RadioShack 12-249 Owner Manual

Cat. No. 12-249
OWNER’S MANUAL
Please read before using this equipment.
7-Channel Weatheradio
Severe-Weather Alert
WARNING
: To reduce the risk of fire or shock hazard, do not ex­pose this product to rain or mois­ture.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK.
DO NOT OPEN.
!
CAUTION
ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER OR BACK. NO USER-SERVICE­ABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVIC­ING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
This symbol is intended to alert yo u to the pr esenc e of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the product’s en­closure that mig ht be of suffi cient magni tude to c onsti ­tute a risk of electr ic s hock. Do no t ope n th e pr odu ct’s case.
This symbol is intended to inform you that important op­erating and m aintenance instructions are included in
!
the literature accompanying this product.
The graphical symbols with s upplemental mar kings are on the bot­tom of the unit.
RadioShack and Weatheradio are registered trademarks
X-10 is a registered trademark of X-10 (USA) Inc.
: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF
©
1997, 1998 Tandy Corporation.
All Rights Reserved.
used by Tandy Corporation.
2
FEATURES
In 1994, the National Oceanic and Aerospace Admin­istration (NOAA) began broadcasting coded emer­gency weather signals that identify the specific geographic area (such as a county) affected by an emergency. Until that time, such specific emergency weather information was sent in other ways (over land wire, for example) to other communication out­lets (such as radio stations), then broadcast to the public on AM or FM radio frequencies or on TV.
NOAA transmits the coded weather emergency sig­nals using a technique called Specific Area Message Encoding, or SAME. Your RadioShack 7-Channel Weatheradio Radio-SAME) Severe-Weather Alert is specially de­signed to receive these SAME transmissions.
The Weatheradio’s SAME technology circuitry lets you program it with up to 15 predefined state/county codes and receive emergency weather alert broad­casts that notify you of weather warnings, watches, statements — about 30 different types — for only those areas. You can set the Weatheradio to sound an alert when it receives a SAME emergency signal, and you can adjust the alert volume.
with NWR-SAME (National Weather
The Weatheradio also comes preprogrammed with the seven NOAA broadcast frequencies, so you can select the channel that is broadcast in your area and listen to general weather information 24 hours a day.
3
The Weatheradio’s features incl ude:
Alert Function — lets you set the Weatheradio to sound an alert when it receives a weather emergency broadcast from NOAA.
SAME Operation — lets you prog ram up to 15 differ­ent FIPS (Federal Information Processing System) codes into the Weatheradio’s memory. Each FIPS code identifies a specific geographic area (defined by the NWS), so your Weatheradio sounds an alert when a weather emergency is declared in only those locations. This helps you track t he weather conditions in and around your area .
8-Character Liquid Crystal Display — clearly dis­plays as digital characters items such as channel numbers and alert status descriptions (TORNADO WARNING, FLOOD WATCH, and so on).
Alert Status Indicators — different-colored indica­tors let you determine at a glance the type of alert re­ceived (red is for a warning, yel low is for a watch, and green is for a statement).
7 Channels — let you select the frequency for your local NOAA weather broadcasts.
4
Adju st ab le Di sp la y Ba ck lig ht — makes the display easy to read in low light situations. You can set the light to turn on for about 10 seconds when you press a key, or remain on until you t urn it off.
Alert Volume Control — lets you adjust the volume of the alert so you will be sure to hear it.
Exte rnal A lert Termi nals — let you connect an ex­ternal controller system (such as a Plug ’n Power or
X-10
system) to the Weatheradio and set that sys­tem to indicate an alert based on signals received by the Weatheradio. This is useful for ensuring you can hear or see the alert in a location (such as the ga­rage) that might be som e distance from where you in­stalled the Weath eradio.
External Antenna Connect or — lets you connect an optional external antenna to the Weatheradio to im­prove receptio n (in remote areas, for exampl e).
We recommend you record your We atheradio’s serial number here. The number is on the bottom of the ra­dio.
Serial Number:
5
CONTENTS
Preparation ...................................................................... 7
Connectin g Powe r .. .... ........... .... .... .... ........... .... .... .... . 7
Connectin g AC Power ... .... .... .... ........... .... .... .... . 8
Installing a Back-Up Battery .............................. 9
Using the Antenna .. ............ ... .... .... .... ........... .... .... ... 11
Connecting an External Antenna .................... 11
Getting Started .. .... ... .... .... ........... .... .... .... .... ........... .... ... 12
Understand in g the FIPS C ode ...... .... .... .... ... ........... 12
Obtaining Your Area’s FIPS Code(s) ............... 13
Programming the Weatheradio ............................... 14
Using the Weatheradio’s “All
Signals” Cod e ........ .... ........... .... .... .... ... ........... 19
Choosing a Loca tio n an d Mo un t i ng
the Weatheradio . ........... .... .... .... .... ........... .... ... 20
Operation ....................................................................... 22
Listening to the Weather Broadcast ........................ 23
Using the Alert Func tio n . ........... .... .... .... ........... .... ... 24
Setting the Alert Volume .................................. 25
Checking/Changing the Alert Pattern .............. 25
When a Weather Alert Occurs ........................ 27
NWS Weather Alert Descriptions .................... 28
Reviewin g Ove rla pp in g Ale rts ........... ........... ... 32
When a Test or Demo Alert Occurs ................. 33
Locking Out Undefined (New or Commercial)
Weather Descr ip tio ns ........ .... .... .... .... ........... ... 34
Special Featu res ............... .... .... ... .... ............ .... ... .... .... ... 37
Using Continuous Backlight .................................... 37
Connecting the Weatheradio to an
External System ...................................................... 38
Troubleshooting ............................................................ 40
Care ................................................................................ 44
The FCC Wants You to Know .................................. 46
Specificatio ns ........... ................ ............... ........... ........... 4 7
6
PREPARATION
CONNECTING POWER
Your Weatheradio uses standard AC power f or nor­mal operation. For back-up power (when AC power fails or is temporarily disconnected), your Weathera­dio requires a 9V battery (not supplied). For the best performance and longest life, we recommend an al­kaline battery, such as RadioShack Cat. No. 23- 553.
Notes:
• A fresh back-up battery will power the Weathera­dio for up to 1 hour with the weather broadcast turned on (see “Listening to the Weather Broad­cast” on Page23) or up to 8 hours in alert standby mode (see “Usi ng the Alert Function” on Page 24). For normal use, however, we recom­mend you always connect the Weatheradio to AC power.
• If you disconnect the Weatheradio from AC power a n d yo u w ill n o t b e u si ng th e W eat he r a di o for several days, remove the back-up battery. A battery can leak chemicals that damage your Weatheradio’s electronic parts.
7
Connecting AC Power
1. If the Weatheradio is on, turn
VOLUME
to the
right until i t cl icks to turn the Weatheradio off.
VOLUME
OFF
MAX
2. Plug the Weather adio’s power cord into a stan­dard AC outlet.
Caution:
Your Weatheradio’s power cord has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). If you have difficulty inserting the plug int o the outlet, do not force it! Turn the plug over and try again.
8
Installing a Back-Up Battery
Cautions:
• Use only a fresh battery of the required size and recommended type.
not
• We recommend you tery.
use a rechargeable bat-
Tab
1. If the Weatheradio is on, turn right until it clicks to turn the Weatheradio off.
2. Press in the tab on the battery compartment cover and lift the cover up to remove it.
3. Snap a battery onto the battery term inals inside the compartment, then put the battery in the compartment.
4. Replace the cover.
VOLUME
to the
9
When
REPLACE
the battery.
(then)
BATTERY
appears, replace
STATEMENT
Note:
REPLACE BATTERY
WATCH WARNING
ALERTLEVEL
STATEMENT
WATCH WARNING
ALERTLEVEL
also appears if no bat­tery is installed and the Weatheradio is turned on and connected to AC power.
Caution: Never leave a dead or weak battery in the Weatheradio. Dispose of an old battery promptly and properly; do not bury or burn it.
10
USING THE ANTENNA
EXTANT
OPERATE
PROGRAM
MODE
ALARMOUT
+
For the best reception at all times, lift up the Weatheradio’s built-in telescoping antenna so it is verti­cal, then fully extend it.
Connecting an External Antenna
To improve reception (in remote areas, for example), you can connect an external antenna using an adapt­er cable (RadioShack Unlimited Cat. No. 11806437, not supplied) with a phono plug to the Weatheradio’s
EXT ANT
wide variety of antennas.
To connect an external antenna to the Weatheradio, connect one end of the adapter cable to the Weatheradio and connect the other end to the phono plug on the antenna. Then lower the Weath­eradio’s telescoping antenna.
jack. Your local RadioShack store sells a
EXT ANT
+
OPERATE
PROGRAM
EXTANT
MODE
ALARMOUT
on
11
GETTING STARTED
UNDERSTANDING THE FIPS CODE
The NWS divides the United States by state and county (or parish, where applicable), then assigns a 6-digit “FIPS” (Federal Information Processing Sys­tem) code to ident ify each county/parish for the pur­pose of broadcasting weather conditions. For example, the code for Tarrant County, Texas, is
048439. The first digit in a FIPS
code identifies the coun­ty subdivision, the next two digits identify the state, and the last three digits identify the county itself. For example:
Note:
Most FIPS codes begin with 0, which means that FIPS code represents an entire county. The NWS, however, eventually plans to subdivide some large counties. When that happens, each subdivision will be assigned a digit from 1–9, resulting in codes such as 148439, 248439, and so on.
Your Weatheradio is preset to receive all SAME alert signals broadcast within about a 50-mile radius of where you installed it. To receive SAME alerts and broadcasts about weather occurring only in particular counties within that area, you can program up to 15
12
04843 9
State
County
County Subdivision
FIPS codes into the Weatheradio’s memory. That way, for example, you can avoid an alert that applies to an area within that 50-mile radius but not in your county.
Obtaining Your Area’s FIPS Code(s)
To obtain the FIPS co de for the location whe re you in­stalled the Weatheradio, contact your local Ra­dioShack store or ca ll the NWS tol l free at:
1-888-NWR-SAME
(1-888-697-7263)
If you call the NWS, follow the instructions you hear.
Note:
If you are close to a county/parish line(s), you might want to obt ain the codes for any other countie s/ parishes you are cl ose to.
Hint:
Since you can program up to 15 FIPS codes into the Weatheradio’s memory, you might want to obtain the codes for other local areas that you travel through to work (as long as those areas are within a 50 mile radius of your loca tion and withi n an area cov­ered by your local NWS broadcast station). That way, you can program those codes into the Weatheradio and receive broadcasts covering those locations, too.
13
PROGRAMMING THE WEATHERADIO
Note:
Some of the Weatheradio’s keys (such as are located under the cover on top of the Weathera­dio. Lift the cover to access the keys.
The first time you use your Weatheradio, it is auto­matically set to:
• Use the NOAA weather broadcast frequency
162.400 MHz (Channel 1)
• Receive all SAME alert signals broadcast within a 50-mile radiu s of wher e you installed it
Your Weatheradio is preprogr ammed with the seven national NOAA broadcast frequencies (Channels 1–
7). Depending on your location, you might need to se­lect a different channel.
To select a different broadcast frequency (if neces­sary) and store or change FIPS codes in the Weath­eradio’s memory (to narrow the area in which you receive SAME alerts), follow these steps.
14
0–9
)
1. To turn on the Weatheradio, turn left until it clicks. Then set the bottom of the radio) to
SINGLE/MULTIPLE
SINGLE
entering only one FIPS code or to you are entering more than one.
VOLUME
if you are
MULTIPLE
to the
(on
if
2. Set
PROGRAM/OPERATE
to
PROGRAM
Weatheradio displays the last selected weather broadcast channel and frequency number.
+
OPERATE
PROGRAM
3. Press
WEATHER
to turn on the weather broad-
cast (if necessary), then turn
EXTANT
MODE
ALARMOUT
VOLUME
to adjust the volume so you can hear the broadca st as you make your selection.
WEATHER ALERT
OFF
VOLUME
OFF
MAX
. The
15
Note: If you do not press a key for about 45 sec­onds during Steps 4–8, the Weatheradio exits the programming mode, and saves only those changes stored before the last keypress. To con­tinue, set
PROGRAM/OPERATE
back to
OPERA TE
then start over at Step 2.
4. Press a number key (1–7) to listen to the
Channel
Frequency
(MHz)
broadcast on that channel. The Weath­eradio displays the selected channel and its corresponding fre­quency.
Repeat this step until you find the channel broadcasting in your area.
1 162.400 2 162.425 3 162.450 4 162.475 5 162.500 6 162.525 7 162.550
Note: If you receive a NOAA broadcast on more
than one channel, t he one with the best re ceptio n
might not
be the one broadcasting information for your location. Contact your local RadioShack store or NWS office to find out which frequency NOAA is using to broadcast from the station nearest your lo cation, then select that channel.
,
16
5. Press
YES
three times. The Weatheradio dis­plays the FIPS code stored in the first memory position.
6
4
5
9
7 8
NO
YES
0
WEATHER ALERT
OFF
STATEMENT
WATCH WARNING
ALERTLEVEL
VOLUME
OFF
MAX
6. To change the code in the first memory position,
YES
press
so
------
STATEMENT
appears.
WATCH WARNING
ALERTLEVEL
To add or change a code in a diff erent position, repeatedly press
NO
until you see the first unused memory position or the code you want to change, then press
7. Use the number keys (
YES
so
------
0–9
) to enter the 6-digit
appears.
FIPS code you want to store.
Notes:
• If you make a m istake while ent ering the code,
NO
press pears), then enter the correct digits.
to clear all digits (so
------
reap-
17
• To reset the Weatheradio to receive all SAME signals within a 50-mile radius, simply enter the code 99 in the first memory position. See “Using the Weatheradio’s ‘All Signals’ Code” on Pa ge 19.
• For easy reference, write down each FIPS code you store in memory on the label located beneath the We atheradio’s keypad cover.
8. Press
YES
to store the code in the Weatheradi o’s
memory. If you set
SINGLE/MULTIPLE
to
MULTIPLE
code (if any) stored in the next memory position appears on the display. Repeat Steps 4–6 for each code (up to 15) you want to change or add. When you press
YES
to store a code in the last (15th) memory position, the code you stored in the first posit ion reappears.
If you set
SINGLE/MULTIPLE
to
SINGLE
, the dis-
play does not change.
9. When you finish, set
OPERATE
. The current alert status appears (see
PROGRAM/OPERATE
“Using the Alert Funct ion” on Page 24).
, the
to
18
Important: The fact that you get clear reception of a weather broadcast signal does emergency alert bro adcast will trigge r your Weather a­dio’s alert function. Be sure you choose the proper lo­cation for the Wea theradio (see “Choosing a Location and Mounting the Weatheradio” on Page 20) and reg­ularly chec k the Weatheradio to be sure it is operating properly (se e “When a Test or Demo Alert Occurs” on Page 33).
not
guarantee that an
Using the Weatheradio’s “All Signals” Code
This Weatheradio is preset to use a default “all sig­nals” code of 99, which lets it receive all SAM E broad­casts within a 50-mile radius. (This code is unique to your Weatheradio — it i s
The first time you program the Weatheradio, you re­place the “all signals” code (in the first memory posi­tion) with a specific NWS FIPS code. To reset the Weatheradio to use the “all signals” code again, sim­ply follow Steps 1, 2, and 5–9 in “Programming the Weatheradio” on Page 14, and store 99 in the first memory position in Step 6.
not
a FIPS code.)
19
CHOOSING A LOCATION AND MOUNTING THE WEATHERADIO
You can set your Weatheradio on any flat surface (such as a shelf or counter top), or you can mount it on a wall using the supplied mounting bracket and two screws (not supplied) with heads that fit the key­hole slots on the mounting bracket.
For your Weatheradio to be effective, however, be sure you place the Weatheradio where:
• It can receive alert signals (see “When a Test or Demo Alert Occurs” on Page 33)
• You can hear its alert tone (see “Setting the Alert Volume” on Page25)
Note:
You can also connect the Weatheradio to an external module interface, then set the interface to in­dicate an alert (sound a buzzer or flash a light, for ex­ample) on a connected appliance when the Weatheradio receives an emergency alert broadcast. See “Connecting the Weath eradio to an External Sys­tem” on Page 38.
20
Follow these steps to mount the Weatheradio on a wall.
1. Select a mounting location near the AC outlet, then drill two holes 2
1
/8 inches apart. Then thread a screw into each mounting hole until the head extends
1
about
/8 inch fr o m th e
wall.
2. Insert the tabs on the bracket into the slots
Cutouts
on the Weatheradio. Then, while making sure any connected cords (power and so on) are aligned with the cutouts in the bracket, press the
H
8
2
1
D
E
T
O
I
S
I
D
L
A
R
.
®
SERIALNO
MULTIPLE
FCC ID:AAO12-249
SINGLE
®
ALERTTONE
CAT.NO.12-249
FREQUENCY :1-162.400MHz 2-162.425MHz 3-162.450MHz
4-162.475MHz 5-162.500MHz 6-162.525MHz 7-162.550MHz
POWER SUPPLY :AC 120V60Hz5W
CustomManufacturedin ChinaforRadioShack, A Division
of TandyCorporation, Fort Worth, Texas76102
bracket toward the Weatheradio until it clicks into place.
3. Align the keyhole slots in the mounting bracket with the screws on the wall­Press the weather adio toward the wall then down to secure it.
21
OPERATION
To turn on the Weatheradio, turn until it clic ks.
WEATHER
(then)
VOLUME
(alert) ON ap-
ALRT
to the left
pears.
WEATHER ALERT
OFF
VOLUME
OFF
MAX
Note:
STATEMENT
VOLUME
WATCH WARNING
ALERTLEVEL
also controls the Weatheradio’s audio broadcast volume. To set the alert volume, see “Set­ting the Alert Volume ” on Page25.
To listen to the weather broadcast
, see “L iste ning to
the Weather Broadcast” on Page 23.
To have the W eatheradio sound an alert
, see “U si ng
the Alert Function” on Page 24. To turn off the Weatheradio, turn
VOLUME
to the right
until it clicks and the display goes blank.
22
LISTENING TO THE WEATHER BROADCAST
Your Weatheradio is preprogrammed with the seven NOAA weather broadcast frequencies (Channels 1–
7). To select the frequency broadcast in your area (if you did not do so already), follow Steps 2–4 and 9 in “Programming the Weatheradio” on Page 14.
To listen to the weather broadcast, be sure
PROGRAM
adjust
is set to
VOLUME
off the weather broadcast , press
STATEMENT
OPERATE
, press
WEATHER
to the desired listening level. To turn
WEATHER
WEATHER ALERT
OFF
WATCH WARNING
ALERTLEVEL
VOLUME
OFF
OPERATE
, then
again.
MAX
/
23
USING THE ALERT FUNCTION
To set the Weatheradio to sound an alert when the NWS broadcasts a weather warning, watch, or state­ment for the FI PS code(s) stored in it s m em ory, press
ALERT
so
WEATHER
Notes:
• If you programmed more than one FIPS code into memory, be sure
MULTIPLE
receive broadcasts for the FIPS code you stored in the first memory position.
• If severe weather threatens, do not wait for an alert tone; turn on the weather broadcast and monitor the weath er information.
To set the Weatheradio so it does not sound an alert,
ALERT
press pears.
STATEMENT
(then)
WATCH WARNING
ALERTLEVEL
ALRT ON
SINGLE/MULTIPLE
OFF
appears.
WEATHER ALERT
VOLUME
OFF
MAX
is set to
. Othe rwise, the Weathe radio w ill only
again so
WEATHER ALRT OFF
ap-
24
Setting the Alert Volume
To set your Weatheradio ’s alert volume, use a coin to
ALERT TONE
turn counterclock wise to decrease it. To begin (before you hear the alert the first time), we recommend you se­lect the highest volume setting, then decrease it as needed.
clockwise to increase the volume or
Changing/Checking the Alert Pattern
You can set the Weatheradio to respond t o an NWS alert broadcast in one of two ways.
VOICE
— the Weatheradio sounds an alert for about 8 seconds, then automatically turns on t he weather (voice) broadcast for 5 minutes. Then it returns to standby mode. It also displays the alert description (such as tive time (such as 2 hours, 30 minutes; received as part of the NWS broadcast code) expires.
TORNADO WARNING
) until the alert’s effec-
25
(Continuous) ALERT
— the Weatheradio sounds an alert and displays an alert description until the alert’s effective time expires.
The Weatheradio automatically selects the VOICE setting the fir st time you turn it on. To change the al ert pattern setting (or check which setting is currently se­lected), f oll ow these steps.
PROGRAM/OPERATE
1. Set
Note:
If you do not press a key for about 45 sec-
PROGRAM
to
.
onds during Steps 2–4, the Weatheradio exits the programming mode without storing any change. To continue, set back to
2. Press
OPERATE
YES
, then start over at Step 1.
once. The Weatheradio shows the
currently selected alert pattern (
ALERT
).
STATEMENT
WATCH WARNING
ALERTLEVEL
PROGRAM/OPERATE
VOICE
6
4
5
9
7 8
NO
YES
0
WEATHER ALERT
OFF
VOLUME
OFF
MAX
or
3. To select the other setting, press ting (
4. Press
PROGRAM/OPERATE
or
VOICE
YES
again to store your selection, then set
ALERT
to
) appears.
OPERATE
alert status appears.
26
NO
so t hat set -
. The current
When a Weathe r Aler t Occ u r s
When
WEATHER ALRT ON
the Weatheradio receives a broadcast for the FIPS code(s) stored in its memory, the Weatheradio sounds an alert (siren or beep), displays the alert de­scription, and turns on the corresponding colored in­dicator (WARNING/red, WATCH/yellow, or STATE­MENT/green). The alert descr iptions are based on a list of specific weather alert types published by the NWS. For a list of all the alert descriptions that your Weatheradio can display, see “NWS Weather Alert Descriptions” on Page28.
If you selected the VOICE pattern
sounds an alert for about 8 seconds, then automati­cally turns on the weather (voice) broadcast f or 5 min­utes. Then it re turns to standby mode. It also displays the alert description until the alert’s effective time ex­pires. To turn off th e aler t sooner, press
Note:
When the Weatheradio’s alert ends or you turn it off, you will hear the NWS alert tone (which sounds different than the Weatheradio’s tone) for a few sec­onds before you hear the voice broadcast.
If you selected the ALERT pattern
sounds an alert and displays t he alert description for the alert’s effective time. To turn off the alert sooner,
OFF
press press
. To turn on the NWS voice broadcast,
WEATHER
.
shows on the display and
, the Weatheradio
OFF
.
, the Weatheradio
27
Caution: The NWS uses sophisticated weather mod­els to determine an alert’s effective time. However, if a storm front (for example) moves through an area at a slower speed than initially predicted, the storm­related activity might continue after the alert ends. The end of an alert does not necessarily mean that the related weather emergency is over.
NWS Weather Alert Descriptions
Your Weatheradio can display these NWS weather alert descriptions. For easy reference, this list also shows the type of alert (siren or beep) that sounds during each alert.
You See
TORNADO
TORNADO WARNING
SEVERE
THUNDER
SEVERE THUNDER WARNING
28
WATCH
WATCH
Weather/Alert
Description
Tornado watch Siren
Tornado warning Siren
Severe thunderstorm watch
Severe thunderstorm warning
You
Hear
Siren
Siren
Y ou See
SEVERE
WEATHER SPECIAL
WEATHER
FLASH FLOOD WATCH
FLASH FLOOD
WARNING
FLASH FLOOD
FLOOD WATCH
FLOOD
WARNING
Weather/Alert
Description
Severe weather statement
Specia l w ea the r statement
Flash flood watch Siren
Flash f lood warning Siren
Flash flood statement Beeps
Flood watch Siren
Flood war n in g Siren
Y ou
Hear
Beeps
Beeps
FLOOD
WINTER
STORM WATCH
WINTER
STORM
WARNING
Flood st at e m ent Beeps
Winter storm watch Siren
Winter st or m war ni ng Sire n
29
You See
BLIZZARD
WARNING
HIGHWIND
WATCH
HIGHWIND
WARNING
HURRICAN
WATCH
HURRICAN
WARNING
Weather/Alert
Description
Blizzard warning Siren
High wind watch Siren
High wind warning Siren
Hurricane watch Siren
Hurricane warning Siren
You
Hear
HURRICAN
NUCLEAR
ATTACK WARNING
TSUNAMI
WATCH
TSUNAMI WARNING
TUNE TV
30
Hurricane statement Beeps
Nuclear attack warning
Tsunami watch Siren
Tsunami warning Siren
Civil emergency — turn on the TV for information or, if no information is available on TV, call your local NWS office
Siren
Siren
Y ou See
Weather/Alert
Description
Y ou
Hear
The alert descri ption
Note:
cate the Weat heradio has rece ived a signal for a condi­tion not defined in the Weatheradio’s memory — see “Locking Out Undefined (New or Commercial) Weather Descriptions” on Page 34.
SEVERE MARINE
TUNE TV
Severe marine warning
could al so indi-
Siren
WARNING
EVACUATE IMMEDIAT
EMERGENC
ACTION
Evacuate immediately
Emergency action warn­ing
Siren
Siren
WARNING COASTAL
FLOOD
Coastal flood warning
Siren
WARNING
31
Reviewing Overlapping Alerts
Your Weatheradio can store up to three different alerts ( w ith overlapping effective times) in its memory. If the Weatheradio receives a new alert while a pr evi­ous alert is still in effect, it automatically displays the alert description an d sounds an alert for t he new alert.
To scroll forward or backward through the Weathera­dio’s memory and review all effective alerts, pres s (to scroll forward) or
Notes:
• The Weatheradio sounds a high-pitched keytone if you try to scroll past the first or last alert in memory. To continue, press the other key to begin scrolling in the opposite direction.
• If the Weatheradio receives a new alert while three previous alerts are still in effect, it stores the new alert and clears the oldest alert from memory.
YES
(to scroll backward).
NO
32
When a Test or Demo Alert Occurs
The NWS sends out daily and weekly test (and s om e­times demonstration) signals, which l et anyone with a receiver, such as your Weatheradio, verify that the equipment is working properly.
To find out the specific test schedule in your area, contact your local NOAA or NW S office. Th ose offices are usually listed in the telephone book under
US Government, Department of Commerce
When the Weatheradio’s alert function is turned on and the Weatheradio receives a test broadcast for a FIPS code you programmed into its memory, it re­sponds in one of these ways:
NWS Alert Type Y ou See Y ou Hear
.
Daily Test or Demo
Required We ekly or Monthly SAME Test
Note:
The Weatheradio does not turn on an indicator
Test Test
No sound
Beeps
(WARNING, WATCH, or STATEMENT) during a test/ demo broadcast.
If your Weatheradio is turned on and properly set, but it does not respond to a test broadcast, see “Trouble­shooting” on Page 40.
33
Locking Out Undefined (New or Commercial) Weather Descriptions
The NWS might occasionally broadcast several types of weather information intended for commercial or other non-privat e use. This information could include, for example, messages intended for automated weather services (such as those used by radio or TV stations). Your Weatheradio’s memory does not con­tain a specific, corresponding description for the sig­nals related to these
Additionally, your Weatheradio is designed to recog­nize all common weather alert types currently used by the NWS. The NWS could, however, eventually cre­ate and broadcast Weatheradio’s memory does not contain a specific, corresponding description) .
commercial
new
alert types (for which the
weather types.
If your Weatheradio receives a signal for a type, it is preset (if the alert function is turned on) to display the alert description ren alert. It is not set to alert you when it receives a
commercial
Depending on your preference, you can follow these steps to change the way the Weatheradio responds to new or commercial weat her alert broadcast s.
34
alert type.
TUNE TV
new
alert
and sound a s i-
1. Turn
VOLUME
toward off until it clicks to turn off
the Weatheradio.
2. While holding down
OFF
until it clicks to turn on the Weatheradio.
appears and all colored indicators tur n on.
MODE
STATEMENT
WATCH WARNING
ALERTLEVEL
, turn
YES
OFF
VOLUME
NO
0
WEATHER ALERT
VOLUME
OFF
MAX
to the le ft
TEST-
3. Press a number key to select the desired setting. The Weatheradio sounds a beep.
You
Press:
0
(default)
8
9
T o Set the Weatheradio to:
For new alert type For commercial alert type
For new alert type For comme rcial typ e
(see “Important” on Page 36)
For new alert type For commercial alert type
: sound siren
: no response
: no response
: no response
: sound siren
: sound beeps
35
Important: To ensure your Weatheradio is always set to notify you of a valid emergency, we recommend you causes the Weatheradio to weather alert types
do not
select the setting (8) that
not
respond to new
.
Note: Your Weatheradio can also perform these functions whi le
TESTMODE
• If you press a key from
appears:
, you hear the
1–7
weather broadcast (if any) on that channel (see “Programming the Weatheradio” on Page 14). This does not affect the weather broadcast setting you selected during pro­gramming.
• If you press
, the Weatheradio continu-
ALERT
ously sounds its alert siren. Press again to turn off the siren.
• If you press
WEATHER
, all display characters
appear at t he same time.
4. Turn
VOLUME
towar d off u ntil i t clic ks to turn off the Weatheradio and store your selection. Then turn it back on to begin usi ng the new setting.
ALERT
36
SPECIAL FEATURES
USING CONTINUOUS BACKLIGHT
Your Weatheradio is preset to turn on its display backlight while you listen to the weather broadcast (see “Listening to the Weather Broadcast” on Page 23), and for about 10 seconds each time you press a key. For extended use in low light situati ons, you can set the backlight so it remains on until you turn it off.
To turn the backlight on or off, follow t hese steps.
PROGRAM/OPERATE
1. Set
2. Within 45 seconds, press
TINUO
(continuous) and flash on the display, then press continuous backlight or
STATEMENT
WATCH WARNING
ALERTLEVEL
Note:
If you do not press a key for about 45 sec­onds, the Weatheradio automatically exits the programming mode. Set back to
3. Set
OPERATE
PROGRAM/OPERATE
, then start over at St ep 1.
PROGRAM
to
YES
twice so
BACKLITE
YES
NO
to turn it off.
STATEMENT
WATCH WARNING
ALERTLEVEL
PROGRAM/OPERATE
OPERATE
to
.
.
CON-
alternately
to turn on
37
CONNECTING THE WEATHERADIO TO AN EXTERNAL SYSTEM
Your Weatheradio’s
ALARM OUT
jacks let you con­nect it to an external module interface (Plug ’n Power or X-10, such as RSU 10037745) using twin-lead 20­gauge cable (not supplied), then set the interface to indicate an alert (sound a buzzer or flash a light, for example) on a connected appliance when the Weath­eradio receives a weather emergency alert broad­cast.
Note:
Your local RadioShack store carries a wide se­lection of cable and audible or visible alert accesso­ries you can use with the recommended external module interf ace.
To connect your Weatheradio to an external system, connect the Weatheradio’s positive (+) and negative
ALARM OUT
(–)
quick-connect terminals to the corre-
sponding (+ and –) terminals on the external system.
+
OPERATE
PROGRAM
EXTANT
MODE
ALARMOUT
38
When the Weatheradio’s alert function is turned on and it receives an NWS alert broadcast, the Weath­eradio sends 7.5VDC signal s to the connected mod­ule interface, and an alert sounds on both the Weatheradio and the connected system.
Note: For instructions on operating the external mod­ule interface, see the owner’s manual provided with that system.
39
TROUBLESHOOTING
If your Weatheradio is not working as it should, these suggestions mig ht help you el iminat e the probl em. If it still does not operat e normally, take it to your local RadioShack st ore for assistance.
Problem(s) Suggestion(s)
No power. Ensure the Weatheradio is prop-
erly co nnected to AC power , and that a fresh back-up battery is installed (if AC power has failed).
See “Connecting Power” on Page 7.
No sound. Adjust VOLUME or ALERT
TONE.
See “Operation” on Page 22 or “Setting the Alert Volume” on Page 25.
Multiple FIPS codes are stored in memory, but the radio only responds to the weather alert broadcasts for one code.
40
Ensure SINGLE/MULTIPLE is set to MULTIPLE.
Problem(s) Suggestion(s)
No weat her broad­cast when you press
WEATHER
One or more FIPS codes are st ored i n memory, but the radio responds to weather alert broadcasts for areas by those codes.
covered
not
Ensure that the telescoping antenna is fully extended.
.
See “Usi ng the Antenna” on Page 11.
If you connected an external antenna, ensure that it is con­nected properly and the telescop­ing ant enna is lowered.
See “Connecting an External Antenna” on Page 11.
Ensure the Weatheradio is set to the NOA A ch an nel that is be in g broadc ast in your area.
See “Programming the Weathera­dio” on Page 14
Ensure the Weatheradio’s all-sig­nals code (99) is not stored in memory.
See “U sing the Weat heradio’s ‘All Signals’ Code” on Page 19.
41
Problem(s) Suggestion(s)
The radio is not responding prop­erly to NWS weather alert broadcasts.
Ensure you programmed the cor­rect FIPS code(s) into the Weath­eradio’s memory.
See “Programming the Weathera­dio” on Page 14.
Ensure the display shows
WEATHER ALRT ON
press
ALERT
.
. If not,
See “Using the Alert Function” on Page 24.
Ensure
PROGRAM/OPERATE
set to
OPERATE
Ensure the Weatheradio is set to receive new alert types.
.
is
See “Locking Out Undefined (New or Commercial) Weather Descriptions” on Page 34.
42
Problem(s) Suggestion(s)
CHECK OP
(check operation) appears.
The Weathera­dio’ s continuous alert tone sound s interm ittent or seems to warble.
The Weatheradio has not receiv ed any type of SAME alert signal (including test or demo si g­nals) for about one week. Ensure the FIPS code(s ) stored in mem­ory are va lid/correct.
See “Programming the Weathera­dio” on Page 14.
Ensure t he teles copi ng ant enna is fully extended or the external antenna (if any) is properly con­nected.
See “Usi ng the Antenna” on Page 11.
The Weatheradio constantly mon­itors the channel you set it to, even while it is sounding a contin­uous alert. Each time the Weat h­eradio receives a signal on that channel, it pause s very briefly to compare that signal against those stored in its memor y. If the We ath­eradio pauses frequently (depending on how often it receives a signal ), it might make the Weatheradio’s co ntinuous alert tone sound intermittent.
This is not a malfunction.
43
CARE
Your RadioShack 7-Channel Weatheradio with NWR-SAME Severe-Weather Alert is an example of superior design and craftsmanship. The following suggestions will help you care for your Weatheradio so you can enjoy it for years.
Keep the Weatheradio dry. If it gets wet, wipe it dry immediately. Liquids might contain minerals that can cor­rode the electronic circuits.
Use and store the Weatheradio only in normal temperature environments. Temperature extremes can shorten the life of electronic device s, damage the batteries, and distort or melt plas­tic parts.
Keep the Weatheradio away from dust and dirt, which can cause pre­mature wear of parts.
44
Handle the Weatheradio gently and carefully. Dro pping it can damage cir­cuit boards and cases and can cause the Weatheradio to work i mproperly.
Use only a fresh battery of the re­quired size and recommended type. A battery can leak chemicals that damage your Weatheradio’s elec­tronic parts .
Wipe the Weatheradio with a damp cloth occasionally to keep it looking new. Do not use harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents, or strong deter­gents to clean the Weatheradio.
Modifying or tampering with the Weatheradio’s inter­nal components can cause a malfunction, invalidate its warranty, and void your F CC a uthorization t o oper­ate it. If your Weatheradio is not performing as it should, take it to your local RadioShack store for as­sistance.
45
THE FCC WANTS YOU TO KNOW
Your Weatheradio might cause TV or radio interfer­ence even when it is operati ng properl y. To deter mine whether your Weatheradio is causing the interfer­ence, turn off your Weatheradio. If the interference goes away, your Weatheradio is causing it. Try to eliminate the interference by:
• Moving your Weatheradio away from the TV or radio
• Contacting your local RadioShack store for help
46
SPECIFICATIONS
Frequency Coverage (MHz):
Channel 1 .................................................. 162.400
Channel 2 ................................................. 162.425
Channel 3 ................................................. 162.450
Channel 4 ................................................. 162.475
Channel 5 ................................................. 162.500
Channel 6 ................................................. 162.525
Channel 7 ................................................. 162.550
Receiving Sensitivity (at 12 dB SINAD)................ 0.3 µV
FIPS Code Sensitivity
@ ± kHz Deviation/90% Success Rate ............. 0.25 µV
Signal to Noise Ratio ............................................ 40 dB
Dual Tone Detection Range ..................... 1.2 to 2.4 kHz
Channel Selectivity .............................. ± 25 kHZ, 60 dB
Power Output (Maximum) ................................. 250 mW
Power Supply .................. 120 Volts, 60 Hz, 5 Watts AC
Battery Back-up ................................ One 9-Volt Battery
(Cat. No. 23-553)
Antenna ................................ Telescoping Rod Antenna
Dimensions (HWD) ........................ 5
Weight .............................................................. 17.67 oz
3
/16 × 63/4 × 13/16 in
(13.15 × 17.15 × 2.99 cm)
(501 g)
Specifications are typical; individual units might vary. Specifications are subject to change and improve­ment without notice.
47
Limited Ninety-Day Warranty
y
y
)
This product is warranted by RadioShack against manufacturing defects in material and workmanship under normal use for ninety (90) days from the date of purchase from RadioShack company-owned stores and authorized RadioShack franchisees and dealers. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED HEREIN, RadioShack MAKES NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THOSE OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FIT­NESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE DURATION OF THE WRITTEN LIMITED WARRANTIES CONTAINED HEREIN. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED HEREIN, RadioShack SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY TO CUSTOMER OR ANY OTHER PER­SON OR ENTITY WITH RESPECT TO ANY LIABILITY, LOSS OR DAM­AGE CAUSED DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY BY USE OR PERFORMANCE OF THE PRODUCT OR ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH OF THIS WAR­RANTY, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY DAMAGES RE SULT­ING FROM INCONVENIENCE, LOSS OF TIME, DATA, PROPERTY, REVENUE, OR PROFIT OR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, EVEN IF RadioShack HAS BEEN AD­VISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. Some states do not allow the limitations on how long an implied warrant lasts or the exclusion of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. In the event of a product defect during the warranty period, take the product and the RadioShack sales receipt as proof of purchase date to any Ra­dioShack store. RadioShack will, at its option, unless other wise provided b law: (a)correct the defect by product repair without charge for parts and la­bor; (b) replace the product with one of the same or similar design; or (c) re­fund the purchase price. All replaced parts and products, and products on which a refund is made, become the property of RadioShack. New or recon­ditioned parts and products may be used in the performance of warranty ser­vice. Repaired or replaced parts and products are warranted for the remainder of the original warranty period. You will be charged for repair or replacement of the product made after the expiration of the warranty period. This warranty does not cover: (a) damage or failure caused by or attributable to acts of God, abuse, accident, misuse, improper or abnormal usage, fail­ure to follow instructions, improper installation or maintenance, alteration, lightning or other incidence of excess voltage or current; (b) any repairs other than those provided by a RadioShack Authoriz ed Service Facility; (c consumables such as fuses or batteries; (d) cosmetic damage; (e) transpor­tation, shipping or insuran ce cos ts; or (f) costs of product removal, installa­tion, set-up service adjustment or reinstallation. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
RadioShack Customer Relations, Dept. W,
100 Throckmorton St., Suite 600, Fort Worth, TX 76102
We Se rvi ce What We Se ll
3/97
A Division of Tandy Corporation
Radio Shack
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
4A8 Printed in China
811080940C
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