RETEVIS RT98 Mobile Radio User Manual

1. Introduction

The Retevis RT98 is a compact and versatile mobile radio transceiver designed for various applications, including car use, amateur radio, and professional settings like banks, hospitals, and bus stations where secure communication is essential. It features automatic dual-way intercommunication, external speaker support, and anti-interference capabilities for clear audio.

Figure 1: Retevis RT98 Mobile Radio in a car setting.

2. Key Features

• Compact Design: Mini size (100*106*24mm) and light weight (434g) for easy installation and portability.
• Dual-Way Intercommunication: Automatic voice intercom without pressing any buttons.
• Operating Modes: Supports Amateur and Professional operation modes.
• Channel Capacity: 199 programmable memorized channels with editable names.
• Frequency Range: Available in VHF (136-174MHz) or UHF (400-470MHz) versions.
• Output Power: Adjustable power levels: High (15W), Middle (10W), Low (5W).
• Sound Quality: Features ring-shaped speakers with pure amplification and dual voice compression for clear, loud, and stereophonic sound.
• Ventilation: Perfect ventilation design for long-term operation without overheating.
• Long Distance Communication: Stronger signal distance and coverage (5-10KM reference range) to handle complex communication situations.
• APO (Auto Power-off) Mode: Smart power saving feature that automatically switches off the radio after a preset timer (30, 60, or 120 minutes).
• Scan Functions: Various scan functions including CTCSS/DCS Scan.
• Signaling: Automatic calling Identification function by CTCSS or DCS signaling (51 CTCSS codes, 1024 DCS codes).
• Bandwidth: Different bandwidth per channel (25KHz for wide, 12.5KHz for narrow).
• Frequency Step: 2.5K, 5K, 6.25K, 10K, 12.5K, 20K, 25K, 30K, 50K.
• Mic Gain: Adjustable microphone gain level (1-16).
• Squelch: Adjustable squelch level (0-9).

3. Package Contents

The standard package for the Retevis RT98 Mobile Radio includes the following items:

• 1 x RT98 Mobile Radio Unit
• 1 x Microphone with coiled cable (permanently attached)
• 1 x Power Cable (permanently attached)
• 1 x Install Bracket
• 1 x Fuse
• 2 x Non-slip mats
• 1 x Microphone Hanger
• 2 x Adjusting screws
• 4 x Screws
• 4 x Pads
• 1 x User Manual (PDF available for download)
• 1 x Programming Cable (optional, model PC55 / J9171P)

Figure 2: Typical package contents for the Retevis RT98.

4. Product Overview

4.1 Front Panel Controls

Figure 3: Front panel layout and controls.

• RX Indicator: Green light indicates receiving.
• TX Indicator: Red light indicates transmitting.
• FUN (Function Menu Key): Accesses the radio's menu settings.
• V/M (Memory Mode Switch Key): Toggles between VFO (Frequency) mode and Memory (Channel) mode.
• SCA (Scan Key): Initiates or stops scanning.
• SQL (Squelch Key): Adjusts the squelch level.
• Power On/Off & Volume Key: Turns the radio on/off and adjusts the audio volume.

4.2 Rear Panel Connectors

Figure 4: Rear panel connectors.

• ANT (Antenna Connector): SO-239 type for connecting an external antenna.
• EXT.SP (External Speaker Jack): 3.5mm jack for connecting an external speaker.
• Power Cable: Permanently attached red/black wires for 13.8V DC power input.

4.3 Microphone Controls

Figure 5: Microphone layout and controls.

• UP/DN Buttons: Used to change frequency or channel number.
• PTT (Push to Talk): Activates transmission.
• SP01 External Speaker Jack: (Note: This appears to be an error in the image, as the external speaker jack is on the main unit's rear panel. The microphone itself does not have an external speaker jack.)

5. Setup

5.1 Mounting the Radio

The RT98 is designed for mobile installation. Use the provided mounting bracket to secure the radio in a suitable location within your vehicle. Ensure the location allows for proper ventilation and access to controls.

Figure 6: Dimensions of the RT98.

5.2 Power Connection

Connect the red wire of the power cable to the positive terminal of your vehicle's 13.8V DC power source, and the black wire to the negative terminal. Ensure a secure connection to prevent power fluctuations. The radio does not have a detachable power connector.

5.3 Antenna Connection

Connect a suitable VHF (136-174MHz) or UHF (400-470MHz) antenna to the SO-239 (UHF-M) antenna connector on the rear panel of the radio. Ensure the antenna is properly tuned for the operating frequency range to prevent damage to the transceiver.

5.4 External Speaker (Optional)

If desired, connect an external speaker to the 3.5mm EXT.SP jack on the rear panel for enhanced audio output.

5.5 Programming Cable (Optional)

For advanced programming of channels and frequencies, a PC55 / J9171P programming cable can be used to connect the radio to a computer. All functions can also be accessed directly from the radio's front panel and microphone.

Figure 7: RT98 with optional programming cable.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Power On/Off and Volume Adjustment

Rotate the Power On/Off & Volume key on the front panel clockwise to turn the radio on. Continue rotating to adjust the volume level. Rotate counter-clockwise to decrease volume or turn off the radio.

6.2 Channel/Frequency Selection

Use the UP/DN buttons on the microphone to change the operating frequency or channel number. The frequency step can be selected from the menu (2.5K, 5K, 6.25K, 10K, 12.5K, 20K, 25K, 30K, 50K).

6.3 Mode Switching (VFO/Memory)

Press the V/M button on the front panel to switch between VFO (Frequency) mode and Memory (Channel) mode. Note: The VFO function is currently not available due to a version upgrade.

6.4 Squelch Adjustment

Press the SQL button on the front panel to adjust the squelch level (0-9). A higher squelch level requires a stronger signal to open the receiver.

6.5 Function Menu

Press the FUN button to enter the function menu. Use the volume knob to navigate through menu options and the microphone buttons to select or adjust parameters.

6.6 Power Level Selection

The radio offers three power output levels: High (15W), Middle (10W), and Low (5W). Select the appropriate power level based on your communication needs and environment to optimize battery life and reduce interference.

Figure 8: Tri-Power Adjust feature.

6.7 Automatic Power-off (APO) Mode

The APO function helps save power and extend service life. You can set the radio to automatically switch off after 30 minutes, 1 hour, or 2 hours. This setting can be configured in the function menu (Menu No. 15).

Figure 9: APO Auto Power-off Mode.

7. Maintenance

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your Retevis RT98, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Regularly clean the radio's exterior with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents.
• Connections: Periodically check all connections (antenna, power) for tightness and corrosion.
• Microphone and Power Cable: The microphone and power cable are permanently attached to the radio. Avoid excessive pulling or bending of these cables to prevent internal damage.
• Ventilation: Ensure the radio's heat sink on the top surface is not obstructed to allow for proper heat dissipation.

8. Troubleshooting

8.1 Common Issues and Solutions

• Whistling/Noise: If you experience whistling or excessive noise, check the installation environment. Increase the distance between the host and the outside speaker, or adjust the volume down.
• No Sound/Silent: Ensure the power supply is properly connected and not loose. Check the volume adjustment button.
• Staccato/Choppy Audio: If the speaker is too far from the microphone, move it closer (ideally less than 20cm). If ambient noise is strong, reduce the speaker volume or move closer to the microphone.
• Radio Not Programming: If the radio does not program with the cable, ensure the correct programming software is used and the cable is properly connected. Contact customer support for the latest software.
• Cannot Configure Channels: If the radio defaults to a single frequency (e.g., 460.100) and you cannot change channels, a full reset might be necessary.
• VFO Function Unavailable: Due to a version upgrade, the VFO function (direct frequency input) is currently not available. Please wait for further notice.

9. Specifications

10. User Tips

• Antenna Choice: For optimal performance, especially in challenging environments, consider using a high-quality external antenna. Some users recommend real Diamond antennas (not copies).
• Power Output: While advertised at 15W max, actual measured output might be closer to 10W. For most urban or short-distance communications (3-5 km), 5W is often sufficient.
• VFO Function: Be aware that the VFO (direct frequency input) function is currently unavailable due to a product upgrade.
• Microphone: The microphone is permanently attached. This can be a pro (no connection issues) or a con (less flexibility).
• Programming: The radio can be programmed directly from the front panel and microphone, or via a computer using the optional programming cable.
• Frequency Selection for Russia: For use in Russia, UHF is generally recommended if you do not have a call sign.

11. Warranty and Support

Most new Retevis products come with a two-year manufacturer's warranty from the date of purchase. For detailed warranty information, please refer to the official Retevis website or the separate safety booklet included with your product.

11.1 Warranty Exclusions

The warranty does not cover:

• Damage caused by accident, misuse, or abuse.
• Unauthorized alterations or repairs.
• Products with altered, defaced, or removed serial numbers.

11.2 Product Safety and RF Energy Exposure

Before using this radio, please read the safety guide provided in the user manual. This guide contains important operating instructions for safe usage and RF energy awareness to ensure compliance with applicable standards and regulations. Users should be fully aware of and able to control their exposure to meet occupational requirements.

11.3 Contacting Support

For warranty service or technical support, please contact the seller from whom you purchased the product. You may also find support resources and contact information on the official Retevis website.

User manual (PDF) is available for download from the seller's website.