GX29427 MHZ AM MARINE

TRANSCEIVER

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

STANDARD COMMUNICATIONSPTY. LTD.

Complies with Australian Standard 4367-1996Issue 02

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2

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Controls & Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Operating on the 27 MHz Marine Band . . 10

Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

CONTENTS

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The GME Electrophone GX294 is a highquality 27 MHz AM marine transceiver. TheGX294 is wholly designed by StandardCommunications Pty. Ltd. in Australia, withspecial attention being given to providingprotection from the harsh marine environment.The outer case is made from non-corrosiveUV resistant A.B.S. and all case joins are fittedwith neoprene or PVC seals. A new low profilemicrophone plug has been added, complete

with rubber “boot” to resist water ingress. Thehigh intensity LED display provides goodvisibil ity under a wide range of viewingconditions. In addition, the GX294 features aDual Watch facility, instant emergency/callchannel 88 selection and an advancedimpulse noise suppression circuit (ISC) toprovide clean, clear reception under thenoisiest electrical conditions.

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INTRODUCTION

� Front mounted speaker with waterresistant mylar cone. Designedspecifically for the marine environment, thewater resistant front mounted speakerprojects the sound forward for greaterclarity and less distortion.

� Interference Suppression Circuit.Eliminates impulse noise caused byelectrical equipment and outboard motorsallowing only crystal clear voice signals tobe heard.

� Dual Watch. Allows you to monitor boththe calling/distress channel (88) AND anyother selected channel.

� Channel 88 Recall. Provides instantselection of the calling/distress channel atany time.

� Electret Microphone. The Electretmicrophone insert provides a higher voicelevel and an improved frequency responsefor crisper, clearer more natural audio.

� Miniature microphone plug. Utilises a 6pin telephone style plug and socketcombining superior cord grip strength witha low profile installation.

� Ultra bright LED display. The channeldisplay utilises High Intensity Light EmittingDiode technology to produce a displaywhich is easy to read under a wide rangeof viewing conditions.

� Superior Receiver Performance. Thereceiver has been specifically designed toprovide high sensitivity to weak signals andsuperior noise performance with minimumbackground noise.

� Designed specifically for marine use.The GX294 is NOT a modified CBtransceiver. It is entirely purpose designedas a marine transceiver with a non-corrosive housing made from UV StabilisedA.B.S. The housing features neoprene andPVC case seals to reduce the risk of wateringress should the radio be accidentallysplashed or exposed to light rain or spray.In addition, the microphone plug/socketcavity is sealed with a rubber “boot” tominimise the possibility of corrosion andthe push buttons are part of a rubbermembrane to give total water exclusion.

� Spare fuse holder. A unique fuse storagebracket installed on the GX294’s rearpanel, retains two spare fuses to ensurethat you have access to the correct fuse ifyou should need it.

� Built-in Speech Processor Circuitry.Automatically raises the average level ofyour transmitted voice for greater clarityand better penetration under poor signalconditions.

� Isolated earth chassis. Allows installationin either positive or negative earth vessels.

FEATURES

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27.68 MHz - 27.98 MHzPhase locked loop 0.001%12; 10 fitted.27.68, 27.72, 27.82, 27.8627.88, 27.90, 27.91, 27.9427.96, 27.98 MHz50 OhmS0-239 panel socket10.8 - 15.2 Volts DC12.6 Volts DCIsolated chassis (positive or negative earth)0° C to 55° C.8 Ohm Mylar 2 Watt8 Ohm with 3.5mm mono jackHigh intensity Red LED2 Amp 3AG (30mm) fuse plus internal fusible link.

Transient voltage regulator and shunt diode2 seconds172mm (W) x 52mm (H) x 173mm (D)

4 Watts maximum legal powerAM60% modulation @ 1 Pascal-12dB @ 300Hz, -16dB @ 3kHz (relative to 1kHz).Better than -40dBBetter than 6% @ 60% modulationElectret type1.6 Amps @ full modulation Better than -65dBc

Dual conversion superheterodyne10.695 MHz455 kHz0.5uV for 12dB SINAD (0.35 uV Typical)50dB @ 1mV input-36dB @ ± 6kHz, -60dB @ ± 10kHz-90dB-60dBTight = 10uV, Threshhold = 0.2uVLess than 10dB change in Audio output over 1uV to 30mV RF input range.3 Watts into 8 ohms (10% dist)Full volume = 800mA,Squelched = 350mA-70dBm-50dB @ 1mV RF input

GENERAL

Frequency Range:Frequency Control:Frequency stability:

No. of channels:Frequencies fitted:

Antenna Impedance:Antenna Connector:

Voltage Range:Nominal Voltage :

Polarity:Temperature Range:

Internal Speaker:Extension Speaker:

Channel display:Current Protection:

Reverse polarity andovervoltage protection:

Dual Watch Rate:Dimensions:

TRANSMITTER

RF Output Power:Modulation Mode :

Modulation Sensitivity:Frequency response :

Hum and Noise :Modulation Distortion:

Microphone:Current consumption:

Harmonic and spurious suppression:

RECEIVER

System:IF Frequencies – 1st:

– 2nd:Sensitivity :

Maximum S/N:Selectivity :

Image Rejection:Intermodulation:Squelch Range:

AGC Range :

Audio Output:Current consumption:

Spurious Emissions:Hum and Noise:

4

SPECIFICATIONS

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� Volume On/Off Control. Rotate theVolume control clockwise past the click toturn the GX294 ON. Adjust the volumecontrol for a comfortable listening level.

� Squelch Control. The squelch control isused to eliminate any annoyingbackground noise when there are nosignals present. To adjust the squelch,first rotate it fully counter-clockwise untilthe background noise is heard. Thenadvance the squelch control clockwiseunti l the noise just disappears. Thereceiver will now remain quiet as long asthere are no signals present, but anincoming signal will override the squelchand be heard in the speaker. As thecontrol is advanced further clockwise, thesquelch action is progressively increasedand stronger incoming signals are neededto override it. To receive extremely weaksignals or to disable the squelch, simplyturn the control fully counter-clockwise.

� Channel Selector. Select the requiredchannel by rotating the channel selectorclockwise or counter-clockwise. Theselected channel is displayed on the LEDchannel display. Note that if full strengthsunlight is falling on the channel display itmay be hard to see. In this case refer tothe numbers around the channel selectorknob.

� ISC Switch. The ISC switch activates anextremely effective InterferenceSuppression Circuit (Noise Blanker). Whenselected, the ISC combines with a built inAutomatic Noise Limiter (ANL) to almosttotally el iminate electrical impulseinterference, allowing clear reception ofweak signals even under the noisiestelectrical conditions.

When the ISC switch is selected, the RedLED indicator above it lights.

� Channel 88 Switch. The channel 88switch allows instant selection of theDistress and Calling frequency 27.88 MHz.When selected, 88 appears in the channeldisplay and the red Channel 88 LED abovethe button lights. Pressing the 88 switchagain, returns the GX294 to the lastselected channel.

The channel 88 switch can be used toprovide instant switching between thecalling channel (88) and your local clubchannel as follows:

1. Select your club channel by rotating thechannel selector switch (e.g. channel 94).

2. Press the 88 button in. Channel 88 willbe displayed and the red channel 88 LEDwill light.

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CONTROLS AND FUNCTIONS

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Now, whenever you are called on channel88 and you wish to go to your clubchannel, simply press the 88 button torelease the switch. When you havefinished your conversation, press the88 button in again to return to channel 88.

� Dual Watch Switch. The Dual Watchswitch allows the GX294 to monitorchannel 88 AND any other selectedchannel. Any signals received on channel88 will take priority over signals on theselected channel.

When the DW switch is first selected, theDW indicator LED above the button lightsand the selected channel is displayed.Then, every two seconds, the receiverquickly switches to channel 88. If there areno signals on channel 88, the receiverimmediately returns to the selectedchannel. If a signal appears on theselected channel, it will be heard, but thereceiver will continue to switch to channel88 every two seconds and a briefinterruption to the signal will be noticedeach time.

If any signal is found on channel 88, thereceiver will stop switching and will remainon channel 88 for as long as the signal ispresent. During this period the red channel88 indicator LED will flash. When thesignal has gone, the receiver will beginDual Watching again.

Pressing the Push-to-talk button on themicrophone causes the GX294 to transmiton the selected channel.

� RX Indicator. A green LED which lightswhile the GX294 is in the receiver modeand extinguishes in the transmit mode.

� TX Indicator. A red LED which lights onlywhen transmitting.

� DW Indicator. A red LED which lightswhen the Dual Watch function is selected.

� Channel 88 Indicator. A red LED whichlights when the 88 switch is selected. Italso lights and flashes when channel 88 isactive in the Dual watch mode.

� ISC Indicator. A red LED which lights whenthe ISC function is selected.

� Microphone Socket. The microphoneattachment on the GX294 is a uniquearrangement which uti l ises a 6 pintelephone style plug and socket. Thisprovides superior cord grip strength and alow profile installation. The cord entry isthen sealed against moisture by a rubbergrommet.

� LED Channel Display. The LED channeldisplay shows the currently selectedchannel.

� Transmitting. To transmit, press the PTTbutton on the microphone. Hold themicrophone 2-6 cm from your mouth andslightly to one side, so that your voice doesnot project directly into the microphone.Speak at a normal voice level.

The GX294 has a built-in speech processorcircuit which automatically controls theaverage level of your transmitted voice forgreater clarity and better “penetration”under poor signal conditions. It is notnecessary to raise your voice or shout intothe microphone.

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Microphone

PTT Switch

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It is advisable to spend a little time selectingthe best location for your GX294. Thetransceiver should normally be mountedhorizontally, but may be mounted vertically ifdesired. The bracket supplied can be fittedabove or below the case allowing the GX294to be cradled by the bracket or suspendedfrom it. Alternatively, the GX294 can be flushmounted to a panel or bulkhead.

When choosing a suitable location, considerthe following points:

1. Install the GX294 in a sheltered position.The design of the GX294 providesprotection against accidental splashes anddrips, but the equipment is not totallywaterproof. Exposure to heavy rain,continuous spray or immersion will result indamage to the transceiver.

2. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight forprolonged periods which could causeoverheating.

3. Choose a spot where the microphone andall controls are easily accessible and theloudspeaker can be heard from the normalsteering position. An extension speakermay be installed if required.

4. Components and currents flowing in theGX294 create magnetic fields. To avoidinterference to steering compasses or autopilot sensors, the GX294 should bepositioned at least half a meter (50cm) fromsuch equipment.

MOUNTING

Your GX294 can be either mounted on a shelfor flush mounted into a bulkhead or panel. Ifflush mounting the GX294 we recommend youuse the optional MK200W flush mounting kitavailable from your GME branch or dealer.This will help give a professional appearanceto your installation.

Shelf Mounting

Attach the bracket above or below the shelfas desired using the screws provided. Secure

the radio to the bracket by means of thethumb screws. Remember that the fixings foroverhead mounting may have to withstandheavy pounding when the vessel is in roughwater or being towed on a trailer.

Flush Mounting

Using the MK200W flush mounting kit:

If using the optional MK200W flush mountingkit, simply follow the instructions providedwith the kit. The fully self supporting design ofthe MK200W greatly simplifies installation andprovides a professional finish.

Using the standard mounting bracket:

I f f lush mounting the GX294 using thestandard mounting bracket, we recommendthe following procedure:

1. Cut a slot in the bulkhead or panel 172mmwide x 52mm high. The corners of the slotshould be rounded to fit neatly with theshape of the GX294’s case.

7

INSTALLATION

MK200W FlushMounting Kit

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2. If not already fitted, install a small shelfbehind the bulkhead to take the mountingbracket. Slide the GX294 through the slotfrom the front and fit the mounting bracketto the shelf from behind the bulkhead.Adjust the assembly so the radio protrudesthrough the slot as required and screw thebracket into that position. Mount themicrophone holder in a convenient positionnear the transceiver. Avoid fouling otherequipment with the microphone cord.

Power Connections

The GX294 can be installed in vessels witheither positive or negative ground electrical

systems. The radio’s positive (RED) lead mustbe connected to the positive (+) side of theelectrical system and the negative (BLACK)lead must connect to the negative (-) side.Reversal of these connections will cause thefuse to blow and may seriously damage thetransceiver and void the warranty.

If the fuse blows at any time, FIT ONLY THECORRECT 2 AMP 3AG (30mm) type. Twospare fuses are clamped to the GX294’s rearpanel.

If the power leads are not long enough theycan be extended using at least 4mm outsidediameter cable.

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SPK09

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It is recommended that the microphone be leftpermanently connected to the GX294, but if itmust be disconnected proceed as follows:-

1. Insert a small screwdriver between therubber boot and lip of the raised area onthe front panel.

2. Ease the rubber boot out of the cable entryhole and slide it along the cable away fromthe front panel.

3. Identify the plug locking lever, work thescrewdriver blade behind it and move thelever towards the plug body, at the sametime gently pull the plug from the socket.

( See diagram below )

If required, replacement microphones areavailable with plug and rubber boot alreadyfitted.

ANTENNA INSTALLATION

It is essential to select a good quality highefficiency 27 MHz marine antenna. A poorquality antenna or one not designed for the 27MHz marine band wil l give very poorperformance and could cause damage to thetransceiver. Standard 27 MHz CB antennasare NOT suitable.

GME manufacture a wide range of antennassuitable for every application. These includesmall antennas for runabouts, swivel bases forvarious mounting positions, larger antennasfor cruisers and even antennas designedspecifically for yachts.

All GME antennas are pretuned therebyeliminating the need for ground planes andtuning units. You do not even need to beconcerned with the construction of your craft.All GME antennas are suitable for aluminium,fibreglass, ferro cement or t imberconstruction.

When installing the antenna, make sure that itis well clear of any metal rails or rigging, asthese will detune it and reduce performance.

The cable should be fed through a small holein the cabin or deck. The rubber grommetsupplied provides a tidy fit and can be sealedwith silastic. The PL259 type antenna plugshould be screwed to the antenna jack on therear of the GX294. DO NOT CUT THE COAXCABLE. If the supplied cable is too long, coilit up out of the way. Shortening the cable willadversely affect the antenna’s tuning.

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NEVER TRANSMIT WITHOUT ANANTENNA CONNECTED

OTHERWISE DAMAGE MAYRESULT TO THE TRANSCEIVER.

DISCONNECTING THEMICROPHONE

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Normal Operating Procedure

Most calls to other vessel or stations aremade on channel 88. After listening to ensurechannel 88 is clear, call the other station,repeating both call signs three times.

e.g.“Coast Guard, Coast Guard,Coast Guard,This is –Seaspray, Seaspray, Seaspray,Over.”

Once contact has been established, movestraight to another channel (e.g. 91 or 94) tocontinue your conversation leaving channel 88clear for emergencies or further calls. Don’tforget to return to channel 88 or select dualwatch when you have finished otherwise youmay miss other calls meant for you.

Emergency Procedures

All emergency calls should be made onchannel 88. There are three main types ofEmergency call.

1. “MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY”

This call should be used where you are ingrave and imminent danger and require

immediate assistance. You should callMAYDAY three times followed by your vesselsname or callsign three times. Then state yourposition, a brief description of your vessel, thenature of the emergency, the number ofpeople on board and their condition. If youhear no reply, repeat the call at short intervalsbecause someone may be able to hear youbut you might not be able to receive theirreply.

After contact has been made, follow anyinstructions given to you.

2. “PAN PAN, PAN PAN, PAN PAN”

Use this call when an emergency situationexists but there is no immediate danger. Thecall should be made the same way as theMAYDAY call. If you hear no reply repeat thecall at regular intervals.

3. “SECURITE, SECURITE, SECURITE”(Pronounced Say-cure-e-tay).

This call is used to warn other shipping ofdangers or hazards e.g. bad weather,container adrift etc. The call may be made to alocal monitoring station or to all ships in thearea.

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CHANNEL FREQUENCY USE

68 27.680 MHz Commercial, ship-shore-ship

72 27.720 MHz Professional fishing

82 27.820 MHz Professional fishing

86 27.860 MHz Secondary distress and safety

88 27.880 MHz Primary distress and calling only

90 27.900 MHz Domestic ship-shore-ship

91 27.910 MHz Domestic ship-shore-ship

94 27.940 MHz Club events, ship-shore-ship

96 27.960 MHz Ship to ship

98 27.980 MHz Rescue organisations

MARINE CHANNEL ASSIGNMENTS

OPERATING ON THE 27MHZ MARINE BAND

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11

GME ELECTROPHONE APPROVED ACCESSORIES

OTHER QUALITY GME ELECTROPHONE PRODUCTS

SPK09

GX548

CH 16

Auto Seaphone

DN

27 MHz MARINE ANTENNAS

AE60 - 1.8 Mtr Pretuned Antenna - white.Comes with lead & plug.

AE60B - 1.8 Mtr Pretuned Antenna – blackwhip for ultra violet protection. Comes with lead and plug.

AE61BY - 1.8 Mtr Pretuned Yacht Antenna.

AE96 - 2.5 Mtr Pretuned Antenna with two-way swivel base. Comes with lead & plug.

AE229 - 1/2 Wave Aluminium 26 – 28 MHzBase Antenna.

ACCESSORIES

PSA123 - 2 Amp continuous Power Supply.

SPK04 - 4 Ohm extension speaker withflush mounting plug & 1.7 meter lead.

SPK09 - 4 Ohm Box type extensionspeaker with lead and plug.

MK200W - Flush Mounting Kit.

GX558A - 54 ChannelVHF Transceiver with fistmicrophone LCD display and built-in Seaphone.

GX548 - 54 ChannelVHF Transceiver with fistmicrophone and LED display.

GX292 - 27 Mhz AMHandheld Transceiver.

GX560 - Handheld 54Channel VHF Transceiver, 3 Watt/ 1 Watt output.

GX558A

AE60

PSA123

SPK09

MK200W

SPK04

AE96 AE61BY AE229

GX548

GX292

GX560

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A Division of

Head Office: SYDNEY6 Frank Street, GLADESVILLE 2111

Ph: (02) 9844 6666 Fax: (02) 9844 6600

MELBOURNE96 Voltri Street,

MENTONE 3194(03) 9584 8099

Fax : (03) 9584 8446

BRISBANEUnit 1, 89-101 Factory Rd,

OXLEY 4075(07) 3278 6444

Fax : (07) 3278 6555

ADELAIDEUnit 1/4 West Thebarton Rd,

THEBARTON 5031(08) 8234 2633

Fax : (08) 8234 5138

AUCKLANDP.O. Box 58446GREENMOUNT(09) 274 0955

Fax : (09) 274 0959

PERTHUnit 4, 43 Norma Rd,

MYAREE 6154(08) 9330 5322

Fax : (08) 9317 1787

STANDARD COMMUNICATIONS PTY. LTD.

GME ELECTROPHONE limit this warranty tothe original purchaser of the equipment.

GME ELECTROPHONE warrant this productto be free from defects in material andworkmanship for a period of twelve (12)months from the date of purchase from theirauthorised dealer.

Should the product require servicing duringthis period, all labour and parts used to effectrepairs will be supplied free of charge. GMEELECTROPHONE reserve the right todetermine whether damage has beenoccasioned by accident, misuse or improperinstallation whereby the warranty would bevoid, including:

Transceivers which have been damaged dueto:

(a) Incorrect or reverse polarity connection toa battery or power supply.

(b) Connection to incorrect supply voltage.

(c) Operation without an antenna or by

connection to an antenna which has beenincorrectly installed, resulting in damageto the transceiver’s output transistors.

(d) Effects of water or moisture penetration.

(e) Non-factory modifications.

(f) Use of incorrect replacement fuse.

Procedure followed by claimant:-In the event of a defect occurring during thetwelve (12) month warranty period, the originalpurchaser may return the defective unit alongwith suitable proof of purchase date(i.e. receipt, docket, credit card slip etc.) and afull description of the defect to the Dealerfrom whom the unit was purchased.

All freight charges incurred for transportationby the Dealer or GME ELECTROPHONE arethe purchaser’s responsibility.

The Dealer may be able to repair the defect ormay forward unit to the closest authorisedGME ELECTROPHONE Service Depot inyour particular State.

GME ELECTROPHONE AFTER SALES SERVICE

Your ELECTROPHONE transceiver is especially designed for the environment encountered inmarine installations. The use of all solid state circuitry, careful design and rigorous testing, resultin high reliability. Should failure occur however, GME ELECTROPHONE maintain a fullyequipped service facility and spare parts stock to meet the customer’s requirements long afterexpiry of the warranty period.

WARRANTY

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