Rugged Radios R1 Digital Handheld Radio
User Guide
Product Overview
The Rugged Radios R1 is a digital handheld two-way radio designed for occupational use. It features a durable design, essential communication functions, and safety features for professional environments.
Radio Layout Description: The R1 Digital Handheld Radio features a dual-band antenna at the top. On the front, there is a flashlight, an indicator light, a large PTT (Push-to-Talk) button on the side, and an accessory port. The front panel includes a LED display, UP/DOWN SELECT buttons, OK and BACK buttons, and dedicated buttons for CH. PRESET 1, P1, P2, FM MODE, and LOCK. Labels indicate CH. PRESET 2, FLASHLIGHT, and SETTINGS functions associated with certain buttons. The side features VOLUME ON/OFF controls and SIDE KEY 1 and SIDE KEY 2 buttons. The bottom of the radio has a BATTERY CHARGING PORT and a BELT CLIP. A rechargeable lithium-ion battery is also depicted.
Radio Functions
Channel Management
- Changing Channels: Use the [UP/DOWN SELECT] buttons to scroll through channels until your desired channel is reached. It is recommended to lock the radio to prevent accidental changes.
- Changing Zones: Long-press the [OK] button to open the settings menu. Select ZONE and press [OK] to accept. Use the [UP/DOWN SELECT] buttons to scroll to the desired zone and press [OK] to accept.
Core Operations
- Push-to-Talk (PTT): Press the [PTT] button to transmit and release it to receive after your transmission is completed.
- 2-Pin Mic/Accessory Port: This jack provides connection points for microphone input, audio output, and a programming cable.
Settings and Features
- Settings Menu: Long-press the [OK] button to open the settings menu.
- Dual Monitor: When dual monitor is activated, a short-press of the [OK] button switches between channel A and channel B.
- Flashlight: Hold the [FLASHLIGHT] button and quick-press the [OK] button to turn the flashlight on and off.
Side Key Functions
- Side Key 1: Press and hold to view the battery voltage.
- Side Key 2: Press and hold to monitor a channel by temporarily changing the squelch to zero, allowing you to hear very weak signals.
Radio Modes
- FM Radio Mode: Long-press the [FM MODE] button to activate FM radio mode. Use the [UP/DOWN SELECT] buttons to scroll through channels until your desired channel is reached. Press [BACK] to exit FM radio mode.
- Lock: Long-press the [LOCK] button to lock and unlock the radio.
- P1 Setting: Configures Channel 1 in the active zone.
- P2 Setting: Configures Channel 2 in the active zone.
- OK: Confirms selections.
- BACK: Exits menus or cancels operations.
Licensing and Regulations
Rugged two-way radios operate on frequencies regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). A license is required to transmit on these frequencies. Rugged Radios licenses commercial and area-specific band frequencies. Under this FCC license, Rugged Radios' customers are authorized to transmit on Rugged brand mobile and handheld radios only, on pre-programmed channels, in designated locations. For the latest information regarding the Rugged Radios license, please visit ruggedradios.com/licensing.
Listen-Only Channels: Rugged Radios offers access to licensed frequencies for customers as listen-only channels. Users are prohibited from transmitting on these frequencies, which are labeled as LSO.
Safety and RF Exposure
This radio generates RF electromagnetic energy during transmit mode and is classified as "Occupational Use Only." It is designed for use by individuals aware of the hazards and ways to minimize them, and is not intended for the "General Population" in uncontrolled environments. The radio has been tested and complies with FCC RF exposure limits for "Occupational Use Only" and relevant standards like FCC OET Bulletin 65, ANSI C95.1-1992, and ANSI C95.3-1992.
Guidelines for Safe RF Exposure:
- Always operate the radio with a proper antenna attached.
- DO NOT transmit for more than 50% of total radio use time.
- Keep the antenna at least 2.5 cm (1 inch) away from the body when transmitting and use the provided belt-clip to ensure compliance.
- For best sound quality, hold the antenna at least 5 cm (2 inches) from your mouth, and slightly off to one side.
Electromagnetic Interference/Compatibility
Your radio generates RF energy that can cause interference with other devices. To avoid this, turn off the radio in areas where signs prohibit its use. DO NOT operate the transmitter in areas sensitive to electromagnetic radiation, such as hospitals, aircraft, and blasting sites.
Occupational/Controlled Use
The radio transmitter is intended for use in situations where individuals are exposed as a consequence of their employment, provided they are fully aware of potential exposure and can exercise control over it.