1. Product Overview
The David Clark H10-13.4 Aviation Headset is a bestselling passive aviation headset renowned for its comfort, performance, and reliability. Designed for pilots and aviation enthusiasts, it provides clear communication and effective passive noise attenuation in demanding cockpit environments. This manual provides essential information for the proper use and maintenance of your headset.
Figure 1: David Clark H10-13.4 Aviation Headset. This image displays the headset with its distinctive light green earcups, black headpad, and microphone boom. The dual plugs for aircraft connection are visible.
2. Key Features
- Super Soft, Double Foam Head Pad: Provides enhanced comfort during extended use.
- New Comfort Gel, Undercut Ear Seals: Designed for a comfortable fit and effective passive noise attenuation.
- Universal Flex Boom: Allows for precise and stable microphone placement.
- Exclusive M-7A Noise-Cancelling Microphone: Ensures clear voice transmission by reducing background noise.
- Low-Profile Volume Control Knob with Detent Settings: Offers easy and precise audio level adjustment.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of aviation environments.
- Dual Aviation Plugs: Standard connectors for compatibility with most aircraft communication systems.
3. Setup
The H10-13.4 headset is designed for straightforward setup in most general aviation aircraft.
- Inspect Headset: Before each use, visually inspect the headset for any signs of damage to the cables, plugs, ear seals, or microphone boom.
- Connect Plugs: Locate the two standard aviation plugs on the headset cable. The larger plug (PJ-068) is for the headphone audio, and the smaller plug (PJ-055) is for the microphone. Insert these plugs firmly into the corresponding jacks in the aircraft's audio panel.
- Adjust Headband: Adjust the headband slides on both sides to ensure a snug yet comfortable fit on your head. The double foam head pad should rest comfortably on the crown of your head.
- Position Microphone: Position the universal flex boom microphone approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch from your lips. Ensure it is not directly in front of your mouth to avoid breath noise, but close enough for clear voice pickup.
- Volume Control: Set the low-profile volume control knob on the earcup to a comfortable listening level.
4. Operating Instructions
Once properly set up, operating the David Clark H10-13.4 is intuitive.
- Communication: Use the aircraft's push-to-talk (PTT) button to transmit on the radio. Release the PTT to receive.
- Intercom: For internal communication within the aircraft, ensure the intercom system is active. The M-7A noise-cancelling microphone will provide clear voice pickup for both radio and intercom use.
- Volume Adjustment: Adjust the volume knob on the earcup as needed to maintain clear audio reception from the aircraft's communication system.
- Microphone Care: Avoid bending the microphone boom excessively or repeatedly in the same spot, as this can damage the internal wiring.
5. Maintenance
Proper maintenance will extend the life and performance of your David Clark H10-13.4 headset.
- Cleaning:
- Wipe down the earcups and headband with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Clean the gel ear seals with mild soap and water, then wipe dry. Do not use alcohol-based cleaners as they can degrade the material.
- The microphone windscreen can be gently cleaned with a damp cloth.
- Storage: Store the headset in a clean, dry place, preferably in a protective case, to prevent dust accumulation and physical damage. Avoid extreme temperatures.
- Cable Care: Avoid sharp bends or kinks in the cables. Do not pull on the cables to disconnect the plugs.
- Ear Seal Replacement: Over time, ear seals may harden or crack. Replace them periodically to maintain comfort and noise attenuation performance. Genuine David Clark replacement parts are recommended.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No audio in headset | Loose or incorrect plug connection; aircraft audio panel off; headset volume too low. | Ensure plugs are fully inserted into correct jacks. Check aircraft audio panel power and settings. Increase headset volume. |
| Poor microphone transmission | Microphone not positioned correctly; faulty microphone; aircraft intercom/radio issue. | Adjust microphone to 1/8-1/4 inch from lips. Check aircraft's intercom/radio settings. Test with another known-good headset if possible. |
| Excessive background noise | Improper ear seal fit; damaged ear seals; microphone too far from mouth. | Adjust headset for a tight seal around ears. Inspect and replace worn ear seals. Reposition microphone closer to lips. |
| Headset uncomfortable | Headband or ear seal adjustment; worn out padding. | Readjust headband for optimal fit. Consider replacing head pad or ear seals if they are compressed or damaged. |
If problems persist after attempting these solutions, contact David Clark customer support or a certified aviation electronics technician.
7. Specifications
- Model Name: H10-13.4
- Brand: David Clark
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Headphones Jack: Dual PJ-068 (Headphone) and PJ-055 (Microphone)
- Microphone: M-7A Noise-Cancelling Electret
- Ear Placement: Over Ear
- Noise Control: Passive Noise Reduction (PNR)
- Material: Gel Ear Seals, Foam Head Pad
- Cable Feature: 5 Feet long
- Item Weight: Approximately 15.9 ounces (450 Grams)
- Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 5 x 9 inches
- Included Components: Ear Cushions (pre-installed)
- UPC: 610708018988, 033583001713, 013424010210
8. Warranty and Support
The David Clark H10-13.4 Aviation Headset typically comes with a 5-year Guarantee from the manufacturer, covering defects in materials and workmanship. For warranty claims, technical support, or to purchase replacement parts, please contact David Clark, Inc. directly through their official website or customer service channels.
Legal Disclaimer: All sales final.
For the most up-to-date warranty information and service procedures, always refer to the official documentation provided with your product or visit the manufacturer's website.
