Table of Contents
Advertisement
Quick Links
Advertisement
Table of Contents
Related Manuals for Cobra TrailBlazer 500
Summary of Contents for Cobra TrailBlazer 500
-
Page 2: Safety Information
Before operating the radio, please read all safety and operating instructions. Save all instructions in a safe place for future reference. Warning: Important Safety Information 1. Only accessories included in this package or specified by the manufacturer should be used with the radio. The USB-C charging input is compatible with most high quality USB Type C chargers that fully conform to the USB standards. 2. Do not use cleaners or solvents to clean the exterior of the radio. Use only a damp or dry cloth. 3. Do not attempt to service the receiver yourself. Removing the cover will void the warranty. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Cobra may void the user’s authority granted by the FCC to operate this device and should not be made. 4. Do not plug the wall adaptor into the power outlet if the outlet is wet. 5. Do not use any portable radio that has a damaged antenna. If a damaged antenna comes into contact with your skin, a minor burn can result. WARNING: Important Safety Instructions for Battery and Chargers Read All Instructions: • Do not incinerate the battery even if it is severely damaged or is completely worn out. -
Page 3: Table Of Contents
Contents SAFETY INFORMATION .......................A1 INTRODUCTION ........................3 PRODUCT FEATURES ......................4 INSTALLATION ........................6 -Installing and Charging Batteries ..................6 -Quick Start ..........................6 -Restore the radio to default settings ..................6 OPERATION ........................... 7 -Turning the Radio On and Off ....................7 -Battery Low ........................... -
Page 4: Introduction
Introduction Prepare for your next adventure into the wild unknown with TrailBlazer radios—perfect for communication during a day on the dunes, an afternoon rock-crawling, or a week overlanding. With higher power and superior range, GMRS technology empowers those who enjoy the outdoors. In this user’s guide, you should find all the information you need to operate your TrailBlazer 250 radio. If you require further assistance after reading this guide, Cobra offers the following customer assistance services: For Assistance In The U.S.A. For any questions about operating this new Cobra product, PLEASE CONTACT COBRA FIRST. The contact information for Cobra will vary depending on the country in which you purchased and uses the product. For the latest contact information, please go to www.cobra.com/support or call 1-800-543-1608. If your product should require factory service, please go to www.cobra.com/support and follow the instructions. Operational Cautions Exposure to high volume sound levels may cause temporary or permanent damage to your hearing. Although there is no single volume setting that is appropriate for everyone, you should always use your radio with the volume set at low level and avoid prolonged exposure to high volume sound levels. 1. Set the volume control in a low position and use as low a volume as possible. 2. Avoid turning up the volume to block out noisy surroundings. Whenever possible, use your radio in a quiet environment with low background noise. 3. Limit the amount of time you use headsets or earpiece at high volume levels. 4. When using the radio without a headset or earpiece, do not place the radio’s speaker directly against your ear. 5. Observe all signs and instructions that require an electrical device or RF radio product to be switched off in designated areas, such as gas/refueling stations, hospitals, blasting areas, potentially explosive atmospheres, or aircraft. 6. If you experience a skin irritation after using this product, discontinue use and seek medical attention. 7. If the product or charger: overheats; has a damaged cord or plug; has been dropped or damaged;... -
Page 5: Product Features
Introduction PRODUCT FEATURES 1. PTT Button 7. USB-C Port 2. Emergency Button 8. Up/Down Button 3. Bank & Channel Knob 9. Charging Dock Pins 4. Power & Volume Knob 10. Menu 5. Speaker 11. Microphone 6. Headset Jack... - Page 6 Introduction TrailBlazer 500 Keypad A. Menu Button B. Call Button Letter Label Button Press Press and Hold MENU Menu Privacy Code Call Monitor DOWN N/A Lock NOTE: The Up and Down buttons are used to navigate the menu and adjust settings.
-
Page 7: Installation
Installing and Charging Batteries 1. A Lithium Ion battery is pre-installed in the radio. If replacing the battery check to see that the battery is connected and inserted properly. 2. To charge the battery in the radio insert the USB cable into the charge jack located at the right side of the radio. 3. Plug the cable into a USB-compatible power port. 4. A red LED will indicate that the battery is charging. When fully charged the LED will turn green. NOTES: • Cobra recommends your radio is turned off while being charged. • Please charge new batteries for 14 hours for first time of use. Quick Start 1. Turn ON/OFF/Volume Knob clockwise to turn the radio on and counter clockwise to turn the radio off. 2. Select a desired channel. NOTE: Both radios must be tuned to the same channel/privacy code to communicate. 3. Push and hold the Push-To-Talk (PTT) button while speaking into the microphone. 4. When finished talking, release the PTT and listen for a response. -
Page 8: Operation
Operation Turning the Radio On and Off - To power ON turn Power Knob clockwise - To power OFF turn Power Knob counter-clockwise Battery Low When battery power is low, a red warning LED will blink and a voice prompt will announce “please charge” to warn that the battery is low. Recharge the battery. Communicating with Another Radio 1. Press and hold the Push-To-Talk (PTT) button on the side of the radio 2. With the microphone about two inches (5 cm) from your mouth, speak in a normal voice. 3. Release the PTT button when you are finished talking and listen for a response. You cannot receive incoming calls while pressing the PTT button. Both radios need to be on the same frequency and privacy code to communicate. - Turn the power/volume knob clockwise to increase the volume. - Turn the power/volume knob counter clockwise to decrease the volume. Tip: It is recommended to wait a short time after pressing the PTT before speaking to avoid cutting off the beginning of the message. Changing Channels To change channel, turn the channel knob clockwise or counterclockwise until you reach your desired channel. Monitor Your TrailBlazer 500 has an automatic squelch function to automatically block weak transmissions and static, noise, or other unwanted noise. You can turn on the Monitor function to turn off the automatic squelch, allowing all signals to be received. This is also an effective way to hear audio from the radio speaker in order to adjust the volume. -
Page 9: Call Button
Operation Call Button Press and release the Call button to alert others that you are calling. The other person will hear a two second call tone. This tone is only used to alert others of incoming voice communications. Lock Function The lock function locks the radio controls to prevent accidental operation. Press and hold the lock button to lock the keypad controls. The channel knob and volume control remain functional. Channel Banks The TrailBlazer 500 comes equipped with multiple channel banks to provide compatibility with Cobra Family Radio Series (FRS) radios. If repeaters are turned on an additional 8 repeater channels 15RP- 22RP are available. By default the channel banks are: To change the bank, press Bank and Channel Knob. 1. Bank 1: 22 GMRS/FRS channels +8 GMRS repeater channels. 2. Bank 2: 60 GMRS/FRS channels compatible with Cobra RX series FRS radios and Midland 50 channel FRS and GMRS radios. a. Channels 1-22 (and +8 repeater channels if turned on) are the standard GMRS channels compatible with all FRS and GMRS radios b. Channels 23-60 have preset privacy codes 3. Bank 3: 22 GMRS/FRS channels with preset privacy codes. Compatible with Cobra PX series FRS radios. 4. Bank 4: Weather. 10 NOAA weather channels. In addition to setting privacy codes, channel banks can be further customized with the Cobra Programming Software (CPS). The Cobra Programming Software allows you to enable or disable channels to customize the channel banks. Instead of a 22 or larger channel bank a radio can be programmed on only have 1 or 2 channels. The CPS also allows for changing the radio settings and adjusting all of the channels in a easy and convenient user interface. -
Page 10: Weather (Wx)
Operation Weather (WX) The TrailBlazer 500 has 10 NOAA weather channels and a weather alert feature. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides continuous around-the-clock broadcasts of the latest weather conditions. Recorded weather messages run every 4-6 minutes and are revised every 2-3 hours as needed. NOAA Emergency Weather Alert The TrailBlazer 500 can be programmed to alert to a NOAA Emergency Weather Alert. This setting can be turned on within the Cobra Computer Programming Software (CPS). A programming cable (sold separately) is required. In the event of a major storm or other weather condition, NOAA broadcasts a 1050 Hz tone that receivers such as the TrailBlazer 500 radio can detect and warn you of a weather alert condition. When the Weather Alert mode on your radio is set to On, this signal will produce a loud tone from the speaker in the radio and will automatically switch to the alerting weather channel so the alert broadcast can be heard. NOTE: Typically only one or two weather channels will be operating in a given location. Select the channel with the strongest signal for your location. This weather channel will also be used to for detecting a emergency weather alert. To test this system, NOAA broadcasts the 1050 Hz signal every Wednesday sometime between 10 am and noon in each local time zone. Any receiver that can detect the weather alert tone may use this service to verify that this system is functioning properly. Emergency Alert The Emergency Alert feature can be used to signal members in your group of your need for urgent help. The TrailBlazer series radios will operate in an automatic hands-free emergency mode. All Cobra RX380, RX680, PX650, & CXY900 series FRS radios and TrailBlazer 500, 450, & 500 series GMRS radios are compatible with the Emergency Alert Feature. Radios other than these Cobra series radios can receive the emergency alert signal, but may not respond to the emergency alert in the same way as a compatible Cobra series radio. To signal an Emergency Alert press and hold the Emergency Alert button for 3 seconds - The backlight will flash and an alert tone will sound. - After the alert tone ends you may speak into the microphone to make a transmission. • You do not need to continue to hold the emergency alert button and do not need to press and hold the PTT button for your message to be transmitted. -
Page 11: Menu
Operation Emergency Alert continued A compatible Cobra radio receiving an emergency alert will respond by: - Sounding an 8 second alert tone at maximum volume. - After 8 seconds the radio buttons and controls will be locked so the incoming emergency message can be received - After a total of 30 seconds your radio will sound a beep tone and your radio will return to its normal two-way radio function. WARNING: The Emergency Alert feature should only be used in the event of an actual emergency. Cobra is not responsible if there is no response to the emergency alert from the receiving group. Menu By scrolling through the Menu, you will be able to select or turn on preferred features of your TrailBlazer 500. When scrolling through the Menu, the radio features settings can be modified in the same predetermined order: Set Vox On/Off Set Vox Sensitivity 1-5 Set Roger Beep On/Off Set Repeater On/Off Set Weather Alert On/Off... -
Page 12: Menu/Power Button
Operation Menu/Power Button Each press of the Menu button advances you to the next option setting. Press the UP or DOWN buttons to change the setting. Press MENU to save and advance to the next setting. You may also press the PTT button to save the new setting and return to standby. Menu Sensitivity On/Off Roger Weather Repeater On/Off Beep Alert On/Off On/Off On/Off When changing a setting in the menu, select the desired setting and choose one of the following: a. Press the Menu button to save the new setting and proceed to other menu settings. b. Press the Push-to-Talk button to save the new setting and return to Standby mode. c. Do not press any buttons for 6 seconds to save the new setting and return to Standby mode. -
Page 13: Privacy Codes (Ctcss & Dcs)
CTCSS Privacy Code & Set DCS Privacy Code Press the Up or Down button to select a privacy code. You can hold the Up or Down button for fast advance. The privacy code 0 turns the privacy code off and allows all signals to be heard on a channel. When setting the privacy codes for a repeater channel separate selections can be made for the Transmit Privacy Code and the Receive Privacy Code. These can even have one privacy code using CTCSS and the other using DSC. Voice Activated Transmit (VOX) VOX enables hands-free operation of your radio by automatically transmitting when you speak. This feature is particularly effective when used with a headset or lapel speaker/microphone. VOX Sensitivity Settings Adjust VOX sensitivity (levels 1-5) to match your voice volume and minimize unwanted transmissions from background noise. Level 1 requires the loudest voice input and is the most resistant to background noise. Level 5 is the highest sensitivity and activates with minimal voice input. For optimal performance, it is recommended to use a compatible speaker/microphone accessory with the VOX feature. Repeaters On/Off Turning repeaters On will add the 8 repeater channels 15RP-22RP to the channel list on Banks 1, 2, & 3. Roger Beep On/Off A receiving radio will hear an audible tone when you release the Talk button. This alerts the other party that you are finished talking and it is OK for them to speak. The roger beep will also sound from your radio as an indication that roger beep is on. Additional Settings Additional settings and user controls are available by using the Cobra Customer Radio Programming Software (CPS). Please visit cobra.com to download the software allowing the ability to fully customize your radio and save Profiles to be used on your radios. A radio programming cable is required (sold separately). -
Page 14: Channel Frequencies
Operation Channel Frequencies - Bank 1 Index Radio Channel Frequency Bandwidth 1 - 462.5625 Wideband / Narrowband 2 - 462.5875 Wideband / Narrowband 3 - 462.6125 Wideband / Narrowband 4 - 462.6375 Wideband / Narrowband 5 - 462.6625 Wideband / Narrowband 6 - 462.6875 Wideband / Narrowband 7 - 462.7125 Wideband / Narrowband 8 - 467.5625 Narrowband 9 - 467.5875 Narrowband 10 - 467.6125 Narrowband 11 - 467.6375 Narrowband 12 - 467.6625 Narrowband 13 - 467.6875 Narrowband 14 - 467.7125 Narrowband 15 - 462.55 Wideband / Narrowband 16 - 462.575 Wideband / Narrowband... -
Page 15: Bank 2
Operation Channel Frequencies - Bank 2 Radio Code Code Radio Code Code Index Frequency Index Frequency Channel Type Value Channel Type Value 1 - 462.5625 27 (Channel - 15) 15 - 462.55 CTCSS 26 - 162.2 2 - 462.5875 28 (Channel - 17) 17 - 462.6 CTCSS 23 - 146.2 3 - 462.6125 29 (Channel - 19) 19 - 462.65 CTCSS 20 - 131.8 4 - 462.6375 30 (Channel - 21) 21 - 462.7 CTCSS 17 - 118.8 5 - 462.6625 31 (Channel - 2) -
Page 16: Bank 3
Operation Channel Frequencies - Bank 3 Radio Code Code Index Frequency Channel Type Value 1 - 462.5625 CTCSS 1 - 67 2 - 462.5875 CTCSS 11 - 97.4 3 - 462.6125 CTCSS 22 - 141.3 4 - 462.6375 CTCSS 33 - 210.7 5 - 462.6625 1 - 23 6 - 462.6875 11 - 71 7 - 462.7125 22 - 143 8 - 467.5625 33 - 243 9 - 467.5875 44 - 331 10 - 467.6125 55 - 431 11 - 467.6375 66 - 565 12 - 467.6625 77 - 712 13 - 467.6875... -
Page 17: Bank 4 (Weather Channels)
Operation Channel Frequencies - Bank 4 (Weather Channels) WX Channel Frequency WX Channel Frequency Channel 1 162.550 MHz Channel 6 162.500 MHz Channel 2 162.400 MHz Channel 7 162.525 MHz Channel 3 162.475 MHz Channel 8 161.650 MHz Channel 4 162.425 MHz Channel 9 161.775 MHz Channel 5 162.450 MHz Channel 10 163.275 MHz CTCSS Codes Code Octal Code Code Octal Code 131.8 71.9... -
Page 18: Dcs Codes
Operation DCS Codes Code Octal Code Octal Code Octal Code Octal Code Octal NOTE: CTCSS & DCS code numbers may vary across radio brands. These 38 Cobra CTCSS codes and 83 DCS codes are shared across all Cobra FRS and GRMS radios and also used by most radios from Midland, Motorola, Uniden, Backcountry Access, and Rocky Talkie. -
Page 19: Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions Power Cycling As a general troubleshooting step power cycle the radio (turn radio off and back on) to see if the issue persists. Radio does not turn on Make sure that the battery(ies) is(are) correctly installed in the radio Is the battery charged? Replace the battery with a fully charged battery or charge the battery Radio does not charge For radios with a desktop charger ensure that the radio is fully seated in the charger Check the charger and cable to ensure that they are fully connected. If possible try charging another device with the same charger and cable. No Audio Check to make sure both the channel and the privacy code match on the transmitting radio and receiving radio(s). If one radio can receive a transmission but the other can not the most likely cause is a mismatch of a privacy code. Check the volume level of the receiving radio(s). If an accessory headset or speaker/mic is used ensure that it is fully connected into the radio jack. Check to ensure that the antenna is properly installed on radio. Inspect the antenna for any signs of damage. If any damage is found the antenna will need to be replaced... -
Page 20: Software, Fcc And Safety Statement
Software, FCC and Safety Statement Cobra Radio Programming Software Please visit Cobra.com to download the software allowing the ability to fully customize your radio and save Profiles to be used on your radios. A radio programming cable is required (sold separately). Transmit and Receive Procedure Your two-way radio contains a low power transmitter. When the talk button is pushed it sends out radio frequency signals (RF). In 1996 the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted RF exposure guidelines with safety levels for handheld wireless devices. To control your exposure and ensure compliance with the occupational/controlled environment exposure limits, always adhere to the following procedures: • Transmit no more than 50% of the time. • To transmit (talk), press the Push to Talk (PTT) button. • To receive calls, release the PTT button. Transmitting 50% of the time, or less, is important because the radio generates measurable RF energy exposure only when transmitting (in terms of measuring standards compliance). FCC Statement IMPORTANT NOTICE: WARNING: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. This device complies with parts 15 and 90 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and 2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. NOTE: 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... -
Page 21: Radiation Exposure Statement
Software, FCC and Safety Statement Important FCC RF Exposure Requirements: For body-worn operation, this radio has been tested and meets the FCC RF exposure guidelines when used with Cobra accessories supplied or designated for this product. Use of other accessories may not ensure compliance with FCC RF exposure guidelines. Use only the supplied antenna. Unauthorized antennas, modifications or attachments could damage the transmitter and may violate FCC regulations. Normal Position: Hold the transmitter approximately two (2) inches from your face and speak in a normal voice, with the antenna pointed up and away. DO NOT hold the antenna when the radio is “in use”. Holding the antenna affects the effective range. Do not hold the antenna when the radio is in use. Holding the antenna affects the effective range. FCC Part 15.21 Warning Statement NOTE: THE GRANTEE IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS NOT EXPRESSLY APPROVED BY THE PARTY RESPONSIBLE FOR COMPLIANCE. SUCH MODIFICATIONS COULD VOID THE USER’S AUTHORITY TO OPERATE THE EQUIPMENT. Radiation Exposure Statement: Under ISED regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using the antenna that is affixed to the radio transmitter. Use only the supplied antenna. Unauthorized antennas, modifications, or attachments could damage the transmitter and may void the user’s authority to operate the radio. Any changes of modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s ability to operate the equipment. SAR tests are conducted using standard operating positions accepted by the FCC/ISED with the device transmitting at its highest certified power level in all tested frequency bands. Although the SAR is determined at the highest certified power level, the actual SAR level of the device while operating can be well below the maximum value. This device has been tested and certified to not exceed the exposure limit established by the FCC/ISED. Tests for each device are performed in positions and locations (e.g. at the ear and worn on the body) as required by the FCC/ISED. For body worn operation, this device has been tested and meets the FCC/ISED RF exposure guidelines when used with an accessory designated for this product or when used with an accessory that contains no metal and that positions the handset a minimum of 10mm from the body. Non-compliance with the above... -
Page 22: Limited 1-Year Warranty And Trademark Information
WARRANTY. COBRA SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ANY REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO THOSE CONCERNING THE MERCHANTABILITY AND SUITABILITY OF THE PRODUCT FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. COBRA SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE, MISUSE OR MOUNTING OF THE PRODUCT.
Need help?
Do you have a question about the TrailBlazer 500 and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers