What is SMART Audio?
SMART Audio is a classroom amplification system that includes an infrared (IR) receiver, a ceiling-mounted IR sensor, wireless microphones and speakers. It is installed in classrooms to enhance the clarity of teachers’ voices so that all students can hear the lesson, no matter where they are seated. This is especially important in classrooms where climate control systems, background noise, poor acoustical planning or hearing deficiencies make it difficult for teachers and students to hear each other.
Who will benefit from SMART Audio?
Every person in a classroom can benefit from the system. Students will hear lessons better because the teacher’s voice can easily overcome any background noise. And because teachers won’t have to raise their voices to be heard, they’ll experience reduced vocal strain. Students who are ESL learners or who have learning, attention or behavioral difficulties will particularly benefit from SMART Audio. Overall, classroom stress can be reduced and student engagement will increase.
Why would I need SMART Audio if I already speak loudly?
Audio decreases in strength over distance, so a loud voice does not guarantee that all students will hear consonants in a similar fashion. In general, loud voices do not make spoken words more intelligible. SMART Audio uses four speakers to distribute sound evenly throughout a classroom, so students at the back of the room will hear just as clearly as those sitting at the front.
What components make up the system?
SMART Audio includes an IR receiver, a wearable wireless teacher microphone, a handheld wireless student microphone, a ceiling-mounted IR sensor, two microphone chargers, four rechargeable AA batteries and a choice of four ceiling- or wall-mounted speakers.
Where are the volume controls?
Several volume controls are located on the front of the receiver, including dials for both microphones and two auxiliary inputs. A tone control dial is also provided.
Can I connect multiple devices to SMART Audio?
Yes. You can connect different multimedia devices to the system's receiver through the two auxiliary RCA inputs or the pre-out output. The following are some of the products that can be connected to the receiver:
- Computer
- DVD player
- VCR
- CD player
- Cassette tape player
- Television
- Stereo system
Can the teacher and student microphones work simultaneously?
Yes. SMART Audio enables both the teacher and student to speak at the same time.
How do I wear the teacher microphone transmitter?
The best option is to wear the integrated teacher microphone and infrared transmitter around your neck. This way, you don’t need to carry a wired microphone or worry about cable management. If you prefer, you can instead clip the transmitter to your belt or clothing, but this option requires you to use a wired microphone (not included).
Can I still be heard when multimedia audio is playing?
Yes. You can speak over any multimedia audio to add commentary or describe what students are hearing.
How many microphones can be used with the system?
Since SMART Audio includes a dual-channel receiver, a maximum of two microphones can be used simultaneously within one classroom. If you have more than one system, it is possible to use two teacher microphones, two student microphones or the standard teacher and student microphone combination.
How can I adjust the volume of the microphones?
During a lesson, you can adjust the volume of the teacher and student microphones using dials on the receiver.
Are tone controls included?
Yes. The receiver has a tone control dial that enables you to adjust the tone of the audio output to suit your personal preferences.
Is infrared technology safe?
Yes. Infrared technology poses no health risks. It is used in many other products, such as television remote controls.
How many infrared sensors are included with SMART Audio?
SMART Audio comes with two IR sensors – one that is integrated into the receiver and another separate ceiling-mounted sensor. Only one can be used at a time. For optimal performance, we recommend that you install and use the ceiling-mounted IR sensor. You must select the sensor you wish to use by adjusting a switch on the side of the receiver.
How long do the batteries last, and how long do they take to charge?
Under normal conditions, you can expect the batteries in the teacher microphone to last for approximately eight hours. Those in the student microphone last for about six hours. Batteries in both microphones take about eight hours to charge.
What kind of batteries are included with the microphones?
Four rechargeable NiMH AA batteries are included with SMART Audio. Each microphone uses two of these batteries.
Can I use standard alkaline batteries with the microphones?
Yes. You can use any AA battery with the microphones, but the usage time will vary accordingly. You cannot charge standard alkaline batteries or other types of rechargeable batteries with SMART Audio’s microphone chargers.
Does SMART Audio need to be connected to a computer?
No. You can experience the benefits of the system without needing a computer.
If I already have a set of speakers in my classroom, can I use them with the SMART Audio receiver, microphones and ceiling-mounted infrared sensor?
If your speakers support a minimum of five watts of power, this may be possible. However, please note that SMART does not support third-party speakers or installations that do not incorporate all SMART Audio components.
In what types of rooms can the amplification system be installed?
The main components of the system (infrared receiver and speakers) can be installed on concrete, cinder block or stud walls.
How do I install the speakers in the classroom?
SMART Audio’s wall speakers come with mounting brackets that can be installed on any concrete, cinder block or stud wall. The ceiling speakers can be installed on any ceiling tile or false ceiling. Step-by-step instructions are included to guide you through the installation process.
How many boxes are shipped with SMART Audio?
One box contains all the SMART Audio components.
Does SMART Audio come with a warranty?
Yes. All SMART Audio components, excluding batteries, come with a standard two-year warranty. The batteries come with a 30-day warranty.
