Topcat Classroom Audio System User Manual
Table of Contents OVERVIEW OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES 3 Important Safety Instructions 22 Sharemike Controls and Connections 5 System Components and Unpacking 23 Sharemike: Charging 6 Optional Components 24 Sharemike: Initial Set-Up 7 Topcat Side Panel Connections 25 Optional PageFirst Kit 8 Topcat Controls (Inside Speaker Door) 26 Activate System with Pods 9 Flexmike Controls and Connections 10 Microphone Cradle Charger MAINTENANCE & TROUBLESHOOTING 11 Media Connector Controls and Indi
OVERVIEW Important Safety Instructions 1. Do not use the apparatus near water. 2. Clean only with dry cloth. 3. Do not block any ventilation openings. 4. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. 5. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding- type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong.
Important Safety Instructions (cont.) To avoid potential equipment damage and/or serious injury, READ AND FOLLOW all safety precautions when installing the TOPCAT. WARNINGS are included throughout the procedural steps in this guide, and are repeated below for emphasis. OVERVIEW • 4 USE A LICENSED ELECTRICIAN FOR POWER CONNECTIONS. The TOPCAT system uses standard 100 – 240VAC power. Obtain the services of a licensed electrician when supplying and connecting power to the ceiling enclosure.
OVERVIEW System Components and Unpacking The standard configuration of the Topcat system includes: Topcat Access Flexmike Microphone Cradle Charger Classsroom Audio System Teacher Microphone and Power Supply OVERVIEW and Power Supply 5 NOTE ON PAIRING: The Topcat and any wireless components (microphones, Activate Station, Media Connector) are pre-paired at the Lightspeed factory as required for proper operation.
Optional Components Optional equipment which may be part of your Topcat system Power Push Status Media Connector Audio Input Level Sharemike and Power Adapter Student Microphone (Optional) Link Input OVERVIEW Tone Media Connector Power 6 Audio Output Output Mic Activate System Group Learning Pods DC Extension Cable
Topcat Side Panel Connections 1. AUX POWER INPUT CONNECTOR (optional): For use during installations where AC power is not available in the ceiling. Accepts 24VDC, 2.5A connector from an external power supply. 2. CONTACT CLOSURE: Internal relay contact closure to provide signal to notify external system based on user input. 5. TOPCAT AUDIO LINK: Digital Audio Input and Audio Output to connect one Topcat to another. 3.
Topcat Controls (Inside Speaker Door) 1. TONE AND AUDIO IN SELECTOR BUTTONS: Select tone or audio input volume for adjustment 2. LEVEL ADJUSTMENT: Adjusts level for tone or audio input volume depending on the mode selected. 3. PAGEFIRST ADJUST: Use the Adjust control to adjust the sensitivity of PageFirst if needed.
Flexmike Controls and Connections 1. POWER/MUTE SWITCH: Press and hold to power on, press to mute, press and hold to power off. Blue light: Talk White light: Mute 2. IR TRANSMITTER: For pairing to base unit. 3. IC 1 STATUS: lighted to indicate microphone is registered as MIC 1 M White: solid = Normal operation White: flashing = Linking in progress 4.
Microphone Cradle Charger OVERVIEW DC POWER PORT: Connect the 5V/1.
Media Connector Controls and Indicators (Optional) FRONT PANEL 1. POWER LIGHT White light: Power on 2. POWER BUTTON / VOLUME ADJUSTMENT: Press this button to turn the system power on or off. This also functions as an adjustment knob for the volume and tone depending on the mode selected (see 5,6,7 below). 3. STATUS LIGHT: Microphone link and pair indicators.
Media Connector Controls and Indicators BACK PANEL 1. AUDIO INPUTS: 3.5mm stereo connectors for connecting classroom audio sources to be played through audio system. 2. AUDIO OUTPUTS: 3.5mm stereo connectors for connecting to an assisted listening device (ALD) or to a computer for recording. 3. USB INPUT: Plug the USB-C end of the power cable into this USB port on the Media Connector. • The USB port supplies power to Media Connector when connected to the Media Connector power supply, or from a laptop.
SET-UP Turn Power On POWER ON SET-UP When powered on, the white LED on the Topcat speaker panel will glow. Please refer to the Topcat Installation Guide for instructions.
Set Up and Charging the Flexmike BEFORE USE, THE FLEXMIKE SHOULD BE CHARGED It will take 5-6 hours for the Flexmike to obtain a full charge. A fully charged Flexmike will last for up to 8 hours of use. If microphones are used daily, they should be charged each night. Replacement lithium polymer battery packs may only be purchased through Lightspeed Technologies (part # 77-L3.7V). Do not attempt to charge with other battery packs.
Pairing Microphones to Topcat Your system is shipped with microphones and base units pre-paired for quick and easy use. If, for any reason, you need to pair new components, follow this pairing process: 1 2 From a powered off state, point the IR transmitter lens toward the base unit (for Sharemike, the transmitter lens is located on the back of the microphone).
Pairing Topcat to Media Connector (Optional) Your system is shipped with microphones and base units pre-paired for quick and easy use. If, for any reason, you need to pair new components, follow this pairing process: 1 2 From a powered off state, point the IR transmitter lens toward the base unit (for Sharemike, the transmitter lens is located on the back of the microphone).
Optional Media Connector: Initial Set Up WALL MOUNT OR DESKTOP The Media Connector can be placed on a table surface or wall-mounted. • Choose a location that is convenient to the classroom audio sources and power supply. • It should be located 3-6 feet off of the floor to allow for good transmission. SET-UP • Do not enclose in a metal cabinet or in a location where the signal will be obstructed. 17 NOTE: The Media Connector does not require a direct line of sight to the Topcat.
Media Connector: Audio Integration Video In Interactive Display Laptop Teacher’s Flexmike HDMI Out Audio Out Topcat Access Technology Audio In Power Microphone Audio In Audio Out Link Media Connector SET-UP Media Connector 18
DAILY OPERATION Operating the Flexmike 1. AT THE START OF THE DAY, REMOVE FLEMIKE FROM THE CHARGER • The microphone will default to the Mute position, the status light will turn to white. • Place the microphone around your neck. • Press the power/mute button. The light will turn blue, indicating the microphone is active and ready to use. ALIGN WITH COLLARBONE • Adjust volume with the UP/DOWN buttons if necessary. • If Flexmike needs to be powered down for some time, press and hold the power button.
Using Your Microphone as a Wireless Audio Link You can connect your second (or third) microphone to your computer’s USB port to enable a wireless 2-way audio link. 1 2 With the appropriate USB cable (USB-C for Flexmike/Sharemike) connect your microphone to your computer’s USB port. This will also power/charge your microphone.
Using the Media Connector 1. Plug the micro USB end of the power cable into the USB port on the back of the Media Connector. Plug the other end of the cable into the USB power adaptor. Also, the USB cable could be plugged into a computer for power. 2. Connect the audio source(s) to the Media Connector using the 3.5mm cables provided. 3. Set the audio source volume to provide sound through the Topcat Access. 4.
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES Sharemike Controls and Connections 1. POWER BUTTON 2. POWER STATUS LIGHT Red light: During operation, turns red to indicate low battery White light: Normal operation OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES When charging in Cradle Charger: Red light: Charging Green light: Charging complete 22 3. IC 1 STATUS: Lighted to indicate microphone is registered as MIC 1 M White: solid = Normal operation White: flashing = Linking in process 4.
Sharemike: Charging 1. Make sure the charger is plugged into a wall outlet. Connect one end of the charging cable into the jack labeled CHARGE on the bottom of the Sharemike. 2. Plug the other end into the USB-C jack on the back of the cradle charger. 3. If the Sharemike is registered as MIC 2, the MIC 1 light on the microphone will glow red to indicate charging. 4. Leave the Sharemike plugged in overnight (8-10 hours) to obtain a full charge. The light will turn green when charging is complete. 5.
Sharemike: Initial Set-Up ENSURE THE TOPCAT IS POWERED ON • The blue light on the speaker panel of the Topcat will glow. POWER LIGHT ON TURN ON THE SHAREMIKE • Press and hold the power button until the LED lights. OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES • While speaking in a normal voice, increase the volume using the Activate Volume button or the Media Connector Microphone Volume knob until your voice is barely audible.
Optional PageFirst Kit This PageFirst feature for the Topcat interfaces with an independent classroom paging system. When the page is broadcast, all audio from the system is muted, ensuring important school-wide messages are never missed. Please note that PageFirst is not compatible with telephone or IP-based paging systems. HOW IT WORKS 1. PageFirst sensor clip is hung around a lead wire attached to the classroom paging speaker. 2. The clip is hard-wired to the amplifier. 3.
Activate System with Pods Power Link Input Output Mic For Small Group Instruction Activate with Pods is a two-way communication system that can be seamlessly added to the Topcat classroom audio system to facilitate small group instruction.
MAINTENANCE & TROUBLESHOOTING Flexmike Battery Replacement MAINTENANCE & TROUBLESHOOTING Battery part # 77-L3.7V 27 1. Push down on the latch and carefully pull the battery pack away from the Flexmike. 2. Insert new battery pack as shown and make sure the latch is secure. 3. Place the Flexmike in a cradle charger to charge the battery pack.
Sharemike Battery Replacement Battery part # 77-L3.7V MAINTENANCE & TROUBLESHOOTING 1. 28 Push down on the latch and carefully pull the battery pack away from the Sharemike. 2. Insert new battery pack as shown and make sure the latch is secure. 3. Place the Flexmike in a cradle charger to charge the battery pack. Input 1 BATTERY REMOVAL LATCH 2 Please dispose of all batteries properly. Lightspeed provides battery recycling at no charge. Contact us at 800-732-8999 for details. Available in U.S.
Troubleshooting PROBLEM: Low battery indication: Most problems are directly related to low battery power. Please run through the “Battery Check” items first. For remaining troubleshooting, use known good, fully-charged batteries. SOLUTION: Battery Check • Confirm batteries are charged each night. A solid red light on the battery status light indicates a low battery. • Confirm proper batteries are used: Flexmike and Sharemike require the Lightspeed 77-L3.7V rechargeable battery pack.
WARRANTY, SAFETY & SPECIFICATIONS Five-Year Limited Warranty WARRANTY, SAFETY & SPECIFICATIONS Lightspeed Classroom Audio Systems are guaranteed against malfunction due to defects in materials and workmanship for a period of five (5) years, beginning at the date of the purchase invoice. If such malfunction occurs, the product will be repaired or replaced (at Lightspeed’s option) without charge during the warranty period.
Safety Warnings and Certifications CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK DO NOT OPEN WARRANTY, SAFETY & SPECIFICATIONS THIS PRODUCT MUST BE INSTALLED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE APPLICABLE INSTALLATION CODE BY A PERSON FAMILIAR WITH THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF THE PRODUCT AND THE HAZARDS INVOLVED.
Précautions de Sécurité et Certifications ATTENTION RISQUE D’ÉLECTROCUTION NE PAS OUVRIR WARRANTY, SAFETY & SPECIFICATIONS CONFORMÉMENT AUX NORMES D’INSTALLATION APPLICABLES, CE PRODUIT DOIT ÊTRE INSTALLÉ PAR UNE PERSONNE FAMILIARISÉE AVEC LA CONCEPTION ET LE FONCTIONNEMENT DU PRODUIT ET CONSCIENTE DES RISQUE ENCOURUS.
Canada, Industry Canada (IC) Notices English This device complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standard(s). This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003 and CAN ICES-3(B)/ NMB-3(B).Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. The IC for this device is IC ID 1732B-LS975.
FCC Notice to user 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 undesired operation. 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.
RF Radiation Exposure Statement English Your mobile device is a radio transmitter and receiver. It is designed not to exceed the limits for exposure to radio waves (radio frequency electromagnetic fields) recommended by international guidelines. The guidelines were developed by Health Canada and include a substantial safety margin designed to assure the safety of all persons, regardless of age and health. French WARRANTY, SAFETY & SPECIFICATIONS Votre appareil mobile est un émetteur-récepteur radio.
WARRANTY, SAFETY & SPECIFICATIONS EU Declaration of Conformity 36
System Components STANDARD COMPONENTS OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES TCNG Topcat all-in-one ceiling-mount wireless audio base station INS-F6 Activate for small group instruction 24V2.5 24V/2.5A power supply for TCN INS Activate charging station with Bluetooth FSC Transceiver cradle charger, power supply 24V1.75 24V/1.
System Specifications TOPCAT Description All-in-one ceiling-mount wireless base station Panel size 16.25” x 8.25” Frequency response 60 Hz - 18 kHz (-10dB) Wireless communication Access Technology (1.9 GHz + RF4CE) Tone control 1 bass/treble control, inside cabinet Audio input One (1) 3.5mm stereo w/ volume control inside cabinet Power output 20W RMS x 2 Power input AC: 100-240V ~ 50 / 60Hz 1.5A | DC:24V / 2.
Dedicated to Access for All We strive to make a remarkable difference for teachers and students by creating Access to powerful in-the-moment insights to the learning process. Our audio and video solutions improve student engagement, enable teachers to activate small groups, and encourage collaboration. 11509 SW Herman Road Tualatin, Oregon 97062 Toll Free: 800.732.8999 Phone: 503.684.5538 Fax: 503.684.3197 lightspeed-tek.
