Isobel ZF-172
Isobel USB Bluetooth 5.0 Transmitter Receiver User Manual
Model: ZF-172
Product Overview
The Isobel USB Bluetooth 5.0 Transmitter Receiver (Model: ZF-172) is a versatile 4-in-1 mini wireless audio adapter designed to add Bluetooth capabilities to a wide range of audio devices. It functions as both a transmitter and a receiver, supporting 3.5mm audio connections and direct USB audio transmission. This device allows you to wirelessly stream audio from non-Bluetooth sources to Bluetooth headphones or speakers, or enable non-Bluetooth speakers to receive audio from Bluetooth-enabled devices.

Figure 1: Isobel USB Bluetooth 5.0 Transmitter Receiver (Model: ZF-172)
Package Contents
- 1 x Isobel USB Bluetooth 5.0 Transmitter Receiver (Model: ZF-172)
- 1 x 3.5mm Audio Cable
- 1 x User Manual
Key Features
- Bluetooth 5.0 Technology: Ensures stable and efficient wireless audio transmission.
- 4-in-1 Functionality: Supports Transmitter (TX) mode, Receiver (RX) mode, USB Audio Transmission (TX), and USB Audio Reception (RX).
- One-Button Mode Switch: Easily toggle between Transmitter and Receiver modes.
- USB Power Supply: Powered directly via USB, eliminating the need for internal batteries.
- Wide Compatibility: Connects to TVs, PCs, CD/DVD players, MP3/MP4 players, PS4 game consoles, headphones, speakers, car/home stereo systems, smartphones, and tablets.
Setup and Operation
Powering the Device
The Isobel USB Bluetooth 5.0 Transmitter Receiver is powered via its USB connection. Plug the device into any standard USB port (5V power supply) such as a USB wall adapter, car charger, laptop, or TV USB port. The device does not contain an internal battery and requires continuous power to operate.

Figure 2: Continuous Power Supply Reliability via USB
Switching Modes (TX/RX)
The device features a single button for switching between Transmitter (TX) and Receiver (RX) modes. After the Bluetooth adapter is powered on, press this button to toggle between modes:
- Transmitter (TX) Mode: The indicator light will be red.
- Receiver (RX) Mode: The indicator light will be blue.
Note: After switching from TX to RX mode, there may be a 3-second delay before it can switch back to TX mode. This is normal operation.

Figure 3: Easily Switch Modes with a Single Button
Transmitter (TX) Mode Operation
In TX mode, the device transmits audio from non-Bluetooth sources to Bluetooth headphones or speakers. The indicator light will be red.
- Connect Audio Source: Plug one end of the 3.5mm audio cable into the audio output port of your non-Bluetooth device (e.g., TV, PC, CD/DVD player, MP3/MP4 player) and the other end into the 3.5mm AUX port of the Isobel adapter.
- Power On: Ensure the Isobel adapter is plugged into a USB power source. The indicator light will flash red quickly.
- Pairing: Turn on your Bluetooth headphones or speaker and put them into pairing mode. The adapter will automatically search for and connect to nearby Bluetooth audio devices. Once connected, the red indicator light will remain solid.
- USB Audio Transmission (TX): For devices like PC or PS4 game consoles that support USB audio output, you can plug the Isobel adapter directly into the USB port. No 3.5mm audio cable is needed in this scenario. The adapter will wirelessly transmit audio to your Bluetooth headphones or speakers.

Figure 4: Bluetooth Audio Transmitter Mode (TX)

Figure 5: USB Direct Audio Transmission (Output)
Receiver (RX) Mode Operation
In RX mode, the device receives audio from Bluetooth-enabled sources (e.g., smartphone, tablet, Bluetooth TV/PC) and transmits it to non-Bluetooth headphones, speakers, or car/home stereo systems. The indicator light will be blue.
- Connect Audio Output Device: Plug one end of the 3.5mm audio cable into the 3.5mm AUX port of the Isobel adapter and the other end into the audio input port of your non-Bluetooth headphones, speakers, or stereo system.
- Power On: Ensure the Isobel adapter is plugged into a USB power source. The indicator light will flash blue quickly.
- Pairing: On your Bluetooth-enabled device (smartphone, tablet, etc.), search for Bluetooth devices and select "ZF-1695" (or similar) to pair. Once connected, the blue indicator light will remain solid.
- USB Audio Reception (RX): For non-Bluetooth speakers with a USB port that supports audio input, you can plug the Isobel adapter directly into the speaker's USB port. No 3.5mm audio cable is needed. The speaker will then be able to receive audio wirelessly from your Bluetooth-enabled device.

Figure 6: Bluetooth Audio Receiver Mode (RX)

Figure 7: USB Direct Audio Transmission (Input)
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause / Solution |
|---|---|
| Device does not power on. | Ensure the USB power source is active and providing 5V power. Try a different USB port or power adapter. |
| Cannot pair with Bluetooth device. |
|
| No audio or poor audio quality. |
|
| Mode switch button is unresponsive. | After switching from TX to RX mode, there is a 3-second delay before it can switch back to TX mode. Wait a few seconds and try again. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Isobel |
| Model Number | ZF-172 |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.0 |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, 3.5mm AUX, USB |
| Operating Modes | Transmitter (TX), Receiver (RX) |
| Power Source | USB (5V) |
| Transmission Distance | Up to 33ft / 10m (barrier-free) |
| Item Dimensions (L x W x H) | 1.3 x 0.7 x 0.3 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.124 ounces |
| Color | Black |
Important Notes
- A single adapter cannot transmit and receive audio simultaneously; it functions only as a separate receiver or transmitter.
- Only one device can be connected at a time.
- Phone calling is not supported.
- Cannot achieve true stereo sound.
- The 3.5mm audio cable is used for audio transfer, except for PCs, PS4s, and speakers that support USB flash drives for direct USB audio.
- Connecting the audio cable and USB port to the same device may cause noise. Consider alternative power methods if this occurs.
- When pairing with Bluetooth headphones/speakers, turn off Bluetooth on nearby devices to prevent interference with the pairing process.
- In any mode, a long press of the function button can clear the current pairing connection and initiate a new search for pairing.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the product packaging or contact Isobel customer service through the retailer where the product was purchased. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.
Legal Disclaimer: Must be at least 18 & over to purchase.
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