Sony ICF-P26 Portable AM/FM Radio Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and efficient use of your Sony ICF-P26 Portable AM/FM Radio. This compact, vertical radio is designed for convenience and portability, offering clear audio through its built-in speaker or a dedicated headphone jack. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the device and retain it for future reference.

2. Product Overview

Figure 1: Front view of the Sony ICF-P26 Portable AM/FM Radio, showing the speaker grille, tuning dial, and Sony branding.

Figure 2: Side and back view of the Sony ICF-P26 Portable AM/FM Radio, highlighting the telescopic antenna, volume control, headphone jack, and battery compartment.

The Sony ICF-P26 is a compact AM/FM radio featuring a built-in speaker, a telescopic antenna for enhanced reception, and a headphone jack for private listening. It operates on two AA batteries, making it highly portable.

3. Setup

3.1 Battery Installation

1. Locate the battery compartment cover on the back of the radio.
2. Slide the cover open in the direction indicated by the arrow.
3. Insert two AA batteries (not included) into the compartment, ensuring the correct polarity (positive '+' and negative '-' ends) matches the diagrams inside the compartment.
4. Close the battery compartment cover securely until it clicks into place.

Note: The radio features an LED battery status indicator. A green light indicates sufficient battery power, while a red light or no light may indicate low battery or incorrect installation.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Power On/Off and Band Selection

• To turn the radio ON and select a band, slide the BAND switch (located on the side) to either FM or AM.
• To turn the radio OFF, slide the BAND switch to the OFF position.

4.2 Volume Control

• Adjust the listening volume by rotating the VOLUME dial (located on the side). Rotate upwards to increase volume and downwards to decrease it.

4.3 Tuning to a Station

• Extend the telescopic antenna for optimal FM reception. For AM reception, the radio has a built-in ferrite bar antenna, so the telescopic antenna is not required.
• Rotate the TUNE dial (located on the side) to scan for radio stations.
• Observe the TUNE LED indicator. It will illuminate when a station is properly tuned, indicating optimal reception.

4.4 Using Headphones

• Plug 3.5mm headphones into the headphone jack (located on the side). The built-in speaker will automatically mute.
• Adjust the volume using the VOLUME dial.

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wipe the radio with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Battery Care: If the unit will not be used for an extended period, remove the batteries to prevent leakage and corrosion.
• Storage: Store the radio in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Antenna: Handle the telescopic antenna with care to avoid bending or breaking.

6. Troubleshooting

• Radio does not turn on:
  • Ensure batteries are inserted with correct polarity (⊕ and ⊖).
  • Replace old or expired batteries with new ones. Do not mix old and new batteries or different types of batteries.
• Poor reception:
  • Extend the telescopic antenna fully for FM.
  • Adjust the position of the radio or antenna for better signal.
  • Move away from sources of interference (e.g., other electronic devices, large metal objects).
• Low or distorted sound:
  • Adjust the volume control.
  • Check battery level; replace if low.
  • Ensure the station is properly tuned using the TUNE indicator.
• Headphones not working:
  • Ensure headphones are fully plugged into the jack.
  • Test with another pair of headphones to rule out headphone malfunction.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the official Sony website or contact Sony customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.

You can visit the Sony Store on Amazon for more product information and support resources.