First Alert Public Alert WX-268 User manual

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contents in this package
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS-------------------------------------------------3
CARE AND MAINTENANCE--------------------------------------------------4
FCC NOTICE TO USERS -----------------------------------------------------5
INTRODUCTION -----------------------------------------------------------------6
MAIN FEATURES----------------------------------------------------------------7
LOCATION OF CONTROLS --------------------------------------------------8
DESCRIPTION OF CONTROLS---------------------------------------------9
BATTERY INSTALLATION ----------------------------------------------------10
CHAPTER 1 - BASIC OPERATION
1.1 CHOOSING A LOCATION------------------------------------11
1.2 CONNECTING POWER----------------------------------------11
1.3 LANGUAGE SELECTION--------------------------------------12
1.4 SETTING THE CLOCK -----------------------------------------12-13
1.5 SETTING WEATHER CHANNEL ................................. 13-14
SETTING ALERT VOLUME -----------------------------------------14
CHAPTER 2 - RECOMMENDED PROGRAMMING
2.1 SETTING SAME LOCATION----------------------------------14-15
2.2 SELECTING EAS SOURCE -----------------------------------16
2.3 SETTING AM/FM CHANNELS --------------------------------17
2.4 SETTING ALARM CLOCK, SLEEP AND SNOOZE..... 17
2.5 AUTO-SET ATOMIC (NIST) CLOCK............................. 18
CHAPTER 3 - ADVANCED PROGRAMMING OPTIONS
3.1 SET ALERTING OPTIONS ------------------------------------18
3.2 SETTING EVENT BLOCKING --------------------------------18
MENU TREE DIAGRAM -------------------------------------------------------20
APPENDIX A - NOTES AND TIPS ------------------------------------------21
APPENDIX B - HANDICAPPED ACCESSORIES ........................... 22
WALL MOUNTING--------------------------------------------------------------22
NOAA MESSAGE TABLE -----------------------------------------------------23
TROUBLESHOOTING----------------------------------------------------------24-26
SPECIFICATIONS ---------------------------------------------------------------26
SERVICE ---------------------------------------------------------------------------27
WARRANTY -----------------------------------------------------------------------28
• One Public AlertTM Radio – WX-268
• One AC Power Adapter
120VAC: 9VAC
• One User’s Manual (this document)
• One Wall Mounting Kit
1 bracket, 2 screws, 2 wall anchors
• One Quick Start Guide

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IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
When using electrical appliances, the following basic safety precautions should
always be followed.
CAUTION!
The Manufacturer does not represent this unit to be waterproof. To reduce the risk
of fire, electrical shock, or damage to the unit, do not expose this unit to rain or
moisture or immerse in water.
CAUTION!
This product has the capability to operate with five (5) 1.5V AA batteries (either
rechargeable Nicad, NiMH or non-rechargeable alkaline), Please dispose of
batteries properly or recycle at the end of the life of the battery. Do not incinerate
or compost batteries, as they can explode at high temperatures. Contact your
local authority for information concerning reclamation and disposal of
rechargeable nickel-cadmium batteries. Cadmium is a chemical identified by
Proposition 65 in the State of California to cause cancer.
CAUTION!
This product has a built-in circuit for charging five (5) 1.5V AA rechargeable NiCad
or NiMH batteries. When regular alkaline batteries are used as a backup power
source, set the selection switch in the battery compartment to the “Alkaline”
position to switch off the internal charger.
CHARGING ALKALINE BATTERIES CAN CAUSE LEAKAGE OR A FIRE
DANGER!
To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not disassemble this product. Take it to a
manfacturer authorized service personnel when service or repair work is required.
Opening or removing cover voids warranty. This unit does not contain any parts
that can be repaired by the user.

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- The output jacks for the Remote Alert provide a floating relay contact output to external
warning devices. The contact will close when an alert broadcast has been received.
Do not exceed the maximum voltage or current rating of the contacts - 1 Amp (A) @
30V DC.
- Wipe unit with a damp cloth occasionally to clean. Do not use harsh chemicals, cleaning
solvents or strong detergents.
- Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord.
- Do not locate this product where persons walking on it could damage the cord. Keep
cord away from heated surfaces.
- To disconnect, grip the AC adapter and pull it from the wall outlet. Never disconnect by
pulling on the cord.
- This product is designed to operate using the AC adapter supplied in a household
application or 12V DC for portable use.
- LCD screens can change color in extreme temperatures. If the unit is exposed to
temperatures below -20ºC (-5ºF) or above +60ºC (+140ºF), the display may
temporarily cease to function properly, or could result in permanent damage.
CAUTION!
You should understand the danger of lightning striking an external antenna and
make appropriate measures to protect yourself from injury and fire hazard resulted
from a lightning strike on an external antenna.
- When an external antenna is used, make sure that there is sufficient lightning
protection on the antenna and its cable feed. Make sure all the ground
connections are sound and fit. Do not get close to the unit when it is operating
during a thunderstorm.
- Lower, retract or remove the telescopic antenna when using an external
antenna.
- Contact your external antenna supplier for more information on lightning
protection and grounding issues on your antenna. You could also get
information from lightning protection device suppliers.
Care and Maintenance

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FCC NOTICE TO USERS
The system may cause interference to a TV or radio even when it is operating properly. To determine
whether the system is causing the interference, turn it off. If the interference goes away, the system is
causing the interference. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there
is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off
and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is needed.
• Contact your dealer for help.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference.
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
WARNING: changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible
for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment
IMPORTANT!
Clear voice reception is important, but does not guarantee that an emergency alert will trigger your unit’s
alert siren. To test actual reception and alert response, your unit must receive a test or emergency alert
signal broadcast. The National Weather Service (NWS) broadcasts a test alert every week typically on
Wednesday between 11AM and 12PM (noon). The radio will warn you if it has not received an alert within
10 days.To find out the specific test schedule in your area, contact your local National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) or National Weather Service (NWS) office - 1-898-697-7263. These
offices are usually listed in the telephone book under “US Government” or visit the NOAA website at
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr/
REMEMBER – FOR YOUR SYSTEM TO BE EFFECTIVE, YOU MUST PLACE IT WHERE IT CAN
RECEIVE AN EMERGENCY ALERT SIGNAL AND WHERE YOU CAN HEAR ITS ALERT SIREN OR SEE
ITS FLASHING LIGHTS.

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INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on your purchase of the First Alert®brand Public AlertTM Radio, Model
WX-268. This product complies with the exacting standards for CEA-2009 Public AlertTM
devices, and will provide reliability, long life and outstanding performance. The WX-268
receives digitally encoded civil and weather emergency alert messages transmitted from
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Weather Radio (NWR) broadcast
towers. NOAA has more than 900 towers in the 50 states and near adjacent coastal
waters, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the U.S. Pacific Territories. The WX-268
Public AlertTM Radio receives all 7 NOAA weather channels and uses Specific Area
Message Encoding (S.A.M.E.) technology to
identify specific areas, like a county or portion of
a state.
The WX-268 also receives alerts broadcast
by the Emergency Alert System (EAS) over
commercial AM and FM stations.
In addition, the WX-268 receives the signal
from the atomic clock at the National Institiute
of Standards and Technologies. The NIST clock
automatically sets the correct time and date and
adjusts for daylight savings time.
How it works
The WX-268 displays NOAA and EAS text
messages on the LCD screen. When an alert is
received, the alert siren sounds and the radio automatically switches to the voice
broadcast. Messages are identified by one of three color-coded LED lights as follows:
“Advisory” (yellow), “Watch” (orange) or “Warning” (red). External handicapped
accessory devices are also triggered, if connected.
To simplify programming, the WX-268 has a built-in database of over 3000 state and
county locations. You can select up to 20 locations for your radio to respond to. Note:
You must select the correct weather channel to receive warnings from NOAA for
the state/county locations that you have programmed.
There are advanced optional settings which you can use, such as Event Blocking,
Alerting Options and Select Source to customize the response of your radio. For up-to-
date information on NOAA and weather frequencies used in your area, check the NOAA
web site at http://www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr. Call 1-888-NWR-SAME (1-888-697-7263)
for further information.

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NOAA/EAS Alert Function
Your Public AlertTM Radio will automatically sound an alert tone siren and flash the
corresponding LED color indicator when it receives a weather or civil emergency
broadcast from NOAA (Weather Band) or EAS (AM/FM Bands).
Specific Area Message Encoding (S.A.M.E.)
Allows you to store up to 20 different location codes into memory. Each code identifies
a specific geographic area, typically a county as defined by NOAA and EAS. Setting
the S.A.M.E. location helps reduce unnecessary alerts.
Alphanumeric Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)
The LCD displays the NOAA weather band, AM and FM channels, time, programming
information and alert/status description. The LCD tilts to provide optimal visibility.
When powered from the AC adapter or 12V DC source, the display is backlit
continuously for low light situations.
Non-Volatile Memory
Radio programming is stored in non-volatile memory and will not lose settings, even
when AC and battery power is removed.
Remote Alert
This feature can be used to control external handicapped accessible devices such as
strobe lights, pillow vibration modules and external sirens.
Alert Audio Output
Allows connection of the siren and audio signal to a Public Address system, amplifier
and un-amplified external speaker. The volume contol knob controls the audio output.
External Antenna (F connector)
Allows connection to an optional external antenna (not included) to improve reception
in fringe or low reception areas such as a shelter.
Rear Power Jack
Connects to 9V AC wall adapter or 12VDC car accessory plug adapter.
Battery Backup
The unit will operate on five AA rechargeable Ni-Cad, NiMH or standard alkaline
batteries. A switch located in the battery compartment is provided to select the type of
battery used. Alkaline batteries will provide up to 24 hrs of operation while
rechargeable NiCad and NiMH batteries will provide up to 12 hours. See battery
installation section (page 10) for more information.
NIST Auto-set Atomic Clock
This radio monitors a time signal broadcast by the atomic clock at the National
Institute of Standards and Technology. Upon receiving the signal it will automatically
set the clock to the correct time. Reception varies according to time of day and
location. For more information visit the NIST website at
http://www.boulder.nist.gov/timefreq/stations/wwvb.htm
The main features of the WX-268 Public Alert Radio include:

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1. IntegratedTelescopic Antenna
2. Remote Alert Jack (3.5 mm)
3. Alert Audio Out Jack (6.2 mm)
4. External Antenna Jack (F Connector)
5. DC Power Jack
6. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)
7. Warning Indicator (red) LED
8. Watch Indicator (orange) LED
9. Advisory Indicator (yellow) LED
10. Power Indicator (green) LED
11. Function Knob
12. ALERT Volume/OFF Switch
13. Volume Knob
14. Speaker
15. Snooze button
16. Sleep button
LOCATION OF CONTROLS
17. PREV Button (Denoted as <)
18. SAVE Button
19. PROGRAM Button
20. NEXT Button (Denoted as >)
21. Radio OFF Button
22. Radio ON Button
23. Radio Band button
24. Alarm 1 & Alarm 2 buttons
25. Battery type switch
LCD Screen
1. Time of Day with AM/PM indicator
2. Alarm Settings - OFF, BUZZ, AM, FM, WB
3. Alert Siren Setting
4. Number of Stored Alerts
5. Scrolling Text
23 451
678910
11
12
13
16 17 18 20
19
15
14
23
21
22
LCD Screen
12
4
5
WX-268
24
25 3

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1. Integrated Telescopic Antenna – Fully extend the antenna and orient it for best reception.
2. Remote Alert (3.5 mm Jack) – Provides contact closure to activate external devices.
3. Alert Audio Out (6.2 mm Jack) – Mono jack allows connection to a Public Address system.
4. External Antenna (F Connector) – F connector allows you to connect to optional external antenna (not
included) for weather band only.
5. DC Power Jack – Connect AC Adapter or 12V DC from car cigarette adapter (not included).
6.LCDDisplay–Displaystimeandalertmessages.Alsousedtodisplaydifferentoptionswhenprogramming.
7 -9 . Indicator Lights - “Warning” (Red), “Watch” (Orange), “Advisory ” (Yellow)
10. Power Indicator (Green) – Steady light indicates the unit has external power. Blinking indicates battery
power.
11.Function (Scroll) Knob – Allowsyoutoscroll “Up” and “Down”throughoptionselectionswhen the radio
is in programming mode. Also use to tune AM and FM band stations.
12. Alert Volume Hi/Low/Off Switch: Setting the switch to the OFF position will mute the alert siren. The
radio will still receive alerts but will not sound the siren.
13. Volume Control – Controls listening volume and alert audio output volume level. This control will not
affect the volume level of the alert siren.
14. Speaker
15. Snooze Button - Silences wake-up alarm for a period of 9 minutes.
16. Sleep Button - A timer that turns off the radio after a set period of time. Set in 15 mintue increments up
to 2 hours.
17. PREV(ious) Button – Use to scroll back through previous menu options while programming.
18. SAVE Button – Allows you to confirm the menu selections made while programming and stores the
selections into the unit’s internal memory.
19.PROGRAM Button – Pressand holdfor3secondstoputthe radiointoprogrammingmode.Press again
to exit menu without saving changes to setup.
20. NEXT Button – Use to scroll forward through menu options while programming.
21.Radio OFF Button – Press to stop the alert siren and revert to standby mode. Also press to mute voice
broadcast.
22. Radio ON Button – Allows you to un-mute the speaker and listen to the voice broadcast.
23. Radio BAND Button - Selects radio band.
24. Alarm 1 and Alarm 2 buttons - Use to set wake up alarm
25.Battery Selection Switch – Select “Alkaline”or “NiCad” accordingto back-upbattery type. Setswitchto
the right for alkaline and to the left for rechargeable. See battery installation instructions on page 10 for
diagram.
Description of controls and functions

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Battery Installation
The WX-268 uses 5 AA batteries for back-up power. It can run on non-rechargeable
alkaline, or rechargeable Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cad) or Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH)
batteries. Use the slide switch located inside the battery compartment (Fig. 1) to select
the battery type. To select “Alkaline” when alkaline batteries are installed, push the switch
to the right. To select “Ni-Cad” when using rechargeable batteries, push the switch to the
left. (See Fig. 1). It is recommended that rechargeable batteries be replaced every three
years.
DO NOT CHARGE ALKALINE BATTERIES!
Always set the battery select switch to “Alkaline” before installing alkaline
batteries. Using the “NiCad” setting with alkaline batteries may cause batteries to
leak and present a a fire hazard.
To install or replace the batteries:
- Turn the unit upside down. Locate
the battery compartment door tab
(Fig. 2), press down on the door tab
and lift the cover up to open
- Insert the batteries into the battery
compartment. Be sure to follow the
polarity markings. (Fig. 3)
- Replace the cover.
NOTES: Rechargeable batteries
must be charged for at least 24 hours
before they are ready. Rechargeable
batteries provide approximately 8-15 hours of operation time. Non-rechargeable alkaline
batteries will provide up to 24 hours of operation time. To maintain maximum backup
time, do not disconnect AC power supply from the unit while in use. Remove the batteries
when the unit is not used for a prolonged period of time.
Fig. 1
Fig. 3
Fig. 2
NiCad Alkaline NiCad Alkaline

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1. Choosing a place for your radio
Your WX-268 is designed for desktop or wall mount installation. Place the unit where it
can receive an emergency alert signal broadcast and where you can hear its alert tone or
see the message indicator lights. The best location to install the WX-268 is:
- Clear of any obstructions.
- Near windows or large openings.
- Near an AC power outlet
- Near to where the user(s) would normally stay, such as a bedroom, living room or
office.
• Adjust LCD flip door for best viewing angle.
• Keep the receiver away from interference sources e.g. motors, computers, TV or
microwave ovens.
The WX-268 has 4 separate antennas.
Weather Band - 21” Telescopic antenna. Fully extend antenna. Adjust by moving.
FM - The FM antenna is in the power cord. Straighten for best reception. To receive FM
signal make sure power cord is connected to the radio.
AM and Auto-set Clock - These antennas are internal ferrite bar antennas. If your radio
is being used on a desk or table top, try rotating it 90 degrees to improve reception. If
your radio is mounted to the wall, try mounting it on a wall perpendicular to the one it
is currently on (e.g. if it is on a north-south wall try an east-west wall).
2. Connecting the Power
USING A STANDARD 120V AC
OUTLET
1. Plug the AC adapter cord into the 9V
AC input jack on the back of the unit.
2. Plug the adapter into the wall outlet.
Note: The internal battery charger will automatically begin to charge the
batteries if the “Rechargeable” setting is selected. Keep the unit plugged
in at all times. The unit will be ready to use in the event of a power failure.
Setting up your Public AlertTM radio
Chapter 1 - Basic Operation
VEHICLE USE (12V DC)
Use an optional 12V DC car adapter (not included). Plug the adapter cord into
the 12V DC input jack on the back of the unit. Plug the other end into your
vehicle’s cigarette lighter or accessory outlet.

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3. Set-up and Language Selection
When the radio is powered up: the LCD screen will illuminate, the four lights located
above it will light up for 3 seconds and it will beep 3 times.
Note: The radio will prompt you to select a language the first time you program it. You will
not have to do so when programming the radio at other times.
1. When powered up, the radio will prompt
you to HOLD PROGRAM TO SETUP
RADIO in English then in Spanish. Press
and hold the PROGRAM key for 3 seconds.
2. The LCD screen will display ENGLISH. Turn the FUNCTION
KNOB clockwise to toggle between English or Spanish language.
Select your language choice and press the NEXT (>) key to save your selection. After
setting the language selection, proceed to Step 2 in the Clock/Calendar menu.
SET MONTH - JAN
SET YEAR - 2000
SET DAY - 01
HOLD PROGRAM TO SETUP RADIO
SET DATE/TIME
Note: To reset the language selection, disconnect power from the unit, including batteries.
Hold the PROGRAM button and connect the wall adapter. Repeat steps 1 and 2 above.
4. Setting the Clock and Calendar
The WX-268 is equipped to receive the signal from the U.S. atomic clock located at the
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Colorado. When powered up,
the radio automatically searches for the time signal and sets itself to the correct time.
However, you must set the clock, select the correct time zone, set the daylight savings
mode and the 12/24 hour clock system manually the first time. Follow the prompts below:
1. When powering up the radio, you will be prompted to HOLD PROGRAM TO SETUP
RADIO. Press and hold the PROGRAM key for 3 seconds.
2. SET DATE/TIME menu will be displayed on the LCD
screen. Press the NEXT (>) key.
3. SET YEAR will be displayed on the screen. Turn the
FUNCTION knob clockwise to select the current year.
Press the NEXT (>) key.
4. SET MONTH will be displayed on the screen. Turn the
FUNCTION knob clockwise to select the desired month.
Press the NEXT (>) key.
5. SET DAY will be displayed on the screen. Turn the
FUNCTION knob clockwise to select the correct day of
the month. Press the NEXT (>) key.
6. TIME ZONE will be displayed on the screen. Turn the
FUNCTION knob clockwise to set the Time Zone as
follows: Eastern - 0500, Central - 0600, Mountain -
0700 & Pacific - 0800. Press the NEXT (>) key.
TIME ZONE - 0500
ENGLISH

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7. DAY SAVING will be displayed on the screen. Turn the
FUNCTION knob clockwise to select either Daylight
Savings ON or OFF. Note: When set to ON, The NIST
clock automatically adjusts for daylight savings time.
When set to OFF, it will stay on standard time. Press
the NEXT (>) key.
8. CLOCK will be displayed on the screen. Turn the
FUNCTION knob clockwise to select between the 12-
hour or 24-hour clock systems. Press the NEXT (>) key.
9. TURN KNOB TO SET TIME will be displayed on the
screen. Turn the FUNCTION knob to scroll to the current
time.
10. Press the SAVE key to save all of the settings for your
clock/calendar and return to normal operation.
5. Selecting the Weather Band Channel
To receive alerts, you must first select the correct weather channel.
NOAA broadcasts on seven channels, in 25KHz increments, between the frequencies
of 162.400MHz and 162.550MHz. To identify the appropriate channel for your area, visit
the NOAA web site at: http://www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr/indexnw.htm
The table on the NOAA website includes the correct weather band channel for your
area, the SAME code and the location of the broadcast tower. Look for the state in which
you live and then search the list for your county. Use the channel listed for your county
when programming the radio.
If you cannot access the NOAA website,
call NOAA at 1-888-NWR-SAME (1-888-697-7263).
You can also select a weather channel by listening to each channel and choosing the
one with the best reception. In most cases this will be the appropriate channel, however,
sometimes broadcast areas overlap. The best reception may not originate from the tower
broadcasting to your area.
THEN PRESS SAVE
TURN KNOB TO SET TIME
CLOCK - 12 HOUR
DAY SAVING - ON

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Selecting the WB channel for your listening area:
1. Press the radio ON button to hear the voice broadcast. Adjust the volume knob as
needed.
2. Press and hold the PROGRAM key for 3 seconds.
3. SET DATE/TIME is displayed on the screen.
4. Turn the FUNCTION knob clockwise until SET WB
CHANNEL is displayed on the screen.
Press the NEXT (>) key to enter the WB Channel menu.
5. Turn the FUNCTION knob clockwise to select the correct
channel for your area, as identified by NOAA. Adjust the
telescopic antenna to ensure clear reception.
6. Press the SAVE key to save the channel and return to normal operation.
1. Setting the Specific Area Message Encoding (S.A.M.E.) location
Both NOAA and EAS use S.A.M.E. technology to identify locations. The WX-268
features a built-in database of over 3,000 county locations in the United States identified
by NOAA. Your Public AlertTM radio is programmed at the factory to receive all the alerts
issued in a given county. This may include alerts that do not affect you. Selecting your
S.A.M.E. location can reduce unnecessary alerts.
To select your S.A.M.E. location, simply select your state, county and county
subdivision at the menu prompts as described below.
To set your SAME location:
1. Press and hold the PROG key until SET DATE/TIME is
displayed on the screen.
2. Turn the FUNCTION knob clockwise to select the SETUP
LOCATIONS menu. Press the NEXT (>) key.
Chapter 2 - Recommended Programming
SET DATE/TIME
SET WB CHANNEL
WB CHANNEL 1
SET DATE/TIME
SETUP LOCATIONS
Set Alert Volume - Make sure the alert siren volume switch, located on the left
hand side of the radio, is set to the volume level (Low/Hi) to your preference. Note: If
the switch is in the OFF position, the radio will not sound an alert tone.
Your radio is now programmed to respond to all alerts broadcast by the NOAA
Weather Radio (NWR) network. To set your S.A.M.E. location and select the source
for EAS alerts, proceed with the programming instructions that follow.

15
PRESS SAVE
3. SET LOCATION 01 will be displayed on the screen.
Press the NEXT (>) key.
4. SELECT STATE will be displayed on the screen.Turn the
FUNCTION knob clockwise until you locate the desired
state. Press the NEXT(>) key.
5. SELECT COUNTY will be displayed on the screen. Turn
the FUNCTION knob until you locate the desired county.
Press the NEXT (>) key.
6. SELECT SUBDIVISION will be displayed on the screen.
Turn the FUNCTION knob to scroll through the
subdivisions within a county. For ex. 1- NorthEast
Note: Setting the subdivision to 0 - ANY will receive all
alerts broadcast in the entire county.
7. Press the NEXT (>) key when you have selected the
subdivision of your county .
8. Press the SAVE key to save your SAME location and
return to normal operation.
NOTE: Because broadcast areas overlap you may want to set more than one S.A.M.E.
location. To set more than one S.A.M.E. location, you must complete the above steps for
each location desired. Repeat steps 1 and 2 above. Upon entering the SETUP
LOCATIONS menu in step 3, turn the FUNCTION knob to select an alternate location,
press the NEXT (>) key and proceed as prompted through step 8.
SELECT SUBDIVISION
TEST SIGNAL FROM NOAA:
NOAA sends out test signals weekly and monthly to verify that your Public Alert radio
is working properly. Your radio is programmed at the factory to block the alert siren
for the test signals. When the test signal is received:
1. The LCD screen will display the text message
“The National Weather Service has issued a required weekly or monthly test for
your county until ####”
2. If not blocked, the radio will beep for 15 sec. The siren will not sound.
3. Weekly and monthly tests are stored in the Alert Queue.
Note: If the WX-268 has not received a test signal or an alert for a period of 10 days, it
will automatically alert you by displaying 10 DAY ALERT SENTRY on the LCD
screen.
SELECT STATE
SELECT COUNTY
SETUP LOCATION 01

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2. Selecting the Source for Emergency Alert System (EAS) Alerts
In 1994, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) replaced the Emergency
Broadcast System with EAS. EAS provides not only the President, but national, state and
local authorities with the ability to give emergency information to the general public via
broadcast stations, cable and wireless cable systems. Broadcasters and cable operators
can send warning messages almost immediately to their audiences. To identify the EAS
stations in your area visit the EAS web site at http://www.fcc.gov/eb/eas/plans.html
Emergency messages broadcast by EAS are received on commercial AM and FM
band stations. The WX-268 responds to EAS alerts by continuously monitoring the EAS
station of your choice on either the AM or FM band. To program the radio to
automatically respond to EAS alerts, you must choose an alerting source.
To Select an EAS source:
1. Press and hold the PROGRAM button for 3 seconds.
2. SET TIME/DATE will appear on the screen.
3. Turn the FUNCTION knob clockwise until the SELECT
SOURCE menu appears. Press the NEXT (>) button.
4. WB will appear on the display.
5. Turn the FUNCTION knob to select your alert sources
6. Press SAVE to save your setting.
Note: Selecting WB as your source activates both AM and FM stations for casual
listening, but de-activates the radio’s automatic response to EAS alerts.
SELECT SOURCE
WB
SET DATE/TIME
To tune your radio to the AM or FM station of your choice see Setting the AM/FM
Radio Channel on page 17.
Source Alerts to Casual listening
WB NOAA only WB, AM & FM
WB/AM NOAA & EAS AM WB & AM only (will not receive FM)
WB/FM NOAA & EAS FM WB and FM only (will not receive AM)

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Set the Alarm Clock, Sleep and Snooze timers
The WX-268 has two wakeup alarms as well as a sleep timer and a snooze button to
provide maximum control over your alarm clock.To set the either Alarm 1 or Alarm 2 :
1. Press and hold the Alarm button of your choice.
2. Turn the FUNCTION knob to set the alarm time.
3. Continue to hold the Alarm button.
4. Press the NEXT (>) button to cycle through the five
options; OFF, Buzz (Buzzer), AM, FM and WB (Weather
Band). The selection appears in the top left section of the
LCD screen under the appropriate Alarm heading as
shown at right. If you set the alarm type to OFF, the alarm will not sound.
Audio Level of Buzzer - The alarm volume will begin low and then gradually increase
over the first 15 seconds.
Alarm Duration – The unit will alarm for 59 minutes unless stopped by the user by
pressing SNOOZE or OFF.
Using the Snooze Button: - Press the SNOOZE button to silence the wake-up alarm for
9 minutes
Using the Sleep Button:
The SLEEP button turns the radio on for a set period of time. Repeatedly pressing the SLEEP
button sets the sleep timer in 15 minute increments, starting at a minimum of 15 minutes to
a maximum of 2 hours. The radio will turn off after the sleep timer expires. To de-activate
the sleep timer once it has begun, press either the SNOOZE or OFF buttons.
Setting the AM /FM channel
1. To select an AM or FM station, press the Radio On button.
2. Press the BAND button to select the desired radio band. The selected band and station
setting appears on the LCD screen. Note: Only the AM or FM band selected as the
EAS alert source will be available.
3. Use the FUNCTION knob to select the desired frequency. Rotate the knob clockwise to
increase the frequency. Rotate the knob counterclockwise to decrease the frequency.
4. Press the RADIO OFF button to turn the radio off.
After programming your WX-268, you are ready to use it . Place the radio where it gets
the best reception. To listen to the weather channel press the Radio ON button. To Turn
off the weather channel press the Radio OFF button. To turn the siren or voice off when
an alert is received, press the OFF button.
Alarm 1

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Auto-set Atomic (NIST) Clock
The WX-268 continuously monitors the broadcast of the atomic clock signal on
WWVB from the NIST laboratories in Colorado. NIST continuously broadcasts the time
signal on WWVB (60 KHz) which can be received anywhere in the continental United
States where long range AM radio reception is possible.
Due to the nature of the earth’s atmosphere, your location and seasonal weather
conditions, daytime reception can be limited. The radio will search for the NIST signal
every night when reception is optimal. Upon receiving the signal the clock will
automatically be adjusted to the correct time. In addition, the clock will automatically
make adjustments for daylight savings time unless you select OFF in the DAY SAVING
time menu when programming the radio. See page 12,
SETTING THE CLOCK/CALENDAR.
An icon indicating the status of the NIST clock
appears directly to the right of the time display on the
LCD screen, as shown at right. The status of the NIST
clock is indicated by the icon as follows:
Steady - NIST signal received and time set in past 24 hrs.
Blinking - Receiving NIST signal and resetting time.
No icon - The unit has not received the NIST signal or set the clock in the past 24 hrs.
NIST icon
Note: The NIST antenna is located inside the radio. If your radio is being used on a desk
or table top, try rotating it 90 degrees to improve reception. If your is mounted to the wall,
try mounting it on a wall perpendicular to the one it is currently on (e.g. if it is on a north-
south wall try an east-west wall).

19
2. Event Blocking
To reduce unwanted alerts, such as weekly tests, the WX-268 features the ability to block specific
alerts. The WX-268 is programmed at the factory with some events blocked. See the alert list on
page 23 for more information. To set event blocking options :
1. Press and hold the PROG key for 3 seconds. SET DATE/TIME
will be displayed on the screen.
2. Turn the FUNCTION knob until SETUP BLOCKING is displayed
on the screen. Press the NEXT ( “>”) key.
3. A 3-letter code followed by either the words “BLOCKED” or
“NOT BLOCKED”. will appear.
For example: ADR-BLOCKED
The full text name of the message will scroll across the screen.
For example: ...Administrative Message..
4. Turn the FUNCTION knob to select the event of your choice. Press the NEXT ( “>”) key.
5. Use the FUNCTION knob to select either BLOCKED and NOT BLOCKED.
6. Press the SAVE button to save your blocking options. Repeat steps 4 - 6 above to block other
alerts. Press the PROGRAM key to return to the main menu.
SET DATE/TIME
SETUP BLOCKING
ADR - BLOCKED
Note: Blocking an event disarms the siren and remote output only. The LED light
indicators and text message will still appear when the event is received.
1. Selecting Between Alerting Options
The WX-268 offers four different alerting options for you to select from. Each choice will
make the WX-268 respond differently when an alert is received. Your radio is set at the
factory to Option 1 - Voice/Message. The four alert options are:
1. VOICE/MESSAGE: Sound the alert siren for 5 seconds then switch to the voice
broadcast for the duration of the message. (About 60 sec. to 3 minutes.)
2. SIREN/MESSAGE: Sound the alert siren for the duration of the message. (About 60
sec. to 3 minutes)
3. VOICE/EVENT: Sound the alert siren for 15 seconds and then switch to the voice
broadcast for the duration of the alert. (15 min to 6 hrs.)
4. SIREN/EVENT: Sound the alert siren for the duration of the alert. (15 min to 6 hrs.)
To select an alert mode:
1. Press and hold the PROG key until SET DATE/TIME is
displayed on the screen.
2. Turn the FUNCTION knob until ALERT OPTIONS is displayed
on the screen. Press the NEXT (>) key .
3. Turn the FUNCTION KNOB to select the alert type.
4. Press the SAVE key to save your selection.
Chapter 3 - Advanced Programming Options
SET DATE/TIME
ALERT OPTIONS

20
PROGRAM (hold for 3 seconds)
SET
DATE/TIME
Set Year
Set Month
Set Day
Time Zone
Day Saving
12/24 Hr. Clock
Set Time
SET WB
CHANNEL
WB Channel 1
WB Channel 2
WB Channel 3
WB Channel 4
WB Channel 5
WB Channel 6
WB Channel 7
SETUP
LOCATIONS
Set Location 01
Set Location 02
up to
Set Location 20
SETUP
BLOCKING
ADR - Blocked
AVA - Not Blocked
ALERT
OPTIONS
Voice/Message
Siren/Message
Voice/Event
Siren Event
SELECT
SOURCE
WB
WB - FM
WB - AM
Language Selection - English/Spanish (first time only)
WX-268 Menu Tree
Turn FUNCTION Knob to advance between menus
ÖÖÖÖÖ
Press NEXT (>) to advance within menus.
Press PREV (>) to retreat within menus.
Use FUNCTION Knob to make selections as needed.
Press PROGRAM at any time to exit wiothout saving
Press SAVE to save settings