Slinger Pickleball User manual

Pickleball
Slinger Bag & Oscillator User Manual
Designed and Developed by Slinger®.
Patent Pending.
Covered by International Patent Applications
2709 N. Rolling Road Suite 138 Windsor Mill 21244 MD USA
UPDATED 07 FEBRUARY 2023 © Slinger Bag 2023 Patents Pending

I am Mike. CEO of Slinger®.
I have been involved in racquet sports all of my life, from playing and coaching to running
businesses. I know the challenge our sport faces in terms of keeping people playing and bringing in
new players to the sport. The majority of people who leave the sport do so because they lack a
consistent and quality playing partner. Slinger is solving this problem for the sport. We have put in
thousands of hours of design, prototyping and testing into the Slinger Bag, taking Joe's idea and
building a next-generation Pickleball ball launcher.
Thank you for supporting Slinger®. Designed by Players for Players.
Mike Ballardie
CEO
I am Joe. Founder of Slinger®.
Like you, Racquet sports are a huge part of my life. I constantly found myself challenged to find the
right playing partners, so I would use my club's ball machine. It was a pain having to learn how to
use it, drag it out of its storage, and plug it in and set it up each time. I figured there was a better
way to do this, and this is how the Slinger Bag was born. A lightweight, transportable, versatile and
affordable ball launcher for Pickleball. Not only that, but I wanted something to store all of my
Pickleball gear in one place, too. I hope you enjoy your Slinger as much as I do.
Thank you for being on this journey with me.
Joe Kalfa
Founder
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Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023

QUICK START
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Quick Access Links
CLICK ON THE ICONS BELOW FOR DIRECT ACCESS TO YOUR AREA OF INTEREST
WARRANTY
26
SAFETY
7
COMPLIANCE
29
GETTING STARTED
11
LAUNCHER CONTROLS
18
REMOTE CONTROL
21
LED INDICATORS
15
COURT PLACEMENT
22
TROUBLESHOOTING
& MAINTENANCE
23
BATTERY
12
ELEVATION KNOB
20
FEATURES
8
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Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023

Only after the battery has been initially charged for up to 5 hours as indicated on Page 12 is the
Slinger Bag ready to be used on court.
Please follow these quick start operating guidelines
1. Position Slinger Bag on the court in your desired launching position. See our suggested positions
based on level of play on pages 22 & 23.
2. Open / Unzip the lower front panel in order to display the Ball Launcher.
3. Open / Unzip the top ball feeder panel. Make sure that nothing is obstructing the ball feeder. If all
is clear load up to a recommended maximum of 120 pickleballs.
4. On the front control panel adjust the control knobs to set the desired BALL SPEED, BALL FEED and
BALL SPIN. See our suggested positions based on level of play on pages 22 & 23.
On the right bottom side of the launcher (as you look at it) unzip the elevation control knob cover.
Adjust the elevation control knob to your desired launching angle - between 10º and 40º. See our
suggested positions based on level of play on pages 22 & 23.
5. Turn ‘ON’ the Launcher power switch on the front control panel.
6. With all of the controls set up, take the remote control and proceed to your playing position.
7. Point the remote control at the Launcher and press the top “On/Off” pickleball icon button once in
order to activate the ball feeder mechanism.
8. START PLAYING!
USER NOTE
Hook the open door panel on to the side of the Trolley Bag using the clip provided
on the left rear side as you look at the launcher.
QUICK START SLINGER BAG ONLY (NO OSCILLATOR)
USER NOTE
Slinger advises that the optimum ball launcher operation is achieved with 72
pickleballs.
USER NOTE
You will hear a single “beep” to signal that the launcher wheel has started. After 10
seconds you will hear a second “beep” signalling that the feeder plate is rotating and
the balls are about to commence launching.
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Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023

Only after the battery has been initially charged for up to 5 hours as indicated on Page 12 is the
Slinger Bag ready to be used on court.
Please follow these quick start operating guidelines
1. Position Slinger Bag on the court in your desired launching position. See our suggested positions
based on level of play on pages 22 & 23..
2. Make sure that the Slinger® logo on the top of the Oscillator is facing forwards to the net and the
wheel location slots are positioned at the rear.
3. Position Slinger Bag onto the top of the Oscillator making sure that the wheels are correctly
located into the wheel slots provided on the Oscillator base.
4. Open the lower front panel to display the ball launcher.
5. Open the top ball feeder panel. Make sure that nothing is obstructing the ball feeder. If all is clear
load up to a maximum of our recommended 120 pickleballs.
6. On the front control panel adjust the control knobs to set the desired BALL SPEED, BALL FEED and
BALL SPIN. See our suggested positions based on level of play on pages 22 & 23..
QUICK START LAUNCHER WITH THE OSCILLATOR
USER NOTE
Hook the open door panel on to the side of the Trolley Bag using the clip provided
on the left rear side as you look at the launcher.
USER NOTE
Ensure that the Oscillator is positioned in its central (mid) location. This is the ideal
starting position to obtain optimum Oscillation performance.
USER NOTE
Slinger advises that the optimum ball launcher operation is achieved with 72
pickleballs.
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Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023

7. On the right bottom side of the launcher (as you look at it) unzip the elevation control knob cover.
Adjust the elevation control knob to your desired launching angle - between 10º and 40º. See our
suggested positions based on level of play on pages 22 & 23..
8. Now turn ‘on’ the Launcher power switch.
9. Connect the Oscillator cable via the magnetic connector to the corresponding position on the
Launcher control panel. You will see a GREEN LED indicator come on above the oscillator
connector socket to indicate the Oscillator is connected.
10. With all of the controls set up, take the remote control and proceed to your playing position.
11. Point the remote control at the Launcher and press the top “On/Off” pickleball icon button once
in order to activate the ball feeder mechanism and press the bottom “On/Off” Oscillator icon
button in order to activate the Oscillator.
12. START PLAYING!
QUICK START LAUNCHER WITH THE OSCILLATOR
USER NOTE
After adjusting the elevation Knob please ensure that it is fully tightened before
starting the Launcher.
USER NOTE
You will hear a single “beep” to signal that the launcher wheel has started. After 10
seconds you will hear a second “beep” signalling that the feeder plate is rotating and
the balls are about to commence launching.
6
IMPORTANT
It is highly recommended to always operate the Slinger Bag using the provided
remote control for safety reasons. Please make sure not to misplace the remote.
In exceptional circumstances, such as if the remote is lost, refer to page 19 for
instructions on operating the launcher without the remote control.
Please ensure that the power is switched to “OFF” and unplugged from any electrical
connection before attempting any activity which involves reaching into the launcher
mechanism for any reason including for maintenance or cleaning.
Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023

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•Reach into the ball launching exit chute when the power is “ON”
•Look into the ball launching exit chute when the power is “ON”
•Stand directly in front of the ball launching exit chute at any time when the power is “ON”
•Insert any foreign objects of any kind into the ball hopper while the power is “ON”
•Use the Launcher in wet conditions or when rain is on courts or where water has collected.
AT ALL TIMES THE USER MUST NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES:
PLEASE READ ALL USER INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USE
WARNING
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, fire, injury to persons, and other damage
when using this product, please follow these basic safety precautions.
1. To protect against the risk of electrical shock, never immerse any part of this launcher in water
or any other liquid.
2. Close supervision is necessary when operating this launcher near children.
3. Never walk in front of this launcher when it is operating. Pickleballs leave the launcher at high
speeds and could cause serious injury.
4. Always stand to the side, or behind the launcher when attempting to alter the settings of the
various controls.
5. If it is necessary to free a jammed pickleball, make sure that the launcher is turned “OFF”.
6. Always wear protective eye-wear when attempting any repairs or adjustments on this Launcher.
7. Never attempt any repairs of adjustments on this launcher when it is plugged in. Always turn the
power switch OFF and make sure the charger is not connected to any wall socket.
8. This launcher is intended for launching pickleballs only. Never attempt to use this launcher with
any other type of ball or any foreign object whatsoever.
9. Always make sure that the launcher is turned offon the control panel when not in use and when
the battery is being charged. Never place your hands or any other part of your body near moving
parts, especially the ball feeder plate and the launching wheel. Please be aware that the
launching wheel continues to spin at high speed for several minutes after the launcher is
switched offand can cause injury or burns if coming in contact with your hands.
Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023

The Slinger Bag operates to its optimum level when using standard sized pickleballs. Please avoid using
either old or damaged pickleballs as this will reduce performance of the Launcher.
The Slinger Bag is designed for use by pickleball players of all ages and abilities.
The Slinger Bag weighs 19kg or 42 lbs (excluding pickleballs). It is one of the lightest performance ball
launchers of its kind on the market. The trolley bag is versatile and functional and can carry all your
pickleball equipment. The launcher can be set up and ready to use in minutes.
The Slinger Bag ball speeds ranges from the Ball Boy low speed of 10mph/16kmph to an advanced
player speed of 45mph / 73kmph.
The Slinger Bag features include:
•Smart-enabled pickleball trolley bag with a variety of functional pockets.
•Variable ball feed rate between 2 and 7 seconds.
•Variable Spin function ranging from underspin, to flat to topspin settings.
•120 pickleball capacity ball hopper.
•Lithium Ion battery.
•A multi-country, multi-voltage smart, fast charger. When the battery is fully charged the power is
automatically reduced to an occasional smart ‘pulse” to protect the life span of the battery.
•Integrated USB charger for mobile/cell phone charging.
•A remote control to operate both the Launcher and the Oscillator remotely with “On” and “Off” control
ONLY.
•An elevation bar offers between 10 and 40 degrees of ball elevation.
•The Slinger Oscillator (Oscillator is sold separately or in a bundle) is designed to house the Slinger Bag
sitting on top of it and provides side-to-side oscillation of the Slinger Bag.
USER NOTE
Slinger recommends using 72 balls for optimum performance.
USER NOTE
Battery Life depends on usage. If used on low settings including Oscillation then
the battery life is up to 3 hours and this reduces to 1.5hrs when used at maximum
speed, feed and oscillation including cell phone charging.
USER NOTE
It is advised to (a) charge the battery outside of the bag when possible and (b) not
to charge the battery for more than 5 hours in any charging period.
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SLINGER BAG FEATURES
Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023
USER NOTE
The top speed can only be reached in FLAT mode (and not when spin knob is set to
either TOP or UNDER spin).

SLINGER BAG AT A GLANCE
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1
2
3
4
5
7
10
8
5
11
12
13
14
15
17
16
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Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023
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SLINGER BAG AT A GLANCE
1. EXTENDABLE !
TROLLEY HANDLE
2. CLIP ON CAMERA !
HOLDER
3. SIDE POCKET TO!
STORE REMOTE
4. BALL LAUNCHER !
PROTECTIVE COVER
5. SLINGER !
OSCILLATOR *
6. BALL HOPPER!
POCKET
7. LITHIUM ION !
BATTERY DRAWER
8. LAUNCHER GRAB!
HANDLE
9. SMART POWER !
CABLE CHARGER!
(WITH 4 SOCKET ADAPTERS)
10. BALL LAUNCHER !
CONTROL PANEL
11. TELESCOPE BALL!
TUBE *
12. LARGE STORAGE!
POCKET!
(BRACKETS, EQUIPMENT,
GEAR)
13. BALL FEEDER /!
STORAGE !
COMPARTMENT
14. USB PHONE!
CHARGING PORT!
(LOCATED INSIDE POCKET)
15. ADDITIONAL !
POCKET!
(FOR ADDITIONAL STORAGE)
16. BALL ELEVATION!
KNOB POCKET
17. LAUNCHER SERIAL !
NUMBER !
(LOCATED ABOVE ELEVATION KNOB)
18. BALL FEEDER !
PLATE!
(INSIDE FEEDER POCKET)
19. BATTERY
POWER
CHARGER
20. SLINGER REMOTE!
CONTROL
* Sold separately or in a bundle pack 10
Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023

The following are actions will ensure optimum battery life and performance:
•Please select the correct plug socket adaptor for your region.
•Please ensure that the plug socket selected is correctly fitted to the main charger body and that it
has “clicked“ into place.
•Connect the power cable to a wall power outlet. Please note a GREEN light will now appear on the
charger plug to indicate the power is ‘On’.
•Connect the charger cable to the power outlet on the Launcher control panel.
•If the battery has less than full power then the indicator light on the charger plug will show RED and
charging will take place. The indicator light will turn GREEN when the battery is fully charged and
the power socket should then be removed from the power outlet
•If indicator light remains GREEN then the battery is already fully charged. In this case please
immediately disconnect the battery from the power outlet.
USER NOTE
Please ensure that the power cable is ‘pushed’ fully into the power socket on the
control panel creating a tight connection.
GETTING STARTED
The Slinger Bag lithium battery is shipped to you at a maximum 30% charge in accordance with
federal requirements for shipment of Lithium Batteries.
ASSEMBLING THE CHARGER CABLE
NOTE
The battery will not charge if the plug socket is not correctly fitted.
NOTE
In order to prevent the battery overheating it is not advised to leave the power
outlet connected to the battery for longer than 5 hours in any charging period
NOTE
The Launcher CANNOT be used when connected to the power outlet. This will
irreparably damage the battery.
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Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023

The following are actions will ensure optimum battery life and performance:
•Charge the battery for a period of 5 hours (maximum) before first use to ensure it is fully charged.
•Recharge battery immediately after each use – again for a charging period of no more than 5 hours.
•Do not leave the battery connected to the external power supply for any longer than 5 hours in
order to prevent the battery overheating.
•Do not store the battery for more than 30 days without recharging it to a minimum 30% level.
•Do not store the Slinger Bag Launcher in a closed car trunk or other location where the internal
temperature can reach 100ºF or 40º C. Hot environments speed up battery aging.
•It is best to avoid using your launcher in extremely hot weather or leaving your launcher stored for
long periods in rooms that experience direct sunlight for prolonged periods. The same goes for
cold garages in winter.
•We recommend that you store your Launcher battery at temperatures between 64°F–82°F (18°C–
28°C), away from direct sunlight.
LITHIUM BATTERY
Before using the Launcher for the first time please make sure that the battery is left to charge for a
maximum 5 hour charge period in order to optimize the battery life.
The Slinger battery has up to 3 hours of battery life at average speed and feed settings.
MAXIMIZING THE LIFE OF THE BATTERY
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Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023

To avoid any risk of overheating it is always recommended to charge the Lithium Battery OUTSIDE of
the Slinger Bag. The battery is easily removed in a few seconds as detailed on page 15.
Before going through the battery charging instructions, please take the following into account:
•Connect the battery to an electrical wall socket using the correct socket adapter provided as part of
the charger cable pack.
•Insert the battery charger cable to the charging port on the control panel or if you have removed
the battery from the Launcher, insert the battery charger into the back port on the battery box.
•Charging time should be a MAXIMUM OF 5 HOURS in any charging period
•The battery is best fully charged before the first use.
•There is a light on the charger. When the charger is correctly plugged in, the indicator light will turn
RED and will change to GREEN when the battery is fully charged. If the indicator light is GREEN
please immediately REMOVE the charger from the power outlet to prevent the battery overheating.
•Leaving the battery uncharged for an extended period of time will diminish the battery life.
BATTERY CHARGING INSTRUCTIONS
USER NOTE
For additional, and more detailed information about charging and removing your
battery pack, visit www.slingerbag.com/support.
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Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023

REMOVING YOUR BATTERY PACK
Please follow the 7 steps outlined below:
USER NOTE
For additional, and more detailed information about charging or removing your
battery pack, visit www.slingerbag.com/support.
WARNING
Make sure you switch your Slinger Bag off before removing its battery.
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Unscrew four
screws that fix
battery drawer
by hand.
Disconnect the battery wire
from the launcher
connector.
Slightly remove
the battery
drawer.
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023

BATTERY L.E.D. INDICATORS
The Battery LED lights on the control panel will indicate the current battery power level.
•When all 4 lights are green, it means the battery is fully charged. As the battery power is being
used, the green lights will decrease to 3 green lights, then 2, and finally to 1 green light, indicating
a decreasing battery power level from full to medium to low.
•If only 1 yellow light is present, it indicates that the battery power is now low.
•Finally, if only 1 red light is illuminated, it signals that the battery is in a very low state and needs to
be recharged as soon as possible.
OSCILLATOR L.E.D.
The Oscillator LED INDICATOR is GREEN to indicate that the Oscillator is connected and switched on
after pressing the Oscillator “ON / OFF” button (lower button) on the remote control or activating it
manually.
Oscillator L.E.D
Battery L.E.D.’s Indicator
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Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR BATTERY
1. Can I buy a replacement / spare battery ?
Yes, replacement batteries can be ordered at SlingerBag.com
2. My battery has no power ?
Check battery cable is correctly attached at back of battery (check step 6 on page 7). If the problem
persists please contact [email protected].
3. Storage during Winter months
Store your battery at room temperature to conserve its battery cells.
4. Can I charge my battery outside of the bag ?
Yes, in fact we recommend this method of charging and it allows you to store your battery
separately from your Slinger Bag, protecting the battery from temperature extremes.
5. What should I do with my old battery ?
Slinger products are made from high grade recyclable materials. The battery should be removed
from the launcher before it's disposed of and recycled in accordance with local ordinances or
regulations. If your battery needs replacing please visit www.slingerbag.com to purchase a
replacement.
6. How long is my Slinger Battery life?
Lithium-ion batteries are built to last, with energy and power packed into a small area. Over time,
all batteries are subject to degradation. So if your run time has declined when the launcher is in
regular use, it might be time to buy a new battery.
Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023

CONTROLS
4
3
1
5
7
2
12
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Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023
6
9
10
11
8

1. POWER: The power switch turns the Launcher to “ON”.
2. CHARGER: Although the Slinger Bag control panel offers a charging point, Slinger Bag highly
recommends that the battery is ALWAYS removed and charged OUTSIDE of the Slinger Bag. The
recommended charging time for a fully drained battery is a maximum of 5 hours and the power
should ALWAYS be disconnected when the battery is fully charged.The battery charger plugs into
the charger socket on the front control panel.
3. REMOTE CONTROL RESET: For resetting or replacing the remote control - see “remote control
instructions” on page 24.
4. BATTERY INDICATOR LIGHTS: The battery is fully charged when all 4 LED lights are showing
GREEN.
USER NOTE
The recommended charging time for a fully drained battery is a maximum of 5 hours.
WARNING
Please note that if the ON / OFF switch is switched on then off in rapid succession
there is a risk of causing damage to the electronic control panel.
SLINGER BAG LAUNCHER CONTROLS
USER NOTE
The Remote Control DOES NOT turn the Launcher power on or off. The Remote
Control only operates AFTER the Power Switch on the control panel has been
switched on.
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USER NOTE
During use, the 4 LED green lights will decrease to 3 green lights, then 2, and finally
to 1 green light, indicating a decreasing battery power level from full to medium to
low. If only 1 yellow light is present, it indicates that the battery power is now low.
Finally, if only 1 red light is illuminated, it signals that the battery is in a very low state
and needs to be recharged as soon as possible.
Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023
WARNING
Please ensure that the battery power is disconnected as soon as the battery lights
indicate a full charge and never leave the battery connected to the power source for
long periods to avoid the risk overheating.

5. PICKLEBALL SPEED DIAL: Controls the speed of the pickleballs being fired. The launcher speed
ranges from the lowest speed of 10mph/16kmph to an advanced player speed of 45mph /
73kmph.
6. SPIN RATE DIAL: Controls the spin of the pickleballs. Spin Rate range is -3 (maximum under spin) and
3 (maximum top spin). Point the dial to FLAT for flat balls.
7. FEED RATE DIAL: Controls the feed rate of the balls. Feed Rate range is between 2-7 seconds.
8. LAUNCHER BEEPS (SPEAKER): A series of “BEEP” sounds can be heard when operating the
launcher as follows:
a. Short Beep: When switching the Launcher to ‘ON’ on the control panel.
b. Short Beep: Whenever pressing the Remote Control “ON” or “OFF”.
c. Long Beep: 5 to 10 seconds after pressing the Remote Control launcher button to ‘ON’,
indicating that the feeder plate has started to rotate.
d. Short Beep: Whenever pressing the Remote Control Launcher button to “OFF”.
9. LAUNCHER MANUAL ON/OFF SWITCH: Allows you to operate the launcher manually, in the event
that you have lost or misplaced the remote. To turn ON the launcher, press and hold the button for 3
seconds. To turn it OFF, press the button once.
10. OSCILLATOR* CONNECTOR: Magnetic Plug to connect to the Oscillator cable.
11. OSCILLATOR MANUAL ON/OFF SWITCH: Allows you to operate the oscillator manually, in the event
that you have lost or misplaced the remote. Press the button once to turn oscillator ON and OFF.
12. OSCILLATOR* LED: Indicates when the Oscillator is ‘On’ after pressing the Oscillator remote button
or activating Oscillator manually.
SLINGER BAG LAUNCHER CONTROLS (CONTINUED)
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Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023
IMPORTANT
It is highly recommended to always operate the Slinger Bag using the provided
remote control for safety reasons. Please make sure not to misplace the remote.
In exceptional circumstances, such as if the remote is lost, refer to the above
instructions to operate the launcher without the remote control.
USER NOTE
The top speed can only be reached in FLAT mode (and not when spin knob is set to
either TOP or UNDER spin).

ELEVATION KNOB
The elevation knob gives the user an option to change the launching angle of the ball – the launching
angle ranges between 10 and 40 degrees.
1. Open the side pocket
2. Rotate the knob counterclockwise to release it
3. Adjust the desired angle
4. Rotate the knob clockwise to lock it
USER NOTE
Please ensure that you LOCK the elevation knob tightly in order to avoid vibration
and noise.
1
&
clockwise to lock
Open side pocket
4
counterclockwise
to release
2
3
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Slinger Bag User Guide - Pickleball 2/2023