Using Keyboard Mode on the SpeechMike

In this tech tip, we’re going to show you how to switch your Philips SpeechMike Premium into keyboard mode. This feature enables you to use the programmable buttons to control third-party applications—but without having Speech Control running.

You may also know Speech Control as the Philips Device Control Center (PDCC). It’s a free application that comes with the SpeechMike microphone; it can also be downloaded here. Make sure you get the right version, depending on whether you’re running Windows or Mac OS X.

Prerequisites for Keyboard Mode

• Keyboard mode is only available on the SpeechMike Premium (SMP3800, SMP3700 and LFH3600, LFH3500 series). Neither the SpeechMike Air, nor the SpeechMike III, supports this feature.
• Your SpeechMike Premium must be running firmware v2.50 or higher. Philips firmware can be found here.

Instructions to Switch Modes

Right out of the box, the SpeechMike Premium is set to event mode. To change it over, there are two methods you can use.

Method A

Hold down the top left and right buttons for approximately five seconds.

You’ll see two orange lights flash, and you’ll hear a beep. You are now in keyboard mode. To switch back, hold the same two buttons down for another five seconds. Wait for another beep and for the lights to go off. You are now in event mode.

Method B

This method is only available in the Windows version of SpeechControl. Open the PDCC and click on the “Device” tab. Find “Button Configuration” on the left-hand side of the window, and then look for the two radio buttons, “event mode” and “keyboard mode.” Select “keyboard mode” and approve the change by clicking [Change Button Mode].

You’re not done just yet—you need to push the change to your microphone. Click the [Upload] button at the top of the PDCC window. Now you’re in keyboard mode.

How to Perform a Mode Check

If you’ve been switching back and forth and aren’t sure what mode your SpeechMike is in, you can check by quickly pressing and releasing the two buttons that enable keyboard mode. If the mic is in event mode, no lights will flash. If it’s in keyboard mode, you’ll see two orange lights.