1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your REI ST-5050 Short Chassis AM/FM/BT/USB/PA Radio. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure proper operation and to prevent damage.
The REI ST-5050 is a versatile audio receiver designed for vehicle applications, featuring AM/FM/Weather Band radio, Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming and hands-free calling, USB playback with charging capabilities, and an integrated Public Address (PA) system.
2. Safety Information
- Installation: Professional installation is recommended to ensure correct wiring and prevent damage to the unit or vehicle's electrical system.
- Power Supply: Ensure the unit is connected to a 12V DC power supply with proper grounding. Incorrect voltage can cause damage.
- Operation: Do not operate the unit in a manner that distracts you from driving. Always prioritize road safety.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Temperature: Avoid exposing the unit to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
3. Product Overview
The following image illustrates the front panel controls and display of the REI ST-5050 radio.
Figure 3.1: Front Panel of the REI ST-5050 Radio. This image displays the radio's faceplate, featuring a central LCD screen, a large rotary volume/selection knob on the left, and various push buttons for functions such as power, mute, scan, seek, band, setup, call, source, and auxiliary input. The display shows 'FM1 CH6 RDS ST 105.9' and a clock '8:23'.
Front Panel Controls:
- Power/Mute Button: Press to turn the unit on/off. Press briefly to mute/unmute audio.
- VOL/SEL Knob: Rotate to adjust volume. Press to enter selection mode for menu options.
- SCN (Scan) Button: Scans through radio stations or tracks.
- SEEK Buttons (►►| / |◄◄): Used for seeking radio stations or navigating tracks.
- BND (Band) Button: Switches between AM, FM, and Weather Band radio frequencies.
- SETUP Button: Accesses the system settings menu.
- Preset Buttons (1-6): Store and recall radio stations. Also used for specific functions in other modes (e.g., RPT, RDM, INT, FLD).
- CALL Button (☎): Initiates or answers a Bluetooth phone call.
- END/DIS Button (☎ with slash): Ends a Bluetooth phone call or disconnects Bluetooth.
- SRC (Source) Button: Selects the audio source (AM/FM, Bluetooth, USB, AUX).
- AUX Input: 3.5mm jack for connecting external audio devices.
4. Setup
4.1. Installation
The REI ST-5050 features a short chassis design and uses an ISO chassis connector for simplified installation. It is recommended to have the unit installed by a qualified technician to ensure proper wiring and functionality. Refer to the wiring diagram provided with the unit for specific connections.
- Power Connection: Connect the yellow wire to constant 12V power, the red wire to switched 12V power, and the black wire to ground.
- Speaker Connections: Connect speaker wires to the appropriate outputs, ensuring correct polarity. The unit supports 50 Watts x 4 channels.
- Antenna: Connect the AM/FM antenna.
- PA System: Connect dynamic or carbon microphones to the dedicated PA inputs.
- Rear RCS Audio Input: For additional audio sources, connect to the rear RCA input jacks.
4.2. Initial Power On
After installation, press the Power button (Ⓟ) to turn on the unit. The display will illuminate, and the unit will typically start in the last used audio source mode.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Basic Operation
- Power On/Off: Press the Power button (Ⓟ).
- Volume Control: Rotate the VOL/SEL knob clockwise to increase volume, counter-clockwise to decrease.
- Mute: Briefly press the MUTE button to mute or unmute the audio.
- Source Selection: Press the SRC button repeatedly to cycle through available audio sources: AM, FM, WB, Bluetooth, USB, AUX.
5.2. Radio Operation (AM/FM/WB)
- Band Selection: In radio mode, press the BND button to switch between FM1, FM2, FM3, AM1, AM2, and Weather Band (WB).
- Manual Tuning: Briefly press the SEEK buttons (►►| / |◄◄) to adjust the frequency step by step.
- Auto Seek: Press and hold the SEEK buttons (►►| / |◄◄) to automatically search for the next strong station.
- Preset Stations: To store a station, tune to the desired frequency, then press and hold one of the Preset Buttons (1-6) until you hear a beep. To recall a stored station, briefly press the corresponding Preset Button. The unit stores 12 AM, 18 FM, and 7 WB presets.
- RDS (Radio Data System): When available, RDS text information (station name, song title, etc.) will be displayed.
5.3. Bluetooth Operation
The unit supports Bluetooth for audio streaming and hands-free calling.
- Pairing:
- Select Bluetooth as the source using the SRC button.
- On your mobile device, enable Bluetooth and search for available devices.
- Select "REI ST-5050" from the list. If prompted for a passcode, enter "0000".
- Once paired, the unit will display a confirmation message.
- Hands-Free Calling:
- Answer Call: Press the CALL button (☎).
- End Call: Press the END/DIS button (☎ with slash).
- Make Call: Initiate the call from your paired phone. Audio will automatically transfer to the radio.
- Audio Streaming: Once paired, audio from your mobile device will stream wirelessly to the radio. Use the SEEK buttons to skip tracks.
5.4. USB Operation
The unit features a rear Type-A USB input for MP3/WMA playback and cellphone charging.
- Connecting USB: Insert a USB flash drive into the rear USB port. The unit will automatically switch to USB mode or can be selected via the SRC button.
- Playback: The unit will automatically begin playing compatible MP3/WMA files. Use the SEEK buttons to navigate tracks. Preset buttons 1-6 may offer functions like Repeat (RPT), Random (RDM), Intro (INT), and Folder navigation (FLD).
- Cellphone Charging: When a compatible device is connected via USB, it will charge in USB mode.
5.5. Auxiliary Input (AUX)
Connect external audio devices (e.g., MP3 players, portable media players) to the 3.5mm AUX input on the front panel or the Rear RCS audio input jack using an appropriate cable. Select AUX as the source using the SRC button.
5.6. Public Address (PA) System
The integrated PA system allows for announcements through connected speakers.
- Microphone Connection: Connect a dynamic or carbon microphone to the designated PA input.
- Activation: Refer to the unit's specific PA activation method, typically a dedicated button or menu option.
- Zone Output: The PA system features adjustable zone output for both front and rear speakers. Adjust this setting in the SETUP menu.
5.7. Settings (SETUP)
Press the SETUP button to access the system settings menu. Use the VOL/SEL knob to navigate through options and adjust values. Settings may include:
- Audio adjustments (Bass, Treble, Balance, Fader)
- Clock settings
- PA zone output adjustment
- Display brightness
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the front panel with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or sprays.
- Battery Backup: The unit includes a 10-year coin cell battery backup to retain clock and preset station memory during power loss. No user maintenance is typically required for this battery.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Incorrect wiring; Blown fuse; Vehicle power issue | Check power connections (yellow, red, black wires). Inspect vehicle fuses. Consult a technician. |
| No sound | Volume too low; Mute activated; Incorrect source; Speaker wiring issue | Increase volume. Deactivate mute. Select correct source. Check speaker connections. |
| Poor radio reception | Antenna not connected; Weak signal area; Damaged antenna | Ensure antenna is securely connected. Try tuning to a stronger station. Inspect antenna for damage. |
| Bluetooth not pairing | Bluetooth not enabled on device; Device too far; Incorrect pairing procedure | Ensure Bluetooth is on and discoverable on your device. Bring device closer. Follow pairing instructions in Section 5.3. |
| USB not playing | Incompatible file format; USB drive not recognized; Damaged USB drive | Ensure files are MP3/WMA. Try a different USB drive. Check USB port for damage. |
8. Specifications
- Model: REI ST-5050
- Chassis Type: Short Chassis
- Radio Bands: AM/FM/Weather Band (WB)
- Audio Playback: MP3/WMA
- Connectivity: Bluetooth (BT), USB (Rear Type-A), Auxiliary Input (Front 3.5mm, Rear RCS)
- USB Features: MP3/WMA playback, Cellphone charge port
- Bluetooth Features: Audio streaming, Hands-Free Calling
- PA System: Integrated, Dynamic and Carbon microphone PA inputs, Adjustable PA zone output (front/rear)
- Chassis Connector: ISO
- Preset Stations: 12 AM / 18 FM / 7 WB (stored during power loss)
- Display: Clock and backup, RDS text (where available)
- Battery Backup: 10 Year Coin Cell Battery Backup for memory retention
- Power Rating: 50 Watt x 4
- Radio Face Dimensions: 7.40" (W) x 2.28" (H)
9. Warranty and Support
This product is covered by a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase for specific terms and conditions. For technical support, service, or warranty claims, please contact your authorized dealer or the manufacturer's customer service department.
Manufacturer: RepairPart
Model Number: XS-11Y8Z396
For further assistance, please visit the official product support website or contact customer service through the details provided at the point of purchase.
