FAQ Here's a quick index of our most often heard FAQ's. If your question isn't in here, give us a call at 888-EARMARK or send an E-Mail to: service@earmark.com. QUESTIONS Q1: What is the difference between the 4C and 4S headset? Q2: What type of batteries should I use in my radio for best results? Q3: How long should I expect my batteries to last? Q4: What can I do if I hear bouts of static in my radios? Q5: How do I adjust the squelch on my radios? Q6: What can I do if adjusting the squelch does not help my problem? Q7:Can I get my Earmark equipment serviced locally? Q8: Can I get loaner equipment to use while my equipment is being repaired?
ANSWERS Q1: What is the difference between the 4C and 4S Headset? The Series 4S line of Radio Headsets is available only in Simplex configuration while the flagship 4C is available in all network configurations. Both are 180mW radios with high quality electronics and rugged components that ensure a long life in tough environments. The 4C, however, has some extra features including hands-free VOX (even in simplex mode) and a fully articulating boom noise-canceling microphone. The 4S is 3 ozs lighter and has only one battery (which should still last more than one shift, depending on how often your staff transmits). Generally, it is our experience that if you want lighter weight, lower price, Simplex operation with no hands-free VOX (only push to talk), the 4S radios give great service and performance. Otherwise, the 4C is the optimal choice. Q2: What type of batteries should I use in my Radio for best results? For best results you should always use either 9volt alkaline batteries, if you prefer rechargeable batteries we recommend 8.4volt NiMH batteries. Q3: How long should I expect my batteries to last? The following table shows the expected life of your batteries in hours for each type of radio. Headset Model # | # of Batteries | Battery Life (hours) | | | 9v Alkaline | 8.4v NiMH | HS-4 | 2 | 35-40 | 14-16 | HH-4 | 2 | 35-40 | 14-16 | HR-4 | 2 | 14-16 | 6-8 | HG-4 | 2 | 14-16 | 6-8 | HS-4S | 1 | 15-20 | 7-8 | PSB-4 | 2 | 35-40 | 14-16 | PHB-4 | 2 | 35-40 | 14-16 | PRB-4 | 2 | 14-16 | 6-8 | PGB-4 | 2 | 14-16 | 6-8 |
Q4: What can I do if I hear bouts of static in my radios? If you are experiencing static in your headset that is either constant or intermittent it is possible it can be taken care of with a simple squelch adjustment. To determine if such an adjustment will possibly help solve your problem, determine whether the static stops when another radio transmits to yours. If it does, you may have a problem with something called "squelch" in your radios, something that is easily adjusted. Q5: How do I adjust the squelch on my radios? Adjusting the squelch setting (sensitivity) of a radio can often eliminate Intermittent or constant static that does not interfere with the reception of signals from other radios. The squelch is adjusted in the factory, however we cannot always simulate the same machine noise in the various environments where our radios are used so some adjustment may be necessary. For best results, ensure no one is transmitting and adjust the squelch in the area and with the noise levels that match your normal work conditions. Turn the radio on and turn the volume all the way up.  | Locate the squelch adjustment on your radio. For headsets it is located inside the receiver ear cup above the speaker (under the circular vinyl patch ...the receiver side is the side where the volume knob is), and in the belt-pak it can be accessed by removing the screw on the back labeled squelch adjust. |
Carefully insert a small screwdriver and turn the adjustment all the way to the left (open). You should hear constant static. Slowly turn the squelch back to the right (closed) until the noise stops. You may be required to adjust the squelch a few times to get it set just right. It is also a good idea to test the range of your headset after adjusting the squelch. It may seem like a good idea to either open the squelch all the way to maximize range or close it all the way to reduce the chance of interference, however this is mot recommended. If you open the squelch all the way you make your radio vulnerable to interfering signals, on the other hand, if you close the squelch all the way you will compromise your range. Q6: What can I do if adjusting the squelch does not help my problem? If adjusting the squelch does not help clear up your static problems, your radio may need to be serviced. Contact us and describe your problem and we will get in touch with you with ideas to solve the problem or to tell you to send the equipment back to be serviced here. You can find the service procedure and warranty information by clicking here. Q7: Can I get my Earmark equipment serviced locally? No, the only authorized repair facility for Earmark equipment is Earmark itself. Q8: Can I get loaner equipment to use while my equipment is being repaired? Earmark headsets are custom built and the frequencies they are set to is based on the location of the end user. As a result we do not keep headsets in stock so we do not have anything to send out while repairing equipment as a loaner. In most cases it would take us longer to get replacement equipment out than it would to repair the radios you have.
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