RCA RCDW10 Alarm Clock Radio with NOAA Weather Alerts User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your RCA RCDW10 Alarm Clock Radio. This device combines a digital alarm clock with an AM/FM radio and essential NOAA Weather Alert capabilities, designed to keep you informed and on schedule.

2. Important Safety Information

• Read all instructions before operating the unit.
• Keep this manual for future reference.
• Do not expose the unit to dripping or splashing water.
• Ensure proper ventilation; do not block ventilation openings.
• Use only attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
• Unplug the unit during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

3. Package Contents

• RCA RCDW10 Alarm Clock Radio
• AC Power Cord
• User Manual (this document)

Note: A 9V battery for backup power is not included and must be purchased separately.

4. Product Overview

Front View

Rear View

Top Panel Controls

Familiarize yourself with the buttons and ports:

• CLK/MEM: Clock/Memory button for setting time and saving radio presets.
• SET: Used in conjunction with CLK/MEM for setting time and alarms.
• DIMMER: Adjusts the brightness of the display.
• AL1 VOL+ / AL2 VOL-: Adjusts alarm volume and is used for setting alarms.
• SNOOZE/SLEEP: Activates snooze during an alarm or sleep timer during radio playback.
• SOURCE/AL OFF: Toggles between AM/FM/Weather Band/AUX modes and turns off the active alarm.
• NOAA: Activates the NOAA Weather Band.
• Tuning Buttons (+/-): Used for tuning radio frequencies and adjusting time/alarm settings.
• Antenna: Telescoping antenna for improved radio reception.
• AUX Input: 3.5mm jack for connecting external audio devices.
• Battery Compartment: For 9V battery backup.

5. Setup

5.1 Power Connection

1. Plug the AC power cord into the AC IN jack on the back of the unit.
2. Plug the other end of the power cord into a standard wall outlet (AC 120V, 60Hz).
3. The unit will power on, and the display will show a flashing time (e.g., 12:00 AM).

5.2 Battery Backup Installation

The unit requires one 9V battery (not included) for battery backup. This feature retains your time and alarm settings during a power outage.

1. Open the battery compartment cover on the back of the unit.
2. Insert a new 9V battery, observing the correct polarity (+ and -).
3. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

Note: Battery backup only maintains settings; the display will not illuminate, and alarms will not sound during a power outage.

5.3 Antenna Adjustment

For optimal AM/FM and Weather Band reception, extend the telescoping antenna fully and adjust its position. For AM reception, rotating the unit itself may also improve signal quality.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Setting the Clock Time

1. Press and hold the CLK/MEM button until the display flashes.
2. Use the + or - tuning buttons to adjust the hour. Observe the PM indicator for correct AM/PM setting.
3. Press the CLK/MEM button again. The minute digits will flash.
4. Use the + or - tuning buttons to adjust the minutes.
5. Press the CLK/MEM button once more to save the time and exit clock setting mode.

6.2 Display Dimmer

Press the DIMMER button repeatedly to cycle through different brightness levels for the display (High, Medium, Low, Off).

6.3 Setting Alarms (Alarm 1 and Alarm 2)

You can set two independent alarms. The procedure is similar for both.

1. To Set Alarm 1: Press and hold the AL1 VOL+ button until the alarm time flashes.
2. Use the + or - tuning buttons to adjust the alarm hour. Observe the PM indicator.
3. Press AL1 VOL+ again. The minute digits will flash.
4. Use the + or - tuning buttons to adjust the alarm minutes.
5. Press AL1 VOL+ again to select the alarm source: Buzzer or Radio. The corresponding indicator (Buzzer or Radio) will light up.
6. If Radio is selected, use the + or - tuning buttons to set the desired wake-up volume.
7. Press AL1 VOL+ one last time to save Alarm 1 settings. The AL1 indicator will remain lit.
8. To Set Alarm 2: Follow the same steps using the AL2 VOL- button.

6.4 Snooze Function

When an alarm sounds, press the SNOOZE/SLEEP button to temporarily silence it. The alarm will sound again after approximately 9 minutes. You can repeat this several times.

6.5 Turning Off Alarms

• To turn off the current alarm: Press the SOURCE/AL OFF button. The alarm will be reset for the next day.
• To disable an alarm permanently: Press the corresponding alarm button (AL1 VOL+ or AL2 VOL-) repeatedly until the AL1 or AL2 indicator light turns off.

6.6 Radio Operation (AM/FM/Weather Band)

1. Press the SOURCE/AL OFF button repeatedly to cycle through radio bands: FM, AM, NOAA, AUX.
2. Manual Tuning: Use the + or - tuning buttons to adjust the frequency step by step.
3. Auto Scan Tuning: Press and hold the + or - tuning buttons for a few seconds. The radio will automatically scan and stop at the next strong station.

6.7 Saving and Recalling Radio Presets

You can store your favorite radio stations for quick access.

1. Tune to the desired station (AM or FM).
2. Press and hold the CLK/MEM button until "P01" (or the next available preset number) flashes on the display.
3. Use the + or - tuning buttons to select the desired preset number (P01-P10).
4. Press CLK/MEM again to save the station to the selected preset.
5. To Recall Presets: In radio mode, briefly press the CLK/MEM button repeatedly to cycle through your saved presets.

6.8 NOAA Weather Alerts

The RCA RCDW10 is equipped to receive NOAA Weather Alerts, providing critical information during severe weather events.

• When the unit is in NOAA Weather Band mode (selected via SOURCE/AL OFF button), it continuously monitors for weather alerts.
• Upon receiving an alert, the unit will sound an alarm and display the NOAA indicator.
• The alert system is designed to provide timely warnings for various natural disasters, including tornadoes, hurricanes, heavy rain/flooding, and earthquakes.
• Ensure the antenna is fully extended for best reception of NOAA broadcasts.

6.9 Sleep Timer

The sleep timer allows you to fall asleep to the radio, which will automatically turn off after a set period.

1. While the radio is playing, press the SNOOZE/SLEEP button repeatedly to cycle through sleep timer options (e.g., 90, 60, 30, 15 minutes, OFF).
2. The radio will play for the selected duration and then automatically turn off.

6.10 AUX Input

Connect an external audio device (e.g., MP3 player, smartphone) to the AUX IN jack on the back of the unit using a 3.5mm audio cable (not included).

1. Press the SOURCE/AL OFF button until "AUX" appears on the display.
2. Play audio from your connected device. The sound will be output through the clock radio's speaker.
3. Adjust the volume using the volume controls on your external device and the clock radio.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Battery Replacement: Replace the 9V backup battery annually or when the battery low indicator appears (if applicable) to ensure settings are retained during power outages.
• Storage: If storing the unit for an extended period, remove the 9V backup battery to prevent leakage.

8. Troubleshooting

9. Specifications

• Model: RCDW10
• Power Source: AC 120V, 60Hz
• Battery Backup: 1 x 9V battery (not included)
• Radio Bands: AM, FM, NOAA Weather Band
• Display: Digital LED, Dimmable
• Features: Dual Alarms, Snooze, Sleep Timer, AUX Input, NOAA Weather Alerts
• Dimensions: Approximately 5.3 in (W) x 3.2 in (H) x 2.6 in (D) / 13.5 cm (W) x 8.1 cm (H) x 6.6 cm (D)
• Weight: Approximately 399 g

10. Warranty and Support

RCA products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official RCA support website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Please note that specific warranty terms may vary by region and retailer.