Phonak Milo, Milo Plus User Manual

Standard and micro hearing systems

User Guide

2

1. Welcome 4

2. Important information:
Please read before operating your hearing
system for the first time 6

Hazard warnings 6
Information on product safety 8

3. Hearing system description 10

4. Step-by-step instructions for using
the hearing system 14

Step 1. Getting to know your hearing system 14
Step 2. Battery preparation 16
Step 3. Inserting the battery 16
Step 4. Turning on the hearing system 17
Step 5. Inserting the hearing system 18
Step 6. Adjusting the volume control

behind the ear 24
Step 7. Selecting the hearing program

behind the ear 25

Contents

3

Step 8. Removing the hearing system 26
Step 9. Turning off the hearing system 28
Step 10. Changing the battery 29

Step 11. Changing the battery in hearing

systems with a secured battery compartment 29

5. Care and maintenance 31

6. Troubleshooting 33

7. FM systems 34

8. Service and warranty 36

9. Information and explanation of symbols 37

4

1. Welcome

Your new hearing system is a premium Swiss quality
product. It was developed by Phonak, one of the
world‘s leading companies in hearing technology. Your
hearing system offers the most modern digital hearing
technology currently available on the market.

Phonak has implemented this hearing technology into
hearing systems that are simple and easy to use. Many
automatic functions offer maximum sound quality,
the highest speech clarity, and optimal hearing comfort
in almost all hearing situations. We are convinced
that the outstanding performance of your hearing system
will provide valuable benefits to your daily life.

Please read these user instructions thoroughly in order
to benefit from all the possibilities your new hearing
system has to offer. With proper use and care, you will
be able to enjoy your hearing system for many years
to come.

5

If you have any questions, please consult your hearing
care professional.

Phonak - life is on www.phonak.com

0459

6

Please read the information on the following pages
before using your hearing system.

2.1 Hazard warnings

Use only hearing systems that have been specially

programmed for you by your hearing care professional.
Other systems may be ineffective and may, in
certain cases, damage your hearing.

Changes or modifications to the hearing system

that were not explicitly approved by Phonak are
not permitted. Such changes may damage your ear
or the hearing system.

Hearing system batteries are toxic if they are

swallowed! Keep out of reach of children and pets.
If batteries are swallowed, consult your physician
immediately!

2. Important information

7

In very rare cases, the dome can remain in your ear

canal when removing the hearing tube from the
ear. In the unlikely case that the dome does get stuck
in your ear canal, it is strongly recommended to
see a physician for safe removal.

Hearing programs in the directional microphone

mode reduce background noises. Please be aware
that warning signals or noises coming from behind,
e. g. cars, are partially or entirely suppressed.

The hearing system contains small parts which can

be swallowed by children.

External devices may only be connected if they

have been tested in accordance with corresponding
IECXXXXX standards. Only use accessories approved
by Phonak AG.

8

2.2 Information on product safety

Never immerse your hearing system in water!

Protect it from excessive moisture. Always remove
your hearing system before showering, bathing,
or swimming.

Protect your hearing system from heat (never leave

it near a window or in the car.) Never use a micro­wave or other heating devices to dry your hearing
system. Ask your hearing care professional about
suitable drying methods.

When you are not using your hearing system,

leave the battery compartment open so that any

moisture can evaporate. Make sure that you
always completely dry your hearing system after
use. Store the hearing system in a safe, dry and
clean place.

2. Important information

9

Do not drop your hearing system! Dropping onto a

hard surface can damage your hearing system.

Always use new batteries for your hearing system.

You can return used batteries to your hearing care
professional.

Remove the battery if you are not using your hearing

system for a long period of time.

X-ray radiation (e. g. CT scans, MRI scans) may

adversely affect the correct functioning of your
hearing systems. We recommend that you
remove them before undergoing X-ray procedures
and keep them outside the room.

Do not use your hearing system in areas where

electronic equipment is prohibited.

10

The following user instructions describe two hearing
system models: The standard hearing system and the
micro hearing system.

The standard hearing system is adapted with a classic
earmold. The micro hearing system can be adapted
with a variety of earmolds.

On the following pages use the labeled drawings to
identify the hearing system and the earmold that
you use.

Your hearing care professional will tell you what size
of battery you need for your hearing system.

3. Hearing system description

11

Standard model

With classic earmold

a Right or left indicator (right=red, left=blue)
b Wind and Weather Protector for battery compartment
c Battery compartment with ON/OFF switch
d Volume control
e Program switch
f Microphone input with Wind and Weather Protector
g Hook/sound output
h Hearing tube
i Classic earmold

c

d

e

f g

h

i

ab

12

Micro model

Option A: with classic earmold

a Right or left indicator (right=red, left=blue),
placed in the battery compartment

b Program switch
c Battery compartment with ON/OFF switch
d Microphone input with Wind and Weather

Protector

e Hook/sound output
f Hearing tube
g Classic earmold

d

b

c

f

g

e

a

3. Hearing system description

13

Micro model

Option B: with dome Option C: with SlimTip

h Earmold: Dome
i Retention
j Earmold: SlimTip
k Removal handle

f

h

i

f

j

k

14

The following chapter provides step-by-step instructions
on how to use your hearing system. Please follow
these steps carefully. In the drawings, the parts that
are particularly important for each step are shown
in green.

Step 1. Getting to know your hearing system

Take the hearing instrument in your hand and try out
the hearing system controls. This will make it easier
for you to feel and operate the controls later on when
wearing the hearing system.

4. Step-by-step instructions for using
the hearing system

15

To increase the volume, press the volume control
upwards. To decrease the volume, press the volume
control downwards (Fig. 1a) (for standard models
only, the micro model does not have a volume control).

In order to change a hearing program, press the program
switch displayed (Fig. 1b).

Fig. 1a

Fig. 1b

Decrease volume

Increase volume

16

Step 2. Battery preparation

Remove the protective foil from the new battery (Fig. 2).
Wait for two minutes before inserting to activate the
battery.

Step 3. Inserting the battery

Take the hearing system in your hand (Fig. 3a) and
open the battery door. Insert the battery so that you
see the + symbol on the battery (Fig. 3b).

Fig. 2

Fig. 3a Fig. 3b

4. Using the hearing system

17

Step 4. Turning on the hearing system

Switch on the hearing system by closing the battery
compartment (Fig. 4).

Open and close the battery compartment gently

and carefully.

Check if you feel resistance when closing the

battery compartment. Check to make sure the
battery is correctly inserted and in the correct
direction. If the battery is inserted the wrong
way, the hearing system will not work and the
battery compartment can be damaged.

Fig. 4

18

The hearing system is now switched on. It can take up
to 15 seconds before it starts.
(When you wear the hearing system, you will hear an
acoustic signal).

Step 5. Inserting the hearing system

This step shows you how to correctly insert the hearing
system. The instructions apply for both standard and
micro models of hearing systems. The type of earmold
determines how the hearing system is inserted.

Each hearing system is individually programmed

for your right or left ear. For the first step identify
right and left so you will be able to insert your
hearing system in the correct ear.

4. Using the hearing system

19

Step 5.1 Identifying the hearing systems for the
right and left ear

Color indicator:
right = red
left = blue

Fig. 5a:
Standard hearing system

Fig. 5b:
Micro hearing system

20

Step 5.2 Inserting the hearing system with individual
earmold

With your right hand, take your earmold for the right
ear (red mark on the hearing system, see step 5.1)
between your thumb and forefinger (Fig. 5c).

Take the earmold up to your ear (Fig. 5c). Place the ear
canal part of the earmold into your ear canal (see the
part circled in green, Fig. 5c). Next place the hearing
system behind your ear (Fig. 5d). Then insert the upper
part of the earmold into the upper part of the bowl of
your ear (Fig. 5e).

Fig. 5c

Fig. 5eFig. 5d

4. Using the hearing system

21

If you have problems inserting the hearing system, use
your other hand to gently pull your earlobe downwards.
This opens the ear canal a little more and you can
rotate the earmold until it fits correctly.

Check the fit by running your finger over the bowl of
the ear. You know it fits correctly if, when doing so, you
feel the contour of the bowl of the ear and not the
hearing system (Fig. 5f). In the beginning, please use a
mirror to check.

You have now successfully inserted the right hearing
system. Now insert your left hearing system in the
same way (marked in blue, see step 5.1).

Fig. 5f

22

Step 5.3 Inserting the hearing system with a dome

With your right hand, place the right hearing system
(red mark on the hearing system, see step 5.1) behind
your right ear (Fig. 5g). Place the hearing tube between
your thumb and forefinger. Insert the dome deep enough
into the ear canal so that the hearing tube lies flat on
your ear (Fig. 5h). If your hearing system has a retention
cord, then press it into the bowl of the ear in order to
retain the dome in the ear canal (Fig. 5i).

Fig. 5g Fig. 5h Fig. 5i

4. Using the hearing system

23

If you have problems inserting the hearing system, use
your other hand to gently pull your earlobe downwards.
This opens the ear canal a little more and you can
rotate the dome until it fits correctly.

You have now successfully inserted the right hearing
system. Now insert your left hearing system in the same
way (marked in blue, see step 5.1).

Step 5.4 Inserting the hearing system with a SlimTip

Follow the instructions in Step 5.3, as this procedure
is identical.

24

Step 6. Adjusting the volume control behind the ear

To increase the volume (only possible for standard
models, the micro models do not have a volume control),
press the volume control upwards. To decrease it, press
the volume control downwards using your forefinger.
Use your thumb to lightly support the hearing system
(Fig. 6).

Fig. 6

4. Using the hearing system

Increase volume

Decrease volume

25

Step 7. Selecting the hearing program behind the ear

In order to select or change a hearing program with the
standard hearing system, press the program switch
displayed in (Fig. 7a). For micro hearing systems, press
the program switch displayed in (Fig. 7b).

If you press it again, you change to the next program.
A signal indicates the change.
A signal tone can only be easily heard if you have turned
on the hearing system and you are wearing it correctly
behind the ear.

Fig. 7a: Standard model Fig. 7b: Micro model

26

Step 8. Removing the hearing system

Step 8.1 Removing the hearing system with classic
earmold

Take the hearing system behind your ear (do not
touch the tube!) and lift it above the upper part of
your ear and then gently let go (Fig. 8a).

Use your thumb and forefinger to grasp the earmold
in your ear (not the tube!) and gently remove it from
your ear (Fig. 8b).

Fig. 8a

Fig. 8b

4. Using the hearing system

27

Step 8.2 Removing the hearing system with a dome

Grasp the hearing system by the hearing tube and
carefully remove it from your ear (Fig. 8c).

In very rare cases, the dome can remain in your

ear canal when removing the hearing tube from the
ear. In the unlikely case that the dome does get
stuck in your ear canal, it is strongly recommended
to see a physician for safe removal.

Step 8.3 Removing the hearing system with SlimTip

Follow the instructions in Step 8.2, as this procedure
is identical.

Fig. 8c

28

Step 9. Turning off the hearing system

You can turn off your hearing system by opening the
battery compartment (Fig. 9a/9b).

Fig. 9a: Standard model

Fig. 9b: Micro model

4. Using the hearing system

29

Step 10. Changing the battery

Before the battery is completely empty, your hearing
system will indicate to you that the battery soon needs
to be changed with an acoustic signal. Once this
happens, you have about 30 minutes (in some cases
longer) to change the battery. The battery warning
signal is repeated every half hour. We recommend that
you always keep a spare battery on hand.

Step 11. Changing the battery in hearing systems with
a secured battery compartment

The standard and micro models have the option to be
fitted with a tamper proof battery compartment if
needed for safety reasons. The standard and micro
hearing system use the same type of tamperproof
battery compartment. The micro is used in the following
example to show how the battery is changed.

30

Micro hearing system

After you have opened the battery compartment, pull
the plastic tab on top of the battery back until you feel
it engage (Fig. 11a). Afterwards, press the tab up
(Fig. 11b).

Fig. 11a Fig. 11b

The old battery can now be replaced and a new one
inserted (Fig. 11c).

Place the plastic tab back over the battery and

secure it before closing the battery compartment
(Fig. 11d–11e).

Fig. 11c Fig. 11d Fig. 11e

“click”

“click”

4. Using the hearing system

31

5. Care and maintenance

Diligent and routine care of your hearing system
contributes to outstanding performance and a long
service life.

Please use the following specifications as a guideline:

General information

Before using hair spray or applying cosmetics, you
should remove your hearing system from your ear,
because these products may damage it.

Never wash or clean the Wind and Weather Protector
(see chapter 3). Doing so could cause it to lose its
special acoustic features. Try to avoid touching this
protection, e. g. when inserting or operating the
hearing system.

If you feel pain in or behind your ear, or if it is inflamed,
please check with your hearing care professional or
physician.

32

Daily

Inspect the earmold and tube for earwax and moisture
deposits. Clean the surfaces with a lint-free cloth.
Never use cleaning agents such as household detergents,
soap, etc. for cleaning your hearing system. If you
need to clean your hearing system intensively, ask your
hearing care professional for advice and information
on filters or drying capsules.

Weekly

Clean the earmold with a soft, damp cloth or with
a special cleaning cloth for hearing systems. For more
in depth maintenance instructions or for more than
basic cleaning, please see your hearing care professional.

Monthly

Inspect your hearing tube for color changes, hardening,
or cracks. In the case of such changes, the hearing
tube has to be replaced. Please see your hearing care
professional.

5. Care and maintenance

33

Hearing systems sound softer than usual / no sound

First check whether you can adjust and make the
sound louder with the volume control. Then check the
hearing tube and earmold for earwax residue and
clean if necessary. Check whether the battery is correctly
inserted and properly fitted, adjust the fit if necessary.
If there is no improvement, change the battery. If the
problem persists, contact your hearing care professional.

Battery discharges too quickly

Insert a new battery and make note of exactly how
long it lasts. Contact your hearing care professional
with this information, they will be able to help and
advise you.

Crackling or buzzing noises

Check the hearing tube and earmold for earwax residue.
Check the hearing tube for damage (color changes,
hardening, or cracks) and contact your hearing care
professional if necessary for replacement.

6. Troubleshooting

34

Whistling

Check whether the earmold is correctly and firmly
fitted. If this is the case, but the problem persists,
please consult with your hearing care professional.

Pain or inflammation in your ear

Remove the hearing system and consult with your
hearing care professional. If the problem is serious,
please contact your physician.

FM Systems are wireless communication systems
consisting of a radio transmitter and a radio receiver.
The transmitter is placed close to the sound source
(e. g. TV/Radio/lectern). The sound is transmitted clearly
and directly to the hearing system in the form of
radio signals – without disruptive background noises
or echoes.

7. FM systems

6. Troubleshooting

35

Phonak is a leader in FM communication. In order
to take advantage of the benefits of these high-tech
radio systems, consult with your hearing care pro­fessional.

If you already have an FM system and need additional
information on using this system, please consult the
relevant user instructions on the FM transmitter or the
FM receiver.

For more information, please visit www.phonak.com,
or ask your hearing care professional.

36

8. Service and warranty

Phonak offers you a comprehensive, worldwide
warranty, valid starting from the date of purchase.
Please ask your hearing care professional about
the term of the warranty valid in the country of
purchase. The warranty covers repairs in case of
processing and material errors.

No warranty claims will be considered if the hearing
system shows normal wear and tear, improper handling
or care, exposure to chemicals, immersion in water or
undue stress. In case of damage caused by third parties or
non-authorized service, the Phonak warranty is null and
void. This warranty does not cover services performed by
a hearing care professional at his or her workplace.

Serial number of the Serial number of the
left hearing system right hearing system

Purchase date:

37

With the CE symbol, Phonak AG
confirms that this Phonak product –
including accessories – meets the
requirements of the Medical Devices
Directive 93/42/EEC as well as the
R&TTE Directive 199/5/EC on radio
and telecommunications transmitters.
The numbers after the CE symbol
correspond to the code of certified
institutions that were consulted
under the above-mentioned directives.

This symbol indicates that the
products described in these user
instructions adhere to the require­ments for an application part of
Type BF of EN 60601-1. The surface
of the hearing system is specified
as application part of Type BF.

9. Information and description
of symbols

XXXX

38

This symbol indicates that it is
important for the user to read and
take into account the relevant
information in these user guides.

This symbol indicates that it is impor­tant for the user to pay attention to
the relevant warning notices in these
user guides.

Important information for handling
and product safety.

The product is designed such that
it functions without problems
or restrictions if used as intended,
unless otherwise noted in these
user guides.

Operating
conditions

9. Information and description of symbols

39

During transport or storage, the
temperature should not exceed the
limit values of –20°/60° Celsius
and relative humidity of 65% for a
long period of time. The air pressure
range between 500 and 1100 hPa
is appropriate.

The symbol with the crossed-out
garbage bin is to make you aware
that this hearing system may not
be thrown away as normal household
waste. Please dispose of old or unused
hearing systems, at waste disposal
sites intended for electronic waste,
or give your hearing system to your
hearing care professional for
disposal. Proper disposal protects
the environment and health.

Transport
and storage
conditions

Manufacturer:

Phonak AG
Laubisrütistrasse 28
CH-8712 Stäfa
Switzerland

www.phonak.com

0459

029-0352-02/2009-09/A+W Printed in Switzerland

© Phonak AG All rights reserved