Widex MicroVox TX2 User Instructions
Widex MicroVox TX2 is a wireless FM transmitter that enhances speech understanding in noisy environments by sending the speaker's voice directly to your hearing aid. It features a built-in microphone, 360-degree sound pickup, and compatibility with various audio sources, including TVs, music players, and computers. With its compact design and rechargeable battery, it's easy to take with you wherever you go.
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MicroLink system
User’s instructions for
MicroLink MLX FM receiver
HandyMic TX3 FM transmitter
MicroVox TX2 FM transmitter
Contents
Introduction · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 3
The FM system and how it works · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 6
The MicroLink receiver · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 8
How the MicroLink works · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 8
Description · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 9
Attaching and removing the MicroLink · · · · · · · · · · · · · 11
Operating the MicroLink receiver · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 13
The HandyMic transmitter · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 15
How the HandyMic works · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 15
Description · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 17
HandyMic accessories · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 19
Microphone switch modes · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 20
Instructions for use of the HandyMic · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 22
1. The companion technique · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 23
2. The interview technique · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 25
3. The lecture technique · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 26
4. The audio-visual technique · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 27
Recharging the HandyMic · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 30
The MicroVox Transmitter · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 32
How the MicroVox works· · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 32
Description · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 34
MicroVox accessories · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 36
Connecting the microphone · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 38
The battery · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 39
Inserting the battery · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 41
How to switch on the MicroVox · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 42
Connecting audio-visuals · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 43
Getting Started · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 44
Operating Range · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 44
Maintenance · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 46
Daily maintenance · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 46
Troubleshooting· · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 49
Warranty · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 55
Notes · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 55
2
Introduction
At Widex, our overall mission is to give people with a hearing loss the same opportunities for communication as people with normal hearing. A
Widex hearing aid, combined with the MicroLink, goes a long way towards achieving this goal by ensuring optimal listening comfort and speech understanding. In difficult listening situations, in particular, the MicroLink gives people with a hearing loss new possibilities.
In order to get the full benefit of your MicroLink
FM system, please read these instructions carefully. They contain a description of all parts of the system as well as a section on maintenance and troubleshooting.
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The MicroLink system is based on technology that makes it possible to manufacture an FM radio receiver so tiny that it can be connected to a hearing aid. The receiver’s power consumption is very low, so it can be powered by the hearing aid’s own battery.
The MicroLink FM system effectively overcomes the three fundamental obstacles to optimum communication: distance, noise and echo and – especially – the combination of these factors. The system is completely cordless and therefore very easy to use.
Now you can concentrate on the message behind what is being said, rather than using your energy on trying to make out the words. Practically speaking, with your MicroLink your ears are right next to the FM transmitter. This creates an optimum listening situation with maximum signal strength and a minimum of noise and echo.
4
If used and cared for properly, your MicroLink system – used in combination with your Widex hearing aid – will give you many pleasurable listening opportunities. The MicroLink system is a precision instrument that can be damaged if knocked or bumped. Therefore it should be handled with care and we recommend that you keep it in the leather case when you do not use it.
5
The FM system and how it works
An FM system is a radio system in which signals are sent via radio waves from the transmitter to the receiver. “FM” stands for Frequency Modulation, a technical term for the way radio signals are generated. FM transmission ensures advanced reception quality, free of noise and distortion.
The MicroLink FM system consists of two basic components:
• A microphone with an FM transmitter to pick up the sound source. The transmitter sends radio signals to one or more receivers.
• An FM receiver which is connected to the hearing aid.
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The MicroLink FM system from Widex is available in two versions – with a HandyMic transmitter or with a MicroVox transmitter. Both versions use the MicroLink receiver. Transmission power is very low and involves no physiological side effects. The maximum operating range is about 15 meters (45 feet).
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The MicroLink receiver
How the MicroLink receiver works
The MicroLink is the FM receiver that receives radio signals from either the HandyMic or
MicroVox transmitter. The MicroLink can only be used on the frequency / channel number for which it was produced and which is identified by the channel number and colour code.
The MicroLink Europlug fits all behind-the-ear hearing aids that have an FM shoe with Europlug connection. An FM shoe is available for all LOGO,
SENSO and other digital instruments from Widex.
The FM signal is received by a small built-in antenna. The radio signal is transformed to a signal which is amplified in the hearing aid in the same manner as the hearing aid’s own microphone signal. Therefore no special (re)fitting of your hearing aid is needed.
3.
6.
2.
1.
5.
8
4.
Description
1. FM shoe.
2. MicroLink receiver.
3. Europlug.
4. On/Off and function switch
(M – FM – M+FM).
5. Channel identification
The number and colour code indicate which frequency is being used. The number and colour of the receiver must be identical to the number and colour of the transmitter.
6. Serial number. We recommend that you write down this number.
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Attaching and removing the MicroLink
Attaching the MicroLink to your hearing aid is a two-step process. Firstly, the MicroLink is connected to the FM shoe, which, in turn, is connected to the hearing aid.
Place the MicroLink on the FM shoe. Insert the short, thick pin of the
MicroLink plug into the corresponding hole in the
FM shoe.
Push the
MicroLink plug into the shoe until a “click” is felt.
The shoe with the MicroLink receiver is then connected to the hearing aid. Please check the section on “Audio input” in the user’s instructions for your hearing aid for information on how to attach and remove the audio shoe.
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Note: Please remember to exchange the solid cover for the perforated cover on the side of the hearing aid.
Reverse the procedure to remove the MicroLink.
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Operating the MicroLink receiver
The switch on the receiver can be set to three different functions: a. In position m the receiver is switched off and does not consume battery power. Only the hearing aid’s own microphone is active. It is therefore not necessary to remove the
MicroLink from your hearing aid when not using the FM system.
b. In position l only FM is received (the hearing aid’s microphone is dampened by 20 dB).
c.
In position ll both FM and the signals from the hearing aid’s microphone are received.
Please remember to also switch on the transmitter (MicroVox or HandyMic).
The hearing aid’s M – MT – T switch modes will retain their original functions when the
MicroLink is connected. This will result in a number of possibilities as shown in the overview.
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MicroLink switch
Hearing aid switch m
Off
M
MT
T
Hearing aid microphone
Hearing aid microphone + telecoil
Telecoil l
FM reception
FM reception
FM reception + telecoil
Telecoil ll
Combined
FM and hearing aid microphone
FM reception + hearing aid microphone
FM reception + hearing aid microphone + telecoil
Telecoil
Please note – When switched on, the MicroLink consumes battery power. Therefore, when not in use the MicroLink should be switched off or removed from the hearing aid.
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The HandyMic transmitter
How the HandyMic works
The HandyMic is a low power radio transmitter with a built-in multidirectional microphone system. The transmitter sends signals from the microphone to the MicroLink receiver. Please note that the transmitter and the receiver must be on the same channel/frequency.
The HandyMic can be used as a hand-held microphone without the external antenna. The distance to the MicroLink receiver should normally not exceed 1.5 meters (4.5 feet). At this range the
HandyMic’s stand serves adequately as an antenna. If the HandyMic’s operating range is between 1.5 metres (4.5 feet) and 15 meters (50 feet), for example at a lecture, you must use the accompanying external antenna.
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The integrated multidirectional microphone can be adjusted to pick up signals in three different modes:
1. The omnidirectional microphone picks up sound signals from all directions.
2. The directional microphone primarily picks up sound signals from an angle of 45° in front of the microphone.
3. The super-directional microphone primarily picks up sound signals from an angle of 20° in front of the microphone.
Select the required mode on the microphone switch depending on the distance to the speaker, and the surrounding noise. This switch also serves as the on/off switch.
Remember to switch off the transmitter when you do not use it.
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The HandyMic can also be connected directly to the headphone outlet of your radio or TV by means of the accompanying audio cord. The transmitter is automatically switched on even when it is in the off position when there are incoming audio signals. The audio cord then also functions as an antenna.
A built-in rechargeable battery powers the
HandyMic. A fully charged battery will last approximately one day. It can be recharged every night with the battery charger.
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Description
2.
1.
3.
6.
8.
4.
5.
7.
1. Microphone mode switch and on/off switch.
Switch symbols: l HandyMic off m Omnidirectional
Directional
Super-directional.
2. Adapter socket.
3. Battery indicator.
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4. Audio socket for connection to audio-visual equipment such as radio and TV.
5. Microphone stand. Functions also as a short range antenna.
6. Microphone opening.
7. Compartment with cover containing the frequency module. The frequency module is already in place in the compartment on the underside of the HandyMic. The HandyMic’s frequency module has a channel number which must match the channel number of the
MicroLink receiver in order to function. The frequency module can be replaced so that the
HandyMic is able to transmit on another channel.
8. On the underside: Serial number, approval label, and label for your name and address. We recommend that you write down the serial number in these instructions.
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HandyMic accessories
The HandyMic comes with the following accessories:
1. Charger / power supply.
2. External antenna.
3. Audio cord for radio, TV, etc. with a 3.5 mm jack and an additional 6 mm adapter jack.
4. Neck cord.
5. Leather case.
1.
5.
3.
4.
2.
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Microphone switch modes
Omnidirectional setting
The omnidirectional setting is ideal for situations with some noise or disturbance when you want to listen to the people around you. At small meetings, for example, the
HandyMic can be placed on the table in a central position relative to the people present.
Directional setting
The directional setting can be used in situations when several people are speaking at the same time. The directional mode is ideal in such sitwhom you are having a conversation. Surrounding conversation and ambient noise are thus subdued.
uations since the microphone can be pointed towards the person with
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Super-directional
To further enhance the directional mode to a specific person, switch to super-directional mode.
Only speech and sounds that come precisely from the direction in which the microphone is pointing will be amplified. Ambient noise and speech are significantly suppressed.
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Instructions for use of the HandyMic
The HandyMic can be used for different listening situations:
1. Speaking with another person face to face.
2. Speaking with several people at the same time.
3. Attending a lecture or a class.
4. Listening to the radio or TV directly through the audio output or having a telephone conversation (a telephone connecting cord can be acquired from a supplier of assistive listening devices).
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1. The companion technique
This technique is used when you carry on a conversation in the street, in a car, on a bus, etc. Here, your companion can either hold the HandyMic in his or her hand, slip it into a shirt pocket or wear it on the accompanying neckcord. Speech will be transmitted directly to the MicroLink receiver on the hearing aid. The external antenna should always be utilised when another person has the HandyMic.
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The antenna can be connected in two positions
(see figs.). Always keep the antenna cord untangled.
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2. The interview technique
This technique is ideal for difficult listening situations when you wish to listen to different speakers. This is done by pointing the HandyMic towards the person you want to hear – just as a news reporter would.
When you use the interview technique, irrelevant talk and noise are effectively suppressed by setting the HandyMic in the directional or superdirectional mode.
In quiet surroundings, choose the omnidirectional mode and place the HandyMic in a central position (relative to the people you want to listen to).
The external antenna is probably not needed when you use the interview technique as the range between the MicroLink receiver and the
HandyMic does not exceed 1.5 m (4.5 feet). As a rule of thumb, the microphone stand antenna is sufficient when you hold the HandyMic in your hand or place it within an arm’s length from yourself.
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3. The lecture technique
This technique is used when you want to hear a lecturer, a teacher, or another person as distinctly as if you were standing beside him. The lecturer should either have the
HandyMic in the neckcord or wear it in front of him. Select a microphone mode according to the situation. For example, if the speaker is standing still with the HandyMic placed on a table in front of him – choose the directional mode. The external antenna should be connected to the HandyMic in such situations.
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4. The audio-visual technique
With the accompanying audio cord, the HandyMic can be connected directly to your TV, radio, telephone or other audio-visual equipment such as a compact disc player, cassette player, or a loudspeaker installation provided the equipment is fitted with a socket for a headphone jack (3.5
mm jack).
This allows you to get an optimum signal directly from the TV, for example, without having to turn up the volume. On some TV models, the loudspeaker is turned off when the audio cord is used.
Alternatively, the HandyMic can be connected to the video recorder by a suitable lead. If necessary, your radio/TV dealer can modify your TV so the sound is not turned off when the audio cord is used.
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When transmitting audio-input signals, the
HandyMic should be switched off. It is automatically switched on when a signal is received via the audio cord. It is automatically switched off when no signal has been received for 50 seconds. We recommend that you recharge your HandyMic when using radio, TV or similar equipment.
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The audio cord that comes with the HandyMic fits most standard headphone sockets. If the audio cord jack does not fit your audio-visual equipment, an adapter jack can be purchased from your hearing healthcare professional. When connected to the HandyMic, the audio cord also serves as an antenna.
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Recharging the HandyMic
The HandyMic has a rechargeable NiMH (Nickel
Metal Hydride) battery. This is the most environmentally safe battery available. It does not contain heavy metals and has a high capacity and a long life. A fully charged battery will last approximately 13 hours. A red light indicator (BAT) flashes when the battery needs recharging.
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1. Plug the charger into the charger socket.
2. Connect the charger to the mains.
3. A continuous red light on the HandyMic indicates that the unit is being recharged.
4. Recharging a drained battery takes approximately 13 hours. Remove the charger cord and the HandyMic is ready for use.
Please note:
• The battery cannot be overcharged.
• The HandyMic can be recharged while in use with radio, TV or similar equipment.
• We recommend that you replace the battery when it can no longer be recharged to a full day’s capacity. Please contact your hearing healthcare professional.
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The MicroVox Transmitter
How the MicroVox works
The MicroVox is a lowpower radio transmitter primarily intended for educational environments.
The teacher wears it on a belt with a connected microphone clipped on to his or her clothes. The transmitter sends microphone signals to the
MicroLink receiver which must be working on the same channel number as the transmitter.
A 1.5 V battery type AA powers the MicroVox. You can use an ordinary alkaline battery or a rechargeable battery. An alkaline battery comes as standard. It has an operating time of approximately 33 hours. A small light indicator starts flashing when the battery is running low.
Remember to switch off the transmitter when you do not use it.
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The MicroVox can be connected to the headphone socket of a radio or TV by an audio cord. Audio connection can be established in two ways; you can use the socket for the microphone or you can use an alternative audio input with a socket for a
2.5 mm jack plug.
Note: When connected to the microphone socket, the audio cord also serves as an antenna. The
MicroVox will only function properly with this antenna connection.
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Description
1. Microphone and audio socket. This connection also serves as the antenna connection.
2. On/Off switch.
3. Alternative audio socket (2.5 mm jack) for connection to audio-visual equipment.
4. Channel number printed on a coloured background. The colour indicates the last digit of the channel number. (See page 9, item 5.)
5. Light indicator for battery power level.
6. Battery cover (bottom of the unit).
7. Clip with name label and any approval labels
(rear of the unit).
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4.
5.
1.
2.
3.
7.
6.
35
MicroVox accessories
The MicroVox comes with the following items:
1. Clip-on microphone.
2. Alkaline battery.
3. Leather case.
1.
2.
3.
36
The following items are optional:
• Charger and cover for the MicroVox.
• Power supply (adapter).
• Audio cord for radio, TV, etc. with a 3.5 mm jack socket.
• A 6 mm jack plug adapter to fit a 3.5 mm jack socket.
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Connecting the microphone
Insert the microphone plug into the microphone socket on the MicroVox transmitter. Please note the thickness of the pins – the plug can only be inserted one way. Use only an original Widex microphone.
Important: The microphone connecting cord also serves as an antenna. In order to function properly there must be no loops or knots in the cord.
The clip-on microphone is a standard item that should be attached externally to clothing 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) under the speaker’s mouth.
38
The battery a.
b.
The MicroVox is supplied with a 1.5 V alkaline battery size AA as standard. To place the battery in its compartment, slide away the cover underneath the MicroVox. The cover has a smaller detachable panel available in two types: a. A charge panel for rechargeable batteries b. A solid panel for ordinary batteries
39
The MicroVox comes with the panel for ordinary batteries. A charger with a rechargeable battery can be provided on request. In this case, the charge panel that comes with the charger must be used.
Please note: You have to remove the charge panel to remove the battery.
40
Inserting the battery a. Open the battery compartment by sliding the cover in the direction of the arrow.
b. Insert a new battery. A mark inside the compartment shows the correct battery position.
Warning: Never leave batteries where young children or pets can reach them. If swallowed, seek medical advice at once.
41
How to switch on the MicroVox
Off
On
Switch on the MicroVox by pushing the on/off switch downwards until a red mark is visible. If the “Low Bat.” flashes, the battery requires replacement or recharging.
42
Connecting audio-visuals
The MicroVox has two connection alternatives.
The socket for connecting the microphone can also be used to connect TVs and radios. In both cases the cord works as an antenna for the transmitter.
The audio cord is optional and can be ordered from your hearing healthcare professional. A cord with a 2.5 mm jack is necessary for the other audio socket. The socket is intended for use when signals from both the microphone and the audio-visual equipment are required.
Note: There must always be a cord connected to the three pin socket, as it also functions as the antenna.
43
Getting Started
Using the HandyMic may at first require an extra effort because in doing so, you are showing everyone that you have a hearing loss. Try to ignore this. Explain your situation. It may be a good idea to practise on your family or friends. Everyone will probably accept speaking into a microphone when they hear that it gives you the possibility of following a conversation on terms equal to – or perhaps even better than – people with normal hearing. So, never hesitate to ask someone to carry and talk into the microphone.
Operating Range
Whether you use the HandyMic or the MicroVox transmitter, the MicroLink system has an operating range of 7-15 meters (20-50 feet) in a normal meeting room, classroom, dining or living room when the external antenna is used. Without the external antenna connected to the HandyMic, the microphone stand serves as an antenna. But in this case, the operating range is limited to a maximum of 1.5 meters (4.5 feet).
44
The range of the MicroLink system depends primarily on the circumstances for radio wave propagation (building construction, metal walls, doorways etc.). The operating range is greatest in open country and least inside steel buildings. Signal fall-out with increased noise may occur in the vicinity of the maximum range. Disturbances from other kinds of transmitting equipment may also affect reception.
Reception quality is also dependent on the condition of the transmitter’s battery. When the battery indicator light flashes, the HandyMic or
MicroVox will still function for some time, but at reduced intensity.
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Maintenance
The maintenance advice applying to hearing aids also applies to the MicroLink FM system. Below you will find tips that we recommend you to follow to allow your FM system to function optimally.
Daily maintenance
It is a good idea to check daily that everything is functioning normally.
1. Listen to the hearing aid alone.
2. Listen to the hearing aid and the MicroLink with FM+M switched on and the transmitter switched off.
3. Listen to the MicroLink with both FM and the transmitter switched on.
4. Listen to the MicroLink with both FM+M and the transmitter switched on.
5. Remove any dirt from the MicroLink, hearing aid, and earmoulds with a cloth or tissue.
46
The MicroLink receiver
Your hearing aid’s power consumption varies depending on whether the MicroLink receiver is turned off or on and therefore it is not easy to know when the battery will run out. Make sure you have one or more batteries in reserve at all times. Change the battery in your hearing aid regularly, and when you suspect that it is running low.
If the battery is low, the MicroLink receiver will stop functioning before the alarm on your hearing aid starts to beep. If your hearing aid does not feature a battery alarm, it will still function some time after FM reception has been cut off.
HandyMic and
MicroVox with rechargeable battery
If your transmitter has a rechargeable battery, it is a good idea to charge it daily. If the transmitter is not in use for a period of time, store it with a fully recharged battery.
47
MicroVox with an ordinary battery
If your transmitter uses an ordinary battery, it is a good idea to change it regularly. With an alkaline battery, the unit’s capacity is approx. 30 hours. When the battery is running low, the “low battery” light flashes as a signal for you to change the battery. It can, however, be functional for some time, but do not wait until the battery is completely dead. The signal quality received continually deteriorates as the battery’s power is reduced.
Periodic maintenance
It is a good idea to have your MicroLink system checked periodically, for example every six months, by a professional.
48
Troubleshooting
Do not despair if your MicroLink system is not functioning properly. You can probably solve most problems that may arise yourself. Below you will find some helpful tips for general troubleshooting.
In order to identify the defect, listen to your
MicroLink system as recommended in the section on daily maintenance.
49
Symptom
No FM signal from the receiver, or sound distortion.
Cause
The contact points on the side of the hearing aid are covered by the blind plate.
The mode switch of either the hearing aid or the MicroLink receiver is in an incorrect position.
The FM shoe is not correctly connected.
The hearing aid’s contact points are not clean.
Solution
Exchange the plate with the one that comes with the FM shoe.
Check the position of both mode switches.
Make sure that a
“click” is felt when you connect the shoe to the hearing aid. The shoe must have contact with all of the hearing aid’s contact points.
Clean the contact points with a soft cloth.
50
Symptom
No FM signal from the receiver, or sound distortion.
Cause
The transmitter’s battery is running low.
Solution
Make sure that the battery has sufficient power. Check the low battery indicator.
No audio signal even though the signal from the transmitter is OK.
The microphone is off (HandyMic) or not connected
(MicroVox).
The earmould or the tubing is blocked.
The audio cord is not correctly connected.
Switch on the
HandyMic transmitter or test the MicroVox to ensure that the microphone jack is correctly connected.
Make sure that the earmould is correctly connected to the hearing aid. Check for wax or dirt in the earmould tubing.
Make sure that the jack for the HandyMic and for the audio equipment is correctly connected.
The audio cord or jack is defective.
Check for visible damage to the cord or jack.
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Symptom
The transmitter cannot be recharged.
Cause Solution
No power supply.
Check that the mains outlet is switched on.
The power outlet is not correctly connected.
Check that the charger is connected correctly to the mains outlet and that the charger’s plug and cable are intact.
If none of these tips work, please contact your hearing healthcare professional for further information.
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Warning
1. Do not use two transmitters on the same frequency in the same area.
2. Do not try to disassemble your hearing aid or the MicroLink FM system as this will make the guarantee void.
3. Do not clean the system with water or other fluids.
4. Do not try to charge ordinary (non-rechargeable) batteries.
5. Do not tangle or knot the antenna.
6. Do not expose the system to hair spray.
7. Do not use the MicroLink receiver together with another person’s hearing aid unless you are certain that the hearing aid fits the FM shoe.
8. Do not use the MicroLink on aeroplanes or in hospitals without permission.
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9. Note that what is being said into the transmitter can possibly be picked up and heard via other receivers.
10. Note that you may possibly overhear other radio communication when using the MicroLink receiver.
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Warranty
A one-year international warranty is provided.
The warranty covers all material and manufacturing defects. Defects arising from improper handling or repairs carried out by an unauthorised party are not covered by this warranty.
Notes
55
WIDEX
T&W, DK-3500 Vaerloese www.widex.com
P!FM0!0501!201L$ Printed by FB / 08-00
P FM0 0501 201
Public link updated
The public link to your chat has been updated.
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