Retevis RT21 FRS Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Retevis RT21 FRS Two-Way Radio is designed for reliable and clear communication in various environments, including business, education, and outdoor activities. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your RT21 walkie-talkie to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Figure 1: Retevis RT21 Walkie Talkies with accessories.

2. Package Contents

Upon opening your Retevis RT21 package, you should find the following items:

• 10 x Retevis RT21 2 Way Radio
• 10 x Li-ion battery
• 10 x Charger
• 10 x Earpiece

Figure 2: All components included in the Retevis RT21 package.

3. Product Features

• Long Range Communication: Engineered for clear audio and dependable on-site communication across various sectors including construction, facility management, hospitality, and retail.
• Rugged Durability: Built to withstand moisture, dust, vibrations, and extreme temperatures, ensuring longevity in demanding environments. Features a durable back clip and lanyard.
• User-Friendly Operation: Pre-set for immediate use out of the box. Includes 50 CTCSS and 208 DCS codes to minimize interference and ensure efficient communication.
• Extended Battery Life: Equipped with an 1100mAh battery providing up to 12 hours of continuous use, sufficient for a standard work shift. Each unit includes a separate charging base for convenient battery charging.
• Earpiece and Microphone Set: Comes with a 2-pin acoustic tube headset for clear communication in noisy environments.
• Emergency Alarm: Enhances safety and response times in various operational settings.

3.1. Rugged Construction

Figure 3: The RT21 features ABS material for drop resistance, an aluminum battery compartment for heat dissipation, and a sturdy belt clip.

3.2. Long-Lasting Battery Life

Figure 4: The 1100mAh battery provides extended operational times.

3.3. Clear Sound Quality & Premium Earpiece

Figure 5: The RT21 ensures clear audio even in loud environments, aided by the discreet air acoustic earpiece.

Figure 6: The premium earpiece enhances audio clarity and reduces fatigue.

3.4. Extensive Transmission Range

Figure 7: The RT21 offers a wide coverage area, minimizing dead zones and delays.

3.5. Emergency Alarm

Figure 8: The emergency alarm function provides an additional layer of safety.

4. Setup

4.1. Battery and Back Clip Installation

Before initial use, ensure the battery is properly installed and the back clip is attached. The back clip can be removed and installed as needed.

Video 1: Instructions on how to remove and install the back clip on the walkie-talkie. This process typically involves removing the battery first, then detaching or attaching the clip by aligning it with the corresponding hole and pressing down.

4.2. Charging the Battery

Each RT21 walkie-talkie comes with a dedicated charging base. Place the walkie-talkie into its charging base. The indicator light on the base will show the charging status (e.g., red for charging, green for fully charged).

Figure 9: Battery charging indicator.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Power On/Off and Volume Control

To power on the walkie-talkie, rotate the top-most knob clockwise until you hear a click. Continue rotating to adjust the volume. To power off, rotate the knob counter-clockwise until it clicks off.

5.2. Channel Selection

The second knob from the top is used for channel selection. Rotate this knob to choose one of the 16 available channels. Ensure all walkie-talkies intended for communication are set to the same channel.

5.3. Push-to-Talk (PTT)

To transmit your voice, press and hold the large Push-to-Talk (PTT) button located on the side of the walkie-talkie. Speak clearly into the microphone. Release the PTT button to listen for incoming transmissions.

5.4. Earpiece Usage

Connect the provided 2-pin acoustic tube earpiece into the designated ports on the side of the walkie-talkie. This allows for discreet and clear communication, especially in noisy environments.

6. Maintenance

6.1. Cleaning

Wipe the walkie-talkie with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Ensure all ports are dry before use or charging.

6.2. Battery Care

To prolong battery life, fully charge the batteries before initial use and after each period of significant discharge. Store batteries in a cool, dry place when not in use for extended periods.

7. Troubleshooting

• No Power: Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly installed. Check that the power/volume knob is turned on.
• Cannot Transmit or Receive: Verify that all communicating radios are on the same channel. Check that the PTT button is being pressed correctly during transmission. Ensure the antenna is securely attached.
• Poor Audio Quality: Adjust the volume. Ensure the earpiece (if used) is properly connected. Move to an area with less interference if possible.
• Interference: Change to a different channel. The RT21 supports 50 CTCSS and 208 DCS codes to help mitigate interference.

8. Specifications

Figure 10: Detailed technical specifications of the Retevis RT21.

9. Safety Information

The Retevis RT21 walkie-talkie is an FRS (Family Radio Service) device. Its FCC ID is 2AAR8RETEVISRT21, and it meets FCC rule part 95. Always operate the device in accordance with local regulations and guidelines.

10. Warranty and Support

Retevis provides a 3-year warranty for the radio body and a 1-year warranty for accessories. A 30-day no-reason return policy is also offered. Beyond the warranty period, maintenance services are available, with buyers responsible for associated costs. For support, contact Retevis on Amazon; responses are typically provided within 12 hours.

11. Product Videos

11.1. Retevis RT21 Best Durable Walkie Talkie for Business Use

Video 2: An overview of the Retevis RT21, highlighting its durability and suitability for business environments.

11.2. RT21 Walkie-Talkie Audio Test

Video 3: A demonstration of the audio quality and clarity of the Retevis RT21 walkie-talkie.