Frequently Asked Questions

 

My receiver’s are not working, can surge protectors or power strips be used with Sonic Alert products?

If you have a receiver or receivers that are not working, and your using a surge protector or power strip the signal is probably being blocked by the filters in these type of products. Try removing these devices and test your system.

 

My receivers are False flashing they just flash at random times, what is the problem?

The problem you’re experiencing is called false flashing; the problem is in the 110-volt power lines that are wired throughout your home for your electricity usage.  There is a frequency signal coming from something either in your home or the home /apt that shares the same power transformer. It’s possible that the problem is coming from a TV, florescent lighting, halogen lighting, vacuum cleaner, microwave oven or something with an on/off button. Power supplies in these items when turned on or off can cause a signal to go back into the 110 lines, this signal is operating at the same frequency that our receivers are programmed- causing them to flash or set off the vibrator on SB1000 clocks.

 

Possible Solutions:

1) Identify the source of the false signal and understand when it is turned on or off this is causing the problem, usually just understanding the problem is enough, not requiring any action.  This could be an everyday appliance in your home such as a fridge or microwave, even your television.  If you can find that problem appliance that is setting off your receivers, try plugging that problem appliance into a noise filter made by Filter Linc, you can find one at this website:  www.homesafe.com/1626.html or www.homesafe.com. 

 

2) It is also possible to add a surge protector to the appliance that you identified to be the problem. Surge protectors have noise filters in them that can filter out the false signal not allowing them into the 110 power lines.

 

3) To correct this we need to change the frequency (CHANNEL CHANGE) that your signalers and receivers operate at.

 

Channel Change:

Problem: Receivers flash at random times is called false flashing.

The problem is static interference in your lines caused by another electrical item. This can usually be corrected by changing the channel within your units. This will change the signals that your units send and receive. In most cases this change is very effective.  Once this channel change has been done to ALL of your Sonic Alert units, that problem appliance will no longer interfere or cause false flashing.

 

  • To make this change you will need to send ALL your units that say Sonic Alert to us; this is important because all Sonic Alert units need to be set to the same channel in order to ALL work together. Think of this as a 2-way radio, to work they both need to be on the same channel.

What is a Ringer Equivalence Number?
A Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) is a number assigned to every device (fax machine, telephone, answering machine, TDD, computer modem, signalers, etc.) that connects to your telephone service. Each device plugged into your telephone line will draw power. Once you have exceeded the amount of power given by your telephone company, many of the devices plugged in will not ring. Sonic Alert telephone signalers have the lowest Ringer Equivalence Numbers in the industry.

How can Sonic Alert’s Visual Alerting Systems help me?
Sonic Alert’s products are designed to help people with impaired hearing stay in touch with the world around them. This is done by flashing lights around your home or office to let you know that your telephone or doorbell is ringing, your baby is crying, your alarm clock has gone off, and so forth. We also have a bed vibrator that will shake your bed to wake you up if flashing lights do not work for you. Each sound will produce a different flashing pattern so you will always know why the lights are flashing.

Do I need to buy special lights?
You can use the lamps that you already have in your home. You just plug them into the outlets on our products and your new system is ready to use!

Can I buy a few products now and add more later?
Yes! Only buy the signalers that you need now, and you can add more as your needs grow. Remember that you can have as many signalers and remote receivers as you need. And you can just unplug them and take them with you when you move.

How do I know your products will really work for me?
Sonic Alert is confident that our nationwide network of dealers and distributors will help you select the right products for your needs. To back this up, we offer a 30-day money back guarantee. If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with your Sonic Alert signalers, you can return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. All Sonic Alert products are also covered by a one year warranty against manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship.