Black Box Bantam UHF 2-Way Radio User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Black Box BANTAM-U-M1 UHF 2-Way Radio. This compact, rugged, and full-power radio is designed for reliable communication in various environments. Featuring 16 channels, 4 watts/2 watts RF power, scanning capabilities, and voice channel enunciation, it provides clear and efficient two-way communication. This manual will guide you through the setup, operation, and maintenance of your radio to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

2. Safety Information

Please read and understand all safety precautions before operating the radio. Failure to do so may result in injury or damage to the device.

• Do not disassemble or modify the radio.
• Use only approved batteries and chargers.
• Avoid exposing the radio to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or moisture.
• Keep the radio away from medical devices to prevent interference.
• Do not operate the radio in explosive atmospheres.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

• Black Box BANTAM-U-M1 Radio Unit
• 1500 mAh Lithium Ion Battery
• Rapid Rate Desktop Charger
• Belt Clip
• Antenna
• User Manual (this document)

4. Product Overview

The Black Box BANTAM-U-M1 is a robust two-way radio designed for ease of use and durability. Below is an image of the radio with its key components.

Image: Front view of the Black Box BANTAM-U-M1 UHF 2-Way Radio, showing the antenna, channel knob, power/volume knob, speaker grille, and the 'BANTAM' branding.

Key Components:

• Antenna: For transmitting and receiving signals.
• Channel Knob: Selects one of the 16 available channels.
• Power/Volume Knob: Turns the radio on/off and adjusts the volume.
• Push-to-Talk (PTT) Button: Activates transmission.
• Speaker/Microphone: For audio output and input.
• Programmable Buttons: Three customizable buttons for functions like Voice Encryption, Alarm, Whisper Transmit, or High/Low Power.

5. Setup

5.1 Attaching the Battery

1. Align the battery pack with the grooves on the back of the radio.
2. Slide the battery upwards until it clicks into place.
3. To remove, press the battery release latch and slide the battery downwards.

5.2 Attaching the Antenna

1. Screw the antenna into the connector on the top of the radio by turning it clockwise until it is finger-tight.
2. Do not overtighten.

5.3 Charging the Battery

Before initial use, fully charge the battery. The radio comes with a rapid rate desktop charger.

1. Plug the AC adapter into a power outlet and connect it to the charger base.
2. Place the radio with the battery attached into the charger slot.
3. The charger indicator light will show the charging status (typically red for charging, green for fully charged).
4. A full charge typically takes several hours.

5.4 Attaching the Belt Clip

1. Align the belt clip with the screw holes on the back of the radio.
2. Secure it with the provided screws.

6. Operating the Radio

6.1 Power On/Off and Volume Adjustment

1. To power on, rotate the Power/Volume knob clockwise until you hear a click.
2. Continue rotating clockwise to increase the volume.
3. Rotate counter-clockwise to decrease the volume.
4. To power off, rotate the knob counter-clockwise until it clicks.

6.2 Channel Selection

The radio has 16 channels. To select a channel:

• Rotate the Channel knob to select the desired channel (1-16).
• The radio features Voice Channel Enunciation, which will announce the selected channel number.

6.3 Transmitting and Receiving

1. To receive, ensure the radio is powered on and on the correct channel.
2. To transmit, press and hold the Push-to-Talk (PTT) button on the side of the radio. Speak clearly into the microphone.
3. Release the PTT button to stop transmitting and return to receive mode.

6.4 Programmable Buttons

Your radio features three programmable buttons. These can be configured for various functions such as:

• Voice Encryption Function
• Alarm Function
• Whisper Transmit Function
• High/Low Power Selection

Configuration of these buttons requires PC programming. Refer to the PC Program Freqs, PL, DPL instructions for detailed setup.

6.5 Scanning Function

The radio supports a scanning feature to monitor activity across multiple channels. Consult the PC programming guide for details on enabling and configuring the scanning function.

7. Maintenance

7.1 Cleaning the Radio

• Wipe the radio surface with a soft, damp cloth.
• Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Ensure the radio is dry before use or charging.

7.2 Battery Care

• Do not short-circuit the battery terminals.
• Do not dispose of batteries in fire.
• If the radio will not be used for an extended period, remove the battery.
• Store batteries in a cool, dry place.

8. Troubleshooting

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact Klein Electronics directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.