RCA RP3538 User Manual

For Your Records

In the event that service should be required, you may need both the model number and
the serial number. In the space below, record the date and place of purchase.

Date of Purchase:

Place of Purchase:

Service Information

This product should be serviced only by those specially trained in appropriate servicing
techniques. For instructions on how to obtain service, refer to the warranty included in
this Guide.

Main plug is used as the disconnect device, it shall remain operable and should not be
obstructed during intended used. To be completely disconnected the apparatus from
supply mains, the main plug of the apparatus shall be disconnected from the mains socket
outlet completely.

The descriptions and characteristics given in this document are given as a general indication and not as a
guarantee. In order to provide the highest quality product possible, we reserve the right to make any
improvement or modification without prior notice. The English version serves as the final reference on all
products and operational details should any discrepancies arise in other languages.

Headset safety

• Do not play your headset at a high volume. Hearing experts advise against continuous
extended play.

• If you experience a ringing in your ears, reduce volume or discontinue use.

• Do not use while operating a motorized vehicle or bicycle, it may create a traffic hazard
and is illegal in many areas.

•You should use extreme caution or temporarily discontinue use in potentially
hazardous situations.

• Even if your headset is an open-air type designed to let you hear outside sounds, don't
turn up the volume so high that you can't hear what's around you.

Record

Records continuously when the recorder is in the RECORD mode.

1. Press RECORD button (PLAY button will depress also). Note that your recorder is
equipped with a microcassette sensing mechanism. This mechanism prevents the
RECORD button from being pressed when cassette is not in the recorder. (See Erase
Protection.)

2. Select HI or LO with the MIC sensitivity switch. Recording level may be fine tuned with
the volume control.

3. Speak normally into the microphone. To obtain optimum recording quality, place the
recorder with the microphone freely exposed to sound source and as close as
convenient. A built-in automatic record level control will set record level for optimum
recordings. Avoid recording near unwanted noise sources, such as air conditioners or
fans.

4. Push STOP/EJECT button when finished recording.

TIP: For conferences, to obtain optimum recording quality, place the recorder with the
microphone freely exposed to the sound source and as close as convenient. A built-in
automatic recording level control will set record level for optimum recordings. Avoid
recording near unwanted noise sources, such as air conditioners or fans.

Record with an External Microphone

To record with external microphone, plug the microphone into the MIC JACK. The built-in
microphone is disconnected.

Headphone Jack

Plugging in an optional headphone, the speaker is automatically silenced for private
listening. When recording with the built-in microphone, you can use the optional
headphone to listen to what is being recorded. Note that the headphone jack is designed
to permit use of stereo headphones with your mono recorder. Playback will be heard in
mono only.

Automatic Voice Activated Recording Switch (AVR)

The AVR feature allows the recorder to sense sound and to record only when you are
speaking into the microphone. When dictation stops for approximately 6 seconds, tape
operation will stop. Recording will start again when you resume dictation.

• On position—a tape saver. Ideal feature to allow for hands-free operation during
dictation.

•Off position—The AVR circuit is disconnected and recording is continuous when unit is
in RECORD mode.

Record with AVR On

1. Place the AVR switch in ON position.

2. Press the RECORD button (PLAY button will depress also). Note that your recorder is
equipped with a microcassette sensing mechanism. This mechanism prevents the
RECORD button from being pressed when cassette is not in the recorder. (See Erase
Protection.)

3. Select HI or LO with the MIC sensitivity switch.

4. Adjust the VOLUME control so that the sensitivity of the built-in mic is at the point
where your voice level will just activate the AVR feature and automatically start
recording. The first syllable or two may be lost when you start recording, because this
“sound” is used to turn on the AVR feature. It is a good practice to make some “sound
or say a short word to activate the AVR before you begin actual dictation. Recorder will
automatically stop recording when you cease dictation for a period of approximately 6
seconds.

5. Push STOP/EJECT button when finished recording.

Pause Button

This convenient PAUSE feature is most helpful while recording because you can stop the
recorder momentarily without resetting the control buttons. Depress the PAUSE button to
stop operation in PLAY, RECORD, FFWD, and REW modes. Press button again to resume
operation. Note that if the PAUSE button is activated (depressed) it can also be
deactivated by pressing the STOP button.

Tape Speed

• Normal—is the tape speed which is compatible with

most single-speed microcassette recorders.

• 1/2—doubles the record time and will allow up to 2

hours of recording time when using both sides of a 60
minute (MC-60) microcassette tape.

Tape Play

To listen to your recorded microcassette, rewind to the starting point and press STOP/
EJECT button. Press PLAY and adjust the VOLUME to desired listening level.

Playback Switch

During the PLAY mode, you can speed up the playback of
recording tapes by placing the PLAYBACK switch in:

• FAST—Speed up Playback, 15%-25% faster than normal
playback.

• NORMAL—Playback at normal speed.

Rewind (REW)/ FAST FORWARD (FFWD)

• REW—Slide switch to REW to rewind to beginning or any point of your recording. Press
the STOP/EJECT button after you have rewound the desired amount.

• FFWD—Slide switch to FFWD to advance the tape. Press STOP/EJECT button after you
have reached the desired location on the tape.

Review (REV)/ Cue

This feature is helpful in finding the beginning or the end of the recorded segment on the
tape. While in PLAY mode, Slide and hold the REV or CUE switch and listen for change
from noise to silence (end of recording) or from silence to noise (beginning of recording).
When desired portion has been reached, release the REV or CUE switch.
Use the same procedure if you want to skip a portion or listen to the same segment again.



Thomson Inc.
P.O. Box 1976
Indianapolis, IN 46206-1976
© 2006 Thomson Inc.
Trademark(s) ® Registered
Marca(s) ® Registrada(s)
Marque(s) ® Deposée(s)
www.rca.com
Printed In China / Impreso en China

56418040 (EN/F)

Important Battery Information

• Alkaline batteries are recommended for longer play. Carbon-zinc or nickel cadmium
rechargeable batteries can substantially reduce play time.

• If you’re not going to use your player for a month or more, be sure to remove batteries
because they can leak and damage the unit.

• Dispose of batteries in the proper manner, according to federal, state, and local
regulations.

• Any battery may leak electrolyte if mixed with a different battery type, if inserted
incorrectly, if all batteries are not replaced at the same time, if disposed of in fire, or if
an attempt is made to charge a battery not intended to be recharged.

• Discard leaky batteries immediately. Leaking batteries can cause skin burns or other
personal injury.

Battery Installation

1. Open hinged battery door by pressing down just above the arrow, sliding it as indicated
and lifting up. Note that to avoid damage to the battery door, do not attempt to force
door beyond its normal stopping point.

2. Insert 2 “AA” alkaline batteries into the battery compartment. Be sure each battery is
installed as shown on the battery diagram in the battery compartment.

3. Close the battery door by lowering and sliding door into the closed position.

NOTE: If the recording sounds distorted, or if the tape moves very slowly or not at all,
check the batteries, try AC power or a fresh set of batteries before seeking service (See
Record/Battery Indicator).

AC/DC Power Converter (Not Included)

To save batteries you can use the AC Converter to operate your recorder. The cord plugs
into the DC 3V jack on the recorder and the AC end plugs into a household outlet. When
the AC/DC Converter is used, batteries are automatically disconnected.

Record/ Battery Indicator

• Recording Indicator—Light will remain on when in continuous record mode.

• Battery Condition Indicator—When in the record mode, the brightness level of the light
indicates battery condition. When the indicator is dim or does not light, batteries are
weak and need replacing. Note that the optional AC/DC Converter (5-1751) must be
disconnected from DC 3V jack to check batteries.

Insert or Remove a Microcassette

1. Press the STOP/EJECT button to stop recorder or to open cassette carry door and
remove microcassette. Note that when in play or record mode you must press
STOP/EJECT once to turn player off and again to open the cassette carry door.

2. Insert microcassette into the cassette carry door with the side to be used visible
through cassette door window. Face exposed tape outward and close door. Note that
Rim drive and capstan drive tapes look alike, but only CAPSTAN DRIVE MICROCASSETTE
tapes will work in this recorder.

TIP: Always push STOP/EJECT before storing. This will relieve pressure on certain parts in
the recorder that might deform after long periods of time.

Volume Control

• Adjust the volume when in the PLAY mode to your preferred listening level.

• Adjust the volume when in the RECORD mode to fine tune the sensitivity of the built-in
microphone for record operations.

Mic Sensitivity Switch

This two-position switch enables selection between two microphone sensitivity levels:

• HI —for maximum sensitivity for conferences or general use.

• LO —for a lower sensitivity level for dictation purposes.

Tape buttons

AVR switch

Tape speed switch

IMPORTANT: Tapes must be played back at the same speed

in which they were recorded.

Tape Erase

To erase a tape simply record over the unwanted recording.

Erase Protection

When you record new material, the cassette deck records
over whatever is on a tape. To protect a tape from
accidental erasure, break off one or both plastic tabs (one
for each tape side) on the side of the cassette tape. If you
decide later to record on the tape, seal the hole with a
piece of cellophane tape.

QUIT SLACKING

A little bit of slack in your tapes can cause scratches on the tape, or
worse yet, the tape could break. If you notice some slack in the tape, use
a pencil to tighten it up before you insert it.

Cleaning the Tape Heads

Over time, iron oxide particles from the magnetic tape build up on the parts that come in
contact with the tape. These deposits can cause incomplete erasure, a muffled sound
during playback.
To clean the heads, open the compartment door, push the PLAY button and gently clean
the heads, capstan and pinch wheel with a head cleaner.
Allow 30 minutes drying time when using a liquid cleaner.

A

Erase head

Play/Record head

Capstan

Pinch wheel

Headphone jack

Volume

External MIC jack

Mic sensitivity switch

Tape Speed Switch

Playback Switch

LIMITED WARRANY (US)
What your warranty covers:

• Defects in materials or workmanship.

For how long after your purchase:

• One year from date of purchase.
The warranty period for rental units begins
with the first rental or 45 days from date of
shipment to the rental firm, whichever comes
first.

What we will do:

• Provide you with a new, or at our option, a
refurbished unit. The exchange unit is
under warranty for the remainder of the
original product’s warranty period.

• Proof of purchase in the form of a bill of
sale or receipted invoice which is evidence
that the product is within the warranty
period must be presented to obtain
warranty service. For rental firms, proof of
first rental is also required.

How to make a warranty claim:

• Properly pack your unit. Include any cables,
etc., which were originally provided with
the product. We recommend using the
original carton and packing materials.

• Include evidence of purchase date such as
the bill of sale. Also print your name and
address and a description of the defect.
Send via standard UPS or its equivalent to:

Thomson Inc.
Product Exchange Center
11721 B Alameda Avenue
Socorro, Texas 79927

• Insure your shipment for of loss or damage.
Thomson accepts no liability in case of
damage or loss en route to Thomson.

• Pay any charges billed to you by the
Exchange Center for service not covered by
the warranty.

• A new or refurbished unit will be shipped to
you freight prepaid.

What your warranty does not cover:

• Customer instruction. (Your Owner’s Manual
provides information regarding operating
Instructions and user controls. For
additional information, ask your dealer.)

• Installation and setup service adjustments.

• Batteries.

• Damage from misuse or neglect.

• Products which have been modified or
incorporated into other products.

• Products purchased or serviced outside the
USA.

• Acts of nature, such as but not limited to
lightning damage.

Product Registration:

• Please complete and mail the Product
registration Card packed with your unit. It
will make it easier to contact you should it
ever be necessary. The return of the card is
not required for warranty coverage.

Limitation of Warranty:

• THE WARRANTY STATED ABOVE IS THE
ONLY WARRANTY APPLICABLE TO THIS
PRODUCT. ALL OTHER WARRANTIES,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED (INCLUDING ALL
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
PAR TICULAR PURPOSE) ARE HEREBY
DISCLAIMED. NO VERBAL OR WRITTEN
INFORMATION GIVEN BY THOMSON INC.,
ITS AGENTS OR EMPLOYEES SHALL
CREATE A GUARANTY OR IN ANY WAY
INCREASE THE SCOPE OF THIS
WARRANTY.

• REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT AS PROVIDED
UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS THE
EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE

CONSUMER. THOMSON INC. SHALL NOT
BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING
FROM THE USE OF THIS PRODUCT OR
ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH OF ANY
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY ON
THIS PRODUCT. THIS DISCLAIMER OF
WARRANTIES AND LIMITED WARRANTY
ARE GOVERNED BY THE LAWS OF THE
STATE OF INDIANA. EXCEPT TO THE
EXTENT PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE
LAW, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
PAR TICULAR PURPOSE ON THIS PRODUCT
IS LIMITED TO THE APPLICABLE
WARRANTY PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE.

How state law relates to this warranty:

• Some states do not allow the exclusion nor
limitation of incidental or consequential
damages, or limitations on how long an
implied warranty lasts, so the above
limitations or exclusions may not apply to
you.

• This warranty gives you specific legal rights,
and you also may have other rights that
vary from state to state.

If you purchased your product outside the
USA:

• This warranty does not apply. Contact your
dealer for warranty information.

LIMITED WARRANY (CANADA)

Thomson multimedia Ltd. warrants to the
purchaser or gift recipient that if any
manufacturing defect becomes apparent in this
product within 1 year from the original date of
purchase, it will be replaced free of charge,
including return transportation.
This warranty does not include damage to the
product resulting from accidents, misuse or
leaking batteries.
Should your product not perform properly
during the warranty period, either:

1. Return it to the selling dealer with proof of
purchase for replacement,

OR

2. Remove the batteries (where applicable),
and pack product complete with accessories
in the original carton (or equivalent). —
Mail prepaid (with proof of purchase) and
insured to:

Thomson multimedia Ltd.
6200 Edwards Blvd.,
Mississauga, Ontario, L5T 2V7
Canada

The provisions of this written warranty are in
addition to and not a modification of or
subtraction from the statutory warranties and
other rights and remedies contained in any
applicable legislation, and to the extent that
any such provisions purport to disclaim, exclude
or limit any such statutory warranties and other
rights and remedies, such provisions shall be
deemed to be amended to the extent necessary
to comply therewith.
If you are unable to find a qualified servicer for
out of warranty service, you may write to:

Thomson Inc.
P. O. Box 0944
Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.A., 46206-0944

Attach your sales receipt to this booklet for
future reference. This information is required if
service is needed during the warranty period.

PURCHASE DATE

NAME OF STORE

It is important to read this instruction book prior to using your new product for the first time.

Nous vous recommandons de lire ce manuel d’instructions avant d’utiliser votre nouveau produit pour la première fois.

user

manual

RP3538

Guide de l’utilisateur

Safety Information

Powering the Recorder

Using the Recorder

IMPORTANT: Do not change speed while recording.

Care & Maintenance

Warranty

RP3538 EN (20_10_06) 19/10/06 3:58 PM Page 1

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

THE LIGHTNING
FLASH AND ARROW­HEAD WITHIN THE
TRIANGLE IS A
WARNING SIGN
ALERTING YOU OF
"DANGEROUS
VOLTAGE" INSIDE
THE PRODUCT.

WARNING: 

SHOCK HAZARD,

TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE COVER
(OR BACK). NO USER­SERVICEABLE PARTS IN­SIDE. REFER SERVICING
TO QUALIFIED SERVICE
PERSONNEL.

SEE MARKING ON BOTTOM / BACK OF PRODUCT

TO PREVENT FIRE

DO NOT EXPOSE THIS PR ODUCT

THE EXCLAMATION
POINT WITHIN THE
TRIANGLE IS A
WARNING SIGN
ALERTING YOU OF
IMPORTANT
INSTRUCTIONS
ACCOMPANYING
THE PRODUCT.

OR ELECTRICAL

EJECT

PAUSE

STOP

FFWD

1/2 • • NORMAL

CUE

HI • • LO

VOLUME

MIC

PLAY

REW

REV

REC/
BATT

REC

OFF • • ON

1/2 • • NORMAL

PLAYBACK

NORMAL • • FAST

A