Retevis RT388

Retevis RT-388 Kids Walkie Talkies Instruction Manual

Model: RT-388

1. Introduction

The Retevis RT-388 Kids Walkie Talkies are designed for clear and reliable communication, perfect for children aged 6-12. These compact and lightweight devices are ideal for various indoor and outdoor activities, including camping, adventure games, and general play. Featuring 22 channels, an LCD flashlight, and an ergonomic design, they provide a fun and safe way for kids to stay connected.

Key Features:

  • Clear sound quality with adjustable volume.
  • Key lock function to prevent accidental channel changes.
  • Ergonomic and lightweight design, easy for small hands to hold.
  • VOX (Voice Operated Exchange) function for hands-free communication.
  • Long range capability, up to 1000 meters in open areas.
  • 22 FRS channels with CTCSS/DCS tones for privacy.
  • Built-in flashlight and backlit LCD display for use in low light.

2. What's in the Box

  • 2 x RT388 Walkie Talkies
  • 2 x Belt Clips
  • 1 x User Manual
Contents of the Retevis RT-388 package, showing two pink walkie talkies, two belt clips, and a user manual.
Figure 2.1: Package Contents - Two RT-388 walkie talkies, two belt clips, and the user manual.

3. Setup

3.1 Battery Installation

Each RT-388 walkie talkie requires 4 AAA batteries (not included). Ensure correct polarity when inserting batteries.

  1. Locate the battery compartment on the back of the walkie talkie.
  2. Open the battery compartment cover.
  3. Insert 4 AAA batteries, matching the + and - indicators inside the compartment.
  4. Close the battery compartment cover securely.
Close-up of the Retevis RT-388 battery compartment, showing where to insert AAA batteries.
Figure 3.1: Battery Compartment and Features Overview.
Back view of the Retevis RT-388 walkie talkie showing the battery cover and belt clip attachment point.
Figure 3.2: Rear view of the walkie talkie, highlighting the battery cover.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Power On/Off

To turn the walkie talkie on or off, press and hold the Power button (usually marked with a circle and a vertical line) for 3 seconds. A beep sound will confirm the action.

Video 4.1: Demonstrates how to power on the RT-388 walkie talkie and adjust settings.

4.2 Adjusting Volume

Use the Up (▲) or Down (▼) buttons to increase or decrease the volume level.

4.3 Channel Selection

The RT-388 features 22 channels. To change the channel:

  1. Press the MENU button once. The channel number on the LCD display will start to flash.
  2. Use the Up (▲) or Down (▼) buttons to select your desired channel.
  3. Press the TALK button to save the setting and exit the menu.

For clear communication, both walkie talkies must be set to the same channel and CTCSS/DCS code.

Image illustrating clear sound transmission and reception with the Retevis RT-388, showing microphone and speaker.
Figure 4.1: Clear Sound Functionality - Microphone and Speaker.

4.4 CTCSS/DCS Tones

CTCSS (Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System) and DCS (Digitally Coded Squelch) tones help filter out unwanted conversations on the same channel. To set a tone:

  1. Press the MENU button twice. The code number will start to flash.
  2. Use the Up (▲) or Down (▼) buttons to select your desired code.
  3. Press the TALK button to save the setting.

4.5 VOX Function (Voice Operated Exchange)

VOX allows for hands-free operation. When activated, the walkie talkie will transmit automatically when it detects your voice.

  1. Press the MENU button three times. The VOX icon and level will flash.
  2. Use the Up (▲) or Down (▼) buttons to select the VOX sensitivity level (e.g., 1-3, with 1 being most sensitive). Select "OF" to turn VOX off.
  3. Press the TALK button to save the setting.

4.6 Call Tone

The walkie talkie has multiple call tones to alert the other party.

  1. Press the MENU button four times. The current call tone number will flash.
  2. Use the Up (▲) or Down (▼) buttons to cycle through the available call tones.
  3. Press the TALK button to save the setting.

4.7 Keypad Lock

To prevent accidental changes to settings, you can lock the keypad.

  • Press and hold the MENU button until the key lock icon appears on the display.
  • To unlock, press and hold the MENU button again until the key lock icon disappears.

4.8 Flashlight

The built-in flashlight is useful in dark environments.

  • Press the LAMP button to turn the flashlight on or off.
Retevis RT-388 walkie talkie with a spotlight effect showing its built-in flashlight feature.
Figure 4.2: Built-in Flashlight.
Retevis RT-388 walkie talkie in a night setting with its flashlight illuminated, highlighting its utility in the dark.
Figure 4.3: Flashlight in use during low light conditions.

5. Maintenance

  • Keep the walkie talkies dry. If they get wet, wipe them dry immediately.
  • Do not use harsh chemicals or cleaning solvents to clean the devices. Use a soft, damp cloth.
  • Avoid extreme temperatures. Do not store in very hot or cold environments.
  • Remove batteries if the devices will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.

6. Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
No powerBatteries are dead or incorrectly installed.Replace batteries or ensure correct polarity.
Cannot communicate with other walkie talkiesDifferent channels or CTCSS/DCS codes. Out of range.Ensure all units are on the same channel and code. Move closer to the other unit.
Static or unclear soundInterference or weak signal.Change channel. Move to an open area away from obstructions.
Keypad is unresponsiveKeypad lock is activated.Press and hold the MENU button to unlock the keypad.

7. Specifications

  • Model: RT388
  • Brand: Retevis
  • Number of Channels: 22 FRS Channels
  • Talking Range Maximum: Up to 2 Miles (approx. 1000 meters in open areas)
  • Power Source: 8 AAA batteries required (4 per unit)
  • Product Dimensions: 5.51 x 2.17 x 1.1 inches (145mm x 55mm x 32mm)
  • Item Weight: 2.8 ounces (per unit)
  • Display Type: LCD
  • Water Resistance Level: Not Water Resistant
  • Country of Origin: China

8. Warranty & Support

Retevis offers a simple and convenient return process, including a 90-day warranty and a 30-day return policy with no questions asked. For further support or inquiries, please refer to the contact information provided with your purchase or visit the official Retevis website.

Official Retevis Store: Retevis Store on Amazon

Related Documents - RT388

Preview Manuel d'Utilisateur Retevis RT-388 : Guide Complet
Découvrez le manuel d'utilisation du talkie-walkie Retevis RT-388. Apprenez à utiliser toutes les fonctionnalités, des réglages de base aux spécifications techniques, pour une communication claire et fiable.
Preview Retevis RT-628 Walkie-Talkie Radio for Kids - Features and Specifications
Discover the Retevis RT-628, a user-friendly walkie-talkie radio designed for children. This brochure details its features, specifications, standard and optional accessories, and technical details.
Preview RETEVIS RT-628 Bedienungsanleitung: Installation, Betrieb und Spezifikationen
Umfassende Bedienungsanleitung für das RETEVIS RT-628 Funkgerät. Erfahren Sie mehr über Installation, grundlegende Bedienung, erweiterte Funktionen und technische Spezifikationen.
Preview Retevis RT628 Kids Walkie Talkie User's Guide
Comprehensive user guide for the Retevis RT628 Kids Walkie Talkie, covering setup, operation, features, safety, and warranty information. Learn how to use your walkie talkie effectively and safely.
Preview Retevis RT628 Kids Walkie Talkie User's Guide
User's guide for the Retevis RT628 Kids Walkie Talkie, detailing features, operation, safety instructions, and RF exposure compliance. Includes technical specifications and setup procedures.
Preview Retevis RT628 Kids Walkie Talkie User's Guide - Features, Operation, and Safety
Comprehensive user guide for the Retevis RT628 Kids Walkie Talkie, covering setup, operation, features, specifications, and safety information. Learn how to use your RT628 for clear communication.