8
Northtstar
Explorer VHF Series: 710US, 710EU
Operation and Installation Manual
1-6 Basic Operation and Key Functions
All possible keys and their functions are listed. Note that some of the keys are not available depending on
your Northstar VHF radio model.
Key Function
VOL/PWR
Volume and Power.
Turn clockwise to power on. Continue to turn until a comfortable
volume is reached. VOL/PWR will also adjust the settings of an external speaker, if
connected.
SQL
Squelch
or
Threshold Level.
Sets the threshold level for the minimum receiver
signal. Turn fully counterclockwise until random noise is heard, then turn slowly
clockwise until the random noise disappears. Make another 1/4 turn clockwise for
best reception in open sea conditions.
In areas of high noise (eg close to large cities) reception may improve if sensitivity
is reduced. Either turn SQL slowly clockwise or use the LOCAL setting. See section
2.3.
16/9
Priority Channel.
VHF 710US only. Also on the microphone. Press to cancel all other
modes and to tune into the priority channel. Press again to return to your original
channel.
The default is Channel 16. To make Channel 09 the priority channel, hold down 16/9
until a beep sounds and 09 is displayed.
16
Priority Channel.
VHF 710EU. Also on the microphone. Press to cancel all other
modes and to tune into the priority channel, Channel 16, on high power. Press
again to return to your original channel.
WX
Weather Channel.
VHF 710US. In USA and Canadian waters, press to hear the most
recently selected weather station. The WX symbol is displayed on the LCD.
Press + or - to change to a diff erent weather channel. Press WX again to return to
the most recent channel.
If the weather alert mode (ALT) is ON and an alert tone of 1050Hz is broadcast from
the weather station, it is picked up automatically and the alarm sounds. Press any
key to hear the weather alert voice message.