VTech DM226/DM226-2 Safe & Sound Digital Audio Monitor User Manual
Welcome to your new VTech Safe & Sound Digital Audio Monitor. This manual provides all the necessary information for installation, operation, and troubleshooting.
Getting Started
What's in the Box
The package typically includes one or two parent units and one baby unit, along with power adapters and a battery pack for the parent unit. Specific contents may vary (e.g., 1 set for DM226, 2 sets for DM226-2).
Install the Battery
The parent unit operates on a rechargeable battery or AC power. For continuous monitoring, use both simultaneously. The battery alone provides short-term cordless operation.
Notes: Use only the supplied battery pack (BT186692, 2.4V 400mAh Ni-MH). If the unit will not be used for an extended period, remove the battery to prevent leakage.
Installation: Ensure the battery pack is inserted with the 'THIS SIDE UP' marking facing upwards into the battery compartment on the parent unit. Warnings are provided against burning or puncturing batteries.
Replace the Battery
To replace the battery, pull out the battery compartment cover, lift out the old battery, and install the new one following the installation steps.
Connect and Charge the Battery
Connect the baby unit and parent unit to their respective AC power adapters and plug them into wall outlets. Ensure electrical outlets are not controlled by wall switches.
Notes: Use only the supplied power adapters. Keep all power adapter cords out of the reach of children.
Charge the Parent Unit Battery
Upon first connection and battery installation, the parent unit powers on automatically. The battery icon indicates the charging status. A full charge takes approximately 11 hours. Charging time is longer when the parent unit is on; turn it off for faster charging.
| Battery Indicator | Status | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Icon is off | No battery installed or abnormal battery detected | Install the parent unit battery. Charge without interruption (at least 30 minutes). |
| Screen displays LOW BATTERY and flashing light | Battery has very little charge | Charge without interruption (about 30 minutes). |
| Battery icon becomes solid | Battery is fully charged | Connect to AC power when not in use to keep it charged. |
Before Use
Note: This baby monitor is intended as an aid and is not a substitute for proper adult supervision.
Test Your Baby Monitor
It is recommended to test the baby monitor before initial use and periodically thereafter. Ensure both units are powered on. Speak towards the baby unit's microphone; the sound should be heard on the parent unit, and visual sound indicators should light up.
Caution: For hearing protection, maintain a distance of at least 6.5 feet (2 meters) between the parent and baby units. If high-pitched noise occurs, move the parent unit further away or lower its volume.
Note: If the parent unit displays 'NOT LINKED' and flashes, move the parent unit closer to the baby unit (while maintaining the minimum distance) or check power connections.
Tip: If you cannot hear sounds from the baby unit, increase the parent unit's speaker volume.
Positioning the Baby Monitor
Caution: Keep the baby unit out of the baby's reach and never place it inside the baby’s crib or playpen.
- Place the baby unit more than 3 feet (1 meter) away from your baby.
- Place the parent unit more than 2 meters (6.5 feet) away from the baby unit.
Caution: If high-pitched screeching noise occurs, ensure units are more than 6.5 feet (2 meters) apart or turn down the parent unit's volume.
Operating Range: The monitor operates up to 1,000 feet (300 meters) outdoors or 160 feet (50 meters) indoors. Actual range may vary due to environmental conditions and obstructions.
Baby Unit Overview
The baby unit features:
- 1: Night Light Button: Press to turn the night light on or off.
- 2: Night Light Indicator: Shows when the night light is active.
- 3: On/Off Button: Press to power on (power light illuminates). Press and hold to power off (power light extinguishes).
- 4: PAGE Button: Press to initiate or stop paging the parent unit.
- 5: Microphone: Captures sounds from the baby's environment.
- 6: Volume Up Button: Increases the speaker volume.
- 7: Volume Down Button: Decreases the speaker volume.
- 8: Speaker: Outputs sound.
- 9: Power Jack: Connection port for the AC adapter.
Parent Unit Overview
The parent unit includes:
- 1: Microphone: For two-way talk functionality.
- 2: On/Off Button: Press and hold to power the screen on or off. In a menu, press to return to the idle screen.
- 3: MENU/ Button: Press to enter the menu when idle. Press to return to the previous screen or the idle screen when in a menu.
- 4: Visual Sound Indicator: Displays sound levels (1-3 green lights for moderate, additional red lights for high sounds like crying) and speaker volume settings (1-3 green lights for levels 1-3, additional red lights for levels 4-5).
- 5: LCD Panel: Displays information and status.
- 6: Battery Level Indicator: Light is on when charging, flashes when battery is low, and is off when no battery is installed or an abnormal battery is detected.
- 7: TALK Button: Press and hold to talk to the baby unit. Release to stop talking.
- 8: SELECT Button: Used to choose menu items or save settings.
- 9: Volume Up Button: Increases speaker volume or scrolls up in menus.
- 10: Volume Down Button: Decreases speaker volume or scrolls down in menus.
- 11: Power Jack: Connection port for the AC adapter.
- 12: Speaker: Outputs sound.
- 13: Belt Clip: For convenient carrying.
- 14: Battery Compartment Cover: Provides access to the battery.
Parent Unit Display Icons
Understand the icons on your parent unit's display:
- Connection Status: Icons [Signal bars] indicate signal strength (strong, moderate, weak). A flashing icon means the link is lost.
- Night Light: [Moon icon] indicates the baby unit's night light is turned on.
- Sound Alert: [Sound wave icon] indicates the sound alert feature is enabled. It flashes when loud sounds are detected.
- Vibration Alert: [Vibration icon] indicates the vibration alert feature is enabled. It flashes when loud sounds are detected.
- Mute: [Muted speaker icon] indicates the volume is turned off.
- Battery Status: [Battery icon] animates during charging, displays solid when fully charged, and flashes when the battery is low or charging has failed. No icon appears if no battery is installed or an abnormal battery is detected.
Parent Unit Display Screen Messages
- LINKED: The connection between the parent and baby units is active.
- LOW BATTERY: The parent unit's rechargeable battery needs charging.
- NOT LINKED: The connection between the units has been lost for over 10 seconds.
- PAGING: The baby unit is attempting to locate idle parent units.
- SAVED: Your selected setting has been successfully saved.
- SEARCHING: The parent unit is out of range of the baby unit, or the baby unit is powered off.
- TALK: The parent unit is currently transmitting audio to the baby unit.
- TALKBACK: Another parent unit is transmitting audio to the baby unit.
Using the Baby Monitor
Powering Units On/Off
Baby Unit: Press the power button to turn it on (power light illuminates). Press and hold the power button to turn it off (power light extinguishes).
Parent Unit: Press and hold the On/Off button to power the screen on or off.
Note: Both units power on automatically when connected to AC power or when the parent unit has a battery installed.
Adjusting Speaker Volume
Baby Unit: Use the Volume Up [+] or Volume Down [-] buttons on the baby unit.
Parent Unit: Use the Volume Up [+] or Volume Down [-] buttons on the parent unit. Volume can be adjusted from Level 1 to Level 5, or turned off. The default volume is Level 3. When the volume is set to off, the [Muted speaker icon] is displayed.
Adjusting Voice-Activated (VOX) Sensitivity
This feature allows you to choose whether to hear sounds from the baby unit constantly or only when sounds exceed a certain threshold. You can adjust the baby unit's microphone sensitivity using the parent unit.
VOX Sensitivity Level Table:
| Display | Sensitivity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| HIGHEST | High sensitivity | The parent unit speaker is constantly on, and you will hear all sounds, including background noises, from the baby’s room. |
| HIGH | High VOX sensitivity | The parent unit speaker turns on for soft babbling and louder sounds. It remains quiet when the baby sleeps soundly. |
| MEDIUM | Medium VOX sensitivity | The parent unit speaker turns on for loud babbling and louder sounds. It remains quiet when the baby makes soft sounds. |
| LOW | Low VOX sensitivity | The parent unit speaker turns on for crying and louder sounds. It remains quiet when the baby makes soft sounds. |
| LOWEST | Low sensitivity | The parent unit speaker turns on for loud crying or screeching sounds. It remains quiet when the baby makes soft sounds. |
To Adjust VOX Level:
- Press the MENU button on the parent unit when it is not in use.
- Use the [+/-] buttons to select VOX LEVEL, then press SELECT.
- Use the [+/-] buttons to choose the desired VOX sensitivity level.
- Press SELECT to confirm your selection. The screen will display SAVED and you will hear a confirmation tone.
Note: The baby unit must be turned on to access the VOX Level menu on the parent unit.
Sound Alert
If enabled, the parent unit will beep when the baby unit detects sounds that trigger the red light on the visual sound indicator. The sound alert is preset to OFF.
To Enable Sound Alert:
- Press the MENU button on the parent unit.
- Use the [+/-] buttons to select SOUND ALERT, then press SELECT.
- Use the [+/-] buttons to choose ON or OFF.
- Press SELECT to confirm your selection. The screen will display SAVED and you will hear a confirmation tone.
Note: The sound alert setting is independent for each parent unit.
Vibration Alert
If enabled, the parent unit will vibrate when the baby unit detects sounds that trigger the red light on the visual sound indicator. The vibration alert is preset to OFF.
To Enable Vibration Alert:
- Press the MENU button on the parent unit.
- Use the [+/-] buttons to select VIBE ALERT, then press SELECT.
- Use the [+/-] buttons to choose ON or OFF.
- Press SELECT to confirm your selection. The screen will display SAVED and you will hear a confirmation tone.
Notes: Each time you set the vibration alert to ON, the parent unit vibrates briefly after pressing SELECT. The vibration alert setting is independent for each parent unit.
Nightlight
You can turn the night light on or off using either the baby unit or the parent unit.
Using the Baby Unit: Press the [Night Light Button] to turn the night light on or off.
Using the Parent Unit:
- Press the MENU button on the parent unit.
- Use the [+/-] buttons to select NIGHTLIGHT, then press SELECT.
- Use the [+/-] buttons to choose ON or OFF.
- Press SELECT to confirm your selection. The screen will display SAVED and you will hear a confirmation tone.
Notes: The [Moon icon] appears on the parent unit when the night light is on. The baby unit's night light operates even if the parent unit battery is low or the parent unit is turned off. If the parent unit loses its link, the night light icon on the parent unit LCD will disappear.
Language Selection
You can select the language for all screen displays (English, French, or Spanish). The default language is English.
To Change Language:
- Press the MENU button on the parent unit.
- Use the [+/-] buttons to select LANGUAGE, then press SELECT.
- Use the [+/-] buttons to choose ENGLISH, FRANCAIS, or ESPANOL.
- Press SELECT to confirm your selection. The screen will display SAVED and you will hear a confirmation tone.
Note: The language setting is independent for each parent unit.
Set Default
This feature restores all settings to their factory defaults. Restoring defaults on one parent unit will also reset shared settings, such as the VOX sensitivity level, for other parent units.
To Reset to Default:
- Press the MENU button on the parent unit.
- Use the [+/-] buttons to select SET DEFAULT, then press SELECT.
- Use the [+/-] buttons to choose YES or NO.
- If you choose YES, press SELECT to confirm. The screen will display SAVED and you will hear a confirmation tone. If you choose NO, press SELECT to confirm, and the previous menu will be displayed.
Talk to the Baby Unit
You can broadcast messages from a parent unit to the baby unit. If you have two parent units, both can be used simultaneously to talk to the baby unit.
Press and hold the TALK button on the side of the parent unit. The screen will display TALK when the voice connection to the baby unit is established. Speak towards the microphone on the parent unit; your voice will be broadcast to the baby unit and any other parent units.
Notes: When one parent unit is talking, its audio is also broadcast to the other parent unit. However, sounds from the baby unit cannot be transmitted to the parent units during this time. If the parent unit's speaker volume was turned off before talking, it will reset to the default volume level after the talk session ends.
Find/Page the Parent Unit
Use this feature to locate misplaced parent units.
Press the PAGE button on the baby unit. All idle parent units will ring and display PAGING.
To end the paging sound, press any key on the parent unit or press the PAGE button on the baby unit.
Notes: Paging will ring all parent units, even if their speaker volume is set to OFF. The baby unit cannot page a parent unit that is turned off, out of range, or currently in a talk session.
General Product Care
To maintain the product's performance and appearance:
- Avoid placing the unit near heating appliances or devices that generate electrical noise (e.g., motors, fluorescent lamps).
- Do not expose the product to direct sunlight or moisture.
- Avoid dropping the product or treating it roughly.
- Clean the unit with a soft, dry cloth.
- Do not immerse the parent or baby unit in water or clean them under a tap.
- Do not use cleaning sprays or liquid cleaners.
- Ensure the baby unit and parent unit are dry before reconnecting them to the power supply.
Storage
If the baby monitor will not be used for an extended period, remove the rechargeable battery from the parent unit. Store the parent unit, baby unit, and adapters in a cool, dry place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Why does the baby monitor not respond normally? Try disconnecting power to both units, removing and reinstalling the parent unit batteries, waiting a few minutes, reconnecting power, and then turning both units on. Allow up to one minute for synchronization.
- Why doesn't the screen of the parent unit turn on? The rechargeable battery may be depleted, or the parent unit may not be connected to power. Connect the AC adapter to the parent unit and plug it into a wall socket.
- Why doesn't the POWER light of the baby unit turn on? The baby unit may not be connected to power. Connect the baby unit to its AC adapter.
- Why does the baby monitor produce a high-pitched noise? The units might be too close to each other. Ensure the parent unit and baby unit are more than 6.5 feet (2 meters) apart.
- Why does the parent unit react too quickly to other sounds? The baby unit may be detecting ambient sounds. Adjust the VOX sensitivity level to a lower setting or lower the speaker volume on the parent unit.
- Why don't I hear a sound or my baby cry? The parent unit's volume may be set too low. Press the Volume Up button. You might also have set a low VOX sensitivity level; adjust this setting as described in the VOX sensitivity section.
- Why does the parent unit beep? The sound alert feature may be enabled, and sound has been detected from the baby unit. Alternatively, the baby unit might be out of range, or the parent unit's battery may have insufficient charge.
- Why can't I establish a connection, or why is the connection lost intermittently? The baby unit may be out of range. Move the parent unit closer to the baby unit, maintaining at least 6.5 feet (2 meters) distance. Other electronic products can cause interference; try placing your monitor further away from devices like wireless routers, cellular telephones, and computers.
Important Safety Instructions
When using your equipment, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury:
- Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.
- Adult setup is required.
- This product is intended as an aid and is not a substitute for responsible adult supervision.
- This product is not intended for use as a medical monitor.
- Do not use this product near water (e.g., near bathtubs, sinks, swimming pools, or in wet basements/showers).
- CAUTION: Use only the specified batteries (rechargeable battery pack BT166342/BT266342 for the parent unit). Do not dispose of batteries in fire, as they may explode. Dispose of used batteries according to RBRC® seal information.
- Use only the included adapters. Incorrect adapter polarity or voltage can damage the product. The baby and parent unit adapters both have an output of 6V DC 400mA.
- Power adapters are designed for vertical or floor mount orientation; prongs are not designed to hold the plug in place if plugged into a ceiling, under-the-table, or cabinet outlet.
- For pluggable equipment, the socket-outlet should be installed near the equipment and easily accessible.
- Unplug the product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners; use a damp cloth.
- Unplug power cords before replacing batteries.
- Do not cut power cords to replace plugs, as this creates a hazardous situation.
- Do not place anything on the power cords and do not install the product where cords may be walked on or crimped.
- Operate the product only from the indicated power source type. Consult your dealer or local power company if unsure.
- Do not overload wall outlets or use extension cords.
- Do not place the product on unstable surfaces like wobbly tables or shelves.
- Ensure adequate ventilation. Do not block openings in the product's casing, as this can lead to overheating. Never place the product near or over a radiator or heat register.
- Never insert objects into the product's slots, as they may touch dangerous voltage points or cause short circuits. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.
- To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not disassemble the product. Take it to an authorized service facility. Opening or removing parts may expose you to dangerous voltages.
- Test sound reception every time you turn on the units or move components.
- Periodically examine all components for damage.
- Be aware of potential privacy loss when using public airwaves; conversations may be intercepted by other devices.
- Supervise children to ensure they do not play with the product.
- The product is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience, unless they are supervised or instructed by a person responsible for their safety.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Cautions
- Use and store the product at temperatures between 32°F (0°C) and 104°F (40°C).
- Do not expose the product to extreme cold, heat, or direct sunlight. Do not place it near a heating source.
- Batteries should not be exposed to excessive heat, such as direct sunlight or fire.
- Ensure the baby unit and adapter cord are always out of the baby's reach, at least 3 feet (1 meter) away from the baby or crib, to prevent strangulation hazards.
- Never place the baby unit inside the baby’s crib or playpen. Do not cover the baby unit or parent unit with anything like a towel or blanket.
- Other electronic products may cause interference. Install your monitor as far as possible from wireless routers, radios, cellular telephones, intercoms, televisions, personal computers, kitchen appliances, and cordless telephones.
Precautions for Users of Implanted Cardiac Pacemakers
For digital cordless devices: Keep wireless devices at least six inches (15 cm) from the pacemaker. Do not place wireless devices directly over the pacemaker (e.g., in a shirt pocket) when it is turned on. Studies have not identified risks to bystanders with pacemakers from other persons using wireless devices.
Electromagnetic Fields (EMF)
This VTech product complies with all standards regarding electromagnetic fields (EMF). When handled properly and according to the instructions in this manual, the product is safe to use based on current scientific evidence.
The RBRC® Seal
The RBRC® seal on the nickel-metal battery indicates VTech's voluntary participation in a program to collect and recycle these batteries at the end of their useful life. This provides an alternative to discarding them in municipal waste. Contact 1 (800) 8 BATTERY® for information on Ni-MH battery recycling and disposal restrictions.
FCC and IC Regulations
This equipment complies with FCC Part 15 for Class B digital devices, providing reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. It generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy. If interference occurs, try reorienting the antenna, increasing separation between equipment and receiver, connecting to a different circuit, or consulting a dealer/technician.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules and Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standards. Operation is subject to two conditions: no harmful interference, and acceptance of any received interference. Changes not expressly approved by the responsible party for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
FCC RF Exposure: The baby unit is tested for compliance with FCC RF radiation exposure limits for uncontrolled environments, requiring a minimum distance of 8 inches (20 cm) from persons. The parent unit's transmitter and antenna should be held at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) from your face. Body-worn operation has been tested for FCC RF exposure guidelines.
IC Compliance: This product meets applicable Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada technical specifications and complies with Canadian requirement CAN ICES-3(B)/NMB-3(B).
RF Radiation Exposure Statement: The baby unit complies with FCC and Industry Canada RF radiation exposure limits for uncontrolled environments.
California Energy Commission (CEC) Battery Charging Testing Mode
This baby monitor meets CEC regulations for energy consumption. The CEC battery charging testing mode is activated during charging, even if the parent unit is paired to the baby unit.
Limited Warranty
VTech warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for ONE (1) YEAR from the date of purchase, when installed and used normally. This warranty applies to consumers in the United States and Canada.
VTech's Obligation: VTech will repair or replace, at its option, any Materially Defective Product with new or refurbished parts or products. Repaired or replacement products are covered for 90 days from shipment or the remainder of the original warranty, whichever is longer.
Exclusions: The warranty does not cover damage from misuse, accident, improper installation, unauthorized repair, signal conditions, non-VTech accessories, altered serial numbers, commercial use, or products purchased/used outside the USA/Canada. Charges for installation, setup, or system adjustments outside the unit are not covered.
Obtaining Service: For service in the USA, visit www.vtechphones.com or call 1 (800) 595-9511. For Canada, visit www.vtechcanada.com or call 1 (800) 267-7377. Before calling, review the user manual.
Required for Service: Return the entire original package and contents, a description of the malfunction, a valid proof of purchase (sales receipt with model and date), your name, mailing address, and telephone number.
Other Limitations: This warranty is the complete agreement. VTech disclaims other warranties. State/provincial laws may provide additional rights. VTech is not liable for indirect or consequential damages.
Note: Retain your original sales receipt as proof of purchase.
Technical Specifications
- Frequency Control: Crystal controlled PLL synthesizer
- Transmit Frequency: Baby unit: 1921.536-1928.448 MHz; Parent unit: 1921.536-1928.448 MHz
- Channels: 5
- LCD: 35 (x) x 21.2 (y) mm B&W LCD
- Nominal Effective Range: Maximum power allowed by FCC and IC. Actual operating range may vary.
- Power Requirement: Parent unit: 2.4 V Ni-MH battery; Baby unit power adapter: Output: 6V DC 400mA; Parent unit power adapter: Output: 6V DC 400mA
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
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