Catchbox CBPRO001 User Manual

User Manual

Copyright 2019 Catchbox SIA

Mod

Catchbox Module

Catchbox Cover

Contents

1 Safety Instructions................................................................................................................. 4-5

2 Quick Start ............................................................................................................................ 6-15

3 Product Description ......................................................................................................... 16-18

Overview ................................................................................................................................. 16

Compatibility .......................................................................................................................... 17

Proper Use and Working Environment .............................................................................18

4 System Overview ..................................................................................................................... 19

Catchbox Module .................................................................................................................. 20

Catchbox Cover ..................................................................................................................... 21

Catchbox Module (Without 3rd Party Transmitter) ......................................................... 22

5 Operations................................................................................................................................. 23

Turning the Device On .........................................................................................................23

Locking the Transmitter to the Cover ................................................................................ 24

Opening the Catchbox ......................................................................................................... 25

Throwing the Catchbox ........................................................................................................ 26

Speaking into the Catchbox ................................................................................................27

Connecting Catchbox Module with 3rd Party Belt-pack Transmitter ................... 28-30

6 Troubleshooting .......................................................................................................................31

7 Maintenance, Storage, and Disposal ................................................................................ 32

8 Notes ........................................................................................................................................... 33

2 Safety Instructions

• Before using the product, read and understand the user manual and inform others
of proper usage.

• Follow all warnings and instructions on the product and in this manual.

• Keep these instructions and always include these instructions when passing the
apparatus on to third parties.

• Not heeding these warnings might lead to serious injury or property damage.

• Do not throw at peoples’ heads and always make sure everyone is aware of the
situation before throwing.

• Do not use in situations with fragile objects, hot liquids, or people susceptible to
injury, like the very young or old.

• Do not throw long passes or hard passes.

• Properly lock the Module into the cover before use. Always use the cover and the
foam cap on the Module, when using the product.

• Do not swing or throw the product from its handle. This may cause the Module to
detach from the cover.

• Only use compatible 3rd party transmitters, as specified by the manufacturer,
with the Module. Using incompatible transmitters may result in damage to audio
equipment, an increase in overall product weight leading to an increased chance
of injury, and/or a failure of the locking mechanism causing the Module or 3rd
party transmitter to fall out during use causing injury.

• Operating or storing this product at temperatures above 50 degrees Celsius or
122 degrees Fahrenheit will cause the locking mechanism to fail permanently.

• This product contains magnets which could affect the functioning of
pacemakers and other electronic implants. These could stop working or switch
into test mode, causing illness. If you wear these devices keep sufficient
distance to magnets. Warn others who wear these devices from getting too
close to magnets.

! NOTICE !

! WARNING !

4

Catchbox Module

! CAUTION !

• Magnets produce a far-reaching, strong magnetic field. Keep magnets
away from devices and objects that could be damaged by strong magnetic
fields, like laptops and other electrical equipment.

• Do not place the product near heat sources such as heating ducts or
radiators and do not expose it to direct sunlight, excessive dust, moisture,
rain, mechanical vibrations or shock.

• Do not use near water. Use equipment indoors only. If the equipment
comes into contact with a liquid, turn off the product and shut down the
sound system.

• Avoid excessive volume. Do not exceed 70dBa for airborne noise.

• Clean the equipment with a moistened (not wet) cloth only. Be sure to
turn off the device before cleaning the equipment, during lightning storms,
and/or when not in use.

• The equipment should be opened, serviced, and repaired by qualified
service personnel only.

• Do not attempt to modify this product or its accessories and use only
accessories and attachments, specified by the manufacturer.

• Use only AA (LR6) type alkaline batteries with the product.

• Be sure to dispose of dead batteries as required by local waste disposal
rules. Never throw batteries into a fire or a garbage bin

Catchbox Module

5

3 Quick Start

Catchbox Module uses 3rd party wireless transmitters
to function. For a list of compatible transmitters, see the
section on compatibility or visit the manufacturers website,
www.catchbox.com.

1.

Setup a compatible 3rd party transmitter and receiver pair,
syncing the two units and connecting the receiver to a
sound system. For specific instructions, see the relevant
user manual provided by the manufacturer of said system.

6

Catchbox Module

2.

Choose an adapter cable based on
the brand and model of your 3rd
party transmitter and connect it to the
microphone input of said transmitter.

Catchbox Module

7

3.

Remove the Catchbox
Module from the outer
cover by twisting the
cylinder 90 degrees and
pulling upwards.

4.

Open the velcro strap
surrounding the device by
pulling it gently along the
surface of the module.

8

Catchbox Module

5.

Install one AA battery into the back part of
the Catchbox Module.

Catchbox Module

9

6.

Connect the 3rd party transmitter to the
Catchbox Module by plugging the RCA male
end of the adapter cable into the RCA female
connector, located inside the front cavity of
the Catchbox Module.

10

Catchbox Module

7.

Place the transmitter inside the
cavity of the Catchbox Module
making sure no antennas or cables
are protruding outwards.

Catchbox Module

11

8.

Turn on both the 3rd party transmitter
and the muting circuit located at the
back of the Catchbox Module.

12

Catchbox Module

9.

Secure the velcro strap tightly around the
Catchbox Module, ensuring that both the
battery located at the back as well as the
frontal cavity are covered by the velcro strap.

Catchbox Module

13

10.

Place the Catchbox Module
inside the cover, making sure
to align the magnetic locking
mechanisms of both the cover
and the Catchbox Module. See
visual marks for guidance.

14

Catchbox Module

11.

Test the volume level by speaking into
the microphone and adjusting it using
the volume controls on the 3rd party
transmitter or receiver.

! CAUTION !

Catchbox Module

Avoid excessive volume. Do not exceed 70 dBa for airborne noise.
Before turning on the device, make sure the volume knob on your 3rd
party receiver is turned to zero, so as to ensure no unexpected loud
noises when starting.

15

4 Product Description

Overview

Catchbox Module is the world’s first throwable microphone module, allowing audio professionals to
convert existing wireless microphone transmitters into soft, throwable microphones. These final
assemblies, in turn, can be quickly passed from one audience member to the next in crowded spaces,
making it an easy and fun way to get audience members to ask questions and make comments, whether
it be in a lecture, a meeting, a workshop, or even a conference. The module comes with an integrated
professional microphone element connected to the unique automute technology, which turns off the
audio signal when the microphone is in movement, ensuring the system doesn’t make any unwanted
noises when being passed around. The Catchbox Module itself does not act as a transmitter. Instead,
wireless transmission is carried out entirely by the 3rd party wireless transmitter. This means no separate
license is required to operate the module as long as one has been obtained for the 3rd party wireless
transmitter.

Key Features

• Automute technology

• Integrated Microphone Element

• Compatible with industry leading
wireless microphone brands

Do not attempt to modify this product or its accessories and use only
accessories and attachments specified by the manufacturer.

! CAUTION !

16

Included Components

• Catchbox Module

• Catchbox Cover

• RCA to 3 pin mini XLR adapter cable

• RCA to 4 pin mini XLR adapter cable

• RCA to 3.5 mm plug adapter cable

Catchbox Module

Compatibility

The Catchbox Module, wireless microphone module, allows audio professionals to convert 3rd party
wireless microphone transmitters into throwable microphones. The device comes with different adapter
cables which allow users to connect commonly used 3rd party transmitters to the integrated microphone
element and automatic muting circuit. Currently, the Catchbox Module has been tested and verified to
work with the following models of transmitters from Shure™ , AKG™ and Sennheiser™ :

Compatible Belt-pack Transmitters:

Shure AKG Sennheiser

ULX-D1
QLX-D1

UR1M

These transmitters have been tested to fit into the cavity inside the Catchbox Module. It is important not
to use 3rd party transmitters, other than those mentioned above, as these can be too heavy or oversized,
making the device unsafe to throw.

To connect a compatible 3rd party transmitter to the Catchbox Module, the device comes with three
different adapter cables. These cables have different pin layouts depending on the brand of the transmitter
you would like to use. Simply choose the adapter cable that matches the pin layout of your compatible
belt-pack transmitter.

DPT 800

PT 470
PT 420

SK 500
SK 300
SK 100

1) 3 pin mini XLR (AKG)

2) 4 pin mini XLR (Shure)

3) 3.5 (1/8 in) (Sennheiser)

Catchbox Module

17

Proper Use and Working Environment

Safety First

While the Catchbox Module is a fun way to make events more engaging, improper use can lead
to personal injury and/or property damage. Please understand that the manufacturer accepts no
liability for damage or injuries arising from the misuse of this product. It is very important to read
the safety instructions before using the product. Specifically, make sure that the Catchbox Module,
along with the 3rd party wireless transmitter, is securely locked inside the foam cover before using
the product. Remember to only use 3rd party wireless transmitters specified as being compatible
with the product by the manufacturer. Also, do not throw long or hard passes, and avoid using
the device in situations where there are glasses, fragile items, hot liquids, unsuspecting people,
or people susceptible to injury, like the very old or young. Also, avoid swinging or throwing the
device from its handle as this may cause the locking mechanism to fail, releasing the inner part
and potentially causing injury.

Things to Consider With Magnets

Since the product contains magnets, care should be taken when setting up the product for use.
Avoid placing the Module on electrical devices, such as laptops, as these can be adversely
affected or damaged from the magnetic field. People with pacemakers or other electrical implants
should be especially careful, as these devices could stop working or switch into test mode if they
come into direct contact with a strong magnet.

18

Catchbox Module

5 System Overview

Catchbox Module

Catchbox

Module

NOTE: Catchbox Module uses compatible 3rd party wireless
transmitters to work. Some specifications of the system are reliant on
the make and model of the 3rd party wireless transmitter that is used
with the product. These specifications include range of operation,
radio frequency, audio frequency response, and system latency.

Catchbox

Cover

19

Catchbox Module

Parts

1) Foam Cap

2) RCA Port

3) Velcro Straps

4) Microphone Element

5) Cavity for 3rd Party Transmitter

6) Magnetic Lock

7) Battery Compartment

8) Status LED

9) Power Switch

Specifications

Weight (without 3rd party transmitter) 130g / 4.6 oz

Battery type 1x AA (alkaline)

Battery life ≈ 20h

Status LED Meaning

Off

Green

Red

20

The Automatic Muting circuit and microphone
element are not powered.

The Automatic Muting circuit and microphone
element are powered.

The Automatic Muting circuit with integrated
microphone element has less than 2 hours of
battery life left.

Catchbox Module

Catchbox Cover

Parts

1) Opening for Module

2) Magnetic Lock

3) Handle

Specifications

Weight 200 g / 7 oz

Dimensions 18 x 18 x 18 cm / 7 x 7 x 7 in

Catchbox Module

21

Catchbox Module (Without 3rd Party Transmitter)

Specifications

Weight 330 g / 11.5 oz

Dimensions 18 x 18 x 18 cm / 7 x 7 x 7 in

22

Catchbox Module

6 Operations

Turning the Device On

To turn on the device, place one AA battery in the muting circuit of the Catchbox Module and an
appropriate battery into the 3rd party transmitter. Then turn on both the muting circuit and 3rd
party transmitter. The LED on the back side of the Catchbox Module should turn green. Secure
the AA battery and the 3rd party transmitter in place by tightening the velcro strap around the
device as shown in the picture.

Catchbox Module

23

Locking the Module Into the Cover

To lock the Catchbox Module unit into the cover, align
the pictures located at the bottom of the Catchbox
Module and bottom of the cover with each other. The
locking mechanism is composed of two magnets
that attract each other when correctly aligned. To
test whether the locking has been successful, one
can try to pull on the Catchbox Module and attempt
to remove it with a vertical force. If it does not come
out with significant force, the magnets are correctly
aligned. To remove the Catchbox Module, simply
twist it 90 degrees and pull. This motion will misalign
the magnets and allow for easy removal of the inner
part.

! WARNING !

24

Always properly lock the Catchbox Module, with the attached foam cap,
into the cover before use. Improperly locking the Catchbox Module, or a
failed locking mechanism, will result in the unit coming out during use,
potentially leading to serious injury and/or property damage.

Catchbox Module

Opening the Catchbox

To remove the Catchbox Module, simply twist it 90
degrees and pull upward. This motion will misalign
the magnets and allow for easy removal of the unit.

Catchbox Module

25

Throwing the Catchbox

To throw the Catchbox microphone, find someone in the audience who wants to ask a question
or make a comment. Make sure that the person and those around him or her are aware of the
situation and are prepared to catch the microphone. Avoid throwing the Catchbox if there are
fragile electronics or hot liquids nearby, as these might spill or be damaged from the throw. Short,
underhand passes of around 5 meters / 16ft. distance are recommended. If someone farther away
has a question, try to get the entire audience involved by having members pass the Catchbox short
distances to the person who wants it. This is a great way to activate the crowd.

26

! WARNING !

Improper throwing and use of the device can lead to serious injury
and/or property damage. Do not throw at peoples’ heads and always
make sure everyone is aware of the situation before throwing. Do not
use in situations with fragile objects, hot liquids, or people susceptible
to injury, like the very young or old. Do not throw long passes or hard
passes. Do not swing or throw this product from its handle as this may
cause the Catchbox Module to detach from the cover.

Catchbox Module

Speaking Into the Catchbox

To use the Catchbox, simply speak into the foam cap located on top
of the product. It is advisable to inform audience members at what
distance to speak into the Catchbox. A distance of 20cm / 8in is ideal.
This will provide the clearest sound while not blocking the persons face
who is speaking. Avoid using the Catchbox near speakers as this can
cause audio feedback.

Catchbox Module

27

Connecting Catchbox Module With 3rd Party Belt-pack Transmitter

You can connect different 3rd party wireless transmitters into the Catchbox Module. To do this, make
sure your transmitter is listed as being compatible by reviewing the section on compatibility. Afterwards,
choose the correct adapter cable and plug it into your transmitter’s microphone port. There are three
different adapter cables to choose from, each designed for a specific brand of wireless transmitter. Look
at the microphone input of your transmitter and choose an adapter cable with a proper pin layout. The
list below shows the connector types for the three brands currently supported.

1) 3 pin mini XLR (AKG)

1=Shield 2=Audio 3=Audio

2) 4 pin mini XLR (Shure)

1=Shield 2=Audio 3=Audio 4=NC (not connected)

3) 3.5 mm TS (1/8 in) (Sennheiser)

Tip=Audio Sleeve=Shield

28

Audio

Shield

Audio

Shield

Audio

Shield

Sleeve

Tip

Tip

3

3

2

4

2

Sleeve

1

1

Catchbox Module

Once you have connected the adapter cable, connect the 3rd party
transmitter to the Catchbox Module by plugging the RCA male end
of the adapter cable into the RCA female connector, located inside
the front cavity of the Catchbox Module.

Catchbox Module

29

Afterwards, place the 3rd party transmitter inside
the cavity of the Catchbox Module, making sure no
antennas or cables are protruding outwards.

30

Catchbox Module

7 Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Solution

No sound

Audio signal
dropouts or
breaks

Distorted sound 1) Adapter cable is broken or not properly

Module falling
out of cover

Audio feedback 1) Catchbox microphone is situated too

1) Catchbox Module is not turned on,
indicated by no light on the status LED.

2) 3rd party transmitter or receiver is not
turned on or these are not paired.

1) Wireless connection between 3rd party
transmitter and receiver is weak and
unreliable.

attached.

2) Volume too high.

1) The magnetic locks are misaligned.

2) Magnetic lock has been damaged or
magnets have lost strength.

close to the speaker system.

1) Turn on the Catchbox Module using the
power switch located at the back of the device.
The LED status light should turn green. If it
doesn’t, you may need to replace the battery.

2) Make sure both the 3rd party wireless
transmitter and receiver are on and paired with
each other. See corresponding 3rd party user
manual for further assistance..

1) See 3rd party transmitter and receiver
user manual for more assistance. Common
causes for a weak unreliable signal are that
the receiver and the transmitter are located
too far away from each other, the signal is
being absorbed by objects between the two
devices, and/or other devices are operating
on the same frequency band, congesting the
frequency band.

1) Check the adapter cable connection to the
3rd party transmitter as well as to the Module.
If problem persists, replace the adapter cable.

2) Reduce the output volume at the receiver by
using the volume knob.

1) Align the magnets by twisting the Catchbox
Module inside the cover.

2) Get the product serviced.

1) Move Catchbox microphone away from the
speakers.

For more technical assistance, contact us by email ([e-mail])
or visit our website (www.catchbox.com).

Catchbox Module

31

8 Maintenance, Storage, and Disposal

Proper maintenance and storage of the Catchbox Module will help ensure the product remains operational
and safe to use. Improper maintenance or storage, in turn, can lead to equipment failure which can
cause serious injury during use. Do not attempt to repair the unit yourself. The equipment should be
opened, serviced, and repaired by authorized personnel only. Always refer to the user manual for proper
maintenance, storage, and disposal instructions and do not throw away the user manual. Always keep it
near the product for reference by other users.

Cleaning

To clean the equipment, use a moistened (not wet) cloth only. Be sure to turn off the device before
cleaning. To clean the outer cover, first remove the Catchbox Module unit from the inside. Only use dry
cleaners and do not place the outer cover in a washing machine. Always remember to inform cleaners
that the device contains a magnet and should not be treated in temperatures in excess of 50 degrees
Celsius, 122 degrees Fahrenheit, or near equipment sensitive to strong magnetic fields.

Storage

Magnets produce a far-reaching, strong magnetic field. Keep magnets away from devices and objects
that could be damaged by strong magnetic fields, like laptops and other electrical equipment. Operating
or storing this product above 50 degrees Celsius or 122 degrees Fahrenheit will cause the locking
mechanism to fail permanently. This, in turn, will cause the Catchbox Module to fall out of the cover
during use, potentially leading to personal injury and/or property damage. Do not place the equipment
near heat sources such as heating ducts or radiators and do not expose it to direct sunlight, excessive
dust, moisture, rain, mechanical vibrations, or shock. Do not use or store near water. If the equipment
comes into contact with a liquid, turn off the device along with the 3rd party transmitter attached to it.

Disposal

To dispose of a broken or defective unit, send the unit back to the manufacturer or consult your local
waste management professional. Be sure to dispose of dead batteries as required by local waste disposal
rules. Never throw batteries into a fire or a garbage bin.

32

Catchbox Module

9 Certification

The Catchbox Module Consists of:

• Catchbox Module (Model #: CBPRO001)

Catchbox Module Transmitter

Product meets the essential requirements of the
European R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC and is
found to comply with the following standards:

EN 301 489-1 v1.9.2
EN 55032:2012+AC:2013+AC:2014
EN 55024:2011

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.

Catchbox Module

33

9 Notes

34

Catchbox Module

www.catchbox.com