Samsung HW-HM45 / HW-HM45C Wireless Audio Soundbar

Features

• TV SoundConnect: Listen to audio from your TV on the Soundbar via Bluetooth and control sound.
• HDMI: Transmits video and audio signals simultaneously for a clearer picture. Includes ARC function to listen to TV sound through the Soundbar via HDMI cable (requires ARC compliant TV).
• 3D SOUND: Adds depth and spaciousness to your listening experience.
• Wireless Subwoofer: Connects wirelessly to the main unit, eliminating cables.
• Special Sound Effects: Select from MUSIC, VOICE, SPORTS, CINEMA, or STANDARD (Original Sound) modes.
• Multi-function Remote Control: Control various operations with simple button presses.
• USB Host Support: Play music files from external USB storage devices.
• Bluetooth Function: Connect a Bluetooth device for high-quality stereo sound wirelessly.

Licenses

• Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
• For DTS patents, see http://patents.dts.com. Manufactured under license from DTS Licensing Limited. DTS, the DTS Symbol, & DTS and the DTS Symbol together are registered trademarks, and DTS 2.0 Channel is a trademark of DTS, Inc. © DTS, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
• The terms HDMI and HDMI High-Definition Multimedia Interface, and the HDMI Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC in the United States and other countries.

Safety Information

Safety Warnings

• Risk of Electric Shock: Do not remove the cover (or back). No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
• The lighting flash and arrowhead within the triangle ⚡ indicates dangerous voltage inside the product.
• The explanation point within the triangle ? indicates important instructions accompanying the product.
• Do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture.
• This apparatus must be securely attached to the floor/wall in accordance with installation instructions to prevent injury.
• This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive toxicity.
• Do not expose this apparatus to dripping or splashing. Do not place objects filled with liquids on the apparatus.
• To turn off completely, pull the power plug from the wall socket; the plug must be easily accessible.
• This product satisfies FCC regulations when shielded cables and connectors are used.
• FCC NOTE (for U.S.A): This equipment complies with FCC Part 15 limits for Class B digital devices. It generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed and used per instructions, it may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
• Caution: Unauthorized changes may void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Important Safety Instructions

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these Instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block ventilation openings. Install per manufacturer's instructions.
8. Do not install near heat sources.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. Consult an electrician if the plug does not fit your outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched.
11. Only use manufacturer-specified attachments/accessories.
12. Use only with specified carts, stands, tripods, brackets, or tables. Use caution when moving cart/apparatus combinations.
13. Unplug during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required if the apparatus is damaged (cord, plug, liquid spill, objects fallen, exposed to rain/moisture, not operating normally, dropped).

Precautions

• Ensure AC power supply complies with product requirements. Install horizontally on a suitable base with adequate ventilation (3-4 inches). Do not cover ventilation slots. Do not place on hot equipment. Unit is designed for continuous use. To turn off, disconnect AC plug. Unplug if unused for a long period.
• During thunderstorms, disconnect the AC plug from the wall outlet to prevent damage from voltage peaks. ⚡
• Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight or other heat sources to prevent overheating and malfunction.
• Protect the product from moisture, excess heat, or strong magnetic/electric fields. Disconnect power if the unit malfunctions. This product is for personal use only.
• Condensation may occur in cold temperatures. Wait approximately 2 hours for the unit to reach room temperature before use if transported in winter.
• WARNING, DO NOT INGEST BATTERY, CHEMICAL BURN HAZARD: The remote control contains a coin/button cell battery. If swallowed, it can cause severe internal burns in just 2 hours and lead to death. Keep batteries away from children. If the battery compartment does not close securely, stop using the product and keep it away from children. Seek immediate medical attention if batteries are suspected to have been swallowed or placed inside any part of the body. ?
• Batteries contain chemicals harmful to the environment. Do not dispose of in household trash or fire. Do not short circuit, disassemble, or overheat batteries. Danger of explosion if incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type.

Getting Started

Before Reading the User's Manual

Note the following terms:

• Icon: Term: Definition
• [Caution Icon]: Caution: Indicates a situation where a function does not operate or settings may be canceled. ⚠️
• [Note Icon]: Note: Indicates tips or instructions that help operate a function. ?

Safety Instructions and Troubleshooting:

• Familiarize yourself with Safety Instructions (See page 3).
• Check Troubleshooting for problems (See page 23).

Copyright ©2014 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. All rights reserved.

What's Included

Check for supplied accessories:

• Remote Control / Lithium Battery (3V: CR2032)
• Holder-screw (x2)
• Holder-screw (x2)
• User Manual / Quick Guide
• Wall Mount L (x1)
• Wall Mount R (x1)
• Bracket-Wall Mount (L/R)
• Wall Mount Guide
• Power Cord
• DC Adapter
• AUX Cable
• USB Cable
• HDMI Cable (Only HW-HM45C)
• Optical Cable (Only HW-HM45C)

Note: Accessory appearance may differ slightly. Use the dedicated USB cable for external USB devices.

Descriptions

Top/Front Panel

• VOL-/+: Controls volume level. Numeric value appears on the front display.
• (Power) Button: Turns the power on and off. ?
• Display: Shows the current mode.
• F (Function) Button: Selects input modes (D.IN, AUX, HDMI, BT, TV, USB). Pressing and holding for >3 seconds sets it as MUTE.
• Note: The F button may vary by model. A 4-5 second delay occurs before sound output when turning on. Turn off TV speakers for sound only from the Soundbar.

Rear Panel

• HDMI IN: Inputs digital video and audio signals via HDMI cable.
• AUX IN: Connects to the Analog output of an external device.
• (USB Port): Connect USB devices like MP3 players. ?
• DC 24V (Power Supply In): Connect DC power adapter to the power supply jack, then plug into a wall outlet.
• OPTICAL IN: Connects to the digital (optical) output of an external device.
• HDMI OUT (TV): Outputs digital video and audio signals via HDMI cable.

Important: When disconnecting the power cord, pull the plug, not the cable. Connect components before plugging into an AC outlet.

Remote Control

Remote Control Buttons and Functions

• SOURCE: Selects a connected source.
• MUTE: Turns volume to 0. Press again to restore previous volume. ?
• REPEAT: Sets repeat function for USB playback (OFF, FILE, ALL, RANDOM).
• Skip Forward: Selects the next file. ⏩
• AUDIO SYNC: Syncs audio with video if out of sync. Use ◀▶ buttons to set audio delay (0-300 ms). May not work in USB, TV, or BT modes.
• DIMMER/Anynet+: DIMMER: Controls display brightness. Anynet+: Press and hold for >3 seconds to turn on/off. Anynet+ allows control of the Soundbar with a compatible Samsung TV remote via HDMI.
• Auto Power Link: Synchronizes Soundbar to an optical source, turning it on automatically with the TV.
• EQUALIZER WOOFER: Select Treble/Bass using ◀▶ buttons (-3 to +3). Control subwoofer volume using ◀▶ buttons (-6 to +6).
• Note: Soundbar is a Samsung proprietary name. Operate TV with TV's remote.

Remote Control (Continued)

• POWER: Turns the Soundbar on and off. ?
• VOLUME: Adjusts volume level. ?/?
• Play/Pause: Pauses or plays the file. ▶️ / ⏸️
• Skip Back: Selects the previous file. ⏪
• SOUND EFFECT: Selects sound modes (MUSIC, VOICE, SPORTS, CINEMA, STANDARD). Pressing SOUND EFFECT for >5 seconds toggles Smart Volume on/off.
• Smart Volume: Regulates and stabilizes volume against drastic changes.
• Bluetooth POWER: Turns Bluetooth POWER on/off. See pages 19-20. ?
• 3D SOUND (3D Sound Plus): Adds depth and spaciousness. Cycles through OFF, MUSIC, MOVIE.

Installing the Battery in the Remote Control

1. Use a coin to turn the remote control's battery cover counterclockwise to remove it.
2. Insert a 3V lithium battery with the positive (+) pole facing up. Align the cover and the '⊕' marks.
3. Use a coin to turn the battery cover clockwise to secure it.

Connections

Installing the Wall Mount

Mount the unit on a wall using the wall mount bracket.

Installation Precautions

• Install on a vertical wall only.
• Avoid locations with high temperature or humidity, or walls that cannot sustain the unit's weight.
• Check wall strength; reinforce or use a different wall if necessary.
• Use fixing screws/anchors appropriate for your wall type (plaster board, wood, etc.). Fix support screws into wall studs if possible.
• Purchase wall mounting screws (M5 diameter, 1 3/8 in / 35 mm or longer recommended).
• Connect cables before installing on the wall.
• Ensure the unit is turned off and unplugged before installation to prevent electric shock.
• Place the installation guide against the wall, ensuring it is level.
• Install at least 2 inches (5 cm) below the TV if wall-mounted.
• Mark screw locations, then remove the guide.
• Fasten wall mounts and screws. Note that left and right mounts may differ in shape.
• Secure holder screws to the back of the Soundbar's main body.
• Insert USB cable before installing on the wall.
• Set holder screws into wall mount grooves, ensuring they are pushed fully to the bottom for safe installation.

Detaching the Wall Mount

1. Pull the Soundbar upwards to separate it from the wall mount.

Important: Do not hang on the installed unit or strike/drop it. Secure unit firmly to the wall. Ensure children cannot pull cables. For optimal performance, install at least 2 inches (5 cm) below the TV. If not wall-mounting, install on a secure, flat surface.

Installing the Bracket Without Referring to the Wall-Mount Installation Guide

1. Place "Wall Mount L" parallel to the floor and fix a screw through its right end.
2. Place "Wall Mount R" parallel to the floor and fix a screw through its left end.
3. If mounting below the TV, check hole positions for alignment with the TV's bottom center.
4. Fix screws through the remaining holes.

Connecting the Wireless Subwoofer

The subwoofer's linking ID is preset. The main unit and subwoofer should link automatically. If the Link indicator (?) does not light, set the ID:

1. Plug in the power cords of the main unit and subwoofer.
2. Press the ID SET button on the subwoofer's back with a pointed object for 5 seconds. The STANDBY indicator turns off, and the LINK indicator (? LED) blinks quickly.
3. While the main unit is off (in STANDBY mode), press and hold MUTE (?) on the remote for 5 seconds.
4. "ID SET" message appears on the Soundbar display.
5. Turn on the main unit while the subwoofer's Blue LED blinks to finalize the link. The Link indicator (? LED) should be solid blue.

If the Link indicator is not solid blue, the linking failed. Turn off the main unit and restart from Step 2. Select a Sound Effect for better sound (See page 10).

Important notes:

• Before moving or installing, turn off power and disconnect the power cord.
• If the main unit is off, the subwoofer enters standby mode.
• Devices using the 2.4GHz frequency may cause interference.
• Wireless signal distance is about 33 ft., but varies by environment. Steel-concrete or metallic walls can block the signal.
• If the main unit does not connect wirelessly, repeat steps 1-5.
• The wireless receiving antenna is built into the subwoofer. Keep away from water and moisture.
• Ensure the area around the subwoofer is clear of obstructions for optimal performance.

Connecting an External Device Using an HDMI Cable

HDMI is the standard digital interface for connecting to TVs, projectors, DVD players, Blu-ray players, set-top boxes, etc. It maintains video and audio quality.

• HDMI IN: Connect an HDMI cable from the HDMI IN jack on the product to the HDMI OUT jack on your digital device.
• HDMI OUT (TV): Connect an HDMI cable from the HDMI OUT (TV) jack on the product to the HDMI IN jack on your TV.
• HDMI OUT (ARC): Allows digital audio output via the HDMI OUT (ARC) port. Requires a TV that supports ARC and Anynet+ enabled. The HDMI cable must also support ARC.

HDMI enables digital transmission of video and audio data with a single connector.

Connecting an External Device Using Audio (Analog) Cable or Optical (Digital) Cable

The unit has an optical digital jack and an audio analog jack for connecting to a TV.

• AUX IN: Connect AUX IN (Audio) on the main unit to the AUDIO OUT jack of the TV or Source Device. Change function to AUX.
• OPTICAL IN: Connect OPTICAL IN (Audio) on the main unit to the OPTICAL OUT jack of the TV or Source Device. Change function to D.IN.

Important: Do not connect power cords until all connections are complete. Turn off power and disconnect the cord before moving or installing.

Functions

Input Mode

Press the F button on the main unit or the SOURCE button on the remote to select the desired mode:

The unit turns off automatically after periods of inactivity:

• D.IN/HDMI/BT/TV/USB/ARC Mode: 25 minutes with no audio signal.
• AUX Mode: 25 minutes if the AUX cable is disconnected.
• 8 hours if no input is detected when the AUX cable is connected.

To turn Auto Power Down ON/OFF, press and hold the ▶II button for 5 seconds.

ARC (HDMI OUT)

ARC (Audio Return Channel) transfers digital audio signal to the HDMI OUT (ARC) port.

1. Connect the TV supporting ARC to the Soundbar with an HDMI cable.
2. Turn on the TV and the Soundbar's Anynet+.
3. Press the F button or SOURCE button to select D.IN mode.

Note: The F button may vary by model. If the HDMI cable does not support ARC, it may not work. Turn off Anynet+ to disable ARC.

Bluetooth

Connect a Bluetooth device to the Soundbar for wireless music playback.

To connect the Soundbar to a Bluetooth device

1. Press the F button or SOURCE button to select BT mode. "BT READY" will appear on the display.
2. Select the Bluetooth menu on your Bluetooth device and choose the Stereo headset menu.
3. Select "[Samsung] Soundbar" from the list of scanned devices. The display will show "[Bluetooth device name] → BT".
4. Play music on the connected device.

Note: In BT mode, Play/Pause/Next/Prev functions may not be available unless the device supports AVRCP. If asked for a PIN, enter "0000". Only one device can be paired at a time. Bluetooth connection terminates when the Soundbar is turned off. Avoid strong electrical fields or interference from other devices.

Bluetooth POWER on (Bluetooth POWER)

If Bluetooth POWER On is enabled, a previously paired Bluetooth device can turn the Soundbar on automatically.

1. Press the Bluetooth POWER button on the remote while the Soundbar is on.
2. "BLUETOOTH POWER ON" appears on the display.

Note: This function is available only if the Soundbar is listed among paired devices and displays "BT READY". It cannot be used in TV SoundConnect mode.

To disconnect the Bluetooth device from the Soundbar

Disconnect the Bluetooth device via its user manual. The Soundbar will display "BT DISCONNECTED".

To disconnect the Soundbar from the Bluetooth device

Switch to another mode or turn off the Soundbar. The connection will be lost if the distance exceeds 16.25 ft (5m). The Soundbar automatically turns off after 25 minutes in Ready state.

More About Bluetooth

Bluetooth enables easy interconnection of Bluetooth-compliant devices using short wireless connections. Interference can occur due to body contact, electrical variations, or other devices using the same frequency band (e.g., microwave ovens, wireless LANs). Keep devices close for best quality. Poor reception areas or obstacles may degrade performance.

TV SoundConnect

Enjoy TV sound through the Soundbar when connected to a Samsung TV supporting TV SoundConnect.

Connecting a TV to the Soundbar

1. Turn on the TV and Soundbar. Access the TV's menu, go to Speaker Settings on the "Sound" tab, and set "Add New Device" to "On".
2. Press the F button or SOURCE button to select TV mode.
3. On the TV, a message will ask to enable TV SoundConnect. Select "[Samsung] Soundbar".
4. Select "Yes" to finish connecting via the TV remote.

Note: The F button may vary by model. Switching modes terminates TV SoundConnect. To connect to another TV, terminate the existing connection first. Press the ▶II button for 5 seconds to connect to another TV.

TV SoundConnect (SoundShare) is supported by some Samsung TVs released from 2012. Check your TV's manual. If your TV was released before 2014, check the SoundShare setting menu.

Operational Ranges:

• Recommended pairing range: within 20 inches (50cm).
• Recommended operational range: within 16.25 ft (5m).

Play/Pause, Next, Prev buttons are not operable in TV SoundConnect mode.

Using the Bluetooth POWER On function

This function is available after connecting to a Bluetooth-compatible TV via TV SoundConnect. When ON, turning the TV on/off also turns the Soundbar on/off.

1. Connect the TV to the Soundbar using TV SoundConnect.
2. Press the Bluetooth POWER button on the remote. "BLUETOOTH POWER ON" appears.

Note: This function is supported by some Samsung TVs released from 2013.

USB

Play music files from USB storage devices through the Soundbar.

• USB Port: Connect USB devices here. ?
• Display: Shows "USB" when connected.

1. Connect the USB device to the USB port on the back of the product.
2. Press the F button or SOURCE button to select USB mode.
3. "USB" appears on the display. The connection is complete.

The Soundbar automatically turns off (Auto Power Off) if no USB device is connected for over 25 minutes.

Before you connect a USB device

• Do not connect multiple storage devices via a multi-card reader.
• Digital camera PTP protocols are not supported.
• Do not remove the USB device while transferring files.
• DRM-protected music files from commercial websites cannot be played.
• External HDDs and mobile phone devices are not supported.
• If a file or folder name exceeds 10 characters, it may not display correctly.
• This product may not be compatible with all USB storage media.
• The Soundbar supports FAT16 and FAT32 file systems. NTFS is not supported.
• Connect USB devices directly to the USB port.

File Format Type Compatibility List

Software Update

Samsung may offer firmware updates for the Soundbar. Update firmware by connecting a USB device with the update stored on it to the USB port.

• Load update files one at a time.
• Visit samsung.com or contact the Samsung call center for more information.
• Insert a USB device containing the firmware update into the USB port.
• Updating may fail if audio files are also stored on the USB device.
• Do not disconnect power or remove the USB device during updates. The unit will turn off automatically upon completion.
• After a reset, settings revert to factory defaults. Write down your settings beforehand. Subwoofer connection may also reset. If connection fails after reset, refer to page 13.
• If firmware update fails, try formatting the USB device in FAT16.
• Once the update is complete, turn off the product, then press and hold the ▶II button on the remote for >5 seconds. "INIT" will appear, and the unit will power off. Upgrade is complete.
• Do not format the USB device in NTFS format.
• Some USB devices may not be supported.

Troubleshooting

Refer to the table below for common issues. If a problem persists, turn off the product, disconnect the power cord, and contact Samsung Electronics at 1-800-SAMSUNG (1-800-726-7864).

Appendix

Specifications

* S/N ratio, distortion, separation, and usable sensitivity are based on measurements using AES (Audio Engineering Society) guidelines.

* Nominal specification. Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd reserves the right to change specifications without notice.

* Weight and dimensions are approximate.

Dispose unwanted electronics through an approved recycler. Find locations at www.samsung.com/recyclingdirect or call (877) 278-0799. ♻️

Open Source License Notice

For information on Open Sources used in this product, visit http://opensource.samsung.com. For inquiries, contact Samsung via Email (oss.request@samsung.com). ✉️

Warranty

LIMITED WARRANTY TO ORIGINAL PURCHASER

Samsung warrants this product against manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship for:

• One (1) Year Parts and Labor* (*90 Days Parts and Labor for Commercial Use)

This warranty is valid only for products purchased and used in the United States. To receive warranty service, contact SAMSUNG for problem determination and service procedures. Service must be performed by a SAMSUNG authorized service center. Proof of purchase (original dated bill of sale) is required.

SAMSUNG will repair or replace the product with new or reconditioned parts/products at its option, free of charge, if found defective during the warranty period. Replaced parts/products assume the remaining warranty period or 90 days, whichever is longer.

SAMSUNG's obligations regarding software products are set forth in the applicable end-user license agreement. Non-SAMSUNG hardware/software is provided "AS IS".

This warranty covers manufacturing defects in normal, non-commercial use. It does NOT cover:

• Damage during shipment, delivery, or installation.
• Applications/uses for which the product was not intended.
• Altered product or serial numbers.
• Cosmetic damage or exterior finish.
• Accidents, abuse, neglect, fire, water, lightning, or other acts of nature.
• Use of unauthorized parts, accessories, or repairs.
• Incorrect electrical line voltage, fluctuations, or surges.
• Failure to follow operating, cleaning, or maintenance instructions.
• Product removal or reinstallation.
• Reception problems or distortion from signal transmission/delivery issues.

SAMSUNG does not warrant uninterrupted or error-free operation.

There are no express warranties other than those listed. Implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose are limited to the stated warranty periods. SAMSUNG is not liable for loss of revenue, profits, savings, or other consequential damages, nor shall recovery exceed the purchase price of the product.

Purchaser assumes all risk and liability for loss, damage, or injury arising out of the use, misuse, or inability to use this product, except for direct negligence by SAMSUNG.

This limited warranty extends only to the original purchaser and is non-transferable. It states your exclusive remedy.

Benefits extend only to purchases from authorized Samsung resellers. Purchases from unauthorized resellers are excluded, except where prohibited by law.

Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranty duration or consequential damages, so these limitations may not apply to you. This warranty gives specific legal rights, and you may have other rights that vary by state.

For warranty hardware service, contact SAMSUNG customer care.

Questions or Comments?

• Country: U.S.A.
• Call: 1-800-SAMSUNG (1-800-726-7864)
• Visit Us Online: www.samsung.com/us/support ?
• Write: Samsung Electronics America, Inc., 85 Challenger Road, Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660

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