Talking Products MP3 Sound Chip Module (SM2-MP3-4MB) Instruction Manual

1. Produto rematadoview

The Talking Products MP3 Sound Chip Module with 4MB memory is designed for integrating custom audio into various projects. It supports MP3 file playback and offers multiple activation methods, including push button and light sensor. The module is powered by AAA batteries (not included) and allows for easy file transfer via a Micro-B USB connection.

2. Contido do paquete

• MP3 Sound Chip Module (SM2-MP3-4MB)
• AAA Battery Box (requires 3 x AAA batteries, not included)
• USB cable (for file transfer and power)
• Push Button (pre-wired)
• Speaker (40mm Diameter, 8 Ohm 0.5W)
• Self-Adhesive Label

Note: Some components like the light sensor or alternative buttons may be sold separately or included in specific kits.

3. Características do produto

• 4MB Built-in Flash Memory: Provides approximately 4 minutes of playback. Option to alter the sample rate to achieve 8 minutes of playback.
• Conectividade USB: Download MP3 files via the USB socket.
• Múltiples opcións de reprodución: Includes push button and light sensor activation.
• File Reprodución: Playback one single file ou múltiple files in sequence (sorted by file nome).
• Uso versátil: Ideal for talking gifts, cards, crafts, train sets, models, photo frames, and cosplay accessories.

4. Instrucións de configuración

4.1 Identificación de compoñentes

This image illustrates the main components of the MP3 Sound Chip Module. It shows the battery box with an ON/OFF switch, the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) with a Micro-B type USB socket for file transfer and a mode switch, a 40mm diameter 8 Ohm 0.5W speaker, and a 12x12mm play button. Wires connect these components, with lengths specified (150mm for battery to PCB, 50mm for button to PCB, 50mm for speaker to PCB). A 2-pin plug and socket are present to connect alternative play buttons or switches.

4.2 Connecting Power and Playback Mechanism

1. Inserir pilas: Open the AAA battery box and insert 3 x AAA batteries (not included), ensuring correct polarity.
2. Conectar caixa de batería: Plug the connector from the AAA battery box into the corresponding port on the MP3 Sound Chip Module PCB.
3. Connect Play Button/Sensor:
   • If using the included push button, ensure it is securely plugged into the "PLAY" port on the PCB.
   • If using an alternative sensor (e.g., light sensor, magnetic sensor), plug it into the appropriate port on the PCB.

   

   This image shows the MP3 Sound Module with a light sensor connected. The light sensor replaces the standard push button for activation. The sensor is a small, cylindrical component with two wires leading to a connector that plugs into the module's playback port.

   

   This image demonstrates the MP3 Sound Module connected to a larger, red push button. This illustrates the flexibility of connecting different types of buttons or switches to the module's playback input.
4. Conexión do altofalante: The speaker is pre-wired to the module. Ensure the connection is secure.

5.Audio File Xestión

5.1 USB Cable Requirements

This image shows a Micro-B USB to Type-A USB cable. This type of cable is required for MP3 file transfer to the module and is commonly used for many USB devices. It is crucial to use a 'Data-transfer' type cable, not just a charging-only cable. This cable is typically not included with the module and must be acquired separately if needed.

5.2 Uploading MP3 Files

1. Conectar ao ordenador: Turn the module's ON/OFF switch to the "ON" position. Connect the module to your computer using a data-transfer Micro-B USB cable. The module should appear as an external drive (e.g., "NO NAME" on Mac, or a USB Drive letter on PC).
2. Eliminar o existente Files: It is recommended to delete any pre-loaded or old MP3 files from the module's drive before adding new ones.
   • Important for Mac Users: Oculto files (e.g., ".DS_Store" or "._*.mp3") can cause playback issues (e.g., requiring multiple presses to skip). Use Terminal commands (ls -a a view, find . -maxdepth 1 -type f -name '._*.mp3' -delete to delete) to ensure all hidden files son eliminados.
   • DO NOT FORMAT THE UNIT.
3. Transfer New MP3s: Copy and paste your desired MP3 audio files directly into the module's drive.
   • File Formato: Asegura o teu audio files are in MP3 format. The unit will not play other file formats. You can convert non-MP3 files using dedicated free websitios.
   • Especificacións de audio: For optimal performance and to avoid issues like multiple button presses, convert MP3 files to MONO, 44.1kHz, 16-bit, and 128 kbps using audio editing software like Audacity.
   • Capacidade: The 4MB memory provides approximately 4 minutes of playback. Adjusting the sample rate can extend this to 8 minutes. The total capacity of uploaded MP3 files must not exceed the module's memory.
4. Expulsar con seguridade: Unha vez file transfer is complete, safely eject the external drive from your computer before unplugging the USB cable.

5.3 Recording Function (Third-Generation Modules)

Some third-generation modules may feature a direct recording function. If your module has this feature:

1. Ensure Switch is ON: Confirm the module's ON/OFF switch is in the "ON" position.
2. Activate Recording: Press and hold the dedicated record button (often a small white dot on the PCB) for 2 seconds until you hear a beep. Release the button to start recording.
3. Deter a gravación: Press the record button again. You will hear two beeps, indicating recording is complete.
4. Gravación de reprodución: Press the play button to start playing your recorded audio.

Descrición do vídeo: This video demonstrates the recording and playback functions of a programmable sound recorder module. It shows how to turn on the switch, use the play button to cycle through pre-loaded songs, adjust volume levels, and then use a dedicated record button to record new audio. The process involves pressing and holding for 2 seconds to start recording, then pressing again to stop, followed by playback using the play button.

6. Instrucións de funcionamento

1. Encendido: Slide the ON/OFF switch on the battery box to the "ON" position.
2. Reprodución:
   • Botón: Press the connected push button once to play the first audio file. Press it again to play the next file in sequence. If not pressed again, the current file will stop after playing.
   • Sensor de luz: If a light sensor is connected, the module will play audio when exposed to light (e.g., opening a box). Bringing it to complete darkness and then exposing it to light will trigger playback.
   • Sensor magnético: If a magnetic sensor is connected, the module will play when the magnet is moved away from the sensor and stop when the magnet is brought close.
3. Axuste de volume: The module typically has a volume adjustment button or switch on the PCB. Pressing this button will cycle through different volume levels (e.g., 5 levels).

Descrición do vídeo: This video demonstrates the functionality of the MP3 Recordable Sound Chip Module. It shows how the module plays audio when activated by a button or sensor, and how the sound volume can be adjusted. The video highlights the module's use in models and crafts, emphasizing its versatility.

7 Solución de problemas

• Module Not Recognized by PC/MAC:
  • Ensure the module's ON/OFF switch is in the "ON" position before connecting to the computer.
  • Verify that you are using a data-transfer USB cable, not a charging-only cable.
  • Try connecting to a different USB port or another computer/MAC.
  • Double-check that all cable connections are firm and stable.
• Multiple Button Presses Required for Next Track (Mac Users):
  • This is often caused by hidden ".DS_Store" or "._*.mp3" files created by macOS.
  • Connect the module to your Mac. Open Terminal.
  • Navigate to the module's directory (e.g., cd /Volumes/NO\ NAME).
  • Use ls -a to list all files, including hidden ones.
  • Delete hidden MP3 files using a command like: find . -maxdepth 1 -type f -name '._*.mp3' -delete.
  • Safely eject the module.
• Sen son ou volume baixo:
  • Comprobe se o interruptor de encendido/apagado está na posición "ON".
  • Asegúrate de que as baterías estean inseridas correctamente e teñan a carga suficiente.
  • Adjust the volume using the dedicated volume button/switch on the PCB.
  • Verify that the speaker connection is secure.
  • Asegurar MP3 files are correctly formatted (MONO, 44.1kHz, 16-bit, 128 kbps).
• Unit Not Playing While Plugged into PC/MAC:
  • This is normal behavior. The module typically enters data transfer mode when connected to a computer and will not play audio.

8. Especificacións

9. Garantía e soporte

For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Talking Products website. Contact details for Talking Products Ltd are typically provided in the product packaging or user guide.