Sonic Bliss miniBTE User Manual

Bliss miniBTE User Guide

bliss

bliss

Hearing Instrument Serial Number:
Left Right

Hearing Instrument Model:

Left Right

Battery Size: 13A

Listening Listening
Program # Environment

1
2
3
4

Right/Left Instruments Synchronized:

r Active r Inactive

Program Button: Program Button Mute:

r Active r Inactive r Active r Inactive

Preferred Telephone Ear:

r Right r Left r Both

Non-Telephone Ear Control

r No change
r Softer when telephone is in use
r Mutes when telephone is in use

02

SONIC · BLISS

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BLISS · USER GUIDE miniBTE

The following hearing instruments are covered
in this User Guide:

Bliss miniBTE

BL100 MN

BL80 MN

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SONIC · BLISS

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Table of Contents

Congratulations on Your Purchase! 09

General Warnings and Safety Guidelines 10

Hearing Expectations 15

Your Bliss miniBTE Hearing Instrument –
with Thin Tube 18

Your Bliss miniBTE Hearing Instrument –
with Earhook and Earmold 19

Turning Your Hearing Instrument OFF and ON 20

Putting On Your Hearing Instrument – Thin Tube 21

Taking Off Your Hearing Instrument – Thin Tube 22

Putting On Your Hearing Instrument – Earhook 23

Taking Off Your Hearing Instrument – Earhook 24

Changing the Programs 25

Changing the Volume 27

Using the Telephone 28

Changing the Battery 32

Audible Indicators 36

Safety Lock 37

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Data Logging and Learning 38

Direct Audio Input and FM 39

Caring for Your Hearing Instruments 42

Operating Your Bliss miniBTE
with the RC-P Remote Control 48

Operating Your Bliss miniBTE
with the SoundGate Communication Device 49

Environmental Protection 50

Product Approval, Markings and Compliance 52

Cell Phone and Hearing Instrument Compatibility 54

Warranty and Repairs 56

Accessories 57

Common Problems and Solutions 58

Information for the Hearing Care Provider 62

Compliance with Requirements for Europe 64

Compliance with Radio Communications
Requirements for the USA and Canada 65

Information and Explanation of Symbols 68

Service 70

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Congratulations On Your Purchase!
With a little practice, you will soon be on your
way to better hearing. The amplification of
sound provided by your hearing instruments
was adjusted by your hearing care provider
to the needs of your individual hearing loss.

Please read the entire contents of this booklet before
using your hearing instruments. It contains instructions
and important information about the use and handling
of your hearing instruments and batteries. With proper
use and care, your hearing instruments will improve
your connection with the world around you.

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General Warnings and Safety Guidelines

Hearing instruments and batteries can be dangerous if
swallowed or improperly used. Such actions can result
in severe injury, permanent hearing loss or even
fatality.

Familiarize yourself completely with the following
general warnings and safety guidelines before using
your hearing instruments.

Hazard warnings

Never allow others to wear your hearing instru-

ments. They are adjusted for your hearing
requirements and may permanently damage
another person’s hearing.

Avoid wearing your hearing instrument while

playing contact sports (e.g. rugby, football etc.),
since a strike to the ear could be harmful.

Hearing instruments, their parts and batteries

should be kept out of reach of infants, children
and anyone who might swallow these items
or otherwise cause themselves injury.

Take care when changing and discarding

batteries to keep them out of reach of infants,
children, persons of mental incapacity or pets.

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Clean your hearing instruments and their parts

on a regular basis as recommended. Micro­organisms from unclean instruments may cause
skin irritations.

Be careful with leaking battery liquid, as it is

a hazardous substance.

Never attempt to recharge non-rechargeable

batteries.

Be aware of the possibility that your hearing

instruments may stop functioning without notice.
Keep this in mind while you circulate in traffic
or otherwise depend on warning sounds.

Remove your instruments before applying

aftershave, hairspray, oils, perfume, mosquito
repellent, lotions, etc. Allow the product
to dry before wearing your instruments.

Traffic or other warning sounds may be reduced

in level by a directional microphone when these
sounds are coming from behind you.

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Warning to hearing care provider and patient

Special care should be taken when fitting
and using a hearing instrument with maximum
sound pressure capability in excess of 132 dB SPL
IEC 60318-4 since there may be a risk of impairing
the remaining hearing of the patient.

Warning to hearing care provider and patient

When the DAI is connected to AC-powered
equipment, this equipment must comply with
IEC-60601 or equivalent safety standards.

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Safety information

· Hearing instruments should be used only as directed
and adjusted by your trained hearing care provider.
Misuse or improper adjustments can result in sudden
and permanent hearing loss.

· Never put your hearing instrument or batteries
in your mouth, as they could easily be swallowed

· Keep batteries away from medications, since
they can easily be mistaken for pills

· In the event that a battery or hearing instrument
is swallowed, see a doctor immediately

· Be aware that use of a hearing instrument may cause
excess earwax to build up in the ear canal which may
require removal by a trained medical professional

· Consult your physician if excessive earwax, skin
irritation, or a foreign object prevents you from
wearing your hearing instrument

· An Earmold is a custom-made product. If you
experience discomfort or irritation of your ear,
please see your hearing care provider immediately
for modification of the Earmold.

· In rare cases, a hearing instrument or Earmold may
cause a discharge from the ear or allergic reaction.
See a physician immediately if these conditions occur.

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· Never insert cleaning tools into the microphone inlet
or deeply into the sound outlet. This could damage
the hearing instruments.

· Do not expose hearing instruments to extreme
heat by leaving them in the car, near a radiator, etc.

· Avoid exposing your instruments to water and
moisture i.e. steambaths, showers, heavy rain, etc.

· Do not wear your hearing instrument while
swimming, snorkeling or diving, as it is not designed
for such activities

· Do not immerse your hearing instrument in water
or other liquids

· Never attempt to dry your instruments with
a hair dryer, microwave oven, etc.

· It is recommended to remove your hearing
instruments before sleeping

· Protect your instruments by keeping them in
the case when you are not wearing them

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Hearing Expectations

Set appropriate expectations

It is important that you have the right expectations
regarding your hearing instruments. Hearing
instruments will give you better hearing, but they
are not a cure for hearing loss.

People whose expectations are too high (“I thought
they would make my hearing normal”) are likely to be
disappointed and may give up.

Hearing instruments can:

· Help you hear and understand better in most
situations

· Allow you to participate more in group situations
and meetings

Hearing instruments cannot:

· Give you normal hearing

Hearing instruments may not:

· Let you hear very soft sounds

· Block ALL background noises – especially in noisy
situations. Even people without hearing loss may
have difficulty hearing in the presence of background
noise.

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Be patient

Unlike with eyeglasses which correct your vision
as soon as you first put them on, with hearing
instruments you will need some time to adjust.

It may take several weeks or months to completely
adjust to your hearing instruments, so try to be
patient. Initially, try different listening situations,
such as one-on-one conversations with family
and friends and conversations with two or three
people at home or in quiet settings. Also, try
having conversations in noisier places like parties,
restaurants, meetings, and outdoors.

Do not forget that some situations are simply too noisy
in general – even for people without hearing loss.
So do not get discouraged.

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Consistent use of your hearing instrument is strongly
recommended. In most cases, infrequent use does
not allow you to obtain the full benefit from your device.

The use of a hearing instrument is only a part of
total hearing rehabilitation, and may need to be
supplemented by auditory training and instruction
in lipreading.

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Your Bliss miniBTE Hearing Instrument –
with Thin Tube

1 Rear microphone
2 Program button
3 Sound outlet
4 Dome
5 Retention lock

6 Battery door
7 Thin Tube
8 Thin Tube Adapter
9 Front microphone

Right/Left ear marking

A color indicator can help
you distinguish right and
left instruments.

Red = right
Blue = left

1

4

3

5

2

6

7

8

9

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Your Bliss miniBTE Hearing Instrument –
with Earhook and Earmold

1 Rear microphone
2 Program button
3 Earmold
4 Battery door

5 Earhook
6 Earmold tubing
7 Front microphone

1

2

5

6

4

3

Serial number

7

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Turning Your Hearing Instrument
OFF and ON

Before turning your hearing instrument off, wipe away
any moisture with a soft cloth. To turn your hearing
instrument off, open the battery door slightly by
pushing on the edge of the seam. To turn it back on,
fully close the battery door.

Your hearing instrument may be programmed to alert
you with a beep when it is turned on. Your hearing
care provider will tell you if this feature is enabled.
Your hearing instrument may also have a “power on”
delay. This allows you to insert the device before it
is fully active.

To prolong battery life, turn off your hearing instrument
when not in use.

ON OFF

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Putting On Your Hearing Instrument –
Thin Tube

· First, position the hearing
instrument over the top
of your ear

· Grasp the bend of the Thin Tube
and gently push the Dome
into your ear canal until the
tube rests against the side
of your head. When the Dome
is placed appropriately, you
should not be able to see
the Thin Tube sticking out
when you look directly into
a mirror. If the Thin Tube
is sticking out from your ear,
insert the Dome further.

· Use your finger to push
the retention lock comfortably
into the bowl of your ear

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Taking Off Your Hearing Instrument –
Thin Tube

To remove your hearing instrument, hold the Thin Tube
and gently pull the Dome out of your ear canal.

· Lift the hearing instrument case from behind
your ear

· Open the battery compartment to turn off the device

Note!

Do not remove the instrument by pulling
on the hearing instrument case. This might
disconnect the device from the Thin Tube.

Should the Dome become separated from
the Thin Tube and remain lodged in your ear canal
after removal of the hearing instrument, do not
attempt to remove the Dome yourself. Seek immediate
care from your hearing care provider or physician.

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Putting On Your Hearing Instrument –
Earhook

· Start with the miniBTE hearing
instrument and Earmold for your
left ear. Connect the Earmold
to the hearing instrument by
pushing the hearing instrument's
Earhook into the tube on the
Earmold.

· Once the two are connected,
hold the Earmold with
your thumb and first finger.
Gently guide it into your
ear canal.

· Gently pulling down on your
ear lobe with your other hand
may help. A slight twist may
be needed to fit the Earmold in
your ear.

· When the Earmold is in your ear,
place the hearing instrument
behind the top part of your ear.
Do the same thing with the right
hearing instrument and Earmold.

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Taking Off Your Hearing Instrument –
Earhook

To take your hearing instrument off, hold the Earmold
with your thumb and first finger. Gently pull it out of
your ear canal.

A slight twist may be needed to remove it. Do not
pull on the tube, as it may come out of the Earmold.
Once the Earmold is out of your ear, remove
the hearing instrument from behind your ear.

Note!

Even though they look the same, hearing
instruments are programmed to fit a specific
ear (right or left). Make sure the correct
hearing instrument is used with the correct
Earmold. Refer to the right/left color indicator
on page 18.

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Changing the Programs

Your hearing instrument can be configured with
multiple listening programs. Please see inside
the front cover of this User Guide to find out which
program(s) have been configured by your hearing
care provider. You can change programs as follows:

Program button

A short press (about 2 seconds) on the program button
will cause the listening program to change. You will
hear the same number of beeps as the program you
are in each time you push the button. When you
turn the hearing instrument off and then on, it will
automatically return to your default listening program
(program 1).

RC-P Remote Control or SoundGate

(optional accessories)
The listening program can be changed with either
of these devices. Please see pages 48 and 49 for
instructions.

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Program button mute

A longer press (about 5 seconds) on the program
button will cause the hearing instrument to mute,
no matter which program you are in. Press the button
again to un-mute the device.

Note!

Your hearing care provider can customize
the behavior of the program button.
Please see inside the front cover to find
out how your control may have been
configured.

Program
button

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Changing the Volume

Your hearing instruments are programmed to be at
a comfortable volume level for your hearing loss.
They are designed to automatically adjust to changes
in the sound environment.

If you have purchased an optional RC-P Remote Control
or SoundGate accessory, you can use it to make
small volume changes to get a natural and comfortable
sound. Please see pages 48 and 49 for further
instructions.

Note!

If the default volume of your hearing
instrument is too loud or soft, your hearing
care provider may need to make changes
to your listening program.

Note!

Your hearing instruments automatically return
to a pre-set loudness level when they are
powered on, when the battery is low, or when
the program is changed. If you find that you
frequently need to turn the volume up or down,
your hearing care provider may need to adjust
your settings.

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Using the Telephone

Your hearing instrument may be programmed with
a dedicated Telephone Program. Your hearing care
provider can configure your hearing instruments
to allow answering the phone on both ears or on your
preferred ear. Please see inside the front cover
to find out if this was configured.

Auto Telephone

Additionally, your hearing instrument has an optional
Auto Telephone feature. When the hearing instrument
is close to a telephone receiver, the Auto Telephone
will activate your telephone listening program. When
you end your conversation, the hearing instrument
will automatically return to the previous listening
program.

If you have a preferred ear, the hearing instrument
on the opposite side can be programmed to sound
softer or mute. Ask your hearing care provider if
this option has been selected for you.

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Note!

Some telephones may need a special magnet
added to help engage the Auto Telephone
feature. To mount the magnet onto your
telephone, please follow the instructions
included in the magnet’s packaging or
contact your hearing care provider.

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Phone usage tips

· Hold the receiver close to the microphone inlet
of your hearing instrument. If this causes whistling,
move the receiver away a small distance.

· Before purchasing a mobile phone, test it with
your hearing instrument

· People with a greater degree of hearing loss
may need a volume control on the telephone

Note!

If your hearing instrument has been configured
without these options, select the program
that is best for you when using the telephone.
Then position the phone lightly against your
ear as described above.

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Magnet warning

· Keep magnets out of reach of children and pets

· If a magnet is swallowed, see a doctor immediately

· Do not place the magnet in a shirt pocket and keep
it 1 ft (30 cm) away from pacemakers and other active
implants

· Use the magnet on the opposite side from active
implantable devices

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Changing the Battery

When the battery power level is low, your hearing
instrument will beep at regular intervals. You should
be prepared to replace the battery. The time until
the hearing instrument stops working depends on
the battery type and manufacturer. Mercury-free
batteries generally cause earlier warning beeps.

Change batteries regularly

When your battery needs to be changed you will
hear three beeps: a low tone, followed by a high
tone and another low tone. The exact battery life
you experience may vary, but you should expect
approximately 200 hours of total hearing instrument
use per battery.

Note!

Never force the battery door open or closed.

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Battery type

Stainless steel zinc-air batteries are recommended.
Your hearing instrument uses a #13A battery.

Remove the old battery:

· Open the battery compartment
by pushing either side of
the compartment with your
fingernail

· Rotate the compartment until
the opening in the battery
retaining ring points directly
away from the body
of the hearing instrument

· Remove the battery by lifting
the exposed edge of the battery
out of the retaining ring

Note!

The battery may spring out
of the retaining ring.
Be careful not to lose it.

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Insert a new battery:

· Grasp the hearing instrument
with your thumb and forefinger
on either side of the open
battery compartment to
keep the compartment
from moving

· Insert a new battery by pushing
it securely into the opening
of the retaining ring

· Once the battery snaps firmly
in the retaining ring, rotate
the retaining ring back into
the battery compartment

· Cup your hand around
the hearing instrument.
A whistling or squealing
sound means the battery
is working.

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Important battery information

· Battery life will vary with conditions of use
(for example, batteries will run down faster
in noisy environments)

· Always keep spare batteries on hand

· A used battery should be replaced immediately

· If you are not going to use your hearing instruments
for a few days, remove the batteries

· Any moisture found on a battery should be wiped
off immediately with a soft cloth

· Always remove zinc-air batteries before drying
your hearing instrument with a drying kit.
Drying out zinc-air batteries shortens their lifetime.

· Used batteries should be returned to your battery
supplier or hearing care provider for safe disposal

· Never dispose of batteries by burning them.
They may explode and cause injury.

· Never dispose of batteries with household waste.
They cause environmental pollution.

· Batteries can be harmful if swallowed. Keep batteries
out of the reach of pets and small children. In case
of ingestion, contact your physician immediately.

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Audible Indicators

Event Tone description

Start Up Delay Configurable short, medium or

long delay before amplification
starts

Power On A sustained beep when

amplification starts

Listening
Program Change*

One to four single beeps;
Number of beeps matches
listening program position

Low Battery Three warning beeps in a

low-high-low pitch sequence

Power Down;
Dying Battery

A fast sequence of beeps
descending in pitch

Audible indicators with optional SoundGate/RC-P

Volume
Control Click*

Brief click to indicate volume
is turning up or down

Volume
Control Limit*

Rapid double beep at both
maximum and minimum levels

SoundGate
Incoming Call*

Telephone ringing signal

* Audible indicators can be heard in the opposite hearing instrument

if the Volume Control and Binaural Volume & Program Change
is activated in the fitting software. Refer to the Owner Information
in the inside cover to see how your devices are configured.

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Safety Lock

As an added safety feature, your battery door has been
designed with a locking mechanism to deter children
from accessing the battery.

With the battery door fully closed, use a small
screwdriver or similar tool to slide the lock up into
the slot. This will prevent the battery door from
opening until you slide it back down again.

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Data Logging and Learning

Data Logging

The data log automatically stores information about
your use of your hearing instruments such as program
changes, hours of wear, etc. This information can be
used by your hearing care provider to adjust your
hearing instruments. If you do not want this feature
to be active, please ask your hearing care provider
to turn it off.

Data Learning (Bliss 100)

If you have purchased a remote control or a SoundGate,
your hearing care provider may have activated Data
Learning. When Data Learning is operating, the
hearing instrument keeps track of how often and
how much you adjust the volume and “learns”
your preferred setting. This new setting can be
made permanent during your follow-up visit.

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Direct Audio Input and FM

A Direct Audio Input (DAI) Adapter allows your hearing
instrument to receive signals directly from external
sources such as TV, personal stereos, etc. An FM
Receiver allows your instrument to receive signals
directly from an external wireless FM Transmitter.

Attaching the DAI Boot

· Slip the DAI Boot over your miniBTE, as shown.
When it is fully seated you will feel it click into place.

· Insert the DAI/Euro Plug or FM Receiver of
the assistive listening device into the DAI Boot

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Removing the DAI Boot

· Disconnect the DAI/Euro Plug or FM Receiver
of the assistive listening device from the DAI Boot

· Grasp the DAI Boot as shown. Pull the hearing
instrument up and out of the boot with your
other hand. A slight twisting motion will help free the
DAI Boot from the miniBTE.

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Direct Audio Input/FM Program

Your hearing instrument has dedicated listening
programs designed to work with a DAI Boot or FM
Receiver. When either is attached, the hearing
instrument will automatically switch into this dedicated
set of programs. Refer to the chart below to see
how the DAI/FM Programs are:

Program Beeps Function

1 1 Instrument microphone
2 2 DAI/FM + Mic*
3 3 DAI/FM only

*Starting program

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Caring for Your Hearing Instruments

Healthy ears produce cerumen, a waxy substance
that can clog your hearing instruments. Please follow
these cleaning instructions to prevent wax build-up
and ensure optimal performance.

Every night

· Check your hearing instruments for ear wax
and wipe them clean with a cloth or tissue

· Use the cleaning tool provided to remove wax
that may have accumulated in the Dome,
sound outlet or vent opening if you have a
Custom Mold

· Open the battery door fully to allow air to circulate

· A dry storage kit is recommended to remove
any moisture that may have accumulated in
the hearing instrument

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If your hearing instrument comes in contact
with water

Should your hearing instrument come in contact with
water and stop working, please follow these guidelines:

· Gently wipe off any water on the outside of the hearing
instrument

· Open the battery door and remove the battery

· Gently wipe off any water in the battery door

· Let the hearing instrument dry with the battery door
open for approximately 30 minutes

· Insert a new fresh battery (see page 34) and close
the battery door. Your hearing instrument should
work normally again.

Note!

If your hearing instrument does not work
properly, consult your hearing care provider.

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If you have an Earmold

You should wash your Earmolds regularly. The hearing
instrument itself must never be washed or allowed
to get wet!

· Handle your instruments over a soft surface
to avoid damage in case you drop them

· Disconnect the Earmold
from the hearing instrument
by grasping the end of
the hook firmly with
one hand and grasping
the tubing firmly with
the other hand

· Pull the tubing away
from the Earhook

· Gently clean the Earmold
in warm soapy water

· Rinse the Earmold
and allow it to dry completely

· Use an air puffer to remove
any remaining moisture in
the tubing

· When re-attaching
the Earmold to
the instrument, it is
important to position
it correctly

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Cleaning the Thin Tube System

If you have the Thin Tube system, make sure that
the Thin Tube and Dome are kept free of ear wax
at all times.

· Grasp the Adapter firmly
and disconnect the
Thin Tube from the
instrument by pulling
it off. Please see page 47
for further instructions.

· Use a soft dry cloth or
tissue to clean the outside
of the Thin Tube and Dome

· To remove wax from the Thin Tube, insert the
cleaning wire at the connector end. Push the wire
all the way into the Thin Tube until it comes out
through the Dome.

· Pull the cleaning wire out through the Dome
and discard it

· Reattach the Thin Tube connector to the Adapter

Note!

To avoid blocking the Thin Tube, do not use
water to clean it.

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Exchanging the Dome

The Dome should be changed regularly. The frequency
of Dome changes will depend on how fast ear wax
builds up on the Dome. Spare Domes can be obtained
from your hearing care provider.

· Remove the old Dome by pulling it off the end
of the Thin Tube

· With clean fingers, push a new Dome as far as
possible onto the Thin Tube. When attached
correctly, the Dome should touch the plastic ring
around the Thin Tube.

Note!

If the Dome is not securely attached to
the Thin Tube, it could fall off in your ear canal.
If this happens, please see your medical
provider.

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Exchanging the Thin Tube system

If the Thin Tube becomes discolored, stiff or brittle,
it should be replaced.

· Hold the instrument by the Adapter and grasp
the Thin Tube close to the connector

· Pull firmly to remove the old Thin Tube

· Attach the new Thin Tube by pushing it firmly into
the connector

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Operating Your Bliss miniBTE
with the RC-P Remote Control

Optional accessory

If you have purchased a remote control, you can use
it to change listening programs, adjust the volume
level up and down, or mute the hearing instruments.

For complete operating instructions, please read
the separate RC-P Remote User Guide.

3

2

1

4

5

1 Program cycle button
2 Volume Control
3 Mute button
4 Status light
5 Key lock

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Operating Your Bliss miniBTE
with the SoundGate Communication Device

Optional accessory

If you have purchased a SoundGate, you may use it
to perform basic functions such as changing the
listening programs, adjusting the volume level up
and down, or muting the hearing instruments. In
addition, the SoundGate serves as a link between
your hearing instruments and external sources
such as music players, cell phones, computers, etc.

For complete operating instructions, please read
the separate SoundGate User Guide.

1 Volume Control
and program change
2 Phone
3 Music/Audio key
(e.g. MP3)
4 Bluetooth

®

key
5 Battery indicator
6 Key lock

1
2

3

4

6

5

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Environmental Protection

Your hearing instruments contain electronic
components subject to the Directive 2002/96/EC on
waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).

Help to protect the environment by not disposing
of your hearing instruments or batteries with your
unsorted household waste. Please recycle your
hearing instruments and batteries according to your
local regulations or return them to your hearing
care provider for disposal.

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Product Approval, Markings
and Compliance

All Sonic hearing instruments comply with international
standards concerning electromagnetic compatibility.
Due to the limited space available on the hearing
instruments all relevant approval markings are found
in this document.

Electromagnetic interference

Your hearing instrument has been thoroughly tested
for electromagnetic interference. However, some
products may emit electromagnetic energy causing
unforeseen interference with hearing instruments.
Examples include induction cooking appliances,
shop alarm systems, mobile phones, fax machines,
personal computers, X-rays, CT scans, etc.

Even though your hearing instruments are designed
to comply with the most stringent international
standards of electromagnetic compatibility, they
may emit electromagnetic energy that can cause
interference with other devices.

Your hearing instruments contain a radio transmitter
using short range magnetic induction technology
working at 3.84 MHz. The magnetic field strength
of the transmitter is < -42 dBμA/m @ 10 m.

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The electromagnetic emission from the radio system
is well below international limits for human exposure.
By comparison, the electromagnetic energy of the
hearing instruments is lower than that generated by
household items such as halogen lamps, computer
monitors, dishwashers etc.

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Cell Phone and Hearing Instrument
Compatibility

Some hearing instrument users have reported a
buzzing sound in their devices when they are
using cell phones, indicating that the cell phone
and hearing instrument may not be compatible.

The compatibility of a particular hearing instrument
and cell phone can be predicted by adding the rating
for the hearing instrument immunity to the rating
for the cell phone emissions (ANSI C63.19-2006
American National Standard Methods of Measurement
of Compatibility between Wireless Communication
Devices and Hearing Aids).

For example, the sum of a hearing instrument with
a rating of 2 (M2/T2) and a telephone with a rating
of 3 (M3/T3) would result in a combined rating of 5.
According to the standard, any combined rating
that equals at least 5 would provide “normal use”;
a combined rating of 6 or greater would indicate
“excellent performance.”

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55

The immunity of your Bliss hearing instrument is
at least M2.

The equipment performance measurements,
categories and system classifications are based
upon the best information available but Sonic
cannot guarantee that all users will be satisfied.

Note!

The performance of individual hearing
instruments may vary with individual cell
phones. Please try this hearing instrument
with your cell phone or, if you are purchasing
a new phone, be sure to try it with your hearing
instrument prior to purchase. For additional
guidance, please ask your cell phone provider
for the booklet entitled “Hearing Aid
Compatibility with Digital Wireless Cell
Phones.“

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Warranty and Repairs

Your hearing instruments have a limited warranty,
covering defects in materials and workmanship.
This warranty covers the hearing instruments
themselves, but not accessories such as batteries,
tubing, Domes, Earmolds, etc.

This warranty is void if a defect is the result of
misuse or mistreatment. The warranty is also void
if the hearing instruments have been repaired
by non-authorized service personnel.

Please review the warranty with your hearing care
provider and make sure that your warranty card is
completed correctly.

Note!

Your hearing care provider may charge
a service fee for processing warranty repairs.

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57

Accessories

Sonic offers a wide range of optional accessories
that may be purchased to enhance your hearing
system. Depending on hearing instrument type and
local regulations, the following accessories are
available:

· RC-P Remote Control

· SoundGate communication device (for wireless
connection to cell phones, music players, etc.)

· TV Adapter (for wireless connection to your television
via the SoundGate)

· Phone Adapter (for wireless connection to your
landline phone via the SoundGate)

For further information on accessories please contact
your hearing care provider.

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Problem Possible cause

Solution

Instrument
whistles
or squeals

Instrument not inserted correctly

Re-insert instrument

Ear wax accumulation in ear canal

Consult your hearing care provider or physician

Instrument may be too loose

Consult your hearing care provider

No volume, level
too soft or
humming noise

Instrument may not be turned ON

Check that the battery door is closed completely

Battery may be dead
or inserted wrong way

Insert a fresh battery

Volume level too soft

Increase volume level with Volume Control
on RC-P or SoundGate (if available)

Instrument may be in telecoil position

Check to make sure you are in the intended program

Ear wax accumulation in ear canal

Consult your hearing care provider or physician

Battery contacts may be dirty
or corroded

Open and close the battery door several times or
clean the battery contacts carefully with a dry Q-tip

Sound outlet may be blocked
or corroded

Check the sound outlet and change the filter
if you can see that it is clogged

Microphone sound inlet may be
blocked

Consult your hearing care provider, do not try
to clean this yourself

Your hearing loss may have
increased

Consult your hearing care provider

Common Problems and Solutions

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59

Solution

Re-insert instrument
Consult your hearing care provider or physician
Consult your hearing care provider

Check that the battery door is closed completely
Insert a fresh battery

Increase volume level with Volume Control
on RC-P or SoundGate (if available)

Check to make sure you are in the intended program
Consult your hearing care provider or physician
Open and close the battery door several times or

clean the battery contacts carefully with a dry Q-tip

Check the sound outlet and change the filter
if you can see that it is clogged

Consult your hearing care provider, do not try
to clean this yourself

Consult your hearing care provider

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Problem Possible cause

Solution

Whirring noise,
fading, weak
or motor-boating
sounds

Battery contacts may be dirty
or corroded

Open and close the battery door several times
or clean the battery contacts with a dry Q-tip

Moisture in hearing instrument

Place hearing instrument in dry-instrument pack.
Remove battery first. Consult your hearing care
provider.

Low battery

Insert a fresh battery

Instrument
switches from
ON to OFF
periodically

Low battery

Insert a fresh battery

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61

Solution

Open and close the battery door several times
or clean the battery contacts with a dry Q-tip

Place hearing instrument in dry-instrument pack.
Remove battery first. Consult your hearing care
provider.

Insert a fresh battery
Insert a fresh battery

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Information for the Hearing Care Provider

A hearing care provider should advise a prospective
hearing instrument user to consult with a licensed
physician (preferably an ear specialist) promptly,
before dispensing a hearing instrument, if the hearing
care provider determines through inquiry, actual
observation or review of any other available
information concerning the prospective user, that
the prospective user has any of the following
conditions:

· Visible congenital or traumatic deformity
of the external or middle ear

· History of active drainage from the ear within
the previous 90 days

· History of sudden or rapidly progressive hearing
loss within the previous 90 days

· Acute or chronic dizziness or vertigo

· Unilateral hearing loss of a sudden or recent onset
within the previous 90 days

· Audiometric air-bone gap equal to or greater than
15 decibels at 500 hertz (Hz), 1000 Hz, and 2000 Hz

· Visible evidence of significant cerumen accumulation
or a foreign body in the ear canal

· Pain or discomfort in the ear

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63

Warning to hearing care provider and patient

Special care should be exercised in selecting and
fitting a hearing instrument whose maximum sound
pressure level exceeds 132 decibels due to the fact
that there may be risk of impairing the remaining
hearing of the hearing instrument user.

Children with hearing loss

A child with a hearing loss should be directed to
a physician for medical evaluation and to other
professionals for evaluation and rehabilitation since
hearing loss may cause problems with language
development and the educational and social growth
of a child.

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Compliance with Requirements for Europe

This device is in conformance with the requirements
of the Directive 93/42/EEC of the Council of the
European Communities concerning medical devices,
MDD. This is certified by applying this marking.

This device also complies with the essential
requirements of the Directive 1999/5/EC of the
European Parliament on radio equipment and
telecommunications terminal equipment, R&TTE.
It operates as an inductive application in a
harmonized frequency band according to the
Commission Decision 2008/432/EC and may
be used in all member states of the EU and EFTA.
This is certified by applying this marking.

Declarations of conformity are available at:
Sonic Innovations, Inc.
2501 Cottontail Lane
Somerset, NJ 08873

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65

Compliance with Radio Communications
Requirements for the USA and Canada

Sonic Innovations, Inc.
Bliss hearing instrument models BL100 MN; BL80 MN

FCC ID ZTOMBTE1

IC: 9799A-MBTE1

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules and
RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:

(1) This device may not cause harmful interference,
and

(2) This device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired
operation.

This Class B digital apparatus complies with
Canadian ICES-003.

Note!

This equipment has been tested and found
to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.

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66

These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation.

This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation.

If this equipment does cause harmful interference to
radio or television reception, which can be determined
by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one
or more of the following measures:

· Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna

· Increase the separation between the 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

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67

Note!

Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by Sonic could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.

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Information and Explanation of Symbols

The CE conformity marking indicates
conformance to all applicable
European Directives

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

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

This sign indicates important safety
information that must be observed
to minimize risks or to avoid
hazardous situations

Important information for handling
and product safety

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69

The crossed-out wheeled bin
indicates that the European Directive
on waste of electronic equipment
applies

Operating
conditions

The product is designed such
that it functions without problem
or restrictions if used as intended,
unless otherwise noted in these
instructions for use

Transport
and storage
conditions

During transport or storage,
the temperature should not exceed
the limit value of –13°/140° Fahrenheit
(–25°/60° Celsius)

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Service

If none of the actions listed in the previous pages
correct a problem you may have with your hearing
instrument, contact your authorized Sonic service
representative. Do not attempt to service your
hearing instruments yourself or your warranty may
be voided.

Place stamp with dispenser name and address here:

125934 | UK

sonic · BLiss

Sonic AG

Morgenstrasse 131B
3018 Bern, Switzerland
[phone]

Sonic Innovations, Inc.

2501 Cottontail Lane
Somerset, NJ 08873 USA
[phone]

11.12 | 125934 | UK

www.sonici.com

World Headquarters

Sonic Innovations, Inc.

2501 Cottontail Lane
Somerset, NJ 08873 USA
+ 1 888 423 7834

Canada

Sonic Innovations Canada Ltd.

2885-B le Corbusier Blvd
Laval, Québec H7L 4J5
+ 1 800 667 7664

Australia

Sonic Australia

1/10 Dorsey Street
Milton, QLD 4064, Australia
Tel: + 61 7 3368 4044
Free call (Australia only)
1800 639 263

International

Sonic AG

Morgenstrasse 131B
3018 Bern, Switzerland
+ 41 31 560 21 21

France

Sonic France

Parc des Barbanniers
3 allée des Barbanniers
CS 40006
92635 Gennevilliers cedex
[phone]

Germany

Sonic Hörgeräte GmbH

Nunsdorfer Ring 14
12277 Berlin
+ 49 30 24 63 28 0

Italy

Sonic Italia

Piazza delle Crociate 16
00162 Roma
+ 39 06 44 24 68 52

Sonic AG

Morgenstrasse 131B
3018 Bern, Switzerland
[phone]