Understanding SAT IV Light Behavior
The SAT IV is highly sensitive and detects everything, including false beats and other types of “noise” that are produced by vibrating strings. This sensitivity can sometimes result in the SAT IV’s rotating lights appearing fuzzy, unstable, or difficult to use when tuning certain notes. The presence of false beats and noise can create challenges, making the display less clear for precise tuning.
Slowing Down the Rotating Lights
To address these issues, the SAT IV offers the ability to slow down the rotation speed of its lights. By doing so, the device can filter out some of the noise and false beats, helping to produce a clearer and more usable pattern for tuning. In effect, slowing the lights acts as a sort of false beat eliminator. This function is especially valuable when working in the treble and high treble ranges. You can apply the feature to individual notes as needed or use it for the entire upper section of the instrument.
Adjusting the Light Rotation Speed
The default rotation speed of the SAT IV’s lights is 1:1. However, you can reduce this speed by half (1:2), by a quarter (1:4), or by one eighth (1:8), depending on your needs.
- To slow the rotation by half (1:2): Press and hold the Green Shift button, then press the Octave Down button until “1:2” is displayed.
- To slow the rotation to one quarter speed (1:4): While holding the Green Shift button, press the Octave Down button twice.
- To slow the rotation to one eighth speed (1:8): While holding Green Shift, press the Octave Down button three times.
Display Indication for Slowed Light Rotation Speed
When selecting a slowed light rotation speed on the SAT IV, the amount you choose—whether it is 1:2, 1:4, or 1:8—will be displayed only while the Green Shift button is actively held down. As soon as you release the Green Shift button, the display will no longer show any indication that the light speed has been slowed. This means that, although the adjustment remains effective, there is no persistent visual confirmation on the display window once the buttons are released.
Resetting to the Default Speed
To return the SAT IV to the default light rotation speed, press and hold the Green Shift button and then press the Octave Up button until “1:1” appears in the display window. Alternatively, turning the SAT IV off will also reset the light speed calibration. Note that simply entering Calibration mode does not reset the light speed.
When to Use This Feature
This feature is particularly helpful when tuning in the high treble. It can be used for individual troublesome notes or for the entire upper section. However, it is important to reset the device back to the default speed once you have finished tuning the treble. Slowing down the SAT’s light rotation is generally not recommended nor needed when tuning the bass.
Updating Your SAT IV for Light Rotation Speed Features
If your SAT IV is an older model, you may find that the ability to slow down the light rotation speed is not available. To check, press and hold the Green Shift button and then press the Octave Down button. If your SAT IV does not respond or display the speed adjustment feature, it is likely that your device does not currently support this functionality.
In this case, you may need to update the program on your SAT IV. This update can usually be performed by the user, provided you have the correct software and hardware. Begin by contacting Inventronics and requesting they email you the latest program update specific to your SAT IV model.
Once you have received the update, use the SAT IV Updater software in conjunction with your PC to install the new program onto your SAT IV. This process eliminates the need to send your device in for service solely for a software update.
If your SAT IV requires a new battery or needs to be serviced by Inventronics for any reason, they can handle these repairs and the update for you. Program updates are included as part of Inventronics’ routine maintenance when performing repairs or battery replacements. Additionally, while your device is with Inventronics, you may want to inquire about upgrading your Standard Model SAT IV to a SAT IV “980.”