Retekess TT119 FM Broadcast Transmitter User Manual

1. Introduction to the TT119 FM Broadcast Transmitter

The Retekess TT119 is an FM broadcast transmitter designed for simultaneous interpretation, conference meetings, factory tours, museum guides, and training systems. It operates on an external 12V power supply and supports multiple audio input interfaces, including XLR, passive MIC, electret MIC, and AUX audio. The device can transmit mixed audio signals (original sound, background music, translated voice) over long distances via its antenna.

The host features multi-channel audio input and output, with volume control for both main output and headphone monitoring. It also includes functions for music playback from a USB disk, recording, channel adjustment, and mute capabilities.

2. Setup Instructions

2.1 Product Configuration

The TT119 package typically includes:

• Host: 1 piece
• Power adapter: 1 piece
• Microphone: 1 piece
• User's Manual: 1 piece

2.2 Preparation Work

1. Ensure you have the TT119 host, a standard antenna, a standard power supply, and a microphone with a 3.5mm interface.
2. Install the Antenna: Attach the antenna to the ANT interface on the rear panel of the host. Note that the host configuration uses a reverse thread antenna, so it needs to be installed counterclockwise. Important: Always connect the external antenna when the host is working. Operating without an antenna can cause mismatching of the power amplifier circuit and potentially damage the host.
3. Connect Power: Plug the power supply into a 100~240V AC power socket, and connect the power output end to the 12V DC interface on the rear panel of the host.
4. Connect Audio Signals: Connect the required audio interface (e.g., XLR, AUX, RCA, U disk, MIC) to the corresponding input on the rear panel.
5. Power On: Press the power switch on the rear panel of the host from OFF to ON. The display will illuminate, showing the current channel, frequency, volume, power, playback, recording, mute, and other related statuses.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Front Panel Overview

Key Controls:

• MAIN VOLUME knob: Synchronously adjusts the volume of external XLR and AUX audio, and the MIC interface.
• HEADPHONE monitoring volume knob: Adjusts the volume for the front panel headphone jack.
• MIC interface: Microphone input.
• Microphone mute button (MIC button): Toggles microphone mute.
• Channel keys (K/CH+, CH-/): Adjusts the transmission channel.
• SET key: Enters/confirms menu settings.
• Play/pause/lock screen key (►II/a): Controls USB music playback and screen lock.
• Toggle key (EXT/INT): Switches between external (EXT) and internal (INT) audio input for the receiver.
• Indicator light: Indicates EXT (external audio) or INT (internal audio) status.

3.2 Basic Operations

1. Switching On/Off: Use the power switch on the rear panel.
2. Unlock/Lock Screen: Press and hold the Play/pause/lock screen key (►II/a) for 3 seconds. The screen automatically locks after 2 minutes of inactivity.
3. Adjust Channels: In the unlocked state, press the K/CH+ or CH-/ keys to cycle through channels CH01 to CH17.
4. Adjust Volume: Rotate the MAIN VOLUME knob for main output volume. Rotate the HEADPHONE knob for headphone monitoring volume.
5. Play/Pause Music: Insert a FAT32 formatted USB disk (max 32GB) with music files (MP3/WAV) in a folder named "MUSIC". The device will automatically play music. Short press the Play/pause/lock screen key (►II/a) to play/pause.
6. One-Click Mute: Press the MIC button to mute/unmute the front panel microphone.

3.3 Usage Scenarios

The TT119 facilitates wireless long-distance audio transmission for various applications. Adjust the volume knob to prevent distortion from overly strong external audio signals.

3.3.1 Lecture Mode

The speaker inputs sound via AUX or XLR. Set the MONITOR button to EXT state so receivers can hear the speaker's voice. A microphone connected to the front panel MIC port (if not muted) will also transmit the speaker's voice to receivers.

3.3.2 Simultaneous Translation Mode

The speaker's voice is input via AUX or XLR. The translator listens through the front panel monitoring interface and inputs the translated voice via the front panel MIC interface. Switch the MONITOR button to INT state (AUX, XLR interrupt mode) so listeners only hear the translator's voice. To allow listeners to hear the speaker directly, switch MONITOR to EXT and mute the MIC port.

4. Menu Functions and Settings

To access the menu, press and hold the "SET" key for 3 seconds from the main interface (unlocked state). Use the K/CH+ or CH-/ keys to navigate menu items and the SET key to confirm.

4.1 PA (Set Background Music Volume)

This setting controls the background music volume from 0 (mute) to 10 (maximum). Enter the PA menu, rotate the HEADPHONES knob to adjust the volume. Select "RETURN" to go back to the menu or "EXIT" to return to the main interface.

4.2 RECORD (Set Recording Start and End)

The recording function captures the currently transmitted audio signal.

1. From the menu, select "RECORD".
2. Rotate the HEADPHONES knob to switch between "START" and "END".
3. Select "START" and short press SET to begin recording. A recording icon will appear on the display.
4. To stop recording, re-enter the RECORD menu, set the status to "END", and short press SET. The saved file name (e.g., R001.MP3) will be displayed.

Note: Ensure a FAT32 formatted USB flash drive is inserted before recording. Recording files are stored in the "RECRO" directory. Music playback from USB will pause during recording and resume after recording stops. Always stop recording via the menu before unplugging the USB drive to prevent data corruption.

4.3 POWER SETTING (Set Transmit Power)

The host supports two power levels: L (low) for short distances and H (high) for long-distance transmission. Enter the POWER SETTING menu and rotate the HEADPHONES knob to select L or H.

4.4 STEREO SET (Set Stereo Output)

The factory default is mono output. To change to stereo, enter the STEREO SET menu and rotate the HEADPHONES knob to select "STEREO".

4.5 EXIT (Exit Menu)

Select "EXIT" from the menu and short press SET to return to the main interface. Alternatively, press and hold SET for 3 seconds to exit the menu directly.

5. Maintenance

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your Retekess TT119, follow these general maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the transmitter. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures when not in use.
• Cable Care: Regularly check all cables for signs of wear or damage. Replace any damaged cables immediately.
• Antenna: Ensure the antenna is securely attached and not bent or damaged.

6. Troubleshooting

Unable to boot and no display:

Check if the power supply is properly plugged in, if the power supply is damaged, if the voltage matches, and if the power switch is turned ON.

The transmitting distance is short:

Verify that the power gear is set to H (high). Ensure the antenna is connected and matches the device. Check if the receiving frequency is correct.

Buttons cannot be operated:

Check if the host is in a locked screen state. Unlock the screen by pressing and holding the Play/pause/lock screen key (►II/a) for 3 seconds.

Microphone is silent:

Check if the microphone is damaged or incompatible. Replace the microphone if necessary. Ensure the host is not in mute state and the volume is not set to 0. Verify the receiving channel and check if the receiver is functioning normally.

Audio is silent:

Check if the audio cable is damaged or if there is no external audio input. Verify the audio source. Ensure the host is not in mute state. Check the receiving channel and the receiver function.

Sound from the XLR interface is abnormal:

Check if the three-position switch is in the normal position and if the external device and switch position match.

Loud audio noise:

Reduce the volume of the external audio device and change the external audio source.

U disk cannot play and record:

Ensure the U disk is FAT32 formatted. Music files must be in the "MUSIC" folder in the root directory. Supported formats are MP3/WAV. Check if the host is in mute state. Try changing the U disk and testing again.

Front panel headphone interface is silent:

Check if the external headphones are damaged. Turn up the volume. Ensure the host has AUX/XLR audio input and the front panel headphone interface is not muted.

7. Specifications

8. User Tips

• Always ensure good contact with the antenna to avoid short voice transmission distance.
• For optimal visibility, try to keep the operation panel facing you during use.
• When using a USB disk for music or recording, ensure it is formatted to FAT32 and that music files are placed in a folder named "MUSIC" in the root directory.
• To prevent data loss, always stop recording via the menu before removing the USB disk.
• If experiencing audio issues, systematically check all connections, volume levels, mute settings, and channel selections on both the transmitter and receiver.

9. Safety and Compliance Information

9.1 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.

9.2 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.

9.3 FCC Compliance

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference. (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

9.4 IC (Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada)

This device contains licence-exempt transmitter(s)/receiver(s) that comply with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada's licence-exempt RSS(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause interference. (2) This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

This radio transmitter has been approved by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada to operate with the antenna types listed below, with the maximum permissible gain indicated. Antenna types not included in this list that have a gain greater than the maximum gain indicated for any type listed are strictly prohibited for use with this device.

9.5 CE Compliance

HENAN ESHOW ELECTRONIC COMMERCE 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 the following internet address: www.retekess.com.

9.6 Disposal

The crossed-out wheeled-bin symbol on your product, literature, or packaging reminds you that all electrical and electronic products, batteries, or accumulators must be taken to designated collection locations at the end of their working life. Do not dispose of these products as unsorted municipal waste. Dispose of them according to the laws and rules in your area.

9.7 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/.

Keeping the radio at a proper distance is important as RF exposure decreases with increasing distance from the proper antenna. A proper antenna is an antenna supplied with this radio by the manufacturer or specifically authorized by the local authority for use with this radio. This radio can only be operated by use of an antenna of a type and maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter under regulations and rules. This transmitter must operate with the antenna(s) documented and in Push-to-Talk and body-worn configurations as documented. Using authorized accessories is important because the use of Non-Retevis accessories may result in exposure levels, which exceed the IEEE/ICNIRP RF exposure limits.

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 “General population/uncontrolled use”. General population/un-controlled environments are defined as locations where there is exposure of individuals who have no knowledge or control of RF exposure level.

9.8 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.

9.9 Protect Your Hearing

Exposure to loud noises from any source for extended periods of time may temporarily or permanently affect your hearing. The louder the radio's volume, the less time is required before your hearing could be affected. Hearing damage from loud noise is sometimes undetectable at first and can have a cumulative effect.

• 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.

9.10 Batteries Safety

• Pull by the plug rather than the cord when disconnecting the charger.
• Unplug the charger from the AC outlet before attempting any maintenance or cleaning.
• Do not use the charger outdoors or in moist environments, use only in dry locations/conditions.
• Do not disassemble the charger, which may result in a risk of electrical shock or fire. A charger should be dismantled only by trained people.
• Do not operate the charger if it has been broken or damaged in any way.
• An extension cord should not be used unless absolutely necessary. Use of an improper extension cord could result in a risk of a fire and/or electric shock. If an extension cord must be used, make sure that:
• The pins on the plug of the extension cord are the same number, size and shape as those on the plug of the charger.
• The extension cord is properly wired and in good condition.
• Make sure the cord is located so it will not be stepped on, tripped over or subjected to damage or stress.

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

9.11 Adapter

The plug of the adapter is considered a disconnect device. The socket-outlet shall be installed near the equipment and shall be easily accessible.

10. Warranty and Support

10.1 Guarantee

This guarantee card should be kept by the user; no replacement if lost. Most new products carry a two-year manufacturer's warranty from the date of purchase.

For warranty and after-sales service, contact the seller where you purchased the product or a local repair center. You will need to provide a receipt or proof of purchase for verification.

Exclusions from Warranty Coverage:

• Any product damaged by accident.
• 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.

10.2 Authorized Accessories List

Contact Retekess for assistance regarding repairs and service. For a list of Retekess-approved accessories for your radio model, visit the website www.retekess.com.