Introduction
Thank you for choosing the NAXA NRC-173 Projection Dual Alarm Clock Radio. This manual provides detailed instructions to help you set up, operate, and maintain your device. Please read these instructions carefully before use and retain them for future reference.
The NRC-173 features an AM/FM radio, two independent alarm timers, a time projection function, and snooze/sleep capabilities, allowing you to wake to either the radio or a buzzer.
Product Overview
The NAXA NRC-173 is designed for convenience and functionality. Key features include:
- AM/FM radio with digital preset memory for easy access to your favorite stations.
- Adjustable projector that displays the time onto any wall or ceiling.
- Two independent alarm timers to accommodate different schedules.
- Snooze and sleep functions for flexible wake-up and sleep routines.
- Option to wake up to either the radio or a buzzer sound.
- Operates on AC 110V power with a backup battery compartment for 2 AAA batteries (not included) to maintain time settings during power outages.
Controls and Display
Familiarize yourself with the buttons and display on your alarm clock:

Figure 1: Front View. This image shows the front of the alarm clock with its red LED display indicating '12:38'. Below the display are various control buttons including VOL+, VOL-, PRESET/M+, TU+, TU-, AM/FM, ON/OFF, ALARM OFF, ALARM 1, ALARM 2, TIME SET, HOUR, and MIN. The top of the unit features SNOOZE and SLEEP buttons.

Figure 2: Projection Feature. This image illustrates the time '12:38' being projected from the side-mounted projector onto a surface, demonstrating the clock's projection capability.

Figure 3: Side View with Projector. This image provides a side view of the alarm clock, clearly showing the adjustable arm of the projector unit. Buttons for projection ON/OFF, TIME, and FOCUS are visible on the side of the projector.

Figure 4: Back View. This image displays the rear of the alarm clock, featuring the AC power input and the battery compartment cover for backup batteries.
Setup
- Power Connection: Plug the AC power cord into a standard 110V AC wall outlet. The clock display will illuminate.
- Battery Backup: For clock backup during power outages, open the battery compartment on the bottom of the unit and insert two (2) AAA batteries (not included), observing correct polarity (+/-). These batteries will maintain time settings but will not power the display or alarm functions during an outage.
- Antenna: Extend the wire antenna located at the back of the unit for optimal AM/FM radio reception. Position it for best signal quality.
Operating Instructions
Setting the Time
- Press and hold the TIME SET button. The hour digits on the display will begin to flash.
- While the hour digits are flashing, press the HOUR button repeatedly to set the correct hour. Observe the PM indicator if setting a PM time.
- Press the MIN button repeatedly to set the correct minute.
- Release the TIME SET button to confirm the time.
Setting Alarms (Alarm 1 and Alarm 2)
The NRC-173 features two independent alarms.
- Press and hold the ALARM 1 or ALARM 2 button. The alarm hour digits will flash.
- While the hour digits are flashing, press the HOUR button to set the desired alarm hour.
- Press the MIN button to set the desired alarm minute.
- Press the ALARM 1 or ALARM 2 button again to cycle through wake options: Buzzer, Radio, or Off. The corresponding indicator (bell for buzzer, music note for radio) will appear on the display.
- Release the alarm button to confirm the alarm setting.
Using the Projection Feature
- Activate Projection: Locate the projector arm on the left side of the unit. Flip the ON/OFF switch on the projector arm to the 'ON' position.
- Adjust Angle: Rotate the projector arm to direct the time display onto a wall or ceiling.
- Focus: Use the FOCUS dial on the projector arm to sharpen the projected image.
- Set Projection Time: The projected time can be set independently from the main clock. Press and hold the TIME button on the projector arm, then use the HOUR and MIN buttons on the main unit to adjust the projected time. Release the TIME button to save.
- Orientation: If the projected time appears reversed, try rotating the entire clock unit or adjusting the projector arm's angle.
AM/FM Radio Operation
- Turn On/Off: Press the ON/OFF button to turn the radio on or off.
- Select Band: Press the AM/FM button to switch between AM and FM bands.
- Tune Stations: Use the TU+ and TU- buttons to manually tune to desired frequencies. Press and hold for automatic scanning.
- Adjust Volume: Use the VOL+ and VOL- buttons to adjust the listening volume.
- Set Presets: To save a station, tune to the desired frequency, then press and hold the PRESET/M+ button until the preset number flashes. Use TU+ or TU- to select a preset number, then press PRESET/M+ again to save.
- Recall Presets: Briefly press the PRESET/M+ button to cycle through saved stations.
Snooze and Sleep Functions
- Snooze: When an alarm sounds, press the large SNOOZE button on top of the unit. The alarm will temporarily pause and sound again after approximately 9 minutes.
- Sleep: To fall asleep to the radio, press the SLEEP button. Repeated presses will cycle through various sleep timer durations (e.g., 90, 60, 30, 15 minutes, or OFF). The radio will automatically turn off after the selected duration.
- Alarm Off: To turn off a sounding alarm completely, press the ALARM OFF button.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Battery Replacement: Replace the AAA backup batteries annually or when the clock loses time during power interruptions.
- Placement: Place the clock on a stable, flat surface away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and excessive moisture.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Clock display is off / Unit not powering on. | AC power cord is disconnected or outlet is not active. | Ensure the AC power cord is securely plugged into a working outlet. |
| Clock loses time during a power outage. | Backup batteries are not installed or are depleted. | Install two fresh AAA batteries or replace existing ones. |
| Projection is blurry or not visible. | Projector focus needs adjustment; projector is off; room is too bright. | Adjust the FOCUS dial. Ensure the projector ON/OFF switch is 'ON'. Use in a darker environment. |
| Projected time is incorrect or reversed. | Projection time set independently; unit orientation. | Set the projection time using the TIME button on the projector arm. Rotate the entire clock unit to correct orientation if needed. |
| Poor radio reception / Static. | Antenna not extended or positioned correctly; interference. | Fully extend the wire antenna and adjust its position for better signal. Move away from other electronic devices. |
| Alarm does not sound. | Alarm is not set or is set to 'OFF'; volume is too low (for radio alarm). | Verify alarm settings (time and wake source). Increase radio volume if using radio alarm. |
Specifications
- Model: NRC-173
- Power Source: AC 110V
- Battery Backup: 2 x AAA batteries (not included)
- Display Type: LED
- Radio Bands: AM/FM
- Dimensions: Approximately 19.81 x 8.26 x 10.41 cm (7.8 x 3.25 x 4.1 inches)
- Weight: Approximately 254.01 g (0.56 lbs)
- Special Feature: Adjustable Time Projection
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact NAXA Electronics customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.





