Replace fuse and check power supply current Scan or Memory Scan is * Noise on the channel is * Increase squelch level locking on a channel holding the scan...
4.5 Service & Warranty Your radio should seldom need servicing, although it will benefit from an application of silicone or Teflon grease to the antenna and mic sockets each season. If it is necessary to have the unit repaired, the warranty card supplied with the unit should have been filled in and sent to Simrad when the unit was purchased.