FAQs for Smart AI Voice Recorder

FAQs for Smart AI Voice Recorder

Introduction

Looking for a smart voice recorder that’s compact, easy to use, and packed with modern features? Whether you're a student, journalist, professional, or content creator, the Smart AI Voice Recorder is designed to help you record high-quality audio, transcribe voice to text, and manage your files seamlessly—all in one powerful, portable device.

In this FAQ guide, you’ll find clear answers to the most common questions users have

TCTEC Smart AI Voice Recorder

Question 1: What's Included in the Box?

Each full Smart AI Voice Recorder set includes:

  • 1 × Smart AI Voice Recorder (128GB memory, stores up to 1,000 hours of audio)
  • 1 × USB-C charging 
  • 1 × User manual
  • 1 × Pair of earphones

Question 2: What Material Is the Smart AI Voice Recorder Made Of?

The Smart AI Voice Recorder is crafted from lightweight, high-durability ABS plastic, commonly used in electronics for its toughness and impact resistance.

It also includes:

  • A magnetic ring for attaching to metal surfaces or MagSafe-compatible iPhones
  • A metal hook buckle for easy carrying on keychains or bags
  • A built-in LED indicator and OLED display for visual feedback

This combination of materials makes the device compact, sleek, and durable—ideal for everyday use in professional or personal settings.

Question 3: Where is the microphone on voice recorder?

The Smart AI Voice Recorder features two built-in microphones, labeled as: Microphone 1 and Microphone 2

These microphones are located at the top edge of the device, near the front face. This placement allows them to capture sound clearly from the direction the device is facing, ideal for interviews, meetings, or lectures.

The dual-microphone setup improves audio clarity by reducing background noise and enhancing voice focus.

Question 4:  How long can the Smart AI Voice Recorder record in voice-activated mode? Is there a time limit?

There is no fixed time limit per recording session. Total recording time depends on:

  • Battery life
  • Available storage
  • Sound conditions (it only records when sound is detected)
  • Audio quality setting (bitrate)

Question 5: Can the Smart AI Voice Recorder Keep Recording Until the Battery Dies?

Yes. The Smart AI Voice Recorder includes a power-off save feature. This means if the battery runs out during a recording session, the device will automatically save the file before shutting down.

  • No data loss.
  • No corrupted files.
  • Peace of mind, even in long sessions.

It’s a smart safety feature designed for uninterrupted and reliable voice capture.

TCTEC Smart AI Voice Recorder, Video by TCTEC

Need More Help?

If you still experience issues, please contact us for assistance:

📩 Email: info@tctecinnovation.com

💬 Live Chat: Visit our website at tctecinnovation.com and chat with our support team.

▶️ YouTube chanel "TCTEC": Watch step-by-step video tutorials for each product.

Question 6: How to Check the Remaining Battery Level on the Smart AI Voice Recorder?

To check the battery percentage, simply open the TCTEC Record app on your smartphone. Once the recorder is connected via Bluetooth, the app will display the real-time battery level of the device.

Question 7: How Do You Charge the Device? How Long Does It Last?

    To charge the Smart AI Voice Recorder, use the included USB Type-C cable and a standard 5V/1A power adapter (not included in the box). Simply plug it into a USB charger or your computer. A full charge takes about 3 hours.

    The built-in 1200 mAh battery provides up to 30 hours of continuous recording on a full charge.

    Question 8: What Is the Default Recording Format?

    The Smart AI Voice Recorder saves audio files in two formats: WAV and OPUS, with a default quality of 256 Kbps for clear and professional voice capture.

    By default:

    • When you share or forward a recording from the app (e.g., to email, messaging apps, or cloud storage), the file is automatically exported in WAV format.
    • When you connect the recorder directly to a computer via USB, the storage will display both WAV and OPUS versions of the recordings, depending on the file and settings used during capture.

    This dual-format system ensures compatibility and flexibility—WAV for high-quality universal playback, and OPUS for compressed storage with smaller file sizes.

    Question 9: Does the Smart Voice Recorder Have a Password Protection Feature? How Is the Password Set?

    No, the Smart AI Voice Recorder does not currently offer built-in password protection for recordings or the device itself.

    However, you must create a secure account when using the TCTEC Record app, which includes: Email verification, custom password setup

    This account helps manage your recordings securely through the app.

    Question 10: How does the LED light work when charging and recording?

    The Smart AI Voice Recorder uses LED lights to show different statuses:

    While Charging:

    • The LED light flashes blue while the device is charging.
    • Charging takes approximately 3 hours using a standard 5V/1A USB charger.

    While Recording:

    • Blue Light Flashes → Device is turned on
    • Red Light Flashes → Recording in progress
    • Red Light Stays On → Recording paused
    • Blue Light Stays On → Connected to the TCTEC Record app

    Need More Help?

    If you still experience issues, please contact us for assistance:

    📩 Email: info@tctecinnovation.com

    💬 Live Chat: Visit our website at tctecinnovation.com and chat with our support team.

    ▶️ YouTube chanel "TCTEC": Watch step-by-step video tutorials for each product.

    Question 11:  Does the Recorder Make Any Sound or Light Up While Recording? What Appears on the Screen?

    The Smart AI Voice Recorder operates silently while recording. It does not make any beeping or sound, ensuring discreet usage. While recording, a red LED light flashes to show that recording is active. If recording is paused, the red light stays on (solid).

    While the Smart AI Voice Recorder is recording, the display screen shows helpful real-time information:

    • File Name (e.g., R0001)
    • Recording Format (wav256 for 256 Kbps WAV)
    • Elapsed Recording Time (in seconds)
    • Battery Level Indicator
    • Recording In Progress Status

    To save power and avoid distractions, the screen automatically turns off after a few seconds during recording. This helps preserve battery and makes the device more discreet.

    Question 12: What Recording Modes Does the Smart AI Voice Recorder Support?

    The Smart AI Voice Recorder offers two main recording modes for flexibility and control:

    1. Manual Recording Mode

    • Press and hold the record button for 2 seconds to start recording.
    • Press again briefly to pause/resume, and hold again for 2 seconds to stop.
    • You can also control recordings manually through the TCTEC Record app.

    2. App-Controlled Recording Mode

    Use the TCTEC Record app to:

    • Start/stop recordings remotely
    • Pause or resume recordings
    • Upload and transcribe files directly after recording

    TCTEC Smart Voice Recorder Instruction | Quick Overview

    Question 13: How Should You Position the Smart AI Voice Recorder to Capture Clear Audio?

    To get the best sound quality from your Smart AI Voice Recorder, follow these tips:

    1. Face the microphones toward the sound source

    The recorder has two built-in microphones located at the top. For optimal clarity, point this end directly toward the person speaking.

    2. Place the recorder within 1–2 meters (3–6 feet)

    Keep the device close to the speaker but not too close to avoid distortion. A distance of about arm’s length works best in most environments.

    3. Use a stable, flat surface

    Position the recorder on a table or desk to reduce handling noise and vibration. Avoid placing it on soft or unstable materials.

    4. Adjust Sound Sensitivity (Voice-Activated Recording)

    You can enable voice-activated recording and adjust its sensitivity level (1–7):

    • Low sensitivity (6–7): Records only when louder sounds are present – best for noisy rooms.
    • High sensitivity (1–3): Triggers easily with soft sounds – best for quiet environments.

    Question 14: How to Listen to Recordings from the Smart AI Voice Recorder?

    There are three simple ways to play back your audio files from the Smart AI voice recorder:

    1. Using the Included Type-C Earphones

    • Plug the Type-C earphones directly into the recorder.
    • Playback mode starts automatically.
    • Use the inline control buttons to:
      • Play or pause audio
      • Adjust volume (+ / -)
      • Switch between music and recording files (long press play/pause)

    Note: Make sure music files are saved in the “MUSIC” folder. Otherwise, they won’t be recognized.

    Volume Control

    Previous/Next Track

    Fast forward/ Rewind

      2. Using the TCTEC Record App (via Bluetooth)

      • Open the TCTEC Record app on your smartphone.
      • Connect the recorder via Bluetooth.
      • Tap on any uploaded recording to play it back directly within the app.

      3. Listen on a Computer (Windows or Mac)

      Connect the recorder to your computer using the USB cable. It will appear as a removable drive (L89). Your recordings are stored inside as .WAV and .OPUS files.

      To play a recording:

      • Step 1: Right-click the audio file you want to listen to
      • Step 2: Select “Open with” > “Windows Media Player Legacy”

      If your computer doesn’t have that player, you can download VLC Media Player, a free and lightweight app that supports nearly all audio formats.

      TCTEC | How To Play .wav files On Windows Computer

      Need More Help?

      If you still experience issues, please contact us for assistance:

      📩 Email: info@tctecinnovation.com

      💬 Live Chat: Visit our website at tctecinnovation.com and chat with our support team.

      ▶️ YouTube chanel "TCTEC": Watch step-by-step video tutorials for each product.

      Question 15: How to Set the Date and Time on the Smart AI Voice Recorder?

      When you first connect the recorder to the TCTEC Record app, the system clock on your phone may sync automatically with the device.

      Question 16: USB Not Connecting to the Laptop? 

      To access your recorded files or configure the device, you need to connect your voice recorder to a computer correctly. Follow this step-by-step guide to check and fix connection issues if your computer does not recognize the device.

      Note: If your computer doesn’t recognize the device or the drive doesn’t show up, follow the step-by-step guide in this article: Quick Fixes for Common Voice Recorder Connection Issues with Your Computer

      1. Choose the Correct USB Cable

      Use the USB-C cable included in the box.

      2. How to Connect

      Plug the USB-C end into the voice recorder.

      3. Wait for Your Computer to Recognize the Device

      After connecting, your computer should automatically detect the recorder's drive (L89)

      • On Windows:
        • Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
        • Click on This PC or My Computer.
        • Look for a new USB drive listed.
      • On macOS:
        • Open Finder.
        • Look under the Locations section in the left sidebar for your USB device.

      4. What to Do If Your Recorder Doesn’t Show Up  

      If your voice recorder doesn’t appear in File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (macOS), it may still be connected but not yet visible. This often happens when the device isn’t assigned a drive letter or hasn’t been mounted. Follow the steps below to fix the issue based on your operating system.

      Windows – Device Not Showing in File Explorer macOS – Device Not Showing in Finder
      Cause: Device is connected but not assigned a drive letter. Cause: Device is connected but not mounted.

      Step 1: Open Disk Management

      Press Windows + X → Select Disk Management.

      Step 1: Open Disk Utility

      Press Command + Space → Type Disk Utility → Press Enter.

      Step 2: Find Your Recorder

      Look for a disk named KL130, L800, TCTEC, etc.If it shows “Healthy” but no letter (like F:), that’s the issue.

      Step 2: Locate the Device

      Look for a disk named KL130, L800, L89, USB Disk, or TCTEC in the left panel.If it’s gray, it’s not mounted yet.

      Step 3: Assign a Drive Letter

      Right-click → Choose Change Drive Letter and Paths... → Click Add or Change → Pick a letter (e.g., E, F, G) → Click OK.

      Step 3: Mount the Device

      Select the device → Click Mount at the top.

      Step 4: Check File Explorer

      Open File Explorer (Windows + E) → The recorder should now be listed.

      Step 4: Check Finder

      Open Finder → Look under Locations → Your recorder should now appear.

      5. LED status indicators

      The light on the device will blink blue when functioning normally.

      • If the light turns red, it means the battery is low and the device needs to be charged before reconnecting to the computer.
      • If the light is solid blue (not blinking), please try connecting to a different computer or using another cable.
      • If no light appears on the device, please contact us for further assistance.

      6. Troubleshooting Tips

      If your voice recorder still doesn’t appear:

      • Unplug the USB and reconnect it.
      • Try using a different USB port.
      • Check if the cable is damaged or loose.
      • Restart the recorder or your computer.
      • Try connecting the recorder to a different computer.

      Note:  Please try checking if the device is still recording properly. You can listen to the recordings directly on the device using the included Type-C earphones (Use the earphone’s volume control to switch between different recording files)

      This step will help us determine whether the issue is related to the recording process or another cause, so we can provide the most accurate solution for you.

      Question 17: How to Rename a Recording File?

      1. Connect your computer

      Using the USB cable. Once it appears as a USB drive (L89):

      • Open the folder containing your audio files
      • Right-click the file you want to rename
      • Select “Rename” and enter your preferred file name
      • Press Enter to save the new name

      2. Using the TCTEC Record App

      • Open the TCTEC Record app on your smartphone.
      • Make sure your recorder is connected via Bluetooth.
      • Go to the list of saved recordings.
      • Tap and hold (or swipe left) on the file you want to rename.
      • Select the Rename option.
      • Enter a new name and confirm.

      Question 18: How to Download Recordings?

      1. Download recordings on your computer

      • Connect the device to your computer using a USB cable and adapter included with the product.
      • Open the device’s storage, which appears as a “L89” disk drive on your computer.
      • Locate and open the file named "RECORD" in a text editor.
      • Drag and drop the recordings to your Mac to save them
      • Save the file and safely eject the device from your computer. (right-click the device’s drive and select Eject to safely disconnect it from your computer.)

      2. Download recordings on your phone

      • Open the app and log in or register for an account.
      • Tap “Not Connected” to pair your recorder with the app: Once connected, the blue LED on the recorder will stay on.
      • Go to the “Recordings” section in the app: Untransferred files will show as “Waiting”.
      • Tap on each “Waiting” file to upload it to the app.
      • Once uploaded, you can:
        • Play recordings directly
        • Rename or delete files
        • Transcribe them into text
        • Export/share files to cloud storage, email, or messaging apps

      Question 19: How to Delete Recordings?

      1. Directly from the device

      • Connect the included earphones to the device.
      • At the recording file you want to delete, press Pause, then press and hold the REC button for 2 seconds. You will see two options appear:
        • "DEL" – to delete the current file only
        • "DEL ALL" – to delete all existing files on the device

      Note: If you delete files directly from the device, they cannot be recovered.

      2. Using the App

      • Open the TCTEC Record app on your phone.
      • Make sure your device is connected via Bluetooth.
      • Go to the recordings list in the app.
      • Swipe left on the file you want to delete.
      • Tap the Delete icon to remove the file.

      Note: Deleted recordings will be moved to the Recycle Bin folder in the app. You can either restore them or permanently delete them.

      3. Using a Computer

      • Connect the recorder to your computer via USB.
      • Open the folder containing the recordings (e.g., /RECORD).
      • Right-click and delete files just like with a regular USB drive.
      • Safely eject the recorder when done.

      Question 20:  Can Deleted Recordings Be Recovered from the Smart AI Voice Recorder?

      It depends on how and where you delete the files:

      1. If You Delete Files Directly from the Device (via buttons or system reset)

      • Recordings are permanently deleted
      • They cannot be recovered from the device's internal memory

      2. If You Delete Files via the TCTEC Record App

      • Deleted recordings are first moved to the app’s Recycle Bin folder
      • You can restore them or permanently delete them from the bin

      3. If You Delete Files from the Computer (USB Mode)

      • On Windows/macOS, deleted files may be moved to your computer’s Recycle Bin/Trash, depending on how you deleted them
      • If you use Shift + Delete or empty the trash, they cannot be recovered

      Need More Help?

      If you still experience issues, please contact us for assistance:

      📩 Email: info@tctecinnovation.com

      💬 Live Chat: Visit our website at tctecinnovation.com and chat with our support team.

      ▶️ YouTube chanel "TCTEC": Watch step-by-step video tutorials for each product.

      Question 21: Does the Smart AI Voice Recorder Support Transcription or Translation?

      Yes — the Smart AI Voice Recorder supports transcription directly through the TCTEC Record app. However, it does not currently support automatic translation.

      1. Transcription Features

      • After uploading a recording to the app, you can:
        • Register for a transcription time package
        • Choose your desired transcription language
        • Tap to start the transcription process
      • Results are displayed in:
        • Summary format for quick review
        • Mind-map format for structured visualization

      Note: When you sign up for the TCTEC Record app, you automatically receive 1,200 free minutes of transcription time

      2. Translation

      • The app does not provide automatic translation of transcripts.
      • You can manually copy the transcript and use third-party translation tools (e.g., Google Translate) if needed.

      TCTEC Smart Voice Recorder Instruction | Detail Walk-through

      Question 22: What to Do If Transcription Fails or the Text Is Inaccurate?

      If your transcription doesn't work properly or produces inaccurate results, follow these steps to help resolve the issue:

      1. Submit the Audio File for Review

      To help the support team investigate, locate the recording in both .wav and .opus formats:

      • Connect your recorder to a computer via USB
      • Open the “Record” folder
      • Find and save the file in both formats

      Send these files to the support team via email info@tctecinnovation.com so they can analyze the issue more accurately.

      2. Specify the Transcription Type

      Let the team know what kind of transcription you were using (Meeting summary, Interview, Speech, Lecture, etc.). This helps them better understand the context and expected formatting.

      3. Try a New Test Recording

      Record a few short test clips and run transcriptions again.

      Question 23: What Should Be Done If Transcription Minutes Are Purchased but Not Added to the App?

      Once your purchase is successful, the payment will be deducted directly from the bank account you used for the transaction. You will also see a confirmation message displayed on the app. The purchased minutes will be automatically added to your existing balance in the app.

      If the minutes do not appear immediately, please log out of the app and log back in to refresh your account.

      If the issue persists, kindly follow these steps:

      1. Open the banking app or platform you used to make the payment.
      2. Go to your transaction history and take a screenshot of the payment.
      3. Send us the screenshot and let us know the email address you used to log in to the TCTEC app.

      With this information, we will check our system and assist you further.

      Question 24: Does Transcription Time Get Deducted Automatically Even When Not in Use?

      No — transcription time is not automatically deducted when the app or recorder is idle.

      Transcription time is only deducted when a user actively initiates a transcription process. The amount of time deducted corresponds to the length of the audio file being transcribed.

      For example, if a 10-minute recording is selected for transcription, only 10 minutes will be deducted from the available transcription balance.

      Need More Help?

      If you still experience issues, please contact us for assistance:

      📩 Email: info@tctecinnovation.com

      💬 Live Chat: Visit our website at tctecinnovation.com and chat with our support team.

      ▶️ YouTube chanel "TCTEC": Watch step-by-step video tutorials for each product.

      Question 25: Do I Need to Install Any Software to Use It?

      It depends on how you plan to use the device:

      1. No Software Required for Basic Use

      You can use the recorder right out of the box for:

      • Turning on/off the device
      • Starting, pausing, and stopping recordings manually
      • Listening to recordings via the included Type-C earphones
      • Transferring files to a computer via USB (works like a flash drive)

      No drivers or special software are needed for file transfer on Windows or macOS.

      2. App Required for Advanced Features

      To unlock the full potential of the recorder, you’ll need to install the TCTEC Record app, available for iOS and Android.
      The app allows you to:

      • Pair with the recorder via Bluetooth
      • Upload and organize recordings
      • Transcribe audio to text (with 1,200 free minutes)
      • Rename, delete, or export files

      Note: Just search "TCTEC Record" on the App Store or Google Play to download it for free.

      Need More Help?

      If you still experience issues, please contact us for assistance:

      📩 Email: info@tctecinnovation.com

      💬 Live Chat: Visit our website at tctecinnovation.com and chat with our support team.

      ▶️ YouTube chanel "TCTEC": Watch step-by-step video tutorials for each product.

      Question 26: Can You Reset the Device to Factory Settings?

      Use the Physical Reset Button

      • Locate the small “Reset” hole on the device (usually on the side or bottom).
      • Insert a paperclip or pin and press gently.

      This is useful if the device becomes unresponsive or frozen.

      Note: Resetting the device will not delete any of your recorded files.

      Question 27: Is the Smart AI Voice Recorder Waterproof? What Should You Do If It Gets Wet?

      The Smart AI voice recorder is not waterproof and does not have an IPX water resistance rating. Exposure to water, high humidity, or liquids can damage internal components and may result in data loss or device failure.

      If the device comes into contact with water, follow these steps immediately:

      1. Power Off Immediately

      Turn off the recorder right away if it’s still on.

      2. Do Not Charge or Connect to a Computer

      Avoid plugging it into a charger or USB port while the device is still wet or even slightly damp.

      3. Gently Dry the Exterior

      Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe off any visible moisture.

      4. Remove Moisture Safely

      Do not use a hairdryer or apply direct heat. Instead:

      • Place the device in a sealed container with silica gel packets
      • Alternatively, place it in a container of uncooked rice for 24–48 hours to absorb moisture

      5. Test the Device After It's Fully Dry

      Once you’re sure the recorder is completely dry, try turning it on or connecting it to your computer to check if it still works.

      Question 28: How to Find the User Manual for the Device?

      You can easily access the detailed user manual for your smart AI voice recorder by following these steps:

      1. Visit the official TCTEC Innovation website
      2. Scroll down to the bottom of the homepage and look for the “Technical Support” section
      3. Click on “Technical Support”, then navigate to find the User Manual that matches your product

      If you’re having trouble locating it, you can go directly to the support page here

      Question 29: What Is the Warranty Policy for the Smart AI Voice Recorder?

      The Smart AI Voice Recorder is covered under the official warranty policy provided by TCTEC. If your device experiences any issues during normal use, you can request support by following these steps:

      1. Prepare the Following Information:

      • Your order number (e.g. #1234) has been sent to your email as confirmation of your purchase.
      • Your full name
      • Shipping address
      • A detailed description of the issue, including what troubleshooting steps you've already tried (such as those listed in the connection guide)

      2. Send the Information via One of These Methods:

      The TCTEC support team will review your request and guide you through the warranty process — whether it’s a replacement, or other solutions, depending on the issue.

      Unboxing the TCTEC AI Voice Recorder – ChatGPT Empowered for Smart Transcription!. Video by MikeTheTech

      Need More Help?

      If you still experience issues, please contact us for assistance:

      📩 Email: info@tctecinnovation.com

      💬 Live Chat: Visit our website at tctecinnovation.com and chat with our support team.

      ▶️ YouTube chanel "TCTEC": Watch step-by-step video tutorials for each product.

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