VERAS 9 VERAS 7 VERAS 5 Micro and Compact Power BTE Behind-the-ear hearing instruments INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction 7 Description of features 8 Inserting instruments with an earmold 10 Removing earmold and hearing instruments 12 Inserting instruments with a Spira Flex sound tube 13 Removing your instruments and Spira Flex sound tube 14 Operating your instruments (ON/OFF) 15 Changing the volume level 16 Changing programs 17 Telecoil function 18 Telephone use 19 Changing the battery 21 Data logging and learning 24 Direct Audio Input and FM 25 3
Operating instruments with remote control 27 Operating instruments with SoundGate 28 Instrument care 29 Using your hearing instruments 35 Using the telephone 38 Environmental protection 39 Product approval, markings and compliance 40 Compliance with radio communications requirements for the USA and Canada 42 Compliance with requirements for Europe 45 Cell phone and hearing instrument compatibility 47 International warranty 49 Your hearing instrument configuration 50 Accessories 53
Congratulations on the purchase of your new Bernafon hearing instruments. With a little practice, you will soon be on your way to better hearing. Please read the entire contents of this booklet before using your hearing instruments. It contains instructions and important information about the use and handling of your hearing instruments and batteries.
Introduction The following instruments are covered in these instructions: Bernafon Veras IFU micro BTE Veras Micro BTE VR_ILU_microBTEwithHook_BW_HI VR9 M VR7 M VR5 M Bernafon Veras IFU compact BTE Veras Compact Power BTE VR_ILU_compactBTEwithHook_BW_HI VR9 CP VR7 CP VR5 CP Note: The instruments are available either with earhook or Spira Flex sound tube.
Bernafon Veras IFU micro BTE VR_ILU_microBTEwithSpira_BW_HI Description of features 3 2 2a 4 1 1 5 6 9 1 2 2a 3 4 8 Multi control Microphone Second microphone Adapter Spira Flex sound tube 7 5 Sound outlet 6 Dome 7 Concha clip 8 Battery drawer Bernafon Veras IFU micro BTE 9 Direct Audio Input VR_ILU_Left-rightEarMarkingMicroBTE_BW_HI (with an optional DAI adapter) Left/Right ear marking A color marking inside the battery drawer can help you distinguish the left and right instruments.
Bernafon Veras IFU micro BTE Description of features VR_ILU_microBTEwithHook_BW_HI 3 2 4 2a 1 1 6 1 2 2a 3 Multi control Microphone Second microphone Earhook 5 4 Sound outlet 5 Battery drawer 6 Direct Audio Input (with an optional DAI adapter) Earmold (used with earhook) 2 1 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 Canal Sound outlet Tubing Helix Vent 9
Inserting instruments with an earmold Bernafon Veras IFU micro BTE VR_ILU_InsertingMicroBTEhook1_BW_HI It takes patience and practice to insert your earmold correctly. If you have difficulty, please consult your hearing care professional. • Hold the earmold by the tubing so that the helix part is pointing straight up and the canal part is pointing at the ear canal entrance. • Insert the canal part into your ear canal, twisting slightly to ease the helix portion into place.
VR_ILU_InsertingMicroBTEhook2_BW_HI • Run your index finger down the skin just in front of your ear. If you can touch the helix part of the earmold, it is not inserted correctly. Gently push it behind the fold of your ear. • Lift the hearing instrument into place behind your ear. Be careful not to twist the tubing.
Removing earmold and hearing instruments • Lift the instrument from your ear first. • Push the back of your ear with your thumb to loosen the helix part of the earmold, then use your index finger to remove it. • Grasp the helix part of the earmold and twist it forward. • Gently pull the earmold straight out of the ear, holding on to the helix part of the mold. Important: Do not remove the earmold by pulling on the hearing instrument.
Inserting instruments with a Spira Flex sound tubeBernafon Veras IFU micro BTE VR_ILU_InsertingMicroBTEspira1_BW_HI Practice inserting your sound tube correctly. • First, position the hearing instrument behind your ear. • Grasp the bend of the sound tube and gently push the dome into your ear canal until the tube rests against the side of your head. • Push the ear grip into the bowl of your ear.
Removing your instruments and Spira Flex sound tube • Grasp the bend of the sound tube and gently pull the tube and dome out of your ear. • Lift the instrument from behind your ear. Important: Do not remove the sound tube and dome by pulling on the hearing instrument. This might disconnect the instrument from the sound tube.
Operating your instruments (ON/OFF) Click “ON” Click “OFF” To turn the instrument ON Close the battery door completely. The hearing instrument will emit one long beep when it starts up. To turn the instrument OFF Open the battery door slightly until a click is felt. Important: Never force the battery drawer open or closed.
Bernafon Veras IFU micro BTE Changing the volume level VR_ILU_MultiControlMicroBTE_BW_HI To increase the volume Give a short press to the upper button on the Multi Control, repeating until you reach the desired loudness level. You will hear a beep when you reach the programmed maximum. To decrease the volume Give a short press to the lower button on the Multi Control, repeating until you reach the desired loudness level. You will hear a beep when you reach the programmed minimum.
Changing programs Your hearing instrument can be configured with 3 to 4 listening programs. Please see page 50 to find out which programs have been configured for your hearing instruments. You can change programs as follows: Multi Control A long press (about 2 seconds) on either the upper or lower button will change the program. The number of beeps you hear will tell you which program you are in. RC-P or SoundGate The program can be changed with either of these devices.
Telecoil function The telecoil helps you hear better when using a telephone or in buildings where inductive loop systems are installed (places of worship, halls, theatres, etc.). When the telecoil is active, you hear directly through the telephone or inductive loop. To access the telecoil, go to the telecoil program. See page 50. This symbol or a similar sign should be displayed wherever a permanent loop has been installed. Note: Not all telephones are compatible with hearing instruments.
Telephone use Auto Telephone Your instrument has an Auto Telephone functionality. When the hearing instrument is close to a telephone receiver, the Auto Telephone will activate a phone program. When you endIFU your Bernafon Veras micro BTE conversation, the hearing instrument will autoVR_ILU_AutophoneControlMicroBTE_BW_HI matically return to the previous program. Note: All telephones can activate the Auto Telephone. The telephone receiver may need to have a special magnet fitted.
Your hearing care professional can configure your instruments to allow answering the phone on both ears or on your preferred ear. If you have a preferred ear, the instrument on the opposite side can be programmed to sound softer or to mute when the Auto Telephone is active. Please see page 52 to find out how your instruments are configured. Warning • Keep magnets out of reach of children and pets. If a magnet is swallowed, see a doctor immediately.
Changing the battery When the battery is about to run out, the instrument will beep at regular intervals. The battery should be replaced immediately. The following battery sizes are used: Bernafon Veras IFU micro BTE – Micro BTE: size 312 battery VR_ILU_BatteryReplacementMicroBTEout_BW_HI – Compact Power BTE: size 13 battery • Gently swing the battery drawer fully open, but do not force it. • Take out the used battery. • Remove the sticker from the new battery.
Bernafon Veras IFU micro BTE VR_ILU_TamperResitantBatteryDrawerMicroBTE2_BW_HI Optional tamper-resistant battery drawer for Veras Micro BTEs • Insert a small screwdriver into the screw. • Turn it 90 degrees to lock or unlock the battery drawer. Optional tamper-resistant battery drawer for Veras Compact BTEs • Insert a small screwdriver or a pen into the slit in the bottom of the instrument and push to open.
Important battery information • Battery life will vary with conditions of use (batteries will run down faster in noisy environments). • Always keep spare batteries on hand. • A used battery should be replaced immediately. • If you are not going to use your hearing instruments for a few days, remove the batteries. • Any moisture found on a battery should be wiped off immediately with a soft cloth. • Used batteries should be returned to your battery supplier or hearing care professional for safe disposal.
Data logging and learning Data logging The data log automatically stores information about your use of the hearing instruments such as changes made to the volume control, hours of wear, etc. This information can be used by your hearing care professional to adjust your instruments. If you do not want this feature to be active, please ask your hearing care professional to turn it off.
Direct Audio Input and FM A Direct Audio Input (DAI) adapter allows your hearing instrument to receive signals directly from external sources such as TV, personal stereos, etc. An FM receiver allows your instrument to receive signals directly fromBernafon an external wireVeras IFU micro BTE less FM transmitter. VR_ILU_DaiFMAdapterOnMicroBTE_BW_HI Mounting of DAI adapters • Open the battery drawer. • Slide the DAI adapter onto the instrument. • Close the battery drawer.
Warning The safety of hearing instruments with DAI is determined by the external signal source. When the DAI is connected to an electrically powered device, the equipment must comply with EN 60601-1-1, EN 60065 or equivalent safety standards.
Operating the hearing instruments with the optional RC-P remote control If you have purchased a remote control you can use it to change programs, adjust the volume level up and down, or mute the instruments. For complete operating instructions, please read the separate RC-P remote control instructions for use booklet.
Operating the instrument with the optional SoundGate communication device (VR9 and VR7 BTEs only) If you have purchased a SoundGate you may use it to perform basic functions such as program changes and volume adjustments. In addition, the SoundGate serves as a link between your hearing instruments and external sources such as music players, cell phones, computers, etc. For complete operating instructions, please read the separate SoundGate instructions for use booklet.
Instrument care Healthy ears produce a waxy substance that can clog your hearing instruments. Please follow these cleaning instructions to prevent wax build-up and ensure optimal performance of your instruments. Every night • Check your instruments for ear wax and wipe them clean with a cloth or tissue. • If necessary, use the cleaning tool to remove wax from the canal and vent openings on your earmold. • Open the battery drawer fully to allow air to circulate.
If you have an earmold You should wash your earmolds regularly. The hearing instrument itself must never be washed or allowed to get wet! Bernafon Veras IFU micro BTE • Handle your instruments over a soft surface to avoid damage in case you drop them. VR_ILU_CleaningEarmoldAttachMicroBTE_BW_HI • Disconnect the earmold from the hearing instrument by grasping the end of the hook firmly with one hand and grasping the tubing firmly with the other hand. • Pull the tubing away from the earhook.
Cleaning the Spira Flex thin sound tube system If you have the sound tube system, make sure that the tube and dome are kept free of ear wax at all times. • Grasp the adapter firmly and disconnect the sound tube from the instrument by pulling it off. • Use a soft dry cloth or tissue to clean the outside of the sound tube and dome. • To remove wax from the sound tube, insert the cleaning floss at the connector end. Push the floss all the way into the sound tube until it comes out through the dome.
Exchanging the dome The dome should be changed regularly. The frequency of dome changes will depend on how fast ear wax builds up on the dome. Spare domes can be obtained from your hearing care professional. • Remove the old dome by pulling it off the end of the sound tube. • With clean fingers, push a new dome as far as possible onto the sound tube. When attached correctly, the dome should touch the plastic ring around the sound tube.
Exchanging the Spira Flex sound tube If the sound tube becomes discolored, stiff or brittle, it should be replaced. • Hold the instrument by the adapter and grasp the tube close to the connector. • Pull firmly to remove the old tube. Bernafon Veras IFU micro BTE • Attach the new sound tube by pushing it firmly VR_ILU_ExchangingSpiraMicroBTE_BW_HI into the connector.
Avoid heat, humidity and chemicals • Do not expose hearing instruments to extreme heat by leaving them in the car, near a radiator, etc. • Avoid exposing your instruments to moisture i.e. steambaths, showers, heavy rain, etc. • Never attempt to dry your instruments with a hair dryer, microwave oven, etc. • Remove your instruments before applying aftershave, hairspray, oils, perfume, mosquito repellent, lotions, etc. Allow the product to dry before wearing your instruments.
Using your hearing instruments Hearing instruments do not restore perfect hearing. They make sounds louder and help you make the most of the hearing you have. While some immediate benefit is usually noticed, it often takes several weeks for your brain to adapt to the new sounds. The following tips will help you learn to use your instruments. If you have trouble adjusting, consult your hearing care professional. Getting started • Wear your instruments at home in a quiet environment.
• You may notice that your own voice sounds louder. If the voices of others are at a comfortable level, try speaking at a lower volume. • Sounds like footsteps, chirping birds, rustling paper, etc. may seem quite loud at first because you probably haven’t heard them for awhile. They will soon fade to the background. Dining out • Start with a quiet restaurant (no music or entertainment). • Request a table away from the kitchen and other noisy areas. • Conversation will be easier in a smaller group.
Attending theatre, concerts, lectures, etc. • Ask if there is a loop system available. If not, request to be seated near the front. • Try to sit with your better ear closer to the sound source. • Become familiar with the program in advance to make it easier to follow. At work • Inform your co-workers about your hearing loss. • If you hear only part of a conversation, repeat what you have heard and ask for the missing information.
Using the telephone • Hold the receiver close to the microphone inlet of your hearing instrument. If this causes whistling, move the receiver away a small distance. • If voices over the telephone are too soft or background noise is a problem, use the telecoil (be aware that not all phones are telecoil compatible). • When using the telecoil, hold the phone behind the ear, next to your hearing instrument for better reception. • Mobile phones may cause interference with the telecoil.
Environmental protection Your hearing instruments contain electronic components subject to the Directive 2002/96/EC on waste electrical and electronic equipment. Help to protect the environment by not disposing of your hearing instruments or batteries with your unsorted household waste. Please recycle your hearing instruments and batteries according to your local regulations or return them to your hearing care professional for disposal.
Product approval, markings and compliance All Bernafon Veras hearing instrument models comply with international standards concerning electromagnetic compatibility. Due to the limited size available on the instruments all relevant approval markings are found in this document. Electromagnetic interference Your hearing instrument has been thoroughly tested for electromagnetic interference. However, some products may emit electromagnetic energy causing unforeseen interference with hearing instruments.
Your hearing instruments may contain a radio transmitter using short range magnetic induction technology working at 3.84 MHz. The magnetic field strength of the transmitter is < –42 dBμA/m @ 10 m. The electromagnetic emission from the radio system is well below international limits for human exposure. By comparison, the electromagnetic energy of the hearing instrument is lower than that generated by household items such as halogen lamps, computer monitors, dishwashers etc.
Compliance with radio communications requirements for the USA and Canada Bernafon AG Veras hearing instrument models VR9 M; VR7 M; VR5 M; VR9 CP; VR7 CP; VR5 CP FCC ID U6XFUBTE02 IC: 7031A-FUBTE02 Statement of compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules and RSS-210 of Industry Canada.
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.
Caution: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Bernafon AG could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Compliance with requirements for Europe This device is in conformance with the requirements of the Directive 93/42/EEC of the Council of the European Communities concerning medical devices, MDD. This is certified by applying the following marking: This device also complies with the essential requirements of the Directive 1999/5/EC of the European Parliament on radio equipment and telecommunications terminal equipment, R&TTE.
Declarations of conformity are available at: Bernafon AG Morgenstrasse 131 3018 Bern Switzerland 46
Cell phone and hearing instrument compatibility Some hearing instrument users have reported a buzzing sound in their instruments when they are using cell phones, indicating that the cell phone and hearing instrument may not be compatible. The compatibility of a particular hearing aid and cell phone can be predicted by adding the rating for the hearing aid immunity to the rating for the cell phone emissions (ANSI C63.
The immunity of your Veras hearing instrument is at least M2/T2. The equipment performance measurements, categories and system classifications are based upon the best information available but Bernafon cannot guarantee that all users will be satisfied.
International warranty Your hearing instruments have a limited warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty covers the hearing instruments themselves, but not accessories such as batteries, tubing, earmolds, etc. This warranty is void if a defect is the result of misuse or mistreatment. The warranty is also void if the hearing instruments have been repaired by nonauthorized service personnel.
Your hearing instrument configuration Available programs Your hearing instruments are programmed in the following way: Program 1 2 3 4 Beeps 1 2 3 4 Function When Direct Audio Input or an FM adapter is attached (instrument will start in program 2) Program Beeps 1 1 2 2 3 3 50 Function Instrument microphone DAI/FM + Mic DAI/FM only
Multi-control operation M Both volume control and program change (___ right; ___ left) M Program change only (___ right; ___ left) M Volume control only (___ right; ___ left) M No action (___ right; ___ left) Right and left instruments synchronized When this feature is active, changes made to one instrument are automatically made in the other through a wireless communication link.
Telephone use Preferred telephone ear: M Both M Right M Left Behavior of instrument on the non-telephone ear M No change M Microphone is 6 dB softer when Auto Telephone or Telephone Program is active M Instrument mutes when Auto Telephone or Telephone Program is active 52
Accessories Bernafon offers a wide range of optional accessories that may be purchased to enhance your hearing system. Depending on hearing instrument type and local regulations, the following accessories are available: • Remote control • SoundGate communication device (for wireless connection to cell phones, music players, etc.
General warnings and safety guidelines Hearing instruments and batteries can be dangerous if swallowed or improperly used. Such actions can result in severe injury, permanent hearing loss or even fatality. Familiarize yourself completely with the following general warnings before using your hearing instruments. • Hearing instruments should be used only as directed and adjusted by your trained hearing care professional. Misuse or improper adjustments can result in sudden and permanent hearing loss.
• A slap to your ear while wearing the instrument could be harmful. Avoid wearing your hearing instrument while playing contact sports (e.g. rugby, football etc.). • Be aware that use of a hearing instrument may cause excess ear wax to build up in the ear canal which may require removal by a trained medical professional. • In rare cases, a hearing aid or earmold may cause a discharge from the ear or allergic reaction. See a physician immediately if these conditions occur.
• Clean your hearing instruments and their parts on a regular basis as recommended. Microorganisms from unclean instruments may cause skin irritations. • Be careful with leaking battery liquid, as it is a hazardous substance. • Never try to recharge non-rechargeable batteries. • Never change the battery or adjust the controls of the hearing instrument in front of infants, small children and persons of mental incapacity.
• Traffic or other warning sounds may also be reduced in level by a directional microphone when these sounds are coming from behind you. • Never insert cleaning tools into the sound outlet or microphone inlet. This could damage the hearing instruments.
Common problems and solutions Problem Possible cause Instrument whistles or squeals Instrument not inserted correctly Ear wax accumulation in ear canal Earmold may be too loose Tubing may be split or improperly connected No volume, level too soft or humming noise Instrument may not be turned ON Battery may be dead or inserted wrong way Volume level too soft Instrument may be in telecoil position Ear wax accumulation in ear canal Battery contacts may be dirty or corroded Instrument sound outlet may be b
Solution Re-insert instrument Consult your hearing care professional or physician Consult your hearing care professional Consult your hearing care professional Check that the battery drawer is closed completely Insert a fresh battery Increase volume level with control on instrument or remote control Check to make sure you are in the intended program Consult your hearing care professional or physician Open and close the battery drawer several times or clean the battery contacts carefully with a dry Q-tip Che
Problem Possible cause Whirring noise, fading, weak or motor-boating sounds Battery contacts may be dirty or corroded Moisture in hearing instrument Low battery Instrument switches from ON to OFF periodically 60 Low battery
Solution Open and close the battery drawer several times or clean the battery contacts carefully with a dry Q-tip Place instrument in Dry-Aid pack. Remove battery first. Consult your hearing care professional.
Service If none of the actions, listed on the previous pages, solve the problem, contact your hearing care professional. Do not attempt to repair your hearing instruments yourself.
Canada Bernafon Canada Ltd. 500 Trillium Drive, Unit 15 Kitchener, Ontario Canada N2R 1A7 Phone +1 519 748 6669 Toll Free +1 800 265 8250 Toll Free Fax +1 888 748 9158 www.bernafon.ca Manufacturer Switzerland Bernafon AG Morgenstrasse 131 3018 Bern Phone +41 31 998 15 15 Fax +41 31 998 15 90 www.bernafon.com New Zealand Bernafon New Zealand Ltd. Level 1, Building F 27-29 William Pickering Drive Albany, Auckland 0632 Toll Free 0800 44 22 57 Telephone +64 9 415 7917 Fax +64 9 415 7916 www.bernafon.co.
