Now & Zen Zen Alarm Clock User manual

Now & Zen
quality of thought, stillness of being
The Zen Alarm Clock
for a progressive awakening
1
®
®
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Contents Page
I. Introduction––Zen Alarm Clock Basics 4
1. Uses and Benefits 4
2. Progressive Awakening 5
II. Dreamwork and the Zen Alarm Clock 9
1. The Power of Dreams 9
2. Dream Physiology 10
3. Dream Incubation & Conservation Using the Clock 12
III. Affirmations and the Zen Alarm Clock 16
1. Programming Your Preconscious for a Better Life 16
2. Brain Wave Physiology & Alpha Waves 17
3. Creating Your Own Affirmations & Using the Clock 19
IV. Meditation and the Zen Alarm Clock 21
1. The Meditative State 21
2. Using the Chime to End Your Meditation 22
3. Meditating on the Chime 23
V. Graceful Social Transitions and the Zen Alarm Clock 26
1. Being Here Now & Being On Time 26
2. Progressive Chime Applications 27
VI. The Zen Alarm Clock’s Design Principles 29
1. The Chime’s Pythagorean Tuning 29
2. The Chime’s Golden Mean Progression 30
VII. Instructions and Technical Considerations 34
VIII. About Now & Zen 40
3
The Zen Alarm Clock ®
The Clock and Booklet were conceived, designed
and written by Steve McIntosh
Made in Shen Zhen China, exclusively for
Now & Zen, Inc.
P.O. Box 110
Boulder, Colorado
80306
The name “Zen Alarm Clock” and the phrase
“for a progressive awakening” are trademarks of
Now & Zen.
© 2004 Now & Zen, Inc.
Eighth Printing
U.S. Patent Number 390,121
2
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I. Introduction––Zen Alarm Clock Basics
The Zen Alarm Clock is a consciousness-raising tool. No materi-
al object can actually raise your consciousness, but you can use
information and devices such as this clock to stimulate your
growth. The Zen Alarm Clock can effect your awareness in a
variety of positive ways, all of which require your participation.
You can certainly use and enjoy the clock without reading this
booklet, but to understand its full potential, please look over the
pages that follow.
1. Uses and Benefits
How the Zen Alarm Clock Works
The Zen Alarm Clock works like any standard alarm clock, but
with a unique difference. When the alarm sounds, the clock
makes a single strike of a pure tone chime which resonates for
about 45 seconds. Approximately three and a half minutes after
the first strike, the clock strikes the chime a second time. The
time interval between chime strikes then decreases gradually over
4
a ten minute period until the chime reaches the “terminal cycle” in
which it sounds every 4.7 seconds continuously until it is turned
off. The graph on page 31 shows the chime’s progression. The
chime is struck with the same force every time. However, the
chime’s gradually increasing frequency assures adequate arousal.
Ways to Use the Clock
The clock can be used simply as a pleasant way to wake up.
However, the highly resonant sound of the pure tone acoustic
chime and its unique computerized progression allow the clock to
be used for dreamwork, personal affirmations, meditation, and for
group meetings. The chart on the next page shows the various
ways the clock can be used and the benefits to be derived from
each use. The sections that follow describe these uses in greater
detail.
2. Progressive Awakening
It would be nice if we could wake up every morning without an
alarm. We fall asleep gradually, and it seems only natural that a
gentle awakening is best for our physical and mental well-being.
Some people wake up naturally at the same time every morning
without any outside stimulus. But for most of us, an alarm clock
Introduction
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6
Uses and Benefits of the Zen Alarm Clock
CLOCK USES: WAKING UP DREAMS AFFIRMATIONS MEDITATION MEETINGS
BENEFITS: Gradual Improved aware- Improved Improved Provides a
awakening; ness of dream life self-esteem; quality of tactful but
Diminished and increased Greater focus meditation; persistent
grogginess self-knowledge on goals; Clock acts way to begin &
Elimination as a reminder end meetings
of bad habits to meditate daily on time
STATE OF Transition Sleep Deep Meditation Social interaction
CONSCIOUS- from sleep relaxation
NESS:
BRAIN From theta Rapid eye Alpha brain Stillness or Cognitive
ACTIVITY: to beta movement (REM) waves contemplation concentration
brain waves sleep
Uses and Benefits
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II. Dreamwork and the Zen Alarm Clock
1. The Power of Dreams
Dreams have provided a meaningful source of wisdom and guid-
ance for people throughout history. Dreams have played an
important role in all major Western and Eastern religions. The
dream state has been cultivated by mystics and shamans through-
out the ages, and science has proven a link between dreams and
psychic phenomenon such as telepathy. Many renowned artists
and scientists have successfully used dreams to further their
work. Although there is much about dreams which is not under-
stood, there is general agreement that dreams are required for
good health. It has even been shown that dreams can be used to
diagnose oncoming health problems and suggest treatment.
Dream deprivation has even been known to produce psychosis.
One of the most important benefits of the Zen Alarm Clock is
that it can put you more in touch with your dream life.
is essential. The natural desire for a gradual awakening accounts
for the popularity of “snooze buttons” on alarm clocks. But even
the minimal effort required to push a snooze button can disrupt
the experience of waking up gradually. The benefits of a more
natural “progressive awakening” include better dream recall, pro-
longed alpha brain wave activity (in which you can make power-
ful suggestions to your preconscious mind), as well as a general
feeling of being refreshed after a good night’s rest.
The Zen Alarm Clock’s chime becomes more frequent according
to a “golden mean progression.” The significance of the golden
mean and its use in the clock is discussed below in section VI. The
Zen Alarm Clock’s Design Principles, beginning on page 29.
Introduction
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Dreams are fragile. One concrete thought, or the movement nec-
essary to turn off an alarm or hit a snooze button, can demolish a
dream memory. When you don’t have the luxury of waking up
when your body is naturally ready, the Zen Alarm Clock provides
a buffer space in which your dream state can be gently concluded.
In one famous dream research experiment, a small stream of
water was squirted on the bare backs of dreaming subjects. The
Dreamwork
Dream analysis has played a crucial role in the development of
the field of psychology. Sigmund Freud maintained that dreams
were the “royal road to the unconscious.” Carl Jung analyzed
common symbols in dreams which he called “archetypes.” Jung’s
approach to psychology relied heavily on dream interpretation.
Today “dreamwork,” as it is called, is an important part of many
peoples’ spiritual development. By becoming aware of the con-
tent of your dreams, you can establish a relationship with the
deepest reaches of your inner self.
2. Dream Physiology
Dream research has shown that most of our dreams occur during
periodic rapid eye movement (“REM”) sleep cycles throughout
the night. Below is a chart showing the average frequency and
duration of REM sleep in healthy adults.
Notice that during a typical night’s sleep of 8 hours, the longest
REM cycle (lasting between 30 and 50 minutes) occurs in the last
hour. Most of the dreams we remember––the dreams which
affect our lives and from which we can learn––occur in this last
REM cycle. Thus, if you wake up with the aid of an alarm clock,
the alarm will probably sound during your last REM sleep cycle,
while you are dreaming.
Dreamwork
12345678
Periods of Rapid Eye Movement
During Sleep
Awake
REM
Stages
of
Non-
REM
Sleep
Hours of Sleep
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your dreams and allowing your dreaming mind to “finish the
dream;” and secondly, by giving you the time between chimes to
lie in bed undisturbed when you are first awakened, so you can
recall your dreams.
Finishing Your Dreams
In the dream/water experiment described in the previous section,
some dreaming subjects were awakened by the water right away,
while others were not. It may take several chimes of the Zen
Alarm Clock to arouse you from a dreaming state, or you may be
awakened by the first chime. But even if the first chime does
wake you, it is possible to resume or re-enter a dream from which
you are marginally awakened if you are allowed to return to the
dream without further disturbance. The interval between the first
and second chimes can provide a period of time for you to reach a
cathartic conclusion to your dream. Preventing the abrupt inter-
ruption of your dreams acts to preserve your dream experiences,
and maximizes the psychic benefits to be derived from improved
memory of your dreams.
Remembering Your Dreams
There is general agreement among dream researchers that “natur-
al” awakening (as opposed to using a clock radio or buzzer alarm)
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subjects usually did not wake up immediately upon being squirted
with the water. When they did awake, many subjects reported
experiencing some form of water in their dream. One subject
reported that in his dream, he was on a stage in a play and the
leading lady had collapsed. In the dream he rushed over to assist
her. As he knelt over her, he felt water leaking on his head
through the roof of the theater. He then pulled the fallen actress
over to the side of the stage out of the way of the water dripping
from the leaky roof. The dream researchers noted that the time
required to move the actress to the side of the stage in the sub-
ject’s dream corresponded to the time between the squirting of the
water on the subject’s back and his awakening.
Thus it has been clinically proven that an outside stimulus which
does not immediately awaken the dreamer can signal to the
dreaming mind that it is time to gradually conclude the dream.
The Zen Alarm Clock’s initial chime can act as just such a signal
to your dreaming mind.
3. Dream Incubation & Conservation Using the Clock
The Zen Alarm Clock can help you remember and use your
dreams in two basic ways: First, by not abruptly interrupting
Dreamwork Dreamwork
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Further Reading:
Wolf, Fred Alan The Dreaming Universe: A mind expanding journey
into the realm where psyche and physics meet. New York: Simon &
Schuster, Inc. 1994.
Kripner, Stanley, Ed. Dreamtime & Dreamwork: Decoding the
Language of the Night. Los Angeles: Jeremy P. Tarcher. Inc., 1990.
Van De Castle, Robert L. Our Dreaming Mind. New York:
Ballantine Books, 1994.
Dreamwork
aids in dream retention and understanding. The Zen Alarm
Clock comes closer to providing a natural awakening than any
other wake-up aid.
For best results, as you are falling asleep at night, resolve that
your first thought upon waking will be the recollection of your
dream. Whether or not you are in the middle of a REM cycle
when the chime wakes you, your best dream memories will be
available in your first moments of waking consciousness. Before
opening your eyes or moving, lie quietly and try to remember
your dream. Recall the sequence of events and the most vivid
images. When you have a conscious memory of your dream, you
are ready to open your eyes and get up. Keeping a notebook by
your bed to write down your dream memories can also be helpful.
Discovering the value of your dream life can be richly rewarding.
Dreamwork
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beliefs. Studies have shown that by using affirmations and “alpha
wave programming techniques,” limiting beliefs can be exchanged
for “liberating beliefs” which can make amazing differences in
your performance. Going beyond mere “positive thinking,” alpha
wave techniques provide a bridge between your conscious and
preconscious mind.
2. Brain Wave Physiology & Alpha Waves
Since the invention of the electroencephalogram (EEG) in the
1930’s, scientists have been able to measure the electrical activity
of the brain. In the active waking state, brain waves vibrate
between 14 and 20 cycles per second. Active waking brain waves
are called beta waves. During sleep, brain waves vibrate between
2 and 8 cycles per second. Intervening between waking brain
wave activity and sleeping brain waves, is a rhythmic form of
brain activity known as alpha waves. Alpha rhythms (8 to 13
cycles per second) appear when your eyes are closed and your
mind is in a quiet state of relaxation.
Your brain has two sides––a right and left hemisphere. The left
side of your brain is associated with logic and reason, while the
right is involved with creativity and intuition. When your brain is
Affirmations
III. Affirmations and the Zen Alarm Clock
In between the sleeping state and the waking state is a state of
deep relaxation in which your subconscious or “preconscious”
mind can be positively influenced. Making life-changing impres-
sions on your preconscious mind can be accomplished by making
“affirmations,” or positive statements to yourself. The process of
improving your life through affirmations and the role played by
the Zen Alarm Clock are discussed in this section.
1. Programming Your Preconscious Mind for a Better Life
Conscious and unconscious beliefs about yourself and your poten-
tial have a powerful effect on your life. Limiting beliefs you have
acquired in your life can hold you back in subtle but damaging
ways. Freeing yourself from your limiting beliefs and replacing
them with beliefs that expand your potential is a focus of cutting
edge psychology. Researchers have found that your beliefs about
yourself lodge in your preconscious mind. These beliefs cannot
be changed by will power alone; they must be replaced by new
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3. Creating Your Own Affirmations & Using the Clock
An affirmation is a specialized technique of stating a goal to your-
self in a way that re-programs your preconscious mind for
improved performance. Affirmations are most effective when
they are expressed as statements of fact or convictions written
down in your own language. Your affirmations should be person-
al, positive and in the present tense. If your goal is to become a
better parent, for example, effective affirmations may include: “I
am balanced in my expressions of discipline and understanding
toward my children.” or “When I demonstrate love and compas-
sion to my kids, they learn to show love and warmth to each
other.”
Formulate and write down an affirmation that will improve your
life. Before you go to bed, read the affirmation to yourself and
resolve to remember it when you first wake up. When you are
awakened by the Zen Alarm Clock’s chime, lie quietly in bed
before moving or opening your eyes and repeat your affirmation
to yourself three times. The chances are good that your brain will
be in a deep alpha state during the first few chimes of the clock.
If you do nothing to disturb this “freshly awakened” state, your
affirmations will be most effective and you should achieve your
Affirmations
in an alpha wave state, the right side is most active; the critical
censoring function performed by your left brain is “half asleep.”
When in the alpha state, your affirmations can more easily pass
through the “gate-keeper” of your left hemisphere, unaffected by
self-doubt, and into your preconscious mind. When an affirma-
tion is successfully received by your preconscious mind it can
have a significant effect on your reaction patterns.
Although alpha brain waves occur naturally as you are falling
asleep or day dreaming, alpha wave activity is at its height when
you first wake up. Concrete thoughts, physical activity, or light
on the retina of the eye can send the brain out of alpha and into
beta wave activity. Thus the ideal time for programming the pre-
conscious mind through suggestions in the alpha state is immedi-
ately upon awakening. Through the use of affirmations in the
alpha state, the mind’s natural impressioning power can help you
stick to your diet, improve your self image, or make you more
motivated. Repeating commands to the preconscious mind pre-
pares you for success. Repetition is key and the effects of alpha
wave state affirmations are cumulative.
Affirmations
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desired results. Like dreamwork, improving your life through
alpha wave techniques can be accomplished without the use of
the Zen Alarm Clock. But using the clock makes the process eas-
ier and more fun.
Further Reading:
Johnson & Swindley Creating Confidence: The secrets of self-esteem.
Rockport, MA: Element, Inc., 1994.
Gillett, Richard Change Your Mind, Change Your World: A Practical
Guide to Turning Limiting Beliefs into Positive Realities. New York:
Simon & Schuster, 1992.
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IV. Meditation and the Zen Alarm Clock
Beyond the psychological inquiry into dreams or the self-
improvement techniques of affirmations lies the ancient and
sacred practice of meditation. Some form of meditation is prac-
ticed in every major world religion. Yogis, Christian mystics, Zen
Buddhists, Quakers, practitioners of the Kabbala, and Secular
Humanists, all experience the benefits of meditation. The Zen
Alarm Clock is an “accoutrement to meditation.” It can be used
in a variety of ways to aid your practice and encourage you to
“make time” to meditate.
1. The Meditative State
Although there are many forms and theories of meditation, two
basic approaches emerge. These two basic types of meditation
can be characterized as “meditation with form” and “meditation
without form.” In meditation with form, the practitioner focuses
on contacting his or her Higher Self, or communing with
Affirmations
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matter how you use it, the sonic clarity of the chime provides an
appropriate conclusion to your stillness.
3. Meditating on the Chime
The Zen Alarm Clock can also be more actively incorporated into
your meditation practice as a form of “mantra” or “yantra.”
Mantra is a sanskrit word which means “mental protection.” In
Eastern meditation traditions, a mantra takes the form of a word
or sound which is chanted to occupy the mind and keep disturb-
ing thoughts from distracting the meditator. A yantra is used in
Eastern meditation traditions as an image upon which the medita-
tor concentrates until it “disappears.” The chime can be used as a
sort of external mantra or sonic yantra. The chime functions as a
mantra as its sound repeats, bringing the meditator back to the
focal point of concentration. The chime functions as a yantra as
the meditator listens to the resonant sine wave gradually dissi-
pate.
Bells and chimes are used in both Eastern and Western medita-
tion traditions. In the Christian monastic tradition, the ringing of
the bell during meditation reminds the practitioners to return to
the object of worship. Zen monks have used the gong to begin
Meditation
Divinity. Meditation with form can also involve creative imagery
and visualization. Meditation without form concerns going
beyond thought into emptiness––transcending the ego-self. But
no matter which type of meditation you choose to practice, medi-
tation is more than simply entering into a dream-like or alpha
state. In the practice of meditation you will inevitably progress
through a series of developmental stages as you become more
adept at journeying deeper within yourself.
2. Using the Chime to End Your Meditation
The first and most basic use of the Zen Alarm Clock in your med-
itation practice is as a signal of the end of your allotted meditation
time. If you want to meditate for 20 minutes, simply set the alarm
20 minutes into the future and begin your meditation. When the
first chime strikes you can choose to end there or continue your
meditation for about three and a half minutes until the next
chime, or even longer. Many meditators find that a “three and a
half minute warning” is a perfect interval in which to gradually
conclude their longer meditations. The first chime signals the
final phase of the meditation and the second chime its conclusion.
The beauty of the chime is that it compliments rather than dis-
turbs the meditative state while acting as an effective timer. No
Meditation
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Further Reading:
Fontana, David The Meditator’s Handbook: A comprehensive guide to
Eastern and Western meditation Techniques. Rockport, MA: Element,
Inc. 1992.
Wilber, Engler & Brown Transformations of Consciousness:
Conventional and Contemplative Perspectives on Development. Boston:
Shambhala Publications, Inc. 1986.
Trungpa, Chogyam The Path is the Goal: A basic handbook of Buddhist
meditation. Boston: Shambhala 1995.
Enomiya-Lassalle, Hugo M. The Practice of Zen Meditation. San
Francisco: HarperCollins 1992.
Sri Chinmoy Meditation: man-perfection in God-satisfaction. Jamaica,
NY: Aum Publications 1989.
Brooke, Avery Learning and Teaching Christian Meditation. Boston:
Cowley Publications 1990.
Leichtman & Japikse Active Meditation: The Western Tradition.
Columbus, OH: Ariel Press 1982.
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their meditations and during meditation to bring them out of their
mental processes back to the stillpoint of emptiness.
The 10 minute cycle of the chime’s progression can thus be used
as a guided meditation wherein the chime acts as a focal point of
concentration. The progression of the chime can carry the medi-
tator on a journey of self-discovery. As the frequency of the
chime’s sounding increases over the 10 minute cycle, the medita-
tor is invited into deeper states of stillness.
To begin a 10 minute cycle of meditation using the chime, turn the
switch to the “On” position and move the alarm hand in line with
the hour hand until you hear a faint click. In a few seconds, the
first strike of the chime will signal the beginning of your medita-
tion. For a softer chime, simply place the clock some distance
from you.
Meditation Meditation
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next. Business meetings, counseling sessions, and even social
lunches have a way of running on. It is often difficult to play the
role of “meeting police,” interrupting someone in mid-thought.
The buzzing of an ordinary alarm clock or watch is also an inap-
propriately abrupt end. If you shut off the alarm, the meeting
continues; if you let the alarm ring, the meeting does not have a
chance to conclude gracefully.
The Zen Alarm Clock’s progressive chime provides a gentle signal
that only a few minutes remain and that it is time to conclude.
Those who are oblivious to the time, however, will not be able to
ignore the gradually increasing frequency of the chime. Few
meetings can continue in the face of a chime every 4.7 seconds!
The next section suggests some specific applications for this tech-
nique of social engineering.
2. Progressive Chime Applications
When the clock will be used as a signal for a meeting’s end, it is a
good idea to begin the meeting by telling the participants about
the clock and how it works. Agreements about a meeting’s con-
clusion are best made at the beginning. The alarm can be set to
begin 5 minutes before the scheduled end so that the first warning
Transitions
V. Graceful Social Transitions and
the Zen Alarm Clock
In addition to the personal and contemplative uses described
above, the Zen Alarm Clock can be used as a progressively per-
sistent, yet gentle way to bring people together and to disperse
them when their time together is over.
1. Being Here Now & Being On Time
To be fully present with another person, you cannot be thinking
about where you have to be next. Checking your watch during a
conversation or discussion can appear rude and impatient.
However, if you have made an agreement to be at a certain place
at a certain time, breaking that agreement is also “bad form.” In
our modern society, considerate people are often faced with the
dilemma of being “fully with” the person who is in their presence
and also being on time for the person they have agreed to see
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VI. The Zen Alarm Clock’s Design Principles
The Zen Alarm Clock has been designed according to principles
of universe harmony. Some of the esoteric design principles shall
remain the secret of the Clock’s creator. Others are discussed
below.
1. The Chime’s Pythagorean Tuning
The Zen Alarm Clock’s chime sounds an “E” note which has been
tuned according to the method developed by the ancient Greek
master Pythagoras. The Clock’s E note, however, vibrates at a
different frequency than its equivalent note on a modern piano.
Modern tuning methods facilitate musical composition, but they
compromise the enchanting and therapeutic quality—the puri-
ty—of the naturally occurring tones discovered by Pythagoras.
As a result of its “natural” tuning, the Zen Alarm Clock’s tone
reflects the vibrations of nature—the motion of the planets and
the frequencies of life. Studies indicate that certain sounds can
actually stimulate our nervous systems and charge our brains.
chime does not break the flow too early. The more frequent
chimes occurring at the end of the clock’s 10 minute cycle will
thus only be heard if the meeting runs late.
The Zen Alarm Clock’s progressive chime is also useful to call
meetings to order. When a meeting involves many people, getting
started on time is often a problem. People need time to conclude
their preliminary greetings and conversations and take their seats.
A gradually increasing 10 minute “call to order” is a perfect way
to begin meetings on time without making anyone the “bad guy”
who must admonish people to pay attention. For use in calling a
group to order, the clock is most effective when attendees have
advance notice of the purpose of the chiming clock. Whether you
are calling your family to the dinner table or beginning a church
service, the Zen Alarm Clock provides a lovely way to begin and
to end.
Transitions
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31
Gregorian chants, for example, have been shown to energize the
brains of both the chanting monks as well as those who listen to
the chants. Because of its Pythagorean tuning, the Zen Alarm
Clock’s chime may produce a subtle charging effect on your mind.
2. The Chime’s Golden Mean Progression
The Zen Alarm Clock’s progressive chiming takes place over
about 10 minutes. This progression is measured from the first
strike of the chime until the clock reaches its final cycle of contin-
uous chiming, about every 5 seconds. The sequence of chime
strikes within this 10 minute cycle is designed to approximate the
“Golden Mean.” The Golden Mean, also known as the “Divine
Proportion,” is a special relationship between any given whole
and a specific part thereof. Nature uses the Golden Mean as its
formula for creation.
The simplest expression of the Golden Mean is in the division of a
line: A line with a given length is divided into a small part and a
large part. The relationship of the small segment of the line to the
large segment of the line is in the same proportion as the relation-
ship of the large segment to the line as a whole.
30
The Golden Mean has been used since ancient times by artists,
architects and designers to express harmony and balance. The
beauty of the Golden Mean is that all three parts––the small part,
the large part, and the whole––are in perfect proportion with each
other. Nature uses this divine proportion to grow from within
itself. Golden Mean relationships are everywhere in
nature––from the human body to the solar system. The progres-
sive sequence of the Zen Alarm Clock’s chime expresses the
Golden Mean by dividing the 10 minute time “line” into smaller
and smaller Golden Mean ratios. The first chime divides the line
at 3 minutes and 27 seconds. The next chime divides the large
part of the original division (the remaining 6 and a half minutes of
the 10 minute cycle) by the same ratio. The process continues as
illustrated on the following page:
1. 1.61803...
whole
large part
large part
small part Golden
mean
==
Design Principles Design Principles
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Further Reading:
Livio, Mario. The Golden Ratio: The Story of Phi, the World’s Most
Astonishing Number. New York, Broadway Books, 2003
McIntosh, Stephen Ian. The Golden Mean Book.
Boulder, CO: Now & Zen, Inc. 1997 (available on now-zen.com)
Goldman, Jonathan Healing Sounds: The Power of Harmonics.
Rockport, MA: Element, 1992
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32
The interval between chime strikes thus diminishes from within
itself according to the Golden Mean.
The self-accumulating growth which is the essence of the Golden
Mean finds its most elegant natural expression in a “golden spi-
ral.” A golden spiral is one which grows narrower as it turns
inward. Nautilus shells, galaxies, whirlpools, and even your fist
are examples of golden spirals. The progression of the Zen Alarm
Clock’s chime forms an audible golden spiral. The clock thus
echoes nature’s expression of divine harmony as it provides for a
progressive awakening.
Design Principles
1st 2nd ...
..Chime Chime
Design Principles
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Adjust the Chime for the Best Sound
Your Zen Alarm Clock is like an acoustic musical instrument.
You may have to adjust its sound to your taste. Adjust the chime
by firmly scooting the chime bar up or down on the string. The
idea is to move the chime directly in front of the striker tip. To
check the position of the striker and the chime, pick up the clock
and hold it face down, then look at the chime from the side in pro-
file so you can see the striker sticking out. Then move the chime
into position by firmly pulling it up or down on the string (as
shown in diagram) so that the striker hits the chime squarely—
shown in profile like this: -O.
Instructions
VII. Instructions and Technical Considerations
Operating Instructions
1. Install 4 new “C” size alkaline batteries (any brand will
work). However, please do not use “titanium” or “heavy
duty” batteries, we recommend Duracell brand batteries.
2. Turn the On/Off switch on the back to the Off position.
3. Set the time and move the alarm hand counterclockwise
until it clicks upon reaching the hour hand.
4. Slide the On/Off switch to the On position and listen to
the first strike of the chime. The next strike will occur in
3-1/2 minutes as shown in the graph on page 32.
You may hear the first chime strike again by turning the On/Off
switch to the Off position for 2 seconds then back to “On.” The
first chime may appear soft but as the chimes increase in frequen-
cy over the next 10 minutes you will find yourself gradually
awakened.
CHIME
After testing the chime strike you may want to adjust the chime
bar for the best sound by moving one end of the chime bar up or
down, and then then other end until the chime bar is directly in
front of the striker tip.
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ed to the optimal position such that the striker contacts the alloy
bar squarely when it strikes. Never use excessive force when han-
dling your clock. If your clock stops working, or the chime grows
weak, try replacing the batteries.
IF THE ALARM DOES NOT STRIKE:
1. Try new alkaline "C" batteries.
2. If you continue to experience problems, call our customer
service department Monday – Friday 8 AM - 5:00 PM
(MST) at: [phone] or, if you are outside the U.S.
call [phone], or send an e-mail to:
[email protected].
Now & Zen Guarantee and Limited Warranty
Your Zen Alarm Clock is guaranteed against mechanical defect for
a period of 12 months from the date of purchase provided the
clock has not been misused. Now & Zen will repair or elect to
replace free of charge any part found to be defective within the
warranty period. If your clock breaks during the warranty period,
it is your responsibility to ensure it is properly packaged for
return, as any damage suffered in return shipment is not covered
by this warranty. This warranty does not include damage due to
37
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Using the Alarm
To set the alarm, move the knob on the right while looking at the
small alarm hand. Notice the small tick marks at the edge of the
clock dial. These marks help you set the alarm to the desired
time. (The lack of numbers on some dials is for aesthetic rea-
sons.) Once the alarm hand is pointing to the desired alarm time,
turn the switch on the right side of the back of the clock up into
the “On” position. Your alarm is now set.
Care of Your Zen Alarm Clock
The Zen Alarm Clock is designed for indoor use only. Keep it out
of direct sunlight and free from excessive dust, dirt or moisture.
Clean the clock with a dry cloth. Never use detergents, furniture
polishes, or oils on your clock as these liquids may come into con-
tact with the clock’s internal circuitry and cause a malfunction.
Trouble Shooting––Weak Chime Strikes or Malfunctions
The Zen Alarm Clock is like a musical instrument. The chime
must be centered horizontally and vertically in front of the striker
for a strong and clear chime. If your chime makes a clicking
sound, or if the strike seems weak, try moving the chime by scoot-
ing it up or down on the string one side at a time until it is adjust-
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39
dirt, moisture, or negligent handling. This warranty is only valid
when accompanied by a dated proof of purchase and a RETURN
AUTHORIZATION NUMBER, which can be obtained by con-
tacting us as described below.
REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT AS PROVIDED UNDER
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS YOUR EXCLUSIVE REM-
EDY. NOW & ZEN SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES NOR
FOR ANY DAMAGES FOR BREACH OF ANY EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED WARRANTY ON THIS PRODUCT.
For Warranty claims call, e-mail, or write: Now & Zen, Inc.
P.O. Box 110, Boulder, Colorado 80306, [phone],
or [phone], e-mail: [email protected].
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Instructions
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