The Radio Shack DX-390 (Catalog No. 20-214) is a digital synthesized multiband portable receiver, often recognized as a rebadged Sangean ATS-818. It offers continuous shortwave coverage and advanced tuning features for serious hobbyists. Core Specifications & Band Coverage
The receiver covers a wide range of frequencies across several bands: Shortwave (SW): 1.711 – 29.999 MHz (continuous). Longwave (LW): 150 – 519 kHz. Medium Wave (AM): 520 – 1710 kHz.
Note: A 9kHz/10kHz switch inside the battery compartment allows you to adjust tuning increments for different global regions (e.g., 10kHz for the U.S.).
FM: 87.5 – 108 MHz (supports stereo via headphone output). Operation & Tuning Methods
You can navigate frequencies using several manual and automated methods:
Direct-Access Tuning: Enter a specific frequency directly using the numeric keypad.
Rotary Tuning: Use the side-mounted dial for traditional searching. A Fast/Slow/Lock switch adjusts the dial's sensitivity or disables it to prevent accidental changes.
Scan Tuning: Automatically searches for the next strongest available signal.
Memory Tuning: Store up to 45 frequencies (9 each for AM/LW/FM and 18 for SW) for quick recall. Special Features for Advanced Listening
SSB & BFO: Includes a dedicated BFO (Beat Frequency Oscillator) switch and variable control knob for receiving Single Sideband (SSB) and CW (Morse code) transmissions.
Dual Bandwidth: Features an AM Wide/Narrow switch to help filter out interference on crowded bands.
RF Gain Control: A variable knob to adjust signal sensitivity, useful for preventing overload from very strong local stations.
Dual Time Clock: Allows you to set a local time and a secondary time (such as UTC) with alarm and sleep timer functions. Power Requirements
The DX-390 requires two sets of batteries for full functionality: Main Power: 4 "D" cell batteries. Memory Backup/Clock: 3 "AA" cell batteries.
AC/DC Adapter: Can be powered via a 6V DC (400mA) adapter with a center-pin negative tip. Plugging in an adapter automatically disconnects the internal D batteries. Reference Links & Manuals
Quick Start Guide: Basic steps include pressing POWER, selecting a BAND, and using MANUAL/AUTO tuning.
Service & User Manuals: Detailed PDF versions are often hosted on enthusiast sites like ICanWorkThisThing or Archive.org.
Radio Shack/Realistic DX-390/Sangean ATS-818 - radiojayallen radio shack dx-390 owners manual
Weight: 3.64 lbs without batteries. Dual Conversion. Band Coverage: SW 1.6 – 30 MHz Continuous With 7 Meter Bands. LW 150-519 kHz. radiojayallen ICanWorkThisThing.com
Finding a physical copy is rare, but several digital archives provide both the User (Owner's) Manual and the Service Manual:
ICanWorkThisThing.com: Provides a direct HTML/text version of the owner's manual covering all basic features and setup.
ManualsLib: Hosts a 62-page service manual that includes detailed schematic diagrams and internal alignment instructions.
Archive.org: Offers combined service manuals for the DX-390 and its Sangean counterpart.
QSL.net: Features a simplified web-based guide for operations like clock setting and memory storage. Quick Operation Guide
The manual details several key procedures for getting the most out of this 1990s-era receiver: dx390.htm - QSL.net
This post provides a quick guide and resource link for the Radio Shack DX-390 (Sangean ATS-806) Owner's Manual. The Collector’s Guide: Radio Shack DX-390 (Realistic)
If you’ve recently picked up the Radio Shack DX-390—also known by its twin, the Sangean ATS-806—you have one of the most respected portable shortwave receivers of the early '90s.
Whether you’re hunting for a digital copy or just need the essential "cheat sheet" to get started, here is everything you need to know. Quick Start & Key Functions
The Power Source: Requires 6 "C" cell batteries for main operation and 2 "AA" batteries for the clock/memory backup. Always use fresh AA batteries to avoid losing your saved presets.
Direct Frequency Entry: To tune quickly, press the [FREQ] button, enter the frequency (e.g., 6.075 for Deutsche Welle), and press [ENTER].
SSB (Single Sideband): Essential for listening to amateur radio (hams). Use the BFO (Beat Frequency Oscillator) thumbwheel on the side to clarify the audio once you are on the correct frequency.
Memory Banks: The DX-390 allows you to store up to 18 stations (9 on AM/LW/SW and 9 on FM). Essential Manual Links
Because Radio Shack stores are a thing of the past, digital archives are the best place to find the full technical schematics and user instructions:
The Free User Manual (PDF): A complete scan of the original booklet including the "Guide to Shortwave Listening."
The Service Manual: For those looking to perform alignments or repairs on the internal circuitry. Pro Tip for New Owners The Radio Shack DX-390 (Catalog No
The DX-390 is famous for its Dual Conversion circuitry, which helps eliminate "images" or ghost stations. If you find the shortwave bands are quiet, ensure the RF GAIN slider on the left side is pushed all the way up! Are you planning on using the internal whip antenna, or
Radio Shack Realistic DX-390 (Catalog No. 20-214) is a PLL synthesized world-band receiver, also known as a rebadged Sangean ATS-818
. Below is a draft guide based on original operating instructions. radiojayallen 1. Power and Battery Setup
The radio requires two sets of batteries to function correctly: Main Power: 4 "D" cell batteries for standard operation. Memory/Clock Backup:
batteries to maintain saved frequencies and the dual-time clock. External Power: Can be powered via a 6V DC adapter (barrel plug). 2. Tuning Methods
The DX-390 offers several ways to find stations across FM, MW (AM), LW, and SW bands: radiojayallen Direct-Access: , enter the frequency using the numeric keypad, and press Manual Tuning: Up/Down arrow keys Rotary Tuning dial on the right side. Rotary Dial Modes: A side switch allows you to toggle the dial between (to prevent accidental changes). Scan Tuning:
Use the seek buttons to automatically find the next available station. I Can Work This Thing 3. Storing Stations in Memory The receiver can store up to 45 presets (18 for SW, 9 each for FM, MW, and LW): Tune to the desired frequency. (Memory) button.
While the "M" is flashing, enter a memory location code (1-9 or 01-09 for SW). The display will confirm the saved location. 4. Advanced Reception Features SSB/CW Reception: For amateur radio or utility signals, turn on the BFO switch and use the BFO Fine Tuning knob to clarify the signal. Bandwidth Filter: WIDE/NARROW
switch to reduce interference from adjacent stations on AM and SW. Fully extend the 50-inch telescoping whip
Uses an internal ferrite bar; rotate the entire radio for best signal. external antenna jack is available for improved SW reception. 5. Clock and Alarm Functions Dual Time: You can set a primary local time and a secondary UTC/World time switch to either to wake up at a specific time. Sleep Timer:
button to set an auto-off timer for 15, 30, 60, or 90 minutes. 6. Troubleshooting & Care dx390.htm - QSL.net
Introduction
The RadioShack DX-390 is a compact, portable shortwave radio receiver designed to receive a wide range of radio frequencies, from 150 kHz to 30 MHz. It's perfect for listening to international broadcasts, amateur radio transmissions, and other shortwave signals.
Key Features
Operating the DX-390
Advanced Features
Tips and Tricks
Troubleshooting
Conclusion
The RadioShack DX-390 is a versatile and user-friendly shortwave radio receiver that's perfect for hobbyists and enthusiasts. With its compact design, digital display, and advanced features, it's an excellent choice for anyone interested in exploring the world of shortwave radio.
Specifications
By following the instructions and tips outlined in this piece, you'll be well on your way to enjoying the many features and capabilities of the RadioShack DX-390. Happy listening!
You can find the Radio Shack DX-390 (Cat. No. 20-214) owner’s manual and technical documentation through the following sources: Online Viewing & PDF Downloads
Complete Owner's Manual: Read a full digitized version of the DX-390 Owner's Manual at ICanWorkThisThing.com.
Service Manual & Schematics: Access a combined service manual for the Sangean ATS-818 and Radio Shack DX-390 on the Internet Archive .
Troubleshooting Guide: A specific Troubleshooting Document is available for common issues like power and reception.
Quick Reference: QSL.net provides a text-based guide covering preparation, clock operation, and tuning hints. Physical Copies
If you prefer a printed booklet, sellers on eBay often carry high-quality printed reproductions of the original operating manual. Technical Tips
MW Tuning Steps: The switch to change between 9kHz and 10kHz increments (often needed for US vs. European AM bands) is located inside the battery compartment .
SSB/CW: This model supports Single Sideband (SSB) and Continuous Wave (Morse code) transmissions, which can be fine-tuned using the Fine Tune control. Sangean ATS-818 & Radio Shack DX-390 Service Manual
Sangean ATS-818 & Radio Shack DX-390 Service Manual. by: Sangean. Publication date: 1992; Topics: Sangean, Radio Shack, Realistic, Internet Archive ICanWorkThisThing.com
The RadioShack DX-390 (also known as the Sangean ATS-818 or similar models like the DX-392) is a portable, PLL-synthesized world band receiver. Based on the original owner’s manual, its key features include:
| Control | Function | |---------|----------| | POWER/VOLUME | Rotate right to power on and adjust volume | | TUNING (large knob) | Main tuning (variable capacitor / PLL) | | BAND | Select: MW (AM), LW, SW (1–9), FM | | STEP | Tuning step: 1 kHz (AM/SW) or 0.05/0.1 MHz (FM) | | MEMORY | Store current frequency into a preset | | PAGE/CH▼/▲ | Navigate memory pages (0–9) and channels (0–9) | | SCAN | Auto-scan upward for active stations | | LIGHT | Backlight (momentary) | | BEEP ON/OFF | Disables key beep (rear slider) | | LOCAL/DX | Attenuator for strong AM/SW signals |
Manual solution (Page 15 - Troubleshooting chart): This indicates a failing capacitor in the RF front end, OR you have a cell phone charger plugged into the DC jack. The manual explicitly states: "Use only an unregulated 6V, 300mA adapter. Switch-mode power supplies cause heterodyne whistles." Operating the DX-390
| Band | Frequency range (MHz) | Typical use | |------|----------------------|--------------| | SW1 | 1.6 – 4.0 | 120m, 90m, 75m | | SW2 | 4.0 – 7.5 | 60m, 49m | | SW3 | 7.5 – 12.0 | 41m, 31m (best daytime) | | SW4 | 12.0 – 16.0 | 25m, 22m | | SW5 | 16.0 – 19.0 | 19m, 16m | | SW6 | 19.0 – 22.0 | 15m, 13m | | SW7 | 22.0 – 26.1 | 11m (CB/ham) | | SW8 | 2.3 – 7.5 | (duplicate of lower bands) | | SW9 | 7.5 – 22.0 | (duplicate) |
Tip: SW8/9 are overlaps – ignore them. Use SW1–7.