Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why would I need more than one self defense product?
A: Very simple. It is for the same reason as having more than one telephone at home. Why would anyone need more than one telephone in the same house? It is because when a telephone rings, you usually will have about 10-15 seconds to locate the phone and respond to it. Most people do not want to miss a phone call. It is their priority to answer the phone before the last ring. Therefore, they will place as many telephones as they can afford all over the house. An average middle class family will have one telephone in the living room, one in the kitchen and one in the bedroom. If answering a simple phone call is such a high priority in the house, what about stopping an intruder? You probably will have to locate the self defense weapon within 10-15 seconds or even less. How would you rate that priority? And more importantly, how would you price it? We strongly believe, when it comes to you and your loved ones, safety is priceless.
Q: How do stun guns work?
A: Stun gun uses high voltage and low amperage to temporarily disable an attacker for several minutes. Stun gun does not rely on pain for results. The energy stored in stun gun is dumped into the attacker muscles causing them to do a great deal of work rapidly. This rapid work cycle instantly depletes the attacker blood sugar by converting it to lactic acid. In short, he is unable to produce energy for his muscles, and his body is unable to function properly. Stun gun also interrupts the tiny neurological impulses that control and direct voluntary muscle movement. When the attacker neuromuscular system is overwhelmed and controlled by the stun gun he loses his balance.
When a stun gun touches both probes against the assailant’s body for ½ second, it will startle the assailant, giving him some pain, muscular contraction and shock. For 1-2 seconds, it will cause muscle spasms and a dazed mental state. For 3-5 seconds, it will cause loss of balance and muscle control, total mental confusion and disorientation, leaving him dazed. Under no conditions can you suffer a charge back to your own body, even if the assailant touches you while you are using a stun gun on him.
Q: How does a Taser work?
A: Upon firing, compressed nitrogen projects two Taser probes 15 feet at a speed of 135 feet per second. An electrical signal transmits throughout the region where the probes make contact with the body or clothing. The result is an instant loss of the attacker’s neuromuscular control and any ability to perform coordinated action. Taser uses an automatic timing mechanism to apply the electric charge. The Taser releases an electric current in a pre-set time sequence (an initial seven seconds followed by several 1.8 second breaks for a total time of about 30 seconds in each cycle). This cycle ensures that the nervous system of the target does not recover instantly to allow him to remove the probes. The follow-on bursts disrupt the process of re-equilibration of the nervous system. While the target is disabled, the user can place the device on the ground and escape.
Q: How can the Taser be so effective yet non-injurious?
The Taser does not depend upon impact or body penetration to achieve its effect. Its pulsating electrical output interferes with communication between the brain and the muscular system, resulting in loss of control. However, the Taser is non-destructive to nerves, muscles and other body elements. It simply affects them in their natural mode. More importantly, no deaths have ever been directly attributed to the TASER.
Q: What has testing revealed regarding the Taser?
A: Anesthesiologist and specialist in medical electronics, Dr. Frank Summers, MD of St. Joseph’s Hospital, Orange, California, directed tests of volunteers at St. Joseph’s in 1971 and 1974. Dr. Summers stated, “…We undertook this [volunteer test] in the operating rooms at St. Joseph’s Hospital. We had an assembly of cardiovascular surgeons, cardiologists… we had a real [TASER]. We tested extensively and made movies. The tests were impressive. We monitored all parameters of physiology, including electrocardiographs. The tests did not produce any lethal effects and we found that the background work that had been done did indeed pan out in practice.”
Q: Does the taser affect the heart or can it cause cardiac arrest?
A: The Taser’s output is well below the level established as “safe” by the federal government in approving such devices as the electrified cattle fence. In a medical study of the Model XR 5000Ô electronic stun gun, Dr. Robert Stratbucker of the University of Nebraska Medical Center confirmed that the T-Wave does not interrupt the heartbeat or damage a pacemaker. Any modern pacemaker is designed to withstand electrical defibrillator pulses that are hundreds of times stronger than the Taser’s output. The AIR TASER current of 0.3 joules is well below the 10-50 joule threshold above which cardiac ventricular fibrillation can occur.
Q: Isn’t high voltage lethal?
A: High voltage, in itself, is not dangerous. One can receive a 25,000-volt shock of static electricity from a doorknob on a dry day without harm. The physiological effect of electrical shock is determined by: the current, its duration, and the power source that produces the shock. The typical household current of 110 volts is dangerous because it can pump many amperes of current throughout the body indefinitely. By contrast, the Taser power supply consists of an alkaline 9-Volt battery that is capable of supplying less than three watts of electrical power for a few minutes.
Q: Will the taser cause electrocution?
A: No. The output is metered by the electronics and the electrical energy in each pulse is always the same, regardless of the target condition. The electrical output will not be transferred from one person to another even if they touch. Taser, Inc.’s president has been stunned by an Taser while standing in water to emphasize this point.
Q: What are the after effects?
A: A person hit with an Taser will feel dazed for several minutes. The pulsating electrical output causes involuntary muscle contractions and a resulting sense of vertigo. It can momentarily stun or render an attacker unconscious. Yet, the Taser’s low electrical amperage and short duration of pulsating current, ensures a non-lethal charge. Moreover, it does not cause permanent damage or long-term aftereffects to muscles, nerves or other body functions. A January 1987 Annals of Emergency Medicine study reported TASER technology leaves no long term injuries compared with 50% long term injuries for gun shot injuries.
Q: Must the probes penetrate the body to be effective?
A: No. The electrical current will “jump” up to two inches as long as both probes are attached to clothing or skin. At most, only the 3/8-inch needlepoint will penetrate the skin. They have less energy than a spring propelled BB.
Q: What if the probes miss?
A: The Taser can be used in a touch-stun mode. The user is thus provided with a final backup if the probes miss the target. Should the user miss or engage a second attacker, he can touch the unit directly to the target and it will work like a powerful touch-stun device.
Q: What is the best-shot at maximum range?
A: As long as the spread of the probes is at least six inches, the AIR TASER will be extremely effective. To ensure that the spread is greater than six inches, the Taser should be fired at a target several feet away. The optimum shot is from seven to ten feet away form the target to achieve maximum effect. At seven to ten feet away – the spread of the probes will be approximately 16 inches, ensuring that the target receives the most efficient T-Wave flow.
Q: Does temperature have a detrimental effect on the Taser?
A: No. The Taser utilizes compressed nitrogen (an inert gas). The Taser compressed air capsules have successfully held their charges at temperatures of minus 20º F and up to 160º F. Moreover, altitude will not adversely effect the firing of an Taser. In addition, the temperature will not effect the T-Wave. However, as with any product containing polycarbonates and other thermoplastics, the Taser and Air Cartridges should never be left in direct sunlight.
Q: What is the difference between EMD weapons and Stun weapons?
A: EMD weapons: EMD weapons use a more powerful 18 to 26 watt electrical signal to completely override the central nervous system and directly control the skeletal muscles. This EMD effect causes an uncontrollable contraction of the muscle tissue, allowing the M-Series to physically debilitate a target regardless of pain tolerance or mental focus. The Advanced Taser M-Series are EMD weapons – specifically designed to stop even the most elite, aggressive, focused combatants. Rather than simply interfering with communication between the brain and muscles, the Advanced Taser EMD systems directly tell the muscles what to do: contract until the target is in the fetal position on the ground. The Advanced Taser provides maximum safety for both the officer and the subject by bringing dangerous situations quickly under control before force escalates to lethal levels.Stun weapons: Traditional stun technology weapons operate in a 7 to 14 watt range and interfere with the communication signals within the nervous system of the target. These stun systems primarily effect the sensory nervous system. Like static on the communication lines between the brain and the body, stun systems interfere with the human command and control systems. However, a small percentage of people with a very high tolerance for electrical stimulation can fight through the effect of these 7 to 14 watt systems. The Air Taser 34000 series is a stun weapon using the same settings used by law enforcement for over 20 years.
Q:Why would I need more than one self defense spray?
A: Very simple. It is for the same reason as having more than one telephone at home. Why would anyone need more than one telephone in the same house? It is because when a telephone rings, you usually will have about 10-15 seconds to locate the phone and respond to it. Most people do not want to miss a phone call. It is their priority to answer the phone before the last ring. Therefore, they will place as many telephones as they can afford all over the house. An average middle class family will have one telephone in the living room, one in the kitchen and one in the bedroom. If answering a simple phone call is such a high priority in the house, what about stopping an intruder? You probably will have to locate the self defense weapon within 10-15 seconds or even less. How would you rate that priority? And more importantly, how would you price it? We strongly believe, when it comes to you and your loved ones, safety is priceless.
Q: What is Pepper Spray?
A: Pepper Sprays are mostly made of OC (Oleoresin Capsicum), an inflammatory agent made from hot cayenne and other peppers. Upon contact, it causes disorientation, restricted breathing, an intense burning sensation and temporary blindness.
Q: How do I measure the effectiveness of Pepper Spray?
A: Pepper spray is rated in two ways: OC% and SHU rating. The % you see listed on the package (10%, 15%, etc.) explains how much OC is in the container relative to the other ingredients (dyes, propellant, etc.). To compare the hotness of different pepper sprays, SHU rating is an important factor. Scoville Heat Units (SHU) is a measurement of the amount of capsaicin in OC. The hotness of OC is directly related to the amount of capsaicin in OC, which varies significantly from manufacturer to manufacturer. The more capsaicin content the OC has, the hotter & more effective the spray will be. Two million SHU will be sufficient.
Q: Is Pepper Spray legal?
A: Pepper spray is legal to possess and carry in most states. Some states and cities have specific regulations pertaining to the purchase, possession and use of defense sprays. Please check with your local law enforcement agency for any regulations your state may have. Here are the current restrictions that we are aware of:
New York: New York’s residents may only purchase defense sprays from licensed Firearms Dealers or licensed Pharmacists in that state.
Massachusetts: Massachusetts’s residents may only purchase defense sprays from licensed Firearms Dealers in that state.
Michigan: OC Pepper Spray can be no stronger than a 2% concentrate. CS is the only Tear Gas accepted. Both must be no larger than 35 grams per can. No combination sprays allowed. We carry Michigan approved pepper sprays.
Wisconsin: Pepper spray only. No Tear Gas, UV Dye or combination sprays. OC Pepper Spray can be no stronger than a 10% concentrate. The can must be between 15-60 grams (approx. 1/2 – 2oz) only. Must have safety feature.
Q: Can I carry it anywhere I go?
A: Yes. You cannot carry any pepper spray on an airplane or in carry-on luggage or in the passenger area. The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) allows one Pepper Spray (up to 4oz or 113grams) per traveler in your checked luggage only.
Q:Will Pepper Spray expire?
A: Most pepper sprays have an expiration date stamped on the can. It is a relatively important factor of the effectiveness of the product. We recommend replacing your pepper spray after the expiration date. Generally, pepper spray is still effective for 3 to 4 years from the date of manufacture.
Q: When will pepper spray start to work, and how long will the effect last?
A: It takes 3-5 seconds for pepper spray to take effect, and the effects can last from 15 minutes to about 60 minutes depending on the types of pepper spray.
Q: When using the voice alert intruder notification system, can I make a different recording for every transmitter?
A: Yes. If you put one in your garage and one in your backyard, the recording for the garage transmitter could be something like, “There’s someone in the garage.” and the back yard could say, “There’s someone in the backyard.” This is how you would be notified if someone trespassed into those areas.
Q: Is the Sensor/Transmitter waterproof?
A: The Sensor/Transmitters can be used indoors and outside. They are designed to withstand weather including rain and snow but are not designed to be submerged in water. When installed outside the Sensor/Transmitters do best when in a covered area and not in direct sunlight.
Q: How does the Sensor/Transmitter work?
A: The Sensor/Transmitter is a passive infrared receiver (PIR). It detects movement by the change it causes in background temperature and then transmits a radio signal to the Receiver/Speaker that movement has been detected.
Q: How far will the Sensor/Transmitter send a signal to the Receiver/Speaker?
A: The Sensor/Transmitters will transmit a signal in an open area up to 1000 feet to the Receiver/Speaker. Through walls the Sensor/Transmitters will transmit a signal to the Receiver/Speaker up to 300 feet.
Q: Will tree branches trigger a false signal?
A: It is possible for branches to cause a false trigger. The best location to install the Sensor/Transmitter in an area where tree branches and bushes will not be blown by a wind in the detection zone of the Sensor/Transmitters.
Q: Will birds or dogs or cats trigger a false signal?
Q: The Sensor/Transmitters are designed to ignore small animals under 40 Lbs. To reduce the possibility for a false trigger caused by movement of a small animal it is recommended that the Sensor/Transmitters be mounted at a height of 7 1/2 feet above the ground. The lower the Sensor/Transmitters are mounted the higher the chance of picking up a small animal.
Q: How often will the Sensor/Transmitter send a signal?
A: The Sensor/Transmitter has two modes for sensing movement and sending a signal. The (setup) mode that is set at the factory identifies all movement and transmits each detected movement to the Receiver/Speaker. The battery saver mode will detect movement every 3 minutes and then transmit to the Receiver/Speaker. Removing the jumper in the Sensor/Transmitter will setup this mode.
Q: Will the system work through walls of my home?
A: The system is designed to function through the interior walls of a home and exterior walls of a home. The Sensor/Transmitters have difficulty transmitting a signal through aluminum siding or metal surfaces and are best located on a window in that situation.
Q: How many Sensor/Transmitters will the system recognize?
A: There is no limit to the number of Sensor/Transmitters that can be installed with a system. There are 3 voice messages that are available for the Sensor/Transmitters to activate.
Q: How long will the Receiver/Speaker work off the battery?
A: The Receiver/Speaker is designed to function as a power back up in the event of a power outage. The Receiver/Speaker battery will function for up to 2 hours depending on the amount of speaker activity.
Q: Can a Sensor/Transmitter be recognized by more than one Receiver/Speaker?
A: The Sensor/Transmitter can be set to activate an unlimited number of Receiver/Speakers.
Q: Will the Sensor/Transmitter recognize a small child?
A: The Sensor/Transmitter is intended to identify children of about 40 Lbs or larger when the Sensor/Transmitter is installed at a height of 7 1/2 feet above the ground. If it is desired to identify smaller children then the Sensor/Transmitter will need to be installed lower to the ground. When animals are present they may create a false trigger.
Q: Will the Sensor/Transmitter work in the dark?
A: Yes, the Sensor/Transmitter will work in the dark or in full light.
Q: How long will the battery last in the Sensor/Transmitter?
A: The battery in the Sensor/Transmitter can last up to 1 year depending on if the Sensor/Transmitter is set to battery saver mode. Temperature can also affect the life of any battery. Operating a battery at cold temperature will reduce its life.
Q: How large of an area do the Sensor/Transmitters monitor?
A: The Sensor/Transmitters are designed to monitor a 40-foot by 40-foot area when they are installed at 7 1/2 feet above the ground and there are no obstructions.
Q: Where can I get additional Sensor/Transmitters?
A: Additional Sensor/Transmitters are available on this web site.
About Receiver/Speaker. Records six separate user recorded voice messages, ~6.5 seconds each. . Supports 6 Sensor/Transmitters. . Volume Control knob allows you to set the message volume to suit your needs. . Message playback buttons allow you to test each recorded message. . Digital recording chip allows you to change voice messages easily. . Missed message indicator, alerts you of activity that occurred in your absence. . 9V alkaline battery backup in the event of power outage. . Solid-state construction. . Powerful 433.92 MHz receiver. . Magnetically shielded speaker. . FCC Part 15 approved. . Receiver Stability: Crystal. . Receiver sensitivity: -100dBm. Back to the topAbout Sensor/Transmitter. Monitored range: 40 X 40 feet when installed at 7 1/2 feet above the ground. . Passive infrared (heat) motion detection technology. . Installation kit includes double stick mounting tape and screws. . Lightweight all-weather construction for use indoors or outside. . 9V alkaline battery lasts up to 1 year. . Transmits up to 1000 feet to Receiver/Speaker in open space and up to 300 feet through walls. . LED transmit display when motion is detected (on/off jumper selectable). . Powerful 433.92 MHz transmitter. . FCC Part 15 approved. Back to the topQuick Start Guide1. Unpack your VOICE ALERTTM and identify all of the components.2. Install the 9V batteries (supplied) in the Receiver/Speaker and the Sensor/Transmitters.3. Attach the AC/DC power converter to the Receiver/Speaker and wall receptacle.4. Turn on the Receiver/Speaker by pressing the “POWER” button on the front of the Receiver/Speaker (red front panel LED will turn on).5. Record voice messages.A. On the back of the Receiver/Speaker slide the switch to “RECORD VOICE” position.B. Press a desired message button #1 or #2 or #3, etc.C. While holding the message button speak into the “MIC” (6.5 seconds maximum).D. Rear panel LED will light while recording.E. Return the slide switch to “Run” position.F. Repeat steps A-C for each message button.6. Install Sensor/Transmitter #1 in location and trigger message #1.7. Install Sensor/Transmitter#2 in location and trigger message #2.8. Press “PLAYBACK” on front of Receiver/Speaker to hear the message and stop LED from flashing.9. Adjust the “VOLUME” knob on the front of the Receiver/Speaker to desired volume level.. For your convenience the Sensor/Transmitters have been pre-programmed at the factory. . Sensor/Transmitters have the largest detection pattern (40 feet X 40 feet) when installed at 71/2 feet above floor. Lower installation will detect smaller persons or animals or objects and Sensor/Transmitters will have a shorter detection pattern. . Make sure there are no obstructions or moving objects (tree limbs etc) in desired detection pattern. . Sensor/Transmitters should not be installed where they will face direct sunlight or oncoming automobile headlights. (indirect light through a window will not cause a trigger) . Avoid installing Sensor/Transmitters on metal surfaces such as aluminum siding or metal doors. . Do not drop any of the VOICE ALERT components as doing so may damage them. Back to the top
