RCA Communications Systems BR850U1 Two-Way Radio User Manual BR850 manual cover

1

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

Congratulations on selecting the BR850TM Intrinsically Safe Radio from

RCA Communications Systems - The most trusted name in radio!

Our new series of professional communications equipment establishes a new benchmark in

premium radio products made to perform awlessly under the most demanding commercial

conditions. Cutting edge design, professional grade materials and components, simple operation

and superior assembly quality: RCA Communications Systems has it all, including our exclusive no-

nonsense, three-year “Warranty Protection Program,” one of the most comprehensive warranties

in the communications industry.

To ensure you achieve maximum performance from your BR850TM radio, please be sure to carefully

read this manual.

MODELS COVERED IN THIS MANUAL:

• BR850TM VHF Two-Way Radio

• BR850TM UHF Two-Way Radio

C

O

M

P

L

I

A

N

T

N

A

R

O

W

B

A

N

D

CODED SQUELCH

DIGITAL

TM

Emergency Signaling

MAN DOWN

SecurEncrypt ™

MDC1200

COMPATIBLE

ANSI/UL 913

C

CSA C22.2 No. 157

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

2

Safety and General Information.....................4

Intrinsically Safe Radio Info........................6-7

Product Inspection.....................................8-9

RCA BR850TM Overview..........................10-11

LED Indicator..........................................12-14

Battery Information.....................................15

Initial Use..............................................15

Applicable Battery Packs........................15

Caution.................................................15

Battery Tips...........................................15

Prolong Battery Life...............................16

Battery Storage.....................................16

Charging the Battery.............................17

Steps for Setting Up Your Battery Charger...18

Antenna Information...................................19

Assembly and Disassembly...........................19

Attaching/Removing the Battery.......19-20

Attaching/Removing the Antenna..........20

Attaching/Removing the Belt Clip..........21

Attaching the Earpiece/Speaker Mic.......21

Basic Operations..........................................22

Programmable Auxiliary Functions...............22

Advanced Operations..................................23

Call 1/Call 2..........................................23

Emergency............................................23

Lone Worker (optional).........................23

Lone Worker Backup (optional).............24

Man Down (optional)............................24

Man Down Backup (optional)...............24

Monitor/Squelch Off (optional).............25

Squelch Level Check/Selectable Squelch Level

(SQL)...25

Scan (optional).....................................26

Scan Backup (optional).........................26

Scrambler (optional).............................27

Talk Around (optional)..........................28

Output Power Check/Adjust Power Level....28

Whisper (optional)...............................28

CONTENTS:

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BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

Whisper Backup (optional)..................28

Battery Power Indicator.......................28

Rental Timer Indicator.........................29

Channel Annunciation Temporary Enable..29

Channel Annunciation........................29

Auto Contact (optional).....................29

Auto Contact Temporary Delete.........30

Channel Lock (optional).....................30

Time-Out Timer (TOT)(optional).........30

Busy Channel Lockout (optional).......30

Battery Save (optional)......................31

Low Battery Alert..............................31

Safety Check (optional).....................31

CTCSS/CDCSS...................................31

DTMF (optional)................................32

2-Tone /MDC1200/RDC2400TM (optional).32

Signalling Logic.................................32

BOT ID and EOT ID (PTT ID) (optional).33

Care and Cleaning......................................33

CONTENTS continued

Troubleshooting..........................................34

Optional Accessories (Intrinsically Safe)..35-37

Radio Specications.....................................38

Glossary......................................................39

Warranty Statement...............................40-43

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

4

SAFETY AND GENERAL INFORMATION

Please observe the following general safety

precautions during all phases of operation,

service and repair of this equipment.

»Unauthorized modication of the radio

may result in failure of the Intrinsically Safe

protection.

Note: “Intrinsically Safe” is for equipment

used in areas where explosion risk can exist.

»Unauthorized service or repair is prohibited.

»Do not disassemble any Intrinsically Safe

products.

»The radio must not be opened in a

hazardous area.

»The battery must be changed in a non-

hazardous area.

»Additional or spare batteries must not be

carried into a hazardous area.

»Use only the intrinsically safe battery

(B850LI-IS) specied by RCA. The use of

other batteries is strictly prohibited and

will result in failure of the Intrinsically Safe

protection.

»The battery must be charged in a non-

hazardous area with the designated

charger CH850R1-IS or CH850R6-IS.

»Use only RCA approved accessories.

»Ensure that the radio is not taken into

Zone 0 areas.

»To avoid electromagnetic interference and/

or compatibility conicts, turn off your

radio in any area where posted notices

instruct you to do so.

»Turn off your radio before boarding an

aircraft. Any use of a radio must be in

accordance with airline regulations or

crew instructions.

»Turn off your radio before entering a

blasting area.

»For vehicles with an air bag, do not place a

radio in the area over an air bag or in the

air bag deployment area.

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BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

»Do not use any portable radio that has a

damaged antenna. If a damaged antenna

comes into contact with your skin, a minor

burn can result.

»Do not expose the radio to direct sunlight

over a long time, nor place it close to

heating source.

»When transmitting with a portable radio,

hold the radio in a vertical position with

the microphone 3 to 4 centimeters away

from your lips. Keep antenna at least 2.5

centimeters away from your body when

transmitting.

Please use the Intrinsically Safe BR850TM radio

unit only with RCA dedicated Intrinsically

Safe batteries and accessories in a hazardous

location; otherwise, a dangerously unsafe

condition may result.

Warning:

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

6

Intrinsically Safe Radio Information

Certication -

Intrinsically Safe

Intrinsically Safe Classication

“Intrinsically Safe” is a re safety rating given

to the equipment by SGS North America Inc.

according to ANSI/UL 913 (U.S.) and CSA C22.2

No. 157 (Canada) certication standards.

When the equipment is given this rating, it is

considered safe to use in certain ammable

or combustible atmospheres. Flammable

atmospheres have been categorized by Class,

Division, and Group as described below:

I.S. Classes I, II, III, Division 1,

Groups CDEFG, T3

Class Material

IGas, Vapor, Liquid

II Dust

III Fiber, Flying

Area Classication:

Division Description

1An area where there is or could be

an explosive atmosphere most of

the time under normal operating

conditions

2An area where an explosive

atmosphere exists only under fault

conditions

ANSI/UL 913

C

CSA C22.2 No. 157

7

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

Group Typical Hazard

AAcetylene

BHydrogen

CEthylene, ethyl ether, cyclopropane

DGasoline, naphtha, butane, propane,

alcohol, acetone, benzol, natural gas

EMetal dust including aluminum, mag-

nesium, and their alloys

FCarbon black, coal or coke dust

GFlour, starch, or grain dust

Classication of Atmospheres:

Class Maximum Surface Temperature

T1 842°F (450°C)

T2 572°F (300°C)

T2A 536 °F (280°C)

T2B 500 °F (260°C)

T2C 446 °F (230°C)

T2D 419 °F (215°C)

T3 392 °F (200°C)

T3A 356 °F (180°C)

T3B 329 °F (165°C)

T3C 320 °F (160°C)

T4 275 °F (135°C)

T4A 248 °F (120°C)

T5 212 °F (100°C)

T6 185 °F (85°C)

Classication of Atmospheres:

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

8

PRODUCT INSPECTION

Prior to unpacking the BR850TM portable

radio, please inspect the packaging for

signs of damage and report any damage or

missing components immediately to your RCA

Communications Systems Sales and Service

Outlet. Every BR850TM portable radio comes

with the following items:

Item Qty.(PCS)

BR850-IS - Handheld Radio 1

B850LI-IS - Li-Ion Battery (1700 mAh) 1

AN850U - Antenna for UHF Models

AN950V - Antenna for VHF Models 1

BC850 - Belt Clip 1

STR850 - Handy Carry Strap

(prevents dropping the BR850TM) 1

Instruction Manual 1

CH850R1-IS* - Desktop Rapid Charger 1

PS 50R* - Power Supply 1

B850LI-IS

Li-Ion Battery (1700 mAh)

CH850R1-IS

Desktop Rapid Charger

PS 50R

Power Supply

BC850

Belt Clip

STR850

Handy Carry Strap

Antenna

AN850U - UHF models

AN950V - VHF models

BR850-IS

Handheld Radio

* Items come in separate box if ordered.

2

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BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

STR850

Handy Carry Strap

Note:

The frequency band of the BR850TM is marked

on the radio label. If it is not visible, identify

the frequency band according to the color

circle on the antenna: red indicates UHF and

green indicates VHF.

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

10

RCA BR850TM Overview (1) PTT (Push-to-Talk) key

(2) SK1 (Side Key 1) (programmable)

(3) SK2 (Side Key 2) (programmable)

(4) Antenna

(5) Microphone

(6) Speaker

(7) TK (Top Key)

(8) Channel Selector Knob

(9) Radio On-Off/Volume Control Knob

(10) LED Indicator

(11) Accessory Jack

(12) Battery Latch

(13) Belt Clip

(14) Accessory Cover

(15) Battery

(16) Screw

(17) Electrode Charging Piece

BR850

1

2

3

4

5

6

789

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

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BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

PTT (Push-to-Talk) Key

Press and hold down the PTT key to transmit,

release it to receive.

SK1 (Side Key 1)

Side Key 1 is the programmable key to which

your dealer can assign long and short press

function. (See Glossary for denitions of long

and short press.)

SK2 (Side Key 2)

Side Key 2 is the programmable key to which

your dealer can assign long and short press

function. (See Glossary for denitions of long

and short press.)

Channel Selector Knob

Turn the knob to select a desired channel.

TK (TopKey)

Programmable function key.

Radio On-Off/Volume Control Knob

Turn the knob clockwise to turn the radio on,

and turn the knob fully counter-clockwise until

it clicks to turn the radio off.

Turn the knob clockwise to increase the

volume, or counter-clockwise to decrease the

volume. WARNING!! Make sure the BR850TM

is at low volume prior to using any earpiece

accessory, and then adjust the volume to a

comfortable level. Failing to do so may cause

hearing damage.

Accessory Cover & Accessory Jack

The jack is used to connect speaker,

microphone, external PTT, earpiece, headset,

programming cable and cloning cable.

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

12

Wired Clone Source radio: Turn the source radio on while

holding down the PTT and SK2 keys.

Target radio: Rotate the Radio On-Off/Volume

Control knob clockwise to turn the target radio

on.

The LED ashes orange

twice.

Source radio (power on the target radio and

connect the cloning cable, and then press the

PTT key of the source radio to initiate cloning.)

1. The LED solidly glows red

during cloning;

2. The LED goes out when

cloning is nished.

Note: The LED ashes red

when cloning fails.

Target radio 1. The LED solidly glows

green during cloning;

2. The LED goes out when

cloning is nished.

LED Indicator

The following tables explain the functions of the LEDs and beeps.

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BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

Wireless

Clone

Turn on both the source radio and target radio

while holding down the PTT and SK1 keys. Both

radios are required to be on the same channel

for cloning.

The LED ashes orange

once.

Source radio (turn on both the source radio and

target radio while holding down the PTT and

SK1 keys, and then press the PTT key of the

source radio while both radios are on the same

channel to initiate cloning.)

The LED solidly glows red

during cloning.

Target radio 1. The LED solidly glows

green during cloning;

2. The LED ashes green

and the radio sounds the

beep tone, when cloning

is nished.

Note: The LED ashes red

when cloning fails.

LED Indicator (continued)

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

14

Power On The LED ashes green once.

Low Battery Alert The LED ashes red, and the radio sounds

three beeps every 30 seconds.

Transmitting The LED glows red

Receiving The LED glows green when carrier presents.

Scanning The LED ashes green once every 1 second.

Programming Reading: the LED glows red;

Writing: the LED glows green.

Encoding

(DTMF/PTT ID/2-Tone /MDC1200/RDC2400TM)

1. The LED glows red while transmitting;

2. The LED glows orange when transmission

is over.

Decoding (2-Tone/MDC1200/RDC2400TM) The LED ashes orange after the signalling is

successfully decoded.

Select Power Level 1W: One beep is heard.

2W: Two beeps are heard.

4W/5W: Three beeps are heard.

Function Key Press One beep to enable, two beeps to disable.

LED Indicator (continued)

15

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

BATTERY INFORMATION

Initial Use

New batteries are shipped from the

factory uncharged. Charge a new battery

approximately 12 hours prior to initial use

(applies to Ni-CD, Ni-MH and Li-Ion batteries

charged with slow or rapid rate charger).

NOTE: The Indicator Light will turn GREEN

approximately one hour after battery is

placed in a Rapid Rate Charger; however, it is

strongly recommended the battery charge for

12 hours. This initializes it and allows for the

best performance. Maximum battery capacity

is normally achieved after two or three full

charge / discharge cycles. If battery power

runs low, recharge the battery. Batteries that

are brand new or that have been stored for an

extended period of time (several weeks), may

require more time to fully charge.

Applicable Battery Packs

To reduce the risk of injury, use only batteries

specied by RCA Communications Systems.

Caution:

1. To avoid risk of personal injury, do not

dispose of batteries in a re.

2. Dispose of batteries according to local

recycling regulations. Do not dispose as

household waste.

3. Never attempt to disassemble the battery.

Battery Tips:

1. When charging a battery, keep it at a

temperature between 41°F ~ 104°F (5°C ~

40°C) to ensure a full charge. Temperatures

outside this range signicantly reduce

battery life.

2. Before charging a battery attached to a

radio, turn the radio off to ensure a full

charge. Never leave a radio on while in the

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

16

charger, as it can damage both the battery

and the radio; the charger is not a radio

stand.

3. Do not cut off the power supply or remove

battery while charging.

4. Never charge a battery that is wet. Dry it

with soft cloth prior charging.

5. The battery will eventually weaken. When

the operating time (talk-time and standby

time) is noticeably shorter than normal,

replace the battery.

6. Charge the Intrinsically Safe battery

B850LI-IS outside the hazardous area

with the designated charger CH850R1-IS.

Unauthorized chargers could damage the

battery.

Tips To Prolong Battery Life:

1. Battery performance greatly decreases at

temperatures below -4°F (-20°C).Having

a spare battery is always necessary in

extremely cold environments. A cold

battery may work again when it returns to

room temperature,so keep it for later use.

2. Dust on the battery contact may cause the

battery not to work or charge properly. Use

a clean dry cloth to wipe it before attaching

the battery to the radio.

3. Batteries with damaged contacts can be

extremely dangerous. Any battery with

damage to one or more contacts should be

replaced immediately and not used under

any circumstances.

Battery Storage

1. Fully charge a battery before storing it for

an extended period of time to avoid battery

damage due to over-discharge.

2. Recharge a battery after three months

storage to avoid reduced battery capacity

due to over-discharge.

3. When storing a battery, keep it in a dry

17

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

place at room temperature.

Charging the Battery

1. When the battery level is very low, recharge

it. It is never recommended to completely

drain the battery, which may cause your

battery to malfunction and no longer

accept a charge.

2. Use only chargers specied by RCA

Communications Systems. When the

charger’s LED illuminates red, it is an

indication that the battery is being correctly

charged. When the LED illuminates green,

the battery charge is complete.

Status Charger LED

Standby (no-load)

Red LED slowly

ashes (0.2s on/3s

off )

Battery is charging Red LED solidly glows

Battery is fully

charged

Green LED solidly

glows

Error

Red LED rapidly

ashes (0.2s on/0.2s

off)

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

18

• After the battery is placed properly, the

LED solidly glows red indicating the battery

is charging, or ashes indicating that

the battery is damaged or the ambient

temperature is over high/low.

Steps for setting up your charger:

1. Plug the power cord into the adapter.

2. Plug the AC connector of the adapter into

the AC outlet socket.

3. Plug the DC connector of the adapter into

the DC socket on the back of the charger.

4. Place the radio with the battery attached,

or the battery alone, in the charger.

5. Make sure the battery is in well contact

with the charging terminals. The charging

process initiates when the red LED lights.

6. The greed LED lights about 3 hours later

indicating the battery is fully charged. Then

remove the radio with the battery attached

or the battery alone from the charger.

Notes:

• It is normal that the charger LED ashes

before inserting battery into the charger.

• Do not change the battery in the charger

until the charger LED is stabilized.

19

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

aluminum chassis are connected completely.

Then push the battery upward until you hear a

“click.” (see Fig. 1)

Step 3 -Hold the battery bottom and push the

battery upward. Align the two screws on the

battery with the screw holes on the radio body,

and then tighten the screws (see Fig. 1).

Fig. 1

ASSEMBLY AND DISASSEMBLY

Attaching the Battery

Step 1 -Insert the battery top into the

aluminum chassis, and make sure the battery

top is positioned correctly. (see gure 1)

Step 2 - Press the battery to make it cling to the

guide rails, and make sure the battery and the

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

20

Removing the Battery

With the radio off, loosen the screws, but

never remove them from the battery. Slide the

battery latch away from the battery, and slide

down the battery for 1 to 2 centimeters. Then

remove the battery from the radio unit. (see

Fig. 2).

Fig. 2

ATTACHING/REMOVING THE ANTENNA

Attaching the Antenna

1. With the radio off, insert the antenna into

the big screw thread hole on top of the

main unit.

2. Turn the antenna clockwise until it is

screwed down as shown. (see Fig.3)

Removing the Antenna

With the radio off, remove the antenna by

turning it counter-clockwise as shown. (see

Fig.3)

Fig. 3

21

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

ATTACHING/REMOVING THE BELT CLIP

Attaching the Belt Clip

Align the metal holder with the groove of the

battery, and press the belt clip downwards to

attach it (see Fig. 4).

Removing the Belt Clip

Lift up the dome, and slide the belt clip

upwards to remove it (see Fig. 4).

Fig. 4

ATTACHING EARPIECE / SPEAKER MIC

Open (don’t remove) the accessory cover,

and plug the audio accessory rmly into the

accessory jack. Then secure the screw using

your hand or a coin. Please loosen the screw

prior to removing the audio accessory. (See Fig.

5).

Note: Use of the audio accessory may affect

the waterproof performance of the radio.

Fig. 5

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

22

BASIC RADIO OPERATIONS

1. Rotate the Radio On-Off/Volume Control

knob clockwise to turn the radio on, with

green LED ashing once. You will hear a

beep if the alert tone is already set by your

dealer.

2. Press the programmed Monitor key or

Squelch Off key to hear activities on the

current channel, and then rotate the Radio

On-Off/Volume Control knob clockwise

to adjust the volume.

3. Rotate the Channel Selector knob to

select a desired channel. If the Channel

Annunciation feature is enabled by your

dealer, your radio will automatically

announce the channel the knob is set at.

4. To transmit, press and hold down the PTT

key, and speak into the microphone at your

normal voice level. Hold the radio about 2.5

to 5 centimeters away from your mouth.

5. Release the PTT key to receive.

PROGRAMMABLE

AUXILIARY FUNCTIONS

Your dealer may assign the TK, SK1, SK2 (long

or short press) keys with the following auxiliary

functions.

• None

• Call1/Call2

• Emergency

• Emergency Cancel

• Lone Worker

• Lone Worker Backup

• Man Down (optional)

• Man Down Backup (optional)

• Monitor

• Monitor Momentary

• Nuisance Channel Temporary Delete

• Nuisance Channel Delete

• Squelch Level Check

• Selectable Squelch Level (SQL)

• Scan

• Scan Backup

23

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

• Scrambler

• Scrambler Backup

• Squelch Off

• Squelch Off Momentary

• Talk Around

• Output Power Check

• Adjust Power Level

• Whisper

• Whisper Backup

• Battery Power Indicator

• Rental Time Indicator

• Channel Annunciation Temporary Enable

• Channel Annunciation

• External Scrambler (optional)

• External Scrambler Backup (optional)

• Auto Contact

• Auto Contact Temporary Delete

• Channel Lock

• Patrol Event Select

• Transmit Afrm

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

The following functions are not active by

default, but can be programmed by your

dealer upon request.

Call1/Call2 (optional)

Press the programmed Call1/Call2 key to

transmit the stored DTMF code, 2-Tone,

MDC1200 or RDC2400TM signalling.

Emergency (optional)

Press the programmed Emergency key

to transmit emergency alarm, or send ENI

(Emergency Number Identity)/background

tone to a pre-dened person or the dispatcher

(selectable via the programming software).

You may long or short press the function key

to cancel the emergency procedure.

Lone Worker (optional)

The feature provides added security and safety

for individuals who work remotely from their

team. Press the programmed function key to

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

24

activate the Lone Worker feature. The radio is

set to request a response from a user at regular

intervals. Should a user not press any key as a

response to a regular warning tone, a dened

emergency procedure will be activated.

The Lone Worker status will not be memorized

once the radio is powered off.

Lone Worker Backup (optional)

The feature provides added security and safety

for individuals who work remotely from their

team. Press the programmed function key to

activate the Lone Worker feature. The radio

is set up to request a response from a user

at regular intervals. Should a user not press

any key as a response to a regular warning

tone, a dened emergency procedure will be

activated.

The Lone Worker status will be memorized

after the radio is powered off and on again.

Man Down (optional)

Press the programmed function key to activate

the Man Down mode, in which horizontally or

inversely positioning the radio will activate an

alert tone. A dened emergency procedure is

activated if the radio is horizontally or inversely

positioned for a certain length of time. Place

the radio vertically to cancel the emergency

procedure.

The Man Down status will not be memorized

once the radio is powered off.

Man Down Backup (optional)

Press the programmed function key to activate

the Man Down mode, in which horizontally or

inversely positioning the radio will activate an

alert tone. A dened emergency procedure is

activated if the radio is horizontally or inversely

positioned for a certain length of time. Place

the radio vertically to cancel the emergency

procedure.

The Man Down status will be memorized after

the radio is powered off.

25

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

Monitor/Squelch Off (optional)

• Monitor

In this mode, the receiving party can receive

incoming calls from the transmitting party

regardless of CTCSS/CDCSS condition. If

carrier condition is not satised, the receiving

party will fail to receive any incoming calls.

Press the Monitor key to open signalling

squelch. Press the key again to close it.

• Monitor Momentary

Refer to Monitor. Press the Monitor

Momentary key to open signalling squelch.

Release the key to close it.

• Squelch Off

In this mode, the speaker is unmuted in

any condition and receives any sound on

the current channel. When audio signal

is received on the channel, audio will be

heard. Otherwise, background noise will be

heard. Press the Squelch Off key to open

noise squelch. Press the key again to close

it.

• Squelch Off Momentary

When audio signal is received on the

channel, audio will be heard. Otherwise,

background noise will be heard. Hold down

the programmed key continuously to enter

this mode, and release the key to exit. Press

the Squelch Off Momentary key to open

noise squelch. Release the key to close it.

Squelch Level Check/Selectable Squelch

Level (SQL)

Upon long press of the programmed Squelch

Level Check key, the radio reports the squelch

level set on the current channel.

Short press the Adjust Squelch Level key to

change the squelch level. The squelch increases

by 1 level upon every press of the function key

(level 9~0 cycle, selecting level 0 activates a

beep tone with the squelch always open), and

then save your change.

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

26

Scan (optional)

Press the programmed Scan key to initiate

radio scanning from the current channel,

and scanning ascends through the channel

numbers in the Scan list. The green LED ashes

when scanning proceeds, and solidly glows

when a signal is received with signalling match

on a channel. Press the Scan key again to exit

radio scanning. The Scan status will not be

memorized once the radio is powered off.

• Nuisance Channel Temporary Delete

1. When scanning pauses on an unwanted

channel such as a nuisance channel, press the

programmed Nuisance Channel Temporary

Delete key to temporarily delete the channel

from the Scan list.

2. The priority channel can be deleted temporarily

only.

3. If the current Scan list contains only one or two

channels, Nuisance Channel Temporary Delete

is not possible.

4. Once the radio exits the Scan mode, or is

powered off and on again, the temporarily

deleted channel will appear in the Scan list

again.

• Nuisance Channel Delete

When scanning pauses on an unwanted channel

such as a nuisance channel, press the programmed

Nuisance Channel Delete key to permanently

delete the channel from the Scan list. The deleted

channel will not appear in the Scan list once the

radio exits the Scan mode, or is powered off and

on again.

1. The priority channel can be deleted temporarily

only.

2. If the current Scan list contains only one or

two channels, Nuisance Channel Delete is not

available.

Scan Backup (optional)

Press the programmed Scan key to initiate

radio scanning from the current channel,

and scanning ascends through the channel

numbers in Scan list. The green LED ashes

when scanning proceeds, and solidly glows

27

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

when a signal is received with signalling match

on a channel. Press the Scan key again to exit

radio scanning.

The Scan status will be memorized after the

radio is powered off and on again.

Scrambler (optional)

The feature includes Scrambler and Scrambler

Backup.

In order for members of your own group to

understand your call while you are using

the Scrambler, all other members must also

activate the Scrambler on their radios. When

the feature is activated, any other party

listening on your channel will be unable to

understand your conversation.

◊ Scrambler

Press the programmed function key to activate

the Scrambler feature. When the feature

is activated, any other party who is on your

channel is prevented from listening to your

conversation.

The Scrambler status will not be memorized

once the radio is powered off and on again.

◊ Scrambler Backup

Press the programmed function key to activate

the Scrambler Backup feature. When the

feature is activated, any other party listening on

your channel is prevented from eavesdropping

your conversation.

The Scrambler status will be memorized after

the radio is powered off and on again.

◊ External Scrambler (optional)

The external scrambler is controlled from the

programmed External Scrambler key.

The External Scrambler status will not be

memorized once the radio is powered off and

on again.

◊ External Scrambler Backup (optional)

The external scrambler is controlled from the

programmed External Scrambler key.

The External Scrambler status will be

memorized after the radio is powered off and

on again.

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

28

Talk Around (optional)

Press the programmed function key to activate

the Talk Around feature. With the feature

activated, the Rx frequency will be used in

place of the Tx frequency during transmission.

Output Power Check/Adjust Power Level

Upon long press of the programmed Output

Power Check key, the radio reports the output

power level set on the current channel, with

one beep for low power level, two beeps for

medium power level, or three beeps for high

power level.

Short press the Adjust Power Level key to

change the power level. The power increases

by 1 level upon every press of the function key

(low~med~high cycle), and then save your

change.

Whisper (optional)

Press the programmed function key to activate

the Whisper feature. When the feature is

activated, you can speak quietly into the radio

and still be heard clearly. Press the key again to

exit the feature. The Whisper status will not be

memorized once the radio is powered off and

on again.

Whisper Backup (optional)

Press the programmed function key to activate

the Whisper feature. When the feature is

activated, you can speak quietly into the radio

and still be heard clearly. Press the key again

to exit the feature. The Whisper status will be

memorized after the radio is powered off and

on again.

Battery Power Indicator

Upon press of the programmed Battery

Power Indicator key, the radio sounds “1”,

“2”, “3”, or “4” to indicate the current

battery level.

Audible Indicator Battery Level

“1” Very Low

“2” Low

“3” Satisfactory

“4” High

29

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

Rental Timer Indicator (optional)

Upon press of the programmed Rental Time

Indicator key, the radio sounds “1”, “2”, “3”,

“4”, or “5” to indicate the remaining time

that the user is allowed to use the radio. The

Rental Time is programmable by your dealer.

Channel Annunciation Temporary Enable

Press the programmed Channel Annunciation

Temporary Enable key to activate the

following two situations:

a. If the current channel number is heard:

Press the function key. If two beeps are

heard, the Channel Annunciation will be

temporarily canceled. The current channel

number will be heard when the radio is

turned on again.

If one beep is heard, the Channel

Annunciation will be temporarily activated.

The current channel number will be heard

when the radio is turned on again.

b. If the current channel number is not heard:

Press the function key. If two beeps are

heard, the Channel Annunciation will be

temporarily canceled. The current channel

number will not be heard when the radio is

turned on again.

If one beep is heard, the Channel

Annunciation will be temporarily activated.

The current channel number will not be

heard when the radio is turned on again.

Channel Annunciation (optional)

Press the programmed Channel Annunciation

key. If two beeps are heard, the Channel

Annunciation will be canceled. The current

channel number will not be heard when the

radio is turned on again.

If one beep is heard, the Channel Annunciation

will be activated. The current channel number

will be heard when the radio is turned on

again.

Auto Contact (optional)

When a group of radios is set with Auto

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

30

Contact, the radio will automatically sound

the alert tone if the user is out of the

communication range.

Auto Contact Temporary Delete

Press the programmed Auto Contact

Temporary Delete key to temporarily delete

the selected ID from the current Auto Contact

list.

Channel Lock (optional)

When the Channel Lock feature is activated,

channels cannot be selected via the Channel

Selector knob.

Time-out Timer (TOT) (optional)

The feature allows for more efcient use of

channels by limiting the maximum time of each

transmission. Once a continuous transmission

exceeds the preset time (programmable by your

dealer), the transmission will be automatically

terminated and an alert tone will be heard.

Release the PTT key to cancel the alert tone.

Your dealer may program the alert tone sounds

before the TOT timer nearly expires.

Busy Channel Lockout (BCL) (optional)

When the BCL feature is enabled, you are

prevented from transmitting on a channel that

is already in use. Press the PTT key on a channel

that is already in use, the radio will sound an

alert tone and turn back to the Receive mode.

Carrier: If BCL is set on the current channel,

press the PTT key while the channel is already

in use, and the radio will sound beeps without

transmission.

CTCSS/CDCSS: If CTCSS/CDCSS and BCL are

31

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

set on the current channel, press the PTT key

while the channel is already in use, and the

radio will sound beeps without transmission.

Optional Signalling: If 2-Tone/MDC1200/

RDC2400TM signalling and BCL are set on the

current channel, press the PTT key while the

channel is already in use, and the radio will

sound beeps without transmission.

Battery Save (optional)

If the feature is programmed by your dealer,

Battery Save will be automatically activated

once no activity is present on the channel and

no operation is performed (no key press and

no knob selection) for extended operation

time.

Once the radio detects no activity on the

channel and no operation is performed during

standby time, it will automatically enter

Battery Save mode in 12 seconds. Pressing any

key or receiving a signal will cause the radio

to restore to normal operation and exit from

Battery Save.

Low Battery Alert (optional)

For extra convenience, the red LED ashes and

the radio sounds three beeps every 30 seconds,

to alert the user to recharge the battery if the

battery level runs low.

Safety Check (optional)

Once the radio receives a safety check signal,

an alert tone will be heard, requesting the user

to make some operation (pressing any key).

Should the user not respond to a safety check

signal, a dened emergency procedure will be

activated.

CTCSS/CDCSS

If CTCSS/CDCSS is set on the current channel,

a CTCSS/CDCSS match is required on an

incoming signal for the radio to unmute.

Radios set with the same CTCSS/CDCSS, or

not set with CTCSS/CDCSS, can receive from

you.

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

32

Your dealer may program the current channel

with CTCSS/CDCSS, to prevent unwanted

conversations on the same frequency.

The radio will not unmute to an incoming call

with invalid CTCSS/CDCSS. This feature does

not mean that your conversation will not be

heard by others.

DTMF (optional)

The DTMF signalling can be enabled/disabled

by your dealer. If DTMF signalling is set on the

current channel, press the programmed key to

transmit DTMF code.

The red LED solidly glows during encoding,

and goes out when encoding is over.

2-Tone/MDC1200/RDC2400TM (optional)

The 2-Tone/MDC1200/RDC2400TM signalling

can be enabled/disabled by your dealer. If

2-Tone/MDC1200/RDC2400TM signalling is set

on the current channel, press the programmed

Call 1/Call 2 key to transmit 2-Tone/MDC1200/

RDC2400TM signalling. The preset function

will be performed when the radio receives an

incoming signal with match 2-Tone/MDC1200/

RDC2400TM. Radios set with match 2-Tone/

MDC1200/RDC2400TM can receive from you.

• The red LED solidly glows during encoding;

after encoding, the orange LED solidly glows

until the preset time expires.

• The green LED solidly glows during decoding;

after successful decoding, the orange LED

ashes until the preset time expires.

Signalling Logic

CTCSS/CDCSS “AND” / “OR” 2-Tone/

MDC1200/RDC2400TM

“AND”: The radio unmutes when both

the CTCSS/CDCSS and 2-Tone/MDC1200/

RDC2400TM conditions are satised.

“OR”: The radio unmutes when either

the CTCSS/CDCSS or 2-Tone/MDC1200/

33

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

RDC2400TM condition is satised.

BOT ID and EOT ID (PTT ID) (optional)

Your dealer may congure whether to transmit

Connect ID (BOT ID) or Disconnect ID (EOT

ID), to connect or disconnect to a repeater or

telephone system.

BOT ID: sent upon each press of the PTT key.

EOT ID: sent upon each release of the PTT

key.

Both: sent upon each press and release of the

PTT key.

CARE AND CLEANING

• Do not directly handle the radio by its

antenna or external microphone.

• Do not place the radio in a dusty or dirty

environment.

• Clean the radio with a lint-free cloth

moistened with clean water and/or a mild

dish washing liquid to remove dirt, grease,

and dust.

• Avoid subjecting the radio to corrosives,

solvents or spirits.

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

34

Symptom Solution

Cannot power on the radio

a. The battery needs charging. Recharge the battery or replace it

with a fresh one.

b. The battery is not properly installed. Remove the battery and

reattach it.

The operating time is notice-

ably shorter than normal even

though the battery is properly

charged.

a. The battery has worn out; it is time to buy a new battery.

b. The battery is not fully charged. Make sure that the battery is

removed after LED indicator has turned green.

Cannot talk to or hear group

members

a. Make sure that your radio operates on the same frequency and has

the same CTCSS/CDCSS settings as your group members.

b. Make sure you are within their communication range.

Hear non-group members Please change your CTCSS/CDCSS settings and have your group

members do so, also.

No voice or low voice while

transmitting

a. Turn the volume control knob to its maximum volume.

b. Return the radio to your dealer to check for microphone damage.

Noise always on Move within communication range of other group members. Next,

turn the radio off and back on again to retry communication.

TROUBLESHOOTING

35

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

Optional Accessories (Intrinsically Safe)

Multi-Unit Rapid-Rate Charger

CH850R6-IS

More convenient and saves space by using one power outlet for

6 radios.

Remote Speaker Microphone

SM850L-IS

No need to remove the radio from your waist, which prevents

radio damage or loss.

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

36

Optional Accessories continued

Leather Holster xed belt loop

HL850L

Durable and strong, the leather holster offers the best

protection for your BR850TM radio.

Leather Holster w/ swivel belt loop

HL850SL

Durable and strong, the leather holster offers the best protection

for your BR850TM radio.

Nylon Holster xed belt loop

HN850L

Durable and strong, nylon holster offers great protection for

your BR850TM radio.

37

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

Optional Accessories continued

Nylon Holster w/ swivel belt loop

HN850SL

Durable and strong, nylon holster offers great protection for

your BR850TM radio.

39

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

GLOSSARY

Short Press - Key press shorter than 1.5 seconds

Long Press - Key press longer than 1.5 seconds

Standby Status - In normal mode, no key operation is made on the radio and the radio is in

receiving status.

CTCSS/CDCSS - The setting of CTCSS/CDCSS code in transmitting party must match that in the

receiving party for the receiver to unmute its output audio.

Battery Save - The function is to save battery power and prolong the operation time. Once no

activity or operations are occurring on the channel, the radio will be on and off alternately.

Time-out Timer (TOT) - The time-out timer feature stops someone from talking too long and tying

up the channel.

Squelch - The purpose of squelch is to mute audio output from the speaker when no signals are

present. Open the squelch to unmute radio speaker.

Squelch Off - Always unmute speaker to receive audio as well as background noise.

Monitor - Carrier condition must be satised for the radio to unmute to an incoming call, regardless

of CTCSS/CDCSS condition.

continued >

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

40

Momentary - Hold down the Function key to activate the status, and release it to turn it off.

Scan - The scan feature enables the radio to continuously scan each channel for activity.

Busy Channel Lockout - Avoid interference with users on same channel by preventing transmission

if another talk group is already on the air.

VOX - The radio will automatically begin transmitting when you speak.

WARRANTY STATEMENT

RCA Communications Systems warrants each new radio product it supplies to be free from defects in

material and workmanship under normal use and service for the time period listed below, provided

that the user has complied with the requirements stated herein.

The warranty period begins on the date of purchase from an Authorized RCA Communications

Systems Sales and Service Outlet. This warranty is offered to the original end user and is not assignable

or transferable. RCA Communications Systems is not responsible for any ancillary equipment which

is attached to or used in conjunction with RCA Communications Systems products.

RCA Communications Systems offers to the original end user a Three (3) Year Limited Warranty on

the RCA BR850TM Radio Handset. The BR850TM Antenna, BR850TM Battery and the BR850TM Battery

Charger are covered under a One (1) Year Limited Warranty. The BR850TM Belt Clip is not covered

under the warranty.

41

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

During this period, if the product fails to function under normal use because of manufacturing

defect(s) or workmanship, it should be returned to the Authorized RCA Communications Systems

Sales and Service Outlet from which it was purchased. The Sales and Service Outlet will repair the

product to full operating specications or replace the product with a new product of the same

make and model. The user is responsible for all charges incurred in returning the product to the

Authorized RCA Communications Systems Sales and Service Outlet. RCA Communications Systems

will be responsible for all charges in returning the product to the end user via standard ground

shipping service.

RCA Communications Systems shall have no obligation to repair or replace the product, if there

is damage as a result of normal wear and tear or if the damage is caused in whole or in part by

catastrophe, fault or negligence of the user, improper or unauthorized alterations or repairs to the

product, incorrect wiring, use of the product in a manner for which it was not designed, or by

causes external to the product. This warranty is void if the product serial number is altered, defaced

or removed.

THE EXPRESS WARRANTIES CONTAINED HEREIN ARE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EITHER

EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY WARRANTY OF

MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

FOR ANY PRODUCT WHICH DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE WARRANTY SPECIFIED, THE SOLE

REMEDY WILL BE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT. IN NO EVENT WILL RCA COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS

BE LIABLE TO THE BUYER OR ITS CUSTOMERS FOR ANY DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY SPECIAL,

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

42

INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, OR THE LOSS OF PROFIT, REVENUE OR

DATA ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR THE INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCT.

RCA Communications Systems endeavors to achieve the accuracy and completeness of this

manual, but is not liable for any possible omission and printing mistakes.

All the above specications and design are subject to change without prior notice.

All the reproduction and translation of this manual without authorization is prohibited.

In this manual, we strive to achieve accuracy and completeness, but provide no warranty of

accuracy or reliability. All the above specications and design are subject to change without notice

due to continuous development.

No part of this manual may be copied, reproduced, translated, stored in a retrieval system,

distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, for any purpose

without the expressed, written permission from RCA Communications Systems.

The end-user of any two-way radio is solely responsible for obtaining any license or other

authorizations required by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). For further

information visit www.fcc.gov or call 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322).

43

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

For Sales, Warranty and Customer Support please contact:

Discount Two-Way Radio Corporation – North American Distributor

1430 240th Street

Harbor City, CA 90710

Phone: 310-224-5100 / Fax: 310-224-5101

www.discounttwo-wayradio.com

RCA COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS strives to achieve accuracy and completeness of this manual,

but no warranty of accuracy or reliability is given. All the above specications and design are subject

to change without notice due to continuous development.

No part of this manual may be copied, reproduced, translated, stored in a retrieval system,

distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, for any purpose

without the express written permission of RCA.

BR850TM Professional Two-Way Radio Instruction Manual

44

NOTES:

PO Box 80222

Indianapolis, IN 46240

Phone: (877) 822-2915

Fax: (317) 536-3718

The Most Trusted Name In Radios

PO Box 80222

Indianapolis, IN 46240

Phone: (877) 822-2915

Fax: (317) 536-3718

The Most Trusted Name In Radios

RF Energy Exposure Awareness and Control Information and Operational Instructions for Occupational Use

NOTICE: This radio is intended for use in occupational / controlled conditions where users have full knowledge of their exposure and can exercise control over their exposure to

meet the occupational limits in FCC and International standards. This radio device is NOT authorized for general population consumer use.

This two-way radio uses electromagnetic energy in the radio frequency (RF) spectrum to provide communications between two or more users over a distance. It uses radio

frequency (RF) energy or radio waves to send and receive calls. RF energy is one form of electromagnetic energy. Other forms include, but are not limited to, sunlight and x-rays.

RF energy, however, should not be confused with these other forms of electromagnetic energy, which when used improperly, can cause biological damage. Very high levels of

x-rays, for example, can damage tissues and genetic material.

Experts in science, engineering, medicine, health, and industry work with organizations to develop standards for safe exposure to RF energy. These standards provide

recommended levels of RF exposure for both workers and the general public. These recommended RF exposure levels include substantial margins of protection.

All RCA Communications Systems’ two-way radios are designed, manufactured, and tested to ensure they meet government-established RF exposure levels. In addition,

manufacturers also recommend specic operating instructions to users of two-way radios. These instructions are important because they inform users about RF energy exposure

and provide simple procedures on how to control it.

Please refer to the following websites for more information on what RF energy exposure is and how to control your exposure to assure compliance with established RF exposure

limits:

http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety/rf-faqs.html

http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/radiofrequencyradiation/index.html

Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Regulations

The FCC rules require manufacturers to comply with the FCC RF energy exposure limits for portable two-way radios before they can be marketed in the U.S. When two-way

radios are used as a consequence of employment, the FCC requires users to be fully aware of and able to control their exposure to meet occupational requirements. Exposure

awareness can be facilitated by the use of a product label directing users to specic user awareness information. RCA Communications Systems’ two-way radio has a RF Exposure

Product Label. Also, RCA Communications Systems’ user manual or separate safety booklet includes information and operating instructions required to control your RF exposure

and to satisfy compliance requirements.

Compliance with RF Exposure Standards

RCA Communications Systems’ two-way radio is designed and tested to comply with a number of national and International standards and guidelines (listed below) for human

exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic energy. This radio complies with the IEEE (FCC) and ICNIRP exposure limits for occupational / controlled RF exposure environments

at operating duty factors of up to 50% talk - 50% listen and is authorized by the FCC for occupational use only. In terms of measuring RF energy for compliance with these

exposure guidelines, your radio generates measurable RF energy only while it is transmitting (during talking), not when it is receiving (listening) or in standby mode.

RCA Communications Systems’ two-way radio complies with the following RF energy exposure standards and guidelines:

• United States Federal Communications Commission, Code of Federal Regulations; 47CFR part 2 sub-part J

• Ministry of Health (Canada) Safety Code 6. Limits of Human Exposure to Radio frequency Electromagnetic Fields in the Frequency Range from 3 kHz to 300 GHz, 1999

• Australian Communications Authority Radio Communications (Electromagnetic Radiation - Human Exposure) Standard, 2003

PO Box 80222

Indianapolis, IN 46240

Phone: (877) 822-2915

Fax: (317) 536-3718

The Most Trusted Name In Radios

• American National Standards Institute (ANSI) & Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) C95.1-1992

• Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) C95.1-2005 Edition

• International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (lCNIRP) 1998

• ANATEL ANNEX to Resolution No. 303 of July 2, 2002 “Regulation of limitation of exposure to electrical, magnetic and electromagnetic eld in the radio frequency

range between 9 KHz and 300GHz “and “Attachment to resolution # 303 from July 2, 2002.”

RF Exposure Compliance and Control Guidelines and Operating Instructions

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

Guidelines:

• Do not remove the RF Exposure label from the device.

• User awareness instructions should accompany device when transferred to other users.

• Do not use this device if the operational requirements described herein are not met.

Operating Instructions

• Transmit no more than the rated duty factor of 50% of the time. To transmit (talk), push the Push-To-Talk (PTT) button. To receive calls, release the PTT button.

Transmitting 50% of the time, or less, is important because this radio generates measurable RF energy exposure only when transmitting (in terms of measuring for

standards compliance).

Two-Way Radio Operation

• Hold the radio in a vertical position in front of the face with the microphone (and other parts of the radio including the antenna) at least one inch (2.5 centimeters)

away from the nose or lips. Antenna should be kept away from the eye. Keeping the radio at a proper distance is important since RF exposures decrease with

increasing distance from the antenna.

Body Worn Operation

• When worn on the body, always place the radio in a RCA Communications Systems -approved clip, holder, holster, case, or body harness for this product. Using

approved body worn accessories is important because the use of non- RCA Communications Systems -approved accessories may result in exposure levels, which exceed

the FCC occupational/controlled environment RF exposure limits.

• If you are not using a body-worn accessory and are not using the radio in the intended use position in front of the face, ensure the antenna and the radio are kept at

least one inch (2.5 centimeters) from the body when transmitting. Keeping the radio at a proper distance is important because RF exposures decrease with increasing

distance from the antenna.

• DO NOT hold the antenna when the radio is transmitting. Holding the antenna affects call quality and may cause the radio product to operate at higher or lower

level than needed.

• DO NOT touch the metal surface of the antenna (in extended position) when he radio is transmitting. RF discomfort may result.

Use only RCA-approved supplied or replacement antennas, batteries, and accessories. Use of non-RCA-approved antennas, batteries, and accessories may exceed the FCC (IEEE)

and ICNIRP RF exposure guidelines.

RCA Communications Systems BR850U1 Two-Way Radio User Manual BR850 manual cover

RCA Communications Systems Two-Way Radio BR850 manual cover

User Manual

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