VHF 300 Series Owner’s ManualBasic OperationBasic OperationTurning the Radio On and OffIMPORTANT: To use the DSC capabilities of your radio, you must first enter an MMSInumber. See page 14 for more information.To turn on the radio, press and hold the 16/9 key (North American models) or 16+ key(International models). If you have not entered a Mobile Maritime Safety Identity (MMSI)number, you must press the CLEAR key to access the Home screen. To turn off the radio,press and hold the 16/9 key or the 16+ key.TIP: For information on enabling auto power-on, see page 31.Adjusting the VolumeTIP: To set the appropriate volume level, first turn the squelch level to off, and then adjustthe volume. See below for more information on adjusting the squelch level.1. Press the VOL/SQL key until the screen displays “CURRENT VOLUME.”2. Turn the Channel knob on the handset to adjust the level.Adjusting the Squelch1. Press the VOL/SQL key until the screen displays “CURRENT SQUELCH.”2. When receiving, rotate the Volume knob counterclockwise until you hear audio.3. Rotate the Volume knob clockwise until there is no background noise.Selecting ChannelsTurn the Channel knob clockwise or counterclockwise to change channels. See page 36 forlists of International, Canadian, and USA channels.Transmitting with the Radio1. Select the appropriate channel.2. Check to ensure that the channel is clear before transmitting. The FederalCommunications Commission (FCC) and international regulations require that you notobstruct the communications of others.3. Press the PTT key on the handset to transmit on the current channel. The TX icon isdisplayed at the top of the screen.4. Speak your message and release the PTT key.NOTE: Five minutes is the maximum amount of time for transmission. After you havepressed PTT key for five minutes, PTT is disabled until you release the PTT key.