ZHIWHIS DIY Wooden AM/FM Radio Kit

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the ZHIWHIS DIY Wooden AM/FM Radio Kit. This kit provides an engaging and educational experience for assembling your own functional radio without the need for tools or soldering. Designed for both children and adults, this manual will guide you through the assembly process, operation, and care of your new radio.

2. Safety Information

• Small Parts Warning: This kit contains small parts that could be a choking hazard for young children. Adult supervision is recommended during assembly.
• Battery Safety: Use only the specified battery type (3x AA 1.5V batteries). Do not mix old and new batteries, or different types of batteries. Ensure correct polarity (+/-) when inserting batteries. Remove batteries if the radio will not be used for an extended period.
• Handle with Care: The wooden components are precisely cut but can be delicate. Avoid excessive force during assembly to prevent breakage.
• Electrical Components: While no soldering is required, handle the circuit board and wires carefully to avoid damage.

3. Package Contents

Before beginning assembly, please verify that all components listed below are present in your kit:

• 6 x DIY Wooden Boards (pre-cut panels for the radio casing)
• 1 x Printed Circuit Board (PCB) with integrated antenna
• 1 x Speaker
• 1 x Battery Compartment (for 3x AA batteries)
• 1 x User's Manual (this document)
• 1 x USB Cable (for DC4.5V external power input)

Figure 3.1: Exploded view of all components included in the ZHIWHIS DIY Wooden Radio Kit.

4. Assembly Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to assemble your ZHIWHIS DIY Wooden Radio. No tools or soldering are required.

Step-by-Step Assembly:

1. Prepare Wooden Panels: Carefully detach all wooden pieces from their frames. Identify the front panel (with speaker grille and knob holes), side panels, top, bottom, and back panels.
2. Assemble Inner Frame: Begin by interlocking the smaller wooden pieces that form the internal structure where the speaker, battery case, and PCB will be mounted. Refer to the included diagram for correct orientation.
3. Install Speaker: Place the speaker into its designated slot within the assembled inner frame. Ensure it is securely seated.
4. Install Battery Compartment: Insert the battery compartment into its designated area in the wooden frame.
5. Connect Speaker to PCB: Locate the speaker's connecting cable. Insert the speaker cable into the corresponding port on the Printed Circuit Board (PCB).
6. Connect Battery Case to PCB: Locate the battery compartment's connecting cable. Insert the battery cable into the corresponding port on the PCB.
7. Secure PCB: Carefully place the PCB into its position within the wooden frame, ensuring all connections are secure and the telescopic antenna is correctly oriented to extend upwards through the top panel.
8. Assemble Outer Casing: Begin attaching the main wooden panels (sides, top, bottom) around the internal components. The panels are designed to interlock. Work systematically to ensure a snug fit.
9. Attach Knobs: Once the main casing is assembled, attach the rotary knobs to the shafts protruding from the front panel for volume and tuning control.
10. Insert Batteries: Open the battery compartment and insert 3 AA 1.5V batteries, observing the correct polarity.
11. Close Back Panel: Securely attach the back wooden panel to complete the radio casing.

Figure 4.2: Hands assembling the internal electronic components into the wooden frame.

Figure 4.3: Installation of the battery compartment within the radio's wooden casing.

5. Operating Instructions

Once assembled, your ZHIWHIS DIY Radio is ready for use. Familiarize yourself with its simple controls:

• Power On/Off and Volume: The bottom knob on the front panel controls both power and volume. Turn the knob clockwise to turn the radio ON and increase the volume. Turn counter-clockwise to decrease volume and turn OFF. A red LED indicator will light up when the radio is on.
• Tuning: The top knob on the front panel is for tuning. Rotate this knob to scan for AM or FM radio stations.
• AM/FM Band Switch: On the side of the radio, there is a small switch to select between AM and FM bands. Slide it to your desired band.
• Telescopic Antenna: For optimal FM reception, extend the 17-inch telescopic antenna fully. Adjust its position for the clearest signal. AM reception typically uses an internal antenna and may not require the telescopic antenna.
• AUX-IN Jack: A 3.5mm AUX-IN jack is located on the side of the radio, allowing you to connect external audio devices.
• DC4.5V Jack: A DC4.5V jack is available for external power input using the provided USB cable.

Figure 5.1: Operating the radio: adjusting the telescopic antenna and tuning knob.

Figure 5.2: Detailed view of the radio's controls and ports, including antenna, knobs, and AUX-IN jack.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wipe the wooden casing with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using liquid cleaners or abrasive materials, which can damage the wood.
• Storage: Store the radio in a dry environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, to prevent warping or damage to the wooden components.
• Battery Replacement: Replace all three AA batteries when the sound becomes weak or the power indicator light dims.

7. Troubleshooting

• No Power:
  • Check if batteries are inserted correctly with proper polarity.
  • Ensure batteries are not depleted; replace if necessary.
  • Verify the volume/power knob is turned ON.
• No Sound or Weak Sound:
  • Increase the volume.
  • Ensure the speaker cable is securely connected to the PCB.
  • Check battery level.
• Poor Reception/Static:
  • For FM, fully extend and adjust the telescopic antenna.
  • Try moving the radio to a different location, away from electronic devices that may cause interference.
  • Switch between AM and FM bands to ensure the correct band is selected for the station you are trying to tune.
  • Fine-tune the tuning knob slowly.
• Wooden Panels Not Fitting:
  • Ensure all internal components are correctly seated and not obstructing the panels.
  • Apply gentle, even pressure. Avoid forcing pieces, which can cause damage.

8. Specifications

Figure 8.1: Dimensions of the assembled ZHIWHIS DIY Wooden Radio.

9. Warranty and Support

Warranty Information:

This ZHIWHIS product is covered under a warranty for a period of 12 months from the date of retail purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and ensures the product functions as intended under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Customer Support:

If you encounter any issues during assembly or operation, or if you have questions about your ZHIWHIS DIY Wooden Radio Kit, please contact our customer support team. For assembly assistance, an operation video is available upon request via email.

Email: support@zhiwhis.com