TC-Helicon Switch-3 Accessory Pedal Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The TC-Helicon Switch-3 is a durable 3-switch accessory pedal designed to extend the control capabilities of compatible TC Helicon and TC Electronic products. It provides hands-free control over various programmable functions, enhancing live performance and studio workflow.

Typical applications include:

• Harmony Mute activation
• Effect Bypass toggling
• Preset Up/Down navigation
• Looper control (Record, Play, Dub, Stop, Erase)

Figure 1: Top view of the TC-Helicon Switch-3 Accessory Pedal, showing three footswitches labeled 1, 2, and 3.

2. Setup

To set up your TC-Helicon Switch-3 pedal, follow these steps:

1. Connect the Pedal: Use a standard TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) cable to connect the Switch-3 to the designated footswitch input on your compatible TC Helicon or TC Electronic device. The input jack is located on the rear panel of the Switch-3.
2. Power On: Ensure your main TC Helicon/TC Electronic device is powered on. The Switch-3 draws power directly from the connected device, so no separate power supply is typically required for the Switch-3 itself.
3. Device Configuration: Refer to the instruction manual of your specific TC Helicon/TC Electronic device to configure the functions assigned to each of the three footswitches. This configuration is typically done within the settings or menu of the main unit.

Figure 2: Rear view of the Switch-3, highlighting the TRS input for connection to a compatible device.

3. Operating Instructions

Once connected and configured, the Switch-3 provides intuitive, hands-free control. The functionality of each switch (1, 2, 3) is determined by the settings on your main TC Helicon/TC Electronic unit.

• Momentary Action: The footswitches are momentary, meaning they activate a function when pressed and held, or trigger a function with a single press, depending on the host device's programming.
• Common Uses:
  • Switch 1: Often assigned to functions like preset down, looper record/play, or effect toggle.
  • Switch 2: Commonly used for preset up, looper stop, or another effect toggle.
  • Switch 3: Frequently assigned to harmony mute, bypass, or looper clear.

For specific assignments and advanced control options, consult the user manual of your TC Helicon or TC Electronic product.

4. Maintenance

The TC-Helicon Switch-3 is built with a sturdy construction designed for durability. To ensure longevity and optimal performance:

• Cleaning: Wipe the pedal with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Storage: Store the pedal in a dry environment, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
• Cable Care: Ensure the TRS cable is not kinked or strained, as this can damage the cable or the pedal's input jack.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Switch-3 pedal, consider the following:

• No Response from Pedal:
  • Verify the TRS cable is securely connected at both ends (Switch-3 and host device).
  • Ensure the host TC Helicon/TC Electronic device is powered on and functioning correctly.
  • Check the settings on your host device to confirm the footswitches are correctly assigned and enabled.
  • Test with a different TRS cable to rule out cable failure.
• Incorrect Functionality:
  • Review the host device's manual for correct footswitch assignment procedures. Some devices may require specific polarity settings for external footswitches, though the Switch-3 is designed for standard compatibility with TC Helicon products.
  • Ensure no conflicting external controllers or software applications are simultaneously attempting to control the host device, as this can lead to unexpected behavior.

6. Specifications

Figure 3: Product label on the bottom of the Switch-3, displaying model and manufacturing information.

7. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your main TC Helicon or TC Electronic device, or visit the official TC Helicon website. Product registration may be available for extended warranty benefits.

For additional resources and product information, you may visit the TC Helicon Store on Amazon.