Eton FR-300 User manual

FR300
AM/FM Radio with NOAA, TV VHF,
Flashlight, and Cell Phone Charger
OWNER’S MANUAL
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DO YOU NEED HELP?
Thank you for purchasing the FR300 AM/FM/NOAA-WEATHER/ VHF-
TV radio – a perfect ‘emergency’ radio, a great radio for daily use and
a portable cell phone charger when other charging methods are out
of reach. Its unique design allows it to be powered from a variety of
sources: 1.) From the built-in rechargeable Ni-MH battery that takes
charge from the dynamo crank and from an AC adaptor (AC adaptor not
included); 2.) From 3 AA batteries; 3.) From the
AC adaptor alone (AC adaptor not included); 4.) From the dynamo crank
alone, even with no battery pack installed.
Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.,
North American Pacic Time.
1-800-872-2228 from the U.S.
1-800-637-1648 from Canada
1-650-903-3866, worldwide
FAX: [phone]
[e-mail]
Web Site: www.etoncorp.com
Mailing Address:
Etón Corporation
1015 Corporation Way
Palo Alto, CA 94303
USA
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FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL
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FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DO YOU NEED HELP?...................................................................................................................
TABLE OF CONTENTS.................................................................................................................
MAJOR FEATURES OF THE FR300...................................................................................
POWER SOUCES..............................................................................................................................
• ABOUT THE BUILT-IN RECHARGEABLE BATTERY............................................
• USING DYNAMO POWER.......................................................................................................
• AA BATTERY OPERATION....................................................................................................
• PREVENTING BATTERY ACID LEAKAGE....................................................................
• EMERGENCY OPERATION WITH NO POWER SOURCE....................................
• USING AN EXTERNAL POWER SOURCE AND NI-MH.
BATTERY CHARGING...............................................................................................................
• AC ADAPTER/CHARGER SPEFICIFCATIONS............................................................
• USING THE FR300 AS A CELL-PHONE CHARGER.............................................
OPERATION GUIDE........................................................................................................................
• TURNING THE FR300 ON AND OFF............................................................................
• ADJUSTING THE VOLUME....................................................................................................
•TUNING-IN AM/FM OR TV STATIONS...........................................................................
• TUNING-IN NOAA WEATHER STATIONS...................................................................
• USING THE EMERGENCY LIGHTS...................................................................................
• USING THE SIREN.......................................................................................................................
• USING THE EARPHONE.........................................................................................................
WARRANTY REGISTRATION..............................................................................................
LIMITED WARRANTY TO THE ORIGINAL CUSTORMER.................................
SERVICE INFORMATION........................................................................................................
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FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL
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• AM, FM, NOAA WEATHER BAND, VHF-TV
• Built-in power generator recharges the internal rechargeable
Ni-MH battery and cell phone batteries.
• Charge via cranking or optional AC adaptor.
• 2 1/2 Inch Diameter Spe
• Emergency light.
• Siren.
• Fine tuning control.
• DC Jack.
• Earphone jack – 3.5mm stereo earphone socket.
• Phone charger output jack 3.5mm.
• Rotatable telescopic antenna for FM, NOAA and TV. Built-in ferrite
bar antenna for AM reception.
• Can be operated on three AA size batteries.
3 MAJOR FEATURES OF THE FR300

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FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL
ABOUT THE BUILT-IN RECHARGEABLE BATTERY
The included rechargeable battery pack is located in the battery
compartment and is charged by cranking the dynamo rapidly. When
it no longer holds a charge, replacements can be purchased directly
from Eton Corporation. It is specied as 3.6 VDC, 600 mAh, nickel-
metal-hydride (Ni-MH).
USING DYNAMO POWER
Turning the dynamo crank charges the built-in Ni-MH battery pack.
It can be charged with the FR300 turned on or off, most efciently
with the radio off. While charging, the red LED charging light will be
on (top left of FR300). Play time depends on a variety of factors,
such as rapidity of cranking, length of time cranked and the audio
volume at which the radio is played.
1. Switch the power selector to the OFF position.
2. Turn the dynamo-crank vigorously either clockwise or counter-
clockwise for a comfortable period of time.
3. To turn the radio on, switch the power selector switch to the
center DYNAMO/ADAPTOR position.
AA BATTERY OPERATION
The FR300 is designed to operate on three AA batteries (not
included). Best overall performance results with the use of alkaline
or lithium AA batteries. Rechargeable AA batteries can also be used,
however they must be charged in their own external charger. Lithium
AA batteries are more costly and harder to nd, yet provide two to
four times the playtime of alkalines and provide a much longer shelf
life.
Install the batteries by removing the battery compartment cover and

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FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL
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following the battery polarity diagrams imprinted on the underside
of the cover. Remove the cover by simultaneously pressing on the
indentation labeled OPEN and pulling it. To play the FR300 on its AA
batteries, turn the radio on by setting the power selector switch to
the BATTERY position.
Note: When an AC adaptor is in use, the AA batteries are automati-
cally switched off and may be left in.
PREVENTING BATTERY ACID LEAKAGE
To avoid battery acid leakage, only use high quality alkaline, lithium or
rechargeable nickel-metal-hydride batteries. Never intermix old with
new, or different brands or types of batteries. Damage caused by
battery acid leakage is not covered by this product’s warranty. If the
batteries leak, don’t throw them away and immediately contact the
manufacturer of the batteries to inquire about their battery leakage
warranty program.
EMERGENCY OPERATION WITH NO POWER SOURCE
Even if no power source is available, including the Ni-MH battery
pack, the radio and the light can still be operated by continually
turning the dynamo crank with the power selector switch in the
DYNAMO/ADAPTOR position.
USING AN EXTERNAL POWER SOURCE AND NI-MH
BATTERY CHARGING
The FR300 can be powered via an AC adaptor/charger (not included).
Using an AC adaptor/charger automatically charges the internal Ni-
MH battery pack. If the adaptor/charger meets the correct specica-
tions it can be left plugged in without damaging the Ni-MH battery
pack. When the battery pack is depleted it takes about 8 hours to
charge it using the proper AC adaptor/charger. The Ni-MH battery
pack will take charge with the power selector switch set to any of its
positions. While charging, the red LED charging light will be on (top

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FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL
left of FR200). For proper operation, the AC adaptor/charger must
meet the specications described below.
AC ADAPTER/CHARGER SPECIFICATIONS
Output of 4.5 volt DC; negative polarity; 200 milliamperes current
capability; plug tip outer diameter of 3.4 millimeter, inner diameter of
1.3 millimeter.
To power the FR300 with an AC adaptor/charger, plug it in and set
the power selector switch to the DYNAMO/ADAPTOR position.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If using an AC adaptor rated higher than
200 milliamps, unplug the internal rechargeable battery to avoid
damaging it.
USING THE FR300 AS A CELL-PHONE CHARGER
Because cell phone batteries vary in their current ratings, we cannot
specify charging rates or usage time.
There are two cellphone charging methods:
METHOD 1 – dynamo.
1. Slide the power selector switch to the OFF position.
2. Attach the cell phone to the FR300 with the cell phone extension
wire and correct plug tip for your phone.
3. Rotate the dynamo crank either clockwise or counter-clockwise
at about 2 turns per second. (The cell phone Charging Indicator will
activate during charging).

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FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL
FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL
METHOD 2 – AC adaptor/charger (not included).
1. Slide the power selector switch to the OFF position.
2. Attach the cell phone to the FR300 with the cell phone extension
wire and correct plug tip for your phone.
3. Plug in the AC adaptor/charger to its socket on the radio.
TURNING THE FR300 ON AND OFF
Turn it on by selecting a power source of your choice as described
above and by setting the power selector switch to the appropriate
position, DYNAMO/ADAPTOR or BATTERY. Turn it off by setting the
power selector switch to the OFF position.
ADJUSTING THE VOLUME
Turn the VOLUME control knob until the desired volume level is heard.
TUNING-IN AM/FM OR TV STATIONS
Set the band selector slide switch to the AM, FM, TV1 or TV2 posi-
tion. Tune stations in with the TUNING knob, using the superim-
posed FINE TUNING control as desired. For best FM and TV reception,
fully extend the telescopic antenna. FM/TV reception can often be
improved by rotating the telescopic antenna. For AM reception, the
telescopic antenna need not be extended, as the AM antenna is an
internal, directional, ferrite bar antenna. For best AM reception, rotate
the radio until the best signal strength is achieved.
TUNING-IN NOAA WEATHER STATIONS
NOAA stands for National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration.
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FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL
Its web site is http://www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr/. NOAA broadcasts
are heard in many, but not all, communities in the United States. The
broadcasts are normally 24 hours per day. The same channels are
used in Canada by Environment Canada, http://www.ec.gc.ca/.
To receive the broadcasts, the radio must be within range of the
broadcast site. Since these broadcasts take place on VHF, line-of-
site channels, the actual range varies, depending upon terrain and
obstructions.
Select the WX position with the slide switch. There are seven NOAA
channels. Use the 7 position NOAA WX knob to select the strongest
weather channel in your area (usually only one of the channels). To
receive weather ‘alerts’, leave the radio on at a volume of your
preference and select the ALERT position with the switch labeled
SIREN/OFF/ALERT. The radio will remain silent until the special ‘alert’
broadcast occurs. The NOAA service broadcasts practice alerts every
Wednesday between 11 am and Noon.
USING THE EMERGENCY LIGHTS
Set the LIGHT/OFF/FLASH switch to the FLASH or LIGHT position.
USING THE SIREN
Set the SIREN/OFF/ALERT switch to the SIREN position.
USING THE EARPHONE JACK
Plug in a set of earphones (not included) of your choice that have
a 1/8 inch mono or stereo plug. When using earphones the built-in
speaker will be switched off automatically. Note that stereo ear-
phones will work and sound will be heard from both sides, although
the sound is not stereo.

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6 WARRANTY REGISTRATION
To ensure full warranty coverage or product updates, registration of
your Etón or Grundig product should be complete as soon as possible
after purchase or receipt. To register your radio, please select one of
the following methods:
FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL
FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL
1) Register by visiting our
website at
http://www.etoncorp.com
2) Call our toll-free registration
number anywhere in the
United States or Canada at
[phone] or world-
wide by dialing
[phone]. French and
English speaking operators
available.
3) Mail your registration
information to the following
address:
Etón Corporation
1015 Corporation Way
Palo Alto, CA 94303
Product Registration
Include your name, full mailing
address, phone number, model
purchased, date purchased, retail
vendor name and product serial
number (typically located in or
near the battery compartment).

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7 LIMITED WARRANTY TO THE ORIGINAL
CUSTOMER
This Etón or Grundig brand product, as supplied and distributed by
Etón Corporation (Etón) is warranted by Etón against manufacturing
defects in material and workmanship for the following limited
warranty period:
ONE (1) YEAR PARTS AND LABOR
This limited warranty begins on the original date of purchase, and is
valid only on products purchased through an authorized Etón retailer
and does not include transportation, installation, removal or
reinstallation. Warranty repairs must be performed by Etón or Etón’s
authorized service center. To receive warranty service, the original
dated bill of sale must be presented upon request as proof of
purchase to Etón or Etón’s authorized service center. Transportation
to Etón or Etón’s authorized service center is the responsibility of
the purchaser.
Etón will repair or replace this product, at our option and at no
charge with new or reconditioned parts, if found to be defective dur-
ing the limited warranty period specied above. The product must
be returned no later than 15 days beyond the expiration of the war-
ranty period with transportation charges prepaid to Etón or Etón’s
designated service center for warranty coverage. Prior to return-
ing any product for warranty service, the purchaser must
contact Etón for problem determination and service
procedure. All replaced parts and products become the property of
Etón. Replacement parts and products assume the remaining original
warranty, or ninety (90) days, whichever is longer.
This limited warranty covers manufacturing defects in material and
workmanship encountered in normal, noncommercial use of this
product and shall not apply to the following, including, but not
limited to: damage which occurs due to applications and uses for
FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL

which the product was not intended; failures or problems which are
caused by products or equipment not supplied by Etón; accidents,
misuse, abuse, neglect, misapplication, re, water, lightning, or other
acts of nature; incorrect line voltage, uctuations or surges; damage
caused by improper or faulty installation (including batteries, which
may create an acid leak with irreversible circuit damage); damage
caused by acid leakage; product alteration or modication; or use of
unauthorized parts, supplies, accessories, or equipment which dam-
age this product or result in service problems.
7 LIMITED WARRANTY TO THE ORIGINAL
CUSTOMER continued
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FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL
FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL
SERVICE YOUR ETÓN OR GRUNDIG PRODUCT
To obtain service for your Etón or Grundig product we recommend
rst contacting an Etón service representative at 800-872-2228
US, 800-637-1648 Canada or [phone] for problem determi-
nation and trouble-shooting. Many of the common questions can be
resolved quickly over the phone.
THERE ARE TWO SERVICE TYPES SHOULD YOUR ETÓN OR
GRUNDIG PRODUCT NEED REPAIR.
8 SERVICE INFORMATION
1) WARRANTY– If your
product is still in warranty
and the Etón service repre-
sentative determines that
warranty service is needed,
a return authorization will
be issued and instruc-
tions for shipment to an
authorized warranty repair
facility. Do Not ship your
radio back without obtain-
ing the return authorization
number.
2) NON-WARRANTY–
If your product is no longer
under warranty and requires
service our technical staff
will refer you to the nearest
repair facility that will be
able to best handle the
repair.

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FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL

Etón Corporation
Corporate Headquarters
1015 Corporation Way
Palo Alto, California 94303 USA
tel [phone]
tel [phone]
fax [phone]
Etón Europe/Lextronix Germany
Rosenstrasse 2
D-10178 Berlin, Germany
tel +49 [0]30 243102142
Etón Canada
1 Yonge Street, Suite 1801
Toronto, Ontario M5E 1W7 Canada
tel + 1 416-214-6885
v. 01-04-06
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FR300 OWNER’S MANUAL