OM SYSTEM WS-802
OM SYSTEM Olympus WS-802 Digital Voice Recorder User Manual
Model: WS-802
Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the OM SYSTEM Olympus WS-802 Digital Voice Recorder. It covers device setup, operational procedures, maintenance guidelines, and technical specifications to ensure optimal performance and user experience. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the device.
Key Features
- High-Quality Stereo Recording: Equipped with two internal directional condenser microphones for clear sound capture.
- Ample Storage: 4 GB of internal memory, expandable via a microSD slot (up to 32 GB).
- Direct USB Connection: Built-in USB connector for direct file transfer and battery charging with a computer.
- Voice Balancer Function: Automatically adjusts voice levels to maintain consistent volume regardless of speaker distance.
- Voice Playback Function: Skips non-voice sections during playback for efficient review of recordings.
- Multiple Recording Formats: Supports PCM, MP3, and WMA formats for versatility.
- Noise Cancellation: Reduces unwanted background sounds for clearer audio.
- Calendar Search Function: Easily locate recordings by date.
- Index Marks: Allows setting up to 99 index marks per file for quick navigation.
- Scene Select: Pre-set recording modes optimize settings for various environments (e.g., conference, lecture).
Setup Guide
1. Battery Installation
The WS-802 requires one AAA battery. Ensure correct polarity when inserting the battery.

Image: Rear view of the WS-802 Digital Voice Recorder. This image highlights the battery compartment cover and the integrated USB connector slider. The battery compartment is located on the left side of the back panel, and the USB slider is centrally positioned.
- Locate the battery compartment cover on the back of the device.
- Slide the cover open.
- Insert one AAA battery, matching the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals as indicated inside the compartment.
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
2. Powering On/Off
To power on the device, slide the HOLD/POWER switch located on the side of the recorder upwards. To power off, slide it downwards and hold for a few seconds until the screen turns off. The HOLD function prevents accidental button presses.

Image: Side view of the WS-802 Digital Voice Recorder. This image displays the side panel of the device, featuring the HOLD/POWER switch, headphone jack (EAR), and external microphone input (MIC).
3. Connecting to a Computer (USB Direct)
The WS-802 features a built-in USB connector for direct connection to a computer.
- Locate the USB slider on the back of the device.
- Slide the USB connector out.
- Plug the recorder directly into an available USB port on your computer.
- The device will appear as a removable drive, allowing you to transfer files. The battery will also charge during connection.
Operating Instructions
1. Basic Recording

Image: Front view of the WS-802 Digital Voice Recorder. This image shows the main display screen, the directional pad with an "OK" button, and control buttons including REC, STOP, ERASE, MENU, LIST, and VOL.
- Ensure the device is powered on.
- Press the REC button (red circle) to start recording. The recording indicator will illuminate.
- To pause recording, press the REC button again. Press it once more to resume.
- Press the STOP button to end and save the recording.
2. Playback
- From the main screen, navigate to the desired recording using the directional pad.
- Press the OK button (center of directional pad) to start playback.
- Adjust volume using the VOL button.
- Use the directional pad's left/right arrows to fast-forward or rewind.
- Press STOP to end playback.
Voice Playback: This feature allows the device to skip silent portions of a recording, playing only sections with detected voices. Activate this function through the device's menu settings.
Voice Balancer: This function automatically normalizes the volume of different speakers in a recording, ensuring all voices are audible regardless of their distance from the microphone. Enable this feature in the menu for interviews or meetings.
3. File Management
- Calendar Search: Press the LIST button and navigate to the Calendar view to find recordings by date.
- Index Marks: During recording or playback, press the SCENE/INDEX button to add an index mark. This allows for quick navigation to specific points within a file.
- Erasing Files: Select the file you wish to delete and press the ERASE button. Confirm your selection when prompted.
4. Menu Settings
Press the MENU button to access various settings, including recording mode, microphone sensitivity, noise cancellation, and scene select options.
- Scene Select: Choose from pre-defined recording scenes (e.g., "Meeting," "Lecture," "Dictation") to automatically optimize recording settings for the environment.
- Noise Cancellation: Enable this feature to reduce ambient background noise during recording or playback.
- Recording Format: Select your preferred recording format (PCM, MP3, or WMA) based on quality and file size requirements.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Battery Care: Remove the battery if the device will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage. Replace with a fresh AAA battery when the low battery indicator appears.
- Storage: Store the recorder in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Device does not power on. | Check battery installation and ensure the battery has sufficient charge. Replace the battery if necessary. Ensure the HOLD/POWER switch is in the "POWER" position. |
| Poor recording quality. | Check microphone sensitivity settings. Ensure Noise Cancellation is enabled if recording in a noisy environment. Position the recorder closer to the sound source. Select an appropriate Scene (e.g., "Lecture" for distant speakers). |
| Cannot transfer files to computer. | Ensure the USB connector is fully extended and securely plugged into the computer's USB port. Try a different USB port. Restart the computer and the recorder. |
| Recordings are too quiet or too loud. | Adjust the recording level settings in the menu. Utilize the Voice Balancer function for consistent volume during playback. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | WS-802 |
| Internal Memory | 4 GB |
| Expandable Memory | MicroSD (up to 32 GB) |
| Recording Formats | PCM, MP3, WMA |
| Microphone | Built-In Stereo Directional Condenser Microphones |
| Connectivity | USB Direct, MicroSD, Secure Digital Card |
| Headphones Jack | 3.5 mm |
| Power Source | 1 x AAA Battery (included) |
| Product Dimensions | 3.9 x 1.6 x 0.6 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.81 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Olympus |

Image: Included accessories for the WS-802 Digital Voice Recorder. This image shows a pair of black Olympus-branded earphones with a 3.5mm jack and a single Duracell AAA battery, indicating the power source and audio output options.
Warranty and Support
For information regarding warranty coverage, technical support, or service, please refer to the official OM SYSTEM (formerly Olympus) website or contact their customer service department. Specific warranty terms may vary by region and purchase date.
Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
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