PREFACE

Thank you for purchasing the UV-17 Series Amateur Radio, a Dual band/Dual display/Dual watch device. This easy-to-use radio is designed to deliver secure, instant, and reliable communications at peak efficiency. Please read this manual carefully before use to derive maximum performance from your radio.

This manual is applicable to the following products: UV-17R, BF-17R Series Amateur Radios.

WARNING: MODIFICATION OF THIS DEVICE TO RECEIVE CELLULAR RADIOTELEPHONE SERVICE SIGNALS IS PROHIBITED UNDER FCC RULES AND FEDERAL LAW.

ATTENTION! When programming the radio, start by reading the factory software data, then rewrite this data with your frequency settings etc., to a new saved code plug; otherwise, errors may occur. A programming cable with a PC can be used to program authorized frequency, bandwidth, power, etc. Your programming must comply with your FCC (or EU other country) license certification.

ATTENTION! Before using this product, read the RF Energy Exposure and Product Safety Guide that ships with the radio. This guide contains instructions for safe usage and RF energy awareness and control for compliance with applicable standards and regulations.

FRS, GMRS, MURS, PMR446

Users may be tempted to use FRS, GMRS, MURS (in the USA) or PMR446 (in Europe) frequencies. However, there are restrictions on these bands that make this transceiver illegal for use.

Table of Contents

• Chapter 1. Getting Started
  • 1.1 Regulations and Safety Warnings
  • 1.2 Content of the packaging
  • 1.3 Main features
• Chapter 2. Charging the Battery
  • 2.1 Charging the Battery Pack
  • 2.2 Charger Supplied
  • 2.4 How to Charge
  • 2.5 LED Indicator
  • 2.6 How to Store the Battery
• Chapter 3. Installation of Accessories
  • 3.1 Installing / Removing the Antenna
  • 3.2 Installing the belt clip
  • 3.3 Installing the battery pack
  • 3.4 Additional Speaker/Microphone (Optional)
• Chapter 4. Radio Overview
  • 4.1 Buttons and controls of the radio
  • 4.2 LCD Display
  • 4.3 Status Indications
  • 4.4 Main keypad controls
• Chapter 5. Basic Operations
  • 5.1 Power on the radio
  • 5.2 Adjusting the volume
  • 5.3 Main Band/Sub Band Select
  • 5.4 VFO/Channel Switch
  • 5.5 Frequency (VFO) mode
  • 5.6 Channel (MR) mode
  • 5.7 Making a call
  • 5.10 FM Radio (FM)
  • 5.15 One touch frequency Search
  • 5.16 Weather Radio/Scan Weather Channel
• Chapter 6. Advanced Features
  • 6.1 Working the menu system
  • 6.2 Scanning
  • 6.3 Manual Programming
  • 6.4 Repeaters Programming
  • 6.5 VOX
  • 6.6 Dual Watch
  • 6.7 Stopwatch timer
  • 6.8 DTMF
  • 6.9 Customization
  • 6.10 Reset
• Appendix A. - Trouble shooting guide
• Appendix B. - Shortcut Menu operations
• Appendix C. - Technical Specifications

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.1 Regulations and Safety Warnings

FCC Regulatory Conformance

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates and can radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, it may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. Verification of harmful interference by this equipment to radio or television reception can be determined by turning it off and then on. The user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference.

WARNING! MODIFICATION OF THIS DEVICE TO RECEIVE CELLULAR RADIOTELEPHONE SERVICE SIGNALS IS PROHIBITED UNDER FCC RULES AND FEDERAL LAW.

Compliance with RF Exposure Standards

The radio complies with the following RF energy exposure standards and guidelines:

• United States Federal Communications Commission, Code of Federal Regulations; 47 CFR § 1.1307, 1.1310 and 2.1093
• American National Standards Institute (ANSI) / Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) C95.1:2005; Canada RSS102 Issue 5 March 2015
• Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) C95.1:2005 Edition

RF Exposure Compliance and Control

Guidelines and Operating Instructions

To control your exposure and ensure compliance with the occupational/controlled environmental exposure limits, always adhere to the following procedures.

Guidelines:

• Do not remove the RF Exposure Label from the device.
• User awareness instructions should accompany the device when transferred to other users.
• Do not use this device if the operational requirements described herein are unmet.

Operating Instructions:

• Transmit no more than the rated duty factor 50% of the time. To transmit (talk), press the Push-to-Talk (PTT) key. To receive calls, release the [PTT] key. Transmitting 50% of the time, or less, is important because the radio generates measurable RF energy only when transmitting (in terms of measuring for standards compliance).
• Keep the radio unit at least 2.5cm away from the face. Keeping the radio at the proper distance is important as RF exposure decreases with distance from the antenna. The antenna should be kept away from the face and eyes.
• When worn on the body, always place the radio in an approved holder, holster, case, or body harness or by use of the correct clip for this product. Use of non-approved accessories may result in exposure levels that exceed the FCC's occupational/controlled environmental RF limits.
• Use of non-approved antennas, batteries, and accessories causes the radio to exceed the FCC RF exposure guidelines.
• Contact your local dealer for the product's optional accessories.

Precautions for Portable Terminals

Operating Prohibitions

To protect against property loss, bodily injury, or even death, be sure to observe the following safety instructions:

1. Do not operate the product in a location containing fuels, chemicals, explosive atmospheres, and other flammable or explosive materials. In such locations, only an approved Ex-protection model is allowed for use, and any attempt to assemble or disassemble it is strictly prohibited.
2. Do not operate the product near or in any blasting area.
3. Do not operate the product near any medical or electronic equipment vulnerable to RF signals.
4. Do not hold the product while driving.
5. Do not operate the product in any area where wireless communication equipment is completely prohibited.

Important Tips

To help make better use of the product, be sure to observe the following instructions:

1. Do not use any unauthorized or damaged accessories.
2. Keep the product at least 2.5 centimeters away from your body during transmission.
3. Do not keep the product receiving at high volume for a long time.
4. For vehicles with an airbag, do not place the product in the area over the airbag or in the airbag deployment area.
5. Keep the product and its accessories out of reach of children and pets.
6. Please operate the product within the specified temperature range.
7. Continuous transmission for a long time may lead to heat accumulation within the product. In this case, keep it at a proper location for cooling.
8. Handle the product with care.
9. Do not disassemble, modify, or repair the product and its accessories without authorization.

Precautions for Batteries

Charging Prohibitions

To protect against property loss, bodily injury, or even death, be sure to observe the following safety instructions:

1. Do not charge or replace your battery in a location containing fuels, chemicals, explosive atmospheres, and other flammable or explosive materials.
2. Do not charge your battery if it is wet. Please dry it with a soft and clean cloth prior to charging.
3. Do not charge your battery if it is suffering deformation, leakage, or overheating.
4. Do not charge your battery with an unauthorized charger.
5. Do not charge your battery in a location where strong radiation is present.
6. Overcharge shall always be prohibited as it may shorten the life of your battery.

Maintenance Instructions

To help your battery work normally or prolong its life, be sure to observe the following instructions:

1. Accumulated dust on the charging connector may affect normal charging. Please use a clean and dry cloth to wipe it on a regular basis.
2. It is recommended to charge the battery under 5℃~40℃ (40°F - 105°F). Violation of this limit may cause battery life reduction or even battery leakage.
3. To charge a battery attached to the product, turn it off to ensure a full charge.
4. Do not remove the battery or unplug the power cord during charging to ensure a smooth charging process.
5. Do not dispose of the battery in fire.
6. Do not expose the battery to direct sunlight for a long time nor place it close to other heating sources.
7. Do not squeeze and penetrate the battery, nor remove its housing.

Transportation Instructions

1. Damaged batteries must not be transported.
2. To avoid short circuit, separate the battery from metal parts or from each other if two or more batteries are transported in one packaging.
3. The radio must be switched off and secured against switch-on if the battery is attached.

The content of the shipment must be declared in the shipping documents and by a Battery Shipping Label on the packaging. Contact your hauler for the local regulations and further information.

1.2 Content of the packaging

• 1 Radio
• 1 Fast desktop charger
• 1 Antenna
• 1 Li-Ion battery pack
• 1 Belt clip

If any item is missing, please verify with your dealer.

1.3 Main features

• One touch search frequency, easy pairing and grouping (copying channel configuration parameters)
• Frequency step, selectable between 2.5K | 5.0K | 6.25K | 10.0K | 12.5K | 20.0K | 25.0K | 50.0K
• Frequency hopping to keep your call privacy confidential
• 1.77" TFT large screen, full keyboard, fully open menu operation
• Channel scan, frequency scan, and three scan and recovery methods: TO, CO, and SE
• Up to 999 memory channels.
• Power-on password management function
• DTMF encoder and DTMF manual dial
• VOX (voice activated transmit).
• Alarm function.
• High or low power selectable.
• Programmable repeater offset.
• Transmission time-out timer.
• LED flashlight.
• End of transmission tone, also known as "Roger Beep"
• Broadcast FM radio receiver 65-108 MHz
• Dual watch / Dual reception/ Dual-band handheld transceiver
• High Capacity Lithium-Ion battery.
• Stopwatch function
• Display illumination programmable via keypad.
• Function beep on the keyboard.
• Battery save function.
• Busy channel lock out.
• Ten (10) levels of Squelch adjustment.
• Two (2) pins for Kenwood accessory port
• Support NOAA weather reception function in the United States and Canada

Chapter 2. Charging the Battery

2.1 Charging the Battery Pack

The Li-ion battery pack is not charged at the factory; please charge it before use. Charging the battery pack for the first time after purchase or extended storage (more than 2 months) may not bring the battery pack to its normal maximum operating capacity. Best operation will require fully charging/discharging the battery two or three times before the operating capacity will reach its best performance. The battery pack life may be depleted when its operating time decreases even though it has been fully and correctly charged. If this is the case, replace the battery pack.

2.2 Charger Supplied

Please use the specified charger provided by the company. Other models may cause explosion and personal injury. After installing the battery pack, and if the radio displays low battery with a voice prompt, please charge the battery.

2.3 Use Caution with the Li-ion Battery

1. Do not short the battery terminals or throw the battery into a fire. Never attempt to remove the casing from the battery pack, as the company cannot be held responsible for any accident caused by modifying the battery.
2. The ambient temperature should be between 5℃-40℃ (40°F - 105°F) while charging the battery. Charging outside this range may not fully charge the battery.
3. Please turn off the radio before inserting it into the charger. It may otherwise interfere with correct charging.
4. To avoid interfering with the charging cycle, please do not cut off the power or remove the battery during charging until the green light is on.
5. Do not recharge the battery pack if it is fully charged. This may shorten the life of the battery pack or damage the battery pack.
6. Do not charge the battery or the radio if it is damp. Dry it before charging to avoid damage.

WARNING!

When keys, ornamental chains, or other electric metals contact the battery terminal, the battery may become damaged or injure a human. If the battery terminals are short-circuited, it will generate a lot of heat. Take care when carrying and using the battery. Remember to put the battery or radio into an insulated container. Do not put it into a metal container.

2.4 How to Charge

1. Plug the AC adaptor into the AC outlet, and then plug the cable of the AC adaptor into the DC jack located on the back of the charger. The indicator light blinks orange and is then ready to charge a battery.
2. Plug the battery or the radio into the charger. Make sure the battery terminals are in good contact with the charging terminals. The indicator light turns red, indicating charging has begun.
3. It takes approximately 2-5 hours to fully charge the battery. When the lamp lights green, the charging is completed. Remove the battery or the radio unit with its battery from the socket.

When charging a radio (with battery), the indicating lamp will not turn green to show the fully charged status if the radio is powered on. Only when the radio is switched off will the lamp indicate normal operation. The radio consumes energy when it is powered on, and the charger cannot detect the correct battery voltage when the battery has been fully charged. So the charger will charge the battery in constant voltage mode and fail to indicate correctly when the battery has been fully charged.

2.5 LED Indicator

NOTE: Trouble means battery too warm, battery short-circuited, or charger short-circuited.

2.6 How to Store the Battery

1. If the battery needs to be stored, keep it in a status of 80% discharged.
2. It should be kept in a low temperature and dry environment.
3. Keep it away from hot places and direct sunlight.

Do not short circuit the battery terminals.

Never attempt to remove the casing from the battery pack.

Never store the battery in unsafe surroundings, as a short may cause an explosion.

Do not put the battery in a hot environment or throw it into a fire, as it may cause an explosion.

Useful Tips:

1. Tighten screws fully to prevent loosening and maintain waterproof performance.
2. Ensure buckle is securely placed in seat charger groove (listen for a "click" and no side-to-side movement).

The image shows a two-way radio battery charger with a battery inserted. A close-up highlights the secure placement of the battery buckle in the charger groove, illustrating the two useful tips for maintaining waterproof performance and secure charging.

Chapter 3. Installation of Accessories

Before the radio is ready for use, the battery pack needs to be attached and charged.

3.1 Installing/ Removing the Antenna

1. Installing the Antenna: Screw the antenna into the connector on the top of the transceiver by holding the antenna at its base and turning it clockwise until secure.
2. Removing the Antenna: Turn the antenna counterclockwise to remove it.

3.2 Installing the belt clip

1. At the back of the radio, there are two parallel screws mounted above the battery. Remove these and thread them through the holes on the belt clip as you screw them back into the radio body.
2. Removing the Belt Clip: Unscrew counter-clockwise to remove the belt clip.

3.3 Installing the battery pack

Before attaching or removing the battery, make sure your radio is turned off by turning the power/volume knob all the way counter-clockwise.

1. Make sure the battery is aligned in parallel with the radio body with the lower edge of the battery about 1-2cm below the edge of the radio.
2. Once aligned with the guide rails, slide the battery upward until you hear a click as the battery locks in place.

Remove the battery pack

To remove the battery, press the battery release above the battery pack as you slide the battery downward.

3.4 Installing the Additional Speaker/Microphone (Optional)

Pry open the rubber MIC-Headset jack cover and then insert the Speaker / Microphone plug into the double jack.

Chapter 4. Radio Overview

4.1 Buttons and controls of the radio

Diagram of the radio's front, side, and top views with numbered components:

1. Antenna
2. Flashlight/ Emergency Alert key
3. PTT key (Push-to-Talk)
4. FM broadcast/Monitor key
5. Menu key (MENU)
6. Numeric keypad
7. Power/Volume knob
8. Color LCD
9. Accessory jack
10. MIC Input
11. Exit key (EXIT)
12. Up or Down navigation keys
13. Battery pack
14. Battery tightening screw
15. TX/RX Status LED
16. LED flashlight

4.2 LCD Display

Battery Level Indicator

When the battery level indicator shows a depleted battery symbol (🔋), the battery is depleted. At this point, the radio will start beeping periodically, flash the backlight of the display, and if voice prompts are enabled, a "Low Voltage" announcement will be heard, indicating the need to change your battery or place your radio in the charger.

4.3 Status Indications

The status LED has a very simple and traditional design.

4.4 Main keypad controls

• Side key 1 (Flashlight and Alarm)

  Press [SK1] key momentarily to turn on the LED flashlight. Another momentary press will flash the LED. A third momentary press turns the flashlight off.

  Press and hold [SK1] key to activate the alarm function. Press [SK1] (a short press) again to turn it off.

• Side key 2 (Broadcast FM and Monitor)

  Press [SK2] key momentarily to start the broadcast FM receiver. Another momentary press turns the broadcast FM receiver off. If a signal is received on the active frequency or channel while listening to broadcast FM, the receiver will open squelch to that frequency (as if scanning) and remain there until the signal goes away; it will then switch back to broadcast FM.

  Press and hold [SK2] to monitor the signal. This will open up the squelch so you can listen to the unfiltered signal.

• Menu key (☰)

  This key is used for activating the MENU, choosing each MENU selection, and confirming the parameter.

  In standby mode, press and hold the ☰ key to switch between frequency (VFO) mode and channel (MR) mode.

  To save frequencies to channel memory, you must be in Frequency (VFO) mode. Memory mode is sometimes also referred to as Channel mode.

• Up key (▲)

  Press it for more than 2 seconds, the channel and frequency will move upwards rapidly; in SCAN mode, press this control to move the scanning upwards.

• Down key (▼)

  Keep it pressed for more than 2 seconds, the channel and frequency will move downwards rapidly; in SCAN mode, press this control to move the scanning downwards.

• Exit key (☰)

  Press to exit the Menu and functions. A/B (appears on the display): press to select the desired frequency (VHF or UHF) in the main or secondary display.

  Press and hold the ☰ key to activate the one-touch search function.

• Numeric keypad

  With these keys, you can input information or your selections on the radio. In transmit mode, press the number keys to send a corresponding DTMF code.

• Star * Key

  A short momentary press of the key enables the reverse function.

  If this key is pressed for more than 2 seconds, it will lock/unlock the keypad.

• Pound # Key

  Press the #z key to activate the DTMF dial function.

  Press and hold the #z key to activate the channel scan or frequency scan function.

  In FM radio mode, press the #z key to automatically search for broadcast programs.

• 0 key

  Press and hold the [OsQL] key to activate the NOAA weather forecast reception function.

Chapter 5. Basic Operations

5.1 Power on the radio

Turning the unit on

To turn the unit on, simply rotate the Volume/Power knob clockwise until you hear a "click". If your radio powers on correctly, there should be an audible double beep after about one second, and the display will show a message or flash the LCD depending on settings for about one second. Then it will display a frequency or channel. If the Voice prompt is enabled, the voice will announce "frequency mode" or "channel mode".

Turning the unit off

Turn the Volume/Power knob counter-clockwise all the way until you hear a "click". The unit is now off.

5.2 Adjusting the volume

To turn up the volume, turn the volume/power knob clockwise. To turn the volume down, turn the Volume/Power knob counter-clockwise. Be careful not to turn it too far, as you may inadvertently turn your radio off.

By using the monitor function, enabled from the [FM broadcast/Monitor] key below the PTT, you can more easily adjust your volume by adjusting it to the un-squelched static.

5.3 Main Band/Sub Band Select

In standby mode, press the ☰ key to switch between A (upper) and B (lower) displays. The frequency or channel on the selected display becomes the active listening and transmit frequency or channel.

To save frequencies to channel memory, you must be on the A display.

5.4 VFO/Channel Switch

Press and hold the ☰ key to switch between VFO and channel display.

• In channel mode (MR), the channel number will be displayed on the right.
• In frequency mode (VFO), the 'VFO' will be displayed on the right.

5.5 Frequency (VFO) mode

In Frequency (VFO) mode, you can navigate up and down the band by using the ▲ or ▼ keys. Each press will increment or decrement your frequency according to the frequency step you've set your transceiver to.

You can also input frequencies directly on your numeric keypad with kilohertz accuracy.

The following example assumes the use of a 12.5 kHz frequency step.

Example. Entering the frequency 436.61250 MHz on display A

1. In standby mode, press and hold the ☰ key to switch to the frequency (VFO) mode.
2. Enter [4][3][6][6][1][2][5] [0] on the numeric keypad.

WARNING! Just because you can program in a channel does not mean you're automatically authorized to use that frequency. Transmitting on frequencies you're not authorized to operate on is illegal and in most jurisdictions a serious offense. However, it is legal in most jurisdictions to listen. Contact your local regulatory body for further information on what laws, rules, and regulations apply to your area.

5.6 Channel (MR) Mode and Channel Selection

There are two modes of operation: Frequency (VFO) mode, and Channel or Memory (MR) mode.

For everyday use, Channel (MR) mode is generally more practical than Frequency (VFO) mode. However, Frequency (VFO) mode is very handy for experimentation in the field. Frequency (VFO) mode is also used for programming channels into memory.

In Channel (MR) mode, you can navigate up and down the channel by using the ▲ or ▼ keys or the encoder.

Ultimately, which mode you end up using will depend entirely on your use case.

Press and hold ☰ key to switch the radio between VFO and Channel mode, select Channel mode.

• Operation 1: Press the ▲ or ▼ navigation key to select the channel.
• Operation 2: Input the channel numbers by the keyboard. For example, if you want to switch to channel 12, input [0][1][2] (a total of 3 digits), and it will switch to channel 12.

When the voice prompt function is enabled, the corresponding channel will be broadcast by voice.

5.7 Making a call

NOTE: Press the ☰ key to switch the main channel to the other channel if there are 2 channels shown on the display. In standby mode, press and hold the ☰ key to switch between frequency (VFO) mode and channel (MR) mode.

• Channel mode call: After selecting a channel, hold down the [PTT] key to initiate a call to the current channel. Speak into the microphone with a normal tone. When making a call, the red LED is on.
• Frequency mode call: Press and hold the ☰ key to switch to the frequency mode, input the working frequency within the allowable frequency range, and press and hold the [PTT] key to transmit on the current frequency. Speak into the microphone with a normal tone. When making a call, the red LED is on.
• Receive a call: When you release the [PTT] key, you can answer it without any action. When receiving a call, the green LED is on.

NOTE: To ensure the best reception volume, keep the distance between the microphone and the mouth at the time of transmission from 2.5 cm to 5 cm.

5.8 Using the Flashlight

This radio can be used in an emergency. If you press the ☰ key, the radio turns on the high-intensity LED flashlight on your radio.

• Your radio operates normally when the emergency strobe is activated.

1. Press the ☰ key once, it will turn on continuously (Always On mode).
2. Then, press the ☰ key once, the Strobe Light emits the emergency signal (Strobe emergency mode).
3. Then, press the ☰ key once, the light will be turned off.

5.9 Emergency Alert

The Emergency Alert feature can be used to signal members in your group for help.

To activate the emergency alert function, press and hold the ☰ key for 3 seconds. The radio will send out a loud siren sound and the flashlight will flash.

Press the ☰ key to exit the emergency alert function.

WARNING: The Emergency Alert feature should only be used in the event of an actual emergency.

5.10 FM Radio (FM)

The frequency ranges to listen to the radio are 65-108MHz. When listening to broadcast FM, press the ☰ key to switch between 65-75 MHz and 76-108 MHz band.

1. In frequency or channel mode, Press [SK2] key to turn on the radio.
2. Select the desired radio frequency with the ▲ or ▼ keys or input the frequency. Or

• Press #z to automatically search a radio station.

3. Press [SK2] key to exit FM radio.

Note: While listening to the radio, the frequency or channel of A / B receiving signal will automatically switch to the frequency or channel mode for normal transmitting and receiving. When the signal disappears, the radio will automatically switch again to FM radio mode.

5.11 Monitor

In standby, press and hold the [SK2] key to enter Monitor. When receiving a matched carrier but the signaling or the signal is too weak, this function allows monitoring the weak signal.

Stop pressing the [SK2] key to turn off the speakers and return to standby mode.

If no signal, it will emit noise when pressing the [SK2] Key.

5.12 Keypad lock

The radio features a keypad lock that locks out all keys except for the three side keys.

To enable or disable the keypad lock, press and hold the * key for about two seconds.

You can also enable the radio to automatically lock the keypad after ten seconds from the menu.

5.13 Frequency reversal

A short momentary press of the * key enables the reverse function.

If you for some reason want to listen to the repeater's input frequency instead, press the * key momentarily and you'll reverse your transmit and receive frequencies.

After activating the frequency reversal function, the first line of the screen displays "R".

5.14 TX Repeaters tone

Press [PTT] + ☰ key to send a 1750Hz repeaters tone. This function is useful for communications through repeaters.

If you have the keypad lock enabled on your radio, you can still send a 1750Hz tone the regular way without having to unlock your radio.

5.15 One touch frequency Search

1. The radio will act as a receiver. Press and hold the ☰ key, and the screen will display "SEARCH SEARCH..."
2. If the transmitter continues to transmit and the unit receives an effective frequency (the strongest and most stable signal), the received frequency will be displayed. If there is a CTCSS or DCS, the CTCSS or DCS value is displayed, and if there is no CTCSS or DCS, NONE is displayed.

Screen captures show 'SEARCH UHF' and 'SEARCH...' with frequencies 144.12500 and 435.12500 MHz displayed, indicating search in progress and a found frequency.

3. You can press the ☰ key to save the Search frequency and CTCSS or DCS to the channel.

Note: During frequency Search, press the #z key on the radio to switch between UHF or VHF bands.

5.16 Weather Radio/Scan Weather Channel

Your radio has a NOAA Weather Radio function, enabling the user to receive weather reports from designated NOAA stations. Your radio also has a NOAA Weather Scan function, enabling the user to scan all 10 channels of the NOAA Weather Radio.

1. To turn the NOAA Weather Scan on, press and hold the [OsQL] key for 3 seconds, a cloud icon appears. The radio will go to Weather band mode.
2. Press and hold the #z key for 3 seconds to start automatic scanning of all 10 channels and stop on active channels. Pressing and holding the #z key for 3 seconds during a NOAA weather scan will stop the scan.
3. After stopping NOAA weather scan, it is allowed to manually select the weather channel by pressing the ▲ or ▼ key.
4. To exit the Weather Radio broadcast mode, press the ☰ key or [PTT] key.

Weather channel frequencies and names

NOTE: Weather Channels Wx 1 Thru 10 are Receive-only channels for NOAA and Canadian weather broadcasts. You cannot transmit on these channels.

Chapter 6. Advanced Features

6.1 Working the menu system

For a complete reference on available menu items and parameters, see Appendix B, Menu definitions.

If your radio is set to Memory (MR) mode, the following menu items will not take any effect: STEP, TXP, W/N, CTCSS, DCS, S-CODE, PTT-ID, BCL, SFT-D, OFFSET, MEM-CH.

6.1.1 Basic use

Using the menu with arrow keys

1. Press the ☰ key to enter the menu.
2. Use the ▲ / ▼ keys to navigate between menu items.
3. Once you find the desired menu item, press ☰ again to select that menu item.
4. Use the ▲ / ▼ keys to select the desired parameter.
5. When you've selected the parameter you want to set for a given menu item;
1. To confirm your selection, press ☰ and it will save your setting and bring you back to the main menu.
2. To cancel your changes, press ☰ and it will reset that menu item and bring you out of the menu entirely.
6. To exit out of the menu at any time, press the ☰ key.

6.1.2 Using short-cuts

As you may have noticed if you looked at Appendix B, Menu definitions, every menu item has a numerical value associated with it. These numbers can be used for direct access to any given menu item.

The menu is also organized in such a way that the ten most common functions are on top.

The parameters also have a number associated with them, see Appendix B, Menu definitions for details.

Using the menu with short-cuts

1. Press the ☰ key to enter the menu.
2. Use the numerical keypad to enter the number of the menu item.
3. To enter the menu item, press the ☰ key.
4. For entering the desired parameter you have two options:
1. Use the arrow keys as we did in the previous section; or
2. Use the numerical keypad to enter the numerical short-cut code.
5. And just as in the previous section;
1. To confirm your selection, press ☰ and it will save your setting and bring you back to the main menu.
2. To cancel your changes, press ☰ and it will reset that menu item and bring you out of the menu entirely.
6. To exit out of the menu at any time, press the ☰ key.
7. All further examples and procedures in this manual will use the numerical menu shortcuts.

6.2 Scanning

The Radios feature a built-in scanner for the VHF and UHF bands. When in Frequency (VFO) mode, it will scan in steps according to your set frequency step. In Channel (MR) mode, it will scan your channels. At approximately three frequencies per second, it's not the fastest scanner in the world, but it is nonetheless a useful feature to have at times.

Dual Watch is inhibited while scanning.

To enable the scanner, press and hold the #z key for about two seconds. Press and hold the #z key to exit scanning mode.

6.2.1 Scanning modes

The scanner is configurable to one of three ways of operation: Time, carrier, or search, each of which is explained in further detail in their respective section below.

Setting scanner mode

1. Press the ☰ key to enter the menu.
2. Enter 2 1 on your numeric keypad to come to scanner mode.
3. Press the ☰ key to select.
4. Use the ▲ ▼ keys to select scanning mode.
5. Press the ☰ key to confirm and save.
6. Press the ☰ key to exit the menu.

• Time operation (TO) mode: The scanner stops when it detects a signal, and after a factory preset time out, it resumes scanning.
• Carrier operation (CO) mode: The scanner stops when it detects a signal, and after a factory preset time with no signal, it resumes scanning.
• Search operation (SE) mode: The scanner stops when it detects a signal. To resume scanning, you must press and hold the #z key again.

6.2.2 Frequency scanning

This function can scan the frequency.

1. In frequency mode, press #z key for more than 2 seconds. The radio will start scanning the frequency according to the set frequency step.
2. You can change the scanning direction with the ▲ / ▼ keys.
3. Press #z key to stop the scanning.

Note: For Scan mode, see Menu No.21.

6.2.3 Channel scanning

This function can scan the channels.

1. In channels mode, press #z key for more than 2 seconds. The radio will start scanning according to the channel you set.
2. You can change the scanning direction with the ▲ / ▼ keys.
3. Press #z key to stop scanning.

Note: For Scan mode, see Menu No.21.

6.2.4 Scan CTCSS

This function allows scanning the frequencies with CTCSS tone enabled.

1. In standby mode, press ☰ [1][4], "Scan CTCSS" will appear on the display.
2. Press ☰ key and the scan of CTCSS tones will start.

NOTES: The function cannot be activated when the radio is set in Channel mode. The Scan will start only when the receiving band will detect a signal.

6.2.5 Scan DCS

This function allows scanning the frequencies with DCS code enabled.

1. In standby mode, press ☰ [1][5]; the display will show “Scan DCS”.
2. Press ☰ key and the scan of DCS codes will start.

NOTES: The function cannot be activated when the radio is set in Channel mode. The Scan will start only when the receiving band will detect a signal.

6.3 Manual Programming (Channels Memory)

Memory channels are an easy way to store commonly used frequencies so that they can easily be retrieved at a later date. The radios feature 999 memory channels that each can hold: Receive and transmit frequencies, transmit power, group signaling information, bandwidth, ANI/ PTT-ID settings, and a six-character alphanumeric identifier or channel name.

Frequency Mode vs. Channel Mode

In standby mode, press and hold the ☰ key to switch between frequency (VFO) mode and channel (MR) mode.

These two modes have different functions and are often confused.

Frequency Mode (VFO): Used for a temporary frequency assignment, such as a test frequency or quick field programming if permitted.

Channel Mode (MR): Used for selecting preprogrammed channels.

Ex 1. Programming a Channel Repeater Offset with CTCSS Tone

EXAMPLE New memory in Channel 10:

RX = 432.55000 MHz

TX = 437.55000 MHz (This is a (+ 5) Offset)

TX CTCSS tone 123.0

1. Press the ☰ key to switch between menus.
2. Press and hold the ☰ key to set the radio to VFO mode, and the VFO icon is displayed on the right.
3. Enter [3][1] ☰ [1] [0] ☰ (Deletes Prior Data in channel 10)
4. Enter [1][2] ☰ 123.0 ☰ (Selects desired TX encode tone)
5. Enter RX frequency (Ex. 43255000)
6. Enter [3][0] ☰ [1][0] ☰ (Enter the desired channel 10, RX has been added)
7. Enter TX frequency (Ex. 43755000)
8. Enter [3][0] ☰ [1][0] ☰ (Enter the same channel 10, TX has been added)
9. Press and hold the ☰ key to return to the MR mode and the channel number will reappear.

Ex 2. Programming a Simplex Channel with CTCSS tone

EXAMPLE New memory in Channel 10:

RX = 432.6625 MHz

TX CTCSS tone 123.0

1. Press the ☰ key to switch between menus.
2. Press and hold the ☰ key to set the radio to VFO mode, and the VFO icon is displayed on the right.
3. Enter [3][1] ☰ [1] [0] ☰ (Deletes Prior Data in channel 10)
4. Enter [1][2] ☰ 123.0 ☰ (Select desired TX encode tone Ex 123 CTCSS)
5. Use ▲ to select Upper display
6. Enter RX frequency (Ex. 43266250)
7. Enter [3][0] ☰ [1][0] ☰ (Enter the desired channel 10, Channel has been added)
8. Press and hold the ☰ key to return to the MR mode and the channel number will reappear.

6.4 Repeaters Programming

The following instructions assume that you know what transmit and receive frequencies your repeater employs, and that you're authorized to use it.

1. Press and hold the ☰ key to set the radio to VFO mode, and the VFO icon is displayed on the right.
2. Use the numeric keypad to enter the repeater's output (your receiving) frequency.
3. Press the ☰ key to enter the menu.
4. Enter [2][9] on the numeric keypad to get to frequency offset.
5. Press ☰ key to select.
6. Use the numerical keypad to enter the specified frequency offset. See the section called “29 OFFSET - Frequency shift amount" for details.
7. Press ☰ key to confirm and save.
8. Enter [2][8] on the numeric keypad to get to offset direction.
9. Use the ▲ / ▼ keys to select + (positive) or - (negative) offset.
10. Press ☰ key to confirm and save.
11. Optional:
1. Save to memory, see the section called “Manual programming” for details.
2. Set up CTCSS; see the section called “CTCSS" for details.
12. Press ☰ key to exit the menu. If everything went well, you should be able to make a test call through the repeater.

NOTE: If you're experiencing problems making a connection to the repeater, check your settings and/or go through the procedure again.

Certain Amateur Radio repeaters (especially in Europe) use a 1750Hz tone burst to open up the repeater. To see how this is done with the radios, see the section called “1750Hz Tone-burst”.

If you're still unable to make a connection, contact the person in charge of the radio system with your employer or your local amateur radio club, as the case may be.

If you for some reason want to listen to the repeater's input frequency instead, press the * key momentarily and you'll reverse your transmit and receive frequencies.

This is indicated in the LCD on the radio with an R in the top row, next to the + and - for the offset direction.

6.5 VOX

This function allows hands-free conversations: just speak in the direction of the microphone and the communication will be automatically activated.

In standby mode, press ☰ + 7. The screen will display “VOX”.

Press ☰ key to enter the function. Press the ▲ / ▼ keys to turn off the VOX function or to select the VOX level (1-10), then press ☰ key to confirm.

To return to the standby mode, press ☰ key.

NOTE: Level 1 is the least sensitive while level 9 is the most sensitive. When the radio is in Scan or FM Radio mode, the VOX is not enabled.

6.6 Dual Watch

In certain situations, the ability to monitor two channels at once can be a valuable asset. This can be achieved in one of two ways. You can either have one receiver in your radio and flip-flop between two frequencies at a fixed interval (known as Dual Watch), or you can equip a radio with two receivers (known as Dual Receive or Dual VFO). The former method is cheaper to implement and far more common than the latter.

The Radios feature Dual Watch functionality (single receiver) with the ability to lock the transmit frequency to one of the two channels it monitors.

Enabling or disabling Dual Watch mode

1. Press the ☰ key to enter the menu.
2. Enter 7 on the numeric keypad to get to Dual Watch.
3. Press ☰ key to select.
4. Use the UP and DOWN keys to enable or disable.
5. Press the ☰ key to confirm.
6. Press the ☰ key to exit the menu.

6.7 Stopwatch timer

In standby mode, press ☰ + 44. The screen displays “STOP WATCH”.

Using the stopwatch timer:

A stopwatch icon with '00:00:00' displayed.

When this function is ON, press ☰ key to start counting; Press ☰ key again to re-start counting.

To exit the function, stop the counting first, and then press the ☰ key.

6.8 DTMF

DTMF is an in-band signaling method using dual sinusoidal signals for any given code. Originally developed for telephony systems, it has proved a very versatile tool in many other areas.

In two-way radio systems, DTMF is most commonly used for automation systems and remote control. A common example would be in amateur radio repeaters where some repeaters are activated by sending out a DTMF sequence (usually a simple single-digit sequence).

DTMF frequencies and corresponding codes

The radios have a full implementation of DTMF, including the A, B, C, and D codes.

The numerical keys, as well as the *, ▲, and #z keys correspond to the matching DTMF codes as you would expect. The A, B, C, and D codes are located in the ▲, ▼, and ☰ keys respectively.

To send DTMF codes, press the key(s) corresponding to the message you want to send while holding down the PTT key.

If you have the keypad lock enabled on your radio, you can still send DTMF tones the regular way without having to unlock your radio.

6.9 Customization

The radio allows you to define visual and audible features such as Display Illumination Time, MR/Channel Mode Display Format, Power On Message, Power On password, Keypad Beep, Roger Beep, Voice Prompt, etc. to suit your usage habits.

6.9.1 Display backlight (ABR) - MENU 7

In standby mode, press ☰ + 7. The screen will display "ABR”.

Press ☰ key to enter the function. Press the ▲ / ▼ keys to select the always-on/required delay time (ON/5sec/5sec/10sec/15sec/20sec) the backlight of the display, then press ☰ key to confirm.

To return to the standby mode, press ☰ key.

6.9.2 Beep PROMPT (BEEP) - MENU 8

If you enable this function, every time a key is pressed, you will hear a Beep tone.

In standby mode, press ☰ + 8. The screen will display "BEEP PROMPT”.

Press ☰ key to enter the function. Press the ▲ / ▼ keys to turn ON/OFF the beep function.

Press ☰ key to confirm and exit to return to standby mode.

6.9.3 Voice function (VOICE) - MENU 17

In standby mode, press ☰ + 17; the screen will display “VOICE”.

Press ☰ key to enter the function. Press the ▲ / ▼ keys to select OFF/ON. Confirm your selection by pressing MENU.

To return to the standby mode, press ☰ key.

6.9.4 Language of the MENU (LANGUAGE) - MENU 18

This section shows the language of the MENU (English).

In standby mode, press ☰ + 18. The display will show “LANGUAGE”.

6.9.5 Working Mode (MDF-A) - MENU 24

The radio has four working modes available:

• Frequency mode (FREQ)
• Channel mode (CH)
• Channel name (NAME)

To shift from one mode to another one:

In Standby mode, press ☰ + 24; select the desired working mode with the ▲ / ▼ keys.

Press ☰ key again to confirm your selection.

6.9.6 Roger Beep, end Transmission Tone (ROGER) - MENU 36

Roger Beep can be enabled/disabled:

• OFF: Roger Beep disabled
• ON: Roger Beep tone at the end of transmission

In standby mode, press ☰ + 36; the screen will display "ROGER”.

Press ☰ to enter the function. Press the ▲ / ▼ keys to select OFF/ON. Confirm your selection by press ☰ key.

To return to the standby mode, press ☰ key.

6.9.7 Power On Message (POWER ON MSG) - MENU 40

With this Menu, you can customize the welcome message that appears on the display when the radio is switched on.

Choose amongst the following options:

• VOLTAGE (the power voltage is momentarily displayed)
• MESSAGE (welcome message)
• LOGO (Custom Pictures)
• MODEL NAME (the model name of the radio will be displayed)

In Standby mode, press ☰ + 40. The display will show “POWER ON MSG”.

Press ☰ key to enter the function. Press the ▲ / ▼ keys to select the desired option and confirm with MENU.

To return to the standby mode, press ☰ key.

6.9.8 Power On Password (Power On Password) - Menu 43

With this Menu, you can request the correct password when the radio is turned on.

In standby mode, press MENU + 43. The display will show "POWER ON PWD"

Press ☰ key to enter the function. Press the ▲ / ▼ keys to enable/disable (ON/OFF) the power on password and confirm with MENU.

To return to standby mode, press ☰ key.

Enable the power on password function. Each time the radio is turned on, it will display "Input Password" to prompt for the correct password.

6.10 Reset - MENU 42

This transceiver has two Reset modes available: VFO and ALL.

• Reset VFO: all the settings except channels will return to the default settings.
• Reset ALL: all settings will return to the default settings.

Reset VFO

In standby mode, press ☰ + 42; the screen will display “RESET”.

Press ☰ to enter the function. Press the ▲ / ▼ keys to select VFO, then press ☰ to confirm.

The display will show “Sure to reset?”. Press ☰ again to confirm and the screen will display "Wait…”. Then, the transceiver will turn off and reboot again.

Reset ALL

In standby mode, press ☰ + 42. The screen displays “RESET”.

Press ☰ to enter the function. Press the ▲ / ▼ keys to select ALL, then press ☰ to confirm.

The display will show “Sure to reset?”. Press ☰ again to confirm; the screen will display "Wait…”. Then, the transceiver will turn off and reboot again.

Appendix A. – Troubleshooting guide

NOTE: If the above solutions cannot fix your problems, or you may have some other queries, please contact your dealer for more technical support.

Appendix B. - Shortcut Menu operations

Appendix C. - Technical Specifications

General

• Frequency Range:
  • TX: 144-148M, 420M-450M
  • RX: 136-174M, 400-519.995M
  • FM: 65M-108M
• Power: 5W/2W
• Channel Spacing: 25.0KHz(Wide)/12.5KHz (Narr)
• Memory Channel: 999 Groups
• Operation Voltage: DC 7.4 V ±10%
• Transmission current: ≤1700mA
• Receive Sensitivity: 0.25μV (12dB SINAD)
• Rated Audio Power Output: 1W @16 ohms
• Receive current: ≤380mA
• Connection for accessories: 2 pin Kenwood jack
• Antenna impedance: 50 Ohm

NOTE: All specifications may be modified without prior notice or liability. Thank you.

Disclaimer

The accuracy and completeness of the contents are sought in the process of compilation, but the company does not bear any responsibility for possible errors or omissions. With the continuous development of technology, the company reserves the right to change the design and specification of the product without notice. No copy, modification, translation, and dissemination of this handbook may be made in any form without the prior written authorization of the department.

The document includes symbols for FCC compliance, recycling, and a crossed-out wheeled bin, indicating separate waste collection for electrical and electronic equipment.

PO FUNG ELECTRONIC (HK) INTERNATIONAL GROUP COMPANY LIMITED

ADD: Room 1508, 15/F, Office Tower II, Grand Plaza, 625 Nathan Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Website: http://www.baofengradio.com

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Print version: UV-17R_(FCC)_V1.0