iRobot Roomba 600 Series User Manual

Introduction

Dear Roomba Owner:

Thank you for choosing a new generation iRobot Roomba vacuum cleaning robot. You have just joined a very special community of users (7.5 million worldwide and growing), who are discovering how useful, ideal, and simple it is to have a domestic vacuum cleaner. In fact, owners of these devices tend to grow so fond of them that they give them nicknames.

We are also passionate about our robots. And it's not surprising, as building robots is what we've been dedicated to for our 20 years of unique existence.

You are probably eager to start using your Roomba device right now, but it's worth taking a quick read of this manual first. This way, it will be even easier to use and will save you even more time.

I hope you enjoy many pleasant experiences with your Roomba device, and I thank you on behalf of the entire team for choosing iRobot.

Best regards,
Colin Angle
President, CEO, and Co-Founder, iRobot Corporation

Caring for Your iRobot Roomba

Use it often for the best results. After each use, empty the [dustbin] and clean the [filter]. The [brushes] do a very hard job, so, just like a hairbrush, you should remove them and clear away hair and lint that accumulates around them and under the bearings approximately once a week (refer to the diagrams in the Basic Maintenance section).

To prolong [battery] life, charge it whenever possible and keep your Roomba device connected to the power outlet. When storing it for a long period, remove the [battery] and store it in a cool, dry place.

Safety First: Since the Roomba device contains electrical components, do not submerge it in water or spray water on it. Clean it only with a dry cloth. Before using your device for the first time, consult the important safety instructions at the end of this manual.

First Steps

Before using your Roomba device for the first time, place it upside down and remove the [battery] ring. Use the [Home Base] component to charge the [battery] overnight. Charge the Roomba device for at least 16 hours when using it for the first time.

Preparing the Cleaning Area

Your Roomba device is quite intelligent during its movements, but it needs a little help. Carpet fringes are not a problem, but it is necessary to remove obstacles and loose cables to clear the area. The main purpose of this device is to eliminate dust, dirt, and general debris; avoid wet items such as spilled liquids.

Preparing the Roomba Device

First, install the charging [Home Base]. To keep the Roomba device in a specific area of the house, place a [Virtual Wall]; this will define the cleaning area.

Let's Get Started!

If you have a wireless command center or a remote control, install them. If you do not have either of these components, connect your Roomba device manually:

• Press the CLEAN button once to turn on the device. You will hear a [beep] and the CLEAN button will illuminate.
• Press CLEAN again to start the cleaning cycle.
• If the device is DOCKED TO THE [HOME BASE], press the CLEAN button.
• To stop the cleaning cycle, press the CLEAN button.
• To resume the cleaning cycle, press the CLEAN button again.
• To turn off the device, press and hold the CLEAN button until the light turns off.

Next, step away from your Roomba device and let it do its job. Children and pets are fascinated by the Roomba device. Make sure they know it is not a toy or an intruder. They will get used to the device quickly.

Diagram Description: Shows how to remove the [battery] ring by placing the Roomba upside down. Illustrates the [Home Base] charging station. Depicts preparing the cleaning area by removing obstacles and cables. Shows the Roomba device being placed on its [Home Base].

Cleaning Patterns and Modes

Roomba uses iAdapt™ Responsive Cleaning technology, an advanced and patented system of sensors and software. iAdapt™ technology allows the Roomba device to actively scan its cleaning environment (64 times per second) and offer more than 40 different cleaning modes to clean each room thoroughly.

The 600 series and higher Roomba devices have 2 cleaning modes you can select:

• Cleaning Mode (all models): The Roomba device automatically calculates the room size and adjusts the cleaning time accordingly.
• Spot Mode (all models): The Roomba device moves in a spiral pattern cleaning an area of approximately 1 meter in diameter, and then returns to its starting point. This is a quick, localized, and intense cleaning of specific areas.

Surfaces

The Roomba device cleans wood, carpets, tiles, vinyl, and linoleum, and adapts to different floor types. It automatically detects [stairs] and other drop-offs. The device may get stuck if it encounters rounded edges and may slip on particularly slippery surfaces. Very dark colored floors can block its sensors. The Roomba device is not designed for outdoor use.

Anti-Tangle System

The Roomba device does not get caught on fringes or cords. If it detects a fringe, it will automatically stop its main [brushes] and back away to free itself. You may hear a [click] as the device performs this process.

Virtual Wall® Accessory (Optional for all models)

The Roomba [Virtual Wall] creates an invisible barrier that the device will not cross. This makes it easier to define a specific zone or room and prevent it from getting too close to delicate or hazardous areas.

• Each [Virtual Wall] accessory requires two C alkaline batteries (not included).
• You can use the [Virtual Wall] to block an opening up to two meters. It creates a cone-shaped barrier, so the beam narrows gradually.
• For best results, place the [Virtual Wall] outside the door you wish to block. Aim the arrows on the top towards the area to be blocked.

Manual Virtual Wall

Activate a virtual wall manually at the beginning of the cleaning cycle. It will turn off after 135 minutes. If the power [light] flashes green, it means the batteries need to be replaced soon.

Automatic Virtual Wall

When an Automatic [Virtual Wall] is set in 'AUTO' mode, the power [light] will flash continuously to indicate it is active. When the [battery] level is low, the virtual wall will flash continuously twice to indicate that the batteries need to be replaced. In AUTO mode, the batteries should last approximately six months. To save [battery] power, disconnect the [Virtual Wall].

Diagram Description: Shows the Roomba cleaning in a spiral pattern (Spot Mode). Illustrates the [Virtual Wall] accessory creating a barrier. Shows the direction of the [Virtual Wall]'s beam.

Base

Place the [Home Base] on a flat, stable surface, against a wall. Ensure the [Home Base] is located at least 1.20 meters from any [stairs] and that your Roomba device's path is clear so it can reach it.

When the Roomba device has finished cleaning, it will return to its [Home Base] to charge. The [Home Base] [light] will stop flashing and turn green when the Roomba device has docked correctly. The Roomba device's CLEAN button will then flash amber to indicate it is charging and will turn green when the Roomba device is fully charged and ready to clean again.

Remote Control (Optional accessory for all Roomba device models)

It is used like a TV remote control. Point and click to activate or deactivate the Roomba device, to guide it, and to control functions and the SPOT button.

• First, install 2 AA [batteries] (not included).
• If you use it near a [Virtual Wall] or the [Home Base], it may get confused and not function correctly.
• If it gets lost, try looking for it next to the sofa or under it. (Well, this usually works with the TV remote control.)

Diagram Description: Shows the Roomba's [Home Base] placement requirements (clear path, distance from [stairs]). Depicts the Roomba remote control with buttons labeled: SPOT, CLEAN/power, Directional Buttons, [unlabeled button].

Charging and Storing Batteries

The Roomba device operates with a rechargeable [battery]. Before using the Roomba device for the first time, you must charge the [battery] overnight.

• Ensure the Roomba device's [battery] is fully charged before each cleaning cycle.
• To maximize [battery] life, always keep your Roomba device connected to the power outlet.
• When the Roomba device is on the [Home Base], ensure the power [light] is on.
• If you connect the Roomba device to the [Home Base]/power outlet after it has been disconnected for a long period, the device will begin a special 16-hour refresh charge, and the CLEAN button [light] will flash rapidly. If possible, do not interrupt the refresh charge.
• When storing it for a long period, remove the [battery] and store it in a cool, dry place. When the device is connected to the [Home Base], the [battery] should always remain inside.

Charging Lights

The CLEAN button [light] indicates that the [battery] is charging.

Removing the Battery (600 Series and higher)

If you will not be using the Roomba device for a long period, it is recommended to remove the [battery]. To access the [battery], turn the Roomba device upside down and remove the side [screw] ? and the 4 [screws] ? holding the bottom cover of the Roomba device. For more detailed instructions, visit global.irobot.com or download a detailed user manual.

Programming the Roomba Device (650 Series and higher)

Programming allows you to tell the Roomba device exactly when to clean, even when you are not home.

Setting the Time

1. Press and hold CLOCK.
2. While holding CLOCK, use the DAY, HOUR, and MINUTE buttons to set the time.
3. Release CLOCK. The Roomba device will emit a [beep] and the clock will briefly illuminate, indicating the time has been set.

12/24 Hour Format

1. To switch between views, press and hold the DAY and MINUTE buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds until the Roomba device beeps and the clock briefly illuminates, indicating the clock format has been changed. The Roomba device's clock will revert to the default 12-hour (AM/PM) format when the Roomba device's [battery] is disconnected or nearly discharged.

Setting a Schedule

You can program the Roomba device to clean once a day up to a maximum of seven times a week. You must set the time before configuring a schedule.

1. Press and hold SCHEDULE.
2. While holding SCHEDULE, use the DAY, HOUR, and MINUTE buttons to set the schedule.
3. Release SCHEDULE. The Roomba device will emit a [beep] to indicate the schedule has been set.

Viewing a Schedule

1. Press and hold SCHEDULE.
2. While holding SCHEDULE, press the DAY button to cycle through the scheduled cleaning times.
3. Release SCHEDULE.

Deleting a Schedule

1. Press and hold SCHEDULE.
2. While holding SCHEDULE, press the DAY button to cycle through the scheduled cleaning times.
3. When the scheduled cleaning time you wish to delete appears on the Roomba device's display, press and hold the DAY button to delete the scheduled cleaning time. The Roomba device will [beep] to indicate it has been deleted.
4. Release SCHEDULE.

Modifying a Schedule

1. Press and hold SCHEDULE.
2. While holding SCHEDULE, press the DAY button to cycle through the scheduled cleaning times.
3. When the scheduled cleaning time you wish to modify appears on the Roomba device's display, press and hold the HOUR and MINUTE buttons to make your desired changes.
4. Release SCHEDULE.

Great Performance with Little Maintenance

For your Roomba device to function correctly, it's a good idea to perform small [maintenance] tasks frequently. Specifically, keep the following in mind:

• Look for the green and yellow parts; these parts can be removed and cleaned.
• You should empty the [dustbin] and clean the [brushes] after each use, if possible.
• Excessive hair can cause permanent damage to the Roomba device or the floor. Therefore, clean the bearings and brush ends regularly.

For more information and to order accessories, visit global.irobot.com

Basic Maintenance

Emptying the Dustbin

The [dustbin] should be emptied after each use.

3. Slide the included cleaning tool over the Roomba device's [brush] bristles to remove hair.

Cleaning the Filter

Regular cleaning is important, and the [filter] should be replaced after two months of regular use.

Push down and remove the [filter] for cleaning.

Cleaning the Brushes and Associated Parts

1. Lift the two yellow tabs to remove the [brush] guard.
2. Remove and clean the [brushes], and the brush ends and bearings.
3. To clean the side [brush], use a small [Phillips screwdriver] ? to remove the center [screw] ?. Remove the [brush], clean it, and replace it.

Cleaning the Front Wheel

1. Pull the front [wheel] firmly to remove it.
2. Remove dirt from inside the [wheel] cavity.
3. Remove the [wheel] from its housing and clean it. Push firmly to remove the axle and clear any hair around it.
4. Reassemble all parts when finished. Ensure the [wheel] is correctly reinstalled.

Cleaning the Cliff Sensors

Clean the openings of the four cliff [sensors] with a clean, dry cloth.

Diagram Description: Shows how to empty the [dustbin]. Shows how to remove and clean the [filter]. Shows how to remove the [brush] guard. Shows how to clean the main [brushes]. Shows how to remove and clean the side [brush]. Shows how to remove the front [wheel]. Shows how to clean the front [wheel] cavity and axle. Shows the location of the cliff [sensors].

Troubleshooting Light

Occasionally, something may go wrong. But don't worry, the device has an early warning system. The Roomba device will emit a sound similar to 'uh-oh' and alert you to the problem. Additionally, the troubleshooting [light] will flash. To repeat an error message, press the CLEAN button.

For more information, download a detailed user manual from global.irobot.com. You can also contact your local dealer, whose contact information is provided on this page.

Problems During Operation

Problems During Charging

Language Selection Mode

The Roomba device can communicate troubleshooting messages in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish, Polish, Russian, Portuguese, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese. If you've always wondered how to say 'Tap Roomba's bumper to clean' in Finnish, now's your chance to find out.

Setting the Language

The default language is English. To change it:

1. Turn off the Roomba device.
2. Press and hold the CLEAN button until the Roomba device beeps and speaks the currently selected language.
3. Release CLEAN.
4. Press CLEAN repeatedly until you hear the language you wish to select.
5. Press and hold the CLEAN button to turn off the Roomba device and confirm the chosen language.

Software Reset

Press and hold the two buttons above and below CLEAN simultaneously for 20 seconds. This will erase all scheduled cleaning times, reset the clock, and can resolve some software issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the Roomba device's side brush sometimes spin backward?

If it gets tangled with cables or carpet fringes, the side brush may spin slowly or backward to free itself. This can also happen on long-pile carpets. If it occurs at other times, you should clean the brush.

Why does the Roomba device sometimes make a loud noise?

If the Roomba device's brushes encounter cables or carpet fringes, the brushes will quickly change direction to free themselves. This action generates a loud noise. If you hear a loud noise at any other time, you should clean the main brushes.

Why does the Roomba device slow down when approaching certain obstacles?

The device usually identifies obstacles quickly, allowing it to slow down and gently touch the obstacle with its bumper before changing direction. However, sensitivity may be reduced on very dark surfaces or due to objects less than 5 centimeters wide. Therefore, it is recommended to keep stray bottle caps, toy parts, and hamsters well away.

Important Safety Instructions

CAUTION: THERE ARE NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL FOR REPAIR WORK. USE ONLY STANDARD EUROPEAN POWER OUTLETS (220V-240V) FOR CHARGING. Always exercise caution when using the Roomba device. To reduce the risk of injury, always observe the safety precautions during setup, use, and maintenance of your equipment.

General

• Read all safety and operating instructions before operating the Roomba device.
• Keep safety and maintenance instructions for future reference.
• Pay attention to all warnings on the Roomba device, battery, AC adapter, and user manual.
• Follow all operating and usage instructions.
• Do not attempt to repair the Roomba device. Leave all non-routine maintenance and repair tasks to our service personnel.

Using the Roomba Device

• The Roomba device is intended for indoor use only.
• Do not use the Roomba device on wet surfaces or where it may be submerged in or come into contact with water.
• Before using this device, pick up objects such as clothing, loose papers, blind pulls or cords, power cables, and any other fragile items. If the device runs over a power cord and pulls it, an object could be pulled down, such as a shelf.
• The Roomba device is not a toy. Do not sit on or stand on this device. Supervise pets and young children when the Roomba device is operating.
• Keep body parts, fingers, feet, hair, and loose clothing away from moving parts and brushes.
• Do not use this device to pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or embers.
• Do not use this device to pick up liquids.
• Do not use this device without the particle dustbin.
• If the room to be cleaned has a balcony, place a physical barrier to prevent the device from accessing the balcony and ensure safe operation.
• Always remove the battery before transporting or storing it for a long period.

Charging and Battery Pack of the Roomba Device

• Connect the Roomba device to the type of power supply indicated on the label. If you are unsure of the exact type of power supplied to your home, contact your local appliance dealer or electric company.
• Use only standard EUROPEAN power outlets (220V-240V AC). The product cannot be used with any type of power converter. Such use will immediately void the warranty.
• Use only the charger AC adapter provided by the manufacturer to recharge the device.
• Do not use a charger AC adapter with a damaged cord or plug.
• Charge the device indoors only.
• Never handle the charger AC adapter with wet hands.
• Remove the device's battery before disposal or recycling. Do not discard the battery pack in the trash. Contact your local waste disposal agency for the address of the nearest recycling center.

What if I Need More Help or Accessories?

Visit global.irobot.com to:

• Order accessories for your robot
• Get tips and tricks to improve your robot's performance
• Read answers to questions
• Download a detailed product manual
• Contact your local iRobot dealer

Declaration of Conformity

Roomba Vacuuming Robot and Accessories

Manufacturer: iRobot Corporation, 8 Crosby Drive, Bedford, MA 01730, USA.

Declares that the Roomba vacuum cleaning robot, battery chargers for models 11296 and 11267, and the base comply with the requirements of:

The Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC, as amended by Directive 93/68/EEC, and the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 89/336/EEC, as amended by Directive 92/31/EEC.

It is also declared that the Roomba vacuum cleaning robot and its accessories comply with the following European approved standards:

• CE Marking Year: 2004
• EN 60335-1:2002 + A11:2004 Household and similar electrical appliances – Safety. Part 1 – General requirements
• EN 60335-2-2:2003 Household and similar electrical appliances – Safety. Part 2 – Particular requirements for vacuum cleaners and water-suction cleaning appliances
• EN 60335-2-29:2002 Household and similar electrical appliances – Part 2-29 – Particular requirements for battery chargers
• EN 55014-1:2000 + A1:2001 + A2:2002 Electromagnetic compatibility – Requirements for household appliances, electric tools and similar apparatus – Part 1: Emission
• 55014-2:1997 + A2:2002 Electromagnetic compatibility – Requirements for household appliances, electric tools and similar apparatus – Part 2: Immunity – Family of products standard

Equipment acoustic information, disposition - 3. German Law on Safety of Equipment and Products (GPSGV), the highest recorded sound pressure level is 70 dB (A) maximum.

Low voltage and electromagnetic compatibility tests performed by: TUV Rheinland of North America

© 2007-2012 iRobot Corporation, 8 Crosby Drive, Bedford, MA 01730. All rights reserved. iRobot, Roomba, and Virtual Wall are registered trademarks of iRobot Corporation. Dirt Detect, iAdapt, Home Base, and Lighthouse are trademarks of iRobot Corporation. [00526.0412.v1]

US Patent Numbers: D556,961 | 6,594,844 | 6,690,134 | 6,809,490 | 6,883,201 |6,956,348 | 7,155,308 | 7,173,391 | 7,196,487 | 7,288,912 | 7,332,890 | 7,388,343 | 7,429,843 | 7,430,455 | 7,441,298 | 7,448,113 | 7,459,871 | 7,567,052 | 7,571,511 | 7,579,803 | 7,636,982 | 7,663,333 | 8,087,117. Other patents pending.