Cobra Hh36st Handheld Tranciever Manual

							Citizens Band
2-way 
Handheld 
CB Radio
“Ingenious Products for 
Easier Communication.” Operating instructions 
for your
COBRA ELECTRONICS CORPORATION
6500 W. Cortland Street
Chicago, Illinois 60707
Printed in Thailand              Cobra Electronics Corp.© 1997            Part no. 480-197-P-001
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							CITIZENS BAND
2-WAY HANDHELD RADIOCONTENTS:Introduction
........................................3
SoundTracker....................................3
Features............................................3
Technical Support and service..........3
Controls and Indicators....................5
The CB Story....................................6
FCC Warnings..................................6
Included with your 36ST......................7
Getting Started....................................8
Antenna............................................8
Battery Chamber..............................8
Operation............................................9
Turning your Hand-Held CB on........9
Setting the Squelch............................9
Selecting a channel........................10
LED Display....................................10
Transmit / Receive..........................10Power High/Low............................11
NiCad Battery Charging..................11
How SoundTracker Works............10A
Activating SoundTracker..............11A
Testing SoundTracker....................11A
NiCad Battery Disposal..................14
In Vehicle Use................................15
How your CB can serve you..............16
Never Used A CB Before?..............16
A few rules you should know..........17
Channel 9 Emergency Messages....18
CB 10 Codes..................................19
Frequency Ranges..............................20
Specifications....................................21
If You Think You Need Service............22
Warranty Information........................23
Optional Accessories..........................24
How to use your
MODEL
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6ST
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H3 INTRODUCTION
Cobra proudly introduces the first Patent Pending technology that dramatically
improves the transmission and reception of CB radio signals.
This revolutionary system reconfigures the transmission signal which allows it to be
transferred more effectively through cluttered airwaves. It literally “punches” your
message through the hundreds of thousands of signals that are in the air. At the same
time, SoundTracker system dynamically adjusts the relationship between the signal
and static commonly referred to as noise. This allows Cobra’s SoundTrackersystem to
significantly reduce the amount of static on all incoming CB signals. The system can
be further optimized when two SoundTrackerCB’s are used to talk to each other.
The end result is a clearer, cleaner sounding reception of signals and more pow-
erful transmissions which 
dramatically
improve CB communications.
The 36ST is designed to give you consistent, outstanding performance in virtually
all conditions and situations. To insure you get the most from the Cobra 36ST,
please read this operating guide carefully before using the unit.
FEATURES-Full 4 Watts Power Output-40 CB Radio Channels
-High Efficiency Flexible Antenna-SoundTracker™ System
-Battery Saver Circuitry-Low Battery Indicator
-High  Low Power Switch-BNC Antenna Connector
-Transmission/Receive Indicators-Charging JackTECHNICAL SUPPORT
For technical assistance, please call our Automated Help Desk
which can assist you by answering the most frequently asked
questions about Cobra products.
(773) 889-3087
24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
AConsumer Service Representative can be 
reached through this same number
8:00 am - 8:00 pm, Monday through Friday, CST.
Technical assistance is also available on-line in the Frequently 
Asked Question (FAQ) section at www.cobraelec.com or by e-mail 
to [email protected] 
						

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CONTROLS
AND INDICATORS
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1. BNC Antenna Connector
2. Squelch Control
3. On/Off Volume Control
4. Belt Clip
5.High & Low Power
6. Channel Up Key
7. Channel Down Key
8. PTT (Push To Talk) Key
9. Battery Chamber
10.Charging Jack
11.DC Power Jack
12.LED Display Panel
13.Microphone
14.SoundTracker Switch 
						

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INCLUDED WITH YOUR 36ST
1. High Efficiency
Antenna
2. Belt Clip
THE CB STORYThe 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.)
FCC regulations permit only “transmissions” (one party to another) rather
than “broadcasts” (to a wide audience). Thus, advertising is not allowed
on CB Channels because that is “broadcasting.”FCC WARNINGSReplacement or substitution of transistors, regular diodes or other parts of
a unique nature, with parts other than those recommended by Cobra, may
cause violation of the technical regulations of Part 95 of the FCC Rules, or
violation of Type Acceptance requirements of Part 2 of the Rules.
Citizens Band (CB) Radio operators are no longer required to obtain an FCC
license to operate their CB equipment or provide station identification.
Nevertheless, an operator of a CB radio station is still required to comply
with the communications act and with the rules of CB Radio Operation. 
						

							BATTERIESInsert (10) new “AA” Alkaline or NiCad bat-
teries (not provided) into the battery cham-
ber. 
To install batteries, (1) remove the battery
chamber cover from the unit. (2) Install the
batteries according to the polarity markings
provided on the chamber. Note: Incorrect
battery installation can damage the batter-
ies and chamber. (3) Return battery cham-
ber cover.
Alkaline batteries:
Top grade Alkaline batteries 
should be used.
9 8
OPERATION
TURNING ON/SQUELCH
TURNING YOUR
HANDHELD CB ONRotate the power ON-OFF
Volume Control clockwise.
Open the squelch by fully turn-
ing counterclockwise 
and adjust the volume to 
a comfortable level.SETTING THE SQUELCHThink of your squelch control 
as a gate for incoming signals. 
If you turn the squelch control
fully clockwise, you effectively
close the “gate” and no signals
will pass through. If you turn 
the squelch control fully counter-
clockwise, you 
open the gate and all 
signals come through.
To achieve the Desired Squelch
Setting (DSS), turn the squelch
control counterclockwise until
you just hear noise. Then turn the
squelch control back clockwise
just until the noise stops. This
DSSsetting only lets strong sig-
nals through. 
ANTENNAAttach antenna securely
by turning clockwise.GETTING STARTED**See Accessories 
on page 22 
for rechargeable
battery pack option.
+
–
+
–+
–
+
–
+
–+
–
+
–
+
–+
–
+
–
Nickel Cadmium (NiCad) Batteries:
Batteries with 700 mAh minimum recom-
mended. Top Grade NiCad batteries can
be ordered direct from Cobra. See page
22 for details. 
						

							PTT
PTTPTT
LED DISPLAY
TRANSMIT / RECEIVETo transmit, push the PTT button.
The Red TX LED will be displayed 
during transmissions.
Hold the 36ST about 2 inches from 
your mouth.
Speak into the microphone in a normal
voice.
Release the PTT button to receive incoming
transmissions.    
**Note: While the PTT button is depressed, 
you cannot receive transmissions.
The Green RXLED is displayed
when the radio is in receive mode.
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OPERATION
POWER HI-LO/BATTERY RECHARGING
OPERATIONSELECT CHANNEL/DISPLAY/TRANSMITSELECTING A CHANNELTurn on your 36ST.
To select a higher channel, push the UP 
arrow key. 
To select a lower channel, push the DOWN
arrow key.
**Note: To quick advance channels, press and
hold the selection key.
•Red LED for TRANSMIT (TX)
•Green LED for RECEIVE (RX)
•Red BATTLOW Indicator
•Red SoundTracker™ “ON” Indicator
POWER HIGH / LOWTo reduces power output to 1 watt,
and extend battery life, switch the H/L
power key to the LOW position.
To return to full power, switch the H/L
power key to the HIGH position.
**Note: Reduce power setting reduces
the range of your 36ST.NI-CAD BATTERY RECHARGINGCaution:Use only the Cobra AC Charger
with your 36ST, so as to avoid the possi-
bility of improper charging, damage to
the batteries, the unit, or an injury from
burn or explosion of the battery or charg-
er. DO NOT CHARGE ALKALINE BAT-
TERIES. THEY MAY EXPLODE OR LEAK.
YOU CANNOT RECHARGE ALKALINE
BATTERIES.
To recharge NiCad batteries, first insert
the plug from the charger into the
charge jack then plug charger into AC
outlet. To charge batteries fully will take
14 hours.
Battery suppliers specify that NiCad
batteries may be recharged up to 1,000
times or more under normal conditions.
There are variations in batteries from
brand to brand even as to size of batter-
ies. Cobra recommends that you use
NiCad batteries rated at a minimum of
700mAh for maximum operation time.
You may wish to order them from Cobra
(see order form at back of this manual
for details). 
						

							OPERATION
ACTIVATING / TESTING SOUNDTRACKER
SOUNDTRACKER SYSTEM
While previous systems only “blanked out” or limited noise in higher
sound frequencies, the revolutionary new SoundTracker System actually
reduces noise while leaving the signal intact in the reception mode. In the
transmission mode, it actually strengthens the signal, providing you with a
significant reduction in noise on reception and transmission.
Sound clarity is measured by the ratio of the signal level
to the noise level. The higher the signal-to-noise ratio, the
better the sound.
HOW SOUNDTRACKER WORKSOn Reception–
“Cuts Noise Coming In”
With a normal CB, distant signals fall below the squelch level and are
unintelligible. With a SoundTracker CB, the noise level is cut by up to
90%, which increases the signal-to-noise ratio and dramatically improves
signal clarity. This also allows you to significantly reduce the squelch
level, which greatly expands your listening range.On Transmission–
“Strengthens Signals Going Out”
A SoundTracker CB strengthens the transmit signal by more effectively
using the available RF power output of the CB. The result is improved
transmission signal clarity and an expanded transmission range.
11A
10A
OPERATIONHOW SOUNDTRACKER WORKS
ACTIVATING SOUNDTRACKER
1.Switch the SoundTracker toggle to ON
position.
TESTING SOUNDTRACKER
1.Select any unused channel on your CB.
2.Open the squelch fully by turning the knob
counter-clockwise until it stops.
3.Turn the volume up louder than your 
normal listening level.
4.Switch the SoundTracker toggle off and on.
Notice the significant reduction in noise. 
						

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OPERATION
IN VEHICLE USE
OPERATIONBATTERY DISPOSALBATTERY DISPOSALWhen no longer capable of holding a
charge, rechargeable nickel cadmium
(Ni-Cad) batteries must be recycled or
disposed of properly in compliance
with all applicable laws. Certain states
or municipalities require recycling
and have established collection pro-
grams. Please contact your local waste
removal authority for instructions.
DO NOT PUT BATTERIES INTO FIRE
OR EXPOSE TO HIGH HEAT. THEY
MAY EXPLODE.
IN VEHICLE USEYour 36ST can be connected 
to a 12 volt power source with 
the cigarette power cord adapter
provided. Connect adapter 
as shown.
**Note: Due to the characteristics of
CB transmissions, it may be
difficult to transmit and
receive from inside your car.
Roof mounted antennas can
dramatically improve trans-
missions and will increase
your range. You will need a
quality roof mount antenna
and a BNC/SO239 adapter.
See accessories section for
details.  
						

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OPERATION
A FEW RULES YOU SHOULD KNOW
OPERATIONHOW YOUR CB CAN SERVE YOU
A FEW RULES YOU SHOULD KNOW 1. You are not allowed to carry on a conversation with another station for
more than five minutes at a time without taking a one-minute break to
give others a chance to use the channel.
2. You are not allowed to blast others off the air by overpowering them
with illegally amplified transmitter power or illegal high antennas.
3. You can’t use the CB to promote illegal activities.
4. You are not allowed to use profanity.
5. You may not play music in your CB.
6. You may not use your CB to sell merchandise or professional service.
HOW YOUR CB CAN 
SERVE YOU •Warn of traffic tie ups ahead.
•Provide weather and 
road information.
•Provide help fast in event of emer-
gency or breakdown.
•Suggest good spots to eat 
and sleep.
•Make long trips more interesting,
and help keep 
you awake.•Provide direct contact with your
office or home.
•Make friends as you travel.
•Provide “local information” to find
your destination.
•Help law enforcement 
officers by reporting drunk 
and reckless drivers.Never Used A CB Before?WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR NEW COBRA CITIZENS 
BAND TRANSCEIVER
Citizens Band Two-Way Radios operate on an AM frequency, just
like your car radio.FIRST:When you first use your new CB you should tune to channel 19.
At first, you may hear what you think is a lot of noise and garble.
What you are hearing are parts of many faraway conversations
that are drifting into your transceiver. To eliminate the noise
you need to set up the SQUELCH control. It will silence the
noise by tuning your receiver to hear only close-by com-
munications. Turn the SQUELCH control to the right until you
silence the noise. You will need to adjust this control as the
noise level will go up or down depending on your location.
SECOND:Try a broadcast. Say, Break One-Nine for a Radio Check.
Listen for a response from another CBer near you. If you do
not get a response repeat the message. When you get a
response ask, How are you receiving my transmission?
NOW YOU ARE ON THE AIR! Try asking about the road con-
ditions, the weather conditions, a good place to eat.Dont be
afraid to talk. 
						

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CB10-CODESCitizens Band radio operators have largely adopted the “10-code”for
standard questions and answers. Its use permits faster communications
and better understanding in noisy areas. The following table lists some
of the more common codes and their meanings:
CodeMeaningCodeMeaning10-1Receiving poorly
10-2Receiving well
10-3Stop transmitting
10-4OK, message received
10-5Relay message
10-6Busy, stand by
10-7Out of service, leaving air
10-8In service, subject to call
10-9Repeat message
10-10Transmission completed, 
standing by
10-11Talking too rapidly
10-12Visitors present
10-13Advise Weather/Road 
conditions
10-16Make pick up at
10-17Urgent business
10-18Anything for us?
10-19Nothing for you, return to base
10-20My location is
10-21Call by telephone
10-22Report in person to
10-23Stand by
10-24Completed last assignment
10-25Can you contact
10-26Disregard last information
10-27I am moving to channel
10-28Identify your station
10-29Time is up for contact
10-30Does not conform to FCC rules
10-32I will give you a radio check
10-33EMERGENCY TRAFFIC
10-34Trouble at this station
10-35Confidential information
10-36Correct time is10-37Wrecker needed at
10-38Ambulance needed at
10-39Your message delivered
10-41Please turn to channel
10-42Traffic accident at
10-43Traffic Tie up at
10-44I have a message for you
10-45All units within range 
please report
10-50Break channel
10-60What is next 
message number?
10-62Unable to copy, 
use phone
10-63Net directed to
10-64Net clear
10-65Awaiting your next 
message/assignment
10-67All units comply
10-70Fire at
10-71
Proceed with transmissionin sequence
10-77Negative contact
10-81Reserve hotel room for
10-82Reserve room for
10-84My telephone number is
10-85My address is
10-91Talk closer to mike
10-93Check my frequency on
this channel
10-94Please give me a 
long count
10-99Mission completed, all 
units secure
10-200Police needed at
Operating Procedure for Emergency Communications
1.
For EMERGENCYcommunications, set radio to Ch. 9. For non-
emergency communications, select desired Channel by rotating the
CHANNEL UP/DOWN tuning knob until reaching the desired Channel.Be sure the antenna is properly connected to the radio before transmit-
ting. Prolonged transmitting without an antenna, or use of a poorly
matched antenna, could cause damage to the transmitter.
2.When asking for aid on Channel 9 it is suggested that you request a
REACTbase to respond by saying Break Channel 9 for a REACT base
and provide the CB DISTRESS DATA (called CLIP):
CALL SIGN-Identify yourself and vehicle.
LOCATION-Be exact.
INJURIES-Number. Type. Trapped?
PROBLEM- Give details and help required. Air CLIP
repeatedly so any
monitor can aid you.
If you dont receive a response on Ch. 9; try Ch.14 or 19.
USE CHANNEL 9 FOR EMERGENCY ONLYFCC gives the following examples of permitted and prohibited types of
communications for use on Channel 9. These are guidelines and are not
intended to be all-inclusive.
PermittedExample Message
YesA tornado sighted six miles north of town.
NoThis is observation post number 10. No tornado sighted.
YesI am out of gas on Interstate 95 at mile marker 121.
NoI am out of gas in my driveway.
YesThere is a four-car collision at Exit 10 on the Beltway,
send police and ambulance.
NoTraffic is moving smoothly on the Beltway.
YesBase to Unit 1, the Weather Bureau has just issued a
thunderstorm warning. Bring the sailboat into port.
NoAttention all motorists. The Weather Bureau advises that
the snow tomorrow will accumulate 4 to 6 inches.
YesThere is a fire in the building on the corner of 6th and
Main Streets.
NoThis is Halloween patrol unit number 3. Everything is
quiet here.