Sony ICF-P36 Radio User Manual

The Sony ICF-P36 is a compact, portable AM/FM radio featuring a built-in speaker, telescopic antenna, 3.5mm headphone jack for private listening, and a digital tuner with preset memory. Powered by two AA batteries or an optional AC adapter, it includes a sleep timer, alarm function, and a backlit LCD display for easy operation in low light. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Using the Alarm & Sleep Timer 8. Accessibility Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Digital AM/FM tuner, LCD display with backlight, Built-in speaker, Telescopic antenna, Headphone jack, Battery compartment, DC IN jack.

FeatureDescription
Telescopic antennaFor improved FM reception; extend fully for best results
Headphone jack (3.5mm)For private audio listening
DC IN jackFor optional AC adapter (not included)
Battery compartmentHolds two AA batteries
POWER/SOURCETurns radio on/off; switches between AM/FM
TUNING (+/-)Manual tuning up/down
PRESET (1-5)Store and recall up to 5 stations per band
VOLUME (+/-)Adjusts sound level
ALARM/SLEEPSets alarm and sleep timer functions
DISPLAY/LIGHTToggles backlight on/off

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, flat surface.

  1. Insert batteries: Open battery compartment, insert two AA batteries observing correct polarity (+/-).
  2. Extend antenna: Fully extend telescopic antenna for FM reception.
  3. Connect optional AC adapter: Plug into DC IN jack and wall outlet (adapter sold separately).
  4. Connect headphones: Plug into 3.5mm jack for private listening.

WARNING! Use only recommended battery type. Do not mix old and new batteries.

First-Time Setup

Power on radio; follow initial setup steps.

  1. Select band: Press POWER/SOURCE to toggle between AM and FM.
  2. Tune stations: Use TUNING (+/-) to find desired station.
  3. Set presets: Tune to station, press and hold a PRESET button (1-5) until display confirms.
  4. Adjust volume: Use VOLUME (+/-) to set comfortable listening level.
  5. Set time: Press and hold ALARM/SLEEP, then use TUNING to set current time.

CAUTION! Keep away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/SOURCE, TUNING (+/-), PRESET (1-5), VOLUME (+/-), ALARM/SLEEP, DISPLAY/LIGHT.

Display Indicators: AM/FM band, preset number, frequency, alarm on/off, sleep timer, backlight.

Tuning: Manual tuning with TUNING buttons; auto-scan not available. Presets: Store 5 stations per band (AM and FM separate). Volume: Adjustable in 15 steps. Time/Alarm: Set via ALARM/SLEEP button sequence. Backlight: Press DISPLAY/LIGHT to illuminate display for 5 seconds.

Connecting Devices

Headphones: Standard 3.5mm plug. AC Adapter: Optional 3V DC (center positive).

  1. Ensure radio is off before connecting devices.
  2. Plug headphones into jack for private listening (disables speaker).
  3. Connect AC adapter to DC IN jack and wall outlet for continuous power.

Tip: Use AC adapter to conserve battery life during extended use.

Using the Alarm & Sleep Timer

Alarm wakes to radio at set time. Sleep timer turns radio off after set duration.

  1. Set current time: Press and hold ALARM/SLEEP, use TUNING to adjust hours/minutes.
  2. Set alarm time: Press ALARM/SLEEP briefly, then use TUNING to set alarm time. Press ALARM/SLEEP again to enable (AL icon shows).
  3. Set sleep timer: During playback, press ALARM/SLEEP repeatedly to cycle sleep durations (OFF, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 min). SL icon shows when active.
  4. Cancel alarm: Press ALARM/SLEEP until AL icon disappears.

WARNING! Alarm will not sound if radio is off or volume is at minimum.

Accessibility Features

Backlight: Press DISPLAY/LIGHT to illuminate display in dark environments. Large, tactile buttons for easy operation. Headphone jack for private listening.

Care & Cleaning

Remove batteries before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth; do not use solvents or water.

CAUTION! Do not immerse in water; keep away from heat sources.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Sony Corporation. For support, visit www.sony.com/electronics/support or contact Sony customer service at 1-800-222-7669.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerDead batteriesReplace with fresh AA batteries; check polarity.
Poor FM receptionAntenna not extendedFully extend telescopic antenna; reposition radio.
No sound from speakerHeadphones plugged inUnplug headphones; check volume level.
Display dim/no backlightBacklight off/low batteriesPress DISPLAY/LIGHT; replace batteries.
Alarm not soundingRadio off/low volumeEnsure radio is on; increase volume; verify alarm is enabled.
Cannot store presetsButton not held long enoughPress and hold PRESET button until display flashes.

Reset: Remove batteries for 1 minute to reset all settings.

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

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