BAOFENG UV-16 Series

User Manual for Baofeng UV-16 Series Walkie Talkie

Model: UV-16 / UV-16 Plus / UV-16 V2 Plus / UV16 Max

Brand: BAOFENG

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the operation and maintenance of your Baofeng UV-16 series walkie talkie. The UV-16 is a powerful, waterproof, dual-band two-way radio designed for reliable communication. It features USB Type-C fast charging, a high-gain antenna, and a robust, user-friendly design. Please read this manual thoroughly before using your device to ensure proper function and safety.

Baofeng UV-16 radio highlighting Tri-Power, IP68 Waterproof, FM/VHF/UHF frequencies, and USB-C Charger.
Figure 1: Baofeng UV-16 Series Walkie Talkie - Key Features Overview

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:

  • 1 x Portable radio (UV-16 / UV-16 Plus)
  • 1 x Antenna
  • 1 x Li-ion battery pack
  • 1 x Belt clip
  • 1 x The Sling (Lanyard)
  • 1 x Charger (Desktop Charger)
  • 1 x User's manual
  • (Additional accessories may be included depending on your specific purchase option)
Contents of the standard Baofeng UV-16 package: Radio, Antenna, Battery, Desktop Charger, Belt Clip, Lanyard.
Figure 2: Standard Package Contents

3. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the main components and controls of your UV-16 radio.

Labeled diagram of Baofeng UV-16 radio components: Antenna, Flashlight, Knob, LED indicator, LCD Display, PTT, Accessory Jack, Side Key, Type-C Jack, Microphone, Keypad.
Figure 3: UV-16 Radio Component Diagram
  • Antenna: For transmitting and receiving signals.
  • Flashlight: Built-in LED torch for illumination.
  • Knob: Power ON/OFF and volume control.
  • LED Indicator: Shows radio status (e.g., transmitting, receiving, charging).
  • LCD Display: Shows frequency, channel, and other operational information.
  • PTT (Push-to-Talk) Button: Press to transmit, release to receive.
  • Accessory Jack: For connecting external audio accessories (e.g., headset, speaker mic).
  • Side Key: Programmable function key.
  • Type-C Jack: For USB Type-C charging.
  • Microphone: For voice input during transmission.
  • Keypad: For manual programming, channel selection, and menu navigation.
Close-up of Baofeng UV-16 showing Frequency/Channel Switching Key (V/M), Big Individual FM Key (FM), and PTT Button.
Figure 4: Key Function Overview

4. Setup

4.1 Battery Installation

  1. Align the battery pack with the grooves on the back of the radio.
  2. Slide the battery pack upwards until it clicks into place.
  3. Ensure the fixing screw is tightened to secure the battery firmly.
Close-up of the battery compartment with a fixing screw, ensuring firmness without dropping off.
Figure 5: Battery Fixing Screw Detail

4.2 Antenna Attachment

  1. Screw the antenna clockwise into the connector on the top of the radio until it is finger-tight. Do not overtighten.
High Gain Antenna (20cm upgraded length) with pure copper coil, designed for longer and more stable communication.
Figure 6: High Gain Antenna

4.3 Charging the Battery

The UV-16 supports USB Type-C charging, offering versatile charging options.

  1. Connect the Type-C cable to the radio's Type-C jack.
  2. Connect the other end of the cable to a compatible USB power source (e.g., wall adapter, power bank, computer USB port, car charger).
  3. The LED indicator will show charging status.
Baofeng UV-16 radio being charged via Type-C cable, showing compatibility with Adaptor, Power Bank, and USB.
Figure 7: Type-C Charging Options

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Power On/Off and Volume Control

  • To power on, rotate the Knob clockwise until you hear a click.
  • To power off, rotate the Knob counter-clockwise until you hear a click.
  • Adjust the volume by rotating the Knob after powering on.

5.2 Channel/Frequency Selection

  • Use the Up/Down arrow keys on the keypad to change channels or frequencies.
  • Press the V/M button to switch between Frequency Mode and Channel Mode.
  • The radio supports A/B band independent operation (UV UU VV) for dual band functionality.

5.3 Transmitting and Receiving

  • To transmit, press and hold the PTT button on the side of the radio. Speak clearly into the microphone.
  • Release the PTT button to receive.
  • The LED indicator will show red during transmission and green during reception.

5.4 FM Radio Function

  • Press the FM button to activate the FM radio.
  • Use the keypad or arrow keys to tune to your desired FM frequency (65-108MHz reception).
  • Press FM again to exit FM radio mode.
Baofeng UV-16 radio displaying FM frequency 105.900, illustrating its built-in FM radio function and LED torch.
Figure 8: Intimate Functions (FM Radio & Flashlight)

5.5 Scanning Modes

The UV-16 offers three scanning modes:

  • Channel Scanning: Scans through your preset channel list.
  • Frequency Range Scanning: Scans within a user-defined frequency range (e.g., 1MHz apart).
  • CTCSS/DCS Tone Scanning: Scans for CTCSS/DCS tones on the current frequency.

Refer to the full user manual for detailed instructions on configuring and initiating scanning modes via the menu.

5.6 Dual Watch & Sync Function

The Dual Watch feature allows monitoring two frequencies simultaneously. The Sync function displays both channel name and frequency information for a single monitored channel, which is useful for clarity.

6. Key Features

  • IP57 Life Waterproof: Provides splash waterproof protection, making it suitable for various outdoor conditions.
    Baofeng UV-16 radio submerged in water, illustrating its waterproof capability.
    Figure 9: Waterproof Design
  • High Power Output: Available in 10W or 8W options for extended communication range.
  • USB Type-C Fast Charging: Convenient charging from various USB power sources.
  • Dual Band / Dual Display / Dual Standby: Independent operation on A/B bands (VHF/UHF).
  • 999 Groups Channel Storage: Ample memory for storing channels.
  • PC & Manual Programmable: Configure settings via computer software or directly through the keypad.
  • DTMF Coding: For advanced signaling functions.
  • Emergency Alarm: Visual (indicator) and audible (flashlight flashing) alerts.
  • VOX Function: Voice-activated transmission for hands-free operation.
  • Built-in LED Torch: Provides illumination in low-light conditions.
  • FM Radio (65-108MHz): For entertainment and information reception.
  • High Gain Antenna: 20cm upgraded length with pure copper coil for improved signal.
    A flexible antenna with '360° FREE BENDING' text, indicating its durability and adaptability.
    Figure 10: Flexible High Gain Antenna
  • Ergonomic Design: High elasticity soft silicone PTT button, slip-resistant, wear-resistant, and 30° inclined numeric buttons for comfortable and precise operation.
    Close-up of the Baofeng UV-16 radio's keypad and PTT button, highlighting the 'Extreme Feel' with 30° inclined numeric buttons.
    Figure 11: Ergonomic Keypad and PTT

7. Specifications

7.1 General Specifications

FeatureSpecification
ModelUV-16 / UV-16 Plus / UV-16 V2 Plus / UV16 Max
Frequency Stability±2.5ppm
Frequency Step2.5/5/6.25/10/12.5/20/25KHz
Antenna Impedance50ohm
Working Temperature-20°C to +50°C
Rated Voltage7.4V DC±10%
Output Power5W or 8W (Optional), 10W (UV-16 Plus)
Battery TypeLi-ion battery
Battery CapacityHigh Capacity (e.g., 5800mAh mentioned in some contexts)
Headphone Jack Type2 Pin Kenwood Plug
Antenna TypeSMA-(Male)
Mode Of OperationSimplex Or Semi-duplex
Weight450g (approximate)
Dimension (LxWxH)115*60*36mm (without antenna)
Waterproof / Water-ResistantIP57
Frequency RangeVHF (136-174Mhz) UHF (400-520Mhz), FM (65-108MHz RX)
Storage Channel128 (or 999 groups channels storage)
Maximum Range5km-10km
CertificationCE, Dot, EAC, EPA, FCC, GMP, RoHS, TGA, UL, KC, pse, weee

7.2 Transmitter Specifications

FeatureSpecification
Type Of Modulation16køF3E / 11køF3E
Max Frequency Deviation< 5kHz (Wide) / < 2.5kHz (Narrow)
Emission Current<= 1.5A (5W)
CTCSS / DCS0.7±0.1kHz (Wide) / 0.4±0.1kHz (Narrow)

7.3 Reception Specifications

FeatureSpecification
Sensitivity-122dBm (12dB SINAD)
Audio Power1W
Intermediation Distortion<10%
Inter Modulation>=65Db / >=60dB
Spurious Response65dB
Adjacent Channel Selectivity (Wide/Narrow)<-65dB (Wide) / <-60dB (Narrow)
Receiving Current<=380mA

8. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your UV-16 radio.

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Radio does not power on.Low or dead battery; improperly installed battery.Charge the battery fully. Ensure battery is correctly installed and secured.
Cannot transmit or receive.Incorrect frequency/channel; antenna not attached; low battery; squelch level too high.Verify frequency/channel settings. Ensure antenna is securely attached. Charge battery. Adjust squelch level (SQL) in the menu.
Poor audio quality.Weak signal; incorrect CTCSS/DCS settings; microphone/speaker obstruction.Move to an area with better signal. Check CTCSS/DCS tones. Ensure microphone and speaker are clear.
Keypad is unresponsive.Keypad lock is active.Deactivate keypad lock (refer to manual for specific key combination).

9. User Tips

  • For optimal range, ensure your antenna is fully extended and positioned vertically.
  • Regularly check battery level, especially before extended use.
  • Utilize the Type-C charging flexibility by carrying a power bank for on-the-go charging.
  • Experiment with different squelch levels to find the best balance between noise reduction and signal reception in your environment.
  • Consider using PC software for advanced programming and channel management, as it can be more efficient for complex setups.

10. Warranty and Support

Your Baofeng UV-16 series walkie talkie is designed for durability and performance. For any issues not covered in this manual, please refer to the official Baofeng support resources or contact your retailer for assistance. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.

The product is certified with CE, Dot, EAC, EPA, FCC, GMP, RoHS, TGA, UL, KC, pse, weee, ensuring compliance with various international standards.

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