DIGITAL VOICE Getting started 1 RECORDER Recording 2
Playback 3 VN-541PC Editing 4 Use with a PC 5
Other information 6
USER MANUAL
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Thank you for purchasing an Olympus digital voice recorder. Please read these instructions for information about using the product correctly and safely. Keep the instructions handy for future reference.
• To ensure successful recording, we recommend that you test the record function and volume before use. • If there are additions and/or modifications of functions due to firmware update, contents may differ. For the latest information, please visit Olympus website. Table of contents
Names of parts...... 4 3 Playback
1 Getting started Playback...... 15 Basic playback procedure...... 15 Setup...... 5 Fast-forwarding...... 16 Inserting the batteries...... 6 Rewinding...... 17 Turning the power ON...... 7 Skipping to the beginning of a file ...... 17 Setting the time/date...... 7 Playback through the earphones...... 18 Setting the beeping sounds...... 8 Changing the playback speed...... 19 Batteries...... 9 Repeat playback...... 20 Turning the power OFF...... 9 Folder/File repeat playback...... 20 Preventing accidental operation..... 10 A/B repeat playback...... 20 Setting HOLD mode...... 10 Reducing noise during playback Releasing HOLD mode...... 10 (Noise Cancel)...... 21
2 Recording 4 Editing
Recording...... 11 Changing the information screen.... 22 Changing the recording scene...... 11 Preventing accidental file erasure Basic recording procedure...... 12 (File Lock)...... 22 Monitoring while recording...... 13 Recording with an external microphone....13 Index marks/temp marks...... 23 Writing an index mark/temp mark...... 23 Recording from another connected Erasing an index mark/temp mark...... 23 device...... 14 Recording audio from another device with Erasing files...... 24 Erase a single file...... 24 this recorder...... 14 Erase all the files in the folder...... 24 Recording audio from this recorder with another device...... 14 Formatting the internal memory.... 26
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2 Table of contents
5 Use with a PC Indications used in this manual
PC operating environment...... 27 NOTE PC connection/disconnection...... 28 Describes precautions and operations that Connecting the voice recorder to a PC...... 28 should be absolutely avoided in using the Disconnecting the voice recorder voice recorder. from a PC...... 29 TIP Loading a file to a PC...... 30 Describes useful information and hints that will help you getting the most out of your 6 Other information voice recorder. Troubleshooting...... 31 ☞ Recorder care...... 33 Indicates reference pages describing details Accessories (optional)...... 34 or related information. Copyright and trademark This manual is advanced version. Additionally, information...... 35 the basic version (Basic Manual), which Safety precautions...... 36 summarizes basic operation, is also included Specifications...... 40 with this product.
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3 Names of parts
1 0 1 2 3 4 5 2
Names of parts 6 3 7 4 ! @ 8 5 # 9 6 $ 7 % 8 ^ & * 9 (
Recorder ! LED indicator light files in folder, @ o (power, hold) A/B repeat 1 Built-in microphone button 4 Volume 2 m (microphone) jack # REC (record) switch 5 Battery 3 Display $ + button 6 Folder (recording scene) 4 USB connector % 9 button 7 Voice recorder status 5 l (index/repeat) ^ k (erase) button (recording, playback, button & – button fast playback, slow 6 n (recording playback) * Battery cover scene, folder/noise 8 Time and date, ( cancel) button Strap hole Recording scene 7 p (playback, pause) 9 Display Indicator display button area (recording date, 8 0 button 1 Repeat time and date, remain, 9 Built-in speaker 2 File lock index/temp mark, erase, noise cancel, 0 q (earphone) jack 3 File number/Total hold, format, beep) EN number of recorded 4 Getting started
This product is a voice recorder that is easy to use for all age groups, from children to Setup senior citizens. It can be used in a range of situations, such as in business, or recording After unpacking the voice recorder, follow the 1 memos. steps below to have it ready for use. Setup Usage examples Getting Inserting the batteries started 1 3 Getting Turning the power ON started 2 3 Getting Setting the time/date started 3 Set the voice recorder’s clock for 3 use with file management. Recording meetings and discussions means that if you miss something important, you Getting Setting the beeping started can listen to it again as many times as you like 4 sounds to confirm the content. This recorder also features Noise Cancel function useful for transcription, as well as faster and slower playback.
Record messages as well as changes to schedules instead Remove the screen of taking memos. Simple protector on the one-handed recording display. means it is easier than writing in a notebook. ×
This voice recorder can also be connected to a PC, and used as mass USB storage. This is convenient for transferring large files such as image data EN between computers. 5 Setup
Inserting the batteries
1 Before using the voice recorder, insert the batteries in the battery compartment of the voice recorder. Setup 1 Slide open the battery cover 3 Slide the battery cover while pressing down on it. completely closed.
1 2 1
2
2 Insert the batteries, making • Do not close the battery cover while sure its positive and negative the batteries are still loose. terminals are placed correctly.
1 2
Insert the battery’s negative terminal first.
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6 Setup
Turning the power ON Setting the time/date
1 While the voice recorder is turned Set the time and date beforehand to enable 1 off, press and hold the o button. easier management of recorded files. Setup 1 Press the 9 (p) or 0 button to select the desired setting item.
TIP • If you install batteries for the first time or replaced with new ones, the [hour] 2 Press the + or – button to change indicator will flash automatically when the power is turned on. the number.
• To change the setting of another item, press the 9 or 0 button to move the blinking cursor, then press the + or – button to change the number. 3 Press the p button to finalize the setting.
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7 Setup
TIP Setting the beeping sounds • When setting the hour or minute, each 1 time you press the n button the The voice recorder makes beeping sounds display changes between the AM/PM when buttons are pressed, or to warn in case
Setup and 24-hour clock formats. of operation errors. You can select whether Example: 10 : 38 PM the voice recorder makes these beeping PM 10 : 38 22 : 38 sounds. (default format) 1 Press the 9 or 0 button to • When setting the year, month or date, select [ON] or [OFF]. each time you press the n button the display order used for the date changes. Example: March 24, 2016 03. 24. ,16 24. 03. ,16 (default format)
[ON] NOTE Enables beeping sounds. • If the batteries in the voice recorder are [OFF] replaced with new ones, the [DATE] Disables beeping sounds. screen is displayed automatically when the power is turned on. 2 Press the p button to finalize • Even if the voice recorder is not used the setting. for a long period of time, when the • After beeping sound has been set, batteries are used up, the time and date version information will be displayed, must be re-entered. and then voice recorder will enter stop mode.
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8 Batteries Turning the power OFF
Battery indicator Existing data, mode settings and the clock setting are saved when the power is turned off. As the battery loses its remaining charge, the battery indicator on the display changes as 1 follows: 1 Press and hold the o button while the voice recorder is in stop mode. Batteries/Turning the power OFF
• [ ] indicates there is little remaining battery charge. Replace it with a fresh one. When the batteries has run out, [ ] and [LO] appear, and operation stops.
Battery precautions TIP • The voice recorder does not support manganese batteries. • Turning the power OFF whenever the • Always turn power OFF before replacing voice recorder is not in use minimizes the batteries. Files may be damaged if battery consumption. the batteries are removed while the voice recorder is recording or performing an operation such as erasing a file. Power Save mode • You need to reset the time/date if the batteries are replaced. See “Setting the When the voice recorder has been time/date” (☞ P. 7) for the procedure. stopped for at least 5 minutes after power • When not using the voice recorder for ON, the power turns off automatically. an extended period, always remove the batteries before storage. • Even if the battery indicator is [ ], playback with the built-in speaker at some volumes may result in a drop in battery output voltage, causing the voice recorder to reset. Lower the volume in this case. • The continuous battery usage time will vary depending on the performance of the battery in use (☞ P. 41).
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9 Preventing accidental operation
Setting the voice recorder to HOLD mode maintains the current operation and disables button operations.
1 Setting HOLD mode Releasing HOLD mode Preventing accidental operation 1 Press and hold the o button 1 Press and hold the o button during recording or playback. during hold mode.
[HOLD] appears in the display, and the recorder enters hold TIP mode. • hold mode is automatically released • Even if in hold mode, the REC switch after recording or playback finishes. can be moved to the ON and OFF positions.
NOTE • When any button is pressed during HOLD mode, [HOLD] appears in the display for 2 seconds. No other operation is performed. • Setting HOLD mode during voice recorder playback (or recording) continues the playback (or recording) operation and prevents any other operation from being performed. (The voice recorder stops when playback ends or when recording ends because, for example, there is no remaining memory space.)
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10 Recording
Recording
You can select from four recording scenes on this voice recorder - [MEMO], [TALK], [MUSIC], and [LP]. Recorded audio will be stored in the same folder as the selected recording scenes. Each folder can store up to 199 files. 2
Changing the recording scene Recording
[MEMO] Suitable for recording your own voice and other sounds that are extremely close.
[TALK] Suitable for recording meetings held in a small space and other sounds that are fairly close.
Suitable for recording realistic audio with exceptional clarity such as live recording of a [MUSIC] musical instrument performance or out in the open air.
[LP] Suitable for recording for a long time.
1 While the voice recorder is in stop TIP mode, press the n button. • To record the speaker’s voice clearly, set a [MEMO], and place the voice recorder’s built-in microphone near the speaker’s mouth (5 to10 cm away). b
a Folder in which the recorded file is stored b Recording scene • Press the n button to switch between recording scenes.
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11 Recording
Basic recording procedure
1 Changing the recording scene TIP (☞ P. 11). • Even when the power is turned off, you 2 • Each new voice recording file is saved can immediately start recording by in the selected folder. sliding the REC switch up. Recording 2 Point the built-in microphone in the direction of the sound to NOTE record. • To prevent the beginning of the 3 Slide the REC switch to start recording being cut off, start recording after the LED indicator light has lit or recording in the direction of the recording indicator has appeared in arrow. the display. a • When the remaining possible recording time is 60 seconds, the LED indicator b light starts flashing. It flashes more rapidly as the remaining time decreases c (at the 30- and 10-second points). • If the number of files inside the recorder reached 199 or the memory a File number/Total number of becomes full, you will not be able to recorded files in folder record any further, and [FULL] will b Voice recorder status indicator be displayed. You will need to delete (during recording) unnecessary files to record more c Elapsed recording time (☞ P.24). • The LED indicator light lights. 4 Slide the REC switch to stop recording in the direction of the arrow.
d
EN d File length
12 Recording
Monitoring while recording Recording with an external microphone You can monitor the recording as you are making it by listening on the earphones You can record audio input using an external plugged into the voice recorder’s q jack. microphone or other device connected to Use the + or – button to adjust the recording the voice recorder’s m jack. Do not plug or 2 monitor volume. unplug devices into voice recorder jacks Recording • The earphones is not supplied. while recording. 1 Connect the earphones to the • Microphones with plug-in power supplies voice recorder’s q jack. can be used. 1 Connect an external microphone to the voice recorder’s m jack.
To q jack To m jack
• Changing the volume will not affect the recording level. 2 Start recording. • See “Recording” (☞ P. 12) for NOTE descriptions of recording operations. • To avoid unpleasantly loud sound, set the volume to [00] before plugging in TIP the earphone. • To prevent feedback, do not place the • See “Accessories (optional)” earphone near the microphone while (☞ P. 34) for the compatible external recording. microphones. EN
13 Recording from another connected device
Recording audio from another Recording audio from this recorder device with this recorder with another device
Audio can be recorded when you have Audio from this recorder can be recorded connected the audio output terminal to another device by connecting the audio 2 (earphone jack) of another device and the m input terminal (microphone jack) of the other
Recording from another connected deviceRecording from another connected jack of the recorder by using the connecting device and the q jack of this recorder using cord KA333 (optional). the connecting cord KA333 (optional).
To audio output terminal of other device
To audio input terminal of other device To m jack To q jack
NOTE • When recording from a connected external device, perform a test recording and adjust the output level of the connected device as needed.
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14 Playback
Playback
In addition to files recorded by the voice recorder, you can also play files in WMA format transferred from a PC.
Basic playback procedure 3 1 Select the file to play from the 2 Press the p button to start folder containing it. playback. Playback • Immediately after selecting the file, the following file information will be displayed in order. g a h b
g Voice recorder status indicator c (during playback) h Elapsed playback time 3 Press the + or – button to adjust a Current file number the volume to the desired level. d b Current folder i c Recording date d Recording time e e File length f File start i Volume • The volume can be adjusted to a f setting between [00] to [30]. The higher the number, the louder the volume. • If the volume is set too loud, a warning screen may appear.
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15 Playback
4 Press the p button to stop Fast-forwarding playback. • The file being played stops right away. The resume function automatically stores the playback stop position in memory. The position is retained even if the power is turned off. The next time the power is turned on, playback can be resumed from the stop position 3 stored in the memory. • If the end of a file is reached without Playback the p button being pressed, then it will stop at the beginning of the next file. 1 Press and hold the 9 button during playback. • Playback starts from the current position when you release the 9 button. • If an index mark or temp mark in the file is reached, fast-forwarding stops at the mark (☞ P. 23). • Fast-forwarding stops when the end of the file is reached.
TIP • Press the 9 button during playback to skip forward 10 seconds.
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16 Playback
Rewinding Skipping to the beginning of a file
3 Playback
1 Press and hold the 0 button Skipping to the beginning of the during playback. next file • Playback starts from the current position when you release the 0 1 Press the 9 button while the button. voice recorder is in stop mode. • If an index mark or temp mark in the file is reached, rewinding stops at the Skipping to the beginning of the mark (☞ P. 23). current file • Rewinding stops when the beginning of the file is reached. 1 Press the 0 button while the voice recorder is in stop mode. TIP Skipping to the beginning of the • Press the 0 button during playback to rewind 3 seconds. previous file 1 Press the 0 button when the playback position is the beginning of the file.
TIP • To skip the files continuously, pressing the 9 or 0 button while the recorder is in stop mode.
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17 Playback
Playback through the earphones Music files
If a music file transferred to the voice recorder You can connect the earphones to the voice is unplayable, check that its sampling rate, recorder’s q jack and listen to playback bit count and bit rate values are within the through them. supported ranges. The sampling rate, bit • The earphones are optional. count and bit rate combinations supported 1 Connect the earphones to the for music file playback by the voice recorder are shown below. 3 voice recorder’s q jack. Playback File format Sampling rate Bit rate 8 kHz, WMA format 22.05 kHz, 5 to 320 kbps 44.1 kHz
To q jack • Even if the file formats is compatible for playback on this recorder, the recorder does not support every encoder.
2 Press the p button to start playback. • There will be no sound from the speaker when the earphones are connected.
f CAUTION • Avoid excessive volume when listening to playback through the earphones. It may cause hearing damage or loss.
NOTE • To avoid unpleasantly loud sound, set the volume to [00] before plugging in the earphone. EN • If the volume is set too loud, a warning screen may appear. 18 Changing the playback speed
Changing the playback speed is handy for speeding up conference presentations, or for slowing down parts difficult to discern when learning a language.
1 Press and hold the p button 3 Press the p button to finalize during playback. the setting.
b
a 3 Changing the playbackChanging speed
a Playback speed b Voice recorder status indicator (during fast-playback) 2 Press the + or – button.
NOTE • Altered playback speed settings are retained even after power OFF. • Changing the playback speed will make the battery deplete more quickly. • The playback speed can be adjusted • Noise Cancel function will not be between [x0.5] and [x2.0] in 0.1 available while you are changing the increments. playback speed (☞ P. 21). • The playback speed increases when the + button is pressed, and decreases when the – button is pressed. • To return to the normal playback Fast playback restrictions speed, set the setting to [x1.0]. Depending on their sampling frequency and TIP bit rate, some files may not play normally. In this case, you will need to reduce the • Press and hold the p button on playback speed. the playback speed screen to return to [x1.0] at once.
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19 Repeat playback
Folder/File repeat playback A/B repeat playback
You can select the repeat range in the file or The voice recorder has a function with the folder. which you repeat the playback of a portion (segment) of the file being played. 1 Press and hold the l button while the voice recorder is in stop 1 Select a file for A/B repeat mode. playback, and start playback. 3 a 2 Press and hold the l button Repeat playback when playback reaches the desired start position for A/B repeat playback.
a Repeat indicator [ ]: Plays the files in the current folder repeatedly. [ ]: Plays the current file repeatedly. • [A] will flash on the display. • Press and hold the l button to TIP switch repeat settings. • You can change the playback speed 2 Release the p button to finalize (☞ P.19), and fast-forward/rewind the setting. (☞ P.16, P.17) when the [A] indicator is blinking. • If playback reaches the end of the file when the [A] indicator is blinking, the end of the file is treated as the segment end position, and repeat playback starts.
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20 Repeat playback Reducing noise during playback (Noise Cancel) 3 Press and hold the l button again when playback reaches the desired end position for A/B Use the Noise Cancel function to reduce noise repeat playback. when a recorded voice is difficult to discern. 1 Press and hold the n button while the voice recorder is in stop mode, or during playback. 3 Reducing noise during playback (Noise Cancel) • Segment A/B is set, and A/B repeat playback starts. 4 Press the p button. a • Playback stops. The playback segment a Noise Cancel indicator specified for this function is retained. NOTE NOTE • Using the Noise Cancel function will • You cannot write index marks or temp make the battery deplete more quickly. marks during A/B repeat playback. • Noise Cancel function will not be available while you are changing the playback speed (☞ P. 19).
Canceling A/B repeat playback
1 Press and hold the l button while the voice recorder is in stop mode, or during playback.
NOTE • A/B repeat playback function will be cancelled in case position of the file reaches beginning or end of the file by pressing the 9 or 0 buttons.
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21 Editing
Changing the Preventing accidental information screen file erasure (File Lock)
Press and hold the p button while the voice With the file lock feature you can lock recorder is in stop mode to display the remaining important files to prevent them being recording time, as well as the current time/date. accidentally erased. Once locked, file is not Continue press and hold the p button to erased even if the operation for erasing all the display the time/date settings screen (☞ P.7). files in its folder is performed (☞ P.24).
4 1 Press and hold the p button while NOTE
Preventing accidental file erasure (File Lock) the informationChanging screen/ the voice recorder is in stop mode. • Select the file you want to lock, and stop at the start of the file.
a 1 Select the file you want to lock. 2 Press the l button while the voice recorder is in stop mode. a Remaining a possible b recording time b Current date c Current time c d Setting the time/date a File lock indicator e Setting the beeping sounds d f Version information
e
EN f 22 Index marks/temp marks
Writing an index mark or temp mark in a file enables you to quickly access desired position in the file with the same operations used for fast-forwarding, rewinding or skipping to the start of a file. Files created using this voice recorder have index marks written to them. It may not be possible to write index marks to files created using other Olympus recorders. Files to which index marks cannot be written have temp marks written. Additionally, temp marks are written to files created with other than Olympus devices.
Writing an index mark/temp mark Erasing an index mark/temp mark
1 When the desired position has 1 Select a file that contains index been reached press the l mark/temp mark you want to 4
button to write an index mark or erase and start playback. Index marks/temp marks temp mark. 2 Use the 9 or 0 button to select the index mark/temp mark you want to erase. a b
a Number of the index mark/temp mark b Index mark/temp mark indicator
NOTE 3 When the number of the index • Temp marks are temporary markings. mark/temp mark to erase is being They are automatically erased when you shown (for about 2 seconds) in select a different file, or when recorder is the display, press the k button. connected to a PC. • You can write up to 99 index marks/ temp marks in a single file. The message [FULL] appears if you attempt to write more than 99 marks. • You cannot write or erase index marks/ temp marks in files that have been locked by the file lock function (☞ P. 22). • Any subsequent index marks/temp • Index marks/temp marks cannot be marks in the file are automatically written to the beginning of files. renumbered. • If the files created on this voice recorder are played back on a PC, the index marks EN may not be retained. 23 Erasing files
This section describes how to erase a single unnecessary file from a folder, erase all the files in the current folder at once. Files cannot be restored after being erased, so please check carefully before erasing a file.
Erase a single file Erase all the files in the folder
1 Select the file you want to erase. 1 Select the folder from which to erase all files. 2 Press the k button while the voice recorder is in stop mode. 2 Press the k button while the 4 voice recorder is in stop mode.
Erasing files 3 Press the k button again.
The file of this number is erased. After it is erased, renumbering is performed automatically. 4 Press the 0 button to select • The voice recorder returns to the [YES]. stopped mode if no operation is performed for 8 seconds. 5 Press the p button. 3 Press the 0 button to select [YES].
• [END] appears when the process has finished.
4 Press the p button. • [END] appears when the process has finished. EN
24 Erasing files
NOTE • Locked files and read-only files cannot be erased (☞ P. 22). • If there is a file that cannot be recognized by the recorder, the file will not be erased. The voice recorder must be connected to a PC to erase these files. • Before erasing a file, replace the battery to ensure it will not run out before the process has finished. Erasing processes can take over 10 seconds to complete. To prevent the risk of damage to data, 4 never remove the battery before an erasing process has finished. Erasing files
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25 Formatting the internal memory
Formatting the internal memory erases all existing files saved on it. Be sure to transfer all important files to a PC before formatting.
1 While the voice recorder is in 5 Press the p button. stop mode, press and hold the k button for more than 3 seconds.
• [END] appears when the process has 4 finished. Formatting the internal memory 2 Press the 0 button to select NOTE [YES]. • Never format the voice recorder from a PC. • Formatting erases all the existing data, including locked files and read-only files. • Time/date settings as well as various set content will retain information from before formatting. • Before formatting, replace the battery 3 Press the p button. to ensure it will not run out before the process has finished. The formatting process can sometimes take over 10 seconds to complete. To prevent the risk of damage to data, never remove the battery before a formatting process has finished. • Even when formatting or erasing (☞ P. 24) is performed, only the 4 Press the 0 button to select file management information of the [YES] again. internal memory is updated and the recorded data is not completely erased. Before giving the voice recorder to somebody or disposing of it, perform initialization and then record silence until there is no recording time remaining in order to prevent the leakage of personal information. EN
26 Use with a PC
PC operating environment
The requirements shown are the operating environments needed for using a USB connection to save files recorded by the voice recorder on a PC.
Windows
Operating system: Microsoft Windows Vista/7/8/8.1/10 standard installation PC: Windows PC with at least one available USB port
Macintosh
Operating system: Mac OS X 10.5 to 10.11 standard installation PC: Apple Macintosh series PC with at least one available USB port 5 PC operating environment NOTE • Even when the requirements for the operating environment are satisfied, updated versions, multiboot environments, self-modified PCs and other compatible machines will not be covered under the operational warranty.
PC connection precautions
• When uploading or downloading a file to or from the voice recorder, data transfer will continue as long as the voice recorder’s LED indicator light is flashing. Never disconnect the USB connector before data communication has finished. Always use the procedure on ☞ P. 29 to disconnect the USB connector. Data may not be transferred correctly if you disconnect the connector before the drive has stopped. • Do not format (initialize) the voice recorder’s drive from a PC. Formatting done from a PC will not be done correctly. • Voice recorder folders or files that are moved or renamed in a Windows or Macintosh file management screen may be reordered or become unrecognizable. • Note that it will still be possible to read and write data on the voice recorder after setting the attribute of the voice recorder’s drive to ’Read only’ on a PC. • To prevent nearby electronic devices being affected by noise, disconnect the external microphone and earphones when connecting the voice recorder to a PC.
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27 PC connection/disconnection
Connecting the voice recorder to a PC
1 Start the PC. NOTE 2 Connect the USB cable to the USB • Insert the USB connector securely all port of the PC. the way. Operation will not be normal if the connection is not made properly. 3 After making sure the voice • Connecting the voice recorder through recorder is in stop mode, connect a USB hub may result in unstable operation. Do not use a USB hub if the USB cable to the connecting operation is unstable. port on this recorder. • Use only a compatible Olympus micro USB cable. Operation is not guaranteed 5 if another manufacturer’s cable is used. Only use the Olympus micro USB cable
PC connection/disconnection with the voice recorder and never use it with another manufacture’s products. Once the included micro USB cable is broken or lost, please contact the Customer Support Center.
TIP • Windows: The voice recorder is recognized and displayed in the [Computer] folder with the model name as the drive name. • Macintosh: The voice recorder is recognized and displayed on the desktop with the model name as the drive name. • For information on the PC’s USB port, see the PC’s user manual. EN
28 PC connection/disconnection
Disconnecting the voice recorder from a PC
Windows Macintosh
1 Click [ ] on the task bar in the 1 Drag-and-drop the removable lower right hand corner of the disk icon for the voice recorder screen and click [Eject DIGITAL shown on the desktop to the VOICE RECORDER]. trash can icon.
• The letter used to identify the drive will vary according to your PC. • When the window indicating it is safe 5 to remove hardware appears, close the window. PC connection/disconnection 2 Check that the LED indicator light 2 Check that the LED indicator light of the voice recorder has stopped of the voice recorder has stopped blinking and then disconnect the blinking and then disconnect the USB cable. USB cable.
NOTE • To prevent the risk of data damage, never disconnect the voice recorder from the USB port while the LED indicator light is flashing.
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29 Loading a file to a PC
Files recorded with the built-in microphone are saved in a folder named [RECORDER] on the PC. You can copy voice recorder files to any folder on the PC.
Drive name Folder names
VN-541PC* RECORDER MEMO (Memo) 001
002 TALK (Talk)
Folder MUSIC (Music) 199 File LP (LP)
5 * Recognized/displayed by Copy these files to the PC. voice recorder drive name. Loading a file to a PC
Windows Macintosh
1 Connect the voice recorder to the 1 Connect the voice recorder to the PC (☞ P. 28). PC (☞ P. 28).
2 Open Windows Explorer. • When the voice recorder is connected to the Macintosh operating system, • When you open [Computer], the voice it is recognized and displayed on the recorder is recognized and displayed desktop with the model name as the with the model name as the drive drive name. name. 2 Double-click the removable disk 3 Click on the folder labeled with icon labeled with your voice your voice recorder’s model recorder’s model name. name. 3 Copy the desired data to the PC. 4 Copy the desired data to the PC. 4 Disconnect the voice recorder 5 Disconnect the voice recorder from the PC (☞ P. 29). from the PC (☞ P. 29).
NOTE
EN • To prevent the risk of data damage, never disconnect the voice recorder from the USB port while the LED indicator light is flashing. 30 Other information
Troubleshooting
Alarm Problem message Possible cause Solution Check that the positive and The batteries are not inserted negative terminals of the - properly. batteries are placed correctly (☞ P. 6). The display is blank. The remaining battery power LO Replace the batteries (☞ P. 6). is low.
- The power is OFF. Turn the power ON (☞ P. 7).
The remaining battery power LO Replace the batteries (☞ P. 6). is low. Unable to operate - The power is OFF. Turn the power ON (☞ P. 7). 6 the voice recorder. Troubleshooting The voice recorder is in HOLD HOLD Release HOLD mode (☞ P. 10). mode.
Erase unnecessary files FULL There is no remaining memory. (☞ P. 24). Unable to record. The maximum number of Erase unnecessary files FULL recordable files (199) has been (☞ P. 24). reached.
To output the playback through The earphones are connected to - the built-in speaker, disconnect the q jack. Playback is the earphones. inaudible. - The volume is set to [00]. Adjust the volume (☞ P.15).
The output level of the The recording is Adjust the output level of the - connected external device may too quiet. external device. be too low.
The file was recorded in a Missing audio file. NO FILE Select another folder. different folder.
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31 Troubleshooting
Alarm Problem message Possible cause Solution Objects brushed against the Try your best not to touch the - voice recorder while recording. voice recorder during recording. Noise during The voice recorder was playback. Redo the operation with the placed near a mobile phone - voice recorder in a different or fluorescent light during location. recording or playback.
You must unlock the file before LOCK The file is locked. you can erase it (☞ P. 22). Unable to erase a file. Unlock the file, or undo the read- LOCK The file is a read-only file. only setting on a PC.
Connecting a speaker with a built-in amplifier may cause feedback during recording. 6 Using the earphones to monitor Noise when recording is recommended. Troubleshooting monitoring a - Feedback is being caused. recording. Adjust the recording setup such as by moving the earphones and microphone farther apart, or ensuring the microphone is not facing the earphones.
The maximum number of marks Erase unnecessary marks FULL (99) has been reached. (☞ P. 23). Unable to write index marks/temp LOCK The file is locked. Unlock the file (☞ P. 22). marks . Unlock the file, or undo the read- LOCK The file is a read-only file. only setting on a PC.
Playback speed is Playback speed function is set to Set the playback speed function - fast (or slow). anything other than [x1.0]. setting to [x1.0] (☞ P. 19).
An internal memory error Contact the Olympus Customer Memory error. ERROR occurred. Support Center (☞ back cover).
Format the memory again Format error. ERROR A formatting problem occurred. (☞ P. 26).
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32 Recorder care ssExterior • If the voice recorder gets dirty, wipe gently with a soft cloth. If the recorder gets very dirty, soak the cloth in mild soapy water and wring well. Wipe the recorder with the damp cloth and then wipe it with a dry cloth. ssDisplay • If the display gets dirty, wipe gently with a soft cloth.
NOTE • Do not use benzene, alcohol or other strong solvents, or chemical cleaning cloths.
6 Recorder care
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33 Accessories (optional)
Accessories for Olympus voice recorders can be purchased directly from the Online Shop on the Olympus website. Availability of accessories differs depending on the country.
ME52W mono microphone TP8 telephone pickup microphone (unidirectional) An earphone microphone that can Designed to record sound from a be worn in the ear during phone distance while minimizing the impact of calls. Clearly captures voices and surrounding noise. conversations during phone calls. ME34 compact zoom microphone KA333 connecting cord (unidirectional) A resistive connection cord with stereo Comes with an integrated stand ideal for mini-plugs (3.5 mm diameter) on both table placement when recording events ends. Used to connect the earphone jack from a distance, such as conferences or output to the line input when recording. lectures. Comes with plug adapters (PA331/ PA231) that adapt to mono mini plugs ME33 boundary microphone (3.5 mm diameter) or mono mini mini 6 A microphone for recording conferences plugs (2.5 mm diameter). that enables connection of up to three CS131 Carrying case
Accessories (optional) left- and three right-channel units. Cascade connection enables the left/ right channel connections to be extended up to about 12 meters, to capture sound from a broad range. ME15 mono tie clip microphone (omnidirectional) A small, unobtrusive microphone that comes with a tie-clip.
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34 Copyright and trademark information
• The information in this document is subject to change in future without prior notice. Contact Olympus Customer Support Center for the latest product names, model numbers and other information. • Voice recorder displays and product illustrations shown in this manual may differ from the actual product. While every precaution has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this manual, errors may occasionally arise. Any questions or concerns regarding doubtful information, or possible errors or omissions should be directed to the Olympus Customer Support Center. • Olympus Corporation is the copyright holders of this manual. Copyright law prohibits unauthorized reproduction of this manual, or unauthorized distribution of reproductions thereof. • Note that Olympus will assume no liability in the event of damages, lost earnings, or any claims from third parties resulting from improper use of the product.
Trademarks and registered trademarks
• Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. • Macintosh is a trademark of Apple Inc. 6
All other brand or product names in this manual are the trademarks or registered trademarks of Copyright and trademark information their respective owners.
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35 Safety precautions
Before using the voice recorder, read Voice recorder safety precautions this manual to ensure correct and safe operation. After reading this manual, be f WARNING sure to keep it on hand for ready reference ss whenever needed. Do not use the voice recorder in an atmosphere that might contain Important safety precautions flammable or explosive gases. • Important safety precautions in this It may cause fire or explosion. manual are accompanied by the symbol ssDo not attempt to disassemble, and labels below. Always follow these repair or modify the voice recorder. precautions to prevent harming yourself It may cause electric shock or injury. or others, or causing damage to property. ss • The meaning of each precaution type is Do not operate the voice recorder given below. while operating a vehicle (such as a bicycle, motorcycle or car). It may cause traffic accidents. f DANGER ssDo not leave the voice recorder in 6 A precaution about an imminent a location accessible to infants and children. Safety precautions Safety danger that is expected to result in death or serious injury if equipment Pay attention when using the voice is handed incorrectly. recorder near an infant or child, taking care not to leave it unattended. Infants f WARNING and children are unable to understand A precaution about a situation that voice recorder safety precautions, and are is expected to potentially result in at risk of accidents such as: death or serious injury if equipment is – Strangulation caused by accidental handled incorrectly. entanglement of the earphone cord around the neck. f CAUTION – Operation errors resulting in injury or A precaution about a situation that electric shock. is expected to potentially result in ssIf you notice unusual odor, noise, injury, or is expected to result only heat, burning odor or smoke in property damage, if equipment is coming from the recorder: handled incorrectly. It may cause fire or burns. Remove the battery immediately, taking care not to burn yourself. Contact your place of purchase or an Olympus repair center or service center. (Do not touch the battery with bare hands when removing it. Remove the battery outdoors, and away EN from flammable objects.) 36 Safety precautions ssIf the voice recorder is dropped ssWhen carrying or storing the in water or, if water, metal or battery, always place it in the case combustible foreign matter gets and protect its terminals. Do not inside: carry or store the battery together 1 Remove the battery immediately. with precious metal items such as 2 Contact your place of purchase or key rings. an Olympus service center for repair. It may cause overheating, electric shock Continued use may result in fire or or fire. electric shock. ssDo not connect the battery directly ssDo not use the voice recorder or to a power outlet or car cigarette use it only as directed in airplanes, lighter. hospitals or other locations ssDo not use or leave the battery where use of electronic devices is in a hot location such as in direct restricted. sunlight, inside a vehicle on a hot ssWhen carrying the voice recorder day, or near a room heater. by its strap, take care to prevent it It may cause fire, burns or injuries from becoming caught on other items. leaking, overheating or ruptures. 6
ssBattery fluid in the eyes may cause precautions Safety f CAUTION blindness. If battery fluid gets in ssDo not raise the volume before eyes, do not rub the eyes. Instead, performing an operation. rinse them thoroughly with tap Hearing damage or loss may result. water or other clean water right away. Go to doctor immediately. Batteries f DANGER f WARNING ss ssDo not place the battery near Do not touch or hold the battery ignition sources. with wet hands. ss It may cause electric shock or Do not incinerate, heat or malfunctions. disassemble the battery. Do not ssDo not use a battery with a short-circuit the battery’s positive scratched or damaged case. and negative electrodes. It may cause ruptures or overheating. It may cause fire, ruptures, combustion or overheating. ssKeep the battery out of the reach ssDo not solder connections directly of infants and children. onto the battery. Do not deform, The battery could be swallowed by infants and children. If swallowed, go to doctor modify or disassemble the battery. immediately. EN
37 Safety precautions
ssDo not submerge the battery in Operating precautions freshwater or saltwater, or allow its • Do not leave the voice recorder in hot or terminals to become wet. humid locations such as in direct sunlight ssDiscontinue use of the battery inside a vehicle, or on a beach during if it develops a problem such summer. as leaking, discoloration or • Do not store the voice recorder in humid deformation. or dusty locations. ssBattery fluid on clothing or skin • If the voice recorder becomes wet or damp, wipe off the moisture right away may damage the skin, so rinse the with a dry cloth. Contact with salt water battery fluid off right away with should be particularly avoided. tap water or other clean water. • Do not place the voice recorder on top of or near a TV, refrigerator or other electrical f CAUTION appliance. ss • Prevent sand or mud from getting on the Do not throw the battery around, voice recorder. It may cause product not to or subject it to strong shocks. be repairable. 6 ssDo not use a battery with a torn • Do not subject the voice recorder to
Safety precautions Safety casing seal (insulating covering). intense vibrations or shocks. ssAlways remove the battery when • Do not use the voice recorder in humid the voice recorder will not be used locations. for an long period. • Placing a magnetic card (such as a bank ssRemove the battery from the voice cash card) near the speaker or earphones may cause errors in the data stored on the recorder as soon as the battery magnetic card. becomes unusable. It may cause • Noise may be heard when the voice leakage. recorder is placed near an electric lamp line, fluorescent light or a mobile phone during recording or playback.
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38 Safety precautions
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39 Specifications
General items Frequency response
44Recording/Playback formats 44During recording
WMA format MEMO 200 Hz to 7 kHz 44Sampling frequency TALK 200 Hz to 13 kHz WMA 32 kbps 44.1 kHz MUSIC 40 Hz to 13 kHz WMA 16 kbps 22.05 kHz LP 200 Hz to 3 kHz WMA 5 kbps 8 kHz 44Maximum working output 44During playback 200 mW (8 Ω speaker) 20 Hz to 20 kHz 44Maximum output voltage (The upper and lower limit values of the frequency response depend on each Recorder: â 150 mV recording format.) (according to EN 50332-2) 44Recording media* 6 Internal NAND flash memory: 4 GB * Some recording media memory Specifications capacity is used as a management area, so the actual usable capacity will always be slightly less than the displayed capacity. 44Speaker Built-in 20 mm diameter round dynamic speaker 44Microphone jack 3.5 mm diameter; Impedance: 2 kΩ 44Earphones jack 3.5 mm diameter; Impedance: 8 Ω minimum 44Power source Two AAA dry cell batteries (model LR03) 44External dimensions 108 × 37.5 × 20 mm (Not including largest projection) 44Weight 67 g (including battery) EN 44Operating temperature 0 to 42°C (32 to 107.6°F) 40 Specifications
Battery life Recording time
The figures below are guideline values. The figures below are guideline values.
44When recording with built-in TALK/MUSIC 251 hours (approx.) microphone (WMA 32 kbps) MEMO TALK 52 hours (approx.) 495 hours (approx.) (WMA 16 kbps) MUSIC 52 hours (approx.) LP 1570 hours (approx.) MEMO 52 hours (approx.) (WMA 5 kbps) LP 60 hours (approx.)
44During audio file playback NOTE During speaker playback • Actually available recording times may TALK 21 hours (approx.) be shorter than the figures shown here when making short recordings MUSIC 21 hours (approx.) repeatedly (Equipment displays of 6 MEMO 22 hours (approx.) available/elapsed recording times Specifications LP 23 hours (approx.) should be considered guideline values).
During earphone playback TALK 45 hours (approx.) Maximum recording time per file MUSIC 45 hours (approx.) MEMO 46 hours (approx.) Regardless of the amount of remaining memory, the maximum recording time per LP 46 hours (approx.) file is restricted to the following values.
WMA 32 kbps 26 hours, 40 minutes (approx.) NOTE WMA 16 kbps 53 hours, 40 minutes (approx.) • The battery life figures shown here WMA 5 kbps 148 hours, 40 minutes (approx.) were determined using an Olympus test method. Actual battery life figures will vary greatly according to the Note that voice recorder specifications battery used and usage conditions and appearance are subject to change (Changing the playback speed or using without prior notice for performance the Noise Cancel function may affect the battery life). improvements or other upgrading. EN
41 For customers in North and South For customers in USA America: Declaration of Conformity FCC Notice Model Number: VN-541PC • This equipment has been tested and Trade Name: olympus found to comply with the limits for a Class Responsible Party: olympus america inc. B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of Address: 3500 Corporate Parkway, P.O. Box the FCC Rules. These limits are designed 610, Center Valley, PA 18034-0610, U.S.A. to provide reasonable protection against Telephone Number: 484-896-5000 harmful interference in a residential installation. Tested To Comply With FCC Standards • This equipment generates, uses, and FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful This device complies with Part 15 of FCC interference to radio communications. Rules and Industry Canada licence-exempt • However, there is no guarantee that RSS standard(s). interference will not occur in a particular Operation is subject to the following two installation. If this equipment does cause conditions: harmful interference to radio or television (1) this device may not cause harmful reception, which can be determined interference, and by turning the equipment off and on, (2) this device must accept any interference the user is encouraged to try to correct received, including interference that may the interference by one or more of the cause undesired operation. following measures: - Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. For customers in canada - Increase the separation between the CAN ices-3 (B)/NMB-3 (B) equipment and receiver. - Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. - Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. - Only the OLYMPUS-supplied USB cable should be used to connect the equipment to USB enabled personal computers (PC).
Any unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment would void the user's authority to operate. OLYMPUS CORPORATION 2951 Ishikawa-machi, Hachioji-shi, Tokyo 192-8507, Japan.
OLYMPUS AMERICA INC. 3500 Corporate Parkway, P.O. Box 610, Center Valley, PA 18034-0610, U.S.A. Tel. 484-896-5000
Technical Support (USA): Our phone customer support is available from 24/7 online automated help: 9 am to 9 pm (Monday to Friday) ET http://www.olympusamerica.com/support http://www.olympusamerica.com/contactus Phone customer support: Olympus software updates can be obtained at: Tel.: 1-888-553-4448 (Toll-free) http://www.olympusamerica.com/digital
EN-BD4531-01U date of issue 2016.05. AP