Sony Walkman SRF-M97 Radio User Manual

The Sony Walkman SRF-M97 is a portable AM/FM stereo radio featuring a built-in speaker, stereo headphones, digital tuning with preset stations, auto-scan, bass boost sound enhancement, LCD display with backlight, lock switch to prevent accidental operation, and is powered by two AA batteries. 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 Headphones 7. Using the Radio 8. Battery Information 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Portable radio unit, Stereo Headphones, LCD Display, Control Buttons, Built-in Speaker, Headphone Jack, Battery Compartment.

FeatureDescription
Digital TuningPrecise AM/FM station selection with auto-scan
Preset StationsMemory for storing favorite stations (e.g., 10 FM, 5 AM)
Bass BoostEnhances low-frequency sound for richer audio
LCD DisplayShows frequency, preset number, battery status, and time
BacklightIlluminates display for low-light conditions
Built-in SpeakerFor listening without headphones
Headphone JackStandard 3.5mm jack for private listening
Lock SwitchPrevents accidental button presses during transport
Auto Power OffConserves battery life when left idle
Telescopic AntennaExtendable for improved FM reception

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure all parts are present.

  1. Insert Batteries: Open battery compartment, insert two AA batteries observing correct polarity.
  2. Extend Antenna: Pull out the telescopic antenna fully for best FM reception.
  3. Connect Headphones: Plug stereo headphones into the headphone jack if desired.

WARNING! Do not mix old and new batteries or different battery types. Remove batteries if not using for extended periods.

First-Time Setup

Power on the radio; follow initial setup steps.

  1. Set Time: Press and hold CLOCK button, use TUNING buttons to set correct time.
  2. Auto-Scan for Stations: Press BAND to select FM or AM, then press and hold SCAN to automatically search and store stations.
  3. Save Presets: Tune to desired station, press and hold a numbered button (1-10) to save it.
  4. Adjust Volume: Use VOLUME buttons to set comfortable listening level.

CAUTION! Keep away from strong magnetic fields which may affect performance.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access functions via front panel buttons. Main Controls: POWER, VOLUME +/- , BAND (FM/AM), TUNING +/- , SCAN, PRESET 1-10, BASS BOOST, CLOCK, LOCK.

Display Icons: FM/AM indicator, Preset number, Battery level, Clock, Tuning scale.

Tuning: Manual with TUNING buttons or auto with SCAN. Sound: BASS BOOST on/off. Time: Set and display clock. Lock: Slide LOCK switch to prevent accidental operation.

Connecting Headphones

Use standard 3.5mm stereo headphones.

  1. Ensure radio is powered off or volume is low.
  2. Insert headphone plug fully into the headphone jack.
  3. Power on and adjust volume to a safe level.

Tip: When headphones are connected, the built-in speaker is automatically disabled.

Using the Radio

Supports FM stereo and AM monaural reception.

  1. Power On: Slide POWER switch to ON.
  2. Select Band: Press BAND to toggle between FM and AM.
  3. Tune Station: Use TUNING buttons manually or press SCAN to auto-search.
  4. Recall Preset: Press corresponding PRESET button (1-10).
  5. Adjust Sound: Press BASS BOOST to enhance low frequencies.
  6. Use Speaker/Headphones: Audio outputs automatically based on connection.
  7. Auto Power Off: Radio turns off after approx. 20 minutes of no operation (if enabled).

WARNING! Listen at moderate volumes, especially with headphones, to prevent hearing damage.

Battery Information

Use two AA alkaline batteries. Battery icon on display indicates status.

Low Battery: Display icon blinks; replace batteries soon.

To Replace: Power off, open compartment, remove old batteries, insert new ones with correct polarity (+/-).

Care & Cleaning

Remove batteries before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth to wipe exterior. Do not use chemicals or abrasive materials.

CAUTION! Keep dry; avoid exposure to rain or moisture. Do not disassemble the unit.

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. For support, visit www.sony.com/electronics/support or contact Sony customer service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerDead batteries, incorrect insertionReplace batteries; ensure correct polarity.
Poor FM receptionAntenna not extended, locationFully extend antenna; move to a location with better signal.
No sound from speakerHeadphones plugged in, volume lowUnplug headphones; increase volume.
Buttons not respondingLock switch engagedSlide LOCK switch to the off position.
Preset stations lostBatteries removed for long timeRe-scan and save stations; memory resets when batteries are dead/removed.
Distorted soundWeak batteries, bass boost on in poor signalReplace batteries; turn off BASS BOOST.

Reset: Remove batteries for 1 minute to reset microcomputer.

Service: Contact authorized Sony service center. Do not attempt user repair.

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