BAOFENG BF-33C

BAOFENG BF-33C FRS Two-Way Radio User Manual

Model: BF-33C

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your BAOFENG BF-33C FRS Two-Way Radios. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the devices and retain it for future reference.

Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

  • 3x BAOFENG BF-33C FRS Two-Way Radios
  • 3x 1400mAh Lithium Batteries
  • 3x Belt Clips
  • 3x Lanyards
  • 3x USB-C Charging Cables
Contents of the BAOFENG BF-33C package, showing three walkie talkies in red, yellow, and blue, along with their rechargeable batteries, USB-C charging cables, and lanyards.

Image: Package contents including three BF-33C radios, batteries, belt clips, lanyards, and USB-C cables.

Setup

1. Battery Installation

  1. Ensure the radio is powered off.
  2. Remove the belt clip by pushing the tab and sliding it upwards.
  3. Open the battery compartment cover on the back of the radio.
  4. Insert the provided 1400mAh Lithium Battery into the compartment, ensuring correct polarity. Alternatively, you can use 3x AA batteries (not included) as a backup.
  5. Close the battery compartment cover and reattach the belt clip.
Rear view of the BAOFENG BF-33C walkie talkie with the battery compartment open, showing how to insert either the rechargeable lithium battery or three AA batteries.

Image: Battery compartment showing options for lithium or AA batteries.

2. Charging the Battery

  • Connect the USB-C charging cable to the USB-C port on the side of the radio.
  • Connect the other end of the cable to a standard USB power adapter (not included) or a computer USB port.
  • The battery indicator on the display will show charging status. A full charge typically takes approximately 2 hours.
  • Note: Do not attempt to charge AA batteries if they are inserted. Only charge the provided lithium-ion battery.

Operating Instructions

1. Power On/Off and Volume

  • To power on, press and hold the CALL button until the display lights up.
  • To power off, press and hold the CALL button until the display turns off.
  • Adjust volume using the Up and Down arrow buttons.

2. Channel Selection

  • Press the MENU button once. The channel number will flash.
  • Use the Up or Down arrow buttons to select your desired FRS channel (1-22).
  • Press the MENU button again to confirm the selection.

3. Transmitting and Receiving

  • To transmit, press and hold the PTT (Push-To-Talk) button located 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 privacy code to communicate.

4. Privacy Codes (CTCSS/DCS)

  • Privacy codes help reduce interference from other users on the same channel.
  • Press the MENU button twice. The privacy code setting will flash.
  • Use the Up or Down arrow buttons to select a code (1-155).
  • Press MENU to confirm. All radios in your group must use the same channel and privacy code.

5. VOX (Voice Operated Exchange)

  • VOX allows hands-free transmission. When enabled, the radio transmits automatically when you speak.
  • Press the MENU button three times to access the VOX setting.
  • Use the Up or Down arrow buttons to select a VOX sensitivity level (1-5, 1 being most sensitive). Select OFF to disable.
  • Press MENU to confirm.

6. Dual Watch (DW)

  • Dual Watch allows you to monitor two channels simultaneously.
  • Press the MONI button once to activate Dual Watch. The display will show "DW".
  • To set the second channel, navigate to the channel setting (MENU once), select the desired channel, then press MONI again.
  • The radio will scan both channels and stop on the first one to receive a signal.
  • Press MONI again to exit Dual Watch.
Two children holding walkie talkies, with an overlay showing 'Dw' and a walkie talkie display indicating monitoring of two channels, Channel A and Channel B.

Image: Illustration of the Dual Watch feature, allowing monitoring of two channels.

7. NOAA Weather Channels

  • Your radio includes 12 NOAA weather channels for real-time weather alerts.
  • Press the SCAN button once to activate NOAA weather scan. The radio will scan for active weather alerts.
  • Press SCAN again to exit NOAA weather scan.
BAOFENG BF-33C walkie talkie on a windowsill during a rainstorm, with icons representing various weather phenomena like tornadoes, blizzards, and tsunamis, indicating NOAA weather alert capability.

Image: NOAA weather channel feature for staying informed about hazardous weather.

8. Call Tone

  • Your radio has 10 selectable call tones.
  • Press the MENU button four times to access the Call Tone setting.
  • Use the Up or Down arrow buttons to select a tone (1-10).
  • Press MENU to confirm.
  • To send a call tone, briefly press the CALL button.

9. Flashlight

  • To turn on the built-in flashlight, briefly press the Flashlight button (usually located on the top or side).
  • Press the button again to turn it off.
A child holding a BAOFENG BF-33C walkie talkie in the dark, demonstrating the built-in flashlight feature.

Image: Child using the integrated flashlight feature of the walkie talkie.

10. Emergency Alert (SOS)

  • To activate the emergency alert, press and hold the SOS button (refer to your radio's specific button layout, often combined with another function or a dedicated button).
  • The radio will emit a loud siren sound and transmit an alert signal to other radios on the same channel.
  • Release the button to stop the alert.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning

  • Wipe the radio's surface with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
  • Ensure the USB-C port is free of dust and debris.

2. Battery Care

  • Charge the lithium battery fully before first use.
  • Avoid overcharging or completely draining the battery for optimal lifespan.
  • If storing the radio for an extended period, remove the batteries.

3. Storage

  • Store the radios in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
  • These radios are Not Water Resistant. Avoid exposure to water or high humidity.

Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
No powerBattery low or not installed correctly.Charge the battery or re-install it, ensuring correct polarity.
Cannot communicate with other radiosDifferent channels or privacy codes; out of range.Ensure all radios are on the same channel and privacy code. Move closer to other radios.
Poor audio qualityWeak signal; interference; low battery.Move to an open area; check for obstructions; charge battery.
VOX not workingVOX sensitivity too low or feature disabled.Adjust VOX sensitivity in the menu or enable the feature.

Specifications

FeatureDetail
Model NumberBF-33C
Number of Channels22 FRS Channels
Frequency RangeFRS
Talking Range MaximumUp to 3 Miles (in open areas)
Battery Type1400mAh Lithium Battery (included) or 3x AA Batteries (not included)
ChargingUSB-C
Voltage3.7 Volts
Special Features10 Call Tones, Dual Watch, SOS Alert, VOX, NOAA Weather Channels, Flashlight
Water Resistance LevelNot Water Resistant
Item WeightApprox. 5.3 oz (per radio)
Product Dimensions2.3 x 8.2 x 8.7 inches (packaging)

Warranty and Support

Your BAOFENG BF-33C FRS Two-Way Radios come with an 18 Months Warranty. BAOFENG also provides Lifetime Support for this product.

For technical assistance, warranty claims, or further information, please contact BAOFENG customer service through their official channels or the retailer where the product was purchased.

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