1. Introduction
The Retevis RB646 (PMR446) and RB46 (FRS) are license-free, IP67 waterproof two-way radios designed for reliable communication in various environments, including construction sites, hotels, restaurants, malls, and outdoor activities like adventure, fishing, camping, and kayaking. These radios feature a dual-color PTT button, wireless copy function, and an emergency alarm for enhanced safety and ease of use.
Key features of the Retevis RB646/RB46 Walkie Talkie.
Product overview video showcasing the walkie talkie's features.
2. Package Contents
Please check the package contents carefully upon receipt. The items included may vary based on the purchased option (1PC or 2PCS).
2.1. 1PC Package Includes:
- 1 x RB646 / RB46 Two Way Radio
- 1 x Li-ion Battery Pack
- 1 x Charger
- 1 x USB Cable
- 1 x Belt Clip
- 1 x User Manual
- 1 x Hand Strap
- 1 x Program Port Cover
Items included in the 1PC package.
2.2. 2PCS Package Includes:
- 2 x RB646 / RB46 Two Way Radio
- 2 x Li-ion Battery Pack
- 2 x Charger
- 2 x USB Charging Cable
- 2 x Belt Clip
- 2 x User Manual
- 2 x Hand Strap
- 2 x Adaptors (optional)
- 1 x Programming Cable (optional)
- 2 x IP66 Waterproof Air Tube Earpiece (optional)
- 2 x IP67 Waterproof Speaker Microphone (optional)
Items included in the 2PCS package.
3. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the various parts of your Retevis RB646/RB46 walkie talkie:
Structure Description of the Walkie Talkie.
- Antenna
- Channel selector knob
- Power switch/Volume knob
- LED indicator
- Microphone
- PTT (Push-To-Talk) button
- PF1 (Programmable Function 1) button: MONI/Battery indicator/VOX
- PF2 (Programmable Function 2) button: Scan/Alert
- Accessory port
- Battery pack
- Battery latch
- Speaker
4. Setup
4.1. Charging the Battery
Before initial use, fully charge the Li-ion battery pack. Use the provided USB desktop charger and USB cable.
- Connect the USB cable to the charger and a power source.
- Place the walkie talkie into the charging cradle.
- The LED indicator on the charger will show the charging status (typically red for charging, green for fully charged).
USB Desktop Charging and Battery.
4.2. Attaching the Belt Clip
Secure the belt clip to the back of the walkie talkie for convenient carrying.
- Align the belt clip with the screw holes on the back of the radio.
- Use the provided screws to firmly attach the clip.
- The sturdy back clip with aluminum alloy locking design ensures secure attachment.
Sturdy Belt Clip and Anti-slip Design.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Power On/Off and Volume Control
- To power on/off, rotate the Power switch/Volume knob (3) clockwise or counter-clockwise.
- To adjust the volume, rotate the same knob.
5.2. Channel Selection
Rotate the Channel selector knob (2) to choose one of the 16 available channels.
5.3. Transmitting and Receiving (PTT)
- To transmit, press and hold the PTT button (6) and speak into the microphone (5).
- Release the PTT button to receive.
- The dual-color PTT button provides clear indication during use.
Using the Dual-color PTT Button.
5.4. VOX Function (Voice Operated Exchange)
The VOX function allows for hands-free communication. When activated, the radio will transmit automatically when it detects your voice.
- Activate VOX via the PF1 button (7) or programming software.
- Speak into the microphone to transmit without pressing PTT.
- This is particularly useful in situations where your hands are occupied.
Demonstration of VOX Function in use.
5.5. Scan Function
The scan function allows the radio to automatically search for active channels.
- Activate scan using the PF2 button (8) or programming software.
- The radio will stop on an active channel and resume scanning after a set time or when the signal disappears.
5.6. Monitor Function
The monitor function allows you to listen to weak signals on the current channel by temporarily disabling the squelch.
- Activate monitor using the PF1 button (7) or programming software.
5.7. Squelch
Squelch suppresses background noise when no signal is being received. The squelch level can be adjusted via programming.
5.8. Emergency Alarm
In case of an emergency, the radio can activate an alarm to alert others.
- Activate the emergency alarm using the PF2 button (8) or programming software.
- The radio will emit a loud alarm sound (local alarm) and/or transmit an alarm signal (remote alarm) to other radios.
Emergency Alarm activation.
5.9. Wireless Copy Function
This feature allows you to quickly copy frequency and sub-code settings from one RB646/RB46 radio to another of the same model without a computer.
- Receiver Setup: On the receiving radio, set to channel 2. Press and hold the PF2 button (8) and power on simultaneously. The green LED light will flash.
- Transmitter Setup: On the transmitting radio, set to channel 1. Press and hold the PF2 button (8) and power on simultaneously. The red LED light will flash.
- Copy Process: Press the PTT button (6) on the transmitting radio. The red light on the transmitter will flash, indicating data transmission. The green light on the receiver will flash, indicating data reception.
Wireless Copy Function diagram and instructions.
6. Maintenance
6.1. General Care
- Clean the radio's surface with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Ensure the accessory port cover is securely closed when not in use to maintain IP67 waterproof rating.
- Avoid exposing the radio to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
The RB646/RB46 features IP67 Waterproof performance.
6.2. Battery Care
- Charge the battery fully before first use.
- Do not overcharge or deep discharge the battery.
- If the radio will not be used for an extended period, remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Battery depleted or not properly installed. | Charge the battery. Ensure battery is securely latched. |
| Cannot transmit or receive | Incorrect channel, out of range, or low battery. | Verify channel. Move closer to other radios. Charge battery. |
| Poor audio quality | Volume too low/high, antenna loose, or interference. | Adjust volume. Check antenna connection. Move away from sources of interference. |
| Wireless copy fails | Incorrect procedure or radios are not the same model. | Follow wireless copy instructions precisely. Ensure both radios are RB646/RB46. |
8. Specifications
8.1. General Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | FRS: 462.5625~467.7250MHz PMR446: 446.00625~446.19375MHz |
| Channels | 16 CH |
| Working Voltage | 3.7V |
| Working Time (5:5:90) | FRS: 15 H / PMR446: 23 H |
| Working Temperature | -10℃~55℃ |
| Battery Pack | 1150mAh Li-ion Battery |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 92×55×32mm (Not include antenna) |
| Waterproof / Water-Resistant | IP67 |
| Maximum Range | 1.5km-3km (PMR: 1.5km, FRS: 2.4km) |
Main Technical Parameters (General, Transmitter, Receiver).
8.2. Transmitter Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| RF Power | FRS: 2W / PMR: 0.5W |
| Frequency Stability | +/-2.5ppm |
| Frequency Tolerance | 2ppm |
| Spurious Emission | -36dBm |
| Modulation Distortion | 5% |
| Tx Hum & Noise | 40dB +0/-5 |
8.3. Receiver Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Audio Output Power | 500mW -100/+0 |
| Audio Frequency Response | 6dB +/-3 |
| Squelch Opening SINAD | 8dB -0/+7 |
| Spurious Response Rejection | 65dB -5/+0 |
| Conducted Spurious Emission | -57dB |
| Rx Hum & Noise | 40dB +0/-5 |
Main Technical Parameters (Transmitter, Receiver continued).
9. User Tips
- Portable Charging: The walkie talkie features a convenient USB charging port. This allows for flexible charging options, including using a power bank when a wall socket is not available, making it ideal for field use.
- Clear Communication: The 1W speaker provides loud and clear audio, which is particularly beneficial in noisy environments like construction sites.
- Hands-Free Operation: Utilize the VOX function for hands-free communication, especially when your hands are occupied, such as when operating machinery or driving.
10. Warranty and Support
RETEVIS products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official RETEVIS website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
