Retevis RT649 PMR446 Walkie Talkie User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Retevis RT649 PMR446 Walkie Talkie. This device is designed for reliable and clear communication, featuring IP65 dustproof and splash-proof capabilities, making it suitable for various outdoor and indoor environments. It operates on the license-free PMR446 frequency band, ensuring compatibility with other PMR446 radios. The RT649 offers easy operation, multiple charging options, and essential features like VOX hands-free communication and a built-in LED flashlight.

2. Package Contents

Please verify that all items are present in your package:

Retevis RT649 Walkie Talkie units (4 included in this specific package)
Belt Clips (4 included)
Rechargeable AA Batteries (12 included, 3 per radio)
USB Charging Cables (2 included)
Charging Stations (2 included)
English User Manual (2 included)

Image showing the package contents of the Retevis RT649 walkie talkie set, including four walkie talkies, two charging bases, two USB cables, four sets of AA batteries, four belt clips, and two user manuals.

Figure 2.1: Detailed view of the Retevis RT649 package contents.

3. Product Overview

The Retevis RT649 is a compact and durable PMR446 walkie talkie designed for ease of use and reliable performance in various conditions.

Front and side view of the Retevis RT649 walkie talkie, highlighting its compact design and various components like the headset port, lamp, power on/off button, call tone, PTT button, lock/menu button, monitor/scan button, and micro-USB charging port.

Figure 3.1: Front and side view of the Retevis RT649 with labeled components.

3.1 Key Features

License-Free PMR446: Ready to use in the UK and Europe without a license.
IP65 Waterproof & Dustproof: Resistant to splashes and dust, suitable for wet or dusty environments.
Multiple Power Options: Rechargeable 1200mAh AA NiMH batteries, USB charging cable, desktop charging station, and compatibility with standard AA batteries (not included).
VOX Function: Hands-free communication without pressing the PTT button.
Keyboard Lock: Prevents accidental changes to settings.
16 Channels & 121 Sub-codes (CTCSS/DCS): Ensures clear communication by filtering out unwanted signals.
LED Flashlight: Built-in light for dark environments or emergencies.
Compact & Portable: Comfortable for both adults and children to hold.

Four Retevis RT649 walkie talkies and two charging bases, showcasing the complete set.

Figure 3.2: The Retevis RT649 walkie talkie set.

4. Setup

4.1 Battery Installation and Charging

The RT649 uses 3 AA NiMH rechargeable batteries per unit. Ensure correct polarity when inserting batteries.

Open the battery compartment cover on the back of the walkie talkie.
Insert the 3 supplied AA NiMH rechargeable batteries, observing the polarity markings (+/-).
Close the battery compartment cover securely.
To charge, place the walkie talkie in the charging station or connect the micro-USB cable directly to the charging port on the side of the unit.
The battery indicator on the display will show charging status. Charge fully before first use.

Image illustrating the three ways to power the Retevis RT649: inserting 3x 1200mAh AA NiMH batteries, using the charging base, or connecting a Micro-USB charge cable.

Figure 4.1: Battery installation and charging options.

4.2 Attaching the Belt Clip

Attach the belt clip to the designated slot on the back of the walkie talkie for convenient carrying.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Power On/Off

To power on, press and hold the Power button (usually located above the CALL button) until the display lights up.
To power off, press and hold the Power button again until the display turns off.

5.2 Adjusting Volume

Use the Up and Down arrow buttons to adjust the listening volume.

5.3 Selecting Channels

The RT649 has 16 main channels.

Press the MENU button once. The channel number will flash.
Use the Up and Down arrow buttons to select your desired channel (1-16).
Press the MENU button again or wait a few seconds for the selection to be confirmed.

5.4 Setting Sub-codes (CTCSS/DCS)

Sub-codes help filter out unwanted conversations on the same main channel.

Press the MENU button twice. The sub-code number will flash.
Use the Up and Down arrow buttons to select a sub-code (1-121).
Press the MENU button again or wait a few seconds to confirm.

Image showing a walkie talkie with a padlock icon and the text CTCSS/DCS, indicating the sub-code feature for privacy.

Figure 5.1: CTCSS/DCS for enhanced privacy.

5.5 Transmitting and Receiving

To transmit, press and hold the PTT (Push-To-Talk) button on the side of the radio. Speak clearly into the microphone.
Release the PTT button to receive.
Ensure all radios are on the same channel and sub-code for communication.

5.6 VOX Function (Hands-Free)

VOX allows you to transmit by speaking into the microphone without pressing the PTT button.

Press the MENU button multiple times until "VOX" appears on the display.
Use the Up and Down arrow buttons to select the VOX sensitivity level (1-3, with 3 being most sensitive). "OFF" disables VOX.
Press the MENU button again or wait to confirm.

Video 5.1: Demonstration of the Retevis RT649 VOX function, showing how to activate and adjust VOX sensitivity for hands-free operation.

A hand pressing the menu button on the Retevis RT649 walkie talkie, with text indicating 'Keyboard Lock & VOX' and 'avoid changing setting by accident vox real free your hands'.

Figure 5.2: Keyboard lock and VOX function for convenience and security.

5.7 Using the LED Flashlight

Press the LAMP button to turn the LED flashlight on or off. This can be useful in low-light conditions or emergencies.

5.8 Call Tone

Press the CALL button to send an audible call alert to other radios on the same channel.

5.9 Monitor and Scan Functions

Monitor: Press the Mon/Scan button briefly to listen to weak signals on the current channel.
Scan: Press and hold the Mon/Scan button to activate channel scanning. The radio will scan through all 16 channels and stop on an active channel. Press again to stop scanning.

6. Maintenance

Cleaning: Wipe the radio with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Storage: Store the radio in a cool, dry place when not in use. Remove batteries if storing for extended periods to prevent leakage.
Battery Care: Fully charge batteries before first use. Avoid overcharging or completely draining batteries to prolong their lifespan.
Water Resistance: While IP65 rated, avoid submerging the radio in water. Ensure battery compartment and charging port covers are securely closed to maintain water resistance.

Image showing a person walking in the rain with an umbrella and a dog, with icons for IP65 water resistance and SOS flashlight, indicating the radio's durability and emergency features.

Figure 6.1: The RT649's IP65 rating ensures durability in various weather conditions.

7. Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No power	Batteries are low or incorrectly installed.	Recharge or replace batteries. Ensure correct polarity.
Cannot communicate with other radios	Radios are on different channels or sub-codes. Out of range.	Ensure all radios are on the same channel and sub-code. Move closer to other radios.
Poor audio quality / Static	Weak signal. Interference.	Move to an open area. Change channel or sub-code.
VOX not working	VOX sensitivity too low.	Increase VOX sensitivity level in the menu.
Keyboard locked	Keyboard lock feature is active.	Press and hold the MENU button until the lock icon disappears.

8. Specifications

Model: RT649
Frequency Range: PMR446 (446.00625-446.19375 MHz)
Channels: 16
Sub-codes: 121 (CTCSS/DCS)
Power Output: 0.5W (PMR446 standard)
Battery Type: 3 x AA NiMH rechargeable (1200mAh) or standard AA (not included)
Charging: Micro USB / Desktop Charger
Water Resistance: IP65 Dustproof & Splashproof
Dimensions: 3.2D x 5.4W x 17.4H cm (approx.)
Range: Up to 3 miles (approx. 4.8 km) in open areas; varies significantly with terrain and obstructions.

9. Warranty and Support

Retevis offers a 2-year warranty for this product. You may try the product for 30 days and return it for free if not satisfied. We can replace the walkie talkie for you within 6 months. After 11 months, we will be responsible for repairing the product, but you will be responsible for shipping costs.

For further assistance or technical support, please visit the official Retevis website or contact their customer service.

Manufacturer: Retevis

Country of Origin: China

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