Kapsys Kapten Plus

Kapsys Kapten PLUS Getting Started Guide.

Introduction to the Kapten PLUS and this Guide.

Welcome to Leader Dogs for the Blind’s Getting Started Guide for the Kapsys Kapten PLUS. The Kapten PLUS is a mobile navigation device that uses GPS satellite and digital map data to tell users Where they are, Where they are going and How they can get there (WWH). Its operation is based on voice recognition and vocal interaction. In addition to its small size and sleek design, it includes smart features like current location, route instructions, real-time exploration and virtual map reading functions. It also includes an MP3 player and an FM receiver for your convenience.

The intent of this guide is to make learning how to use the Kapten PLUS’ GPS navigation features as simple as possible. The guide includes instructions on how to use all the basic functions you will need to get started. This basic information will help you to start using your device as quickly as possible.

For your safety and to be more successful using the device, we recommend that you read and follow each lesson in order from beginning to end. It should take one to three days to work through all of the lessons. When you are done, you will be able to:

1. Understand voice recognition software.

2. Give a voice command.

3. Acquire your current whereabouts.

4. Acquire next intersection information.

5. Mark personal places.

6. Create a pedestrian route to a previously marked location.

To become skilled at using the Kapten PLUS, you will need to devote time to practice. This will increase your comfort level and confidence with the device. If you have questions or technical difficulties, follow the steps provided in the Troubleshooting Guide. If the Troubleshooting Guide does not answer your question or help you resolve the issue, contact Leader Dogs for the Blind. Contact information is provided at the end of the Troubleshooting Guide.

Limitations of Use and Safety Instructions.

1. Read instructions carefully before using the device.

2. This product is not waterproof.

3. Handle this device with care. Do not drop it.

4. Do not disassemble this device as it may nullify the guarantee (limited one year) and damage the device, thereby potentially rendering the device unusable.

5. Do not expose the product to extreme temperatures (14° F; 131° F). If the device is exposed to these temperatures, it may not operate normally or acquire satellite signals. If the device is exposed to extreme temperatures for extended periods of time, it may cause permanent damage to the device.

6. Only clean the device with a slightly damp, soft cloth. Using chemical or abrasive products or detergents may damage the device.

7. Use the device responsibly and with common sense. Respect road and orientation and mobility safety rules.

8. Always analyze traffic before following oral instructions and obey pedestrian laws.

9. Listening to the music player at full volume for prolonged periods of time could damage your hearing.

Glossary of Terms.

Below is an alphabetical list of terms that you will come across while using this guide.

1. Clock face: An orientation system using the numerical positions on the face of an analog clock as reference points for locating an item. For example, three o’clock refers to an item located directly (90 degrees) on the right.

2. Digital map data: A street grid map in digital format.

3. FM receiver: Receives radio signals from local radio stations allowing the user to listen to music.

4. Global Positioning System (GPS): A navigation system that utilizes satellites and digital maps to pinpoint the user’s position.

5. GPS receiver: Receives the satellite’s signal.

6. GPS satellite data: Use of latitudinal, longitudinal and altitude coordinates to pinpoint a location.

7. GPS satellite reception: Strength of the signal received from the satellites.

8. Hardware reset: A function performed to reset the software and the components inside the device when it fails to operate normally or does not respond.

9. K-tags: Personal landmarks that the user programs into the Kapten PLUS, such as a bus stop or grandmother’s house.

10. Landmarks: An orientation and mobility term used to describe places a traveler wishes to remember.

11. Menu: A list of items or options from which to choose.

12. MP3: A digital audio player that allows the user to store, organize and listen to audio files such as lectures or music.

13. Micro USB: A connection used for connecting two or more devices. The micro USB is the smallest in size and is located on the white charging cable for the device.

14. Mini USB: A connection used for connecting two or more devices. The mini USB is medium in size and is located on the speaker audio and charging cables.

15. Pedestrian mode: Based on speed of travel; the mode used while walking.

16. Point of Interest (POI): Commercial places which may be of interest to the user, such as restaurants and banks.

17. Segment: A section of street between two intersections.

18. Sleep mode: To save battery power the device automatically turns off the software, but not the device, when there has been no external activity (such as a button press) for five minutes.

19. Standard USB: A connection used for connecting two or more devices. The standard USB is the largest in size and is located on the white charging cable for the device.

20. Tactile skin: A gray silicon cover designed with raised buttons for protection of the device and ease of use.

21. Touch command: Pressing a button.

22. Urban canyon effect: A situation that occurs in locations where tall buildings and overhangs block the satellite signal.

23. USB port: A port compatible with USB cables used for transferring and sharing information between two or more devices.

24. Voice command: A command that is spoken out loud into a microphone.

25. Voice recognition: Technology that allows Kapten PLUS to understand what the user is saying when he/she speaks a command.

26. WWH: A mnemonic used to remember Where am I, Where am I going and How do I get there to maintain orientation.

Contents of the Box.

The box should contain the following items:

1. A Kapten PLUS device with a gray tactile skin.

2. A white cable with a standard USB connector to connect to a computer and a micro USB connector to connect to the Kapten PLUS.

3. A pair of earbuds with a microphone.

4. An amplified external speaker with built-in battery.

5. A black coiled audio mini USB cable. This cable includes a built-in microphone with a button. The mini USB end connects to the speaker and the other end, a stereo jack connector, connects to the Kapten PLUS.

6. A black multi-cable with mini USB, standard USB and stereo jack connectors. The mini USB connects to the speaker and the standard USB connects to a computer.

7. A detachable lanyard.

8. A Kapten PLUS Starting Guide from Kapsys.

Lesson 1. How the Kapten PLUS Works.

The Kapten PLUS is operated using a combination of voice commands and touch commands, or button presses. The device uses voice recognition software, which allows the user to give commands verbally.

A voice command is a command that is spoken out loud into the headset microphone. The voice command may be stated:

1. At the end of a menu.

2. Within the menu, interrupting the menu with a short press on the headset microphone button.

3. Outside of a menu by tapping the microphone button and stating a keyword (keywords are provided in the following lessons).

A touch command (pressing a button) may be used as an alternative to voice commands. A button may be pressed:

1. At the end of a menu

2. Within the menu, interrupting the menu by tapping the desired button.

3. Outside of a menu.

This guide outlines whether to use a voice or touch command as well as when to use the command. You will be directed on how and when to do this within the instructions of each lesson. In addition to this, the Kapten PLUS provides auditory feedback for each touch and voice command given. The auditory feedback varies from a high-pitched beep to a low-pitched thump.

Auditory Confirmation Description.

1. You will hear a click, thump or beep every time you press a button to confirm the button was pressed.

2. You will hear a high-pitched beep when you press the microphone button to confirm the button was pressed.

3. You will hear a low-pitched thump sound if your voice command did not register.

If you have never used a GPS device, you should be aware that they are subject to occasional technical difficulties such as signal interruptions. GPS devices work best when the device has a clear view of the sky. At least four satellites must be in view to receive accurate GPS information. If there are tall buildings in the immediate area, you may not receive optimal signal strength. This is known as an urban canyon effect. Severe weather conditions can also weaken signal strength.

You may come across inaccurate street or point of interest (POI) information if the digital maps are not up-to-date. Also, the addresses provided by a GPS device are always approximate. For example, you may be at 1039 S. Rochester Road, but the device announces you are at 1078 S. Rochester Road. The device correctly locates you on the 1000 block, but the rest of the number is inaccurate. This is due to a government mandate that does not allow the device to be more precise. For the same reason, your device may tell you that you have reached your destination when you are actually next door to your destination.

The Kapten PLUS works best in pedestrian mode with street grid systems. When traveling in a vehicle at higher speeds, information may be less accurate or not available. It does not work in open spaces like bodies of water, parks/forests, parking lots, or the center of college campuses. If you travel in open space environments and need assistance, you should contact a certified orientation and mobility specialist.

Lesson 2. Familiarizing Yourself with the Kapten PLUS.

To orient yourself to the Kapten PLUS, place the buttons facing up towards the sky. The unit is correctly positioned when a single round button, about the size of a pea, is located at six o’clock.

Preparation.

To complete this lesson, you will need:

1. The Kapten PLUS, external speaker or earbuds, charging and audio cables for the device and speaker, and the lanyard.

Instructions.

Top Edge.

1. You will feel two holes along the edge.

2. In the left-hand corner is the Lock/Unlock switch. The switch is in the locked position when it is positioned to the right. The switch is in the unlocked position when it is positioned to the left. Locking the device prevents accidental button pushes from registering.

3. In the right-hand corner is the charging port. See “Lesson 9: Charging” for more information.

Bottom Edge.

1. This edge is smooth except in the bottom left corner where you will feel a hole.

2. The hole in the bottom left corner is for attaching the lanyard. You can carry the device by using the clip on the back or the lanyard or putting it in a front pocket.

Right Edge.

1. In the top corner are the volume buttons. The button on top is Volume Up. The button on the bottom is Volume Down.

Left Edge.

1. In the bottom corner is the audio port. Either the speaker or earbuds may be plugged into the port using the stereo jack.

Back Side.

1. On this side there is a hinged clip that can be used to clip the Kapten PLUS onto an article of clothing.

Front Side.

There are two key formations on the front of the Kapten PLUS. One is a clock face located on the top half and the other is capital “T” shape located on the bottom half.

1. There are five buttons forming the clock face shape on the top half of the device.

2. At twelve o’clock is the Play/Pause button, which is shaped like a triangle pointed at a vertical line. Tapping this button will start or pause the current selection.

3. At three o’clock is the Forward button, which is shaped like a triangle pointing to the right. Tapping this button announces the next item or option.

4. At six o’clock is the Stop button, which is shaped like a square. Tapping this button when the device is off will turn it on. Tapping this button while the device is on will stop the current function. The Stop button can be used to cancel any function at any time. If you push and hold this button while the device is on, it will turn off.

5. At nine o’clock is the Rewind button, which is shaped like a triangle pointing to the left. Tapping this button will announce the previous item or option. Pushing and holding this button will announce the previous menu.

6. In the center of the clock face is the K button, which is shaped like a stick figure running. Tapping this button provides your current GPS position (if you are outside with a GPS signal) or selects the current item or option. Pressing and holding this button will create a K-tag.

7. On the bottom half of the device are four buttons that form a capital “T” shape.

8. At six o’clock is a small round button about the size of a pea called the Free Navigation button. It will activate or deactivate free navigation mode.

9. Above the Free Navigation button is a row of three small buttons that form the top of the “T.”

10. The button farthest left is shaped like a diamond and is the MP3 button. It will activate the MP3 player.

11. The button directly above the Free Navigation button is shaped like a triangle and is the GPS button. It will activate the navigation modes.