Polsen ULW-16 User manual

PRODUCT
MANUAL
-16
WIRELESS
SYSTEM
16-CHANNEL
CAMERA-MOUNTABLE UHF

2
16-CHANNEL
CAMERA-MOUNTABLE
UHF WIRELESS SYSTEM
ULW-16
THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING POLSEN.
The Polsen ULW-16 and ULW-16-HL are 16-channel camera-mountable UHF wireless systems
designed to transmit audio more than 100 feet. Engineered to be exceptionally quiet, and with
many professional features like headphone monitoring, line input, and frequency agility, both
systems are ideal for EFP (electronic eld production), ENG (electronic news gathering), DSLR, and
other video applications that can benet from the advantages of a user-friendly wireless system.
With its impressive 105 dB signal-to-noise ratio, the ULW-16 and ULW-16-HL deliver pristine
audio transmission for broadcast-quality recordings. You can choose from 16 channels to avoid
interference. Up to ve systems (or more under optimum conditions) can be used simultaneously
in the same location.
The receiver features a line output and included XLR cable for professional cameras. It also
includes a cable for DSLR and consumer camcorders that have a 1/8” mic input. A headphone jack
and volume control allows you to monitor the transmission signal in real time at a comfortable
volume.
The ULW-16 system includes a transmitter that features a variable-level control that lets you
adjust the transmission level. It’s also equipped with a line input that enables the transmission
of such devices as an audio mixer. The system offers a choice of omnidirectional lavalier
microphones: the 0.20” PL4 lavalier providing exible positioning options, and the 0.14” PL5 mini
lavalier for more discreet microphone placement. Both provide excellent wind and noise rejection.

3
The included windscreen can be used to reduce vocal plosives (pops) and wind noise,
and the mics can be readily placed on a collar, necktie, or costume with the included
tie clip.
The ULW-16-HL system includes a sturdy, broadcast-quality handheld transmitter
ideal for a variety of applications such as news reporting or recording interviews.
It features a mic capsule with a cardioid polar pattern ideal for video applications
where background noise can be problematic such as outdoors, on trade show oors,
or at live events. The channel selector button makes it easy to switch between the
unit’s 16 UHF channels, effectively minimizing frequency interference. An integrated
foam windscreen under the mic grille serves the dual purpose of minimizing vocal
pops and wind noise, and protecting the mic capsule from moisture.
Both systems operate in the UHF 500 MHz bandwidth assuring less susceptibility to
interference than VHF systems and greater reliability at longer distances. Operating
in this bandwidth also ensures that the ULW-16 and ULW-16-HL systems are “future
proof” and meet current and known future FCC regulations.
With features like easy-to read LED indicators, front panel access to batteries, and
included accessories, Polsen’s ULW-16 and ULW-16-HL are designed with the user
in mind. Professionals and enthusiasts alike will benet from its ease of operation,
durability, sensible ergonomics, and portability.
Please read and follow these instructions and keep this manual in a safe place.
33
CONTENTS
Introduction................................................ 2-3
Overview...................................................... 4-6
Precautions .....................................................6
Installing Batteries........................................7
Operating Instructions..........................8-10
Mounting ..................................................11-12
Stage Direction and Talent Cueing........ 13
Troubleshooting..................................... 14-17
Specications .........................................18-19
One-Year Limited Warranty.................... 20

4
OVERVIEW
2.
1.
4.
Transmitter Receiver
3.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10. 25.
11.
12.
13.
21.
20.
19.
14.
17.
18.
15.
16.
22.
23.
24.
26.
27.

5
5
Transmitter
1. Level control
2. TX LED
3. Microphone input
4. Antenna
5. Line-level input
6. Channel indicator LED
7. Channel up/down buttons
8. Battery compartment panel
9. Belt clip
10. Charging contacts
11. PL4/PL5 omnidirectional microphone
12. Tie clip
13. Windscreen
Receiver
14. Headphone-level control
15. RF LED
16. Headphone output
17. Antenna
18. Audio output (line level)
19. Channel indicator LED
20.Channel up/down buttons
21. Battery compartment panel
22. Locking wheel
23. Mounting foot
24. 1/4"-20 threaded socket
25. Charging contacts
26. Line to mic attenuator cable
27. Line-level output cable

6
PRECAUTIONS
• Exposure to high sound levels can cause
permanent hearing loss. Avoid listening at high
volumes for extended periods of time.
• Keep this product away from water and any
ammable gases or liquids.
• Handle this product with care.
• Clean this product with only a soft, dry cloth.
• Keep this product away from children.
• Use only parts provided by the manufacturer.
• All photos are for illustrative purposes only..
1. Grille and windscreen
2. Mic capsule
3. Anti-roll ring
4. LCD display
5. Channel indicator
6. Battery use meter
7. Power switch
8. Battery cover
9. Battery compartment
10. Channel selector button
11. Gain level control
12. Antenna
Handheld Transmitter
1.
2.
5.
4.
6.
7.
10.
8. 9.
11.
12.
3.

7
INSTALLING BATTERIES
The transmitter, receiver, and handheld transmitter are each powered by two AA batteries (not included). To install the batteries,
follow these steps:
Transmitter and Receiver
1. Make sure the unit is turned off by rotating the control knob to the OFF position.
2. Gently squeeze the battery compartment panel by the arrows on both sides
and pull out to swing the panel open.
3. Insert fresh batteries in the proper orientations.
4. Close the panel completely so it locks into place.
Tip: You can use rechargeable AA batteries with the receiver and transmitter and recharge them by inserting them into the Polsen
ULW-BBCH charger (sold separately). Use only rechargeable batteries with the charger. Do not attempt to charge standard batteries
– this may result in damage to the unit and void the warranty.
Handheld Transmitter
1. Unscrew the battery compartment cover exposing the battery
compartment.
2. Insert fresh batteries according to the orientation diagram inside the
compartment.
3. Replace the battery cover by screwing it rmly back into place.

8
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Before you connect the system to your camera and talent, you should test and set initial parameters as detailed below:
Test for interference
1. Test your RF environment before recording. To do this turn on only the receiver. If the RF LED is illuminated, then there is
interference on this channel. Change the channel and repeat until you nd a channel that is free of interference.
Connect transmitter and receiver
ULW-16
1. Connect the included lavalier microphone to the transmitter’s microphone input or plug in a line-level source such as an audio
mixer to the transmitter’s line-level input.
Note: If you are connecting the receiver to a sound system, mute the sound system. Do not monitor with headphones at this stage.
Anytime you are changing channels, remove your headphones and mute connected sound systems to avoid audible RF noise bursts.
2. Turn on the transmitter and the receiver by rotating the level controls clockwise. You should feel the click and see the channel
indicator LED light up.
3. Use the channel selector buttons to set the transmitter and receiver to the same channel. If you are experiencing interference or
noise on one channel, try a different channel. If you are using multiple ULW-16 wireless systems, make sure each system is set
to a different channel – at least three channels apart as a guard band.

9
4. With the headphone volume set to a low level, plug in an earpiece or headphones to the receiver and gradually raise the level to
a comfortable volume for monitoring the transmission.
5. Gradually turn up the transmitter’s level control and make sure a sufcient level is being transmitted to the receiver. Setting to
the level target mark will generally ensure a good signal. The objective is to transmit the highest possible level without distortion
for the best signal-to-noise ratio throughout the signal path.
ULW-16-HL
1. Turn on the handheld transmitter by moving the power switch to the ON position. The LCD display will illuminate showing the
selected channel and battery icon.
Note: If you are connecting the receiver to a sound system, mute the sound system. Do not monitor with headphones at this
stage. Anytime you are changing channels, remove your headphones and mute connected sound systems to avoid audible RF
noise bursts.
2. Set the handheld transmitter and the receiver to the same channel. If you are
experiencing interference or noise on one channel, try a different channel.
To select the channel on the ULW-16-HHT, follow these steps:
a. Remove the battery compartment cover.
b. Press and hold the SELECT button. The channel indicator on the LCD
display will begin to blink.

10
c. Change the channel with short presses of the SELECT button until the desired channel is selected. The channel indicator will
continue to blink for 10 seconds and then stop indicating that the channel has been selected.
d. Replace the battery compartment cover.
Note: If you are using multiple ULW-16 or ULW-16-HL wireless systems, make sure each system is set to a different channel—at
least three channels apart as a guard band.
3. With the headphone volume set to a low level, plug an earpiece or headphones into the receiver and gradually raise the level to
a comfortable volume for monitoring the transmission.
4. Adjust the audio output level on the receiver or the input level on your input device as necessary to make sure a sufcient level
is being recorded. The objective is to transmit the highest possible level without distortion for the best signal-to-noise ratio
throughout the signal path.
Important: It is not recommended to adjust the gain setting of the handheld transmitter. The gain is factory preset to the ideal
setting. Any volume adjustments should be made on the receiver or on the input device.
5. Once you have determined that the transmission quality and level are good,
mount the receiver.
Note:When holding the ULW-16-HHT handheld transmitter, hold it in the middle
of the transmitter body, not at the end where the antenna is located. Covering the
antenna with your hand will degrade the transmission quality.

11
MOUNTING
Once you have determined that the transmission quality and level are good, mount the receiver and transmitter.
Receiver
1. Loosen the receiver’s locking wheel and slide the mounting foot all the way into
your camera’s shoe. Make sure to position the receiver so the antenna doesn’t
enter your image frame.
2. Tighten the locking wheel until secure.
3. If your camera has an XLR line-level input, use the included line-level
output cable to connect to your camera.
If your camera has a 1/8” microphone input, use the included line-to-mic
attenuator to connect to your camera.
Note:Make sure the camera end of the cable is plugged into your camera, and the line-level end of the cable is plugged into
the receiver.
4. Adjust your camera’s input for the sufcient recording level. For more information on how to do this, consult your camera’s
instruction manual.

12
Transmitter (ULW-16 only)
1. Use the integrated belt clip to secure the transmitter to your talent. Use the included tie clip to place the microphone on your
talent.
2. If you are connecting to a line-level source, use an appropriate cable to connect to the mono 3.5 mm jack.
Note:The line-level input overrides the microphone input.
The transmitter’s TX LED will glow red when the unit is transmitting, and the receiver’s RF LED will glow red when the unit is
receiving a strong radio frequency signal.
You can monitor the transmission by plugging headphones into the receiver’s headphone output. This allows you to monitor in real
time without the latency that often occurs when monitoring via a camera’s headphone output.
The receiver’s audio output can be connected to an audio recorder for remote eld-recording or to a PA system for live sound
presentations.

13
STAGE DIRECTION AND TALENT CUEING
The ULW-16 can also be used as an impromptu one-way voice communication system for stage directions and talent cueing. In this
case, your talent will operate the receiver instead of the transmitter, and monitor via an earphone (not included) plugged into the
headphone output. The offstage instructor can dictate directions into the microphone/transmitter unit from a remote location, or
send the cues from a broadcast mixer or IFB system via the line input on the transmitter.

14
TROUBLESHOOTING
Because of the widespread use of wireless technology, many RF signals pervade our environment. This can sometimes make it
challenging to work with a wireless system like the ULW-16. In some cases, you may be doing everything correctly and still be
experiencing some difculties. Included in this troubleshooting guide are some tools and tips for dealing with RF signals and interference.
Problem Possible Cause Solution Comment
The audio
is noisy or
distorted. This
can include
drop outs, white
noise, bursts,
pops, and clicks.
RF interference Try a different channel. Make sure both units are on
the same channel.
Try to position the antennas at a 45°angle in relation
to each other.
There can be a lot of RF interference outdoors. Try
moving indoors, where there is less RF interference.
Keep the units’ antennas at least 2' (0.6 m) away
from conductive objects like metal and water.
Overhead telephone lines, uorescent lighting, and
metal fences can all cause interference.
Turn off all nearby computers and mobile phones.
RF planning and management is important when
using a UHF system. Test your RF environment
before recording. To do this, turn on only the
receiver. If there is noise or the RF LED is glowing,
then there is interference on this channel and you
should avoid using it.
Refer to www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/audio/tvq.html to
nd out what frequencies are being used in your
area by radio and TV stations, so you can avoid
these frequencies.
Receiver overload If the antennas are too close, it can cause receiver
overload (intermodulation). Make sure the antennas
are at least 3' (0.9 m) away from each other.

15
Problem Possible Cause Solution Comment
The audio
is noisy or
distorted. This
can include
drop outs, white
noise, bursts,
pops, and clicks.
The RF signal is
weak.
Make sure there is an unobstructed line of sight between
the receiver’s and the transmitter’s antennas. Keep in mind
that your body, wardrobe, and onstage sets are possible
obstructions.
Make sure the receiver and transmitter are within the 100'
(30.5 m) range.
If there are obstructions you may need to move closer.
When using the ULW-16-HHT handheld transmitter, make sure
you’re holding it in the middle of the body and that your hand
isn’t covering the antenna, located at the end of the transmitter.
If the RF light is blinking, the signal is
not strong enough. Check the audio.
The RF light should consistently glow
red.
The input level
on the camera,
recorder, or mixer
is too high.
Make sure you use the attenuator cable with the line-level side
plugged into the receiver.
Turn down the audio input level on your camera or recording
device.
Make sure the output of the receiver is plugged into the line-
level input on your mixer, or that the line/ mic switch on your
mixer is set to “line.”
Turn down the gain on your mixer.
If there is no adjustment on the device, adjust the microphone
level on the transmitter. Keep this level as high as possible
without distortion.
For general dialog, try to keep the
microphone-level in the target level
mark. Because the talent can adjust
this, make sure he or she is aware
of the receiver and knows not to
change the controls unless instructed
otherwise.
Make note of your level settings before
recording.

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Problem Possible Cause Solution Comment
The audio
is noisy or
distorted. This
can include
drop outs, white
noise, bursts,
pops, and clicks.
The batteries are
weak.
Replace the batteries in the receiver and transmitter
or handheld transmitter.
Make sure to bring extra batteries with you.
You should replace the batteries on every shoot.
Rechargeable batteries will save money over
time and NiCad batteries generally have a longer
performance time.
The unit will not
turn on.
The batteries are
dead.
Replace the batteries in the proper unit. Make sure to bring extra batteries with you.
There is no audio
or the audio is
intermittent.
The batteries in
one of the units
are dead.
Replace the dead batteries in the proper unit. Make sure to bring extra batteries with you.
The audio cable
is unreliable,
or the cable or
microphone is
unplugged.
Check the audio cable to make sure it is reliable and
is not shorting.
Check all cables to make sure they are completely
plugged into the proper inputs.
The line source is
off or not playing
back audio.
If you are transmitting a line-level signal, make sure
there is audio coming out of the line-source device.
The line-level
input overrides the
microphone input.
If you want to record via the microphone input, make
sure there is nothing plugged into the line-level input.

17
Problem Possible Cause Solution Comment
There is no audio
or the audio is
intermittent.
The audio levels
are too low.
Turn up the microphone level on the transmitter. The
target level mark on the transmitter is a good start.
Adjust the headphone level on the receiver and listen
to make sure the signal is transmitting.
Turn up the input levels on your camera, recording
device, or mixer.
The transmitter
and receiver are
set to different
channels.
Make sure the transmitter or handheld transmitter
and receiver are set to the same channel.
One of the units is
not turned on.
Make sure the transmitter, handheld transmitter,
receiver, and all other devices in your audio chain are
turned on and congured to the proper settings.
Too much
ambience is
being picked up.
When using an
omnidirectional
microphone like
the PL-4 or PL-5
included with the
ULW-16 system,
the microphone
may be picking
up too much
ambience.
Make sure the microphone is as close as possible to
the subject.
Approximately 6" (15.2 cm) from the subject is
usually good microphone placement, but you may
need to experiment.

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SPECIFICATIONS
System
FREQUENCY RANGE 584.400 to 602.450 MHz
NUMBER OF CHANNELS 16
FREQUENCY ALLOCATION
CH. 1 584.400 MHz
CH. 2 587.500 MHz
CH. 3 589.575 MHz
CH. 4 591.050 MHz
CH. 5 593.425 MHz
CH. 6 595.200 MHz
CH. 7 598.450 MHz
CH. 8 599.650 MHz
SWITCHING BANDWIDTH 25 MHz
PEAK DEVIATION ±55 kHz
TOTAL HARMONIC DISTORTION <0.8%
OPERATING DISTANCE >100' (30.5 m);300' (91.4 m) in optimum conditions
Transmitter
FREQUENCY RESPONSE 60 Hz to 18 kHz
RF OUTPUT POWER 10 mW
SPURIOUS REJECTION >55 dBc
MAXIMUM INPUT VOLTAGE 1,000 mV
INPUT 1/8" (3.5 mm)
POWER SUPPLY Two AA batteries
OPERATING TIME Approximately 8 hours
DIMENSIONS 4.4" × 2.6" × 1.1"(11.3 ×6.5 × 2.9 cm)
WEIGHT 3.3 oz. (94 g)
Receiver
SENSITIVITY -102 dBm
DYNAMIC RANGE >95 dB
SIGNAL-TO-NOISE RATIO >105 dB (A)
IMAGE REJECTION 56 dB
INPUT 1/8" (3.5 mm) 1 kΩ
POWER SUPPLY Two AA batteries
OPERATING TIME Approximately 8 hours
DIMENSIONS 4.4" × 2.6" × 1.4"(11.3 × 6.5 × 3.5 cm)
WEIGHT 3.5 oz. (100 g)
CH. 9 601.275 MHz
CH. 10 603.775 MHz
CH. 11 605.500 MHz
CH. 12 606.750 MHz
CH. 13 586.025 MHz
CH. 14 590.525 MHz
CH. 15 594.150 MHz
CH. 16 602.450 MHz

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PL-5 Microphone
TRANSDUCER Back electret condenser
POLAR PATTERN Omnidirectional
FREQUENCY RESPONSE 20 Hz to 20 kHz
SENSITIVITY -45 dB ±3 dB, 1.5 V
(open-circuit voltage, at 1 kHz)
IMPEDANCE 1000 Ω
MAXIMUM SPL 135 dB (1% THD at 1 kHz)
OPERATING VOLTAGE 1.5V-12V DC
HEAD DIAMETER 0.14" (3.5 mm)
PL-4 Microphone
TRANSDUCER Back electret condenser
POLAR PATTERN Omnidirectional
FREQUENCY RESPONSE 20 Hz to 20 kHz
SENSITIVITY -45 dB ±3 dB
IMPEDANCE 2000 Ω
MAXIMUM SPL 135 dB
OPERATING VOLTAGE 1.5V-12V DC
HEAD DIAMETER 0.20" (5.0 mm)
Handheld Transmitter
TRANSDUCER Dynamic
POLAR PATTERN Cardioid (Unidirectional)
FREQUENCY RESPONSE 60 Hz ~ 18 kHz
RF OUTPUT POWER 10 mW
SPURIOUS REJECTION >55 dBc
SIGNAL-TO-NOISE RATIO 102 dB
THD <1%
MAX INPUT VOLTAGE 1000 mW
POWER SUPPLY Two AA batteries
OPERATING TIME Approximately 8 hours
DIMENSIONS (H ×W ×L) 2.1” × 2” × 10”
(5.3 ×5.1 × 25.4 cm)
WEIGHT (WITH BATTERIES) 15.2 oz (431 g)
WEIGHT (WITHOUT BATTERIES) 13.6 oz. (385 g)

ONE-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
This Polsen product is warranted to the original purchaser to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal
consumer use for a period of one (1) year from the original purchase date or thirty (30) days after replacement, whichever occurs
later. The warranty provider’s responsibility with respect to this limited warranty shall be limited solely to repair or replacement,
at the provider’s discretion, of any product that fails during normal use of this product in its intended manner and in its intended
environment. Inoperability of the product or part(s) shall be determined by the warranty provider. If the product has been discontinued,
the warranty provider reserves the right to replace it with a model of equivalent quality and function.
This warranty does not cover damage or defect caused by misuse, neglect, accident, alteration, abuse, improper installation or
maintenance. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED HEREIN, THE WARRANTY PROVIDER MAKES NEITHER ANY EXPRESS WARRANTIES NOR ANY
IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE. This warranty provides you with specic legal rights, and you may also have additional rights that vary from
state to state.
To obtain warranty coverage, contact the Polsen Customer Service Department to obtain a return merchandise authorization (“RMA”)
number, and return the defective product to Polsen along with the RMA number and proof of purchase. Shipment of the defective
product is at the purchaser’s own risk and expense.
For more information or to arrange service, visit www.polsenaudio.com or call Customer Service at 212-594-2353.
Product warranty provided by the Gradus Group.
www.gradusgroup.com
Polsen is a registered trademark of the Gradus Group. © 2014 Gradus Group LLC. All Rights Reserved. GG4