NOTE: This unit will only record .WAV files. However, you can download a .mp3 file converter here: GoldWave v5 .mp3 file converter download It is a very easy to use. Just open the sound file in this program, and save it as .WAV, and select “PCM unsigned, 8 bit, mono” in the Attributes section. If you are running Windows, Click here to download WinRAR software (Which is what you will use to open the software itself, below:) For instructions on this download,click here.
NOTE: Use PWM DIRECT DRIVE in the software for this unit (DO NOT USE DAC for Ext.AMP like for the USB5M). NOTE: To adjust volume, use GOLDWAVE for a softer or louder recording.
Q1: What are the "Groups" in the software and how do I use them? A1: The groups are very powerful and make this product very much more ubiquitous. If you want to use the button to trigger different messages (up to 100), use the groups function. How? When you are programming the key with a .wav file, click on "2" in the "Group" column on the left of the software window. Now on line 1 under the "No." column, program your next .wav file. (NOTE: You can stack up to 200 .wav files in each group. These files will play consecutively when the group is triggered, back-to-back nonstop.) Go on to group 3 and continue programming as many messages as you like (within the 75 seconds). Now when you press the key, it will play group one. The next time you press the key, it will play group 2, and so on.
Q2: Does message repeat when it finishes? A2: There are many playback settings that can be selected. The options are as follows: 1) One Shot, Re-triggerable - Plays segment until button is pressed again, then plays next group (if using groups). If nothing is on other group, message starts over and plays until end of message. 2) One Shot Non-Re-triggerable - Plays entire file even if you push the same button during playback. 3) Level Hold, Play 1 cycle - Only plays as long as button is pressed down. Message will stop after one complete play or when button is released, up to one complete cycle. 4) Level Hold play repeat - Same as 3) except message loops until button is released. 5) One Shot, Re-triggerable, repeat - This one is dangerous! Message will loop continuously unless you select a different trigger function (which you can do in the program). 6) Toggle On/Off - Playback stops when button is pressed again. Message will start from beginning when button is pressed a third time.
Q3: If white button is pressed and not released will message repeat? A3: Yes & No. Usually the message will only play once. Button has to be released and pressed again for message to replay - unless you have selected #4 above "Level Hold Play Repeat." In this case, the message will loop until you release the button, then start from the beginning when you press the button again.
Q4: What happens if white button is pressed again during playback of message? A4: This depends on the mode that is selected, see Q1. Some modes stop the message - some start it over.
Q5: Do all the recordings get erased when the batteries are removed? A5: No; it is non-volatile memory. Removal of the batteries will not erase the recordings.
Q6: Should I use the 8bit mono unsigned or 16 bit mono signed? A6: Either one is fine. They will both work and it shouldn't make much difference.
Q7: Why don't I have any sound? A7: Be sure to remove the plastic tab from under the battery, by pulling it out. The plastic tab is to prevent accidental playback during shipping of the module. Also, you may use a small screwdriver to bend the battery terminals down slightly as to be sure the batteries have good contact, especially after you remove the plastic tab.
Q8: How can I make this unit sound better? A8: You can hold the speaker in your hand by making an "O" shape with your finger and thumb with the speaker held firmly inside the "O." Or you can mount the speaker in a box or to a heavier mount like a piece of plywood with a hole in it for the speaker. This decreases the speaker frame vibration and increases the speaker surface vibration which improves the sound quality.
Q9: How can I make this unit louder? A9: You could purchase any of our amplifiers or amplifier kits to use with this unit. Type "amplifier" in the search box and click "Go."
