WILLIAMS SOUND Pocketalker 2.0 Personal Amplifier User Manual

WILLIAMS SOUND Pocketalker 2.0 Personal Amplifier

Safety Warnings

CAUTION!
The Pocketalker 2.0 is capable of producing very loud sound levels. To prevent sound levels greater than 132 dB that can potentially damage hearing with long-term exposure, use only earphones and headphones supplied by Williams Sound. The Williams Sound Headphone model HED 026 should not be used with the Pocketalker as it can produce sound levels greater than 132 dB.

CAUTION!
This product is an assistive listening device designed to amplify sounds to a high volume level which could potentially cause hearing damage if used improperly. To protect your hearing and the hearing of others, the product should be used as directed. Misuse or improper adjustment may cause harm.

1. Make sure the volume is turned off before putting on the earphone or headphone. While wearing the earphone or headphone, adjust the volume to a comfortable level.
2. Set the volume level at the minimum setting that you need to hear.
3. If you experience feedback (a squealing or howling sound), reduce the volume setting and move the microphone away from the earphone or headphone.

CAUTION!

1. Before using this product with a pacemaker or other medical device, consult your physician or the manufacturer of your pacemaker or other medical device.
2. If you have a pacemaker or other medical device, make sure that you are using this product in accordance with safety guidelines established by your physician or the pacemaker manufacturer.

CAUTION!
Do not allow children or other unauthorized persons to have access to this product.

WARNING!

1. To prevent injury, do not use this product near water or expose to moisture, steam, shower, rain or liquids.
2. Clean your Pocketalker 2.0 and it’s parts as recommended in the “Cleaning Instructions” section in this manual (or reference Technical Bulletin TCH 020 “Pocketalker Cleaning Instructions” by visiting our website).
3. To prevent injury, do not use or store this product near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other product that produce heat.
4. To prevent injury, use only attachments/accessories specified by Williams Sound.
5. To prevent strangulation or choking hazard, do not use the product with a neckloop or lanyard in areas where they could get pulled or caught in machinery or other objects.
6. To prevent injury, do not operate the product with broken or missing parts or with frayed or broken cords.
7. To prevent injury, never attempt to dry the product with a hair dryer, oven or a microwave oven.
8. To prevent injury, do not use the product while doing contact-related activities or while sleeping.
9. 9. To prevent injury, do not disassemble the product.
10. To prevent injury, the Pocketalker 2.0, it’s parts and batteries should be kept out of reach of infants, children, pets and anyone who might swallow these items or otherwise cause themselves injury.
11. To avoid battery leakage hazard, remove batteries if product will not be used for a period of 2 months or longer.
12. To prevent injury, never attempt to recharge non-rechargeable batteries.
13. Be aware of the possibility that your Pocketalker 2.0 may stop functioning without notice. Keep this in mind while you circulate in traffic or otherwise depend on warning sounds.
14. The use of headphones or earphones while driving a car (or any other vehicle) may limit or prevent the perception of surrounding noises and thereby cause an accident.
15. To prevent injury, do not use in the presence of pure oxygen, or while using pure oxygen.

NOTICE!
SERVICING OR ATTEMPTING TO SERVICE THIS DEVICE WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
Refer servicing to qualified personnel. Servicing is required when the unit has been damaged in any way; if liquid has been spilled into the unit, it has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped or broken in any way.

Overview

The Pocketalker® 2.0 is a versatile, high quality assistive listening device designed to improve communications in difficult listening situations. The Pocketalker delivers clear, distinct sound, while its large, manageable controls provide for easy operation.
Use the Pocketalker to improve listening on a one-to-one basis, in small group situations, while listening to your favorite TV or radio programs, or while riding in the car.
The Pocketalker is not sold, advertised, or intended for use as a personal hearing aid. Williams Sound recommends that any individual experiencing hearing loss be examined by a physician/audiologist to determine the cause before using an amplification device like the Pocketalker.
The Pocketalker is offered with rechargeable options.
Call Williams Sound for more information at 1-800-328-6190.

Included Items

PKT 2.0

• (1) PKT 2.0 Personal Amplifier
• (1) BAT 010-2 Two AAA Alkaline Batteries
• (1) MIC 014-R Plug-Mount Microphone, Omnidirectional
• (1) EAR 042 Dual Stereo Isolation Earphones
• (1) HED 024 Stereo Headphones
• (1) RCS 003 Lanyard

All accessories can be purchased separately

Overview Diagram

Getting Started

1. Open the battery cover: Using your thumb, apply firm pressure on the ridges of the cover and slide it down and away from the Pocketalker 2.0.
2. Switch the Battery Type Switch to the position for the battery type that will be used (Rechargeable/NiMH or Alkaline).

Battery Installation

NOTE: If using rechargeable NiMH AAA batteries, the battery switch MUST be switched to the NiMH position to allow charging!

3. Press 2 AAA batteries into place in the battery compartment, being careful to observe correct placement of (+) and (–) terminals.

4. Your Pocketalker system is supplied with the headphone and earphone for best performance. Williams Sound offers additional options – visit www.williamsav.com.
   WARNING!
   Recharge only batteries recommended by Williams Sound. To prevent injury, do not attempt to charge Alkaline or other non-rechargeable batteries!
   Headphone/Earphone Jack
   Left Side View:

5. Wear the earphone or headphone so it fits comfortably.

Note: If using a single/mono headphone/earphone or a neckloop, turn the balance fully left (counter-clockwise) – this will maximize volume and help to maximize battery life.

Balance Adjustment – Single/Dual Earphones

Battery Compartment:

6. Adjust the balance for the type of headphone or earphone being used. Using a small screwdriver, turn left (or right) to increase (or decrease) the volume level on the left or right side of the headphones.
7. Close the battery compartment cover: align the cover on the back of the unit and slide it upwards until it snaps into place.
8. Optional: If the external microphone (MIC 014-R) will be used, plug it into the External Microphone Jack on the top of the unit.

Microphone Use / Installation

Top View:

Turn ON the Pocketalker by rolling the “Power On/Off Volume Adjust” rotary dial (located on the front) towards the top. The power “on” green LED indicator on the front of the unit should light up. As the knob is rotated towards the top, the volume will get louder.

Power On / Volume Adjustment Dial

Front View:

Adjust the volume up or down according to your preferences by rotating the volume dial towards the top (for more volume) or towards the bottom (for less volume).

Note: The Power “On” Green LED will blink fast when the battery is low.
11. Adjust the tone according to your preferences. Turning the tone control towards the top (+) boosts the treble (high frequency). Turning the tone control towards the bottom (-) boosts the bass (low frequency). The white dot on the dial  indicates the normal position (no treble or bass boost).

Tone Adjustment Dial

Left Side View:

Front View:

Using the built-in T-coil with a Loop System

The Pocketalker can be used with loop systems. When the T-coil switch on the Pocketalker is enabled, the Pocketalker disables the microphone input, picks up the loop signal, and sends the audio through the headphone jack.
To use this feature:
Follow the “Getting Started” instructions and instead of step 8, flip the T-coil switch to the “T-coil” position (up towards the T-coil symbol). The T-coil “On” LED indicator above the switch will light up.

Internal T-Coil Switch and Indicator LED

Right Side View:

Note: For best performance when using the T-coil feature, the Pocketalker must be in a vertical orientation. This ensures the best magnetic coupling to the loop system. When the T-coil switch on the Pocketalker is enabled, the Pocketalker disables the microphone input.

Recharging NiMH Batteries

BATTERY RECHARGING KITS MODEL BAT KT7:
SAFETY WARNINGS

1. To prevent injury, never charge batteries when the Pocketalker 2.0 is in enclosed spaces such as handbags, cases, or other closed storage bags.
2. To prevent injury, unplug the charger during lightning storms, or when charging is complete and the device is unused for 2 months or more.
3. To prevent injury, be advised that different AC operating voltages require the use of different types of wall outlet adapters. Check the line voltage in your area and use the correct prong type.
4. To prevent injury, use only the power supply provided by Williams Sound. Other power supplies may have similar specifications, but may not be equivalent. Use of an unapproved power supply may present a safety hazard or leave the device partially or completely inoperable, and may void the warranty.
5. Do not use the power supply or cords if they have been damaged in any way.
6. Do not recharge the batteries for longer than 24 hours. After 24 hours, unplug the charger power supply from the wall outlet.

FOR CUSTOMERS IN THE UNITED STATES
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC rules.

CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK — DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR SIDES). NO USER-SERVICABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.

FOR CUSTOMERS IN CANADA
This Class B digital device meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Charging Instructions

The Pocketalker can recharge NiMH batteries when used with an optional BAT KT7 (International) charging kit.

1. Verify or change battery switch (located in the battery compartment) to the NiMH position.
2. Verify or insert NiMH batteries into battery compartment. Observe battery polarity when inserting the batteries.
3. Using the included USB A to USB Micro-B cable, plug the USB Micro-B end into the USB Micro-B charging port on the Pocketalker. Plug the USB A end into the USB A port on the power supply included with the charging kit. Plug the power supply into a wall outlet.
4. The charging indicator will blink slow while charging, and then will stay on solid when the unit is charged.

WARNING!
To prevent injury, do not attempt to recharge Alkaline batteries! Only recharge NiMH batteries recommended by Williams Sound (BAT 022-2).

Charging Connections

BAT KT7 (International) Charging Kit

Listening during conversations with others
The Pocketalker picks up sounds and boosts them according to the volume you’ve set. For best results, place or hold the Pocketalker’s microphone as close as possible to the person who is speaking.

Seated
Many users set the Pocketalker on a table if they’re in a restaurant or small group situation. Aim the microphone in the direction of the person speaking.

Standing Or Walking
Many users use the Pocketalker “Clip” and attach it to their pocket, pants or skirt. The lanyard may also be used (see section “Using the Lanyard”).

In The Car
For conversations in the car, you can use the External Microphone (MIC 014-R) with the optional 3.5 mm – 3.5 mm Microphone Extension Cord (WCA 007 WC).

WARNING!
To prevent injury, route the WCA 007 WC cord such that it will not cause entanglement and/or interfere with the safe driving of a car (or other vehicle), or cause entanglement in other locations.

Extending the External Microphone

When the Pocketalker’s internal microphone is too far away from the desired sound to be effective, the optional 3.5mm 12ft extension cord (WCA 007 WC) can be used to extend an external microphone to a television or another person.

WARNING!
To prevent injury, route the WCA 007 cord in a manner that prevents it from becoming a tripping or entanglement hazard.
To extend the Microphone:

1. Plug the external microphone into the female end of the extension cord. Arrange the cord to reach the loudspeaker of the TV or other person. Plug the male end of the extension cord into the microphone jack on the Pocketalker.

Using the Optional 3.5mm 12ft Extension Cord
Pocketalker: Front View

2.  For a TV: Attach one of the plastic clips (two PLC 004 clips are included with the WCA 007 WC kit) to the TV, near the loudspeaker, as shown in the illustration.
3. For a TV: Press the microphone into the plastic clip.
4. For a TV: Turn on the TV and the Pocketalker. Adjust the volume on both as needed.

Placement of Mic Clip on TV

Using an Optional Neckloop

Williams Sound’s optional neckloop (NKL 001) can be used with the Pocketalker in situations where the user has a hearing aid with a T-coil.

WARNING! To prevent strangulation, the neckloop should not be used if there is a risk of getting it lodged or stuck in machinery or other objects.
How it works: The Pocketalker picks up the sound with the internal or external microphone, and sends it into the neckloop. The neckloop magnetically couples with the T-coil in the listener’s hearing aid(s) . With the hearing aid T-coil switch on, the listener can hear the sound directly in their hearing aid(s). To use the neckloop: Place the neckloop around your neck as shown below. While holding the housing with one hand, pull up on the cord lock bead with the other hand to tighten for comfort. Plug the neckloop into the headphone jack on the Pocketalker. Turn on the T-coil in the hearing aid(s). Turn on the Pocketalker and adjust the volume to a comfortable listening level.

Using a Neckloop

Using the Lanyard

The supplied Pocketalker Lanyard (RCS 003) provides a convenient way of transporting the Pocketalker from place to place; it protects your investment from accidental dropping, and provides quick and easy access for operation whenever it is needed.
WARNING! To prevent strangulation, the lanyard should not be used if there is a risk of getting it lodged or stuck in machinery or other objects.

Pocketalker worn hanging around the neck with the supplied Pocketalker Lanyard

Operating the Pocketalker at a table using the Lanyard as a wrist strap

Installing the Lanyard (RCS 003)

LED Indicators

in)
Off| Off| | Battery too low to operate
| Fast blinks| | Batteries are too low to charge. PockeTalker is attempting to recondition batteries. If fast blinks persist for more than 2 hours, batteries are bad; replace with new batteries. If recondition attempt is successful, Charge LED will change to slow blinks, indicating that normal charging is now occuring.

LED Blink Rates

Hints & Tips / Troubleshooting

The Pocketalker has been designed to be as easy to use as possible. However, if you have trouble, check the following:

1. If using an external microphone, make sure the microphone is plugged into the “External Mic” jack and the T-Coil switch is set to “Off”. Make sure the earphone or headphone is plugged into the “Headphone” jack . If using the T-Coil on the Pocketalker, make sure the T-Coil Switch is on and verify that the T-Coil indicator LED is lit.

2. Make sure the batteries are not depleted and have been inserted correctly (observing correct polarity ±) into the battery compartment.

3. If using rechargeable batteries, make sure the batteries
   are sufficiently charged and that the battery switch is set appropriately to the NiMH position.

4. If you experience a howling or squealing sound, this is called feedback. Depending on the earphone or headphone used, you can sometimes get feedback when the volume control is turned higher than 3 or 311⁄22.
   To reduce feedback, turn down the volume, or move the microphone (internal or external) farther away from the earphone or headphone.
   Also, try turning the Tone Control down (counter-clockwise) to reduce the high frequency.

5. The Pocketalker headphone jack is a stereo jack, designed for use with stereo earphones or headphones. However, if you use mono earphones or headphones with the Pocketalker, turn the balance control (located in the battery compartment) fully to the left, or “mono” position. While this maximizes volume, this will also help in maximizing battery life.

6. Observe what the LED indicators on the unit are doing: Power ON LED (on front)
   Charging LED (on right side)
   T- Coil LED (on right side)
   See the chart under “LED Indicators” to determine unit status and problem resolution.

7. If the steps above don’t solve the problem, contact your Williams Sound Dealer for further instructions.

Cleaning Instructions

CAUTION!
Avoid getting any liquid inside the Pocketalker unit as it can damage the circuit board and will void the warranty.

1. Use an alcohol wipe or 3% hydrogen peroxide solution to clean the outside of the Pocketalker case and the earphone/headphone cord. Wiping cloth should be damp rather than soaking wet (see Caution #5). Lightly swab the unit down, as pressing hard may release liquid into the unit (see Caution #5).

2. The Pocketalker can be carefully cleaned with “Hospital Cleaner Disinfectant Towels with Bleach, or alcohol” however, we cannot guarantee that the coloring / markings on the unit will not be affected as a result of multiple bleach applications.

3. Replace the earphone foam pads with each new user, or use disposable sanitary headphone covers with each new user.
   (Earphone/headphone pads/covers are available through Williams Sound).

4. If using a plug-in microphone (MIC 014-R), replace the optional disposable sanitary microphone cover (WND 012) with each new user.(Both the MIC 014-R Plug-In Microphone and WND 012 Sanitary Microphone Cover are available through Williams Sound. The WND 012 is sold in packs of 100).

5. Do not spray or put liquid directly on the unit. Apply cleaning solution to a wipe or swab to clean the Pocketalker. Avoid pressing hard. It is crucial that “No Liquid” of any kind gets in the electronics of the unit, (i.e. Headphone jack, microphone jack, USB charging jack, internal speaker, internal microphone, volume knob, tone control or t-coil switch).

Specifications

Personal amplifier Model PKT 2.0

Dimensions:| 4.9” L x 2.0” W x 1.0” H. (124mm x 51mm x 25mm) (Not including clip or

microphone assembly)

---|---
Weight:| 3.1 oz. (88 grams) (with batteries)
Color/material:| White ABS/Polycarbonate molded plastic case.
Battery Type:| Two (AAA size), either 1.5 VDC Alkaline or 1.2 VDC NiMH rechargeable*

(Williams Sound BAT 010-2 Alkaline or BAT 022-2 NiMH)

Battery Life:| Up to 105 hours (typical usage) with the BAT 010-2 (Alkaline).

Low Battery Indicator: Power “On” Green light on front panel flashes.

**NiMH battery

Charging:

| Charging: 16 hours with BAT 022-2. Red LED blinks when charging. End of Charge: Red LED is on solid. At end of charge, maintenance charge is provided.

NOTE: Charging requires optional charging kit BAT KT7.

Microphone:| Internal, omnidirectional MEMS microphone (micro-electro- mechanical system).
Optional External, omnidirectional, plug-in electret microphone with foam windscreen and 3.5mm mono plug (MIC 014-R).
T-Coil:| Internal with on/off switch and LED indicator.
Tone Control:| External rotary control knob allows user to adjust high/low frequency to optimize hearing.
*** Balance Control:| Adjusts Left/Right Volume Balance
Power/Volume

Control:

| External rotary volume control knob with integrated power ON-OFF switch.
Microphone Jack:| 3.5 mm, stereo mini plug.

Tip=Mic signal, Ring=NC, Sleeve=Gnd.

Headphone Jack:| 3.5 mm, stereo mini plug.

Tip=Left/Mono, Ring=Right, Sleeve=Gnd.

Optional Accessories:| Lanyard: RCS 003; Allows user to wear unit around the neck, or as a wrist strap.

3.5mm-3.5mm Extension Cord: WCA 007 WC; extends an external microphone to 12 ft.

Stereo Earphones / Headphones / Neckloop:

EAR 042 / HED 024, HED 036 / NKL 001-S (stereo) Neckloop

Mono Earphones / Headphones / Neckloop***:

EAR 013, EAR 008, EAR 022, EAR 041 / HED 021, HED 027 / NKL 001

(mono) Neckloop

Charging Kits: BAT KT7 (International)

Approvals:
CE (Note 1), RoHS (Note 2), FCC, IC, WEEE (Note 3)

Warranty:
5 years, parts and labor (90 days on accessories)

Frequency response

SPECIFICATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

• Battery switch must be in correct position for battery type being used.
• Charging requires optional charging kit BAT KT7 (International).
• When using mono earphones, headphones or neckloop, the balance control on the Pocketalker must be turned fully counter-clockwise (to the “mono” position) for best volume and battery life.

The Pocketalker is not sold, advertised, or intended for use as a personal hearing aid. Williams Sound recommends that any individual experiencing hearing loss be examined by a physician/audiologist to determine the cause before using an amplification device such as the Pocketalker.
Acoustic Specifications for Headphones recommended for use with the Pocketalker are published on our website.

• Note 1: CE approval does not apply if product does not display the CE mark.
• Note 2: RoHS3: Directive 2011/65/EU + 2015/863/EU
• Note 3: WEEE: Directive 2012/19/EU

This product is covered by the European directives above, including amendments, concerning Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE). Recycle the product and its accessories according to national regulations.

FCC Compliance Statement:

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

WARNING! Changes or modifications by user not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

Limited Warranty

Williams Sound products are engineered, designed and manufactured under carefully controlled conditions to provide you with many years of reliable service. Williams Sound warrants the Pocketalker PKT 2.0 Personal Amplifier against defects in materials and workmanship for FIVE (5) years. During the first five years from the purchase date, we will promptly repair or replace the Pocketalker PKT 2.0 Personal Amplifier.
Microphones, earphones, headphones, batteries, cables, carry cases, and all other accessory products carry a 90-day warranty. Neckloops carry a 1-year warranty.
WILLIAMS SOUND HAS NO CONTROL OVER THE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH THIS PRODUCT IS USED. WILLIAMS SOUND, THEREFORE, DISCLAIMS
ALL WARRANTIES NOT SET FORTH ABOVE, BOTH EXPRESS AND IMPLIED, WITH RESPECT TO THE POCKETALKER® 2.0 AMPLIFIER, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. WILLIAMS SOUND SHALL NOT
BE LIABLE TO ANY PERSON OR ENTITY FOR ANY MEDICAL EXPENSES OR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES CAUSED BY ANY USE, DEFECT, FAILURE OR MALFUNCTION OF THE PRODUCT, WHETHER
A CLAIM FOR SUCH DAMAGES IS BASED UPON WARRANTY, CONTRACT, TORT OR OTHERWISE. THE SOLE REMEDY FOR ANY DEFECT, FAILURE OR MALFUNCTION OF THE PRODUCT IS REPLACEMENT OF THE PRODUCT.
NO PERSON HAS ANY AUTHORITY TO BIND WILLIAMS SOUND TO ANY REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY WITH RESPECT TO THE POCKETALKER® 2.0. UNAUTHORIZED REPAIRS OR MODIFICATIONS WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
The exclusions and limitations set out above are not intended to, and should not be construed so as to contravene mandatory provisions of applicable law. If any part or term of this Disclaimer of Warranty is held to be illegal, unenforceable or in conflict with applicable law by a court of competent jurisdiction, the validity of the remaining portions of this Disclaimer of Warranty shall not be affected, and all rights and obligations shall be construed and enforced as if this Limited Warranty did not contain the particular part or term held to be invalid.
If you experience difficulty with your system, call Toll-Free for Customer Assistance:
1-800-328-6190 (U.S.A.)
1-952-943-2252 (Outside the U.S.A.)

WilliamsAV.com
U.S. | 800.843.3544 info@williamsav.com
MAN 181L-0123
INTL | +1.952.943.2252 info-intl@williamsav.com © 2022, Williams AV, LLC

References

• Williams AV - Williams AV
• Williams AV - Williams AV

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