Automotive / Car Audio
User Manual for Caliber RCD 238DAB-BT Car Radio
Quick guide and user manual for the Caliber RCD 238DAB-BT car radio. Includes connection diagrams, DAB antenna installation, technical specifications, and button operation instructions.
Quick answers from the manual
Quick answer
- The Caliber RCD 238DAB-BT is a car radio supporting FM, DAB+, CD, USB, SD, and Bluetooth. Installation requires a 12V DC negative ground connection. p. 2, 3
Key actions
- Install DAB antenna p. 3
- Switch to DAB mode p. 3
First start
- Upon first energizing in DAB mode, the system automatically searches and stores stations. p. 3
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Problems and fixes
Disc error
Check disc orientation or press RESET button.
p. 4, 5, 6, 7Maintenance and reset
- If 'Disc error' persists, press the RESET button with a pointed object. p. 4, 5, 6, 7
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Value | Meaning | Pages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power Supply | 12V DC | Negative ground | p. 2 |
| Fuse | 10A | Required fuse rating | p. 2 |
Where to find it in the PDF
- Connection Diagram p. 2
- DAB Antenna Installation p. 3
Table of contents
Manual images
Click an image to enlargeQuick guide from the manual
The Caliber RCD 238DAB-BT is a car radio system supporting FM, DAB+, CD, USB, SD, and Bluetooth connectivity. This guide provides essential information for installation, setup, and operation.
Safety Precautions
- Power Supply: Use only in vehicles with a 12V DC negative ground system.
- Driving Safety: Do not operate functions that distract from driving. Perform complex operations only when the vehicle is stopped.
- Volume: Keep volume at a level where outside noises (sirens, warning signals) can still be heard.
- Installation: Do not block vents or radiator panels. Ensure the installation location is free from direct sun, heat, high humidity, water, dust, and excessive vibrations.
- Discs: Use only round discs. Do not insert irregular shaped discs or multiple discs at once.
Connection Diagram
The unit features an antenna input (DIN), DAB antenna input, stereo RCA output, sub output, and a 3.5mm microphone jack. Ensure the ISO connector is wired correctly according to the diagram provided in the manual (e.g., A4: Battery 12V+, A7: ACC+ Ignition, A8: Ground).
DAB Antenna Installation
- Remove the cover of the A-post.
- Place the antenna on the windshield near the 'A post'.
- Stick the transparent part of the antenna on the windshield and attach the black part to the metal frame.
- The active DAB+ antenna is powered through the core of the antenna wire (+5V); no separate power source is required.
DAB Settings
- Switching to DAB: Press the [MODE] button to switch to DAB mode.
- Station Search: Upon first use, the system automatically searches and stores stations. To re-scan, press the [SCAN] button.
- Playback: After a full search, the 18 strongest stations are stored in three DAB bands (DAB1, DAB2, DAB3). Use the [BND] button to switch bands and preset buttons (16-21) to recall stations.
Technical Specifications
- Power Supply: 12V DC, negative ground.
- Power Output: 75W x 4 channels (Max), 25W x 4 channels (RMS @ 10% T.H.D.).
- Speaker Impedance: 4-8 ohm.
- Fuse: 10A.
- Dimensions: 178 x 178 x 51mm.
- Radio: FM (87.5-108.0 MHz), DAB+ (174-240 MHz).
- Bluetooth: A2DP and AVRCP profiles, up to 10 meters range.
Manufacturer information
Caliber Europe
Practical help
Common problems
Disc error
Ensure the disc is inserted correctly with the label side up. If the error persists, press the RESET button with a pointed object.
Sound wavering during disc playback
This is likely due to condensation. Remove the disc and wait about an hour for the moisture to evaporate.
Before use
- Verify the vehicle has a 12V DC negative ground system.
- Ensure the fuse rating is 10A.
- Check that the antenna is connected correctly.
- Ensure the ambient temperature is between 0°C and +45°C before turning on the unit.
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Specs in practice
- Power Output
- 75W x 4 channels (Max), 25W x 4 channels (RMS).
- Speaker Impedance
- Compatible with 4-8 ohm speakers.
- DAB+ Frequency
- 174-240 MHz range.
Images and diagrams
- The connection diagram illustrates the antenna input, RCA outputs, and ISO connector pin assignments.
- The antenna installation guide shows the removal of the A-post cover and correct placement on the windshield.
Model compatibility
- Compatible with MP3/WAV audio files via USB/SD.
- Supports A2DP and AVRCP Bluetooth profiles.
- DAB+ antenna requires active 5V phantom power supply (provided by the unit).
Manual page author
David Miller
Documentation analyst