GMRS Product Support

• Power Cycling
• To power cycle the radio:
  • Turn the VOL/PWR knob off
  • Wait 10 seconds
  • Turn the VOL/PWR knob on
  • Alternatively, you can remove and replace the battery
• Radio Does Not Turn On
  • Ensure the battery or batteries are correctly installed
  • Remove any attached accessories, and check that the battery is charged
  • Recharge or fully replace the battery if it does not charge
• Radio Does Not Charge
  • When using a dock charger, make sure the radio is fully seated in the charger
  • Verify illumination of the charging light (on radio or dock)
  • If necessary, check the charger contacts and cable connections
  • Test the charging cable with another device if possible
  • Test the dock with another radio if possible
• Battery Issues
  • In the case of a low battery, the indicator will flash, or the radio may give a low battery warning
  • Low batteries can result in increased interference, transmission/reception problems, or the radio powering off
  • Do not mix different battery types
  • Only OEM NiMH batteries can be recharged directly in Cobra radios
  • Use a separate charger for other rechargeable types
  • NEVER attempt to charge non-rechargeable alkaline batteries
• Factory Settings Reset
  • To perform a factory reset, start with the radio powered off.
  • Turn on the radio while holding (Menu + Down arrow).

• FIND Function Limitations
  • The FIND function will attempt to detect the privacy code of another radio’s transmission. If necessary, please reset applicable radios to regular frequencies without privacy codes. FIND will detect near-field signals, but may not detect a distant signal, regardless of strength.
• Error Beeps
  • If the radio buttons are locked, many controls will be restricted and will result in an error beep when used. Unlock the keyboard to access the menu and other functions. On applicable models, the Cobra Customer Programming Software (CPS) can set user controls to restrict access, triggering error beeps if users try restricted functions.
• Factory Reset
  • To restore default settings:
    1. Power off the radio
    2. Simultaneously hold the MENU and DOWN buttons and power on the radio.
  • This will reset all settings and channel banks to factory defaults.

• Earpiece Issues/Poor Audio Quality
  • Verify there is sufficient battery charge in both the transmitting and receiving radios. The speaker/microphone should be fully connected and seated properly in the radio jack. Power cycle the radio with the speaker mic connected. If possible, try using an alternative speaker-microphone accessory.
• Poor Reception/Audio Quality
  • Ensure the channel and privacy code match on the transmitting and receiving radios
  • Check the volume level on the receiving radio
  • Inspect the antenna for any damage
    
  • If using VOX, check the sensitivity level and disable if needed
    
  • Try temporarily disabling the automatic squelch to hear weaker signals
    
  • Power cycle the radio with the speaker-mic connected
    
  • Clean any dirt/grime around the speaker vent
• Audio Transmission Cutoff
  • Press the PTT button and pause before speaking to prevent cutoff
  • With VOX, make an initial sound to trigger the transmitter before speaking
  • Avoid long pauses when speaking with VOX
  • Check for interference on the channel from other transmissions
• Range Considerations
  • Range can be affected by terrain, obstructions, weather, and other factors. To maximize performance:
    • Fully charge your batteries as needed
    • Ensure the antenna is properly connected and undamaged
    • Set the radio to high transmit power and use high-power channels
    • Hold the radio vertically with the antenna facing upright
    • Move to a higher elevation or location with fewer obstacles
    • Enable the Monitor/Max Range/Range Extender function
• Under ideal conditions (no obstructions between radios) a 2W radio may work well over 30+ miles.
  • Altitude (peak to peak or peak to valley) can also provide optimal range.
  • Radio performance and range is greatly impacted when using the radios indoors or from inside of a vehicle.
  • In optimal conditions outdoors (flat ground with minimal obstructions) a 2W radio range may be 2-3+ miles, slightly further over open water.
  • For compatible models, consider a high gain antenna for improved range.
• Repeaters are the best solution to improve range.
  • Your radio can transmit its signal to a repeater which will then relay the signal, effectively extending your range.
  • Repeaters operate at higher power than handheld radios and are typically installed on buildings or towers for increased coverage. 
  • Conventional FRS radios do not support repeater use, only GMRS and LMR units will support the use of repeaters.

Guide coming soon.

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