1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the SuperSonic SC-257A Portable DVD Player. This device combines a portable DVD player with a digital TV tuner, USB/SD media playback capabilities, and a 7-inch TFT swivel display. It is designed for versatile entertainment on the go, compatible with both AC and DC power sources, making it suitable for home, car, or RV use. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the unit to ensure proper use and to maximize its performance and longevity.
2. Important Safety Information
WARNING: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, etc., always observe the following basic safety precautions:
- Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
- Do not open the casing. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- Avoid placing the unit near heat sources or in direct sunlight.
- Ensure proper ventilation around the unit during operation.
- Use only the specified power adapters (AC/DC) provided with the unit.
- Keep the unit away from strong magnetic fields.
- Handle discs and media cards carefully to prevent damage.
3. Package Contents
Please check that all items are present upon unpacking:
- SuperSonic SC-257A Portable DVD Player
- AC Power Adapter
- DC Car Adapter
- Remote Control
- AV Cable
- External Antenna
- User Manual (this document)
4. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the various parts and controls of your portable DVD player.

Figure 1: SuperSonic SC-257A Portable DVD Player. The image shows the device open, with the 7-inch TFT screen swiveled and displaying a red sports car. The base unit features control buttons for playback, menu navigation, volume, and input selection, along with a disc tray cover and an 'OPEN' indicator.
4.1 Front Panel Controls (Refer to Figure 1)
- SETUP: Accesses the system setup menu.
- MODE: Switches between different input modes (DVD, USB, SD, TV).
- MENU: Displays the disc menu or TV menu.
- PREV/CH+: Skips to the previous track/chapter or increases TV channel number.
- REV: Rewinds playback.
- DISC/USB/SD: Input selector for DVD, USB, or SD card.
- FWD: Fast forwards playback.
- NEXT/CH-: Skips to the next track/chapter or decreases TV channel number.
- R/L: Selects audio channels (Right/Left) or stereo/mono modes.
- SCAN: Scans for TV channels.
- VOL-: Decreases volume.
- VOL+: Increases volume.
- PLAY/PAUSE: Starts or pauses playback.
- STOP: Stops playback.
- OPEN: Slide button to open the disc compartment.
4.2 Side Panel Connections
- Power Input (DC IN): For connecting the AC or DC power adapter.
- USB Port: For connecting USB flash drives.
- SD/MMC Card Slot: For inserting SD or MMC memory cards.
- Headphone Jack (3.5mm): For connecting headphones.
- AV OUT: For connecting to an external display or audio system.
- AV IN: For connecting external audio/video sources.
- Antenna Input: For connecting the external TV antenna.
5. Setup
5.1 Power Connection
- AC Power: Connect the AC power adapter to the DC IN port on the unit and then plug it into a standard wall outlet.
- DC Power (Car/RV): Connect the DC car adapter to the DC IN port on the unit and then plug it into your vehicle's 12V power socket.
- Battery Operation: The unit has a built-in rechargeable battery. Ensure the battery is fully charged before portable use. The charging indicator light will show charging status.
5.2 Antenna Connection
For TV reception, connect the provided external antenna to the Antenna Input port on the side of the unit. For optimal reception, position the antenna in an area with a clear signal.
5.3 Initial Setup
- Power on the unit by pressing the power button.
- The first time you use the unit, you may be prompted to select a language and region. Use the navigation buttons on the unit or remote to make your selections and confirm.
- Access the SETUP menu to configure display, audio, and other system settings as desired.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 DVD Playback
- Slide the OPEN button to open the disc compartment.
- Carefully place a DVD or CD onto the spindle with the label side facing up. Close the disc compartment firmly.
- Press the MODE button or DISC/USB/SD button to select DVD mode.
- The disc should begin playing automatically. If not, press PLAY/PAUSE.
- Use PLAY/PAUSE, STOP, PREV/CH+, NEXT/CH-, REV, and FWD buttons for playback control.
- Adjust volume using VOL+ and VOL-.
6.2 USB/SD Playback
- Insert a USB flash drive into the USB port or an SD/MMC card into the card slot.
- Press the MODE button or DISC/USB/SD button to select USB or SD mode.
- The unit will display the file browser. Use the navigation buttons to select your desired media file (DIVX, MPEG4, JPEG, MP4, etc.) and press PLAY/PAUSE to start.
6.3 TV Tuner Operation
- Ensure the external antenna is connected.
- Press the MODE button to select TV mode.
- If this is the first time using TV mode, or if you are in a new location, press the SCAN button to perform an automatic channel scan. This will find and store available digital TV channels.
- Use PREV/CH+ and NEXT/CH- to change channels.
- Adjust volume using VOL+ and VOL-.
6.4 Audio Output
- Built-in Speaker: Audio will play through the integrated speaker.
- Headphones: Plug 3.5mm headphones into the headphone jack. The built-in speaker will mute automatically.
- External Audio System: Use the AV OUT port with the provided AV cable to connect to an external amplifier or speaker system.
6.5 Swivel Display
The 7-inch TFT display can be swiveled and folded for optimal viewing angles. Gently rotate the screen clockwise or counter-clockwise to adjust its position. Avoid excessive force to prevent damage to the hinge mechanism.
7. Maintenance
- Cleaning the Unit: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. For the screen, use a soft, lint-free cloth specifically designed for electronic displays. Do not use liquid cleaners or abrasive materials.
- Disc Care: Handle discs by their edges. Keep them clean and free of scratches. Store discs in their cases when not in use.
- Battery Care: For optimal battery life, fully charge the unit before first use. If storing the unit for an extended period, charge it periodically (e.g., every 3 months) to maintain battery health. Avoid exposing the battery to extreme temperatures.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Power adapter not connected; Battery depleted; Unit not turned on. | Ensure power adapter is securely connected; Charge the battery; Press the power button. |
| No disc playback | Disc inserted incorrectly; Disc is dirty or scratched; Incorrect mode selected; Region code mismatch. | Reinsert disc correctly; Clean or replace disc; Select DVD mode; Ensure disc is compatible with player's region. |
| No TV signal/channels | Antenna not connected; Poor antenna position; No channel scan performed. | Connect antenna securely; Adjust antenna position for better reception; Perform a channel scan. |
| Low volume during DVD playback | Volume level too low; Audio settings. | Increase volume using VOL+; Check audio settings in the SETUP menu. Consider external amplified speakers if in a noisy environment. |
| USB/SD not recognized | Incorrect mode selected; Incompatible file format; Corrupted media. | Select USB or SD mode; Ensure files are supported (DIVX, MPEG4, JPEG, MP4); Try another USB/SD device. |
9. Specifications
- Model Number: SC-257A
- Screen Size: 7-Inch TFT Swivel Display
- Resolution: 480 x 234
- Screen Mode: 16:9 and 4:3
- Supported Formats: DVD/DIVX/MPEG4/JPEG/MP4/CD±R/CD±RW
- Inputs: USB, SD/MMC Card Reader, AV IN
- Outputs: 3.5mm Headphone Jack, AV OUT
- Tuner: Built-in Hybrid Digital TV Tuner
- Audio: Built-in Speaker
- Power: AC/DC Compatible (AC adapter, DC car adapter)
- Batteries: 3 Lithium Ion batteries required (built-in)
- Item Weight: Approximately 1.53 pounds
- Product Dimensions: Approximately 17 x 9 x 3 inches
10. Warranty and Support
This product is covered by a limited manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Supersonic website. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or service inquiries, please contact Supersonic customer service through their official channels.





