RETEVIS RT86A Walkie Talkie User Manual

1. Introduction

Dear Users,

Welcome to purchase the radio produced by our company. We believe that this radio will bring great convenience to your life and work. Adopting advanced technology, we hope that the quality and functionality of this product will satisfy you. It will provide you with convenient, efficient, and reliable two-way voice communication.

User Instructions:

• Please read this manual carefully before using the device.
• Do not use the radio or charge its battery in environments that are combustible, explosive, or where the use of radio is prohibited (such as gas stations, coal gas stations, airports, etc.).
• Do not operate the radio without permission in government-regulated areas where transmission is prohibited by law.
• Avoid exposing the radio to direct sunlight for extended periods or placing it near heating devices.
• Do not place the radio in dusty, damp, or splash-prone areas, or on unstable surfaces.
• If you detect any unusual odor or smoke emanating from the radio, immediately remove the battery pack and promptly contact our company or a local dealer.
• Maintenance of the radio should only be performed by professional technicians. Do not attempt to dismantle or repair it yourself.

2. Package Contents

Please open the package box before use and carefully inspect the main unit as well as the accessories listed in the following table. Should any item be missing or damaged during handling, kindly contact the delivery person or the dealer immediately.

3. Product Overview

The Retevis RT86A walkie talkie is designed for ease of use and durability. Below are the key components and their functions.

Key Indicators:

• Antenna: For transmitting and receiving signals.
• Channel Knob: Rotate to select desired communication channel.
• Power/Volume Knob: Rotate clockwise to power on and increase volume; counter-clockwise to decrease volume and power off.
• Indicator: LED light indicating radio status (e.g., red for transmitting, green for receiving, flashing red for low battery).
• Speaker: For audio output.
• Microphone: For voice input.
• PTT Button (Push-to-Talk): Press and hold to transmit your voice.
• PF1 Key (Programmable Function Key 1): Customizable for various functions like Monitor, Scan, Alarm, Power Level Switching, Group Call, or Region Switching.
• PF2 Key (Programmable Function Key 2): Customizable for various functions like Monitor, Scan, Alarm, Power Level Switching, Group Call, or Region Switching. Also used for Easy Pairing.
• SP/MIC Jack: Port for connecting external speaker/microphone accessories.

4. Preparations & Battery Information

Battery Safety:

• Do not overcharge the battery pack. If the battery pack has not been fully charged within the specified time (approximately 6.5 hours), please stop charging. Overcharging may cause the battery pack to overheat, emit smoke, explode, or catch fire suddenly.
• Do not place the battery pack in a microwave or high-pressure container. The battery pack may overheat, emit smoke, explode, or catch fire suddenly.
• Keep broken and leaking battery packs away from fire. If the battery pack leaks or emits a pungent odor, immediately remove it from flammable areas. Leaking electrolyte from the battery pack can easily ignite, potentially causing the battery pack to smoke or catch fire suddenly.
• Do not use abnormal battery packs. If the battery pack emits a pungent odor, appears discolored, is deformed, or behaves abnormally for any reason, remove the battery pack from the charger or operating device and do not use it.
• Always turn off your radio before removing or installing a battery. Store spare batteries securely. Dispose of used batteries immediately and safely.
• The battery supply terminals are not to be short-circuited.
• Do not replace the battery in any area labeled "Hazardous Atmosphere". Any sparks created in a potentially explosive atmosphere can cause explosion or fire.
• When conductive material such as jewelry, keys or chains touches exposed terminals of the batteries, may complete an electrical circuit (short circuit the battery) and become hot to cause bodily injury such as burns. Exercise care in handling any battery, particularly when placing it inside a pocket, purse or other container with metal objects.
• Dirty battery contacts need to be wiped with clean dry cloth, both on the battery and in the appliance.
• Batteries should be removed from the appliance when not being used for long periods of time (months). The batteries should be enclosed in special protective packaging (such as sealed plastic bags or variants) which should be retained to protect them from condensation during the time they are warming to ambient temperature.
• Exhausted batteries are to be removed from the equipment.
• Do not dismantle, open or shred batteries. Batteries should be dismantled only by trained people.
• Batteries shall be charged at 10°C~40°C environment temperature specified. If the environment temperature is lower than 0°C, the charge shall be prohibited.
• Rechargeable batteries are only to be charged by adults or by children at least 8 years old under adult supervision.

Charging Instructions:

The RT86A is equipped with a 2500mAh Li-ion battery, providing extended operational time.

Charging Mode:

1. After turning off the radio, insert it into the charging slot of the charger.
2. The charger will illuminate a red light, indicating the start of charging.
3. When the battery is fully charged, the light will turn green.

Use the dedicated charger. The charger is specifically designed for this model of the radio, providing more scientific, rational safe, and reliable charging for the radio's battery.

5. Basic Operations

Power On / Off:

To turn on the power, rotate the volume control knob clockwise until a click sound is heard. To turn off the power, rotate the volume control knob counter-clockwise until a click sound is heard.

Volume Up/Down:

Increase the volume by rotating the volume control knob clockwise. Decrease the volume by rotating the volume control knob counter-clockwise.

Channel Selection:

To switch to the next channel, rotate the channel selector knob clockwise. To switch to the previous channel, rotate the channel selector knob counter-clockwise.

Talking (PTT):

Press and hold the PTT button, the red indicator light will illuminate, and you can speak into the microphone. The other party will hear your voice. Release the PTT button after speaking to receive the other party's message. The green indicator light will illuminate simultaneously when receiving.

Monitor Function On/Off:

Briefly or long press the PF1/PF2 key assigned for monitoring to activate. This allows listening to the selected channel for transmissions. Silence is indicated by a "shushing" sound. Repeat the action to deactivate.

VOX On/Off (Hands-free Communication):

Press the side button 1 + PTT button to turn on the device, and VOX will be quickly activated with a "beep" sound; repeat the operation and you will hear two “beep” sounds to turn off VOX.

Channel Lock On/Off:

Briefly or long press the PF1/PF2 key designated for channel lock. A single beep indicates activation, locking the channel. Repeat for deactivation, confirmed by two beeps.

Scan Function On/Off:

Briefly or long press the PF1/PF2 key programmed for scanning. A single beep initiates scanning, indicated by a flashing green light. The radio exits scanning upon receiving a signal. Repeat to deactivate, confirmed by two beeps.

Alarm Function On/Off:

Briefly or long press the PF1/PF2 key assigned for alarms to activate. Choose between local (device only) and remote (both transmitter and receiver) alarms via programming. Press PTT to cancel.

Transmit TOT (Time-Out Timer):

TOT prevents extended transmissions on a single channel, safeguarding against radio damage due to continuous transmission. Upon exceeding the preset TOT limit, the radio stops transmitting and emits an alert tone. Release the PTT switch to silence the tone and resume receive mode.

Power Level Switching Activation:

Briefly press or hold down the PF1/PF2 button configured for power level switching to activate the function. A single "beep" indicates switching to low power, two "beeps” indicate switching to medium power, and three "beeps" indicate switching to high power.

Scrambler:

Program inside software to enable the scrambler function, which is equivalent to voice encryption. The radios participating in this function need to be enabled at the same time to hear the content clearly.

Microphone Gain Adjustment:

The microphone gain can be adjusted via software to enhance or reduce the sensitivity of the radio's microphone. A higher value results in greater sensitivity.

One-key Frequency Pairing:

This feature allows frequency matching between radios with different frequencies without the need for a PC. One channel can be matched at a time. It is compatible with RT86A and other radios without anti-cloning features.

Procedure:

1. Enter One-key decoding mode (Receiver): With the radio turned off, press and hold the PTT button while powering on. After 3 seconds, a "beep-beep-beep" sound will be heard accompanied by alternating red and green light flashes, announcing the current channel. Release the PTT button to proceed.
2. Transmitter setup: Power on the transmitter and rotate the channel switch to the target channel (covering the desired frequency). Press and hold the PTT button to activate this function. Transmit to the test receiver. When the test receiver's red light turns green, it indicates successful transmission frequency testing and saving. The green light will remain for a period before a single "beep” confirms successful saving. After completion, the transmitter and receiver can communicate seamlessly.

Easy Pairing (RT86A with identical RT86A models):

When frequencies or CTCSS/DCS differ, all channel frequencies and CTCSS/DCS can be copied, enabling seamless communication without the need for PC programming. The transmitter's side key functions will not be copied by default; however, side key functions can also be optionally copied via software setting.

Procedure:

1. To enter the wireless pairing receive mode (receiver): Switch to channel 1 (power on or power off both ok), turn off the radio, press and hold side key 1 while turning on the radio. Continue holding for approximately 1 second. When the green light begins to flash and three "beeps” are heard, the receiver is in the receive mode.
2. To enter the wireless pairing transmit mode (transmitter): Switch to channel 2 (power on or power off both ok), turn off the radio, press and hold side key 1 while turning on the radio. Continue holding for approximately 1 second. When the red light begins to flash and three "beeps” are heard, the transmitter is in the transmit mode.
3. Press the transmitter's PTT button once. The red light will flash, indicating data transmission.
4. The receiver's red and green lights will alternate, indicating data reception. Once the receiver has completed receiving the data, it will automatically restart.
5. The receiver's automatic restart signifies completion of the pairing process. Manually turn off the transmitter and then turn it on again to exit the wireless pairing transmit mode. The wireless pairing is now complete, allowing communication on the same channel.

Group Call Function:

Retevis RT86A communication radio can initiate the group call to communicate with various channels; enhance communication efficiency; and help the work run fast. Retevis RT86A walkie talkie is equipped with the group call function; allowing you to call team members quickly without complex settings.

Region Switching:

To switch regions, briefly press or hold PF1 or PF2, which are pre-set for region switching. Upon hearing a single "beep”, it indicates switching to Region 1. Repeat the same action, and upon hearing two consecutive "beeps", it signifies switching to Region 2 (Note: Region 2 does not have factory-set frequencies and requires software programming with approved and authorized frequency points).

Cancel CTCSS/DCS:

Retevis RT86A communication radio can turn off CTCSS/DCS through the PTT key and side key 2; increases the compatibility of communication; reducing the communication obstructions at work.

6. Specifications

The frequency range may vary depending on the type of device you access because a radio designated for business use must comply with local rules in EU member states. If the type is subject to restrictions on putting into service or to requirements for authorization of use in a member of the European Union, your dealer or system administrator may set the operating frequency, and you cannot change the frequency. Check with your dealer or system administrator for more information.

Physical Dimensions: 292*59*40mm (11.5 x 2.3 x 1.6 inches)

Net Weight (with antenna and battery): 296g

Material: ABS

Waterproof / Water-Resistant: No

Battery Included: Yes

7. Frequency Tables (CTCSS/DCS)

CTCSS Chart (Hz):

DCS Code List:

8. User Tips

• Check Package Contents: Always verify all items listed in the 'Package Includes' section are present upon receiving your walkie talkie. If anything is missing or damaged, contact your dealer immediately.
• Model Compatibility: The RT86A is compatible with identical RT86A models for easy pairing. When pairing with other RT86 models, ensure to follow the one-key frequency pairing instructions carefully, especially regarding CTCSS/DCS settings.
• Charging Best Practices: To prolong battery life and ensure safety, avoid overcharging. Always use the dedicated charger provided. If the battery is not fully charged within 6.5 hours, disconnect it.
• Optimal Communication: For best long-range communication, ensure the antenna is securely installed. Environmental factors like terrain and buildings can affect range, so adjust power levels (high, medium, low) as needed.
• Hands-free Operation: Utilize the VOX function for hands-free communication, especially in situations where you need to keep your hands free for other tasks.

9. RF Energy Exposure and Product Safety Guide

Before using this device, please read this guide which contains important operating instructions for safe usage, control information and operational instructions for compliance with RF Energy Exposure limits in applicable national and international standards. User' instructions should accompany the device when transferred to other users.

Unauthorized Modification and Adjustment:

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance may void the user's authority granted by the local government radio management departments to operate this radio and should not be made. To comply with the corresponding requirements, transmitter adjustments should be made only by or under the supervision of a person certified as technically qualified to perform transmitter maintenance and repairs in the private land mobile and fixed services as certified by an organization representative of the user of those services. Replacement of any transmitter component (crystal, semiconductor, etc.) not authorized by the local government radio management departments equipment authorization for this radio could violate the rules.

CE Compliance:

Shenzhen Retevis Technology Co., Ltd. declares that the radio equipment type is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of RED Directive 2014/53/EU and the ROHS Directive 2011/65/EU and the WEEE Directive 2012/19/EU; the full text of the EU declaration of conformity is available at www.retevis.com.

RF Safety:

This two-way radio uses electromagnetic energy in the radio frequency (RF) spectrum to provide communications between two or more users over a distance. RF energy, which when used improperly, can cause biological damage. Please refer to the following websites for more information on what RF energy exposure is and how to control your exposure to assure compliance with established RF exposure limits: http://www.who.int/en/

• Transmit no more than the rated duty factor 50% of the time. Transmitting necessary information or less, is important because the radio generates measurable RF energy exposure only when transmitting in terms of measuring for standards compliance. For users who wish to further reduce their exposure, some effective measures to reduce RF exposure include:
• Reduce the amount of time spent using your wireless device.
• Use a speakerphone, earpiece, headset, or other hands-free accessory to reduce proximity to the head (and thus head exposure). While wired earpieces may conduct some energy to the head and wireless earpieces also emit a small amount of RF energy, both wired and wireless earpieces remove the greatest source of RF energy (handheld device) from proximity to the head and thus can greatly reduce total exposure to the head.
• Increase the distance between wireless devices and your body.

This radio is designed for and classified as "Occupational/Controlled Use Only". Occupational/Controlled environments are defined as locations where there is exposure that may be incurred by people who are aware of the potential of exposure, for example, as a result of employment or occupation. It means a radio must be used only by individuals aware of the hazards, and the ways to minimize such hazards; Not intended for use in a General population/uncontrolled environment.

Hand-held Mode:

To control your exposure and ensure compliance with the controlled environment exposure limits, always adhere to the following procedure:

• To receive calls, release the PTT button.
• To transmit (talk), press the Push-to-Talk (PTT) button in front of the face.
• Hold the radio in a vertical position with the microphone (and other parts of the radio including the antenna) at least one inch (2.5 centimeters) away from the nose or lips.

Electromagnetic Interference/Compatibility:

Nearly every electronic device is susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI) if inadequately shielded, designed, or otherwise configured for electromagnetic compatibility. During transmissions, your radio generates RF energy that can possibly cause interference with other devices or systems. To avoid such interference, turn off the radio in areas where signs are posted to do so, such as hospitals or healthcare facilities.

Persons with pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) or other active implantable medical devices should:

• Consult with their physicians regarding the potential risk of interference from radio frequency transmitters, such as portable radios (poorly shielded medical devices may be more susceptible to interference).
• Turn the radio OFF immediately if there is any reason to suspect that interference is taking place.
• Do not carry the radio in a chest pocket or near the implantation site, and carry or use the radio on the opposite side of the body from the implantable device to minimize the potential for interference.

Turn off your radio in the following conditions:

• Turn off your radio prior to entering any area with a potentially hazardous or explosive atmosphere. Only radio types that are especially qualified should be used in such areas as "Intrinsically Safe".
• Note: the areas with potentially explosive atmosphere referred to above include blasting caps, blasting areas, inflammable gas, dust particles, metallic powders, grain powders, fueling areas such as below decks on boats, fuel or chemical transfer or storage facilities, areas where the air contains chemicals or particles (such as grain, dust or metal powders) and any other area where you would normally be advised to turn off your vehicle engine. Areas with potentially explosive atmospheres are often - but not always posted.

Protect your hearing:

• Use the lowest volume necessary to do your job. Turn up the volume only if you are in noisy surroundings.
• Limit the amount of time you use headsets or earpieces at high volume.
• When using the radio without a headset or earpiece, do not place the radio's speaker directly against your ear.
• Use carefully with the earphone maybe possible excessive sound pressure from earphones and headphones can cause hearing loss.

WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD - Small Parts. Not suitable for children under 3 years old.

WARNING: KEEP NEW OR OLD USED BATTERIES OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

10. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Retevis RT86A, please refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• Radio not powering on: Ensure the battery is charged and correctly inserted. Rotate the Power/Volume knob clockwise until a click is heard.
• No sound or low volume: Adjust the Volume knob. Check if an external speaker/microphone is connected and functioning correctly.
• Cannot transmit or receive: Verify that the radio is on the correct channel. Check if the PTT button is being pressed correctly. Ensure both radios are within range and on the same frequency/CTCSS/DCS settings.
• Poor audio quality: Adjust the Microphone Gain via software if needed. Ensure the antenna is securely attached.
• Battery drains quickly: Ensure the battery is fully charged. Check for any background processes or settings that might be consuming excessive power.
• Pairing issues: Double-check the Easy Pairing or One-key Frequency Pairing steps. Ensure both radios are in the correct mode (transmit/receive) during the pairing process.

11. Support & Warranty

Warranty Information:

Most new products carry a two-year manufacturer's warranty from the date of purchase. For warranty service, you will need to provide a receipt proof of purchase from the actual seller for verification.

Exclusions from Warranty Coverage:

• To any product damaged by accident.
• In the event of misuse or abuse of the product or as a result of unauthorized alterations or repairs.
• If the serial number has been altered, defaced, or removed.

Contact & Resources:

For assistance regarding repairs and service, please contact Retevis directly.

Email: info@retevis.com

Website: http://www.retevis.com

For downloading further resources (Brochures, Software/Firmware, Manual etc.), please contact your direct reseller first OR go to retevis.com and check "support" in the each product link to download it.

A PDF version of the user manual is available: View User Manual (PDF)