MICROWARE Feir Cassette to MP3 Converter

1. Inleiding

The MICROWARE Feir Cassette to MP3 Converter (Model EC-007U2) is a portable device designed to convert your old cassette tapes into digital MP3 format. This standalone unit allows you to record audio directly to a USB flash drive without the need for a computer. It also functions as a cassette player, enabling you to listen to your tapes or recorded MP3s through headphones or an external speaker system.

This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your cassette converter to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Image 1: The Feir Cassette to MP3 Converter with a USB drive, illustrating the conversion process from cassette to digital MP3 format.

2. Inhoud van het pakket

Controleer het pakket op de volgende items:

• MICROWARE Feir Cassette to MP3 Converter (EC-007U2)
• USB Cable (for power supply)
• Koptelefoon
• Gebruiksaanwijzing

3. Product voorbijview

Familiarize yourself with the various parts and controls of your cassette converter.

Afbeelding 2: Voorkant view of the converter with headphones and a USB drive connected, highlighting its portable use.

Afbeelding 3: Zijkant view of the converter, detailing the audio output (headphone) and auxiliary (AUX) input ports.

Bedieningselementen en poorten:

• Cassettecompartiment: Holds the cassette tape.
• USB-poort: For connecting a USB flash drive to save MP3 files.
• Mini-USB-poort: For power supply (via USB cable).
• Koptelefoonaansluiting (3.5 mm): Voor het aansluiten van een hoofdtelefoon of externe luidsprekers.
• AUX-ingang (3.5 mm): For recording audio from other sources.
• Play/Stop/Fast Forward/Rewind Buttons: Standard cassette player controls.
• Opnameknop: Start de opname naar USB.
• Automatische/handmatige schakelaar: Selects recording mode.
• Volumeregeling: Hiermee wordt het afspeelvolume aangepast.
• LED-indicator: Shows power and recording status.

4. Het apparaat van stroom voorzien

The converter can be powered by two (2) AA batteries or via the included USB cable.

• Batterijvermogen: Open het batterijcompartiment aan de achterkant van het apparaat en plaats twee AA-batterijen, let daarbij op de juiste polariteit.
• Usb vermogen: Connect the small end of the USB cable to the Mini USB port on the device and the standard USB end to a USB power adapter (not included) or a computer's USB port.

5. Instellen

5.1 Een cassettebandje plaatsen

1. Press the 'Open' button or slide the latch to open the cassette compartment cover.
2. Insert your cassette tape with the open edge facing upwards and the side you wish to play/record facing you.
3. Close the cassette compartment cover firmly until it clicks into place.

Image 4: Illustrates the process of opening the cassette compartment and inserting a tape.

5.2 Een USB-flashdrive plaatsen

Insert a USB flash drive (FAT32 format recommended) into the USB port on the side of the converter. Ensure it is inserted correctly and securely.

6. Gebruiksaanwijzing

6.1 Recording Cassette to MP3

There are two recording modes: Automatic and Manual.

• Automatische modus: Slide the A/M switch to 'A'. In this mode, the converter attempts to detect pauses between songs and automatically creates separate MP3 files voor elk spoor.
• Handmatige modus: Slide the A/M switch to 'M'. In this mode, you manually start and stop the recording, creating one continuous MP3 file tot gestopt.

Opnamestappen:

1. Ensure a USB flash drive is inserted and the cassette tape is loaded.
2. Select your desired recording mode (Auto or Manual).
3. Press the 'Play' button on the converter to start playing the cassette.
4. Press the 'Record' button. The LED indicator will light up, indicating recording is in progress.
5. To stop recording, press the 'Record' button again. The LED indicator will turn off.
6. Press the 'Stop' button to stop cassette playback.

Recorded MP3 files will be saved in a folder named 'TAPECAPTURE' on your USB flash drive.

Image 5: Visual representation of the cassette to MP3 conversion process using the device and a USB drive.

6.2 Afspelen

You can play back cassette tapes or recorded MP3 files rechtstreeks op het apparaat.

• Cassettes afspelen: Insert a cassette, connect headphones or speakers, and press the 'Play' button. Adjust volume as needed.
• MP3's afspelen: With a USB drive inserted containing MP3s, press the 'Play' button. The device will automatically play the MP3 files. Use the Fast Forward/Rewind buttons to skip tracks.

Image 6: The converter demonstrating standalone operation, allowing playback of both cassettes and recorded MP3s.

7. Verbinding maken met externe apparaten

• Koptelefoon/Luidsprekers: Connect the included headphones or your own 3.5mm audio cable to the headphone jack for private listening or connecting to external speakers.
• Audio-ingang (AUX): Use a 3.5mm audio cable (not included) to connect an external audio source (e.g., another MP3 player, CD player) to the AUX input port. You can then record audio from this source to your USB flash drive by following the recording steps.

8. Probleemoplossing

• Geen stroom: Ensure batteries are correctly inserted or the USB power cable is securely connected to a working power source.
• No Sound during Playback: Check headphone connection, adjust volume, ensure cassette is playing, or MP3 files are present on the USB drive.
• Recording Not Starting/Saving: Ensure a USB flash drive is inserted and has sufficient free space. Check if the USB drive is formatted to FAT32. Press the 'Record' button firmly.
• Slechte opnamekwaliteit: Ensure the cassette tape is in good condition. Clean the tape heads if necessary (see Maintenance). Avoid recording in noisy environments.
• Automatic Mode Creates Too Many Files: The automatic mode's sensitivity to pauses can sometimes split a single song. Use Manual mode for precise control over track separation.
• USB-schijf niet herkend: Try a different USB flash drive. Ensure it is formatted to FAT32.

9. Specificaties

• Model: EC-007U2
• Afmetingen (L x B x H): Ongeveer 3.8 x 2 x 1 inch
• Gewicht: Ongeveer 9.6 gram
• Voeding: 2 x AA Batteries or 5V DC via Mini USB
• Audio-uitvoer: 3.5 mm stereo-aansluiting
• Audio-ingang: 3.5mm Stereo Jack (AUX)
• USB-interface: USB 2.0
• Opnameformaat: MP3
• Compatible USB Drive Format: FAT32
• Compatibele apparaten: Headphones, MP3 Player, PC (for file overdracht)

10. Onderhoud

• Schoonmaak: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. For tape heads and pinch rollers, use a cotton swab lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Perform this cleaning periodically to ensure optimal sound quality and prevent tape damage.
• Opslag: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Remove batteries if the device will not be used for an extended period.
• Behandeling: Handle the device with care to avoid physical damage, as it contains delicate internal components.

11. Garantie en ondersteuning

Voor garantie-informatie en technische ondersteuning kunt u de documentatie raadplegen die u bij aankoop hebt ontvangen of contact opnemen met uw winkelier. Bewaar uw aankoopbewijs voor garantieclaims.