CHRONOS 9 CHRONOS 7 CHRONOS 5 Nano RITE Receiver-in-the-ear INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
TABLE OF CONTENTS General Warnings and Safety Guidelines 7 Introduction 11 Description of Features 12 Ear Piece Overview 14 Placement 15 Removal 17 Operating your Instruments (ON/OFF) 18 Changing the Volume Level 19 Changing Programs 20 Muting 21 Telecoil Function 22 Telephone Use 23 Changing the Battery 25 Data Logging and Learning 27 Operating the Hearing Instruments with the Optional RC-P Remote C ontrol 28 3
Operating the Hearing Instruments with the Optional SoundGate Communication Device 29 Instrument Care 30 Using your Hearing Instruments 36 Tips for Communicating with Hearing Impaired People (Suggestions for Family Members and Friends) 40 Your Hearing Instrument Configuration 41 Accessories 44 Environmental Protection 45 Product Approval, Markings and Compliance 46 Cell Phone and Hearing Instrument Compatibility 48 International Warranty 50 Common Problems and Solutions 52 Compliance
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.
General Warnings and Safety G uidelines 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 instrument 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.
·· 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.
Introduction The following instruments are covered in these instructions: Chronos Nano RITE CN9 NR CN7 NR CN5 NR CN_ILLU_NR_InstrumentwithSpeaker_BW_HI 11
Description of Features 1 2 2a 3 4 5 Push button Microphone Second microphone Connector plug Wire Left/right indicator 2 6 Speaker 7 Speaker unit size marking 8 Battery drawer 9 Ear grip 10 NoWax filter 3 2a 4 1 6 5 7 8 9 10 CN_ILLU_NR_InstrumentwithSpeaker_BW_HI 12
VR_ILU_Left-rightEarMarkingNanoBTE_BW_HI Left/right ear marking A color marking inside the battery drawer can help you to distinguish between the left and right instruments.
Ear Piece Overview Domes, Micro Molds and Power Molds are ear pieces used to secure the speaker in your ear canal and to protect the sound outlet (20) from wax. The Micro Mold has a marking (21) (red = right; blue = left). The marking should point upwards in the ear canal. The removal cord (22) is for easy removal.
Placement It takes patience and practice to insert your speaker correctly. If you have difficulty, please consult your hearing care professional. ·· Look for the side marking: left = blue; right = red. ·· Make sure the dome is pushed firmly onto the speaker. ·· Position the hearing instrument behind your ear. ·· Grasp the speaker between your thumb and index finger. The dome or Micro Mold should point towards the ear canal opening.
·· If you have an ear grip attached to the speaker, gently push it into your ear as shown. ·· When looking in the mirror the speaker should be difficult to see. Important: Never insert the speaker in the ear canal without the dome attached. Do not force the speaker too deeply into your ear canal. Do not apply any lubrication to the ear piece as this may damage the speaker.
Removal To remove the speaker, grasp the wire between your thumb and index finger. Do not pull on the ear grip. Gently pull the speaker out of your ear. If the dome is not correctly attached and falls off in the ear canal, please see your medical practitioner. Important: Do not remove by pulling on the hearing instrument, as the speaker may be damaged at the connector.
Operating your Instruments (ON/OFF) VR_ILU_OnOffFunctionNanoBTE_BW_HI 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. Keep your hearing instrument switched off when not worn. Important: Never force the battery drawer open or closed.
Changing the Volume Level The instrument automatically adjusts the volume to the changing sound environment. If you desire to manipulate the volume yourself, your hearing care professional can program the push button to be used as a volume control. Please see page 42 to see how this has been configured for your hearing instruments. You may also use the optional RC-P remote control or the SoundGate communication device for this purpose.
Changing Programs Your hearing instrument can be configured with up to 4 listening programs. Please see page 41 to find out which programs have been configured for your hearing instruments. You can change programs as follows: Push button A press on the button will cause the program to change. This will take 1 – 2 seconds until you hear the program change. 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.
Muting Your hearing instruments can be muted by using the push button (long press) on the hearing instruments or via the optional RC-P remote control. Please see page 42 to see how the push button has been configured or the instructions for use that are included with the optional RC-P remote. To un-mute the hearing instruments give any control on the instrument, SoundGate or RC-P a push.
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 a telecoil program. See page 41. 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 end your conversation, the hearing instrument will automatically return to the previous program. Bernafon Veras IFU micro BTE VR_ILU_AutophoneControlMicroBTE_BW_HI 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 you to answer the phone with either ear or with just 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 43 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 running out, the instrument will beep at regular intervals. You should be prepared to replace the battery. The time until the instruments stop working depends on the battery type and manufacturer. Mercury-free batteries generally cause earlier warning beeps. Your hearing instrument uses a size 312 battery. To change a battery: ·· Gently swing the battery drawer fully open, but do not force it. ·· Remove the used battery. ·· Remove the sticker from the new battery.
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 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.
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 Hearing Instruments with the Optional SoundGate Communication Device 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 block your speaker. Please follow these cleaning instructions to prevent wax build-up and ensure optimal performance of your instruments. Every night ·· Check your hearing instrument for ear wax and wipe it clean with a cloth or tissue. ·· Clean the speaker unit and dome with a cloth or tissue. If you find ear wax remaining on the dome, exchange it. When the dome comes off, never put it back onto the speaker, but replace it with a new one.
General care instructions Treat your hearing instrument like any other delicate electronic device (check the safety guidelines on page 7) and make sure that the instrument and the speaker do not get in contact with moisture or water. – Always clean and dry your hands thoroughly before manipulating the instrument. – Do not use your hearing instrument without a dome or mold. – Do not pull the speaker off the hearing instrument.
Exchanging the dome The dome should be changed regularly. The frequency of dome changes will depend on how fast ear wax accumulates on the dome. Inspect your instrument’s dome for yellowing, hardening and cracks. In the case of these changes, consider replacing your dome or contacting your hearing care professional. Spare domes may be obtained from your hearing care professional. ·· Clean your hands thoroughly before replacing the dome. Never change the dome with wet or dirty fingers.
Exchanging the dome 1) Hold the end of the dome between your fingers and pull it off. 2) Take a fresh dome out of the package. 3) Place the new dome on the speaker so it fits securely.
Cleaning the Micro and Power Mold Clean your Micro/Power Mold after every use by wiping it with a clean dry cloth. In most cases, there is a hole through the Micro/Power Mold (below the speaker unit). This is the vent. If the vent is plugged with wax, insert the cleaning tool (supplied) from the opposite end (nearest the speaker wire), and push through to remove the wax. Replace the wax protection (WaxStop) whenever needed following this procedure: 1) Take the stick with the new WaxStop on it (1).
2) Insert the removal plug (2) into the opening of the used WaxStop and pull it slowly out. Keep the stick straight. 3) To insert the new WaxStop turn the stick around and place the new filter in the sound outlet and gently remove the stick. CN_ILLU_NRWaxStopChanging1_BW_HI CN_ILLU_NRWaxStopChanging_BW_HI 4) A WaxStop cannot be reused; safely throw the stick away.
Using your Hearing Instruments Hearing instruments do not restore perfect hearing. They make sounds louder and help you to make the most of the hearing that you have. While some immediate benefit is usually noticed, it often takes several weeks for your brain to adapt to your new instruments. The following tips will help you learn to use your hearing instruments. If you have trouble adjusting to them, consult your hearing care professional.
·· 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 a while. 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. ·· Try to sit with your better ear closer to the sound source, if possible. ·· Become familiar with the program in advance to make it easier to follow. ·· Inquire if a loop is available. If not, sit towards the front ·· If your hearing is similar in both ears, sit in the middle At work ·· Inform your co-workers about your hearing loss and teach them to talk clearly. Keep eye contact when conversing. ·· Focus on the person nearest to you.
Hearing on 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.
Tips for Communicating with Hearing Impaired People (Suggestions for Family Members and Friends) ·· Speech should be clear and distinct. Some people may need to slow down a little but if speech is too slow it can be even more difficult to understand. ·· Do not shout! Many people with hearing impairment are very sensitive to loud sounds. ·· If you are having difficulty being understood, rephrase the statement rather than repeating the same words several times.
Your Hearing Instrument Configuration Available programs Your hearing instruments are programmed in the following way: Program 1 2 3 4 Beeps Function 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.
Push button (two Nano hearing instruments) left right Short push (less than 1 sec.) h volume down h volume up Medium push (about 1 sec.) h program change h program change h synchronized Long push (about 2 sec.) h mute h mute h synchronized Push button (one Nano hearing instrument) Short push (less than 1 sec.) h volume down Medium push (about 1 sec.) h volume up Long push (about 2 sec.) h program change Note: It is not possible to mute the hearing instrument in a monaural fitting.
Telephone use Preferred telephone ear: M Both M Right M Left Behavior of instrument on the non-telephone ear M No change M The microphone is softer when the Auto Telephone or Telephone Program is active M The instrument mutes when the Auto Telephone or Telephone Program is active 43
Accessories Bernafon offers a wide range of optional a ccessories that may be purchased to enhance your hearing system. Depending on hearing instrument type and local regulations, the following accessories are available: ·· Remote control (RC-P) ·· SoundGate communication device (for wireless connection to cell phones, music players, etc.
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 Chronos 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 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.
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 instrument and cell phone can be predicted by adding the rating for the hearing instrument immunity to the rating for the cell phone emissions (ANSI C63.
The immunity of your Chronos 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.
Notes 51
Common Problems and Solutions Problem Possible cause Instrument whistles or squeals Speaker and dome/ mold not fully inserted Ear wax accumulation in the ear canal Earmold may be too loose No volume, level too soft or humming noise Instrument may not be turned ON Instrument may be muted Battery may be dead or inserted upside down Volume level too soft 52
Solution Re-insert the speaker and dome/mold Consult your hearing care professional or physician Consult your hearing care professional Check that the battery drawer is closed completely Press any button on the remote control or hearing instrument to unmute Insert a fresh battery or re-insert the battery correctly Increase the volume level with the control on the instrument or remote control 53
Problem Possible cause No volume, level too soft or humming noise Instrument may be in telecoil position Wax filter blocked by ear wax Dome/Mold may be blocked by ear wax Ear wax accumulation in the ear canal Battery contacts may be dirty or corroded Speaker may be blocked Microphone sound inlet may be blocked 54
Solution Check to make sure you are in the intended program Replace the wax filter Exchange the dome Consult your hearing care professional or physician Open and close the battery drawer several times or clean the battery contacts carefully with a clean dry cotton swab Consult your hearing care professional for changing Consult your hearing care professional, do not try to clean this yourself 55
Problem Possible cause No volume, level too soft or humming noise Your hearing loss may have increased Whirring noise, fading, weak or motor-boating sounds Battery contacts may be dirty or corroded Moisture in the hearing instrument Low battery Instrument switches from ON to OFF periodically 56 Low battery
Solution Consult your hearing care professional Open and close the battery drawer several times or clean the battery contacts carefully with a clean dry cotton swab Place instrument in Dry-Aid pack. Remove the battery first. Consult your hearing care professional.
Problem Possible cause Instrument beeps without any action from you (e.g.
Solution Insert a fresh battery Carefully remove the dome.
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.
Declaration of conformity is available at: Bernafon AG Morgenstrasse 131 3018 Bern Switzerland 61
Compliance with Radio Communi cations Requirements for the USA and Canada Bernafon AG Chronos Nano RITE hearing instrument model names CN9 NR; CN7 NR; CN5 NR FCC ID IC: U6XFURITE2 7031A-FURITE2 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.
Notes 65
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.
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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 Manufacturer New Zealand Bernafon New Zealand Ltd.
