1. Introduction
The Franklin MDE-1200 is a portable electronic device designed to enhance English language skills. It combines a comprehensive dictionary, a thesaurus, grammar tools, word solvers, and interactive games into a compact unit. This manual provides instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device.
Image 1.1: The Franklin MDE-1200 in operation, displaying its spell checker and dictionary features.
2. Setup
2.1. Battery Installation
The Franklin MDE-1200 requires two (2) AA batteries for operation. To install the batteries:
- Locate the battery compartment cover on the back of the device.
- Slide the cover open in the direction indicated by the arrow.
- Insert two AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as marked inside the compartment.
- Replace the battery compartment cover until it clicks securely into place.
2.2. Powering On/Off
- To power on the device, press the POWER button.
- To power off the device, press and hold the POWER button until the screen turns off. The device may also power off automatically after a period of inactivity to conserve battery life.
3. Operating Instructions
3.1. Dictionary and Thesaurus Functions
The MDE-1200 features an English dictionary with 80,000 headwords and 250,000 definitions, along with a thesaurus containing 15,000 synonyms and 12,000 antonyms.
- To look up a word: Type the word using the keyboard. The device will display definitions and related information.
- To find synonyms/antonyms: After looking up a word, press the THES button to switch to the thesaurus view.
- Spell Correction: The device includes automatic spell correction to assist with typing errors.
Image 3.1: The MDE-1200's LCD screen showing a word definition, highlighting its clear display.
3.2. Grammar Tools
Access various grammar lessons and tools to improve your English proficiency:
- Irregular Verbs: Learn and review common irregular verb conjugations.
- Verb Conjugation: Explore different verb forms.
- Noun/Adjective Inflection: Understand how nouns and adjectives change form.
- Confusables: Distinguish between commonly confused words.
- Vocabulary Banks: Prepare for standardized tests like TOEFL, GRE, SAT, GMAT, and TOEIC.
3.3. Word Solvers
Utilize the built-in word solvers for assistance with puzzles and word building:
- Crossword Solver: Helps find words based on known letters and patterns.
- Anagram Solver: Rearranges letters to form new words.
- Word Builder: Creates words from a given set of letters.
Image 3.2: The MDE-1200 displaying its word solver capabilities, useful for puzzles and learning.
3.4. Interactive Word Games
Engage with various educational games to make learning enjoyable:
- Hangman
- Conjumania
- Flashcards
- Spelling Bee
- Word Train
- Synonym Game
Image 3.3: The MDE-1200 showcasing one of its interactive word games, designed for engaging learning.
3.5. Display and Sound
- Zoomable 3-inch Screen: Adjust the text size for comfortable viewing.
- Adjustable Contrast: Optimize screen visibility in different lighting conditions.
- Keyboard Sound Control: Enable or disable key press sounds as preferred.
4. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device's exterior. Do not use liquid cleaners or abrasive materials.
- Battery Replacement: Replace batteries when the low battery indicator appears or when the device fails to power on. Always use fresh AA batteries.
- Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
5. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device does not power on. | Dead or incorrectly installed batteries. | Replace batteries with fresh AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity. |
| Screen is dim or unreadable. | Low battery or contrast setting is incorrect. | Replace batteries. Adjust screen contrast using the dedicated function. |
| Device displays an error message and shuts down. | Internal software error or hardware malfunction. | Remove and reinsert batteries to perform a soft reset. If the issue persists, contact Franklin customer support. |
| Keyboard input is not registering. | Keyboard malfunction or device freeze. | Try restarting the device. If the problem continues, contact customer support. |
6. Specifications
- Model Number: MDE1200
- Dimensions: 4.76 x 4.72 x 0.87 inches
- Weight: 5 ounces
- Power Source: 2 AA batteries (required)
- Display: Zoomable 3-inch LCD screen with adjustable contrast
- Dictionary Content: 80,000 headwords, 250,000 definitions
- Thesaurus Content: 15,000 synonyms, 12,000 antonyms
7. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Franklin website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Manufacturer: Franklin