ClearOne CHAT 160 / CHATAttach 160 User's Manual
Group Speakerphone for Skype™
Contact Information
Telephone: 1.800.283.5936 (USA) or 1.801.974.3760
FAX: 1.801.974.3669
E-mail: Tech.Support@ClearOne.com
On the Web: www.ClearOne.com
Part Number: 800-000-012 - March 2012 (REV. 2.1)
© 2012 ClearOne. All rights reserved.
U.S. PATENTS: D539,274; D556,189; D531,999. OTHER PATENTS PENDING.
Chapter 1: Introduction
Product Overview
Thank you for purchasing the ClearOne CHAT 160 group speakerphone. The CHAT 160 is a high-performance audio peripheral that provides rich audio for hands-free calls with Skype, the popular Internet communication program. The CHAT 160 is completely full-duplex and contains HDConference®, the suite of audio processing technologies that includes Distributed Echo Cancellation®, Noise Reduction, Automatic Level Controls, and Adaptive Modeling, producing crystal clear conversations.
The CHAT 160 device is designed specifically to be used with Skype. This manual provides instructions on using the CHAT 160 with the Skype application.
All CHAT 160 units have a mini-USB port for connection to a PC.
Service and Support
For additional information on setting up or operating your CHAT 160 Group Speakerphone, please contact ClearOne. Comments are welcome to help improve products and better meet customer needs.
Technical Support
Telephone: 1.800.283.5936 (USA) or 1.801.974.3760
Fax: 1.801.977.0087
E-mail: Tech.Support@ClearOne.com
Web site: www.ClearOne.com
Sales and Customer Service
Telephone: 1.800.945.7730 (USA) or 1.801.975.7200
Fax: 1.800.933.5107 (USA) or 1.801.977.0087
E-mail: Sales@ClearOne.com
Product Returns
All product returns require a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number. Contact ClearOne Technical Support before returning a product. Ensure all original shipped items are returned.
Important Safety Information
Read the safety instructions before using this product. This personal speakerphone is not designed for making emergency telephone calls when the power fails. Make alternative arrangements for telephone access to emergency services.
- Read and understand all instructions. Follow all warnings marked on the product.
- Unplug the product from the outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. Use only a damp cloth for cleaning.
- Do not use this product in or near water (e.g., near a bathtub, kitchen sink, or swimming pool).
- Place this product on a flat, level, dry surface for ongoing operation.
- Never place the product near heat radiators or registers. Allow adequate ventilation for heat dissipation.
- Operate this product only using a power source specified on the product label. Consult your dealer or local power company if unsure about the power source.
- Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords, as this can cause fires or electric shock.
- Never spill liquid on or into the product.
- Do not disassemble this product. Opening or removing covers can expose you to dangerous voltages and other risks. Incorrect reassembly can cause electric shock during subsequent use. Disassembly voids the warranty.
- Unplug the product and contact a qualified service technician if:
- The power supply cord or plug is damaged or frayed.
- Liquid has been spilled into the product.
- The product does not operate normally.
- The product has been dropped or damaged.
- The product exhibits a distinct change in performance.
- Avoid using telephones during an electrical storm; there is a risk of electric shock from lightning.
- Do not use this product to report a gas leak in the vicinity of the leak.
- Do not use this product near intensive care medical equipment or by persons with pacemakers.
- This product may interfere with electrical equipment such as answering machines, TV sets, radios, computers, and microwave ovens. Do not place the product in close proximity to any of these devices.
[Warning: To prevent fire or electrical shock hazard, do not expose this product to rain or moisture.]
[Caution: Risk of electric shock. Do not open.]
[Warning: Lightning flash and arrow head within the triangle is a warning sign alerting you of dangerous voltage inside the product.]
[Caution: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove cover (or back). No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.]
[Warning: The exclamation point within the triangle is a warning sign alerting you of important instructions accompanying the product.]
See marking on bottom/back of product.
Save these instructions.
Chapter 2: Getting Started
CHAT 160 Controls
The CHAT 160 features several controls:
- Mute Status Indicator: Indicates mute status.
- Volume Status Indicator: Shows current volume level.
- Volume Down Button: Decreases volume.
- Volume Up Button: Increases volume.
- Mute Button: Toggles microphone mute on/off.
LED Indicators: Several blue LED lights indicate connection to a PC via USB or a breakout box. Three status indicator LEDs above each microphone are blue when operational and turn red when mute is active. Seven LEDs next to the volume controls illuminate blue to show the current volume level (more lights indicate higher volume).
Once connected to a computer, the CHAT 160 automatically becomes the default audio device for Windows (speaker and microphone). When Skype is running, it also becomes the default speaker and microphone for Skype calls, replacing the computer's built-in devices.
Volume and Mute Buttons: Use the Volume Up/Down buttons to adjust the CHAT 160's volume. Use the Mute button to mute or unmute the microphones. Volume adjustments made via the CHAT 160 buttons also change the volume settings in Windows, and vice versa.
Installing the CHAT Software for Windows
Note: The installation procedure is the same for Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7.
The CHAT 160 can be used out-of-the-box without software installation for PC-only use. The following procedure is for downloading and installing the CHAT software, necessary for use with other devices or for firmware updates.
- Download the CHAT software from: www.ClearOne.com/support/downloads.php?content=main
- In the "BY PRODUCT" window, select your device and click SEARCH. Downloads for your specific device will be displayed. Select the latest version of the CHAT 60/160 Software.
- Unzip the downloaded folder and run
Setup.exeto begin the installation. - Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
After installation, start the CHAT software by double-clicking the ClearOne CHAT icon on your Windows desktop or by navigating through the Start Menu: (Start > All Programs > ClearOne Communications > CHAT > ClearOne CHAT).
Before first use, configure audio settings as described in Chapter 4, "Advanced section," to ensure optimal sound quality.
Connecting the CHAT 160 to a PC
Using the included USB cable, connect the CHAT 160 to your PC or laptop. The blue LED indicators on the CHAT 160 will illuminate, indicating it is powered and ready for use.
[Diagram: A CHAT 160 speakerphone connected via a USB cable to a laptop. The USB connection points are highlighted.]
CHATAttach: Connecting Two CHAT Devices
The CHATAttach accessory allows connecting two CHAT devices for larger conference settings. The following criteria must be met:
- Both CHAT devices must be the same model number (e.g., two CHAT 160s). Mixing models is not currently supported.
- Both CHAT devices must have identical, CHATAttach-compatible firmware versions installed. Download the latest firmware from the website and update both devices. Older CHAT 160 devices will require a firmware update to work with CHATAttach.
- The CHAT devices should be positioned at least 5 feet apart for optimal performance.
Connection Steps:
- Connect the two CHAT devices using the keyed CHATAttach cable.
- Position the devices at least 5 feet apart.
- Plug in the CHATAttach power supply.
[Diagram: Two CHAT 160 units connected by a CHATAttach cable, with a power supply plugged in.]
Tip: To prevent accidental unplugging of the power cable during meetings, it is recommended to secure the connector end, for example, by knotting the male-female connection.
[Diagram: A knot tied in a cable connector.]
A professional approach to setup involves drilling holes near device placement, routing cables underneath the conference table, and securing them.
[Diagram: Cables routed through holes under a conference table.]
Follow the CHAT 160 User's Manual instructions for PC setup.
CHATAttach Working Modes
| Mode # | Mode Code | Description | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Solid Red LED on both CHAT devices | CHAT devices are in MUTE mode. | Normal |
| 2 | Solid Blue LED on both CHAT devices | CHAT devices are in UNMUTE mode. | Normal |
| 3 | Single Blue Volume light on both CHAT devices | No PC attached. CHAT devices are in STAND-BY mode and will WAKE-UP when a PC is reattached. Previous CHAT device settings will be reinstated. | Normal |
CHATAttach Troubleshooting
| Error # | Error Code | Cause | Resolution |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Blinking Red LEDs on both devices | Firmware on CHAT devices supports CHATAttach, but firmware versions are not the same. | Download and install the latest firmware onto both CHAT devices. |
| 2 | Blinking Blue LEDs on both devices | More than one PC connected at a time. | Connect ONLY one PC to the CHAT device. |
| 3 | Blinking Red LED on a single CHAT device | 1. CHATAttach Power Supply not plugged in. 2. Only one CHAT device supports CHATAttach. 3. Only one CHAT device connected to CHATAttach. |
1. Plug the CHATAttach Power Supply into an active power receptacle. 2. Download and install the latest firmware onto both CHAT devices. 3. Connect both CHAT devices to the CHATAttach accessory. |
| 4 | CHAT devices will not synchronize | The firmware on both devices does not support the CHATAttach accessory. | Download and install the latest firmware onto both CHAT devices. |
Chapter 3: Using the CHAT Application
Using the CHAT Application
- Start the CHAT application.
- Click "My Devices", select the device, and click "Apply to CHAT".
- Set speaker and volume settings on the external device or application to 50%.
- Click "Advanced" to access pre-defined audio settings. Use the "USB Audio" section to tune applications.
Note: Adjusting "Microphone Level" or "Speaker Level" under USB Audio in the Advanced screen changes the CHAT 160's microphone or speaker volume for USB applications.
- Place a call. Land lines provide the best audio for tuning.
- Ask the other person to count from 1 to 10. Adjust the "Input" slider in the CHAT application until the caller's voice is clearly heard. Repeat as needed for optimal speaker volume.
- While the caller is connected, count from 1 to 10. Ask the caller if they can hear you clearly. Adjust the "Output" slider until the caller can hear you clearly. Repeat the test count as needed for optimal microphone volume.
- Click "Save to Database". Enter a name in the "Model" field and click "Save to Database".
- The optimal audio settings are now ready. Repeat for other devices/applications.
To switch audio settings for different applications, click "My Devices", select the application, and click "Apply to CHAT".
Using a Third-Party Application
For applications other than CHAT (e.g., Skype), ClearOne recommends using the application's tuning wizard or audio configuration controls. If the application lacks these, use the CHAT application's tuning features as described previously.
Update Firmware & Database
The "Update Firmware" screen shows current firmware/database versions and checks ClearOne's website for updates. You can update automatically via "Check for updates" or manually load a file using "Select File".
Note: An internet connection is required for the "Check for updates" option.
Check for Firmware Updates
- Start the CHAT 160 software.
- Click the "Update Firmware" button.
- Click the "Check for updates" button.
- Messages will appear indicating the process (e.g., "Locating website...", "Website found", "Click Update to load new firmware...").
Note: If no updates are available, messages like "Your device contains the most recent firmware" will appear.
- Click the "Update" button to install available updates. An "Update" dialog box will appear.
[Screenshot: CHAT 160 software window with "Update Firmware" selected. An "Update" dialog box is shown, asking "This will update the Chat 160. Are you sure you want to continue?" with Yes/No options.]
Click "Yes" to proceed or "No" to cancel. A second "Update" dialog may appear for database updates.
Warning: Do not unplug the CHAT 160 during updates.
Upon completion, messages like "Update Successful!" will appear, indicating the new firmware/database revision level.
Your CHAT 160 will then have the latest updates.
Manual Updates
Note: This procedure is for advanced users or environments with strict IT security policies. Loading incorrect firmware can cause unpredictable results. Automatic updates are generally recommended.
To manually update firmware or the database:
- In the "Update Firmware" screen, click "Select File". The "Open" dialog window appears.
- [Screenshot: "Open" dialog window showing file selection for firmware packages.]
- From the "List files of type" dropdown, select "Firmware" or "Database" package.
- Select the desired file from the list and press "OK". Navigate to the correct folder if the file was downloaded manually.
- Click the "Update" button.
- A warning dialog appears; click "Yes" to load the selected file or "No" to cancel.
- Messages will appear under the progress bar indicating the update is in progress.
Warning: Do not unplug the CHAT 160 during a manual update.
Upon completion, a success message will appear. If firmware programming was interrupted (e.g., power loss), refer to "Interrupted Firmware Update Recovery" in Chapter 4.
Help
The "Help" button offers the following options:
- Help: Activates the online help file.
- About: Displays information about your CHAT 160, including software and firmware revision numbers.
- ClearOne Homepage: Opens the ClearOne website in your default browser.
- Registration: Opens the ClearOne registration page in your default browser.
Advanced
The "Advanced" screen displays current audio settings for your CHAT 160. You can adjust audio settings, save custom device configurations, view and edit the device database, and view the CHAT 160 log file.
[Screenshot: CHAT 160 software "Advanced Settings" window showing "Audio Settings" tab with controls for Microphone Level, Speaker Level, etc.]
Advanced Settings: Audio Settings
This screen allows modification of audio settings for the CHAT 160 connected to your PC.
- USB Audio: Controls affect audio when connected via USB. Use Mute buttons to mute microphone or speaker. Sliders adjust microphone and speaker levels. Changes made here synchronize with Windows volume settings.
- Save to Database: Captures current settings as a custom device.
- Database Tab: Select previously saved application setups.
- Log Tab: View CHAT 160 log files detailing issues or updates.
Note: Volume settings in the CHAT software are synchronized with Windows volume settings, and vice versa.
Advanced Settings: Log
The "Log" displays a list of actions taken by the CHAT 160, including timestamps and descriptions.
Click "Save" to save the log to a text file. Click "Clear" to clear all entries in the log window.
[Screenshot: CHAT 160 software "Log" tab showing a list of actions and buttons for Clear and Save.]
Chapter 4: Maintenance
Caring for the CHAT 160
- Follow all warnings and instructions in this manual.
- Unplug all cables from the CHAT 160 before cleaning.
- Unplug the power supply from the wall outlet before cleaning.
- Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth moistened with water to clean the CHAT 160 and power supply.
Troubleshooting
If audio issues occur, the CHAT 160 may need optimization for the connected hardware device. Refer to "Using the CHAT Application" in Chapter 3.
For persistent problems:
- Activate the CHAT 160 software and verify audio settings for the connected hardware device. If issues persist, consult the hardware device's User's Manual or contact Technical Support.
- Ensure all cables are properly and securely connected. Refer to Chapter 2 for connection illustrations.
- If using a USB hub, ensure it is connected to an external power source.
- If another USB device on the same bus causes a "USB Controller Bandwidth Exceeded" error, move the other device to a separate USB bus. The CHAT 160 requires sufficient bandwidth.
If problems persist, refer to ClearOne's website support pages or contact ClearOne Technical Support:
Phone: 1.800.283.5936 (USA) or 1.801.974.3760
Fax: 1.801.977.0087
E-mail: Tech.Support@ClearOne.com
Internet: www.ClearOne.com
Interrupted Firmware Update Recovery
If firmware programming is interrupted (e.g., power loss, cable disconnection), the CHAT 160 may become unstable and boot into a generic mode. The "Generic Mode" screen will be displayed.
[Screenshot: CHAT 160 software "Generic Mode" screen, indicating an unknown state and offering Reboot or Firmware Update options.]
To recover, follow the on-screen instructions. This may involve rebooting the device by unplugging and replugging the USB cable (without holding the mute button). If rebooting fails, a firmware update is necessary. Download the latest firmware from www.clearone.com, select "Select File" in the update software, and proceed with the update.
If the CHAT 160 attempts to recover from a programming error in DFU mode, follow the displayed instructions.
Chapter 5: Appendix
Specifications
Operating Systems Supported
- Windows XP
- Windows Vista
- Windows 7
Connections
- USB: Version 2.0 Compatible, Type: Mini-B Female
- Keyed Connector: Keyed RJ-45 (8-conductor)
Controls
- Volume Up
- Volume Down
- Microphone Mute
Audio
- Speaker: Bandwidth: 190 Hz - 20 kHz, Max Output Level: 85 dB SPL @ 1 foot (0.30 meter)
- Microphone: Bandwidth: 50 Hz - 7.75 kHz
Environmental
- Operating Temperature: 41 - 104° F (5 - 40° C)
Processing
- Full-Duplex
- Distributed Echo Cancellation (D.E.C.)®
- Noise Cancellation
- Automatic Level Control (ALC)
- Line Echo Cancellation (LEC) - Selectable
- First Mic Priority
Power
- USB: 5 VDC @ 500 mA Maximum
- External: 100 - 240 VAC Input, 9 VDC @ 560 mA Output (Tip: Power, Ring: Ground)
Mechanical
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 7.4" x 7.4" x 1.8" (18.8 cm x 18.8 cm x 4.6 cm)
- Weight: 1.17 lbs (0.53 kg)
Compliance
- RoHS
- REACH
- FCC Class A Part 15
- ICES-003
- CE Listed
- UL Listed
Model Numbers
- 910-156-251 CHAT 160: Single CHAT 160 and Connecting Cable
- 910-156-251-00 CHATAttach 160: Two (2) CHAT 160 Devices, Connecting Cables and Power Supply
Accessory Part Number
- 910-156-225 CHATAttach Expansion Kit: Includes Cables, Power Supply and Quick Start Guide to Update Two (2) CHAT 160 Devices to CHATAttach
European Compliance
See the ClearOne Website for specific and up-to-date European Compliance & Conformity information at: www.ClearOne.com/resources/EuroDOC.php
FCC Part 15/ICES-003 Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules and Industry Canada ICES-003. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment causes harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced Radio/TV technician for help.
FCC Part 15.19(A) (3) Compliance
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesirable operation.
Warranty
ClearOne (the Manufacturer) warrants that this product is free of defects in both materials and workmanship. For complete warranty information including length, coverage, and limitations, visit ClearOne on the web at www.ClearOne.com.
ClearOne
Edgewater Corporate Park South Tower
5225 Wiley Post Way
Suite 500
Salt Lake City, Utah 84116 U.S.A.
