• AKE Stealth Bluetooth helmet set - Possible malfunctions and their causes
• Problems while connecting various Bluetooth systems
• Problems while electrically connecting various devices
• Possible interferences during a Bluetooth connection
• AKE PowerCom - Possible malfunctions and their cause
• AKE PowerCom - Use with radio, CD-player or MP3
• AKE PowerCom - Use with navigation systems
• AKE PowerCom - Use as two-way-radio and mobile phone hands-free-kit
• AKE PowerCom - Use with smartphones or other combined audio-mobile navigation systems
• AKE PowerCom - Use with voice recorder or camcorder
• AKE PowerCom - Communication and entertainment in the sidecar
• AKE PowerCom - What is important to know about Bluetooth to the helmet
• AKE PowerCom - Tips for vehicle interferences and other noise
• AKE PowerCom - Tips for optimal usage
• Suitability of helmets and helmet sets for communication and entertainment

What is the difference between the loudspeakers HighVoice and HighSound at the helmet set?

The Loudspeakers HighVoice are optimized for voice transmission for motorbikes The Loudspeakers HighSound supply also base sound and their sound characteristic is better suitable for listening to music in helmets. But the mounting is more complicated than with the HighVoice system.

My friend has super base sound in his helmet, how can I have that too (we both have the HighSound speakers)?

Every helmet-type has a different sound characteristic. For the best bass sound it is important, that the speakers sit as near as possible to the earholes, but with some helmets that is not possible.

You can try to extend the distance between the front and rear sound openings by placing the loudspeaker in a plastic plate and cutting and straightening it so that it still fits into the helmet. For the acoustics-freaks: It is important, that at least close to the loudspeaker for the basses an acoustic short circuit should be avoided.

Does the Moisture of long rides in the rain cause damage?

All PowerCom Helmet Sets are moisture resistant.

Does the PowerCom-Device also work with Helmet Sets of other manufacturers?

PowerCom-Devices from series 04 (from serial-# 12128) and up can be changed for use of standard helmsets with electret microphones.
However, the power-on automatic and the automatic blocking of the microphone when driving solo (use with only one helmet) are turned off, that means the Device must be turned on by the ignition or a switch and the helmet microphone also stays active, when it is actually not needed (no blocking of the microphone when driving solo). The same applies here, the microphone should be a version with noise reduction.

Can i use the PowerCom-Device or the Bluetooth-Helmet sets also with open helmets?

Yes, jet helmets can be used with the PBM1 on PowerCom-Devices. But please heed, that, at high driving speeds, an unprotected microphone is extremely loaded by wind noise. For a good speech quality jet helmets with boom-mike should only be used on motorbikes with big windshield and at moderate driving speed.

Does the Helmet Set fit into every Helmet?

Our Helmet Sets are neutral, that means built independent of the helmet type. But high quality helmet microphones and helmet loudspeakers also require some space. Your helmet should have about 2cm space in front of your mouth  and 1 cm in the area of the ears behind the foam padding. It gets difficult with helmets  that have the separation between the upper and the lower helmet upholstery exactly in the area of the ears but such helmets are rather rare these days. When having problems with too less space, in case of need the upholstery can be cut out a bit

Some types of helmets have a ventilation hole just before the mouth. However, this is not usually tragic because the open-pore windscreen foam of the helmet microphone is air-permeable. If the ventilation hole can be closed, you should place the slider in the optimum position before installing the microphone.

With a Flip-Up-Helmet you need an elastic cable connection to the helmet microphone (is included with our helmet sets for Flip-Up-Helmets). Alternatively also a Boom-Mike can be used, in case e.g. the helmet has  too little space above for the microphone when the front part of the helmet is folded up. The advantage of the firmly installed microphone is, that it does not move when putting on the helmet and so does not have to be positioned new every time.

Cheap navigation system-Solution for the motorbike

An interesting and cost-effective solution is the use of the mobile phone with a navigation-app. The voice-message from the mobile phone is sent via Bluetooth to the helmet. However, with some mobile phones the navigation through the Bluetooth connection is blocked.

My navigation system does not transfer any voice to the mobile phone (mobile phone is connected to the navigation system):

For navigation system - mobile phone combinations, don't connect the Bluetooth-module to connector "N" but to "H" or, if available "U" respectively "S". Therefore the universal PowerCom Bluetooth Accessory Adapter PB-AA D&S is needed.

My navigation system transmits voice only choppy (mobile phone is connected to the navigation system):

While making a phone call with the Zumo 660 it is needed, that only one person talks at a time, because the signal output path of the Zumo gets muted, as soon as the conversation partner speaks. In addition, no background noise may be present with the call partner because also with these the outgoing signal path is muted.

Unfortunately, this problem occurs if the Zumo 660's microphone signal cable connector (2.5mm jack connector) is used.
This problem does not occur if the Bluetooth headset connection is used with the Zumo 660 instead. That means use PowerCom-Device with Bluetooth-Adapter PB-AA D&S.

My navigation system can not be paired with an AKE Bluetooth Helmet Set or AKE PowerCom Bluetooth Accessory Adapter:

TomTom Rider

1. The "Handsfree" function must be switched off if the TomTom Rider is to be paired with an AKE Bluetooth Helmet Set or AKE Bluetooth Accessory Adapter. (Main Menu, change Settings, Bluetooth Settings, activate BT, hands-free call to "off", then Main Menu, change Settings, Bluetooth connections, headset, connect to headset, pair, when OK. Then turn on hands-free call again, menu structure can be different)

2. Tom Tom Rider finds the Bluetooth helmet set respectively the Bluetooth Accessory Adapter, but refuses to make the connection (Messages: Device … found, Connection not possible, etc.): In this case, the TomTom Rider needs to be reset.

Tom Tom Rider 2: On the bottom side, besides the card slot is a small hole in which a bent office clip fits. Underneath is a micro-switch, with which the reset can be triggered (Reset the software to factory defaults doesn't help).

TomTom Urban Rider / Rider Pro: Go to Menu, reset Data, 2 x Yes, then press the on/off-button for 1 minute depending on the device act as follows: Turn off, then press the on/off-button and hold for at least 25 seconds (the technical data will be shown), then turn on again.

If after the reset the Tom Tom Rider still doesn't recognizes the headset, etc. or refuses to establish the connection the Reset has not deleted the (wrong) Bluetooth-settings.

3. With some older TomTom riders, the function to pair other Bluetooth helmet sets is hidden, here you must proceed as follows: Switch on the navigation system, select the screen with the main menu, then the "Change settings", 2 x "Right" button, "Connect to headset" button.

On the screen, "Connect to TomTom headset?" should be shown. Please press "no" here! Now ignore the "Turn on your TomTom headset" command and instead: Turn on the AKE Bluetooth-helmet set or turn on the PowerCom device with Bluetooth-module PB-AA D&S in and put near it. When the Bluetooth-device was found, it will be shown on the screen.

For use with Tom Tom Rider 2 AKE Stealth Bluetooth helmetsets 201 or Accessory Adapter use firmware 1.2 or higher - Use the firmware update service (partly free of charge for AKE customers).

Garmin Zumo 660

Bluetooth helmet set respectively Accessory Adapter is recognized while pairing, but rejected afterwards while connecting. If this effect occurs repeatedly, incompletely deleted entries are present in the Zumo menu under Bluetooth, audio. Activate all entries (also empty ones) and delete them, then switch the Zumo completely off and on again and pair the Bluetooth helmet set.

Garmin Zumo 550: only the connection to the mobile phone works, Bluetooth helmet set respectively Accessory Adapter cannot be connected.

Two possibilities:

A. At the Bluetooth-helmet set 101 detach the battery for a reset, turn on and connect, possibly the multi-function-button on the Bluetooth helmet set has to be pressed again to activate the connection.

B. At the Zumo remove all Bluetooth-connections and reset it to factory defaults, then first pair the Zumo with the Bluetooth-helmet set respectively Accessory Adapter and as the last pair the Zumo with the mobile phone.

Garmin Zumo 550: Speech to helmet doesn't work, though Bluetooth helmet set respectively Bluetooth Accessory Adapter (and mobile phone) are paired with the Zumo.

The individual connections still have to be activated after pairing. To do this, at the Zumo select "Audio" in the Bluetooth menu at the bottom, then activate the desired entries in the submenu (MP3, navigation system, Phone etc.), then the connection should work.

If it still does not work, pair the Zumo new with the Bluetooth helmet set respectively PowerCom Bluetooth Accessory Adapter.

Turn on and off Zumo and helmet set in the right order: 1. Turn helmet set on and put helmet on, 2. sit on the motorbike and turn it on (together with the navigation system), 3. drive, 4. turn of motorbike (together with the navigation system) Get off the motorbike, 5. remove the helmet and turn off the helmet set.

When using in combination with mobile phone at the Zumo (pair helmet set first!) the effect does not occur.

Garmin Zumo 550 with Bluetooth to mobile phone at Bluetooth helmet set or PowerCom Accessory Adapter: Speech doesn't reach the other mobile phone.

Only with PowerCom systems with Bluetooth Accessory Adapter:

PowerCom Bluetooth Accessory Adapter and Bluetooth helmet set:

Mobile phone connected directly over navigation system - Voice arrives incomprehensibly respectively overdriven at the conversation partner while driving.

Especially with the Garmin Zumo 550 in combination with mobile phone the outgoing voice very easy gets overdriven - With the AKE Stealth Bluetooth helmet sets 201 with Firmware 1.2b and higher the signal-transmission got newly adjusted - Use the firmware update service (partly free of charge for AKE customers).

Garmin Zumo 660 respectively BMW Navigator IV with MP3 over Bluetooth (A2DP) to the headset - The GPS-voice doesn't get  turned on again.

Firmware-problem with the Navigator, voice gets muted with switching to A2DP (music- transmission) and has to be turned on again by switching back to HSP/HFP over the menu by hand.

With the Garmin Zumo 660 with firmware 3.30 and higher and the AKE Stealth Bluetooth helmet sets 201 with Firmware 1.2b and higher the effect doesn't occur anymore - Use the firmware update service (partly free of charge for AKE customers).

Garmin Zumo 660 respectively. BMW Navigator IV, switch-on-crack when GPS-voice comes

Cannot be suppressed, Garmin says, they will turn it off in the future - With Garmin Zumo 660 with Firmware 3.30 and higher and AKE Stealth Bluetooth helmet sets 201 with Firmware 1.2c and higher the effect doesn't occur anymore - Use the firmware update service (partly free of charge for AKE customers).

Garmin Zumo 660 MP3-Audio stutters.

Can occur with the Zumo 660 (but especially with the BMW Navigator IV) paired with newer headsets or with the newer PowerCom Bluetooth-Acessory-Adapter at the A2DP-connection directly after pairing. It looks like the hardware-resources of the navigation system are utilized too much. Should be gone after the first turning off and on again (or after deactivating the BT HS in the menu and activating it again).

BMW Navigator IV, no A2DP respectively no MP3-Audio

Error message at the start of the MP3-player: "Cannot establish an A2DP-connection with the HS". Cause: When the Navigator is in the original BMW-holder, then already an A2DP-connection gets established for the voice of the GPS (possibly a change desired from BMW). If the Navigator then wants to establish an A2DP-connection for the MP3-player, it is already occupied.

When using it without BMW-holder the A2DP-connection to the Bluetooth-HS gets established without problems, stutter respectively intermittations with the music-transmission are likely to occur, see also "Garmin Zumo 660 MP3-Audio stutters".

Why not go back to the good old cable-connection? When using at a AKE PowerCom motorbike-entertainment-system the cable-connection is not a disadvantage and the (Bluetooth-) helmets are then connected with the control center. By the way, the audio-cable-connection is internally present in the holder, but not led to the outside. It seems like BMW doesn't want that cable-connected helmet sets or motorbike intercoms can be connected.

BMW Navigator IV, bad sound

Is possible with older software, set the volume of the navigation system to 10% (!) or install newer Software with Rel. 4.90 or newer, Vol. Master 100%, navigation system 90%, media 90%. Then the sound is clean.

Mobile phone Sony/Ericsson, no ringtone

With different mobile phones with "polyphonic" ringtones the ringtone is not transmitted to the Bluetooth-headset - All Stealth Bluetooth helmet sets 201 and Bluetooth Accessory Adapters with Firmware 1.2c and newer create an own ringtone for these mobile phones - Use the firmware update service (partly free of charge for AKE customers).

Mobile phone over Garmin Zumo 660 respectively BMW Navigator IV, mobile phone volume cannot be adjusted

Message at the mobile phone "No volume adjustment with this accessory", Pair PowerCom-Bluetooth Accessory Adapter or Bluetooth-helmet set directly with mobile phone, set the desired volume, then connect the mobile phone again over the Zumo, the volume that was set that way is retained even after switching off.

Making a phone call with a mobile phone over the Garmin Zumo 660, voice with intermittations / no voice from the motorbike to the  telephone conversation partner

With wavering background noise from the conversation partner (e.g. an other person speaks in the background) it hears a telephone call with intermittations.
With stronger background noise from the conversation partner (e.g. loud music in the background) it doesn't hear nothing anymore from the motorbike driver.

example 1: conversation partner A on the motorcycle with Zumo, conversation partner B without background noise - B hears A only when B doesn't talk (no full duplex)
example 2: conversation partner A on the motorcycle with Zumo, conversation partner B with background noise - B hears A only when B doesn't talk and the background noise is silent enough.

When using the mobile phone direct, that is without den detour over the navigation system, this effect doesn't occur.

Basics of Multipoint operation

This new operating mode developed by CSR (maker of Bluetooth chips) makes it possible to connect two or more masters with one slave, unlike before, were only one or mere slaves could be connected to one master. By that it is now possible to connect two mobile phones or a mobile phone and a navigation system with a Bluetooth-helmet set. However, for that, it must be negotiated which device should have the higher priority, usually the navigation system or the mobile phone. Unfortunately, the necessary functions are not yet always implemented correctly by all vendors. But the compatibility problems arising through that will according to experience will be getting better in the future.

However, it is not possible to hear both master devices at the same time, so e.g. the intercom connection is suspended while the navigation system speaks. if You want to hear two or more signals at a time, we recommend the use of one of our PowerCom-entertainment-systems.

Bluetooth Interkom-Set 200 & TomTom Rider II / Urban / Pro:

When the speech turns on delayed: Delay no longer occurs with the up-to-date software.

At Multipoint operation heed the order of turning on the devices! First thing after pairing, turn all devices off. Then turn on in the following order: 1. Bluetooth helmet set 201 and 2. navigation system - wait for connection, only then (always as the last one) turn on the Bluetooth helmet set 201i, the navigation system should not speak at that moment. When Multipoint doesn't work pair everything new!

At the TomTom Rider 2 / Urban about v 9.205 or higher at Multipoint operation, after the 2. or 3. time that the devices speaks, the devices stay silent. This bug can be fixed by a software patch if wanted.

Bluetooth Interkom-Set 200 & Garmin Zumo 210 / 660:
Complicated operation needed to activate Multipoint operation (only needed in combination with Interkom).

First both master devices (e.g. navigation system and helmet set 201i) have to be paired with the Bluetooth helmet set 201 (therefore, pair every device separately and turn off again). For the Multipoint operation with the Zumo 210 / 660 always turn the Bluetooth helmet set 201i as the last one (!) than change the navigation system priority at the  Zumo-Menü as follows: Menu, Bluetooth, change Audio, deselect, disconnect, Yes, OK, change audio, choose StealthHS201 and OK (the menu structure can be different).

(If the message "BT-visibility ..."(can look different) comes, then cancel. It is finished after the message: „Bluetooth device connected and ready to use" (can look different). Unfortunately the devices "forget" this setting after turning of or loss of the connection (tested until Zumo 660 v 4.0).

With the Zumo 660 at Multipoint operation from time to time the Bluetooth-connection gets lost, that problem is not known with the Zumo 210 i.

Garmin Zumo 210 can be paired, but doesn't transmit audio signal to the  Stealth Bluetooth helmet set NG.

With the Stealth BT-HS 201 this problem doesn't occur anymore.

Stealth Bluetooth helmet set NG - with the turning on and off of the intercom connection the navigation system / mobile phone changes the intercom partner

This can happen at an intercom connection, when both Stealth Bluetooth helmet set NG are paired wit the same navigation system / mobile phone!

With the Stealth Bluetooth helmet set NG, which shall not connect with this navigation system / mobile phone, delete the PDL (paired device list) and afterwards pair with any other master. You have to act as follows:

1. Delete PDL: Turn off Stealth Bluetooth helmet set NG, press and hold the power-button until alternate blinking, then press the power button 2 times short. Now switch off the Stealth Bluetooth helmet set NG again.
2. Overwrite memory: Pair this Stealth Bluetooth helmet set NG with any other master device.

Exceptions: With some Smartphones this way of usage is possible. E.g. with the iPhone 5 the iPhone-Menu can be used to choose, with witch of the both HS it shall be paired.

Question:

I have interferences (e.g. from turn signal, brake lights, high beams and generator) when i use the Helmet Connector. That is why i want to use the PowerStabilizer to reduce them. How shall i connect it? At the cable, that gets plugged into the power connector of the Helmet Connector, there is only one red cable for plus but none for ground (minus).

Answer:

The ground for the Helmet Connector normally comes over its helmet connection (DIN connector) and not over the power cable, so interferences are reduced. That is why the power cable, that comes with it, has no ground but only a plus connection.

You can order a 2 pole power connection cable from us that you can plug into the power connector of the Helmet Connector. Connect the cable to the output of the PowerStabilizer, red to red and black to black.

Interferences during Bluetooth-Connections:

Bluetooth devices transmit as Short Range Devices in a license-free ISM-Band (Industrial, Scientific and Medical Band) between 2,402 GHz and 2,480 GHz. They are allowed to be used worldwide without permit.

Interferences can have different causes:

A) other (stronger) transmitters, especially WLAN,
B) broadband interference sources,
C) range too short, respectively Interferences
D) EMV-Interferences

Interferences (A) can for example be caused  by WLANs, wireless phones or microwave ovens, that work in the same frequency band, also Bluetooth-devices with inadmissible increased power can disturb the signals of the connection. Especially stronger  WLAN-Accesspoints can considerable interfere  with the  Bluetooth-connections and cause link-loss.

Interferences (B) can for example be caused by vehicle electronics, High voltage cables or Industrial complexes,

Interferences (C) can for example be caused by wrong arrangement of the Bluetooth-components / Antennas,

Interferences (D) can for example couple in by mobile phones, two-way-radios, etc. if they transmit in close range.

1. Reduce the distance of the connected Bluetooth-devices of one connection.
2. Increase the distance to Bluetooth-device of an other connection or avoid using more than one Bluetooth-connections on the motorcycle.
3. Reduce the volume as far as possible.
4. Use mobile phones or two-way-radios, etc. that transmit not in close proximity of the  Bluetooth-device.

When i drive alone, i want to test if the helmet microphone turns on properly?

The PowerCom devices recognize, if only one helmet is connected and then disable the intercom-voice connection. If You have a device with two-way-radio and / or mobile phone - hands-free equipment, You can establish  a two-way-radio- or mobile phone connection  to test the helmet microphone. A bridge between Pin1 and Pin2 of the second helm close coupling can also be used in case of need.

The loudspeaker signal turns of again and again for a short time when driving fast, but it works normal again when driving slow, i use earplugs?

The power amplifiers of the PowerCom devices turn off automatically when the permissible output power is exceeded. You probably exceed the permissible volume when driving fast. This protection circuit prevents the speakers and, of course, your ears from being damaged. Do not use any tightly sealed ear plugs.

If you really need earplugs, we can only recommend you to mount the helmet loudspeakers as precisely and as close as possible to the ears. Use as little padding as possible between ear and speakers and a resiliently elastic foam between the back of the loudspeaker and the helmet lining, so that the helmet speakers are softly pressed against the ears.

Motor speed dependent background noise, low at audio, stronger with two-way-radio?

These can occur when the aluminium housing of the PowerCom device gets connected to the vehicle chassis, Use an insulating mounting material, such as hook-and-loop tape etc. More information about (background) noise can be found at Download.

The music in my helmet is only in mono and switches off at higher speed, with my co-driver everything works perfectly and in super stereo?

Driver-Audio-Security is activated in your device. This is the driver's audio safety function, to distract the driver less from driving. Refer to the operating instructions for how to turn this function on or off. Observe the regulations of the traffic regulations!

Since I also use navigation system, the audio signal (music, etc.) is quiet again and again, although the helmet microphone doesn't turn on?

To suppress noise in the pauses between speaking the PowerCom devices transmits signals on the navigation system input only from a certain volume on. If, however, a noise signal at the navigation system output exceeds this response threshold, this is mistakenly recognized as a navigation system signal, and the audio signal gets turned low.

If Your navigation system has its own volume control, You should turn it off! Use the navigation system adapter HM or HS (with level reduction for high level outputs). Use the AKE Power-Stabilizer (For PowerCom: Order No. 73092 or Universal: Order No. 73104) for interference suppression.

When having the VOX on i have to talk louder to activate the microphone?

That is right that way, at PowerCom devices with two-way-radio hands-free-kit, with the transmission-automatic turned on,  the turn-on-threshold of  the microphone  when not driving is set a bit higher. That avoids, that when getting on the bike and  and starting to drive even every noise in the surrounding turns the transceiver on the two-way-radio on.

My friend has super base sound in his helmet, how can I have that too (we both have the HighSound speakers)?

Every helmet-type has a different sound characteristic. For the best bass sound it is important, that the speakers sit as near as possible to the ear holes, but with some helmets that is not possible. You can try to extend the distance between the front and rear sound openings by placing the loudspeaker in a plastic plate and cutting and straightening it so that it still fits into the helmet. For the acoustics-freaks: It is important, that at least close to the loudspeaker for the basses an acoustic short circuit should be avoided.

Can the device fail when driving longer in the rain?

The helmet-connectors of the PowerCom devices are largely protected, if, nevertheless water penetrates the system can fail. All devices with common connection for microphone and loudspeaker in one socket, can fail by strong wetness. The electronics of the PowerCom devices is made for such cases and therefore it is enough, to strongly shake or blow dry the jacks and connectors, to make it function again.

Maintain all electrical contacts with WET.protect spray, with this, shorts by water are safely avoided.

When connecting to steady plus, is it possible that the battery discharges?

The PowerCom system switches off automatically when the helmet connectors are unplugged blue cable at the power plug (not permissible when using Bluetooth to helmet). If this power-off switch is used, however, when parking the motorbike, it must be observed, that:

else the automatic power-off can not work, and it is possible that the battery discharges. When not using the bike for a longer time e.g. over winter, we recommend disconnecting the electronic device from the battery.

As an alternative, the PowerCom system can also be supplied with 12V via ignition (terminal 15), discharging of the vehicle battery is then basically ruled out.

When using Bluetooth to the helmet, the automatic power-off must be disabled.

The co-driver hears the music only on one loudspeaker, but the driver over both, intercom at both helmets on both loudspeakers?

microphone-lock / intercom-lock

At all PowerCom versions the intercom-function is disabled at solo-use, that is when only one helmet is connected. This prevents unwanted switching on of the helmet microphone, e.g. when singing along, etc.
However, keep in mind, that when the two-way-radio-VOX is turned on and, if existing, at mobile phone - activity, the helmet-microphone is needed for the voice-connection and therefore in these cases is also turned on at solo-use.

When using combined mobile phone / audio-devices on the Smart-connector (U) over cable it is not possible to distinguish between incoming voice and other signals, like music, etc. That's why the helmet-microphone is turned on principle on in this case, when a signal comes in. If You use the audio- or navigation system input for music signals then  microphone stays blocked at solo use.

The Smart-connection is optimized for the Bluetooth-Acessory-Adapter. With it, the operating mode of the device connected via Bluetooth, music (stereo) or voice (duplex) can be passed on to the PowerCom device. That has the following advances, when using solo use: Automatic stereo to the helmet for optimal music transmission and automatic duplex to the helmet at telephone operation.

Suppression of the microphone lock for test purposes:
Connect two helmet-sets or turn on VOX (at the remote control device or with an iVOX-Activator)

Is listening to radio allowed on the bike?

When the security-function is activated, all PowerCom-systems with audio input, generate a signal for the driver, that is the same on the left and the right speaker and that's volume is depending on the driving noise. Furthermore, the audio signal is completely switched off for the driver at a higher driving speed. That makes sure that the driver is still able to hear acoustic signals from outside, See legal regulations on traffic safety

Which radios can be connected to the PowerCom-system?

To the PowerCom-system with radio-automatic all audio-devices like car-radio, CD-player, MP3-Player etc. can be connected. The signals from headphone outputs are additionally amplified in order to achieve the same volume for all devices.

Can I also use external speakers for my car-radio?

We also supply loudspeaker-branch connections with a switch, with that You can additionally switch on Your external speakers. The volume regulation that is dependent on the driving noise, however, only has an effect  on the radio signal transmitted to Your helmets. When the driving speed gets higher You virtually don't hear the external speakers anymore.

I would like to connect a navigation system, what do You recommend?

You can use any navigation system with speech output. A displaying of the map is not necessarily required. If radio- and navigation system are separate, the volume of the audiosignal will automatically be lowered when the navigation system speaks.

Insider Tip - Cheap navigation system solution for the motorbike

An interesting and cost-effective yet high-quality solution is the navigation system voice message from a suitable mobile phone over Bluetooth to the central PowerCom-Entertainment-System and from there, volume controlled, to the helmet.

I want to connect my mobile phone with the navigation system and also use MP3 in stereo over the navigation system.

All PowerCom-systems with connection for navigation system and mobile phone (Innova and On Tour) that are series 04 and higher, are also suitable for navigation system, audio-stereo and combined mobile phone devices. All you need is a matching combi adapter, Art-No.: 33440 (can be used starting with PowerCom Plus or higher).

If I connect my navigation system to my mobile phone, my own voice will not be transferred during the phone call.

You probably connected the navigation system to the PowerCom system using the [N] port. The user's own voice can only be transferred via the PowerCom connectors [F] or [H]! You need a different connection cable.

Why are there so often problems with the mobile phone voice volume with the navigation system.

This is not actually our task to answer that, but as we are often asked about that, here is the answer again: Most of the  two-way-radio and mobile phones allow deviations regarding the sensitivity of connected microphones. This unfortunately is different for common navigation systems, in the electronics for the microphone inputs, every cent is saved. The result is sufficiently known.

If Your microphone die overdrives the voice, You may also want to use a less sensitive microphone or insert an attenuator.

Chopped signal transmission when making a phone call over Zumo 660 (when my call partner interrupts me, my voice is muted).

In order to avoid feedback, the Zumo 660 automatically mutes the outgoing microphone signal as soon as a signal arrives from the call partner. This really makes sense only if an amplifier plus loudspeaker is connected, when using headphones or motorcycle intercom, the feedback is not a problem. However, as far as we know, this function can not be switched off or bypassed at the Zumo 660.

So one should not interfere. Alternatively, you can operate your mobile phone directly at the PowerCom system using the AKE Bluetooth Accessory Adapter PB-AA D & S. Then the problem does not occur.

Can i also use other two-way-radio devices on the PowerCom-system?

There are a multitude of different CB-, LPD-, PMR-, amateur- and commercial  two-way-radio devices, with various connection data. However, you can use practically all radios on the PowerCom system via the appropriate connection adapters. If you change the radio system later, you only need a new connection cable. It was always our motto to manufacture devices, which can be operated with all accessories.

If one wants to operate a two-way-radio device, this can presumably only be done via a PTT key, because not every spoken word is to be sent. Is that so?

The PowerCom-system with two-way-radio automatic has a special "VOX-circuit" made for the use with motorbikes with automatic adaption to the driving noise. It automatically controls the PTT-key of the connected two-way-radio device. By a combined button and switch it can be set to  "Transmit-automatic", "Receive only" or "manual PTT-key".

In my two-way-radio connection always the first word is lost, what is the reason?

Modern two-way-radios use an electronic circuit to generate the different transmit- and receive-frequencies. After changing to transmit this circuit always needs some time to adjust to the right frequency. The delay till starting to transmit, is, depending on the two-way-radio, up to one second. At the receiver, the delay to opening the squelch also contributes to the delay, devices with a power saving circuit sometimes go very quickly into the sleep mode and may need very long to restart, such devices are practically unsuitable for VOX operation. CB-two-way-radios perform better in this respect than LPD- or PMR- two-way-radios, two-way-radios with a separate quartz for transmitting and receiving would be ideal, but today are virtually no longer available.

delay (average values):

total delay (measured values) e.g.:

PowerCom-systems with iVOX have a circuit for compensating the VOX-turn-on-delay up to ca. 600 ms. Compensation for an even longer delay is also possible, but makes no sense because then no undisturbed entertainment would be ensured.

Can i use my two-way-radios that have their own VOX-circuit at the PowerCom-system?

Yes, but when the,  two-way-radio has it's own VOX-circuit, you should turn it off, the transmit control integrated into the PowerCom system with radio hands-free-kit is specially designed for motorcycle operation and works much more precisely.

My transmit control (VOX) can't be turned off?

If you have deactivated the VOX on the remote-control of the PowerCom and it is on anyway, check, if you turned on the internal VOX of your two-way-radio.

Can it also be spoken from the co-driver's helmet to the two-way-radio, (e.g. with a parallel connected PTT-key)?

Yes, the co-driver can participate at two-way-radio and / or phone calls and, when die transmission-automatic is turned on, also the co-driver can talk over two-way-radio, also connecting a second PTT-key in parallel is possible.

Are there adapters, e.g. To mini-DIN or jack-plug? I would like to be able to e.g. continue using the two-way with my helmet, even if I use another vehicle.

Yes, if the customer wishes so, we also deliver custom-made products.

Exchanges respectively return rights for special and custom-made products.

These "special cases" are not taken into account by the regulations of selling over the Internet. That is why we preliminary cannot process special and custom-made products over our Internet-Shop unfortunately! Let us know your wishes, we will then create an individual offer for you.

I use a mobile phone and would like to make calls while driving, is that possible?

Yes, with our PowerCom-system with two-way-radio- and mobile phone hands-free-automatic you can receive phone calls while driving. The distraction is, in principle, no greater than when your conversation partner sits behind you on the machine. However, you should nevertheless reduce the driving speed sufficiently during telephone calls and also do not carry out distracting conversations.

Can I use my phone also without hands-free-kit? I have a PowerCom-INNOVA with mobile phone connection.

Yes, all PowerCom-systems with mobile phone connection have an integrated mobile phone hands-free-kit.

An especially elegant solution is to connect the  mobile phones over Bluetooth-dongle like the AKE Accessory-Adapter. Here the mobile phone can remain in the pocket of your jacket. You get on your motorbike, activate the Bluetooth connection and the automatic call-reception and now you can always make phone calls on the road over your PowerCom-system.

I use the mobile phone hands-free-kit with Bluetooth connection, but don't hear the ringing?

Since the beginning of the ringtone is lost in the Bluetooth connection, the selected melody should not be too short and loud enough. Choose a suitable ringtone in Your mobile phone for the headset-profile.

The mobile phone reacts strangely when speaking (hangs up, starts the redialling, etc.)

This effect can occur, when the two-way-radio VOX is turned on on the OnTour. At mobile phone usage turn off the two-way-radio VOX  or unplug the iVOX-plug.

Mobile reception at the Zumo too quiet, are there problems with the operation of a Zumo at the PowerCom systems?

Especially when stereo-audio and mobile phone shall be used together over one device, the PowerCom-combi-adapter LS-NH2+3, Art.-No. 33371 is needed. However, this only works with PowerCom-systems of the 4. generation or higher (serial No. 012127 or higher). This combi-adapter prevents the audio volume from being lowered when receiving from the mobile phone. As an alternative: Connect the mobile phone directly to the PowerCom-system. This solution gives the PowerCom-system the full control and also works with older systems. Operating the mobile phone over the Zumo is then no longer possible, but that is anyway better for Your own security!

I am a journalist and need to record notes while driving. Is something like that possible?

Yes, you can also operate a voice recorder via the PowerCom system with radio connection. With the "VOX-circuit" of the PowerCom-system, especially made for use with motorbikes, if wished, the voice recorder can be set to start to record automatically. So this does not require operation while driving, (if You can do without rewinding).

I would like to record my motorbike tours with the camcorder, can i add comments immediately?

Yes, you need the PowerCom system with Two-way-radio hands-free-kit and a camcorder adapter available from us. With this equipment, all your comments are recorded automatically. The automatic system can be switched off, so that You also can comment only on specific situations using the PTT-key.

Signals from other auxiliary devices are suppressed, if necessary. If You have a system with car-radio and two-way-radio automatic and listen to music at the same time, the music will not be sent to the camcorder. When using a combination with mobile phone with hands-free-kit a phone call will also not be sent to the camcorder.

There is an other interesting solution, the audio signal from the driver's helmet connector is used. In this case, everything is recorded as the driver hears it, so a real live recording is created.

I have a sidecar, can i connect a third helmet?

Yes, all PowerCom-systems can, if wanted, be equipped with a third helmet connection.

Two children in the "tender", the mommy on the pillion seat, what now?

In such cases we recommend installing a hand-held microphone with PTT-key into the sidecar. That way you don't hear all that your children have to say and can concentrate on driving. For the obligatory "need to pee" the children take the hand microphone with the PTT-key.

Is it possible to establish a voice connection to the closed sidecar (passengers without helmets)?

In the "tender" the  speaker-signal can also be transported e.g. to an active loudspeaker (with amplifier). In combination with a hand-held microphone with PTT-key the use without a helmet is possible. However, it must be ensured that the loudspeaker is already switched off when the PTT-key is switched on, otherwise an acoustic feedback can occur  (ensure that the switch has the function "break before make").

If you wish, we will happily even manufacture the whole suitable equipment altogether, it is best to send us a sketch with the desired cable lengths.

When do I need the Bluetooth helmet connector, to connect my Bluetooth helmet set to the PowerCom system?

Systems with integrated Bluetooth-Gateway don't need a Bluetooth-helmet connector for the drivers Bluetooth-helmet. Systems without integrated Bluetooth-Gateway need a Bluetooth-helmet connector for every Bluetooth-helmet.

Does the Bluetooth-helmet-connector need to be charged?

No, the Bluetooth-helmet-connector gets its electric energy from the PowerCom-system, charging is nor required.

Power-off automatic with Bluetooth-to-helmet?

If the connection “helmet-recognition for power-off automatic” at the power cable (blue cable) is connected to battery minus (black), the PowerCom-system turns off automatically, when no helmet is connected.

This operating mode is not possible when using the Bluetooth-to-helmet! In this case the blue cable has to be cut, and the  PowerCom-system has to be turned off by ignition or a separate switch. There is no need to unplug the Bluetooth-helmet-connectors.

Voice connection in only one direction?

In this case stereo mode is activated, switch to duplex mode by a short press of the Bluetooth-""operation""-switch.

The connection to the helmet is lost when the engine is started or is not restored when turning the power off - on quickly.

Before turning on the power supply again always await the turn-off-prompt-sound. Otherwise it may take two minutes for the connection to be reestablished, or that it completely stops. When e.g. The starter is operated in the case of a weak on-board battery, and the electrical board power breaks down pulsed to less than 6V, it can happen, that the electronics switch off and on several times! In this case, you should turn on the PowerCom system, e.g. via a separate switch, only after the machine has started

In stereo-mode there is currently no turn-off-prompt-sound. If the connection doesn't get restored:
Shortly turn off the supply of the PowerCom or the Bluetooth-helmet set (or press MFB  4s (BT-off) and then press  4s (BT on)), the stereo-connection gets established again.

Why is the connection to the helmet via Bluetooth worse than over cables?

Bluetooth uses an internationally defined transmission standard for digital and digitized analog signals. The stipulated parameters are not enough for a high-quality connection to the helmet. Especially the maximum dynamic-range, (distance from the quietest signal without noises to the loudest signal without distortion) causes problems here.

PowerCom motorcycle communication systems guarantee simultaneous transmission of stereo audio in the one direction and voice signal in the other direction in high transmission quality, this is unfortunately not possible with the Bluetooth connection to the helmet in comparable quality so far.

Our PowerCom-systems series 05 or higher circumvent this problem, by always, when no duplex mode is needed, switching the Bluetooth-connection to the helmet automatically to stereo. With older systems, or when using the AKE Bluetooth-helmet connectors at other helmet-intercoms, you can manually switch to stereo.

What can i do about vehicle-interferences?

In the technical support area of our homepage under downloads you find instructions and examples about how to eliminate vehicle-interferences.

Disturbances that come from the connected devices themselves

Sometimes devices, especially navigation systems can cause disturbances themselves. Check if you use the right cables and if they are correctly connected.

Especially if the connection cable for the navigation system / mobile phone combinations is not connected correctly, disturbances from the navigation system can be transmitted. Note that these must be connected to the mobile phone port [H] and not to the navigation system port [N]!

Why two setting trimmers for the driving noise emission compensation?

Depending on the type of motorbike,  installation location and manner of driving, the driving noise emission compensation has to be adjusted individually and exact.

In order to cover a larger setting range and at the same time to enable five basic settings, the two trimmers Noisecompensation 1 ... 3 and 4 ... 6 are provided for the adjustment of the driving noise compensation. While not driving respectively without driving noise those trimmers are without effect!

What is the influence of the setting trimmer on intercom volume?

This trimmer should not be turned to much. Each person automatically adjusts his speech volume to hear how loud he hears himself. Too high an intercom volume causes the user to talk too quiet, which can possibly make a reliable voice recognition impossible with high vehicle noise. The trimmer has no influence on the microphone-response-threshold.

Can I install a separate PTT (transmit) button?

Sometimes it is better for the handling to use a separate PTT key instead of the remote control unit, so the remote control unit can be installed in a less accessible position. For connecting a control unit and a PTT button (or a second control unit for the pillion) a derivation cable is available. We also have separate buttons for the handlebar and finger switches in the delivery program which can be alternatively or additionally connected.

If the headlight-flasher-button is not needed, It can also be used as transmit button. For that you need a  cable for the remote control device with open ends.

My slightly older helmet connectors make noises when plugging in?

This problem can be solved easily, spray the helmet plugs and couplings from time to time with a little contact spray. This also increases the lifespan of the connectors. You get contact spray in every electronics store.

Despite regular maintenance with contact spray, my system does not switch off automatically after long rides in the rain.

Too much of a good thing. Contact spray unfortunately also has a disadvantage. Since not only the contact but also the insulation is usually wetted (with the spray) between the contacts, the insulation resistance is reduced here, especially with a lot of contact spray and wet plug. This makes it more likely that the system does not switch off when the plug is wet.

Why does  the jack plug of the connection cable not fit to my mobile phone / my hands-free kit, although the correct plug is mounted?

Some mobile phones require very tight tolerances at the permissible measures of the connectors. If necessary, let the jack plug be fitted by a suitable original accessory part to the connecting cable or sent to us.

What is the difference between the loudspeakers HighVoice and HighSound at the helmet set?

The Loudspeakers HighVoice are optimized for voice transmission for motorbikes The Loudspeakers HighSound supply also base sound and their sound characteristic is better suitable for listening to music in helmets. But the mounting is more complicated than with the HighVoice system.

My friend has super base sound in his helmet, how can I have that too (we both have the HighSound speakers)?

Every helmet-type has a different sound characteristic. For the best bass sound it is important, that the speakers sit as near as possible to the earholes, but with some helmets that is not possible.

You can try to extend the distance between the front and rear sound openings by placing the loudspeaker in a plastic plate and cutting and straightening it so that it still fits into the helmet. For the acoustics-freaks: It is important, that at least close to the loudspeaker for the basses an acoustic short circuit should be avoided.

Does the Moisture of long rides in the rain cause damage?

All PowerCom Helmet Sets are moisture resistant.

Does the PowerCom-Device also work with Helmet Sets of other manufacturers?

PowerCom-Devices from series 04 (from serial-# 12128) and up can be changed for use of standard helmsets with electret microphones.
However, the power-on automatic and the automatic blocking of the microphone when driving solo (use with only one helmet) are turned off, that means the Device must be turned on by the ignition or a switch and the helmet microphone also stays active, when it is actually not needed (no blocking of the microphone when driving solo). The same applies here, the microphone should be a version with noise reduction.

Can i use the PowerCom-Device or the Bluetooth-Helmet sets also with open helmets?

Yes, jet helmets can be used with the PBM1 on PowerCom-Devices. But please heed, that, at high driving speeds, an unprotected microphone is extremely loaded by wind noise. For a good speech quality jet helmets with boom-mike should only be used on motorbikes with big windshield and at moderate driving speed.

Does the Helmet Set fit into every Helmet?

Our Helmet Sets are neutral, that means built independent of the helmet type. But high quality helmet microphones and helmet loudspeakers also require some space. Your helmet should have about 2cm space in front of your mouth  and 1 cm in the area of the ears behind the foam padding. It gets difficult with helmets  that have the separation between the upper and the lower helmet upholstery exactly in the area of the ears but such helmets are rather rare these days. When having problems with too less space, in case of need the upholstery can be cut out a bit

Some types of helmets have a ventilation hole just before the mouth. However, this is not usually tragic because the open-pore windscreen foam of the helmet microphone is air-permeable. If the ventilation hole can be closed, you should place the slider in the optimum position before installing the microphone.

With a Flip-Up-Helmet you need an elastic cable connection to the helmet microphone (is included with our helmet sets for Flip-Up-Helmets). Alternatively also a Boom-Mike can be used, in case e.g. the helmet has  too little space above for the microphone when the front part of the helmet is folded up. The advantage of the firmly installed microphone is, that it does not move when putting on the helmet and so does not have to be positioned new every time.