Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the operation and maintenance of your DEGEN DE1131. The DE1131 is a versatile portable device combining a digital AM/FM/SW radio, an MP3 player, a voice recorder, and an e-book reader, all controlled via a touch screen interface. Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure proper use and to maximize your device's functionality.
Package Contents
Upon unpacking, please verify that all items listed below are included:
- DEGEN DE1131 Unit
- BL-5C Rechargeable Battery
- USB Cable
- Lanyard
- User Manual (this document)
- Remote Control

Image: The DEGEN DE1131 unit, its packaging, USB cable, and user manual.
Setup
1. Battery Installation
- Locate the battery compartment on the back of the DE1131 unit.
- Open the battery compartment cover.
- Insert the provided BL-5C rechargeable battery, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.

Image: Rear view of the DEGEN DE1131, illustrating the battery compartment and product labels.
2. Charging the Battery
Before first use, fully charge the battery.
- Connect the small end of the included USB cable to the USB port on the side of the DE1131.
- Connect the standard USB end to a computer's USB port or a compatible USB wall adapter (not included).
- The charging indicator on the device will illuminate. Charging is complete when the indicator changes or turns off (refer to on-screen battery icon).
- Note: The manual states that using the radio while charging can damage your computer's USB ports. It is recommended to charge the device when not in use.

Image: Side view of the DEGEN DE1131, highlighting the USB port and power/lock buttons.
3. Initial Power On
Press and hold the power button (usually located on the side) to turn on the device. The touch screen will activate.
Operating Instructions
General Controls and Touch Screen Interface
The DE1131 features a touch screen for most operations. Physical buttons are limited to power and lock functions.
- Touch-n-Slide Control: Used for tuning radio stations, browsing menus, and adjusting volume. Slide your finger across the designated area on the screen.
- Menu Button: Accesses the main menu for different functions (Radio, MP3, Recorder, E-Book).
- ESC Button: Returns to the previous screen or exits a function.
- Volume Controls: Adjust volume via the touch screen interface.
- Navigation Buttons: On-screen buttons for track skipping (MP3) or frequency adjustment (Radio).

Image: Front view of the DEGEN DE1131, displaying its touch screen interface and button layout for navigation and function selection.
Radio Operation (AM/FM/SW)
- From the main menu, select the "Radio" function.
- Band Selection: Tap the "FM", "MW" (AM), or "SW" button on the screen to switch between frequency bands.
- Tuning Methods:
- Touch-n-Slide: Slide your finger across the tuning area to manually adjust the frequency.
- Auto Scan: Initiates an automatic scan for available stations.
- ATS (Auto Tuning Storage): Automatically scans and stores strong stations into memory.
- Memory Tuning: Recall stored stations using the M- and M+ buttons.
- Manual Memory Scan: Manually browse through stored stations.
- Preset Memories: The device supports 248 preset memories (FM-99, MW-25, SW-99). Refer to the on-screen prompts for saving and recalling stations.
- Antenna: Extend the telescopic antenna for optimal FM and SW reception. AM reception uses an internal ferrite bar antenna.
MP3 Player Operation
The DE1131 has a built-in 4GB flash memory and supports Micro-SD cards for expanded storage.
- From the main menu, select the "MP3" function.
- File Transfer: Connect the device to a computer via USB. The DE1131 will appear as a removable disk, allowing you to drag and drop MP3/WMA files into its internal memory or a Micro-SD card.
- Playback: Browse your music library using the touch screen. Select a file to begin playback.
- Controls: Use the on-screen navigation buttons for Play/Pause, Next Track, Previous Track.
- Micro-SD Card: Insert a Micro-SD card into the designated slot for additional storage. The device will automatically detect and allow access to files on the card.
Voice Recorder Operation
- From the main menu, select the "Recorder" function.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to start, pause, and stop recordings.
- Recordings are saved to the internal memory or Micro-SD card.
E-Book Reader Operation
The DE1131 supports TXT format e-books.
- Transfer TXT files to the device's internal memory or Micro-SD card via USB.
- From the main menu, select the "E-Book" function.
- Browse and select a TXT file to open and read.
Additional Functions
- Digital Clock: Displays the current time.
- Sleep Timer: Allows the device to automatically turn off after a set period. Access this feature through the system settings or menu.
- Key Lock: Prevents accidental input from the touch screen. Activate/deactivate using the physical lock button on the side or via the menu.
- LED Back-lit Display: The screen is backlit for visibility in various lighting conditions.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or abrasive materials.
- Battery Care: To prolong battery life, avoid fully discharging the battery frequently. If storing the device for an extended period, charge the battery to about 50% and recharge every few months.
- Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity.
- Avoid Impact: Protect the device from drops and impacts, especially the touch screen.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device does not power on. | Battery is depleted or not installed correctly. | Charge the battery. Ensure the battery is inserted with correct polarity. |
| Touch screen is unresponsive or inaccurate. | Software glitch, screen protector interference, or environmental factors. | Restart the device. Ensure the screen is clean and dry. If a screen protector is used, ensure it is properly applied. |
| Poor radio reception. | Antenna not extended, weak signal area, or interference. | Fully extend the telescopic antenna for FM/SW. Try moving to a different location. Avoid areas with strong electronic interference. |
| MP3 files not playing or recognized. | Unsupported file format, corrupted files, or incorrect file location. | Ensure files are in MP3 or WMA format. Verify files are not corrupted. Check that files are placed in the correct directory on the internal memory or Micro-SD card. |
| Battery life is shorter than expected. | High volume usage, frequent backlighting, or aging battery. | Reduce volume. Adjust screen brightness/backlight timeout. Consider replacing the battery if it's old. |
Specifications
- Model: DE1131
- Dimensions: 4.5 x 0.75 x 2.5 inches (11.43 x 1.91 x 6.35 cm)
- Weight: 5 ounces (141.75 grams)
- FM Frequency Range: 64.0 - 108.0 MHz (Stereo)
- MW (AM) Frequency Range: 522 - 1710 kHz (9k/10k tuning step)
- SW Frequency Range: 2.3 - 23 MHz
- Preset Memories: 248 (FM-99, MW-25, SW-99)
- Noise Limit Sensitivity: FM <5uV, MW <2.5uV/m, SW <50uV
- Signal Selectivity: > 40dB
- Internal Memory: 4 GB Flash Memory
- External Memory: Micro-SD Card Reader (up to 32GB)
- Supported Audio Formats: MP3, WMA
- Supported E-Book Format: TXT
- Battery: 1 x BL-5C Lithium Ion rechargeable battery (included)
- Connectivity: USB
- Screen Size: 4 Inches
- Included Components: DEGEN DE1131, BL-5C Battery, USB Cable, Lanyard, Remote Control
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact DEGEN customer service. Contact details are typically available on the manufacturer's official website or through your retailer.







