1. Introduction

Figure 1.1: Roberts ORTUSDAB Digital Clock Radio
This image shows the front view of the Roberts ORTUSDAB, a white digital clock radio with a large VA display showing the time and current DAB radio station.
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Roberts ORTUSDAB FM/DAB/DAB+ Digital Clock Radio. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the device to ensure proper functionality and to maximize your user experience. The ORTUSDAB combines a digital clock, FM/DAB/DAB+ radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and dual alarms in a compact design.
2. Safety Information
Observe the following safety precautions to prevent damage to the device or personal injury:
- Do not expose the unit to rain, moisture, or extreme temperatures.
- Ensure proper ventilation; do not block any ventilation openings.
- Use only the power adapter supplied with the unit.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the unit. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- Keep the unit away from strong magnetic fields.
- Clean the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the packaging:
- Roberts ORTUSDAB Digital Clock Radio
- Quick Start Guide
- Power Adapter
4. Product Features
The Roberts ORTUSDAB offers the following key features:
- Digital Clock Radio with DAB/DAB+/FM RDS
- Dual Alarm Radio or Buzzer
- Clear LCD VA Display
- Device Charging via USB
- Bluetooth Connectivity
5. Controls and Connections
Familiarize yourself with the various controls and connection points on your ORTUSDAB unit.

Figure 5.1: Top Panel Controls
This image displays the top panel of the Roberts ORTUSDAB, highlighting the various buttons for volume control, mode selection, preset stations, day/time settings, auto scan, 12/24 hour format, alarm settings, display brightness, and the large snooze button.
Top Panel Buttons:
- Vol. (+/-): Adjusts the volume level.
- Mode: Switches between DAB, FM, and Bluetooth modes.
- Preset (1-5): Stores and recalls radio station presets.
- Day: Sets the day of the week.
- Auto: Initiates an automatic scan for radio stations.
- 12/24: Toggles between 12-hour and 24-hour time display.
- Alarm 1 / Alarm 2: Activates and sets Alarm 1 or Alarm 2.
- Brightness: Adjusts the display brightness.
- Time Set: Enters time setting mode.
- Scan: Manually scans for radio stations (primarily for FM, or re-scan DAB).

Figure 5.2: Rear Panel Connections
This image shows the rear panel of the Roberts ORTUSDAB, featuring the power input port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a USB-A port for device charging.
Rear Panel Connections:
- DC IN: Connect the supplied power adapter here.
- Headphone Jack: For private listening with 3.5mm headphones.
- USB Charging Port: Provides power to charge external devices.
6. Setup
6.1 Initial Power-up
- Connect the supplied power adapter to the "DC IN" port on the rear of the unit.
- Plug the power adapter into a wall socket.
- The unit will power on and automatically attempt to set the time and date via DAB signal.
6.2 Automatic Time and Date Setting
Upon initial power-up, the ORTUSDAB will automatically scan for DAB radio stations and synchronize its clock with the broadcast time. This process may take a few minutes. Ensure the unit is placed in an area with good DAB reception.
6.3 Manual Time and Date Setting (if auto-sync fails)
- Press and hold the Time Set button. The hour display will flash.
- Use the Vol. + or Vol. - buttons to adjust the hour. Press Time Set to confirm.
- Repeat for minutes, year, month, and day.
- Press the 12/24 button to switch between 12-hour and 24-hour format.
7. Operating Instructions
7.1 Radio Operation (DAB/DAB+/FM)
- Select Mode: Press the Mode button to cycle between DAB and FM radio modes.
- Auto Scan (DAB): In DAB mode, press the Auto button to perform a full scan for available DAB/DAB+ stations. The radio will store all found stations.
- Manual Scan (FM): In FM mode, press the Scan button to search for the next available FM station.
- Tune Stations: Use the Up/Down arrow buttons (located on the right side of the top panel) to navigate through available stations (DAB) or fine-tune frequency (FM).
- Set Presets: To store a station, tune to the desired station, then press and hold one of the Preset (1-5) buttons until "Preset Stored" appears. To recall a preset, briefly press the corresponding Preset button.
- Adjust Volume: Use the Vol. + or Vol. - buttons.
7.2 Bluetooth Operation
- Enter Bluetooth Mode: Press the Mode button until "Bluetooth" is displayed. The unit will enter pairing mode, indicated by a flashing Bluetooth icon.
- Pairing: On your Bluetooth-enabled device (e.g., smartphone), search for "ORTUSDAB" in the Bluetooth settings and select it to pair.
- Playback: Once paired, you can play audio from your device through the ORTUSDAB. Use your device or the ORTUSDAB's volume controls.
7.3 Setting Alarms
The ORTUSDAB features two independent alarms.
- Select Alarm: Press and hold either the Alarm 1 or Alarm 2 button. The alarm time will flash.
- Set Alarm Time: Use the Vol. + or Vol. - buttons to adjust the hour, then press the Alarm button to confirm. Repeat for minutes.
- Set Alarm Source: Choose between "Buzzer", "DAB", or "FM" using the Vol. + or Vol. - buttons. Confirm with the Alarm button. If DAB/FM is selected, you may need to select a preset station.
- Set Alarm Volume: Adjust the alarm volume using Vol. + or Vol. -. Confirm with the Alarm button.
- Activate/Deactivate Alarm: Briefly press the Alarm 1 or Alarm 2 button to toggle the alarm on or off. An alarm icon will appear on the display when active.
- Snooze: When an alarm sounds, press the Snooze button to temporarily silence it for a set period.
- Stop Alarm: To turn off an alarm completely, press any button other than Snooze.
7.4 Display Settings
- Brightness: Press the Brightness button (represented by a sun icon) to cycle through different display brightness levels. The unit also features an automatic dimmer based on ambient light.
8. Maintenance
8.1 Cleaning
To clean the unit, gently wipe the surfaces with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents as these can damage the finish. Ensure the unit is unplugged before cleaning.
8.2 Antenna Care
The ORTUSDAB uses an internal antenna. For optimal reception, ensure the unit is placed in an open area, away from large metal objects or other electronic devices that may cause interference.
9. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Power adapter not connected or faulty. | Ensure the power adapter is securely connected to the unit and a working wall socket. |
| Poor radio reception | Weak signal, interference, or incorrect antenna position. | Relocate the unit to an area with better signal. Avoid placing near other electronic devices. Perform an auto scan for DAB stations. |
| Bluetooth device not pairing | ORTUSDAB not in pairing mode, or device too far. | Ensure the ORTUSDAB is in Bluetooth mode and flashing. Move your device closer to the unit. Try unpairing and re-pairing. |
| Alarm not sounding | Alarm not activated, volume too low, or incorrect time set. | Verify the alarm icon is displayed. Check alarm volume settings. Confirm the alarm time is correctly set. |
| Display is too dim/bright | Brightness setting needs adjustment. | Press the Brightness button to cycle through different levels. |
10. Specifications

Figure 10.1: Product Dimensions
This image illustrates the compact dimensions of the Roberts ORTUSDAB, measuring approximately 13.4 cm in width, 13.7 cm in depth, and 5.2 cm in height.
- Model: ORTUSDAB
- Radio Tuner: DAB/DAB+/FM RDS
- Display: Large LCD VA Display
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB Charging Port
- Alarms: Dual Alarms (Buzzer/Radio)
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Product Dimensions: 13.4 cm (W) x 5.2 cm (H) x 3.81 cm (D) (approx. 320 g)
- Manufacturer: ROBERTS
- Material: Plastic
- Colour: White
11. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Roberts website. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
Roberts Website: www.robertsradio.com







