Sony ICF-C503 Radio User Manual

The Sony ICF-C503 is a compact AM/FM digital clock radio featuring a large, easy-to-read LCD display with adjustable dimmer, dual alarm functions with weekday/weekend settings, a built-in buzzer, a sleep timer, and a snooze function. It includes a 3.5mm headphone jack for private listening and is powered by AC adapter (included) with battery backup for alarm memory. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main Unit with LCD Display, Built-in Speaker, AC Power Adapter, Telescopic FM Antenna, AM Loop Antenna, Headphone Jack, and Control Buttons.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on a stable, flat surface away from heat sources and moisture.

1. Connect Power: Plug the AC adapter into the DC IN jack on the back of the radio, then plug the adapter into a standard 120V AC wall outlet.
2. Extend Antennas: Fully extend the telescopic FM antenna. For AM, rotate the entire unit to find the best reception position.
3. Insert Backup Battery (Optional): Open the battery compartment on the bottom and insert one CR2032 lithium battery (not included) to maintain time and alarm settings during a power outage.
4. Positioning: Place the radio at least 1 meter away from other electronic devices to avoid interference.

WARNING! Use only the supplied AC adapter. Do not place near water or in humid environments.

First-Time Setup

Plug in the unit; the display will flash. Follow these steps to set up.

1. Set the Time: Press and hold the TIME SET button. Use the HOUR and MINUTE buttons to set the correct time. Press TIME SET again to confirm.
2. Tune Radio Stations: Press the BAND button to select AM or FM. Use the TUNING buttons to find a station. For FM, ensure the telescopic antenna is fully extended.
3. Set Alarm 1 & 2: Press and hold ALARM 1 or ALARM 2 button. Use HOUR/MINUTE to set the alarm time. Press ALARM ON/OFF to activate.
4. Adjust Display Brightness: Press the DIMMER button to cycle between High and Low brightness settings.

CAUTION! Ensure the unit is on a stable surface. Do not block ventilation openings.

Specifications

• Model: Sony ICF-C503.
• Bands: AM (530-1710 kHz), FM (87.5-108 MHz).
• Power Supply: AC 120V, 60Hz (via adapter). DC 3V (CR2032 backup battery).
• Alarm: Dual independent alarms (Radio or Buzzer). Weekday/Weekend repeat options.
• Sleep Timer: 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90 minutes.
• Snooze: 9 minutes.
• Display: LCD with dimmer control.
• Audio Output: Built-in speaker, 3.5mm headphone jack.
• Dimensions (Approx.): 150mm (W) x 95mm (H) x 85mm (D).
• Weight: Approx. 0.5 kg (without batteries).

Controls and Settings

Front Panel Controls: POWER, BAND (AM/FM), TUNING (+/-), VOLUME, ALARM 1, ALARM 2, ALARM ON/OFF, TIME SET, HOUR, MINUTE, DIMMER, SNOOZE/SLEEP.

Top Panel: Telescopic FM Antenna.

Time Setting: Use TIME SET, HOUR, MINUTE. Alarm Setting: Press and hold ALARM 1/2, set time with HOUR/MINUTE, select source (RADIO/BUZZER) with ALARM ON/OFF. Sleep Timer: Press SLEEP repeatedly to select duration (15-90 mins); display shows countdown. Snooze: Press SNOOZE during alarm to pause for 9 minutes. Display: DIMMER toggles brightness. Radio: BAND selects AM/FM; TUNING scans frequencies; VOLUME adjusts sound level.

Connecting Devices

Headphones: Plug standard 3.5mm stereo headphones into the jack on the side for private listening. External Antenna (Optional): For weak FM signals, connect an external FM antenna to the telescopic antenna via an adapter (not included).

1. Ensure the radio is powered on.
2. Insert headphone plug fully into the jack. The internal speaker will mute automatically.
3. Adjust volume to a comfortable level using the VOLUME control.

Tip: Unplug headphones to resume sound through the built-in speaker.

Using the Alarm Functions

Supports two independent alarms with radio or buzzer wake-up.

1. Setting an Alarm: Press and hold ALARM 1 or ALARM 2. The respective alarm icon will flash. Use HOUR and MINUTE to set the time. Press ALARM ON/OFF to choose wake-up source (Radio or Buzzer). The alarm icon will stay lit when activated.
2. Weekday/Weekend Mode: By default, alarms are set for all days. To change, while setting the alarm time, press the BAND button to cycle through options: WEEKDAY (Mon-Fri), WEEKEND (Sat-Sun), or DAILY.
3. When Alarm Sounds: Radio or buzzer will sound at set volume. Press SNOOZE for 9 more minutes of sleep, or press ALARM ON/OFF to stop the alarm.
4. Deactivating an Alarm: Press ALARM ON/OFF so the corresponding alarm icon turns off on the display.

WARNING! Test alarm volume and source after setup. Ensure backup battery is installed if alarm must function during a power outage.

Accessibility Features

Large, High-Contrast Display: Easy-to-read numbers with adjustable dimmer. Tactile Buttons: Clearly raised and distinct buttons for easy operation by touch. Audible Feedback: Key presses for time/alarm setting provide confirmation beeps (can be turned off in some modes).

Care & Cleaning

Unplug the AC adapter before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the cabinet and display. For stubborn dirt, dampen the cloth slightly with water. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or sprays.

CAUTION! Never allow liquid to enter the unit through vents or controls. Keep the telescopic antenna dry and gently wipe if dirty.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Sony Corporation. Sony and the Sony logo are trademarks of Sony Group Corporation. For customer support, visit www.sony.com/electronics/support or contact Sony Customer Service at 1-800-222-7669.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug the AC adapter and remove the backup battery for 1 minute to reset all settings to factory default.

Service: 1-800-222-7669; www.sony.com/electronics/support