Dogtra ARC Handsfree 1-Dog System Only Owner’s Manual

Table of Contents

Owner’s Manual

ARCHANDSFREE1-DOG SYSTEM ONLY

ARC HANDSFREE1-DOG SYSTEM ONLYOwner’s ManualPlease read this manual thoroughly before operating the ARC HANDSFREE training e-collar.

IMPORTANT SAFETY AND PRODUCT INFORMATIONWARNINGPlease read all safety and product information below before using your Dogtra product. Failure to follow these safety instructions could result in injury to you, your dog, and others, or it could result in damage to your Dogtra product or other property.

PRODUCT SAFETYTraining MethodsDogtra products may be used with a variety of training methods. However, each dog may have a different reaction to training methods and to Dogtra products. Closely observe your dog when determining the right training method to use with your Dogtra product.

Aggressive DogsDo not use Dogtra products with aggressive dogs as such dogs may react adversely and cause injury to people or other dogs. Seek the assistance of a dog-training specialist or veterinarian when dealing with aggressive dogs.

ChildrenDogtra products are not toys. Adult supervision and close attention are necessary when Dogtra products are used by or near children.

PRODUCT DAMAGEElectrical ProductYour Dogtra product contains electrical components and batteries. Do not use or keep your product near heat or flammable sources. Such use or storage may damage your product and/or cause fire, explosion, injury, or property damage.

Medical Device InterferenceDogtra products contain electrical and magnetic components that emit low-level electromagnetic waves and radio frequencies. These electromagnetic waves or radio frequencies may interfere with pacemakers, defibrillators, or other medical devices. Consult your physician or medical device maker before using your medical device with a Dogtra product. If you think that your Dogtra product is interfering with your pacemaker, defibrillator, or another medical device, stop using the Dogtra product.

Inadvertent ActivationThe digital microprocessor offers thousands of unique codes to eliminate frequency match-up with other Dogtra e-collars. The Constant button will automatically shut down after being held down for 12 seconds or more as a safety feature.

UNAUTHORIZED USEYour Dogtra product should be used only in a humane manner to train and educate your dog. Dogtra products are not intended for use in any other manner nor are they intended for use with other animals or with humans.

BATTERYYour Dogtra product contains batteries. Take care when removing and installing batteries as your fingers may get caught. Dispose of batteries as provided by your local regulations. Do not disassemble, crush, heat, or otherwise alter the battery as it may cause fire, injury, or property damage.

AT A GLANCE

Optional AccessoriesAuto Charger The auto charger for the ARC HANDSFREE has an input of 12-volts to 24-volts and has an output of 10-volts 1500mAh.European chargerDogtra’s European chargers are designed for use with a 220 volt AC electrical outlet.

To purchase accessories, please visit www.dogtra.com or call customer service at (888) 811-9111.

MAIN FEATURES

Easy-to-use, ergonomically fitted transmitter
Rheostat dial allows for gradual adjustments in stimulation intensity with no jumps between levels (0-127)
HANDSFREE operation with a HANDSFREE Remote Controller
3/4-mile range
Medium output
2 different stimulation types – Nick & Constant
High-Performance Pager (HPP) vibration feature
2-hour rapid charge lithium polymer batteries
IPX9K waterproof certified transmitter and receiver
One-charging system charges transmitter and receiver at the same time
Easily visible blue LCD screen displays the exact level of stimulation that can be seen in the dark
A three-bar battery life indicator and LED colored indicator to show the remaining battery life
Enhanced contact points
For dogs as small as 15 pounds

OVERVIEW

ARC HANDSFREETransmitter

ARC HANDSFREEReceiver

ARC HANDSFREEHANDSFREE Remote Controller

UNDERSTANDING YOUR TRAINING SYSTEM

Turning the ARC HANDSFREE On/OffTo turn the transmitter on, hold down the blue button on the right side of the transmitter until the LCD screen illuminates. To turn the transmitter off, hold down the same blue button on the right side of the transmitter until the LCD screen shuts off. When the LCD screen displays “OFF” release the button.To turn on the receiver, place the red dot on the back of the transmitter to the red dot on the receiver. Hold the two red dots together for a moment until the LED light on the receiver comes on.To turn off the unit, repeat the same procedure holding the two red dots together momentarily. The LED light will turn red for a brief moment indicating that the receiver has now shut off.
Transmitter Button FunctionThe ARC HANDSFREE unit has four buttons on the handheld transmitter (one on the face of the transmitter, two on the left side, and one on the right side).Nick ButtonThe Nick button is located on top of the left side of the handheld transmitter. When the Nick button is pressed, the receiver emits a single pulse of electrical stimulation.Constant ButtonThe Constant button is located on the bottom of the left side of the handheld transmitter. Pressing the Constant button gives continuous stimulation as long as the button is pressed, for up to 12 seconds. If the button is not released after 12 seconds, the stimulation will automatically turn off as a safety feature. The receiver will be ready to be reactivated once the button has been released.Pager ButtonThe Pager button is located on the face of the transmitter. Pressing it will give a vibration for as long as the button is pressed, for up to 12 seconds.On/Off ButtonThe on/off button is located on the right side of the transmitter.
HANDSFREE InformationThe HANDSFREE Remote Controller gives you the freedom to multitask and have discreet fingertip control of the ARC HANDSFREE. The function (Nick, Constant, or Pager) can be coded to the HANDSFREE Remote Controller for you to operate remotely. You may press the HANDSFREE Remote Controller button instead of having to carry the transmitterin your hand.The HANDSFREE Remote Controller has been tested and can be used in extreme conditions, between -4°F to 140°F.RangeDepending on where the handheld transmitter is placed, your body can act as a barrier between the HANDSFREERemote Controller and the transmitter. The handheld transmitter’s antenna should be kept in the open for maximum range. Placing the transmitter in the bottom of a bag or in a cargo pocket where the antenna is covered may reduce the range between the transmitter and the receiver. The HANDSFREE Remote Controller will need to be within 33 feet of the transmitter to work.Battery LifeThe LED on the HANDSFREE Remote Controller will blink when the button is pressed. Replace the battery in the HANDSFREE Remote Controller when the LED no longer blinks. With normal usage (button held for 12 seconds, 100times a day), the battery should last 7-10 years.Fastening the HANDSFREE Remote Controller Strap The HANDSFREE Remote Controller strap can be fastened to your fingers, wrist, palm, or around a gunstock. Follow the fastening instructions below.
1. Wrap the strap around the object you are fastening the strap to. Pull the strap through the lower section of the buckle and use the notch to keep the HANDSFREERemote Controller securely in place.2. Loop the strap back through the top section of the buckle.Changing the HANDSFREE Remote Controller Simulation ModeThe default setting for the HANDSFREE Remote ControllerThe strap is the Constant stimulation.

To change the setting to the Pager or Nick stimulation (or back to Constant stimulation) proceed with the followingsteps:1. Begin with the transmitter turned off.2. On the handheld transmitter, hold down the following buttons to code the desired function on the HANDSFREERemote Controller.Constant = Hold down the on/off button and the ConstantPager = Hold down the on/off button and the PagerNick = Hold down the on/off button and the NickHold down these buttons until you see a rapidly blinking light on the transmitter.3. Once you see the rapidly blinking light, release the buttons.4. Hold down the HANDSFREE Remote Controller button until the rapidly flashing light on the transmitter and controller both show a solid light.5. Release all buttons. The HANDSFREE Remote Controller should now be coded.
Receiver FittingProper FitThe receiver should be fitted so that the medical-grade stainless steel contact points press firmly against the dog’s skin. You should be able to fit two fingers underneath the collar strap. The best location is on either side of the dog’s windpipe.Improper FitA loose fit can allow the receiver to move around on the dog’s neck. When this happens, the contact points may rub against the skin and cause irritation. If the receiver is too loose, the contact will not be consistent and cause the corrections to be inconsistent. Dogtra uses medical-grade stainless steel contact points and anti-microbial plastic to protect the dog’s skin.Attention!Leaving the receiver in the same location on the dog’s neck for an extended period of time can cause skin irritation due to the sensitivity from the contact points. If the dog is to wear the receiver for long periods, occasionally reposition the receiver every few hours so that the contact points are moved to a different location on the dog’s neck and remove the receiver after 8 hours of usage. Make sure you check for skin irritation each time you use the unit.
Finding the Right StimulationThe ARC HANDSFREE has a Rheostat Dial on the top of the transmitter (0 is the lowest and 127 is the highest). Remember that you will need to adjust the setting (upward or downward) depending on your dog’s temperament and threshold for stimulation. Always start at the lowest level and work your way up. The appropriate level can be found when the dog responds to the stimulation with a mild reaction. Also, as the dog’s attitude changes, especially during times of increased excitement or distraction, you may need to adjust the intensity level.Note: The stimulation intensity can be adjusted even when the stimulation is in use.
Maximizing the DistanceThe ARC HANDSFREE has a 3/4-mile range. Depending on the way you use your transmitter, the transmitter range mayvary.To get the greatest range, hold the transmitter away from your body and avoid touching the antenna. Keep your unit properly charged for maximum signal strength.NoticeAvoid touching the antenna or the range may decrease substantially. The range on the ARC HANDSFREE is reduced when the handheld transmitter’s antenna is covered or in contact with your body. Refer to the following carrying methods foroptimal range.
LED IndicatorThe LED indicator flashes every 4 seconds when the receiver is on and ready for use. The LED indicator will blink on both the transmitter and the receiver when the transmitter buttons are pressed.The LED indicator color indicates the battery life level.Green = Full chargeAmber = Medium chargeRed = Needs chargeIf the unit is used while the LED indicator is red, it may shut down automatically.Receiver Indicator LightWhen the Constant button on the transmitter is pressed, the receiver indicator light will glow steadily (either green, amber, or red based on the remaining battery life), as long as you hold the button down, for up to 12 seconds. When the Nick button is pressed, the light comes on for a fraction of a second.
Charging the BatteryThe Dogtra ARC HANDSFREE uses a lithium polymer battery. Recharge the unit if the indicator light is red or does not come on or the system will not stay on when any button is pressed.Note 1: Only use Dogtra-approved batteries, chargers, and accessories for your Dogtra e-collars. This will prevent any damage that can be incurred from attempting to use a different charger.Note 2: The unit has a partial charge when it leaves the Dogtra facility. Upon receipt of the system, be sure to give it a full 2- hour initial charge before the first use away from any flammable substances.Note 3: When a charger is not in use, disconnect it from the power source. Fully charge the batteries if the unit is to be stored without use for a period of 3 months or more.Follow the steps below to charge your system:1. Open the rubber plugs on the battery charging receptacles and plug in the charging cable.2. Plug the charger into a 120-volt wall outlet or, if using the auto charger, plug into a cigarette lighter only for lithium polymer batteries (use a 220-volt European charger for Europe). All indicator lights should glow red when properly plugged in and the unit will automatically shut off during the charging process. You will need to turn the unit on again before use once the unit is fully charged and unplugged from the battery cable.3. The lithium-polymer battery is fully charged within 2 hours. The lights will stay red during the charging process and turn green once the unit is fully charged.4. After charging, cover the battery charging receptacles with the rubber plugs.
Handheld Transmitter LCDThe LCD screen indicates the stimulation level on the screen ranging from (0-127). The battery life indicator shows:3 bars = full charge2 bars = medium charge1 bar = needs a chargeThe battery life indicator only shows the remaining charge of your transmitter. To find the remaining charge for yourreceiver, observe the LED indicator light on the receiver.

Care for LCD Transmitters in Cold Temperature In cold temperatures (10°F or below), the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) on your transmitter may be dim or slow to respond. Wait until the display becomes visible before selecting any training level. Even though the LCD screen might be dim or slow to respond when you press the Nick or Constant button, the transmitter will still function properly. In the occurrence of extremely cold weather, the LCD screen might take a moment to respond causing the intensity level to freeze at that current level.

If you turn the Rheostat Dial, the level on the screen may not change but the actual intensity from the receiver will change in agreement with the dial. In this situation, it is ideal to either wait until your transmitter is back in working order before emitting a correction or while holding the Constant button down slowly turn the Rheostat Dial while watching your dog’s reaction. Do not turn the Rheostat Dial rapidly, because the receiver will emit a static correction based on the level of the Rheostat Dial, which might not be correctly reflected on the LCD screen.
Attaching the Belt ClipFollow the instructions below to attach the included belt clip to the transmitter.1. Align the belt clip to the grooves on the back of the transmitter.2. With a firm grip, screw on the belt clip’s Phillips head screws with a screwdriver.CautionTighten until firmly in place. Be careful not to overtighten.
Using the Test Light1. To turn on the receiver, place the red dot on the back of the transmitter to the red dot on the receiver. Hold the two red dots together for a moment until the LED light on the receiver comes on. The indicator light will come on for a moment then blink once every 4 seconds, showing that the receiver is ready to use (the receiver needs to be charged if the indicator light is red).2. Turn the transmitter on by holding down the on/off button on the right side of the transmitter. The LED will blink every 4 seconds and the LCD screen will show the remaining battery life (the transmitter needs to be charged if there is only 1 bar showing on the battery icon for the LCD transmitter screen).3. Place the test light, included in the package contents, on the contact points as shown in the diagram.4. Watch the test light as you press the Nick button on the transmitter. It should light up for just a moment. The higher the intensity, the brighter the test light will be.5. Watch the test light as you press the Constant button on the transmitter. It should light up as long as the button is pressed. However, as a safety feature, the receiver will automatically stop the stimulation if the Constant button is pressed for 12 seconds or longer.6. Turn the Rheostat Dial on the transmitter clockwise and then counterclockwise. The test light should glow brighter with higher levels of stimulation and dimmer with lower levels.Note: The test light may not be visible if the intensity level is set below level ten.

GENERAL TRAINING TIPS

Your dog must know some basic obedience commands before beginning training with the ARC HANDSFREE. A dog learns by first being shown a command, followed by lots of repetition over an extended period. As the dog becomes proficient at these commands, the trainer can introduce distractions and different locations to strengthen them.

Obedience Training on the LeashYour dog must fully understand the obedience commands (sit, stay, here, heel, and kennel) before using the e-collar for enforcement of these commands. A leash attached to a standard collar is used to “teach” the dog the basic obedience commands (here, heel, sit, and stay). A tug on the leash/collar is used to reinforce the command. When the dog complies with the command, use positive reinforcement/praise. Once the dog understands these commands, the e-collar can be used to reinforce them.

Beginning E-Collar TrainingWhen you feel your dog understands the obedience commands on the leash we can now start with the e-collar training. With the dog on the leash and wearing the e-collar, continue with your obedience drills. Apply light stimulation (Nick or Constant) when a command is given; the stimulation can be removed as the dog complies. Through repetition, the dog learns to perform the command. The final step is the avoidance phase in which the dog learns that he can avoid the stimulation altogether by performing your commands. When these training procedures are complete, the e-collar is used as a reminder when the dog does not comply with your commands at home or in the field. Keep your initial training sessions short and positive as dogs have a short attention span.

How Much Stimulation to UseAlways start with low levels of stimulation and work your way up depending on the disposition of your dog and the given situation. By using the correct amount of stimulation to get your point across, you will have a more controllable environment and a dog that is under less stress. Animals (and humans) perform better in a less stressful environment.

For more training information, please visit our website atwww.dogtra.com

MAINTENANCE

Basic MaintenanceMake sure the rubber charging cap is securely in place when the system is in use. After each training session, carefully inspect the unit for any missing parts or damage to the casing. The damaged or broken casing may affect the waterproof guarantee on the unit. After confirming that there is no damage to the casing, rinse the receiver and clean out any dirt or debris.

Storage MaintenanceThe ARC HANDSFREE should be fully charged before storing for extended periods. While in storage, the unit should be given a full charge once a month and before the first use. Store the units at room temperature. Do not keep the units exposed to extreme climates.

TroubleshootingIf the unit is malfunctioning, please refer to the “Troubleshooting Guide” before sending it to Dogtra for service. If you have any questions or concerns, you may email them to [email protected], or call customer service at (888) 811-9111.

FCC WARNING

The ARC HANDSFREE complies with part 15 of the FCCRules. 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 is a sensitive radio device. Any unauthorized changes or modifications to this device that are not expressly approved by Dogtra will void the warranty and may void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. Please do not tamper or modify the unit.

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

My dog is not reacting to the system.– Make sure the receiver and transmitter are turned on.– Make sure the collar strap is tight enough so both contact points are touching the dog’s skin.– The contact points may be too short for the dog. To place an order for longer contact points that are more appropriate for your dog, please call (888) 811- 9111.If you are already using the longest contact points available, you might need to trim down the hair on the dog’s neck so both contact points are touching the dog’s skin.– The intensity level may be too low for your dog. Keep increasing the stimulation until the dog responds, usually with neck movement, head shaking, looking over its shoulder, etc. (response may be very subtle).
The test light comes on, but I do not feel any stimulation.– Testing the system at various levels using the test light is the best way to test your system. Your tolerance was maybehigher than the level you are testing yourself.– The battery may be low, so check the LED light for battery life.
The transmitter has no range or stimulation is less when the dog is farther away.– The antenna(s) may be damaged. To order parts, please contact customer service at (888) 811-9111 or go to www.dogtra.com.– The range indicated on the unit’s box is for flat terrain. Heavy brush, trees, hills, or moisture will affect the range of your unit. For best range, hold the transmitter vertically above your head, and/or try moving to higher ground.– Any electrical conductors will affect the range, such as cars, chain-link dog runs, metal structures, and radio towers. For best results, operate away from these items.4. My unit is not holding a charge.– The batteries might not be charged properly, or the charger, splitter, and the charging port may not be functioning properly. You can send in your charging units to have us inspect them.– The charging pin may be damaged. Inside the charging port, there is a metal pin that should be standing straight up and stiff. If the pin is wobbling, broken, or missing, you will need to send the unit to the RepairDepartment. The charging port must be clean prior to charging; clean the dirt out with a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol. If the dog is in salt water, be sure to rinse the receiver and charging port with clean water.– If the above does not resolve your issues, contact Dogtra customer service at [email protected] or (888) 811-9111.

DOGTRA PRODUCT WARRANTY

LIMITED WARRANTYFor Dogtra Products Purchased from Dogtra Authorized DealersOne-Year WarrantyExcept as otherwise provided below, Dogtra warrants to the original retail purchaser (“You”) that its Dogtra products shall be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of purchase (“Warranty”). The Warranty covers the cost of repair (parts and labor) or replacement (if repair is not feasible) of a defective Dogtra product during a said one-year period. For such repaired or replaced products, the remaining portion of the original warranty period, or ninety (90) days, whichever is longer, shall apply. Dogtra, at its sole discretion, shall determine whether to repair or replace a product covered by the Warranty.

Warranty ConditionsThe Warranty is not transferrable and applies to your Dogtra product only if:(1) You are the original retail purchaser of the product,(2) You bought the product from a Dogtra authorized dealer, and(3) You present a receipt or other proof of purchase showing a valid purchase date, the name and address of the authorized dealer, and the purchased product identified by model and/or serial number.

Warranty ExclusionsThe Warranty does not cover damage, loss, or deterioration to your Dogtra the product caused: by misuse, neglect, abuse, or another improper handling of the product; by failure to follow use or care instructions; by use of the product for other than its intended purpose; by accident or natural forces such as fire or flooding; or by normal wear and tear such as scratches to the product surface.

The Warranty also does not cover Dogtra products that: are purchased from non-authorized dealers; are purchased outside of the United States or Canada; have been damaged during shipment (even if Dogtra paid or arranged for shipping); have been modified or tampered with in any manner; are opened or repaired by anyone other than Dogtra or have serial numbers that have been altered or defaced.

Sole WarrantyThis Warranty is the only warranty offered by Dogtra for its Dogtra products. Other than said Warranty, Dogtra makes no other representations or warranties whatsoever regarding its products, whether oral or in any product manual, on any packaging, on any website, or in any other written material. No dealer of Dogtra products, nor any employee or agent of Dogtra, is authorized to make any additions, changes, or extensions to the Warranty. Dogtra, at its sole discretion and at any time, reserves the right to modify the Warranty.

DISCLAIMER OF OTHER WARRANTIESTHE FOREGOING WARRANTY IS PROVIDED IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, WHETHER XPRESS OR IMPLIED. dogtra DISCLAIMS ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULARPURPOSE.Limitation of RemediesDogtra’s liability is limited to the cost of repair or replacement of the Dogtra product under Warranty. Any claim or action to enforce the Warranty must be commenced within thirty (30) days of the Warranty’s expiration for your product. Dogtra will not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or similar damages based on breach of warranty, breach of contract, negligence, strict tort, or any other legal theory relating to Dogtra and its products. Damages that Dogtra will not be responsible for include, but are not limited to: loss of income or profits; loss of revenue or savings; loss of use of the product or associated products; cost of any substitute products or services; inconvenience, downtime, or any other time; loss of goodwill; claims of third parties including customers; and damage to property.

Legal Rights May Vary By State or JurisdictionThe Warranty gives You specific legal rights, and You may also have other rights which vary by state or jurisdiction. Some states or jurisdictions do not allow certain limitations of implied warranties or of incidental or consequential damages or other remedies, so certain of the foregoing limitations may not apply to You.

If any portion of the Warranty is held by a court to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining portions of the Warranty shall remain in full force and effect and shall in no way be affected or invalidated, and the invalid or unenforceable portion shall be modified so as to most nearly achieve the intent of the Warranty.

Product RegistrationDogtra recommends that customers register their products as soon as possible after purchase. Product registration will facilitate any future warranty service. You may also receive useful information and updates about your existing and future Dogtra roducts. To register your product, visit www.dogtra.com/product-registration. If your product is not registered with Dogtra, You will be required to provide a receipt or other proof of purchase (as provided above) to qualify for warranty service.

How to Obtain Warranty ServiceShould your Dogtra product require warranty service, please contact Customer Service by phone or email for a warranty evaluation (see below for contact information). Upon approval of your warranty work, Dogtra will repair or replace (at Dogtra’s election) your product without charge for labor or parts. You are responsible for shipping, including the cost, of your product to Dogtra for warranty service. Dogtra will handle shipping, including the cost, of the repaired or replaced product back to customers in the USA. Dogtra will not be responsible for shipping, including cost and/or applicable taxes or fees, for products sent to Canada. Such costs, taxes, or fees will be borne by the customer.

To register your product, visit www.dogtra.com/product-registration.

References

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Posted

2023-01-23

Dogtra

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Tags:

1-DOG SYSTEM ONLY, ARC, Dogtra, Handsfree