Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your Olympus VN-8500PC DNS Digital Voice Recorder. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the device and keep it for future reference. This digital voice recorder is designed for high-quality audio recording and playback, featuring 1 GB of flash memory and WMA format support.
Product Overview

Figure 1: Front view of the Olympus VN-8500PC DNS Digital Voice Recorder. The image displays the device's screen, which shows recording status, time, and battery level. Below the screen are the main control buttons: STOP, REC, a circular navigation pad with OK/MENU at its center, ERASE, FOLDER/INDEX, and SCENE buttons. The top of the device has a microphone (MIC) and earphone (EAR) jack. The speaker grille is visible at the bottom.
The Olympus VN-8500PC DNS is a compact digital voice recorder equipped with a 1.61-inch display. It features dedicated buttons for recording, stopping, erasing, and navigating through files and menus. The device supports WMA audio format and offers 1 GB of internal flash memory for storing recordings.
Setup
1. Battery Installation
The device is powered by two AAA batteries (not included). To install:
- Locate the battery compartment cover on the back of the recorder.
- Slide the cover open in the direction indicated by the arrow.
- Insert two AAA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as marked inside the compartment.
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
2. Initial Power On and Date/Time Setting
Upon first power-on or after battery replacement, you may need to set the date and time.
- Press and hold the REC button to power on the device.
- If prompted, use the navigation buttons (up/down) to adjust the year, month, day, hour, and minute.
- Press the OK/MENU button to confirm each setting and move to the next.
- Once all settings are confirmed, the device will enter standby mode.
Operating Instructions
1. Recording
- To start recording, press the REC button. The REC indicator light will illuminate, and the display will show the recording time.
- To pause recording, press the REC button again. Press it once more to resume.
- To stop recording, press the STOP button. The recording will be saved automatically.
- Scene Selection: Press the SCENE button to select different recording modes (e.g., Lecture, Conference, Meeting). This optimizes microphone sensitivity for various environments.
2. Playback
- In stop mode, use the navigation buttons (left/right) to select the desired file.
- Press the OK/MENU button (play button) to start playback.
- During playback, use the navigation buttons (left/right) for fast rewind/fast forward.
- Press the STOP button to stop playback.
3. Erasing Files
- Select the file you wish to erase using the navigation buttons.
- Press the ERASE button.
- Confirm the erase operation when prompted on the display by selecting "Yes" and pressing OK/MENU.
4. Folder Management
The recorder allows you to organize your recordings into different folders.
- Press the FOLDER/INDEX button to switch between folders (e.g., A, B, C, D).
- Recordings made will be saved in the currently selected folder.
5. Connecting to a Personal Computer
The Olympus VN-8500PC DNS can be connected to a computer via USB 2.0 for file transfer.
- Ensure the recorder is powered off.
- Connect the recorder to your computer using a standard USB cable (Type A to Mini-B, typically).
- The recorder will appear as a removable disk drive on your computer.
- You can then drag and drop files to and from the recorder.
- Always safely eject the device from your computer before disconnecting the USB cable.
Maintenance
1. Cleaning
- Wipe the exterior of the recorder with a soft, dry cloth.
- Do not use liquid cleaners, solvents, or abrasive materials, as these can damage the finish or internal components.
2. Storage
- Store the recorder in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- If storing for an extended period, remove the batteries to prevent leakage.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device does not power on. | Batteries are dead or incorrectly inserted. | Replace batteries with new ones, ensuring correct polarity. |
| Cannot record. | Memory is full; device is in playback mode. | Delete unnecessary files or transfer them to a computer. Ensure the device is in stop mode before pressing REC. |
| Poor recording quality. | Microphone too far from source; incorrect scene setting; high background noise. | Move closer to the sound source. Adjust the SCENE setting. Record in a quieter environment. |
| Computer does not recognize the device. | Loose USB connection; device not powered off before connecting. | Ensure USB cable is securely connected. Disconnect and reconnect the device after powering it off. Try a different USB port. |
Specifications
- Model: VN-8500 PC DNS
- Memory: 1 GB Flash Memory (approx. 1024 MB)
- Recording Format: WMA
- Display: 1.61 Inches
- Power Source: 2 x AAA Batteries
- Battery Life: Up to 51 Hours (recording)
- Hardware Interface: USB 2.0
- Headphones Jack: 3.5 millimeters
- Compatible Devices: Personal Computer
- Material: Plastic
- Dimensions: 15.7 x 13.31 x 4.5 cm
- Weight: 69 g (without batteries)
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Olympus website or contact your local Olympus customer service center. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For further assistance, you may visit the Olympus Global Website.





