Tera TR-590 User Manual

TERA

User Manual

TR-590

www.tera.co

TERA

User Manual

TR-590

www.tera.co

TERA

2

TERA

Thank you for purchasing TERA model TR-590. This dual-band
VHF/UHF two-way radio features up to 200 channels, 5 watt
output, alpha-numeric display and true dual receive. This radio
can operate up to 20 hours on a single charge with its included
1600 mAh Li-ion battery.

To get the most out of your radio, please read this manual carefully before use.

TR-590

3

Initial Programming

This commercial handheld radio ships from the manufacture “Displayed Locked” per FCC rules.
You must first use the programming software to unlock this radio for the first time of use.
You will need the programming cable to connect your radio to your computer for programming.
Please contact your dealer for radio programming software.

When programming this radio for the first time , it is recommended you first READ the radio with
the software and then save this file for future reference. In addition, after you READ this radio with
software, first make your programming and frequency changes, then send this edited file back to
your radio. Please contact the dealer you purchased this radio from or TERA should you have any
questions.

TERA

4

TERA

Online Service and Support

The TERA website provides additional information about
obtaining service or support for the TERA line of two-way
radios and accessories.

Visit: www.tera.co

TR-590

5

Safety Matters

The following recommendations will help you understand this radios safety requirements.

1. Only qualified TERA technicians are allowed to service this two-way radio. Do not
disassemble the radio by yourself as it will void the warranty.

2. Use only the TERA brand battery pack and desk charger, so as to not damage the
transceiver.

3. Do not expose this radio to long periods of direct sunlight, or hot or humid areas.

4. Do not put this radio in dusty or dirty locations.

5. Do not use harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents, or strong detergent to wash this radio.

6. Never transmit on this radio without an antenna.

Caution

Safety and operability of this radio can’t be guaranteed unless TERA brand accessories or parts

are used.

User Manual

TERA

6

Content

Initial Programming ............................................ 3

Included In Box ..................................................... 9

Getting Acquainted ............................................. 10

Battery Information ............................................ 10

Charge Operation................................................. 11

Antenna Information .......................................... 13

Radio Overview .................................................... 14

Screen ...................................................................... 14

Basic Operations .................................................. 16

Switch ON/OFF .................................................... 16

Volume Adjustment ............................................ 16

Monitor Function ................................................. 17

Make A Call ............................................................ 17

Receive A Call ........................................................ 17

Factory Default ..................................................... 18

Side Key Custom-Setting.................................. 18

Function Shortuts Process ............................... 20

Functions Operating Instructions ................... 25

Scan Mode (MENU 0) ......................................... 25

Squelch Level Setting (MENU 1) .................... 25

Transmit Power Selection (MENU 2) ............ 26

Channel Step Frequency (MENU 3) ............... 26

Wide / Narrow Band Set (MENU 4) ............... 27

Repeater Offset or Shift (MENU 5) ............... 27

Repeater Offset Frequency Dir (MENU 6) .. 28

Receive CTCSS / DCS Code (MENU 7) .......... 28

Transmit CTCSS / DCS Code (MENU 8) ........ 29

Scan Add (MENU 9) ............................................. 29

Scan Method (MENU 10) .................................. 30

Lock (MENU 11) ................................................... 30

Keyboard Auto-lock (MENU 12) ..................... 31

Coded Squelch Freq. Scan (MENU 13) ......... 31

BootSnd (MENU 14) ........................................... 32

Beep Tone Setting (MENU 15) ........................ 32

Flashlight Set (MENU 16) ................................. 33

Auto Backlight Set (MENU 17) ........................ 33

RxTxLED (MENU 18) ........................................... 34

FM Radio (MENU 19).......................................... 34

TR-590

7

FM Radio (MENU 20).......................................... 35

Timer Set (MENU 21) ......................................... 35

Single / Dual Display Mode (MENU 22) ....... 36

Single Display (MENU 23) ................................. 36

Transmit Time Out Timer (MENU 24)........... 37

Busy Channel Lock Out (MENU 25) .............. 37

Squelch Mode (MENU 26) ................................ 38

Squelch-Tail Eliminate (MENU 27) ................ 38

Power Save (MENU 28) ..................................... 39

VOX Control (MENU 29) .................................... 39

VOX Delay (MENU 30) ........................................ 40

Edit & Save Channel Name (MENU 31) ....... 40

Memory Channel Store (MENU 32) .............. 41

Memory Channel Delete (MENU 33) ............ 41

Reset ........................................................................ 42

Reverse Frequency Function ........................... 42

Main Band Operation A/B Switch ................. 42

VFO or Memory Channel Mode ...................... 43

Wired Clone ........................................................... 44

Troubleshooting ................................................... 45

Specification ......................................................... 47

Optional Accessories .......................................... 49

Service and Support ............................................ 50

Warranty and Repair Services ........................ 50

Terms of Warranty .............................................. 52

Warning Notes ...................................................... 54

Safety ....................................................................... 55

TERA

8

Check Product

Please unpack the radio and the included accessories. We recommend that you check the box

for the items listed below to ensure everything is in the box.
Please contact your dealer should any items be missing from the box.

TR-590

9

Included In Box

Radio Antenna Battery Charger

Belt Clip Hand Strap User Manual

TERA

TERA

TERA

10

Getting Acquainted

Battery Information

Battery Type: Li-Ion 1600 mAh Battery. Please charge the included TERA battery for
1-2 hours before use. Leave the radio or battery pack in the supplied charger cup until
the red charging light goes off and the green LED light comes on which indicates the
battery pack is fully charged and ready to use.

Note:

1. Do not short-circuit the battery terminals or dispose the battery in fire. Never attempt to
disassemble the battery pack.

2. Charge the battery in 32-105

F temperature. Otherwise the battery may not fully charge.

3. Turn off the radio before your initial charge. Use of the radio while charging may cause noise

or interfere during reception or transmission.

4. Do not pull/plug the adapter and the battery during charging to avoid interference with the

charging procedure.

5. If the battery life quickly runs down even if it is fully and correctly charged, this means the

battery life is over and this battery will need replacing. Please contact your authorized TERA

dealer to purchase a new battery.

TR-590

11

6. NEVER charge the battery or radio with battery if they are wet. Before charging, you should dry
them off with a towel or cloth to avoid danger.

Warning:

Conductive metals such as jewelry, keys or decorating lace may result in short circuit
and generate a large quantity of heat when coming to contact with battery electrodes.
Treat any battery carefully especially when placing it into pocket, wallet or other metal
container as they can short out.

Charge Operation

Please charge as follows:

1. Turn off the radio.

2. Plug the AC connector of adapter into an AC output socket

TERA

12

3. Vertically insert the battery or radio equipped with battery into the charger. Make sure the
charger and battery is well contacted.

4. After the radio and/or battery are inserted into the charger, the LED glows red and that means

the charger is ready for normal charging; if the LED flashes red, it means the remaining battery

power is too low and a trickle charge is in process. After the battery power has reached a
certain amount during trickle charge, the charger automatically turns to normal (fast) charge
mode (solid Red colored LED).

5. The battery is fully charged (97%-100%) when LED glows green. The charger stops charging

automatically.

Caution when Charging the Battery

1. The battery is not fully charged from the factory. Please charge the battery before initial use or

after long-period of storage.

2. Repeat charging 2 to 3 times will make the battery reach its best capacity. Please replace or

Note

Trickle charge is not allowed to exceed 30 minutes. If the LED is still flashing in red after 30

minutes, it means that the charger cannot provide power to the battery. Check if the battery or
charger is damaged.

TR-590

13

charge the battery if battery power is low.

3. The supplied Li-ion battery includes a (6) six month warranty and is good for typically 400-500

charging cycles.

Antenna Information

The supplied flexible antenna is suitable for standard-distance communications. TERA
also offers extended length higher gain antennas to increase your communications
range. For more information about available accessories, visit: www.tera.co

CAUTION

Radio communication range may be greatly reduced when operating inside of concrete

structures like buildings and parking structures.

TIP

When storing radio for more then 3 weeks at a time, it is best to remove the TERA battery from

radio. This will maintain a full charge in battery so it’s ready for use. Batteries will hold a charge
6-12 months when removed from radio.

TERA

14

Radio Overview

Screen

Receive-Working

A/B Switch

Full

Power Remaining

Battery Status Indicator:

Battery exhausted. Please change out battery or charge it..

+/

Transmitter-Working

Signal Strength Indication

Low Power

Middle Power

High Power

CDCSS Signaling

CTCSS Signaling

Reverse Frequency

DTMF Encoder

- Receive Frequency Dispersion

VOX
Dual Receiver Mode
Tone

Keyboard Lock
Battery Power Indicator
Channel or Function Number
Channel Scan

/

Add

Channel Number

Busy Channel Lock

/

Unlock

Indicative Narrowband Channels

TR-590

15

PPT K ey
Programmable SK1
Programmable SK2
Earphone / Speaker Mic Jack
Antenna
Channel Selector
Flashlight
LCD
Function Key
Number Keys
Up/Down key
Power Switch

/Volume Control of the

top frequency

bottom frequency

LED Indicator
Speaker
Microphone
Exit
Lock

1

2

3

4

5

6 12 13

7

8

9

1

0

1717

16

15

14

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

11

Volume Control of the

TERA

TERA

TERA

1

2

TERA

16

Basic Operations

Switch ON/OFF

Rotate the top right knob clockwise until a “Du” sound and a “Ka Ta” sound, to confirm
that the radio’s power is on; Rotate the top right knob counter-clockwise until a “Ka Ta”
sound means to turn off the radio.

Volume Adjustment

Rotate the power control button/volume controller clockwise to
turn on the radio, rotate further to adjust the desired volume.

TR-590

17

Monitor Function

A weak signal that is hardly heard during normal operation process can be monitored by
pressing [bottom left side key]. Volume can be adjusted by rotating the power control
button/volume controller even if there is lack of signal. Release [bottom left side key] to
go back to normal radio operation.

Make A Call

To make a call, hold down [PTT] key and speak into the microphone with normal voice.
Please keep the microphone 3 to 5 inches away from your mouth.

Note:

1. Hold down [PTT] key and the LED glows red, the radio begins to transmit.

2. If LED flashes red during TX, the battery needs re-charging. The radio can not transmit when

battery is low. Reduce your TX power level or recharge the battery

as soon as possible.

Receive A Call

Release [PTT] key to receive a call. Adjust squelch in programing to recieve signal.

TERA

18

Emergency Alert Function

This function is enabled by key settings and/or your dealer. Long press [Middle key] to
activate this function. The radio will send out alarm and make alarm sound.

Factory Default

Short-press SK1 key, to enable flashing flashlight; Long-press SK1 key, to turn the
flashlight on.

Side Key Custom-Setting

The User can set customization features for side key (SK1, SK2) with the software.
Long-press can set the following function:
Choose: Momentary monitoring; Timer; Scan; FM Radio; Anti-interference scanning;
Alarm; Flashlight

Short-press can set the following function:
Choose: Quiet monitoring; Timer; Scan; FM Radio; Anti-interference scanning; Alarm;

TR-590

19

TERA

20

Function Shortuts Process

ID Name

Function
Shortcut

Screen Display Setting Select Optional Paramenter

Confrim
Setting

Return to
Standby

0 Scan Mode “MENU” + “0”

Press

or to start scan functions

“A/B EXIT”

1 Squelch Level

Setting

“MENU” + “1”

“MENU”

Press or
to select

Set Squelch Level 0-9;
Default Squelch Level = 5

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

2 Transmit

Power

“MENU” + “2” “MENU”

Press or
to select

HIGH: high power;
MID: medium;
LOW: low power output

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

3 Step

Frequency

“MENU” + “3” “MENU”

Press or
to select

Step Frequency: 2.5kHz, 5kHz,

6.25kHz, 10kHz, 12.5kHz,
25kHz, 50kHz, 100kHz

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

4 Wide /

Narrow Band

“MENU” + “4” “MENU”

Press or
to select

WIDE: wide band (25kHz)
NARROW: narrow band
(12.5kHz)

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

5 Repeater

Offset
Frequency

“MENU” + “5” “MENU”

Press or
to select

0~99.995 MHz optional.

00.600 MHz for VHF

05.000 MHz for UHF

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

6 Repeater

Shift
Direction

“MENU” + “6” “MENU”

Press or
to select

+: plus frequency shift

-: minus frequency shift
OFF: No TX shift (simplex)

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

7 Receive

CTCSS/DCS
Tone

“MENU” + “7” “MENU”

Press or
to select tone.
Press # to
choose between

CTCSS, DCS, OFF

50 sets of CTCSS tones
(67.0Hz~254.1Hz)
105 sets digital tones (D023N~
D754N) 105 sets reverse digital
tones (D023I~D754I)

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

TR-590

21

8 Transmit

CTCSS/DCS
Tone

“MENU” + “8” “MENU”

Press or
to select tone.
Press # to
choose between

CTCSS, DCS, OFF

50 sets of CTCSS tones
(67.0Hz~254.1Hz)
105 sets digital tones (D023N~
D754N) 105 sets reverse digital
tones (D023I~D754I)

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

9 Add Channel

To Scan

“MENU” + “9”

“MENU”

Press or
to select

ON: scan add
OFF: scan delete

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

10 Scan Method “MENU” + “10” “MENU”

Press or
to select

TO: time scan
CO: carrier scan
SE: search for scan

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

11 Select Lock

Mode

“MENU” + “11” “MENU”

Press or
to select

All
DIAL
KEY

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

12 Keypad

Automatic
Locking

“MENU” + “12” “MENU”

Press or
to select

ON: turn on
OFF: turn off

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

13 CTCSS/DCS

Tone Search

“MENU” + “13” “MENU”

Press or
to select

CTCSS / DCS Tone Scanning “MENU” “A/B EXIT”

14 Power-Up

Sound

“MENU” + “14” “MENU”

Press or
to select

“1” “2” or “3” startup tones.
Default selection is “1”.

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

ID Name

Function
Shortcut

Screen Display Setting Select Optional Paramenter

Confrim
Setting

Return to
Standby

TERA

22

15 Tone Setting “MENU” + “15” “MENU”

Press or
to select

OFF: no tone
ON: ”beeb” tone

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

16 Flash Light “MENU” + “16” “MENU”

Press or
to select

ON: turn on
OFF: turn off

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

17 Automatic

Backlight

“MENU” + “17” “MENU”

Press or
to select

ON: keeps backlight turned on
AUTOKEY: turn on backlight
when key pressed
AUTOALL: all action including
side key and signal-receipt turn
on backlight
OFF: keeps automatic backlight
turned off

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

18 RxTxLED “MENU” + “18”

“MENU”

Press or
to select

ON: turn on
OFF: turn off

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

19 FM Radio “MENU” + “19” “MENU”

Press or
to select

ON: FM radio on
OFF: FM radio off

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

20 FM Radio

Monitor Mode

“MENU” + “20” “MENU”

Press or
to select

ON: receive
OFF: receive disabled

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

21 Timer “MENU” + “21” “MENU”

Press or
to select

ON: turn on
OFF: turn off

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

ID Name

Function
Shortcut

Screen Display Setting Select Optional Paramenter

Confrim
Setting

Return to
Standby

TR-590

23

ID Name

Function
Shortcut

Screen Display Setting Select Optional Paramenter

Confrim
Setting

Return to
Standby

22 RX Mode “MENU” + “22” “MENU”

Press or
to select

SINGLE: single receive mode
DUAL: dual receive mode

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

23 SglDisp “MENU” + “23” “MENU”

Press or
to select

VOLTAGE or BLANK
Default selection is VOLTAGE.

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

24 TX Timer “MENU” + “24” “MENU”

Press or
to select

OFF: close; 30s, 60s,
90s, 120s,150s, 180s,
210s, 240s, 270s, 300s

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

25 Busy Channel

Lock Out

“MENU” + “25” “MENU”

Press or
to select

Busy channel lock-out function
on or off;
Default is off

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

26 Sql Mode “MENU” + “26”

“MENU”

Press or
to select

1, 2, or 3;
Default selection is 2

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

27 Voice Tail

Eliminate

“MENU” + “27” “MENU”

Press or
to select

Turns off CTCSS TX before unkey
Default is off

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

28 RX Power

Save

“MENU” + “28” “MENU”

Press or
to select

OFF: close
SIMPLE: regular power
consumption
AUTO: smart power
consumption

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

TERA

24

ID Name

Function
Shortcut

Screen Display Setting Select Optional Paramenter

Confrim
Setting

Return to
Standby

29 VOX Setting “MENU” + “29” “MENU”

Press or
to select

VOX level 1~9
OFF: turns VOX off

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

30 VOX Delay

Time

“MENU” + “30” “MENU”

Press or
to select

0.3s~5.0s; “MENU” “A/B EXIT”

31 Channel Name

Edit

“MENU” + “31” “MENU”

Press or
to select

Edits the current name of the
channel

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

32 Memory

Channel Store

“MENU” + “32” “MENU”

Press or
to select

Save the current frequency into
a memory channel

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

33 Memory

Channel
Delete

“MENU” + “33” “MENU”

Press or
to select

Deletes the selected memory
channel

“MENU” “A/B EXIT”

All menu operation is to press “MENU” key to confirm, and press “Exit” key to quit. Use knob or
keys to select, long-press 2 sec. into quick select mode in the select interface of menu.

TR-590

25

Functions Operating Instructions

Scan Mode (MENU 0)

Press “MENU” + number 0 in standby mode, and the radio will start scanning.

Squelch Level Setting (Sql Levl ● MENU 1)

Squelch Level Setting is to choose to open or close squelch when signal strength is
strong or weak. A high squelch setting will block weak signals. A setting too low will
exposes you to noise or other unrelated signals. There is 0~9 levels, 1=low, 9=highest.
Among them, level 0 is always open squelch. A setting of “5” is the default squelch set­ting for this radio.

Press “MENU”+ number 1 in standby mode, screen displays:

Then, press “MENU”, arrow points to number 4, press to select squelch level, then
press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby mode.

TERA

26

Transmit Power Selection (Tx Power ● MENU 2)

Press “MENU” + number 2 in standby mode, screen displays:

Right after, press “MENU”, arrow points “High” place, press to select HIGH /
MID / LOW mode, press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby. (High=5W,
Mid=2.0W, Low=0.5W)

Channel Step Frequency Setting (Step ● MENU 3)

Press “MENU” + number 3 in standby mode, screen displays:

Then, press “MENU”, arrow points “5K” place, press to select required step
frequency, press “Menu” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby. There are eight step
frequencies to select: 2.5K, 5K, 6.25K, 10K, 12.5K, 25K, 50K, 100K Hz

TR-590

27

Wide / Narrow Band Set (Bndwdth ● MENU 4)

Press “MENU” + number 4 in standby mode, screen displays:

Right after, press “Menu”, arrow points “WIDE” place, press to select NARROW 12.5K
or WIDE 25K, press “Menu” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby.

Repeater Offset or Shift Amount (Offset ● MENU 5)

Repeater Shift or Offset amount means the difference between transmitting frequen­cy and receiving frequency. Shift amount for this radio is 0~99.995MHz. Typical shift
amount are 0.600 on VHF and 5.000 MHz on UHF which are the default settings.

Press “MENU” + number 5 in standby mode, screen displays:

Then, press “ Menu”, arrow points “00.000” place, press to select frequency of Shift
Frequency, or input it by keyboard, press “Menu” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to
standby.

TERA

28

Repeater Offset Frequency Direction (Rpt Dir ● MENU 6)

Press “MENU” + number 6 in standby mode, screen displays:

At that instant, press “ MENU”, arrow points “OFF” place, press to select one of OFF
/ + / - mode, press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby.
Radio won’t transmit if the transmission Shift Frequency is above or below the allowable
range. Under this condition, please adjust receive frequency or frequency difference of
the Shift Frequency into allowable range.

Receive CTCSS / DCS Code Set (Rx Tone ● MENU 7)

Press “MENU” + number 7 in standby mode, screen displays:

Right after, press “ MENU”, arrow points “OFF”, and press # key to select CTCSS or DCS
Receive code, or press to select one of 67.0 Hz/D023N/D023I , press “MENU” to
confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby.

TR-590

29

Transmit CTCSS / DCS Code Set (Tx Tone ● MENU 8)

Press “MENU” + number 8 in standby mode, screen displays:

Then, press “ MENU”, arrow points “OFF”, and press # key to select CTCSS or DCS
Receive code, or press to select one of 67.0 Hz/D023N/D023I , press “MENU” to
confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby.

Scan Add (ScnSkip ● MENU 9)

Press “MENU” + number 9 in standby mode, screen displays:

Then, press “MENU”, arrow points “ON”, press to select ON to add
current channel into scan list , or select “OFF” to delete current channel from scan list,
press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby.

TERA

30

Scan Method (Scn Mode ● MENU 10)

CO: carrier scan, stop scan when get signal and continue to scan if exceed scan-pause
time when signal is lost

SE: searching scan, scan and save when get signal, quit scan mode.
TO: time scan, continue to scan if exceed scan-pause time whether signal is lost or not.
Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select

“Menu 10”, screen displays:

Next, press “MENU”, arrow points “CO”, press to select one of CO / SE / TO meth­od, press “MENU” to confirmed, press “EXIT” back to standby. “CO” is the default scan
mode.

Lock (Lock ● MENU 11)

The lock feature allows you to select which parts of the radio
will lock when you press the front keypad lock icon. User can
select “KEY” which will lock the keypad but user can still rotate top channel knob. “DIAL”
locks the top selector knob but keypad is still active. “ALL” locks the keypad and top
selector knob. Default selection is “ KEY” which locks the keypad only.

TR-590

31

Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select “Menu 11”. Right after, press
the “MENU” button and rotate the top selector knob the select (KEY, DIAL, or ALL). After
making a selection press “MENU” again to confirm selection and exit the menu.

Keyboard Auto-lock (AutoLck ● MENU 12)

Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select
“Menu 12”, the screen displays:

Right after, press “MENU”, arrow points “OFF”, press to select OFF to turn off this
function or turn it on, press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby.

Coded Squelch Frequency Scan (TnSrch ● MENU 13)

Coded Squelch Frequency Scan accompanied with working frequency, CTCSS: Analog
anti-interference; DCSI: reverse digital tamper-proof code. It shows “CT” sign when
scan CTCSS, shows “DCS” sign when scan DCS N, shows “search” when searching, then
screen displays CTCSS or DCS code scanned.

Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select
“Menu 13”, screen displays:

TERA

32

Then, press “ MENU”, arrow points “CTCSS”, and press to select one of CTCSS/DCS I/
DCS N mode, press “MENU” to confirm. Radio will scan tones and display on screen. To
cancel press MENU.

BootSnd (BootSnd ● MENU 14)

The BootSnd function allows the user to select one of three
tone sequences when the radio is turned ON. User can select
“1” “2” or “3” startup tones. Default selection is “1”.

Press “MENU” then rotate the top selector knob to select “Menu 14”. Right after, press
the “MENU” button and rotate the top selector knob the select (“1” “2” or “3”). After
making a selection press “MENU” again to confirm selection and exit the menu.

Beep Tone Setting (Beep ● MENU 15)

Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob
to select “Menu 15”, screen displays:

Then, press “MENU”, arrow points “ON”, press to select OFF, turn off beep tone, or
select ON, turn on the beep tone, press “MENU” again to confirm selection and exit the
menu.

TR-590

33

Flashlight Set (FlashLt ● MENU 16)

Press “MENU” then rotate the top selector knob to select “Menu 16”, screen displays:

At that instant, press “MENU”, arrow points “OFF”, press to select to turn flashlight
on or off. Press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby.

Auto Backlight Set (Lamp ● MENU 17)

Auto backlight set will turn off backlight if no action after 6 secs. OFF: turn off;
AUTOKEY: turn on backlight when keyboard is operating; AUTOALL: turn on backlight if
there is any action, including in receiving signal.

Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select “Menu 17”, screen displays:

Then, press “MENU”, arrow points “KEY”, press to select one of these options: AUTO­KEY / OFF / AUTOALL, press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby.

TERA

34

RxTxLED (RxTxLED ● MENU 18)

The feature allows you to select if the blue LED lights ON
when receiving a signal and red LED light comes on while
transmitting. User may turn OFF the LED lights during Rx
or TX. Default selection is “ON”.

Press “MENU” then rotate the top selector knob to select “Menu 18”. Right after, press
the “MENU” button and rotate the top selector knob to select (ON or OFF). After making
a selection press “MENU” again to confirm selection and exit the menu.

FM Radio (FM Radio ● MENU 19)

Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select
“Menu 19”, screen displays:

Next, press “MENU”, arrow points “ON” place, press to select ON to turn on this
function or select “OFF” to this function OFF, press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” to
return to standby.

TR-590

35

FM Radio (FM Mon ● MENU 20)

Turns on the FM Radio receiver. The FM frequency is shown on the display with the
previous master frequency of the radio in standby priority channel and is watched
continuously. If a carrier is detected on the master frequency the radio switches to that
frequency and only reverts back to the FM Radio after 3 seconds of no signal.

OFF: Rado is only working in the frequency currently displayed.
Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select

“Menu 20”, screen displays:
Then, press “MENU”, arrow points “ON”, press to select one of ON / OFF, press
“MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby.

Timer Set (Timer ● MENU 21)

Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select
“Menu 21”, screen displays:

Right after, press “MENU”, arrow points “ON”, press to select ON to turn on this func­tion or select “OFF” to turn this function OFF, press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” to
return to standby. Press # to start/stop timer. Press “EXIT” to clear timer.
Press “EXIT” two times to cancel timer and return to normal operation.

TERA

36

Single / Dual Display Mode (SubDisp ● MENU 22)

Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select
“Menu 22”, screen displays:

At that instant, press “MENU”, arrow points “DUAL”, press to select single
receive mode (only show 1 frequency), or dual receive mode (show two frequencies),
press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby.

Single Display / Battery Voltage (SglDisp ● MENU 23)

The feature allows user to select if they want Battery Voltage
displayed or Blank when operating in the Single Display mode.
Operating in the single display mode will greatly extend the radio’s battery life and oper­ation time between recharging. Default selection is “VOLTAGE”.

Press “MENU” then rotate the top selector knob to select “Menu 23”. Right after, press
the “MENU” button and rotate the top selector knob the select (VOLTAGE or BLANK).

After making a selection press “MENU” again to confirm selection and exit the menu.

TR-590

37

Transmit Time Out Timer (TOT ● MENU 24)

Purpose of TOT function is to stop the radio’s transmit after a pre-set amount of time.
Settable range of emission limit is 30~300 sec. Default TOT timer is set to 120 seconds.

Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select
“Menu 24”, screen displays:

At that instant, press “MENU”, arrow points “OFF”, press to select OFF to turn off
TOT or TOT level you need, press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby.

Busy Channel Lock Out (BCLO ● MENU 25)

OFF: turn off the function; WAVE: carrier lock, prohibit transmitting when receives
signal; QT \ DQT: prohibit transmitting if anti-interference code is wrong, QT \ DQT
menu item is only displayed when anti-interference code function is available.

Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select
“Menu 25”, screen displays:

Then, press “MENU”, arrow points “OFF”, press to select one of OFF / WAVE mode,
press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby.

TERA

38

Squelch Mode (Sql Mode ● MENU 26)

The feature allows user to select the master squelch mode
by selecting ( “1” “2” or “3”). Selection “1” will generally have
the loosest squelch setting which allows the weakest signals. Selecting “2” will tighten
the overall squelch and selecting “3” will only allow the stronger signals to come through
your handhelds speaker. Default selection is “2”.

Press “MENU” then rotate the top selector knob to select “Menu 26”. Right after, press
the “MENU” button and rotate the top selector knob the select (“1” “2” or “3”). After
making a selection press “MENU” again to confirm selection and exit the menu.

Squelch-Tail Eliminate (Sql Tail ● MENU 27)

Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select
“Menu 27”, screen displays:

Then, press “MENU”, arrow points “ON”, press to select ON to turn on this function
or select “OFF” to this function OFF, press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” to return to
standby.

TR-590

39

Power Save (PwrSave ● MENU 28)

Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select“Menu 28”, screen displays:

At that instant, press “MENU”, arrow points “AUTO”, press to select one of AUTO
smart save / simple ordinary save / OFF mode, press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT”
back to standby. Default is “OFF”.

VOX Control (VOX ● MENU 29)

Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select “Menu 29”, screen displays:

Soon after, press “MENU”, arrow points “OFF”, press to select OFF to close VOX or
select level 1~9 to turn on VOX level, press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” to return
back to standby.

TERA

40

VOX Delay (VOX Del ● MENU 30)

Settable Range of VOX delay is 0.3~5.0 sec, long-press UP / DOWN key for 2 sec go into
quick-select mode.

Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select
“Menu 30”, screen displays:
Next, press “MENU”, arrow points “2.0S”, press to select delay time, press “MENU”
to confirm selection, press “EXIT” back to standby.

Edit & Save Channel Name (Ch Name ● MENU 31)

User can edit name of saved channel. This function is unavailable in frequency mode.
Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select
“Menu 31”, screen displays:

Then, press “MENU”, arrow points down and character position starts to blink. Press

to select character (“0~9”,”A~Z”,”-“), then press “*” to move left, press “#” to move

right, press “MENU” to confirm selection, press “EXIT” back to standby.

TR-590

41

Memory Channel Store (Save Ch ● MENU 32)

Save current frequency into selected channel. User can input channel number by key­board. In frequency mode, it only saves transmitting frequency if exists the same
frequency with one you selected, receive frequency does not change. In non-frequency
mode, transmitting and receive frequency will be saved into selected channel.

Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select
“Menu 32”, the screen displays:

Right after, press “MENU”, arrow points to “CH-001”, press to select the
channel you want to save, press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby.

Memory Channel Delete (Del Ch ● MENU 33)

Channel list only displays already existing channel. This function is unavailable in
frequency mode. Press “MENU”, then rotate the top selector knob to select
“Menu 33”, screen displays:

Next, press “MENU”, arrow points to “CH-001”, press to select the channel you want
to delete, press “MENU” to confirm, press “EXIT” back to standby.

TERA

42

Reset

Turn off the radio, press “EXIT“ key and then turn on the radio, upper line on the screen
shows ”RESET?”, lower line shows “VFO”. Press “MENU”, to make a choice by pressing
key or step control key. Press “MENU” again to confirm until the lower line on the
screen shows “ALL”, then the lower line will display “WAIT”, now it begins to clear all
settings and channel memories, default settings from factory. The radio will enter
factory MR mode automatically after all settings are cleared up.

Reverse Frequency Function

MR mode/ VFO mode, long press “*” key for two seconds a symbol “R” will appear on the
top of the screen, which means reverse function is on. Long press “*” again for another
two seconds, “R” will disappear. Tx and Rx frequency as well as CTCSS/CDCSS will
exchange when reverse frequency function is on.

Main Band Operation A/B Switch

MR mode/ VFO mode, press “EXIT” key will switch between top and bottom display.
A triangle symbol “ “ and “ “ will appear on top of the screen, which represents current
frequency.

TR-590

43

VFO or Memory Channel Mode

Press “*” key to switch between VFO and MR mode, and Channel Name mode. MR+VFO
mode and Channel Name mode can be accessible, only if at least there is one channel
has been stored into a memory. In VFO mode, the frequency can be entered. Press “EXIT”
key to delete the previous figure. In MR mode, use the keyboard to input pre-set oper­ation frequency. In Channel Name mode, if there is no such option as setting channel
name then the screen will display “CH-N”. N stands for the current channel.

TERA

44

Wired Clone

1. Turn clone function by programming software or
contact your local dealer.

2. Connect source radio and target radio with clone cable,
and turn target radio on.

3. Hold down [Side Key] on Source Radio, then power
it up. About 3 seconds later, the LED glows red,
which means the Source Radio is ready for cloning.

4. Press [Side Key] on Source Radio again, and the
LED on Source Radio flashes red and LED on Target
Radio flashes green.The LED on Target Radio goes
out when the cloning is finished.

5. Replace the Target Radio with another, then press
[Side Key] on Source Radio to begin cloning.

Tip

If the LEDs on both Source Radio and Target Radio flashes red and green alternatively, it means

the cloning has failed.

Source Radio Target Radio

TERA

TERA

TR-590

45

Troubleshooting

Please check the radio with the troubleshooting chart below to correct any issues.

Fault Possible Causes Solution

Radio will not turn ON 1. Battery is not installed correctly

2. Battery power is exhausted

3. Battery aging

1. Install the battery again

2. Charge battery for two hours

3. Purchase a new battery

Receiving light remains on, but the
speaker is silent

1. Volume switch is turned down

2. CTCSS enc/decode wrong

1. Check and adjust volume

2. Ensure you use the correct
mute method

3. Ensure you have the correct
CTCSS/CDCSS tone in use or
turned off

No audio from radio speaker 1. Tighten the antenna

2. The local radio FM signal is too
weak

1. Screw antenna down until snug

2. Move to place where radio
signal is strong

3. Press key to reset radio, then
press key to select the radio
frequency

TERA

46

Keypad and the PTT key is
unresponive

1. The lock function could be
turned on

2. You could be in FM radio mode

1. Unlock keypad

2. If display indicates “FM”, then
exit FM radio mode

Receiving light remains on, and
you can’t transmit

1. BCLO could be turned on 1. Turn off BCLO

You can’t save a setting 1. You might be in channel mode 1. Change to frequency mode

Radio is transmitting while no one
is talking

1. VOX level is set to low (too
sensitive)

1. Turn VOX off, or set it to a higher
level

Receive voice or interferences 1. You may set a wrong frequency

2. Others on that frequency use
the same CTCSS/CDCSS tone

1. Double check your frequency,
change to a different one,
if needed

2. Choose a different CTCSS/
CDCSS tone

TR-590

47

Specication

Frequency Range VHF: 136 ~ 174 MHz (Rx/Tx)

UHF: 400 ~ 470 MHz (Rx/Tx)

Channel Number 199 Channels

Voltage DC 6.6 V ~ 8.4 V

Termperature
Range

-25 C ~ 55 C

Operation Single or Dual Receive

Output Power VHF: 5/3/.5 W; UHF: 5/2/.5 W

Modulation Wide / Narrow Band

Max. Deviation ≤±5 KHz for Wide Band

≤±2.5 KHz for Narrow Band

Residual Wave
Transmit

≤-36 dB

Frequency Stability ±2.5 PPM

Receiving
Sensitivity

0.2 μV ( ≥18 dB )

Max. Audio Power

≥700 mW

Weight

237g

Dimension

124x62x36 mm

Note

Without notice, specification are subject to change, according to technological improvements.

TERA

48

TR-590

49

Optional Accessories

Ext Gain Antenna USB Programming Cable Cloning Cable

Stubby Antenna

TERA

50

Service and Support

TERA Radio provides warranty and non-warranty support for this radio and accessories.

Warranty and Repair Services

1. TERA two-way radio body has an industry leading 2-year warranty. Radio accessories
(battery, charge adapter, charger and antenna, speaker mics) include a 6 month
warranty from date of purchase.

2. The radio warranty of 2-years is in effect from the original purchase date on the sales
receipt or invoice.

3. Repair or Replacement is available provided the original purchaser’s sales receipt copy
is included when the radio or accessories are sent in for repairs.

4. Replacement and repair or radios and accessories is provided at the discretion of TERA
radio

5. All repaired parts have its own warranty of 90-days from the repair date or the original
radio warranty depending on the longer one is valid.

TR-590

51

6. The warranty is only valid using this radio for normal use. And guaranty is unavailable
under such conditions: dissembling or modifications, damages caused by outside
force, water or moisture and usage of unapproved accessories or antenna, not
according to the instruction manual and so on.

7. Warranty is void if the TERA label or Serial Number label is missing or torn off.

Caution

1. Read the user manual before use the radio.

2. Do not use the radio with damaged antenna. Use the radio only with standard
antenna.

3. Turn off the radio in potential dangerous environment.

4. Avoid the contact between battery and metal objects, oily objects or corrosive objects.

5. Do not dip the radio or battery into water or throw them in fire.

6. Use the radio only with standard battery, adapter, charger and earphone.

TERA

52

Terms of Warranty

1. TERA two-way radio body has an 2-year guarantee; accessories (battery, charge
adapter, charger and antenna), earphone 6 months.

2. Only the original purchasing sales receipt or valid dealer’s invoice (The invoice will give
clear indication of items purchased and the radio serial-number, and purchasing date).

3. Replacement and repair is available subject to the presentation of original purchasing
invoice in case that the radio cannot work normally as the instruction says within 30
days from the purchase date. (Note that there must not be visible abrasion on radio
body and accessories.

4. Repair of accessories (battery, adapter, charger and antenna) is available to the
presentation of original purchasing invoice.

5. The cost of materials and labor for repair are covered in warranty.

6. Warranty is void in case that the TERA mark or the serial-number mark is torn off.

7. Warranty is void in cases below:

1) Beyond the warranty period;

2) Defects or damages under abnormal use;

3) Defects or damages because of mis-operation, accident, water penetration

TR-590

53

and carelessness;

4) Defects or damages because of incorrect testing, operation, repair, installation,
reconfiguration or adjustment;

5) Defects or damages to antenna because of non-material or non-processing
problems;

6) Defects or damages because of unauthorized repair and disassembling;

7) Product that the serial-number marks is torn off or unable to identify;

8) Product with unclear purchasing date on original sales receipt.

9) Battery under such conditions:
a. Any damages or unsealing to the battery pack;
b. Defects or damages to battery because of charging with improper equipment

or use beyond regulated maintain condition;

10) Abrasion under normal use.

TERA

54

Warning Notes

Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this document is complete,
accurate, and up to-date. TERA Radio assumes no responsibility for the results of errors
beyond its control. The manufacturer of this equipment also cannot guarantee that
changes in the equipment made by non-authorized users will not affect the information
in it.

FCC Licensing Information

This TERA radio operates on Commercial / Land Mobile frequencies which require a
license from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for business, personal, edu­cation and recreational use. To obtain forms, call the FCC forms hotline at:
1-800-418-3676 or go to http://www.fcc.gov.
For questions concerning commercial licensing, contact the FCC at 1-888-CALL-FCC
(1-888-225-5322).

TR-500

55

Safety

The TERA TR-590 handheld transceiver has been carefully designed to provide you with
years of safe, reliable operation. As with all electrical equipment, however, there are a
few basic precautions you should take to avoid hurting yourself or damaging the radio:

• Read the instructions in this handbook carefully. Be sure to save it for future reference.

• Read and follow all warning and instruction labels on the radio and owner’s manual.

• Do not carry the transceiver by the antenna. This may damage the antenna or antenna
terminal. Grasp the handheld by its base (not the antenna) when you need to place or
remove it.

• Do not keep the radio with the antenna very close to, or touching exposed parts of the
body, while transmitting. TERA radios will perform best, if you speak 2-4 inches away
from the microphone and the radio is vertical.

• Be sure the “PTT” key is not pressed when you do not need to transmit.

• Do not operate the radio near unshielded electrical blasting caps or in an explosive
atmosphere.

• Do not transmit without the antenna fitted on the radio. Though it is provided with a
protection, it may damage the TX output final stage.

TERA

56

• Respect the environment conditions. The radio is designed to be used in heavy
environments, however avoid exposing it to extremely hot or cold temperature (out of
the range between –20 to +140°F). Do not expose the transceiver to excessive
vibrations as well as dusty or rainy locations.

• Never try to disassemble or service the radio by yourself (aside from the routine
maintenance described in this handbook). It may cause damage to the radio transceiver
and void your warranty requiring extensive repair work. Always contact your local
dealer for assistance.

• Use only authorized accessories. Using non TERA radio brand accessories may
seriously damage your handheld transceiver and void your warranty.

• Do Not spill liquid of any kind into your radio. If the transceiver gets wet, immediately
dry it by a soft and clean cloth.

• Switch the radio off before you clean it. Follow the directions described in the
paragraph “Care and maintenance”.

• Handle the battery properly. Never place the LI-ion battery in your pocket or purse with
loose coins. This could result in short circuiting the battery.

• Be certain that your power source matches the rating listed for the supplied battery
charger (AC adapter). If you are not sure, check with your authorized TERA dealer.

57

• Avoid damaging the power cable of the battery charger. Do not step on or place
anything on it as this could result in a damaged charger power cord. This product
complies with the requirements of the Council Directives 89/336/EEC and
73/23/EEC on the approximation of the laws of the member states relating to
electromagnetic compatibility and low voltage.

WARNING

Your wireless hand-held portable transceiver contains a low power transmitter. When
the Push-to-Talk (PTT) button is pressed it sends out radio frequency (RF) signals. The
device is authorized to operate at a duty factor not to exceed 50% TX and 50% RX.
In August 1996, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted RF exposure
guidelines with safety levels for hand-held wireless devices. To maintain compliance
with the FCC’s RF exposure guidelines, this transmitter and it’s antenna must maintain
a separation distance of least 2 inches from your face. Speak in a normal voice, with the
antenna pointed up and away from the face at the required separation distance. The belt
clip is for storage purposes only. AVOID TRANSMITING ON HIGH POWER WHILE RADIO
IS ATTACHED TO YOUR BELT. To transmit, hold the device away from your body and en­sure the antenna is at least 2 inches from your body when transmitting.

TR-500