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U N I V E R S A L

Remote

universal
Compatible with todays most popular brands.

T ON RO
L
S

UP TO
C O
M

O N E N T

Consolidates up to 3 remotes Dedicated MENU key for DVD navigation

See back for most popular brands.

Multi-Brand Use

RCU300

remote

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Table of Contents
Product Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Battery Installation and Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Key Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Program for TVDirect Entry Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Program for DVD or VCRDirect Entry Method . . . . . . . .6 Program for Satellite or Cable BoxDirect Entry Method . . .7 Code Search Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Manual Code Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Automatic Code Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Code Retrieval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Sleep Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 On-screen Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Accessing a Menu System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Highlighting and Selecting Menu Items . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Exiting a Menu System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Limited 90-Day Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Indicator light

Component keys. (TV, VCRDVD, DBSCABLE)

CHAN and VOL

keys have dual functions. They act as navigation keys (up, down, left, and right) in menu systems.

BACKLIGHT key Turns backlighting on/off. (select models only)

Dedicated MENU key for DVD disc menus, some TVs and satellite receivers.

Actual model may vary from picture shown

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3 Component Universal Remote

Congratulations on your purchase of the 3 component universal remote. This universal remote controls up to three electronic components and makes juggling remote controls a thing of the past. You can program this RCA brand universal remote to operate most models of most brands of infrared, remote-controlled components manufactured after 1990. (See the enclosed Code List for a complete list of brands.) The 3 component universal remote is easy to use, easy to program and gives you control at the touch of your fingertips.
Note: The 3 component universal remote is already programmed to operate most RCA, GE and PROSCAN branded TVs, VCRs, DVD players and satellite receivers (DBS). Just press the corresponding component keyVCRDVD for a VCR or DVD player; TV for a television; DBSCABLE for a satellite receiver or a cable box.

Battery Installation and Information

Your universal remote requires two AAA Alkaline batteries (batteries may or may not be included, depending on model). To install the batteries: 1. Remove the battery compartment cover. 2. Insert the batteries, matching the batteries to the (+) and () marks inside the battery compartment. 3. Press and push the battery cover back into place.
Note: Reprogramming may be

required after batteries are replaced.

Key Descriptions
Indicator Lightflashes when a valid key is pressed to indicate the remote is working. Status of this light is important when you are programming the remote. Component keys (DBSCABLE, VCRDVD, TV): selects the component you want the remote to operate. For example, after youve programmed the remote to operate your TV, you must press the TV key first to put the remote in TV Mode. While in TV Mode, the CHAN keys change the channel on the TV, the VOL keys adjust the TVs volume, etc. Transport keysREW (Rewind), PLAY, FF (Fast Forward), PAUSE, STOP: operate the same as your original VCR or DVD remote control, although key labels may vary (REVERSE, FORWARD). Backlight Key (select models only)Turns backlighting on/off. Backlighting will remain on for approximately 6 seconds after last keypress to conserve battery life. 3

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Other Keys (listed alphabetically)

0-9 (Number Keys): operate the same as number keys on your original remote and are used to enter component codes when programming the remote control with Direct Entry method. ANTENNA: in TV mode, switches between the signal coming from a satellite receiver or cable box and an off-air antenna. In VCR mode, switches between the signal coming from a VCR and a TV. CHAN (Channel) UP AND DOWN: goes to the next highest or lowest channel number in the component channel list, respectively, except for DVDs. In DVDs the CHAN UP/DOWN goes to the NEXT/PREVIOUS chapter. Additionally, when youre using the remote with On-screen Menus, the CHAN keys act as UP ARROW and DOWN ARROW keys (moving the cursor or highlight up or down). CODE SEARCH: use to program the remote. ENTER: use with Manual or Automatic Code Search method to accept code (See Code Search on page 8). Also, some brands require you to press the ENTER key after you enter a channel number. In some menu systems, you must press ENTER to select a highlighted item. MENU: accesses DVD disc menus when VCRDVD key is programmed to operate a DVD player. Accesses menu systems of some TVs, a few RCA brand VCRs and satellite receivers. (For more information, refer to Using On-screen Menus section on page 10). MUTE: lowers the TVs volume to its minimum level. ONOFF: turns component on and off. Note: Some RCA, GE and PROSCAN models require that you press the component key to turn ON the component and the ONOFF key to turn OFF the component. PREV CH (Previous Channel): switches back to previous channeloperates the same as LAST CHANNEL, GO BACK or RECALL key found on some brands of remote controls. REC (Record): used with VCR to record programming. You must press the REC key twice to start recording. VOL (Volume) UP and DOWN: increases or decreases the TVs volume level. Additionally, when youre using the remote with On-screen Menus, the VOL keys act as RIGHT or LEFT ARROW keys (moving the highlight or cursor right or left).

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Program for TV Direct Entry Method

In order for the 3 component universal remote to control your TV, you must program it with the TV code that matches your TV. These instructions explain the preferred method of programming the remotethe Direct Entry method. 1. Manually turn on the TV. 2. Locate the enclosed TV Code List. Find your brand of TV.
Note: If your brand isnt listed,
CODE INDICATOR LIGHT SEARCH

use one of the Code Search methods to program this remote control (See Code Search on page 8). 3. Press and hold the CODE SEARCH key until the indicator light illuminates. Then release the CODE SEARCH key. 4. Press and release the TV key. The indicator light blinks and then remains lit.

TV

(BLINK)

1 4 7

2 5 8 0

3 6 9

5. Use the number keys to enter the first code listed for your brand. After you enter a valid three-digit code, the indicator light turns off.
Note: If you enter an invalid code,

the LED will flash rapidly for 2 seconds. Start over at step 3.
(OFF) ONOFF

6. Aim the remote at your TV and press the ONOFF key. If your TV turns off, you have found the correct code. 7. Enter the code in the box provided on this page for future reference. 8. If your TV doesnt turn off, repeat steps 3-6 above, entering the next code for your brand. If none of the codes work or your brand is not listed, use one of the Code Search methods to program this remote (See Code Search on page 8). For a description of each key on the remote control, refer to the Key Descriptions section on page 3-4.

TV CODE

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Program for DVD or VCR Direct Entry Method

In order for the 3 component universal remote to control your DVD or VCR, you must program it with the code that matches your component. The VCRDVD key can be programmed to operate either a DVD or a VCR player. These instructions explain the preferred method of programming the remote the Direct Entry method. 1. Manually turn on the VCR or DVD player. 2. Locate the enclosed VCR or DVD Code List. Find your brand in the VCR Codes or DVD Codes section, respectively. CODE INDICATOR SEARCH LIGHT Note: If your brand isnt listed, use one of the Code Search methods to program this remote control (See Code Search on page 8). VCR (BLINK)
DVD

3. Press and hold the CODE SEARCH key until the indicator light illuminates. Then release the CODE SEARCH key.
2 5 8 0 3 6 9

1 4 7

4. Press and release the VCRDVD key. The indicator light blinks and then remains lit. 5. Use the number keys on the remote to enter the first code listed for your brand. After you enter a valid three-digit code, the indicator light turns off.
Note: If you enter an invalid code,

(OFF) ONOFF

the LED will flash rapidly for 2 seconds. Start over at step 3. 6. Aim the remote at the component (VCR or DVD player). Press the ONOFF key. If your VCR or DVD player turns off, you have found the correct code. 7. Enter the code in the box provided on this page for future reference. 8. If your VCR or DVD player doesnt turn off, repeat steps 3-6 above, entering the next code for your brand. If none of the codes work or your brand is not listed, use one of the Code Search methods to program this remote (See Code Search on page 8). For a description of each key on the remote control, refer to the Key Descriptions section on page 3-4.

VCR OR DVD CODE

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Program for Satellite or Cable Box Direct Entry Method

In order for the 3 component universal remote to control your satellite or cable box, you must program it with the code that matches your component. The DBSCABLE key can be programmed to operate either a satellite receiver or a cable box. These instructions explain the preferred method of programming the remotethe Direct Entry method. 1. Manually turn on the satellite receiver or cable box. 2. Locate the enclosed Satellite or Cable Box Code List. Find your brand in the Satellite Codes or Cable Box Codes section, respectively.
Note: If your brand isnt listed, use

CODE INDICATOR SEARCH LIGHT

one of the Code Search methods to program this remote control (See Code Search on page 8). 3. Press and hold the CODE SEARCH key until the indicator light illuminates. Then release the CODE SEARCH key.

DBS CABLE AUX

(BLINK)

4. Press and release the DBSCABLE key. The indicator light blinks and then remains lit. 5. Use the number keys on the remote to enter the first code listed for your brand. After you enter a valid three-digit code, the indicator light turns off.
Note: If you enter an invalid code, the

1 4 7

2 5 8 0

3 6 9

(OFF) ONOFF

LED will flash rapidly for 2 seconds. Start over at step 3. 6. Aim the remote at your satellite receiver or cable box and press the ONOFF key. If your Satellite receiver or cable box turns off, you have found the correct code. 7. Enter the code in the box provided on this page for future reference. 8. If your satellite receiver or cable box doesnt turn off, repeat steps 3-6 above, entering the next code for your brand.

DBS (SATELLITE) OR CABLE BOX CODE

If none of the codes work or your brand is not listed, use one of the Code Search methods to program this remote (See Code Search on page 8). For a description of each key on the remote control, refer to the Key Descriptions section page 3-4.

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Code Search Methods

If your components brand isnt listed in the Code List or you have tried all of the codes for your brand and the remote does not operate your component, use one of the Code Search methods belowManual Code Search or Auto Code Search. Both Code Search methods search all of the codes because your components code may be listed under another brand in the code list.
Note: The Code Search method may take a long time because

the remote searches all of the codes in its memory for the code which operates your component. Therefore, if your brand is listed in the Code List, use the Direct Entry method described on pages 5-7.

Manual Code Search

CODE INDICATOR SEARCH LIGHT

1. Turn on the component you want the remote to operate. 2. Press and hold the CODE SEARCH key until the indicator light illuminates. Then release the CODE SEARCH key.

DBS VCR CABLE DVD

TV

(BLINK)

3. Press and release the component key that corresponds to the component you want the remote to operate (TV, VCRDVD or DBSCABLE). The indicator light blinks once and then remains lit. 4. Aim the remote at the component and press the ONOFF key continuously until the component turns off.

ONOFF

Important: Because there are so many

codes, you may have to press the ONOFF key many timespossibly up to 200 times.
ENTER

5. When the component turns off, press the ENTER key to store the code. 6. Use Code Retrieval on the next page to identify the code for your component for future reference.

Auto Code Search

1. Turn on the component you want the remote to operate.
CODE INDICATOR SEARCH LIGHT

2. Press and hold the CODE SEARCH key until the indicator light illuminates. Then release the CODE SEARCH key. 3. Press and release the component key that corresponds to the component you want the remote to operate (TV, VCRDVD or DBSCABLE). The indicator light blinks once and then remains lit.

DBS VCR CABLE DVD

TV

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(BLINK)

ONOFF

4. Aim the remote at the component and press the ONOFF key once. The remote automatically sends every code for the specified component one at a time, with a 3 second delay between each code. Keep the remote aimed at the component throughout the process. 5. As soon as the component turns off, you must press the ENTER key immediately so the remote stores the correct code. If you dont press ENTER within 3 seconds, the remote will send the next code in the list, and you will have to start over from step 2. 6. Use Code Retrieval to identify the code for your component for future reference.

ENTER

Code Retrieval
If you used one of the Code Search methods to program your remote, follow the steps below to find out which code is compatible with your component. Finding the actual code and writing it down will save you time if you ever need to program the remote again (e.g., if programming is lost when you change the batteries).
CODE INDICATOR LIGHT SEARCH

1. Press and hold the CODE SEARCH key until the indicator light illuminates. Then release the CODE SEARCH key. 2. Press and release the component key that matches the components code you are retrieving (TV, VCRDVD, or DBSCABLE). The indicator light blinks once and then remains lit. 3. Press and release the CODE SEARCH key. The indicator light turns off. 4. Starting with 0 on the keypad, press the number keys in order (0-9) until the indicator light blinks.

DBS VCR CABLE DVD

AUX

TV

(BLINK)

CODE SEARCH (OFF)

5. The number that causes the indicator light to blink is the first digit of your code. 6. Repeat step 4 until you have retrieved all three numbers of the code.

(BLINK)

7. Refer to the code box to write down the code for your component within the Direct Entry Section (pages 5-7) for the component just programmed.

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Sleep Feature (Select Models Only)

This feature will automatically turn off your TV at a duration you choose from 1 to 99 minutes. PROGRAMMING SLEEP FEATURE
SLEEP INDICATOR LIGHT

1. Press and hold the SLEEP key until the indicator light illuminates. Release the SLEEP key. 2. Enter time in minutes using the numerical key pad. The indicator light should turn off. (Minute 1 thru 9: press 0 before the actual number. Maximum: 99 minutes). 3. Leave remote aimed at television. (Sleep Feature will not work unless remote is left aimed at television.) CANCELING THE SLEEP TIMER

1 4 7

2 5 8 0

3 6 9

SLEEP

(BLINK)

OR
ONOFF

The Sleep Timer program will be canceled and reset to zero by either of the following. 1. Press and hold the SLEEP key until the indicator light blinks. 2. Press the ONOFF key, turning TV off.

Using On-screen Menus

This remote cannot access every menu system of all models and brands of consumer electronics components. However, if youve successfully programmed the VCRDVD key to operate a DVD player, you can access DVD disc menus with the MENU key. The MENU key will also access TV menu systems for most RCA, GE and PROSCAN TV's, as well as some other popular brands. Also, some RCA VCR menus are supported by this remotes menu key. This remote also supports select satellite receiver menus. If this remotes MENU key doesnt access the menu system for your component, youll need to use the original remote to change menu settings.
Note: This remotes MENU key doesnt support cable box

menu systems and some VCR menu systems.

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Accessing a Menu System

DBS VCR CABLE DVD TV

1. Make sure your components are turned on and your TV is set to the component's input. 2. Press the component key on the remote (TV, VCRDVD or DBSCABLE).

(BLINK) MENU

3. Press the MENU key. The indicator light blinks continuously to indicate the remote is in Menu Mode and the components menu should appear on the TV screen.

Highlighting and Selecting Menu Items

To navigate On-screen Menus, use the VOL UP/DOWN and/or CHAN UP/DOWN keys. VOL UP/DOWN keys move the cursor (or the highlight) right/left. CHAN UP/DOWN keys move the cursor (or the highlight) up/down. For RCA, GE or PROSCAN products, press the MENU or ENTER key to select the highlighted item. If menu items have numbers next to them, you can use the number keys to select an item. Additionally, the ENTER key can be used to select menu choices. For Sony products, pressing the ENTER key while in Menu Mode returns you to the previous menu.

This is an example of a DVD disc On-screen Menu. English is the menu choice highlighted. Using this remote control, you would press the ENTER key to select English. To highlight another language, you would press the CHAN DOWN key (In the example above, the highlight would move to Espaol).

Notes:

All functions in competitive models and brands of products may not be fully supported. The remote will automatically time out in Menu Mode and the indicator light will stop blinking after approximately 10 seconds of inactivity (no keys being pressed). For DVD menus, the Menu Mode will time out after approximately 15 seconds. Because of the wide variety of menu formats, some experimenting may be required.

Exiting a Menu System

To exit Menu Mode, press the corresponding component key on the remote (TV, VCRDVD or DBSCABLE). The indicator light goes out and the remote reverts to its normal mode of operation.

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Troubleshooting
Problem: The remote cant be programmed to operate your component.

You may be too far away from the component or at a wrong angle. This remote uses IR (infrared) technology to communicate with components. The remote sends the code and the components IR sensor reads the code. Therefore, there must be an unobstructed path between the remote and the IR sensor on the component. Move closer and make sure you point the remote at the component (VCR or DVD player when programming the VCRDVD key; TV when programming the TV key; cable box or satellite receiver when youre programming the DBSCABLE key). If youve entered all of the codes for your brand that are in the accompanying Code List and followed the instructions, try one of the Code Search methods (See Code Search on page 8) You must put the remote in the correct mode by pressing the corresponding component key (TV, VCRDVD, DBSCABLE) so the remote knows which component you want to operate. To program the 3 component universal remote to operate a combination unit (TV/VCR or TV/DVD), first try the VCR or DVD codes for your brand. Some units, however, require that you program both the TV (using the TV codes) and the VCR or DVD (using the VCR or DVD codes) for full operation.
Problem: The indicator light does not light when you press a key.

You must put the remote in the correct mode by pressing the corresponding component key (TV, VCRDVD, DBSCABLE) so the remote knows which component you want to operate. You may have pressed an invalid key for the mode the remote is in (for example, REC only works in VCR Mode). Make sure the batteries are properly installed. Replace the batteries with two new AAA batteries. Reprogramming may be required.
Problem: The remote does not operate your component.

You must put the remote in the correct mode by pressing the corresponding component key (TV, VCRDVD, DBSCABLE) so the remote knows which component you want to operate. Remove any obstacles between the remote and the component. Make sure to aim the remote at the IR sensor on the component. Make sure the batteries are properly installed (See Battery Installation on page 3). Replace the batteries with two new AAA batteries. Reprogramming may be required. Reset the remote. Remove the batteries, then press and hold the number 1 key on the remote for several seconds to reset the microprocessor inside the remote. Release the number 1 key, reinstall the batteries, and try the remote again. Reprogramming will be required.

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Problem: The remote is not performing commands properly.

You must put the remote in the correct mode by pressing the corresponding component key (TV, VCRDVD, DBSCABLE) so the remote knows which component you want to operate. Make sure component is ready (e.g., DVD player has disc loaded; VCR has tape loaded, etc.) You may have pressed an invalid key for the mode the remote is in (for example, REC only works in VCR mode). If youre trying to turn on an RCA, GE or PROSCAN component, press the component key (TV, VCRDVD, DBSCABLE) instead of the ONOFF key. If operating a VCR to record, you must press the REC key two times. If youre trying to change channels, try pressing the ENTER key after entering the channel number as this is a requirement of certain models and brands. There is a possibility that a programmed code may only be able to control some of your component features (e.g., only turns a component on and off). Follow the steps provided for programming the remote (See Programming Sections on pages 5-7). If the component can be turned on and off, make sure you press the CHAN UP/DOWN key to see if the component responds. If not, try the next code from the list.
Problem: The VCR wont record.

As a safety feature, you must press the REC key twice to begin recording. Make sure the tape is properly loaded in the VCR. Make sure the tape is not write-protected. If the safety tab is removed the tape is write-protected and you cannot record onto that tape.
Problem: The remote will not change channels.

You must put the remote in the correct mode by pressing the corresponding component key (TV, VCRDVD, DBSCABLE) so the remote knows which component you want to operate. Press the ENTER key after you enter a channel number.
Problem: The components menu doesnt appear on the TV screen.

The TV must be tuned to the Video Input that matches the manner in which you connected the component to the TV. For example, if you connected your DVD player to your TV by connecting audio/video cables (usually colorcoded yellow, red, and white) to the TVs Input 1 jack, you must tune the TV to its Video Input 1 channel. Remember, different manufacturers label these jacks differently. Consult the instruction manual that came with the TV for more information. You must put the remote in the correct mode by pressing the corresponding component key (TV, VCRDVD, DBSCABLE) so the remote knows which component you want to operate. Menu access isnt supported for all brands. If thats the case, youll need to use your original remote control to access menu functions for these components.
If you have further questions, please visit www.rca.com.

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Limited 90-Day Warranty

THOMSON INC. warrants that for 90 days from date of purchase, it will replace this product if found to be defective in materials or workmanship. Return it postage prepaid to the Product Exchange Center address for prompt, no-charge replacement with a current equivalent. This replacement is THOMSON INC.s sole obligation under this warranty. THOMSON INC. will not be responsible for any incidental or consequential damages or for any loss arising in connection with the use or in ability to use this product. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty excludes defects or damage due to misuse, abuse or neglect. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary from state to state. Product Exchange Center 11721 Alameda Ave. Socorro, TX 79927

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Consolidate three remote controls into one!

Operates up to three components, including: TV DVD or VCR Cable box

INS SET TRU -UP INS CTIO IDE NS

Dedicated MENU key Operates menu system of major TV brands (most RCA, GE, PROSCAN) and some other popular brands. Operates DVD disc menus!

Compatible with todays most popular brands!

Your RCA universal remote control is compatible with most brands of infrared remote-controlled components manufactured after 1990. Some well-known brands are shown below. The complete list of brands is found on the Code List inside this package. The remote already operates most RCA, GE and PROSCAN products without any programming!

TV
Apex Audiovox Broksonic Citizen Curtis Mathes Daewoo Emerson GE Hisense Hitachi JC Penney JVC Kenwood LG (Goldstar) LXI Magnavox Mitsubishi Montgomery Ward NEC Orion Panasonic Philco Philips Pioneer Prima PROSCAN Quasar RadioShack/ Realistic RCA Samsung Sanyo Sears Sharp Sony Sylvania Tandy Teknika Toshiba Victor Wards Yamaha Zenith

DVD
Aiwa Apex Broksonic Daewoo Emerson Funai Go-Video Hitachi JVC Kenwood Konka Magnavox Memorex Mintek Mitsubishi NAD Onkyo Orition Panasonic Philips Pioneer PROSCAN Qwestar RCA Samsung Sansui Sanyo Sharp Sony Sylvania Toshiba Zenith

VCR
Canon Curtis Mathes Daewoo Emerson GE Go-Video Hitachi JC Penney JVC Kenwood LG (Goldstar) LXI Magnavox Matsushita Mitsubishi Montgomery Ward NEC Panasonic Philco Philips Pioneer PROSCAN Quasar RadioShack/ Realistic RCA Samsung Sanyo Sears Sharp Sony Sylvania Tandy Teknika Toshiba Victor Wards Yamaha Zenith

Cable
ABC Archer Cableview Citizen Garrard GC Electronics GE General Instruments Jerrold Motorola Philips Pioneer RCA Scientific Atlanta United Cable Universal View Star Zenith

INSERT UPC HERE

Requires 2 AAA batteries (sold separately). 2003 THOMSON INC. 10330 N. Meridian Street Indianapolis, IN 46290 Made in Indonesia RCU300 US IB Rev C Trademark(s) Registered Marca(s) Registrada(s) www.rca.com See inside for details.