dogtra Tom Davis Edition 280C Remote Dog Training Owner’s Manual
- June 6, 2024
- Dogtra
Table of Contents
- dogtra Tom Davis Edition 280C Remote Dog Training
- IMPORTANT SAFETY AND PRODUCT INFORMATION
- AT A GLANCE
- MAIN FEATURES
- OVERVIEW
- UNDERSTANDING YOUR TRAINING SYSTEM
- Setting up Boost feature
- BUNGEE COLLAR Assembly
- Receiver Fitting
- Finding the Right Stimulation
- Maximizing the Distance
- LED Indicator
- Charging the Battery
- Handheld Transmitter LCD
- Attaching the Belt Clip
- Using the Test Light
- GENERAL TRAINING TIPS
- MAINTENANCE
- TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
- DOGTRA PRODUCT WARRANTY
- DISCLAIMER OF OTHER WARRANTIES
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
dogtra Tom Davis Edition 280C Remote Dog Training
IMPORTANT SAFETY AND PRODUCT INFORMATION
WARNING
Please read all safety and product information below before using your Dogtra
product. Failure to follow these safety instructions could result in injury to
you, your dog and others, or it could result in damage to your Dogtra product
or other property.
PRODUCT SAFETY
Training Methods
Dogtra products may be used with a variety of training methods. However, each
dog may have a different reaction to training methods and to Dogtra products.
Closely observe your dog when determining the right training method to use
with your Dogtra product.
Aggressive Dogs
Do not use Dogtra products with aggressive dogs as such dogs may react
adversely and cause injury to people or other dogs. Seek the assistance of a
dog-training specialist or veterinarian when dealing with aggressive dogs.
Children
Dogtra products are not toys. Adult supervision and close attention are
necessary when Dogtra products are used by or near children.
PRODUCT DAMAGE
Electrical Product
Your Dogtra product contains electrical components and batteries. Do not use
or keep your product near heat or flammable sources. Such use or storage may
damage your product and/or cause fire, explosion, injury, or property damage.
Medical Device Interference
Dogtra products contain electrical and magnetic components that emit low level
electromagnetic waves and radio frequencies. These electromagnetic waves or
radio frequencies may interfere with pacemakers, defibrillators, or other
medical devices. Consult your physician or medical device maker before using
your medical device with a Dogtra product. If you think that your Dogtra
product is interfering with your pacemaker, defibrillator, or other medical
device, stop using the Dogtra product.
Inadvertent Activation
The digital microprocessor offers thousands of unique codes to eliminate
frequency match-up with other Dogtra e-collars. The Constant button will
automatically shut down after being held down for 12 seconds or more as a
safety feature.
UNAUTHORIZED USE
Your Dogtra product should be used only in a humane manner to train and
educate your dog. Dogtra products are not intended for use in any other manner
nor are they intended for use with other animals or with humans.
BATTERY
Your Dogtra product contains batteries. Take care when removing and installing
batteries as your fingers may get caught. Dispose of batteries as provided by
your local regulations. Do not disassemble, crush, heat, or otherwise alter
the battery as it may cause fire, injury or property damage.
AT A GLANCE
Optional Accessories
Auto Charger
The auto charger for the TOM DAVIS EDITION 280C has an input of 12-volts to
24-volts and has an output of 5-volts 1000mAh.
European Charger
Dogtra’s European chargers are designed for use with a 220 volt AC electrical
outlet.
To purchase accessories, please visit www.dogtra.com or call customer service
at 888-811-9111.
MAIN FEATURES
- Nick/Continuous Nick stimulation
- HPP (High Performance Pager) vibration
- Constant stimulation with customizable Boost button for instant level increase
- BUNGEE COLLAR with a Cordloc 194 for easy use and secure custom sizing
- 127-level stimulation with Rheostat Dial and LCD screen for precise control
- IPX9K waterproof certified
- For dogs with 12″+ neck size
- For dogs as small as 10 lbs.
- Medium output receiver
- Compact receiver with enhanced contact points
- Checkered grip on handheld transmitter
OVERVIEW
UNDERSTANDING YOUR TRAINING SYSTEM
-
Turning the Product On/Off
To turn the handheld transmitter on, hold down the button on the right side of the transmitter until the LCD screen illuminates. To turn the transmitter off, hold down the same button on the right side of the transmitter until the LCD screen shuts off.To turn on the receiver, place the magnetic red dot on the back of the transmitter to the red dot on the receiver. Hold the two red dots together for a moment until the LED light on the receiver comes on.
To turn off the unit, repeat the same procedure holding the two red dots together momentarily. The LED light will turn red for a brief moment indicating that the receiver has now shut off. -
Transmitter Button Function
The transmitter for the TOM DAVIS EDITION 280C has four buttons (one on the face of the transmitter, two on the left side, and one on the right side).
On/Off Button
The on/off button is located on the right side of the transmitter. To turn the
transmitter on, hold the button until the LCD screen illuminates. To turn the
transmitter off, press the button until the screen is off. To turn the LCD
back light on and off, shortly press the on/off button.
Pager Button
The Pager button is located on the face of the transmitter. Pressing it will
give a vibration for as long as the button is pressed, for up to 12 seconds.
Stimulation Buttons
-
Nick & Continuous Nick
Tap to apply regular Nick and hold for Continuous Nick. -
Boosted Constant
Preset the incremental stimulation level to apply the Boosted Constant stimulation immediately.
Nick & Continuous Nick
The TOM DAVIS EDITION 280C includes an updated Nick button, which now has
“Continuous Nick” to add versatility to your training. Continuous Nick applies
a pulsating stimulation like Nick, but continues up to 12 seconds, imitating
the “tugging” sensation that is similar to that of a leash.
Simply tap to apply regular Nick, a single rapid pulse of stimulation, and hold for Continuous Nick to apply the displayed stimulation level.
Boosted Constant
Constant is an uninterrupted stimulation type. By setting the desired Boost
amount, you can immediately apply the Boosted Constant stimulation up to 12
seconds. To use the Constant at your current displayed level, you will have to
set the Boost amount to zero.
Current level + Boost amount = Boosted Constant output
Example
If you set the Boost amount at 10, the Boosted Constant output will increase
as shown below.
Current displayed level | Boost amount | Boosted Constant output |
---|---|---|
0 | 10 | 10 |
15 | 10 | 25 |
30 | 10 | 40 |
40 | 10 | 50 |
Attention! Nick & Continuous Nick cannot be boosted and will remain at the displayed level.
Setting up Boost feature
-
Set the stimulation level to zero.
-
Hold the Boosted Constant button for 5 seconds until the LED light blinks; then release it.
-
Turn the Rheostat Dial to select the incremental Boost amount as shown on the LCD screen.
Note: Set the Boost level to 0 to use the Constant stimulation without Boost. -
Tap the Boosted Constant button to save the setting.
Note: The saved setting will remain even if the unit is turned off. To reset the setting, repeat the steps above.
BUNGEE COLLAR Assembly
-
To replace the strap, prepare a new BUNGEE COLLAR strap and the screw clasp.
-
Place the logo side facing up and insert the strap as shown in the image. (Left to right if the front of the receiver is facing you)
-
Insert the strap through the D-ring that has not been assembled. Keep the strap on the flat side of the D-ring. (Refer to the opposite side that has already been assembled.)
-
Bring the strap over the flat side of the D-ring. Insert the screw clasp with the grooved screw clasp inside and the flat side on the outside of the strap. Use a coin to tighten
the screw. (Refer to the opposite side that has already been assembled.) -
The BUNGEE COLLAR is now assembled.
-
Note the position of the Cordloc wheel before adjusting. Slide the wheel down away from the strap to unlock the Cordloc and slide the wheel up towards the strap to lock the Cordloc.
-
To tighten the BUNGEE COLLAR, hold the end of the bungee and pull the Cordloc towards the strap.
-
To loosen the BUNGEE COLLAR, hold the bungee near the strap and press the Cordloc wheel towards the end of the bungee.
-
In order to fully lock the strap and Cordloc, pull the two parts in opposite directions. Move the Cordloc wheel up to lock the Cordloc.
Receiver Fitting
Proper Fit
The receiver should be fitted so that the medical grade stainless steel
contact points press firmly against the dog’s skin. You should be able to fit
two fingers underneath the collar strap. The best location is on either side
of the dog’s windpipe. After putting the BUNGEE COLLAR on your dog, make sure
that is is properly locked.
Improper Fit
A loose fit can allow the receiver to move around on the dog’s neck. When this
happens, the contact points may rub against the skin and cause irritation. If
the receiver is too loose, the contact will not be consistent and cause the
corrections to be inconsistent. Dogtra uses medical grade stainless steel
contact points and anti-microbial plastic to protect the dog’s skin.
Attention!
Leaving the receiver in the same location on the dog’s neck for an extended
period of time can cause skin irritation due to the sensitivity from the
contact points. If the dog is to wear the receiver for long periods,
occasionally reposition the receiver every few hours so that the contact
points are moved to a different location on the dog’s neck and remove the
receiver after 8 hours of usage. Make sure you check for skin irritation each
time you use the unit.
Finding the Right Stimulation
The TOM DAVIS EDITION 280C has a Rheostat Dial on the top of the transmitter (0 is the lowest and 127 is the highest). Remember that you will need to adjust the setting (upward or downward) depending on your dog’s temperament and threshold for stimulation. Always start at the lowest level and work your way up. The appropriate level can be found when the dog responds to the stimulation with a mild reaction. Also, as the dog’s attitude changes, especially during times of increased excitement or distraction, you may need to adjust the intensity level.
Note: The stimulation level can be adjusted even when the stimulation is in use. Increasing the level will not increase the HPP vibration strength as there is only one level for the HPP vibration.
Maximizing the Distance
The TOM DAVIS EDITION 280C has a 1/2-mile range. Depending on the way you use your transmitter, the transmitter range may vary. To get the greatest range, hold the transmitter away from your body and avoid touching the antenna. Keep your unit properly charged for maximum signal strength.
LED Indicator
The LED indicator flashes every 4 seconds when the receiver is on and ready
for use. The LED indicator will blink on both the transmitter and the receiver
when the transmitter buttons are pressed.
The LED indicator color indicates the battery life level.
Green = Full charge
Amber = Medium charge
Red = Needs charge
If the unit is used while the LED indicator is red, it may shut down
automatically.
Receiver Indicator Light
When the Constant button on the transmitter is pressed, the receiver indicator
light will glow steadily (either green, amber, or red based on the remaining
battery life), as long as you hold the button down, for up to 12 seconds. When
the Nick button is pressed, the light comes on for a fraction of a second.
Charging the Battery
The TOM DAVIS EDITION 280C uses a lithium polymer battery. Recharge the unit
if the indicator light is red or does not come on, the transmitter LCD shows
only 1 bar on the indicator, or the system will not stay on when any button is
pressed.
NOTE 1: Only use Dogtra-approved batteries, chargers, and accessories for
your Dogtra e-collars. This will prevent any damage that can be incurred from
attempting to use a different charger.
NOTE 2: The unit has a partial charge when it leaves the Dogtra facility.
Upon receipt of the system, be sure to give it a full 2-hour initial charge
before the first use away from any flammable substances.
NOTE 3: When a charger is not in use, disconnect it from the power
source. Fully charge the batteries if the unit is to be stored without use for
a period of 3 months or more.
Follow the steps below to charge your system:
- Open the rubber plugs on the battery charging receptacles and plug in the charging cable.
- Plug the charger into a 120-volt wall outlet or, if using the auto charger, plug into a cigarette lighter only for lithium polymer batteries (use a 220 volt European charger for Europe). All indicator lights should glow red when properly plugged in and the unit will automatically shut off during the charging process. You will need to turn the unit on again before use once the unit is fully charged and unplugged from the battery cable.
- The lithium polymer battery is fully charged within 2 hours. The lights will stay red during the charging process and turn green once the unit is fully charged.
- After charging, cover the battery charging receptacles with the rubber plugs.
Handheld Transmitter LCD
The LCD screen indicates the stimulation level on the screen ranging from (0-127). The battery life indicator shows:
3 bars = full charge
2 bars = medium charge
1 bar = needs charge
The battery life indicator only shows the remaining charge of your transmitter. To find the remaining charge for your receiver, observe the LED indicator light on the receiver.
Care for LCD Transmitters in Cold Temperature
In cold temperatures (10°F or below), the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) on
your transmitter may be dim or slow to respond. Wait until the display becomes
visible before selecting any training level. Even though the LCD screen might
be dim or slow to respond when you press the buttons, the transmitter will
still function properly. In the occurrence of extremely cold weather, the LCD
screen might take a moment to respond causing the intensity level to freeze at
that current level. If you turn the Rheostat Dial, the level on the screen may
not change but the actual intensity from the receiver will change in agreement
with the dial. In this situation, it is ideal to either wait until your
transmitter is back in working order before emitting a correction or slowly
turn the Rheostat Dial while holding down the Constant button to see your
dog’s reaction. Do not turn the Rheostat Dial rapidly since the receiver may
emit a stimulation based on the Rheostat Dial, which may not be reflected
correctly on the LCD screen.
Attention!
When using the unit in cold temperatures, it is recommended that the
transmitter is placed under your jacket next to your body. The warmth of your
body will greatly improve the battery life and usage.
Attaching the Belt Clip
Follow the instructions below to attach the included belt clip to the transmitter.
- Align the belt clip to the grooves on the back of the transmitter.
- With a firm grip, screw on the belt clip’s Phillips head screws with a screwdriver.
Caution: Tighten until firmly in place. Be careful not to over tighten.
Using the Test Light
- Turn on the receiver by placing the magnetic red dot on the back of the transmitter to the red dot on the receiver. The indicator light will come on for a moment then blink once every 4 seconds, showing that the receiver is ready to use (the receiver needs to be charged if the indicator light is red).
- Turn the transmitter on by holding down the on/off button on the right side of the transmitter. The LED will blink every 4 seconds and the LCD screen will show the remaining battery life (the transmitter needs to be charged if there is only 1 bar showing on the battery icon for the LCD transmitter screen).
- Place the test light, included in the package contents, on the contact points as shown in the diagram.
- Watch the test light as you press the Nick button on the transmitter. It should light up for just a moment. The higher the intensity, the brighter the test light will be.
- Watch the test light as you press the Constant button on the transmitter. It should light up as long as the button is pressed. However, as a safety feature, the receiver will automatically stop the stimulation if the Constant button is pressed for 12 seconds or longer.
- Turn the Rheostat Dial on the transmitter clockwise and then counterclockwise. The test light should glow brighter with higher levels of stimulation and dimmer with lower levels.
Note: The test light may not be visible if the intensity level is set below level ten.
GENERAL TRAINING TIPS
Your dog must know some basic obedience commands before beginning training with the TOM DAVIS EDITION 280C. A dog learns by first being shown a command, followed by lots of repetition over an extended period. As the dog becomes proficient at these commands, the trainer can introduce distractions and different locations to strengthen them.
Obedience Training on the Leash
Your dog must fully understand the obedience commands (sit, stay, here, heel,
and kennel) before using the e-collar for reinforcement of these commands. A
leash attached to a standard collar is used to “teach” the dog the basic
obedience commands (here, heel, sit, and stay). A tug on the leash/collar is
used to reinforce the command. When the dog complies with the command, use
positive reinforcement/praise. Once the dog understands these commands, the
e-collar can be used to reinforce them.
Beginning E-Collar Training
When you feel your dog understands the obedience commands on the leash we can
now start with the e-collar training. With the dog on the leash and wearing
the e-collar, continue with your obedience drills. Apply light stimulation
(Nick or Constant) when a command is given; the stimulation can be removed as
the dog complies. Through repetition, the dog learns to perform the command.
The final step is the avoidance phase in which the dog learns that he can
avoid the stimulation altogether by performing your commands. When these
training procedures are complete, the e-collar is used as a reminder when the
dog does not comply with your commands at home or in the field. Keep your
initial training sessions short and positive as dogs have a short attention
span.
How Much Stimulation to Use
Always start with low levels of stimulation and work your way up depending on
the disposition of your dog and the given situation. By using the correct
amount of stimulation to get your point across, you will have a more
controllable environment and a dog that is under less stress. Animals (and
humans) perform better in a less stressful environment.
For more training information, please visit our website at
www.dogtra.com
MAINTENANCE
Basic Maintenance
Make sure the rubber charging cap is securely in place when the system is in
use. After each training session, carefully inspect the unit for any missing
parts or damage to the casing. The damaged or broken casing may affect the
waterproof guarantee on the unit. After confirming that there is no damage to
the casing, rinse the receiver and clean out any dirt or debris.
Storage Maintenance
The unit should be fully charged before storing for extended periods. While in
storage, the unit should be given a full charge once a month and before the
first use. Store the units in room temperature. Do not keep the units exposed
to extreme climates.
Troubleshooting
If the unit is malfunctioning, please refer to the “Troubleshooting Guide”
before sending it to Dogtra for service. If you have any questions or
concerns, you may email them to info@dogtra.com, or
call customer service at 888-811-9111.
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
- My dog is not reacting to the system.
- Make sure the receiver and transmitter are on.
- Make sure the collar strap is tight enough so both contact points are touching the dog’s skin.
- The contact points may be too short for the dog. To place an order for longer contact points that are more appropriate for your dog, please call 888-811-9111. If you are already using the longest contact points available, you might need to trim down the hair on the dog’s neck so both contact points are touching the dog’s skin.
- The intensity level may be too low for your dog. Keep increasing the stimulation until the dog responds, usually with neck movement, head shaking, looking over its shoulder, etc. (response may be very subtle).
- The LED indicator light comes on, but I do not feel any stimulation.
- Testing the system at various levels using the test light is the best way to test your system. Your tolerance may be higher than the level you are testing yourself.
- The battery may be low, so check the LED light for battery life.
- The transmitter has no range or stimulation is less when the dog is farther away.
- The antenna(s) may be damaged. To order parts, please contact customer service at 888-811-9111 or go to www.dogtra.com.
- The range indicated on the unit’s box is for flat terrain. Heavy brush, trees, hills, or moisture will affect the range of your unit. For best range, hold the transmitter vertically above your head, and/or try moving to higher ground.
- Any electrical conductors will affect the range, such as cars, chain-link dog runs, metal structures, and radio towers. For best results, operate away from these items.
- My unit is not holding a charge.
- The batteries might not be charged properly, or the charger, splitter, and the charging port may not be functioning properly. You can send in your charging units to have us inspect them.
- The charging pin may be damaged. Inside the charging port, there is a metal pin that should be standing straight up and stiff. If the pin is wobbling, broken, or missing, you will need to send the unit in to the Repair Department. The charging port must be clean prior to charging; clean the dirt out with a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol. If the dog is in salt-water, be sure to rinse the receiver and charging port with clean water.
- If the above does not resolve your issues, contact Dogtra customer service at info@dogtra.com or 888-811-9111.
DOGTRA PRODUCT WARRANTY
LIMITED WARRANTY
For Dogtra Products Purchased from Dogtra Authorized Dealers
One-Year Warranty
Except as otherwise provided below, Dogtra warrants to the original retail
purchaser (“You”) that its Dogtra products shall be free of defects in
materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of
purchase (“Warranty”). The Warranty covers the cost of repair (parts and
labor) or replacement (if repair is not feasible) of a defective Dogtra
product during said one-year period. For such repaired or replaced products,
the remaining portion of the original warranty period, or ninety (90) days,
whichever is longer, shall apply. Dogtra, at its sole discretion, shall
determine whether to repair or replace a product covered by the Warranty.
Warranty Conditions
The Warranty is not transferrable and applies to your Dogtra product only if:
- You are the original retail purchaser of the product,
- You bought the product from a Dogtra authorized dealer, and
- You present a receipt or other proof of purchase showing a valid purchase date, the name and address of the authorized dealer, and the purchased product identified by model and/or serial number.
Warranty Exclusions
The Warranty does not cover damage, loss, or deterioration to your Dogtra
product caused: by misuse, neglect, abuse, or other improper handling of the
product; by failure to follow use or care instructions; by use of the product
for other than its intended purpose; by accident or natural forces such as
fire or flooding; or by normal wear and tear such as scratches to the product
surface.
The Warranty also does not cover Dogtra products that: are purchased from non-
authorized dealers; are purchased outside of the United States or Canada; have
been damaged during shipment (even if Dogtra paid or arranged for shipping);
have been modified or tampered with in any manner; are opened or repaired by
anyone other than Dogtra; or have serial numbers that have been altered or
defaced.
Sole Warranty
This Warranty is the only warranty offered by Dogtra for its Dogtra products.
Other than said Warranty, Dogtra makes no other representations or warranties
whatsoever regarding its products, whether oral or in any product manual, on
any packaging, on any website, or in any other written material. No dealer of
Dogtra products, nor any employee or agent of Dogtra, is authorized to make
any additions, changes, or extensions to the Warranty. Dogtra, at its sole
discretion and at any time, reserves the right to modify the Warranty.
DISCLAIMER OF OTHER WARRANTIES
THE FOREGOING WARRANTY IS PROVIDED IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. DOGTRA DISCLAIMS ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
Limitation of Remedies
Dogtra’s liability is limited to the cost of repair or replacement of the
Dogtra product under Warranty. Any claim or action to enforce the Warranty
must be commenced within thirty (30) days of the Warranty’s expiration for
your product. Dogtra will not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special,
consequential, or similar damages based on breach of warranty, breach of
contract, negligence, strict tort, or any other legal theory related to Dogtra
and its products. Damages that Dogtra will not be responsible for include, but
are not limited to: loss of income or profits; loss of revenue or savings;
loss of use of the product or associated products; cost of any substitute
products or services; inconvenience, downtime, or any other time; loss of
goodwill; claims of third parties including customers; and damage to property.
Legal Rights May Vary By State or Jurisdiction
The Warranty gives You specific legal rights, and You may also have other
rights which vary by state or jurisdiction. Some states or jurisdictions do
not allow certain limitations of implied warranties or of incidental or
consequential damages or other remedies, so certain of the foregoing
limitations may not apply to You.
If any portion of the Warranty is held by a court to be invalid or
unenforceable, the remaining portions of the Warranty shall remain in full
force and effect and shall in no way be affected or invalidated, and the
invalid or unenforceable portion shall be modified so as to most nearly
achieve the intent of the Warranty.
Product Registration
Dogtra recommends that customers register their products as soon as possible
after purchase. Product registration will facilitate any future warranty
service. You may also receive useful information and updates about your
existing and future Dogtra products. To register your product, visit
www.dogtra.com/product-registration. If your product is not registered with Dogtra, You will be
required to provide a receipt or other proof purchase (as provided above) to
qualify for warranty service.
How to Obtain Warranty Service
Should your Dogtra product require warranty service, please contact Customer
Service by phone or email for a warranty evaluation (see below for contact
information). Upon approval of your warranty work, Dogtra will repair or
replace (at Dogtra’s election) your product without charge for labor or parts.
You are responsible for shipping, including cost, of your product to Dogtra
for warranty service. Dogtra will handle shipping, including cost, of the
repaired or replaced product back to customers in the USA. Dogtra will not be
responsible for shipping, including cost and/or applicable taxes or fees, for
products sent to Canada. Such costs, taxes, or fees will be borne by the
customer.
To register your product, visit www.dogtra.com/product-
registration.
Dogtra Customer Service
12322 Monarch Street, Garden Grove, CA 92841
888-811-9111
repair@dogtra.com
Mon – Fri, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (PST)
© 2021 Dogtra. All rights reserved.
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