OWNER’S MANUAL
DX-392
PLL ALL-BAND PORTABLE RECEIVER
WITH CASSETTE RECORDER
Please read before using this equipment.
Cat. No. 20-219B
MW Step Setting — lets you choose
the correct setting for whatever part of
the world you are in.
Battery Power Indicator — lets you
know when the batteries need to be re-
placed.
AM RF Gain Control — lets you ad-
just the receiver’s sensitivity when you
listen to SW to provide the best possi-
ble reception.
Back-Up Battery Power — keeps the
clock running, protects the stations
stored in memory, and powers the dis-
play if the receiver’s primary power
source is interrupted.
Narrow/Wide Control — lets you re-
duce interference from other stations
when you listen to SW, MW (AM), and
LW broadcasts.
Memo Pad — lets you record helpful
information such as the memory loca-
tion numbers of your favorite stations.
BFO Controls — let you tune to sta-
tions that transmit in continuous wave
(CW) and single sideband (SSB).
We recommend you record the serial
number of your receiver here. The
number is inside the battery compart-
ment.
Built-In Cassette Recorder — lets
you record and play back programs.
Serial Number_________________
Standby Recording — lets you record
your favorite program at a preset time.
Beat Cut Switch — reduces the hum
or whistling sound sometimes heard
when recording AM broadcasts.
Built-In Condenser Microphone —
lets you make live recordings.
Three Power Options — let you
choose from internal batteries, stan-
dard household AC power (requires an
AC adapter), or DC vehicle battery
power (requires a DC adapter) so you
can use the receiver just about any-
where.
3
CONTENTS
Preparation ............................................................................................................ 6
Setting the MW (AM) Tuning Increment ........................................................... 6
Installing Back-Up Batteries ............................................................................. 6
Connecting to Primary Power........................................................................... 7
Internal Battery Power .............................................................................. 7
AC Power .................................................................................................. 8
DC Power .................................................................................................. 8
Using the Folding Stand and Memo Pad.......................................................... 9
Using the Receiver.............................................................................................. 10
Turning the Receiver On/Off........................................................................... 10
Tuning............................................................................................................. 10
Selecting the Band .................................................................................. 10
Direct-Access Tuning .............................................................................. 10
Using the Rotary Dial .............................................................................. 11
Tuning with the Arrow Keys ..................................................................... 12
Scanning ................................................................................................. 12
Memory Tuning ....................................................................................... 13
Adjusting the Antenna .................................................................................... 13
Connecting an External Antenna.................................................................... 14
Adjusting Special Tuning Controls.................................................................. 14
FM Mono/FM Stereo ............................................................................... 14
AM Narrow/AM Wide .............................................................................. 14
AM RF Gain ............................................................................................ 15
BFO Switch and BFO Dial ...................................................................... 15
Tone ........................................................................................................ 15
Using the Clock Radio........................................................................................ 16
Setting the Clocks........................................................................................... 16
Changing the Clock Display .................................................................... 17
Using the Alarm (Standby) Feature................................................................ 17
Setting the Alarm .................................................................................... 17
Silencing the Alarm ................................................................................. 18
Turning the Alarm Off/On ........................................................................ 18
Using the Sleep Timer .................................................................................... 18
Making a Recording............................................................................................ 19
Loading a Cassette Tape................................................................................ 19
Playing a Cassette Tape................................................................................. 19
Fast-Forward and Rewind ....................................................................... 20
Cue and Review ...................................................................................... 20
4
Recording....................................................................................................... 20
Recording from the Radio ....................................................................... 20
Recording from the Radio Using the Standby Feature ........................... 21
Recording AM Broadcasts ...................................................................... 22
Recording Using the Built-In Microphone ............................................... 22
Additional Features ............................................................................................ 23
Connecting Headphones ............................................................................... 23
Listening Safely ...................................................................................... 23
Lighting the Display........................................................................................ 24
Locking the Controls ...................................................................................... 24
Listening Hints.................................................................................................... 25
Reference Sources ........................................................................................ 25
Frequency Conversion................................................................................... 25
Band Allocations ............................................................................................ 25
Amateur Radio Frequencies ................................................................... 25
International Frequencies ....................................................................... 26
Aircraft Frequencies ............................................................................... 27
Ships and Coastal Station Frequencies ................................................. 27
Time Standard Frequencies ................................................................... 27
Longwave Band ...................................................................................... 27
Listening Guide .................................................................................................. 28
Birdies ............................................................................................................ 33
Tape Tips and Techniques................................................................................. 34
Storing Your Cassettes ................................................................................. 34
Erasing Tapes ............................................................................................... 34
Accidental Erasure Prevention ...................................................................... 34
Tape Tension ................................................................................................. 35
Cleaning the Tape Mechanism ...................................................................... 35
Troubleshooting ................................................................................................. 36
Resetting the Radio ....................................................................................... 37
Maintenance........................................................................................................ 38
Caring for the Receiver .................................................................................. 38
The FCC Wants You to Know ........................................................................ 38
Specifications ..................................................................................................... 39
5
PREPARATION
SETTING THE MW (AM)
TUNING INCREMENT
INSTALLING BACK-UP
BATTERIES
In the United States, the Federal Com-
munications Commission (FCC) as-
signs frequencies for stations in the
MW band in 10-kilohertz increments.
(In the United States, we commonly
call the MW band the AM band.) In Eu-
rope and some other parts of the
world, MW frequencies are assigned in
9-kilohertz increments.
Back-up batteries power the receiver’s
clock and the display and save the sta-
tions stored in memory if the receiver’s
primary power source is interrupted.
The receiver uses three AA batteries
for back-up power. For the best perfor-
mance, we recommend alkaline bat-
teries, such as Radio Shack Cat. No.
23-552.
Note: You cannot operate the receiver
using only the back-up batteries. If you
press POWER when the back-up bat-
teries are the only available power
source, Eflashes on the display.
Follow these steps to install the back-
up batteries.
1. Remove the battery compart-
ment’s cover by pushing the cover
in the direction of the arrow.
The MW STEP switch is located in-
side the battery compartment. Before
you install the back-up batteries, set
the switch to 9k or 10k using the fol-
lowing guidelines:
2. Install three AA batteries, according
to the polarity symbols (+ and –)
marked next to the compartment.
For easy removal, place the bat-
teries on top of the lift-out ribbon.
• If you are in the United States,
Canada, or another North or
South American country, be sure
the switch is set to 10k.
• If you are in a country where
the AM frequency increments
are 9 kHz, set the switch to 9k.
6
3. Replace the cover, or install addi-
tional batteries for primary power
as described in “Internal Battery
Power.”
To check the back-up batteries’ power
level, disconnect the receiver from the
primary-power source. Then look at
the receiver’s display. If it is dim, re-
place the back-up batteries.
3. Replace the cover.
To check the primary-power batteries,
turn off the receiver. The battery pow-
er indicator appears on the display for
several seconds. Fresh batteries
show a power level of 7. If the indica-
tor shows a power level of 2 or below,
replace the primary-power batteries.
CONNECTING TO
PRIMARY POWER
You can power the receiver from inter-
nal batteries, standard AC power, or
your vehicle’s battery.
Internal Battery Power
RADIO POWER
Note: If you press
to
Your receiver uses four D batteries.
For the best performance, we recom-
mend alkaline batteries, such as Radio
Shack Cat. No. 23-550.
turn on the receiver when the primary-
power batteries are dead, Eflashes on
the display if back-up batteries are in-
stalled.
Follow these steps to install batteries
for use as the primary power source.
AC Power
1. Remove the battery compart-
ment’s cover by pushing the cover
in the direction of the arrow.
With an optional AC adapter, such as
Radio Shack Cat. No. 273-1664, you
can power the receiver from standard
AC power.
2. Slide four D batteries into the
compartment, according to the
polarity symbols (+ and –) marked
next to the compartment. For easy
removal, place the batteries on
top of the lift-out ribbon.
Caution: You must use an AC adapter
that supplies 6 volts with the center tip
set to negative. It must deliver at least
400 milliamps, and its plug must prop-
DC IN 6V
erly fit the receiver’s
jack. Us-
ing an adapter that does not meet
these specifications could damage the
7
receiver or the adapter.
least 400 milliamps, and its plug
must properly fit the receiver’s DC
IN 6V jack. Using an adapter that
does not meet these specifica-
tions could damage the receiver
or the adapter.
• To protect your vehicle’s electrical
system, be sure the adapter is
connected to the cigarette-lighter
socket only when it is also con-
nected to the receiver.
Follow these steps to use AC power.
1. Set the adapter’s voltage switch to
6V.
2. Line up the 5.5 mm outer diam-
eter/2.1 mm inner diameter
barrel plug with the adapter’s
socket so it reads
the plug.
, and insert
–TIP
3. Insert the barrel plug into the re-
ceiver’s DC IN 6V jack.
4. Plug the adapter into a standard
AC outlet.
• Follow these steps to use DC
power.
Using an adapter disconnects
the primary power batteries.
Note:
1. Set the adapter’s voltage switch to
6V.
2. Line up the 5.5 mm outer diam-
eter/2.1 mm inner diameter
barrel plug with the adapter’s
DC Power
With an optional DC adapter, such as
Radio Shack Cat. No. 270-1562, you
can power the receiver from your vehi-
cle’s battery.
socket so it reads
the plug.
, and insert
–TIP
3. Insert the adapter’s barrel plug
into the receiver’s DC IN 6V jack.
Cautions:
4. Insert the adapter’s plug into the
vehicle’s cigarette-lighter socket.
• You must use a DC adapter that
supplies 6 volts with the center tip
set to negative. It must deliver at
Using an adapter disconnects
Note:
the primary-power batteries.
8
USING THE FOLDING
STAND AND MEMO PAD
The display shows the band, frequen-
cy, and signal strength. (A reading of 7
indicates the strongest signal.)
You can position the receiver more se-
curely and possibly improve the sound
by resting the receiver on its stand.
Lift the latch on the back of the receiver
to open the stand. You can use the
memo pad under the receiver’s stand
to record helpful information, such as
the memory location numbers of your
favorite stations.
RADIO POWER
Press
again to turn off
the receiver.
TUNING
USING THE RECEIVER
Selecting the Band
TURNING THE
RECEIVER ON/OFF
FM MW LW
SW
Press
,
,
, or
to select the
RADIO POWER
Press
to turn on the re-
MW
band. (Press
for AM.) To select a
ceiver, then adjust the volume.
smaller band within the SW band,
METER
press
, then enter the desired
band by pressing its labeled button on
the keypad.
Direct-Access Tuning
Follow these steps to directly tune to a
station.
FREQ
1. Press
. The frequency dis-
play disappears.
9
2. Press the number buttons (and
decimal button where appropriate)
to enter the frequency.
If you make a mistake, press C
(cancel) to erase the last digit.
er so you can fine tune the frequency,
as shown in the following table.
If you wait more than 15 seconds
to press a button, the previous fre-
quency returns to the display and
you must begin again at Step 1.
Band
FM
Fast
Fine
0.1 MHz
9 kHz
0.05 MHz
1 kHz
3. Press ENTER. The selected fre-
LW
quency appears.
MW (AM)
SW
9/10 kHz
1 kHz
0.005 MHz 0.001 MHz
Using the Rotary Dial
You can select a higher or lower fre-
quency by turning the ROTARY TUNING
knob up or down.
You can also set FAST/FINE/LOCK to
lock the ROTARY TUNING dial. This
prevents you from accidentally chang-
ing the frequency.
This locks only the ROTARY
Note:
TUNING dial. For information about
locking the front-panel buttons, see
“Locking the Controls” on Page 22.
Set FAST/FINE/LOCK to select the rota-
ry tuning increments or to lock the RO-
TARY TUNING dial. If you select FAST,
the rotary tuning increments are the
same as when you use the MANUAL/
AUTO
or
keys. If you select
FINE, the tuning increments are small-
10
To scan for a frequency in one of 13
shortwave bands, press METER. Then
press the correct button on the numer-
ic keypad to select the shortwave
band.
Tuning with the Arrow Keys
You can select a lower or higher fre-
quency by pressing MANUAL/AUTO
or
. The frequency changes in
the following increments.
When scanning in a smaller band, the
receiver searches only within the se-
lected band and stops at the upper and
lower limits of the band.
Band
FM
Tuning Increment
0.1 MHz
9 kHz
LW
See “International Frequencies” on
Page 23 for a list of the shortwave
bands.
MW
(AM)
9 or 10 kHz (see
“Setting the MW (AM)
Tuning Increment” on
Page 6)
Note: When scanning, the receiver
only searches for frequencies with
strong signals. To search for stations
with weaker signals, use one of the
manual tuning methods.
SW
0.005 MHz
Scanning
To automatically tune up or down to
the next active frequency in the se-
lected band, press and hold down
MANUAL/AUTO
or
for about 2
seconds. The receiver scans up or
down the selected band and tunes to
the first frequency it finds with a strong
signal.
11
Memory Tuning
ADJUSTING THE
ANTENNA
For easy selection, you can store the
frequencies of your favorite stations in
memory. You can store up to 18 SW
and 18 FM frequencies, and up to 9
frequencies in each of the other bands.
For the best reception, adjust the tele-
scoping antenna for the band you want
to listen to.
FM — Fully extend the antenna and
rotate it for the best reception.
Follow these steps to store a frequen-
cy into memory.
1. Use direct-access or manual tun-
ing to tune to the frequency you
want to store.
2. Press M.
LW and MW (AM) — Rotate the re-
ceiver. The receiver uses the internal
antenna for the LW and MW (AM)
bands.
3. While M flashes, enter a memory
location code using the numeric
keypad. For SW and FM bands,
select from 1–9 and 01–09. For
other bands, select from 1–9. The
frequency is stored, Mstops flash-
ing, and the display shows the
memory location code
Note: If you wait more than 15 sec-
onds to press a memory location code
number, Mstops flashing and you must
begin again at Step 2.
To select a stored frequency, press
FM, MW, LW, or SW to select the band.
Then enter the memory location code.
12
SW — Fully extend the antenna and
point it straight up.
ADJUSTING SPECIAL
TUNING CONTROLS
Several controls affect the receiver’s
sound. This section explains how to
adjust these controls.
CONNECTING AN
EXTERNAL ANTENNA
To improve SW reception, you can
connect a portable external antenna
(such as Radio Shack Cat. No. 278-
1374) directly to the telescoping an-
tenna or you can make an antenna
using a shortwave antenna kit (such
as Radio Shack Cat. No. 278-758).
FM Mono/FM Stereo
To improve reception for weak FM ste-
FM MONO/FM STEREO
reo stations, set
FM MONO
to
. The signal becomes
monaural, but the sound might im-
prove. To return to a stereo signal, set
FM MONO/FM STEREO
FM STEREO
.
to
Follow the antenna’s supplied instruc-
tions to connect the receiver to the an-
tenna.
AM Narrow/AM Wide
To reduce interference from adjacent
stations in the SW, MW, or LW bands,
AM NARROW/AM WIDE
AM NAR-
to
set
ROW
.
13
For the FM and MW bands and for SW
stations that do not transmit in SSB or
CW, set the BFO switch to OFF. The
BFO dial has no effect when the BFO
switch is set to OFF.
AM RF Gain
The AM RF GAIN control affects signal
strength for SW reception. If the signal
is weak, turn AM RF GAIN toward MAX.
If the sound is distorted, turn AM RF
GAIN toward MIN.
Tone
In all bands, adjust TONE for the best
sound.
BFO Switch and BFO Dial
Some SW and LW stations transmit in
Morse Code using a form of transmis-
sion called continuous wave (CW).
Some SW stations use a special type
of voice transmission called single
sideband (SSB).
Silencing the Alarm
When the display shows the alarm
time, the radio turns on or the buzzer
sounds and
play.
flashes on the dis-
To tune to a CW or SSB station, select
the band and frequency and adjust the
antenna. In addition, set the BFO
switch to ON. Then, beginning at its
midpoint, slowly adjust the BFO dial
until the reception becomes clear.
After several seconds, the buzzer’s
volume increases. After a few more
seconds, the volume increases again.
The buzzer automatically stops or the
receiver automatically turns off after 60
minutes. To silence the alarm sooner,
press RADIO POWER. The flashing
disappears and the alarm sounds
again the next day at the set time.
Turning the Alarm Off/On
To turn off the alarm so it does not
sound again, press STANDBY. While
STANDBYflashes, press C.
14
If you then want to set the alarm again,
press STANDBY. While STANDBY
flashes, press ENTER.
MAKING A RECORDING
LOADING A CASSETTE
TAPE
1. Press STOP/EJECT
to open the
cassette compartment’s door.
2. Use your finger or a pencil to turn
the cassette’s hub and take up
any slack.
USING THE SLEEP
TIMER
The sleep timer sets the receiver to
turn off after a length of time you set,
so you can fall asleep as you listen to
the receiver.
1. When the receiver is off, press
SLEEP. The receiver turns on, and
appears on the display.
Avoid touching the tape. Finger-
Note:
prints attract dust and dirt that can af-
fect sound quality.
3. Insert the cassette into the com-
partment with the open side up,
full reel to the right, and the
desired tape side facing you.
2. Repeatedly press SLEEP until the
desired amount of sleep time (15,
30, 60, or 90 minutes) appears on
the display.
3. Tune to the desired station.
After the amount of time you set in
Step 2, the receiver turns itself off. To
turn off the receiver sooner, press RA-
DIO POWER.
4. Close the compartment’s door.
15
USING THE CLOCK RADIO
Your receiver has two clocks. We rec-
ommend you set the primary clock for
local time and the secondary clock for
UTC (Coordinated Universal Time —
formerly called Greenwich Mean
Time), because most shortwave sta-
tions announce broadcast times in
UTC.
2. Press TIME SET. TIME SET
flashes on the display.
The time zone map on the back of the
receiver shows the difference in hours
between UTC and each time zone. To
determine your local time, tune your
receiver to a time standard frequency
(see “Time Standard Frequencies” on
Page 24) and get the current UTC
time. Then add or subtract the speci-
fied number of hours from UTC time.
During Daylight Saving Time, subtract
1 more hour.
3. While TIME SET flashes, set
the correct time by pressing the
number buttons. Do not precede
single-digit hours with a 0. For
example, enter 930 for 9:30 AM.
If you make a mistake, press C
(cancel) to erase the last digit.
SETTING THE CLOCKS
Follow these steps to set each clock.
Both clocks display the time in the 24-
hour format (0:00–23:59).
Note: If you wait more than 15
seconds to press a button, TIME
SETstops flashing and you must
begin again at Step 2.
1. Repeatedly press the right DUAL
4. Press ENTER. The clock starts
TIME button to select the clock
running from the time you set.
you want to set.
appears when
the secondary clock is selected
and disappears when the primary
clock is selected.
16
set the alarm for the UTC broadcast
time, and be sure the display shows
the secondary clock.
Changing the Clock Display
Setting the Alarm
1. Press STANDBY. STANDBYflash-
es on the display and the current
alarm time appears.
To change from one clock display to
the other, press the right DUAL TIME
2. While STANDBY flashes, press
the number buttons to enter the
alarm time.
button.
appears or disappears to
show you which clock you are viewing.
To briefly change the clock display,
hold down the left DUAL TIME button.
Release the left DUAL TIME button to
return to the previous clock display.
If you make a mistake, press C
(cancel) to erase the last digit.
Note: If you wait more than 15
seconds to press
a
button,
STANDBYstops flashing and you
must begin again at Step 1.
USING THE ALARM
(STANDBY) FEATURE
3. Press ENTER.
The clock display returns after a
few seconds. STANDBY stops
flashing and remains on the dis-
play.
You can set a buzzer to sound or have
the radio turn on at a specified time.
The alarm sounds when the current
clock display (either primary or sec-
ondary) shows the alarm time. Be sure
the clock display is set to show the de-
sired clock when the alarm time ar-
rives.
4. Set STANDBY BUZZER/RADIO to
BUZZER to set the buzzer to
sound or to RADIO to set the radio
to turn on at the alarm time.
For example, you can use the alarm to
remind you to tune to a foreign broad-
cast. Set the secondary clock for UTC,
17
PLAYING A CASSETTE TAPE
STANDBY REC
OFF
1. Set
to
.
• To temporarily stop playback,
PAUSE
press
back, press
. To resume play-
PAUSE
again.
• At the end of a tape, the tape
motor automatically stops and the
PLAY
selected
button
(
,
TAPE SELECT
NOR-
RECORD
CUE/FAST-F
2. Set
to either
,
, or
MAL
CrO
REVIEW/REWIND
or
2 according to the type
) pops up.
of tape you are going to play.
• To play the other side, turn the
cassette tape over.
Fast-Forward and Rewind
CUE/FAST-F
Press
to rapidly ad-
REVIEW/REWIND
PLAY
3. Press
. The PLAY indica-
vance a tape. Press
tor lights.
to quickly rewind a tape. When the
tape reaches the desired point, press
STOP/EJECT
.
Caution: To avoid damaging the tape,
do not go directly from rewind to fast-
forward or from fast-forward to rewind
VOLUME
4. Adjust
to a comfortable
STOP/EJECT
without pressing
first.
listening level.
Cue and Review
CUE/FAST-F
Holding down
while
playing a cassette tape lets you cue
(play the cassette tape at high speed)
so you can quickly locate any desired
section on the tape. When you release
STOP/
STOP/EJECT
5. To stop the tape, press
CUE/FAST-F
, the recorder returns
EJECT
. Press
to normal play.
again to open the cassette com-
partment’s door and remove the
cassette tape.
REVIEW/REWIND
Holding down
after you press
PLAY
lets you re-
view (play the cassette tape in re-
verse at high speed). When you
REVIEW/REWIND
release
, the re-
Notes:
18
corder returns to normal play.
RECORDING
Caution: Never attempt to force
RECORD
Recording from the Radio
down
. If you have
STANDBY REC
OFF
1. Set
to
.
removed your cassette’s erase-
protection tabs, you cannot press
2. Load the cassette tape you want
to record on.
RECORD
. See “Accidental Era-
sure Prevention” on Page 32.
TAPE SELECT
CrO
2 or
3. Set
to either
7. To temporarily stop recording,
NORMAL
according to the tape
PAUSE
PAUSE
. Press
press
you loaded.
again to resume recording.
4. Tune to the desired station.
8. When the recording is complete,
VOLUME
STOP/EJECT
5. Adjust
to a comfortable
press
twice, and
listening level.
remove the cassette from the
recorder.
Note: The Automatic Level Con-
trol automatically adjusts the vol-
ume recorded on the tape.
Recording from the Radio
Using the Standby Feature
RECORD
PLAY
6. Press
to begin
automatically
recording.
This feature lets you record your favor-
ite program at a preset time.
goes down and the RECORD indi-
cator lights.
1. Turn on the receiver and tune to
the desired station.
2. Turn off the receiver.
STANDBY REC
ON
.
3. Set
4. Set
to
The DX-392 automatically stops
when the tape reaches the end.
To record the other side, turn the
tape over.
STANDBY BUZZER/RADIO
to
RADIO
.
STANDBY
5. Press
.
19
6. While STANDBYflashes, enter the
starting time of the program you
want to record. Then press
ENTER. STANDBYstops flashing.
Recording AM Broadcasts
Sometimes you might hear a hum or
whistling sound when recording an AM
broadcast. To reduce or eliminate this
sound, set the BEAT CUT switch to the
position that gives you the best record-
ing.
Be sure the clock display is
set to show the desired clock
when the alarm time arrives.
Note:
7. Load a tape with adequate length
for the period you are going to
record. For instance, load a C-60
tape for recording a 30-minute
program.
8. Set TAPE SELECT to either CrO2 or
NORMAL according to the type of
tape you loaded.
9. Press RECORD
(PLAY
auto-
matically goes down). The radio
turns on at the preset time and the
recorder starts recording. The
tape stops automatically at the
end of the tape, but the radio
keeps playing until you turn it off.
Recording Using the Built-In
Microphone
Your cassette recorder has a built-in
condenser microphone on the front. To
record with the built-in microphone, fol-
low the steps in “Recording from the
Radio” on Page 19. But, instead of tun-
ing to a radio station in Step 4, simply
position the DX-392 near the source
you are recording. Then continue with
Step 6.
20
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Listening Safely
CONNECTING
HEADPHONES
To protect your hearing, follow these
guidelines when you use headphones.
• Set the volume to the lowest set-
ting before you begin listening.
After you begin listening, adjust
the volume to a comfortable level.
• Do not listen at extremely high
volume levels. Extended high-
volume listening can lead to per-
manent hearing loss.
For private listening and for stereo
sound during FM stereo broadcasts,
you can connect optional stereo head-
phones with a /8-inch plug. Your local
Radio Shack store sells a wide selec-
tion of stereo headphones.
• Once you set the volume, do not
increase it. Over time, your ears
adapt to the volume level, so a
volume level that does not cause
discomfort might still damage your
hearing.
1
Insert the headphones’ plug into the
receiver’s
jack. This disconnects
LIGHTING THE DISPLAY
the receiver’s internal speaker.
Press LIGHT to briefly light the display.
When you connect stereo headphones
and tune to a stereo broadcast,
ST
appears on the display. For the best
reception, fine tune the receiver until
ST
remains steady.
The display light automatically turns off
about 15 seconds after you release
LIGHT. Press LIGHT again to turn it off
sooner.
21
LOCKING THE
CONTROLS
REFERENCE SOURCES
The lock feature prevents you from ac-
cidentally turning the receiver on or off,
changing the band or frequency, or se-
lecting front-panel buttons.
Many books and magazines about
shortwave listening are available
through your local library or news-
stand. Consult sources such as the
World Radio Handbook, Radio Ama-
teur’s Handbook, Passport to World
Band Radio, Monitoring Times, and
Popular Communications. These pub-
lications can help you learn about the
conditions that make long-distance re-
ception possible and provide up-to-
date listings for shortwave broadcasts
in English and in other languages.
Set the lock switch to
to lock all
ROTA-
the front-panel buttons and the
RY TUNING
dial. You can still adjust
VOLUME TONE
,
, and other controls.
Set the switch to the other position to
unlock the buttons.
FREQUENCY
CONVERSION
ROTARY TUN-
Note: To lock only the
ING
Page 10.
A band is a group of frequencies.
Sometimes, bands are grouped ac-
cording to their wavelengths, in
meters. The tuning location of a station
can be expressed as a frequency (kHz
or MHz) or a wavelength (meters).
dial, see “Using the Rotary Dial” on
LISTENING HINTS
Amateur radio operators generally re-
fer to the frequencies they operate on
using the frequency’s wavelength. For
example, the 19-meter band refers to
the range of frequencies with waves
about 19 meters long.
Shortwave listening is a hobby with
thousands of participants worldwide. It
requires no special knowledge or
skills, but your enjoyment increases as
you gain experience and develop spe-
cial listening techniques.
Use the following equations to convert
kHz, MHz, and meters.
The information in this section can help
you make the most of your DX-392.
To convert MHz to kHz, multiply by
1,000. For example:
9.62 MHz ¥ 1000 = 9,620 kHz
22
To convert kHz to MHz, divide by
1,000. For example:
2780 kHz ³ 1000 = 2.780 MHz
3,800–4,000 kHz: SSB
To convert MHz to meters, divide 300
by the number of MHz. For example:
40 meters:
7,000–7,150 kHz: CW
7,150–7,300 kHz: SSB
300 ³ 7.1 MHz = 42.25 meters
To convert meters to MHz, divide 300
by the number of meters. For exam-
ple:
20 meters:
14,000–14,200 kHz: CW
14,200–14,350 kHz: SSB
300 ³ 42.25 meters = 7.1 MHz
15 meters:
21,000–21,250 kHz: CW
21,250–21,450 kHz: SSB
BAND ALLOCATIONS
Certain bands are set aside for specific
purposes.
10 meters:
28,000–28,500 kHz: CW
28,500–29,700 kHz: SSB
Amateur Radio Frequencies
Note: These ranges are not precisely
observed everywhere in the world.
Tuning to the amateur radio frequen-
cies can be interesting and helpful, be-
cause amateur radio operators often
broadcast emergency information
when other means of communication
break down.
INTERNATIONAL
FREQUENCIES
Amateur radio operators use the fol-
lowing bands. Portions of these bands
are set aside for continuous wave
(CW) Morse code communication or
for single sideband (SSB) voice com-
munication, as shown below.
International commercial broadcasts
are found in the following shortwave
bands. Programs (often in English)
usually contain news, commentaries,
music, and special features reflecting
the culture of the broadcasting country.
Reception for this range is best be-
tween 6:00 PM and midnight (your
160 meters:
1,800–2,000 kHz: SSB
80 meters:
3,500–3,800 kHz: CW
23
time).
4,650–4,750 kHz
6,545–6,765 kHz
8,815–9,040 kHz
11,175–11,400 kHz
13,200–13,360 kHz
15,010–15,100 kHz
17,900–18,030 kHz
Band
(in meters)
Frequency Range
(in MHz)
120 *
90 *
75 *
60 *
49
2.300–2.495
3.200–3.400
3.900–4.000
4.750–5.060
5.900–6.200
Ships and Coastal Station
Frequencies
41**
31
7.100–7.350
9.400–9.990
Most transmissions from ships and
coastal stations are in SSB and CW.
You can hear these transmissions in
the following bands.
25
11.600–12.100
13.600–13.800
15.100–15.800
17.480–17.900
21.450–21.750
25.600–26.100
21
19
2,000–2,300 kHz*
4,063–4,139 kHz
4,361–4,438 kHz
8,195–8,181 kHz
12,330–12,420 kHz
13,107–13,200 kHz
16,460–16,565 kHz
16
13
11
* These bands are reserved for sta-
tions in tropical areas.
** Interference is heavy in the 41m
band (7.100–7.300 MHz) because am-
ateur radio operators and international
stations share this range.
* The Coast Guard and small boats
use this band, with 2,182 kHz set aside
as the international distress and emer-
gency channel.
Aircraft Frequencies
Time Standard Frequencies
Aircraft on international routes some-
times use SW. Most transmissions are
in SSB, although you can still hear
some AM transmissions. Here are
some bands where you might hear air-
craft communications.
The following frequencies announce
the exact time of day at specified inter-
vals.
WWV in Fort Collins, Colorado:
24
2,500 kHz
5,000 kHz
10,000 kHz
15,000 kHz
20,000 kHz
Most stations in this range use CW
(Morse code), although some use AM
voice transmission for weather broad-
casts.
CHU in Canada: 7,335 kHz
VNG in Australia: 4,500 and
12,000 kHz
LISTENING GUIDE
The following list contains some of the
more frequently heard stations. All sta-
tions broadcast in English unless oth-
erwise specified.
Longwave Band
The 150–519 kHz range is known as
the longwave band. Most stations in
this range serve as beacons for aircraft
and marine navigation by continuously
transmitting their call letters. Recep-
tion for this range is best between 6:00
PM and midnight (your time).
You can hear these stations through-
out North America. However, recep-
tion varies based on the season, time
of day, and a number of other condi-
tions.
This information can change at any
time. For sources of yearly, up-to-date
listings, see “Reference Sources” on
Some ships also use this range, with
500 kHz set aside as an international
distress and emergency station.
kHz
Station
Location
Remarks
3,223 Radio SR
Swaziland
3,265 Radio Mozambique
3,300 Radio Cultural
Maputo, Mozambique
Guatemala City,
Guatemala
Religious Programs
3,380 Radio Iris
3,385 FR3
Esmeraldas, Ecuador
Programs in Spanish
Programs in French
Cayenne,
French Guiana
3,396 Radio Kaduna
4,750 Radio Bertoua
Kaduna, Nigeria
Bertoua, Cameroon
25
kHz
Station
Location
Remarks
Remarks
4,755 Imo Regional
Radio
Imo, Nigeria
kHz
Station
Location
4,777 Radio/TV Gabon
Libreville, Gabon
La Paz, Bolivia
Programs in French
Programs in Spanish
4,795 Radio Nueva
America
4,820 Radio Paz y Bien
4,832 Radio Reloj
Ambala, Ecuador
San Jose, Costa Rica
Belem, Brazil
Programs in Spanish
Programs in Spanish
4,855 Radio Clube do
Para
Programs in
Portugese
Page 22.
kHz
Station
Location
Remarks
4,890 National
Papua New Guinea
Broadcasting
Commission
4,915 Voice Kenya
Nairobi, Kenya
4,920 Australian
Broadcasting
Brisbane, Australia
Commission
4,945 Radio Colosal
4,965 Radio Santa Fe
4,980 Ecos del Torbes
Neiva, Colombia
Bogota, Colombia
Programs in Spanish
Programs in Spanish
Programs in Spanish
San Cristobal,
Venezuela
5,020 Solomon Islands
Broadcasting
Honiara, Solomon
Islands
Service
5,057 Radio Gjirokaster
Gjirokaster, Albania
Georgetown, Guyana
Programs in Albanian
5,950 Guyana
Broadcasting
Service
26
kHz
5,954 Radio Casino
kHz Station
Station
Location
Remarks
Remarks
Puerto Limon,
Costa Rica
Location
5,960 Radio Canada
International
Montreal, Canada
5,980 Radio RSA
Johannesburg, South
Africa
6,005 CFCX
Montreal, Canada
6,025 Radio Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia
Programs in Chinese
Programs in Japanese
6,045 Radio Australia
Lyndhurst, Australia
Tokyo, Japan
6,055 Nihon Shortwave
Broadcasting
Company
kHz
Station
Location
Remarks
6,060 Radio Nacional
Buenos Aires,
Argentina
Programs in Spanish
6,075 Radio Sutatenza
Bogota, Colombia
Programs in Spanish
6,090 Radio
Luxembourg
Ville Louvigny,
Luxembourg
6,095 Polskie Radio
Warsaw, Poland
6,105 Radio New
Zealand
Wellington, New
Zealand
7,140 Trans World
Radio
Monte Carlo, Monaco
7,170 Radio Noumea
Noumea, New
Caledonia
Programs in French
7,300 Radio Tirana
9,475 Radio Cairo
9,515 Voice of Greece
9,525 Radio Korea
Tirana, Albania
Cairo, Egypt
Athens, Greece
Seoul, South Korea
27
kHz
Station
Location
Remarks
Remarks
9,530 Spanish Foreign
Radio
Madrid, Spain
Location
kHz
Station
9,535 Swiss Radio
International
Berne, Switzerland
9,540 Radio Prague
Prague,
Czech Republic
9,570 Radio Bucharest
Bucharest, Romania
Rome, Italy
9,575 Italian Radio and
Television
Service
9,610 Radio-TV Algeria
Algiers, Algeria
Berlin, Germany
Programs in Arabic
9,620 Radio Berlin
International
kHz
Station
Location
Remarks
9,645
9,720
9,745
9,770
9,800
9,835
Radio Norway
Radio Iran
Oslo, Norway
Tehran, Iran
Programs in Farsi
HCJB
Quito, Ecuador
Vienna, Austria
Kiev, Ukraine
Austrian Radio
Radio Kiev
Radio Budapest
Budapest, Hungary
Hanoi, Vietnam
Jerusalem, Israel
Kuwait City, Kuwait
Stockholm, Sweden
Moscow, Russia
Sofia, Bulgaria
10,040 Voice of Vietnam
11,655 Israel Radio
11,690 Radio Kuwait
11,705 Radio Sweden
11,720 Radio Moscow
11,735 Radio Sofia
28
kHz
Station
Location
Remarks
Remarks
11,745 Voice of Free
China
Taipei, Taiwan
kHz
Station
Location
11,815 Radio Japan
11,825 Radio Tahiti
11,835 4VEH
Tokyo, Japan
Papeete, Tahiti
Cap Haitien, Haiti
Montreal, Canada
Programs in Tahitian
11,845 Radio Canada
International
11,850 Deutsche Welle
11,890 Voice of Chile
11,900 Radio RSA
Cologne, Germany
Santiago, Chile
Johannesburg, South
Africa
11,910 BBC
London, England
kHz
Station
Location
Remarks
11,930 Radio Havana
Cuba
Havana, Cuba
11,935 Radio Portugal
11,945 Radio Beijing
11,955 Voice of Turkey
11,980 Radio Moscow
Lisbon, Portugal
Beijing, China
Ankara, Turkey
Moscow, Russia
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
15,038 Saudi Arabian
Broadcasting
Programs in Arabic
Programs in Farsi
Service
15,084 Voice of Iran
15,135 Radio Moscow
15,165 HCJB
Tehran, Iran
Moscow, Russia
Quito, Ecuador
Brussels, Belgium
15,190 ORU
29
kHz
Station
Location
Remarks
Remarks
15,205 All India Radio
kHz Station
New Delhi, India
Location
15,260 BBC
London, England
Helsinki, Finland
Stockholm, Sweden
Berne, Switzerland
15,265 Finnish Radio
15,275 Radio Sweden
15,305 Swiss Radio
International
15,310 Radio Japan
15,320 Radio Australia
15,400 BBC
Tokyo, Japan
Melbourne, Australia
London, England
Mexico City, Mexico
15,430 Radio Mexico
Programs in
Spanish
15,465 Radio Pakistan
Islamabad, Pakistan
Programs in Urdu
30
kHz
Station
Location
Remarks
17,720 Radio France
International
Paris, France
17,825 Vatican Radio
17,860 Austrian Radio
21,495 Israel Radio
21,525 Radio Australia
21,625 Israel Radio
Vatican City
Vienna, Austria
Jerusalem, Israel
Melbourne, Australia
Jerusalem, Israel
Paris, France
21,645 Radio France
International
21,735 Radio-TV
Morocco
Rabat, Morocco
Programs in Arabic
25,790 Radio RSA
Johannesburg, South
Africa
BIRDIES
Birdies are the products of internally generated signals that make some frequencies
difficult or impossible to receive. If you program one of these frequencies, you hear
only noise on that frequency. The most common birdies to watch for are listed below.
450 kHz
3,844 kHz
9,000 kHz
10,250 kHz
18,000 kHz
20,490 kHz
21,835 kHz
21,868 kHz
31
TAPE TIPS AND TECHNIQUES
The following suggestions will help you get the best performance from your cas-
settes and cassette deck.
STORING YOUR CASSETTES
• Keep them away from excessive dust and dirt.
• Do not expose them to moisture or high humidity.
• Keep them away from strong magnetic fields that can be generated by other
electronic devices (transformers, motors, and so on).
• Store them in protective plastic containers. Your local Radio Shack store offers a
complete selection of tape storage containers.
ERASING TAPES
Each time you record on a cassette tape, the previous recording is automatically
erased.
If you want to erase a tape without making a new recording, load the tape into the
cassette compartment and press RECORD
. The deck erases the tape as the
tape passes the record head. If you want to quickly erase a tape, you might prefer
to use a bulk tape eraser, available at your local Radio Shack store. It erases both
sides of an entire tape in a few seconds.
Note: The built-in microphone records any sounds in the area onto the tape as you
record. Be sure to place the radio in a quiet area if you want to erase a tape by re-
cording over it.
ACCIDENTAL ERASURE PREVENTION
All cassettes have erase-protection tabs. When in place, these tabs let you record
on the tape. Once you remove these tabs, you cannot press RECORD . To avoid
erasing or recording over Side A (or 1), break off the Side A (or 1) tab with a screw
32
driver. If you wish to protect Side B (or 2), remove the Side B (or 2) tab.
To record on the tape again, place a piece of strong plastic tape over the erase-pro-
tection tab holes.
Note: Removal of the erase-protection tab does not prevent a bulk eraser from eras-
ing the tape.
Caution: When using a cassette that has had the erase-protection tabs broken off,
RECORD
do not try to force down
anism.
. Doing so might damage the recording mech-
TAPE TENSION
After you play a cassette tape several times, the tape might become tightly wound
on the reels. This can cause playback sound quality to deteriorate.
To restore the sound quality, fast-forward the tape from the beginning to the end of
one side, then completely rewind it. Then loosen the tape reels by gently tapping
each side of the cassette’s outer shell on a flat surface.
Caution: Be careful not to damage the cassette when tapping it. Do not touch the
exposed tape or allow any sharp objects near the cassette.
33
CLEANING THE TAPE MECHANISM
After repeated use, dust, lint and tape
oxides accumulate on the tape-han-
dling mechanisms. For the best perfor-
mance and sound quality, clean the
record/play heads, pinch rollers, cap-
stans, and erase head after approxi-
mately every 20 hours of use. You can
use recorder cleaner and cleaning
swabs or a convenient head-cleaner
cassette. All these cleaning products
are available at your local Radio Shack
store.
34
TROUBLESHOOTING
Your receiver should give you years of
trouble-free service if you follow the in-
structions given in this manual. If you
have problems, the chart below might
help.
If you still have problems after follow-
ing the suggestions below, take the re-
ceiver to your local Radio Shack
storefor assistance.
Problem
Cause
Weak or intermittent sound.
• The primary-power batteries are
weak.
• Antenna needs adjusting.
• Metal is blocking the signal. Move
the receiver near a window when
you use it inside a vehicle or metal
frame building.
• Frequency needs fine tuning. See
“Tuning” on Page 9.
Scan stops when there is no clear sig- This is caused by birdies. See “Bird-
nal.
ies” on Page 31. Using an outdoor an-
tenna might reduce these signals.
Frequency does not change when you
FAST/FINE/LOCK switch is set to
turn ROTARY TUNING.
LOCK.
ROTARY TUNING and front panel but-
If
appears on the display, the lock
tons do not respond.
switch is set to
.
35
RESETTING THE RADIO
If the radio displays random characters or the display does not work properly, you
might need to reset it.
Important: This procedure clears all information you stored in the radio’s memory.
Reset the radio only when you are sure it is not working properly.
1. Remove the battery compartment’s cover by pushing the cover in the direction
of the arrow.
RESET
2. Insert a pointed object, such as a straightened paper clip, into the
inside the battery compartment. Then gently press then release
hole
RESET
.
36
MAINTENANCE
Wipe the receiver with a
damp cloth occasionally to
keep it looking new. Do not
CARING FOR THE
RECEIVER
use
harsh
chemicals,
Your Radio Shack DX-392 PLL All-
Band Portable Receiver with Cassette
Recorder is an example of superior de-
sign and craftsmanship. The following
suggestions will help you care for your
receiver so you can enjoy it for years.
cleaning solvents, or strong
detergents to clean your re-
ceiver.
Modifying or tampering with your re-
ceiver’s internal components can
cause a malfunction and might invali-
date the receiver’s warranty and void
your FCC authorization to operate the
receiver. If your receiver is not per-
forming as it should, take it to your lo-
cal Radio Shack store for assistance.
Use only fresh batteries of
the recommended size and
type. Never leave dead or
weak batteries in the re-
ceiver. They might leak
chemicals that can damage
the receiver.
Keep the receiver dry. If it
gets wet, wipe it dry imme-
diately. Liquids can contain
minerals that can corrode
the electronic circuits.
THE FCC WANTS YOU
TO KNOW
Your receiver might cause interference
on other radio/TV devices even when it
is operating properly. To determine
whether your receiver is causing the
interference, turn off your receiver. If
the interference goes away, your re-
ceiver is causing it.
Handle the receiver gently
and carefully. Dropping it
can damage circuit boards
and can cause the receiver
to work improperly.
Use and store the receiver
only in normal temperature
environments. Tempera-
ture extremes can shorten
the life of electronic devic-
es, damage batteries, and
distort or melt plastic parts.
Try to eliminate the interference by:
• Moving your receiver away from
the other device.
• Connecting your receiver to an
outlet that is on a different electri-
cal circuit from the other device.
Keep the receiver away
from dust and dirt, which
can cause premature wear
of parts.
• Contacting your local Radio
Shack store for help.
37
SPECIFICATIONS
Tape Speed17/8 ips (4.76 cm/s) ±
3%
Recording SystemAC Bias
Erasing SystemMagnetic Erasing
Frequency Response125–8000 Hz
Signal to Noise Ratio (Play)Normal
46 dB, Limit 40 dB
Circuit:
FMHeterodyne
LW/MW/SWDual-Conversion Het-
erodyne
Frequency Range:
FM87.5–108 MHz
Jacks:
LW150–519 kHz
MW520–1,710 kHz
SW1.711–29.999 MHz
SW Sub-Bands:
External PowerDC IN 6V
Stereo Headphones 1/8-Inch
Power Sources:
2.300 – 2.495 MHz (120 meters)
11.600 – 12.100 MHz (25
meters)
3.200 – 3.400 MHz (90 meters)
13.570 – 13.870 MHz (21
meters)
3.900 – 4.000 MHz (75 meters)
15.100 – 15.800 MHz (19
meters)
Back-Up3 AA Batteries
Primary(4) D Batteries
AC (Requires Optional Adapter)6V/
400mA, Center Tip Negative
DC (Requires Optional Adapter)6V/
400mA, Center Tip Negative
4.750 – 5.060 MHz (60 meters)
17.480 – 17.900 MHz (16
meters)
5.900 – 6.200 MHz (49 meters)
21.450 – 21.750 MHz (13
meters)
7.100 – 7.350 MHz (41 meters)
25.600 – 26.100 MHz (11
meters)
9.400 – 9.990 MHz (31 meters)
Antenna:
LW/MWBuilt-In Ferrite
SWTelescoping or Optional Exter-
nal
FMTelescoping
Output700 mW @ 10% THD
Recorder:
38
Battery Life (Alkaline Batteries):
Back-Up (Radio Off).................................................................... Up to 375 Days
Primary............................................. 75 Hours Continuous Operation @ 50 mW
Dimensions (HWD) ............................71/2 ¥ 117/8 ¥ 27/8 Inches (192 ¥ 300 ¥ 75 mm)
Weight.................................................................... 3.2 lbs (1.4 kg without batteries)
Specifications are typical; individual units might vary. Specifications are subject to
change and improvement without notice.
39
Limited Ninety-Day Warranty
This product is warranted by Radio Shack against manufacturing defects in material and workmanship under
normal use for ninety (90) days from the date of purchase from Radio Shack company-owned stores and au-
thorized Radio Shack franchisees and dealers. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED HEREIN, Radio Shack MAKES NO
EXPRESS WARRANTIES AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THOSE OF MERCHANTABIL-
ITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE DURATION OF
THE WRITTEN LIMITED WARRANTIES CONTAINED HEREIN. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED HEREIN, Radio
Shack SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY TO CUSTOMER OR ANY OTHER PERSON OR
ENTITY WITH RESPECT TO ANY LIABILITY, LOSS OR DAMAGE CAUSED DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY
BY USE OR PERFORMANCE OF THE PRODUCT OR ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH OF THIS WAR-
RANTY, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY DAMAGES RESULTING FROM INCONVENIENCE,
LOSS OF TIME, DATA, PROPERTY, REVENUE, OR PROFIT OR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL,
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, EVEN IF Radio Shack HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF
SUCH DAMAGES.
Some states do not allow the limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusion of incidental or
consequential damages, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you.
In the event of a product defect during the warranty period, take the product and the Radio Shack sales re-
ceipt as proof of purchase date to any Radio Shack store. Radio Shack will, at its option, unless otherwise
provided by law: (a) correct the defect by product repair without charge for parts and labor; (b) replace the
product with one of the same or similar design; or (c) refund the purchase price. All replaced parts and prod-
ucts, and products on which a refund is made, become the property of Radio Shack. New or reconditioned
parts and products may be used in the performance of warranty service. Repaired or replaced parts and prod-
ucts are warranted for the remainder of the original warranty period. You will be charged for repair or replace-
ment of the product made after the expiration of the warranty period.
This warranty does not cover: (a) damage or failure caused by or attributable to acts of God, abuse, accident,
misuse, improper or abnormal usage, failure to follow instructions, improper installation or maintenance, alter-
ation, lightning or other incidence of excess voltage or current; (b) any repairs other than those provided by a
Radio Shack Authorized Service Facility; (c) consumables such as fuses or batteries; (d) cosmetic damage;
(e) transportation, shipping or insurance costs; or (f) costs of product removal, installation, set-up service ad-
justment or reinstallation.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to
state.
Radio Shack Customer Relations, Dept. W, 100 Throckmorton St., Suite 600, Fort Worth, TX 76102
We Service What We Sell
3/97
RADIO SHACK
A Division of Tandy Corporation
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
3816526A
12A6
Printed in Taiwan
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