Inventys MicroFogger 3 Lite User manual
MicroFogger 3 Lite - User Manual (V1.10 Dec21)
Initial Preparation –IMPORTANT Please Read!
Turn MF3 “ON” using the rocker switch BEFORE attaching the charging cable,
Put the included USB charging cable into a USB charger socket outlet and Then connect
USB charging cable to the MF3.
Only use a wall socket/mains supplied type of USB charger to ensure the unit charges fully
and also to prevent unintentional activation during charging.
Allow the MicroFogger to fully charge before beginning to use it. This can take up to 6 hours.
See page 3 for colours of LED lights during charging etc
•NOTE: The MF3 Lite will only accept charge if it has been turned on as described above.
•Carefully unscrew the black fluid tank (see image bottom right) by turning anti-clockwise
•Double check that a coil is installed (it usually is)
•Using the 50ml bottle of fog liquid, unscrew bottle cap. Using the pipette-style tip,
carefully pour fog liquid into the gap between the inner and outer walls of the reservoir.
DON’T pour into the central part (coloured RED in image). Don’t squeeze the bottle too
hard –or you’ll overfill and spill the liquid!
•Keep filling the fluid tank until the liquid is at the
same level as the top of the interior metal wall.
•At this stage –with fingers –check the coil (small
silver cylinder) is firmly screwed into place (good
finger tight!)
•Holding the reservoir tank upright, invert the MF3 body on to
it and screw the body on to the tank (again, good finger tight).
Turn the MF3 back to the upright position.
•Now make a cup of tea/coffee as you should let the MF3 Lite
rest upright for a minimum of 30 mins (this ensures that the
liquid properly seeps into the new heating coil). The coil may
be damaged if you don’t wait the 30 mins.
Quick Start - Operation
•With the ON/OFF rocker switch is set to ‘On’ - pressing the main (large black) button
produces smoke.
Remember - the MicroFogger 3 is designed to be an impulse device.
Using it continuously will make the heating coil wear out faster.
It is recommended that you use bursts of no longer than 10 seconds with 10 seconds rest
between bursts.
On-Board Controls & Operational Notes
There is a rocker switch, a main push button and 2 lights (LEDs) on the MF3.
Large Round Button
•Hold down to start smoke production and release to stop.
Rocker/Toggle Switch
•Move to the I (“ON”) position to turn the MF3 on for charging or for operation.
•Move to the 0 (“OFF”) position to completely turn the device off (and especially for
storage). In the “OFF” position there will be little or no battery drain.
•NOTE: For safety reasons and to preserve the coil, there is a 10 second limit on
continuous use. The MF3 will stop producing smoke at this point and the top LED may
show orange/red
•The power button needs to be pressed again to resume smoke however it is
recommended that you wait at least 10 seconds between each burst to allow the fog
fluid to be re-absorbed. Failing to do this will cause excessive coil wear.
•The MF3 can be used in any orientation provided that the tank is reasonably full. It is
recommended however that you keep the MF3 upright (with the nozzle pointing
vertically upwards) as much as possible. This allows the coil to absorb the liquid better,
even when the tank is near-empty.
•The MF3 must always be used vertically when the tank is low on fluid as other
orientations would produce a similar effect to running without fluid in the tank.
•If the MF3 is to be used vertically in a static position and smoke output is required in a
downward direction, it is recommended that the optional “Hose Attachment Accessory”
is purchased for that purpose.
The Remote Control
•(if ordered) The MF3_Remote models come with an external plug-in ‘Dongle’ and an
operation key fob.
•If present - remove the plastic battery protection strip on the key fob. The remote
control will send commands to any nearby MF3s when a remote button is pressed.
•There is no limit on the number of MicroFoggers that you can simultaneously control
provided that they are all within range.
•
Indicator Lights/LEDs
With the MF3 positioned upright –there are two LEDs; Upper and Lower
NOTE: When the MF3 is OFF using the Toggle Switch –the both LEDs will also be turned off
When the MicroFogger 3 Lite is fully charged, the orange charging indicator will turn off (but
this may take up to 6 hours to complete).
However, the battery will be charged to most of its capacity within 2 hours so it is not
necessary to “top it off” by leaving it on charge for the full duration.
Storage and Maintenance
•After each use, we recommend ejecting any excess fog liquid that may have re-
condensed within the barrel of the MicroFogger.
•This can be done by simply “flicking” the MicroFogger while holding it to eject any
excess liquid from the barrel. Make sure to flick it into a sink to avoid getting drops on
your floor.
•Alternatively, you can tap the MicroFogger’s barrel on a surface while keeping it
upside-down to encourage the liquid to drip out.
•Failure to eject excess liquid after use may result in liquid damage in the long term.
•To store the MF3, fully charge it and then turn it off using the Rocker Switch.
•Place it in a cool, dry place that is away from direct sunlight and any potentially
flammable materials.
•Unscrew the fluid tank and heating coil. Give both a quick rinse in clean cold water to
remove any fog fluid. Dry with a paper towel.
•Leave the heating coil unscrewed (ie off the MF3) during storage
•A burning smell coming from the MF3 indicates that the heating coil should be
replaced.
To change the coil:-
1. Unscrew the MF3 from the fluid tank while keeping the MF3 body pointed downwards
(to prevent spillage).
2. Gently wipe away any smoke liquid that remains on the now-exposed metal
components on the body of the MicroFogger with paper towel
3. Unscrew the heating coil (the small metal cylinder) by rotating it in an anti-clockwise
direction. Usually this can be done by finger pressure alone however if the coil is
excessively tight, gentle use of pliers may be needed.
4. If you notice any liquid in the airflow channel under the heating coil, wipe away as
much of it as possible using a paper towel.
5. Remove a spare heating coil from its blister packaging and screw it into the slot. Make
sure it is (finger) tight - a loose heating coil can cause the MF3 to leak or display a
heating coil error.
6. Re-fill the fluid tank and as with the first-time initial setup do allow the liquid to
absorb for at least 30 minutes before using the MF3.
NOTE: If during operation the MF3 does not produce any smoke but you hear a ‘bubbling’
sound –STOP immediately as there is excessive fog liquid inside the heating coil.
Try “flicking” the MF3 away from you to expel the liquid from the barrel. DO THIS OVER
A SINK! . Then try gently tapping the MF3 barrel on a flat surface to expel the liquid.
If this does not work –you will need to change the heating coil.
Troubleshooting
No smoke is emitted even though the fan spins and the top LED is blue when you press the
main button
Ensure the heating coil is fully tightened. If the problem persists, carefully insert a fine
screwdriver or other rod-like object into the barrel of the MicroFogger (the hole from which
smoke is emitted) while the unit Rocker Switch is turned off.
Briefly apply light pressure to the screwdriver, this will ensure that proper electrical contact
is restored. Remove the screwdriver and try again.
Should this error persist, replace the coil with a new one.
Fluid Tank Leaking
Ensure both the heating coil and the tank are fully screwed home (finger tight). If problem
persists –ensure all white gaskets on the heating coil and the tank are properly and securely
in place (and undamaged).
MicroFogger Won’t Turn ON
Plug it in to charge (with the Rocker/Toggle Switch ‘ON’) and wait at least 4 hours until the
MicroFogger recharges.
MicroFogger Won’t Charge
If the MF3 is in a critically low battery state, the flashing LED may not come on for the first
30 minutes of charging. If LED lights and codes do not display after this time, please try
using another charger and micro-USB cable to diagnose whether it is an issue with the MF3
or not.
MicroFogger keeps charging forever (Lower LED Orange)
Some USB ports may not charge the MF3 to 100% of its capacity but rather to a nearly
charged state of around 90%. To fully charge the MF3, try plugging it into another USB port.
This is a non-critical error.
MicroFogger turns on when the USB cable is plugged into it but the other end of the cable
is not in a charger!
This can occur with some cables where the MF3 recognises the USB cable configuration
being used as a trigger input (a feature that allows the MF3 to be triggered though a fixed
cable rather than by radio remote). Disconnect the cable from the MF3 and plug it into a
charging port before reconnecting to the body of the MF3.
MicroFogger produces a burning smell even with a new heating coil
There may be a very slight burning smell present in the first few second of operation with a
new coil. This is normal. If the smell persists or becomes more noticeable, stop using the
MF3 and allow it to rest for at least another 30 minutes before switching on again.
Ensure that the fluid tank is fully filled. In cold environments, the fog liquid becomes more
viscous (thickens) and will take longer to be absorbed into the heating coil.
In these situations, place the MicroFogger in a warm area before using it.
Safety Considerations
The MicroFogger 3 (MF3) is powered by a high-performance Lithium-ion battery. This type
of battery presents a potential fire risk if handled improperly. The following safety
guidelines aim to prevent any issues from arising:
•Never leave the MF3 charging while unattended
•Never charge an MF3 using a computer or a battery bank
•Keep the MF3 away from any flammable materials
•Do not expose the MF3 to temperatures over 400C
•Never attempt to disassemble the MF3 or undertake unauthorised modifications
•Don’t expose to direct sunlight for extended periods of time
•Always ensure the MF3’s heating coil compartment is clear of debris
•If the MF3 sustains a significant impact through a drop or other mishap, immediately
cease operation (unplug it if it is charging) and place it in a safe area
outdoors and wait for at least 10 minutes.
•If the lower half of the MF3 heats up to a temperature of over 400C, immediately
cease operation (unplug it if it is charging) and place it in a safe area outdoors and
wait for at least 10 minutes. Do not use again until the MF3 has cooled down to
normal operational temperatures.
•Never attempt to power the MF3 using a home-made charging cable.
•Always store the MF3 with the heating coil unscrewed and “Rocker/Toggle Switch” in
the “OFF” position
During operation, the MF3 heats a mixture of Propylene Glycol and Glycerine in an
internal metal coil in order to produce the smoke effect. These chemicals are often used as
food additives, and both are generally recognised as safe to handle. To prevent any heat-
related issues please follow these sensible guidelines:
•Never touch the fluid tank during operation as it runs hot and can cause burns
•Always allow the fluid tank to cool down before changing coils or refilling liquid
•Never aim the MF3 directly at people or animals that are within 1m of range as
occasionally small droplets of fog fluid can be projected from the nozzle
•Never look directly into the MF3’s nozzle while it is running
Finally, a few more sensible guidelines that should be respected:
•Never allow anyone under the age of 18 to use the MicroFogger 2
•If the smoke starts smelling burnt, immediately cease operation and replace the
heating coil with a new one.
•Never leave the MF3 in a car that is exposed to direct sunlight as during hot
weather this is likely to cause the plastic case to degrade and potentially soften.
This could result in gaps forming around the edges of the top cover.
Potential Health Impacts
The MF3 produces smoke by heat applied evaporation of a mix of Propylene Glycol and
Vegetable Glycerine. The liquid is quite ‘sticky’ if it gets on your skin/fingers but this can be
quickly removed by rinsing with clean water.
Although the above chemicals are both generally recognized as safe and are commonly used
in food additives and skin lotions, you must always follow sensible handling and usage
directions:
•Do not consume the fog liquid
•If fog liquid enters the eyes, wash immediately with clean water
•Never use the MF3 near children under the age of 4 or pregnant women
•Never use the MF3 near people with pulmonary or renal heath issues
•Never deliberately inhale the smoke produced
•Do not operate the MF3 if the liquid tank is empty
•Do not “fog up”a room to a visibility of less than 3m
•Never use any fog liquid other than the proprietary liquid provided.
•If anyone in the operational area exhibits symptoms of nausea, light-headedness or
other adverse health-related effects immediately cease operation and remove
affected person(s) to a well-ventilated room with fresh air. Call a doctor if symptoms
persist.
Vosentech LLC and Inventys Ltd (t/a LEVShop) will not accept any
responsibility for property damage or bodily harm caused by the improper
use of the MicroFogger 3.
It is the user’s responsibility to follow the guidelines set out in this Manual
and to use good judgement - together with knowledge of the risks detailed
above, to safely operate the device. If you are unwilling to accept the risks
associated with using this device, immediately return it for a full refund.
Support@vosentech.com
Package Contents
The following should be included with your standard MF3.
•Dropper bottle with 50ml of fog liquid
•Replacement heating coil in blister pack
•Instruction manual or download link
•USB charging cable
Depending on your specific order details, some or all of the following additional items may
also be included in the box.
•Set of 5 additional replacement coils
•Remote control (dongle and operating key-fob)
•Extra bottle of fog fluid
•Hose attachment (4mm/6mm)
•Rake attachment
•Black plastic IP65 Instrument carry case
•Loc-Line accessories
ADVANCED - Additional Features
The MF3 supports several additional features to make it easier to incorporate the effects
into your own custom projects.
Please note that although these modifications are officially supported, you may void your
MF3 warranty should you decide to proceed with any of these effects as there is a potential
to damage the internal electronics if they are not followed carefully.
Whilst the following guides will detail each step to make the process as easy as possible, we
still advise that you only attempt these modifications if you believe you have sufficient
technical knowledge. Proceed at your own risk!
Wired Remote Control Operation
The MicroFogger can be triggered via its USB port to permit automated control or to
activate the MF3 over long distances (further than the radio Remote-Control operational
distance).
This can be done by simply connecting the two data pins (pins 3 and 4) of the micro USB
port together. To access these pins, you can strip the end off a data transferring micro USB
cable and then plug it into the MicroFogger.
Typically, when exposed, these wires will be green and white, but the colour can depend on
the exact type of cable used.
For triggering it is normally the white and green wires that are used. You can now solder
these wires to a relay or switch of your choice but take care not to let the red and black
wires touch!
If you only see two wires after stripping the USB cable, that means that it is a power-only
USB cable rather than a data+power one so it won’t work as a signal cannot be sent through
it.
In more advanced projects, you can connect the relay to a micro-controller such as a
Raspberry Pi or an Arduino to allow for precise timing or environment-dependent triggering
when paired with additional sensors.
Please note that the 10 second continuous use cut-off is still in place even when the MF3 is
activated through the USB port.
Warning! Incorrect wiring or accidental contact between any wires other than the data
ones can lead to irreversible damage to the MF3 which will not be covered by the warranty.
Pin 5 = +ve
Pin 4 = data
Pin 3 = data
Pin 2 = unused
Pin 1 = -ve
Support and FAQs
Can the MicroFogger trigger smoke alarms?
Yes! Ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms may be activated. Traditional heat-
activated smoke alarms and sprinklers will not be affected.
Is it possible to change the smoke colour?
Unfortunately, not. The MF3 produces smoke by heat evaporation of a fog liquid. It can
only be white and adding a dye to the liquid will not change the smoke colour.
The only way to simulate coloured smoke using the MF3 would be to use external lighting
(eg lasers).
Can I breathe in the smoke?
The liquid is a food additive and under normal operations, the fog produced is considered to
be non-toxic. However, we do not recommend breathing in the smoke.
The smoke can only become potentially harmful to inhale if the safety precautions regarding
the replacement of worn-out heating coils are not followed
What is the fog liquid?
The liquid consists of a high purity vegetable glycerine and propylene glycol mixture and is
sometimes used as a food additive. The same liquid is also found in cigarette replacement
vaping units.
Can I use liquids from other smoke machines?
Liquids from other fog machines are usually far less viscous (thinner) than our composition
so if used in the MicroFogger, they are unlikely to produce any smoke.
We can only guarantee the safety and performance of the fog liquid that we sell so if you
decide to experiment with other compositions, this would at your own risk.
How long does the smoke linger in the air?
Depending on atmospheric conditions, the smoke can remain in the air for up to an hour
after being released. The main factor affecting persistence is whether or not there is any air
movement, drafts as these will greatly accelerate smoke dispersion.
Do original MicroFogger heating coils work with the MicroFogger 3?
Absolutely, we’ve kept the heating coils the same so that you can use any that you have
previously purchased from us.
What obstacles can the remote control signal go through?
It really depends on the exact situation but in general, as a rough guideline, you will be able
to control the MicroFogger though several thin plaster walls. Similarly, if you decide to put it
into cardboard or fabric enclosure, you shouldn’t encounter any issues. On the other hand,
metal barrier such as car doors will usually block the signal although we have even had luck
with activating the MicroFogger while it was inside a car hood!
Can I control the MicroFogger 2 via a wired remote?
Yes, the usb charging port also doubles as a signal input which allows you to trigger the
MicroFogger using a switch, relay or micro controller of your choice.
You’ll need our control cable accessory to access this functionality.
….. And Finally
If you believe that your Microfogger is faulty, please check the Troubleshooting section of
this manual.
If your problem persists, please reach out to us at the email address below.
If it is a specific question about your order, please include your Invoice/Order number which
can be found on your printed invoice.
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