Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to program OpenEarable before I can use it?
If you get the starter kit, OpenEarable comes pre-flashed with the latest firmware so you can immediatly
use it with the dashboard, app and libraries. If you are building your own OpenEarable, you will have to
first flash the bootloader using a J-Link debugger and then upload the latest firmware via
Arduino.
How long does the battery last and how long does it charge?
The exact battery life will depend on your usage patterns, such as the frequency of data streaming and
audio playback. Charging the battery to full capacity takes about 45 mins.
Are there any IP ratings for OpenEarable (e.g., water or dust resistance)?
OpenEarable does not have an IP rating. It's recommended to avoid exposure to water and dust to prevent
damage to the electronic components.
What is the range of BLE connectivity for OpenEarable?
The BLE range for OpenEarable is consistent with standard BLE devices, which is typically up to 10
meters (33 feet) without obstructions.
How customizable is the firmware, and can it be updated wirelessly?
Our firmware is highly customizable and open source (
Github repository). Firmware
updates can be conducted through a wired connection. In principle, the nRF52840 supports FOTA updates,
however, it is currently not supported by the OpenEarable bootloader.
I am having issues with connecting my OpenEarable. What can I do?
Download a BLE Scanner for iOS or Android (e.g.,
nRF Connect for Mobile)
and make sure you can find your OpenEarable. If you can find it, there is an issue with the device that
you are using to connect to OpenEarable. Are you using the latest Chrome version? Does the OpenEarable
app have the required permissions? Is the Bluetooth driver of your device updated?
Why can I not find any recordings on my microSD card?
In order to be compatible with OpenEarable the microSD card needs to be formatted as exFAT. Also make
sure to have a sufficiently fast SD card (recommended microSD card: SandDisk class 10 and class
A30).
What is the frequency response of OpenEarable's microphone and speaker?
The frequency response of the microphone can be found in the
datasheet on page 6
and 7. The speaker was characterized in a baffle mount setup using an NTi XL2 Analyzer and pink
noise (
view result).