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.

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)

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

- 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.

4. Setup
4.1 Battery Installation
- Align the battery pack with the grooves on the back of the radio.
- Slide the battery pack upwards until it clicks into place.
- Ensure the fixing screw is tightened to secure the battery firmly.

4.2 Antenna Attachment
- Screw the antenna clockwise into the connector on the top of the radio until it is finger-tight. Do not overtighten.

4.3 Charging the Battery
The UV-16 supports USB Type-C charging, offering versatile charging options.
- Connect the Type-C cable to the radio's Type-C jack.
- Connect the other end of the cable to a compatible USB power source (e.g., wall adapter, power bank, computer USB port, car charger).
- The LED indicator will show charging status.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Figure 11: Ergonomic Keypad and PTT
7. Specifications
7.1 General Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | UV-16 / UV-16 Plus / UV-16 V2 Plus / UV16 Max |
| Frequency Stability | ±2.5ppm |
| Frequency Step | 2.5/5/6.25/10/12.5/20/25KHz |
| Antenna Impedance | 50ohm |
| Working Temperature | -20°C to +50°C |
| Rated Voltage | 7.4V DC±10% |
| Output Power | 5W or 8W (Optional), 10W (UV-16 Plus) |
| Battery Type | Li-ion battery |
| Battery Capacity | High Capacity (e.g., 5800mAh mentioned in some contexts) |
| Headphone Jack Type | 2 Pin Kenwood Plug |
| Antenna Type | SMA-(Male) |
| Mode Of Operation | Simplex Or Semi-duplex |
| Weight | 450g (approximate) |
| Dimension (LxWxH) | 115*60*36mm (without antenna) |
| Waterproof / Water-Resistant | IP57 |
| Frequency Range | VHF (136-174Mhz) UHF (400-520Mhz), FM (65-108MHz RX) |
| Storage Channel | 128 (or 999 groups channels storage) |
| Maximum Range | 5km-10km |
| Certification | CE, Dot, EAC, EPA, FCC, GMP, RoHS, TGA, UL, KC, pse, weee |
7.2 Transmitter Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type Of Modulation | 16køF3E / 11køF3E |
| Max Frequency Deviation | < 5kHz (Wide) / < 2.5kHz (Narrow) |
| Emission Current | <= 1.5A (5W) |
| CTCSS / DCS | 0.7±0.1kHz (Wide) / 0.4±0.1kHz (Narrow) |
7.3 Reception Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity | -122dBm (12dB SINAD) |
| Audio Power | 1W |
| Intermediation Distortion | <10% |
| Inter Modulation | >=65Db / >=60dB |
| Spurious Response | 65dB |
| 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.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| 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.





