Cobra 19 MINI Recreational CB Radio Owner Manual

Cobra 19 MINI Recreational CB Radio

About Cobra
The future of driver awareness is being advanced by Cobra with the use of cutting-edge technologies. By pursuing exceptional product design and continually creating best-in-class vehicle technology, we seek to lead market sectors. Our 50 years of invention have allowed us to provide the technology you require for a contemporary driving experience, from mending televisions in a small garage to becoming a global leader in consumer electronics.

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Cobra 19 MINI CB Radio Transceiver. Properly used, this Cobra product will give you many years of reliable service.

The Citizens Band Story

The Citizens Band lies between the shortwave broadcast and 10-meter amateur radio bands and was established by law in 1949. The Class D two-way communications service
was opened in 1959. (CB also includes a Class A citizens band and Class C remote control frequencies.)

Customer Assistance

Should you encounter any problems with this product, or not understand its features, menu, or installation, please refer to this owner’s manual. If you require further assistance, after reading this manual, we are here to help:

Have questions? Contact Cobra Electronics at
https://www.cobra.com/pages/contact-us or 800-543-1608
M-F 9:00 AM – 5 PM EST
For Assistance Outside the U.S.A.
Contact Your Local Dealer

Product Features

FCC Regulations

FCC Compliance
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by Cobra Electronics could void your authority to operate the equipment. This device complies with Part 15 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.

Included in this Package

You should find all of the following items in this package:

Installation and Start-Up

Mounting and Connections

Select a location for the transceiver and microphone bracket that is convenient for operation. In automobiles, the transceiver is usually mounted underneath the dash panel, with the microphone bracket beside it. A universal mounting bracket is supplied along with self-tapping screws and star washers. The transceiver is held in the universal mounting bracket by two thumb screws, permitting adjustment at the most convenient angle.

To mount and connect your transceiver:

1. Hold the radio with the mounting bracket in the exact location desired. Remove the mounting bracket and use it as a template to mark the location for the mounting screws.
2. Drill necessary holes and secure the mounting bracket in location.
3. Connect the antenna cable plug to the receptacle marked “ANT” on the back of the unit.
4. Connect the red lead of the DC power cord to an accessory 12-volt fuse.
5. Connect the black lead to the negative side of the automobile. This is usually the chassis. Any convenient location with good electrical contact (remove paint) may be used.
6. Mounting the microphone bracket in a convenient location does not interfere with vehicle operation using the screws supplied.
7. Connect the microphone RJ-45 plug to the 19 MINI RJ-45 front panel jack. Then install the radio into its mounting bracket securely.

NOTE
For improved CB radio performance, connect the radio power leads directly to the vehicle battery. This helps to ensure the following: 1) reduces conducted power line noise into radio by taking advantage of the mechanical filtering properties of the vehicle battery. 2) Using the correct wire gauge between the battery and radio, helps to minimize Voltage drop to the radio transmitter section to maximize transmitter RF output power.

• External Speaker
  The speaker jack on the rear panel is used for an External Speaker. The external speaker should have an 8-gram impedance and be rated to handle at least 4.0 watts. When the external speaker is plugged in, the internal speaker is automatically disconnected.
  NOTE
  Cobra external speakers are rated at 15 watts.
• Power
  These wires supply Power to the CB radio. This cable is permanently attached to the radio. If you wish to remove the radio after installation, disconnect at fuse holder and ground connector.
• CB Antenna
  Only a properly matched Antenna system will allow maximum power output. In mobile installations (cars, trucks, boats, etc.), an antenna system that is nondirectional should be used. When installed in a boat, the transceiver will not operate at maximum efficiency without a ground plate unless the vessel has a steel hull. Before installing the transceiver in a boat, consult your dealer for information regarding an adequate grounding system.
  NOTE
  Cobra offers a line of antennas for use with your 19 Series CB Radio. Go to cobra.com/collections/cb-radio-accessories for antenna and antenna mounting options.
• Microphone Connector
  Allows for convenient removal of the Microphone plug when storage is required. The Microphone MUST be connected to the unit at all times, when in use, for proper operation.

Operation

Display

• A. TX Icon
• B. AM Icon
• C. Auto Squelch Icon
• D. Channel
• E. Key Tone Icon
• F. S/RF Meter
• G. Channel Lock Icon
• H. Channel Frequency
• I. VOX Icon

Operating Your CB Radio

• Turning on Your CB Radio
  Push and release the Vol/ON/OFF knob to power ON the radio.
• Volume
  Rotate the channel knob left or right to adjust the volume.
• Channel 9/Channel 19
  Set CH 9 to obtain instant access to the emergency channel. Set CH 19 to obtain instant access to the information and calling channel.
  Channel 9/19 access:
  1. Push and release the Channel 9/19 button to quickly select Channel 9.
  2. Push and release the Channel 9/19 button a second time to select Channel 19.
  3. Push and release the Channel 9/19 button a third time to return to the last used channel
• Squelch
  This control is used to cut off or eliminate receiver background noise in the absence of an incoming signal when properly adjusted.
  To squelch your radio:
  1. Push and release the SQ/ASQ button.
  2. Rotate the Channel knob to set the desired squelch level.
  3. Push and release the SQ/ASQ button to save the setting.
• Auto Squelch
  The Auto Squelch (ASQ) feature can help to improve the receiver performance experience when enabled for communicating with nearby stations. For weaker or more distant stations consider using the SQ (traditional squelch) system or disabling squelch for continuous receiver audio.
  To auto-squelch your radio:
  1. Push and hold the SQ/ASQ button until “AQ” shows on the LCD. The ASQ level set will also show on the lower left side of the display.
  2. Rotate the Channel knob to set the desired squelch level.
  3. Push and release the SQ/ASQ button to save the setting.
• Operating Procedure to Receive
  Be sure the power cord, antenna, and microphone are connected to the proper connectors before proceeding further (see pages 4 and 5).
  To receive:
  1. Turn ON the radio.
  2. Select the desired channel.
  3. Set squelch to OFF (audio noise heard from the speaker).
  4. Set the receiver volume to a comfortable listening level.
  5. Reset the squelch level for the intended listening requirements.
• Operating Procedure to Transmit
  Be sure the antenna is properly connected to the radio before transmitting. Prolonged transmitting without an antenna, or with a poorly matched antenna, could cause damage to the transmitter.
  To transmit:
  1. Select the desired channel.
  2. The receiver and transmitter are controlled by the Push-to-Talk switch on the microphone. Press the switch and the transmitter is activated; release the switch to receive. When transmitting (on a clear channel), hold the microphone two inches from the mouth and speak clearly in a normal voice.
• Selecting a Channel
  1. Push and release the Channel knob.
  2. Rotate the channel knob left or right to select the channel.
  3. Push and release the channel knob to save the setting. 
• Signal Strength Meter
  The Signal Strength Meter indicates the received signal strength from the antenna. The meter segments shown on the LCD increase with signal strength.
• TX Indicator
  The TX Indicator appears when in transmit mode. In this mode, the meter shows all bars at full output power. 
• Channel Frequency
  Displays the current channel and receive transmit frequency.
• Enable/Disable VOX
  1. Push and hold the Push-To-Talk switch on the microphone, then
  2. Push and release the MENU button.
  3. This will both enable/disable the VOX function.

Menu Options

• Selecting the Menu
  1. Push and release the MENU button to access menu options (see menu options in the Table below).
  2. Rotate the knob to select Menu Option
  3. Push and release the knob on the selected option, then rotate the knob to the desired setting and push the knob again to save the setting

Frequency Ranges

The Cobra 19 MINI radio transceiver represents one of the most advanced AM two-way radios for use as a Class D station in the Citizens Radio Service. This unit features advanced Phase Lock Loop (PLL) circuitry providing complete coverage of all 40 CB channels.

Specifications

Troubleshooting & Maintenance/Adjustment

Ignition Noise Interference

The use of a CB receiver at low signal levels is normally limited by the presence of electrical noise. Under most operating conditions, when the signal level is adequate, the background noise does not present a serious problem. Also, when extremely low-level signals are being received, the transceiver may be operated with the vehicle engine turned off. The unit requires very little current and therefore will not significantly discharge the vehicle battery. Even though this radio has an automatic noise limiter, in some installations ignition interference may be high enough to make good communications impossible. Consult your authorized Cobra dealer or a two-way radio technician for help in locating and correcting the source of severe noise.

Maintenance/Adjustment

Your Cobra CB transceiver is specifically designed for the environment encountered in mobile installations. The use of all solid-state circuitry and its lightweight result in high reliability. Should a failure occur, however, review the following, then if necessary, replace parts only with identical parts. Do not substitute.

1. Check connections to the source of power and make sure it is the 13.8 VDC required to operate your radio.
2. Check the fuses in the DC power cord. The main power lead (red) has a two amp 3AG type fuse in its holder. Use only the above-specified type and size fuse for maximum protection. Failure to do so will void the warranty.
3. Make certain the microphone is properly plugged in.
4. Make certain the antenna is properly assembled and connected. If you are unable to correct the problem, refer to the product service on page 14 for the correct procedure for warranty and post-warranty service from Cobra.

Limited One-Year Warranty

Warranty Terms:
Cobra warrants your product against all defects in materials and workmanship for one (1) year from the date of original purchase. Cobra, at our sole discretion, will repair or replace your product (with the same or comparable product) free of charge. Cobra will not pay the shipping charges that you incur for sending your product to us. Products received COD will be refused.
To make a warranty claim, we will require proof of purchase in the form of an invoice or receipt. No proof of purchase is required for factory-direct purchases.

Warranty Exclusions:
Warranty does not apply to your product under any of the following conditions:

1. The serial number has been removed or modified.
2. Your product has been subjected to misuse or damage (including water damage, physical abuse, and/or improper installation).
3. Your product has been modified in any way.
4. Your receipt or proof-of-purchase is from a non-authorized dealer or internet auction site including E-bay, U-bid, or other non-authorized resellers.

LIMITATION OF WARRANTY: EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED HEREIN, YOU ARE ACQUIRING THE PRODUCT “AS IS” AND “WHERE IS”, WITHOUT REPRESENTATION OR 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.
The above limitations or exclusions shall be limited to the extent they violate the laws of any particular state. Cobra is not responsible for products lost in shipment between the owner and our service center.

General Warranty Information

Each product we manufacture is covered by our factory warranty. While each product may have unique components and policies, the general guideline below will apply to most Cobra products. All Cobra products purchased factory-direct or from our Authorized Resellers will come with a full one to three (1-3) year warranty from the date of the original retail purchase (see policy statement above for full warranty details and exclusions). Standard accessories packaged with each model will have a one-year factory warranty. Accessory items have a one-year factory warranty. Shipping to our facility is not covered by our warranty. Return shipping is included within the US. This warranty is non-transferable. For the sake of clarity, ‘repair or replace the Product or its defective part’ does not include removal or installation work, costs, or expenses which include but are not limited to labor costs or expenses. Cobra will not be responsible for lost packages.

Product Service

If you have any questions about operating or installing your new Cobra product, PLEASE CONTACT COBRA FIRST…do not return this product to any retail store.

• The contact information for Cobra will vary depending on the country in which you purchased and utilize the product. For the latest contact information, please go to www.cobra.com/support
  For products purchased in the U.S.A., you may call 800-543-1608.
• For products purchased in the U.S.A., if your product should require factory service, please please go to www.cobra.com/support and follow the instructions for returning your product
  to the Cobra Factory Service Department for service.
• Should there be any problems with this product or further information is needed on its features please visit www.cobra.com for support, frequently asked questions, Declarations of Conformity, and full manuals.

For Products Purchased Outside the U.S.A. or Canada

Please contact your local dealer for product service information.

For Products Used in Canada

Industry Canada Notice
This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. this device may not cause interference, and
2. this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

FCC/IC/RF Exposure Statement

FCC Part 15.19 Warning Statement

THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS: (1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE, AND THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED, INCLUDING INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION.

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.

FCC Part 15.105(b) Warning Statement

NOTE:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, under 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 by 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 does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

IC RSS-GEN, Sec 8.4 Warning Statement

This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

IC RSS-GEN, Sec 8.3 Warning Statement

This radio transmitter (identify the device by certification number, or model number if Category II) has been approved by Industry Canada to operate with the antenna types listed below with the maximum permissible gain and required antenna impedance for each antenna type indicated. Antenna types not included in this list, having a gain greater than the maximum gain indicated for that type, are strictly prohibited for use with this device. Immediately following the above notice, the manufacturer shall provide a list of all antenna types approved for use with the transmitter, indicating the maximum permissible antenna gain (in dB) and required impedance for each.

RF Exposure Statement

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 40cm between the radiator & your body. The device complies with RF exposure guidelines, users can obtain Canadian information on RF exposure and compliance. The minimum distance from the body to use the device is 40cm.

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