Sharp Atomic Clock SPC373: The Ultimate User Setup & Troubleshooting Guide
The Sharp SPC373 Atomic Desktop Clock is a popular choice for those who want "set it and forget it" accuracy. Because it syncs with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) radio signal in Fort Collins, Colorado, it maintains split-second precision.
If you’ve lost your physical copy of the Sharp Atomic Clock SPC373 user manual, this guide covers everything from initial setup to troubleshooting signal issues. 1. Initial Setup and Battery Installation
To get started, you will need two (2) AA alkaline batteries. Open the battery compartment on the back of the clock.
Insert the batteries, ensuring the polarity (+/-) matches the markings inside the compartment.
Once the batteries are in, the LCD screen will turn on, and the clock will immediately begin searching for the WWVB atomic radio signal.
Note: Do not press any buttons for at least 5-10 minutes while the clock attempts its first synchronization. 2. Setting the Time Zone sharp atomic clock spc373 user manual
The clock defaults to Eastern Standard Time. You must manually select your time zone so the atomic signal displays the correct hour for your location.
Press and hold the TIME button (or SET button, depending on the production run) until the display flashes.
Use the UP/DOWN (or + / -) buttons to toggle through the time zones: P (Pacific) M (Mountain) C (Central) E (Eastern) Press the TIME/SET button again to confirm. 3. Manual Time and Date Entry
If you live in an area with poor signal reception, you may need to set the clock manually: Press and hold the TIME/SET button for 3 seconds.
The Year will flash. Use the UP/DOWN buttons to adjust, then press SET. Repeat this process for Month, Date, Hour, and Minute.
Finally, select your preference for 12/24 hour format and Daylight Savings Time (DST) on/off. 4. Setting the Alarm Press the ALARM button once to view the alarm time. Press and hold the ALARM button until the digits flash. Use the UP/DOWN buttons to set your desired wake-up time. Press ALARM to lock it in. Sharp Atomic Clock SPC373: The Ultimate User Setup
Slide the ALARM ON/OFF switch to the "ON" position. A small bell icon should appear on the screen. 5. Understanding the Atomic Signal (WWVB)
The "Atomic" feature works via a built-in antenna that listens for a 60kHz radio signal.
The Icon: A tower icon with waves indicates the clock is receiving the signal.
Best Reception: The signal is strongest at night. Place the clock near a window facing Colorado for the best results.
Interference: Keep the clock at least 3-6 feet away from computers, TVs, or microwaves, as electronic interference can block the signal. 6. Troubleshooting Common Issues The time is off by exactly one or more hours.
This is almost always a Time Zone setting issue. Refer to Section 2 to ensure you have selected the correct zone (P, M, C, or E). The atomic icon is missing or flashing. Understanding the Display & Buttons The SPC373 typically
The clock attempts to sync every night at midnight. If it fails, it will try again an hour later. If it hasn't synced in days, try moving it to a different wall or closer to a window. The display is fading.
Atomic clocks require a consistent voltage to maintain the radio receiver. Even if the clock face looks visible, low batteries can prevent the "Atomic" sync from working. Replace with fresh alkaline batteries. Quick Reference Specs Model: SPC373 Power Source: 2 x AA Batteries
Features: Atomic Sync, Indoor Temperature, Calendar, Alarm/Snooze.
The SPC373 typically features 4-5 buttons on the back or top edge: SET, ▲/CH, ▼/MEM, SNOOZE/LIGHT, and WAVE/RESET.
| Button | Primary Function | Secondary/Long Press | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | SET | Enter time/date settings | Toggle between 12/24 hour mode | | ▲ (UP) | Increase value / Manual time zone | Change temperature (°C/°F) | | ▼ (DOWN) | Decrease value / View alarm time | Toggle DST (Daylight Saving) On/Off | | SNOOZE | Dim backlight / Snooze alarm | Touch to illuminate for 5 seconds | | WAVE | Manually force WWVB signal reception | N/A |
The SPC373 listens for the WWVB signal from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Colorado.
Solution: You are in the wrong time zone. Press and hold SET until you reach the "ZONE" setting. Change from "P" to "E" if you live in New York.