Product safety warnings and instructions

NOTICE: Read safety and health information

Read this guide for important safety and health information about your device.

To reduce the risk of injury, death, or property damage, follow all setup and use guidelines and instructions provided for your device and, if applicable, its accessories and content (e.g., software applications, games, or other content).

You can find additional support at support.microsoft.com. For Surface devices, support is also available in the Surface App.

Keep all printed guides for future reference or go to support.microsoft.com for electronic versions or replacement guides. You can also refer to the Microsoft Help and Support section for contact information at support.microsoft.com.

If you wish Microsoft to contact you only for product-safety alerts or recall notices for this product, please register at aka.ms/product-notifications.

 This symbol identifies safety and health messages in this guide.

 WARNING! Not for safety-critical uses

Your device is not designed or intended for use in any application or situation where device malfunction or failure could lead to death, serious personal injury, property damage, or environmental harm.

 CAUTION! Hearing Safety

Frequent or extended exposure to loud noise or sounds when using a headset or headphones can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss. Individual susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss and potential hearing problems varies. Also, the sound volume produced by a device may vary depending on the nature of the sound, device settings, and the headset or headphones used. As a result, there is no single volume setting that is appropriate for everyone or for every combination of sound, settings, and equipment.

Here are a few common-sense recommendations to minimize your exposure to loud noises or sounds when using a headset or headphones with your device:

• Minimize your time listening to loud sound. All of the sound you are exposed to each day adds up. At maximum volume, listening to music or other content on your device with a headset or headphones can permanently damage your hearing in 15 minutes. If you are exposed to other loud sounds also, it takes less time listening at high volumes to cause hearing damage.

• The more time you spend exposed to loud sounds, the more likely you are to damage your hearing. The louder the sound, the less time that is required to damage your hearing.

• Always turn the volume on your device down before plugging a headset or headphones into your device. Set the volume loud enough to hear clearly in quiet surroundings, and no louder.

• Do not increase the volume after you start listening. Your ears can adapt over time so that high volume sounds normal, but the high volume could still damage your hearing.

• Do not increase the volume to block outside noise. The combination of outside noise and sound from your headset or headphones can damage your hearing. Sealed or noise-canceling headphones can reduce outside noise so that you don’t have to turn up the volume.

• To minimize the potential for hearing damage, keep the volume low enough that you can carry on a conversation with people nearby. If you can’t understand someone nearby speaking normally, turn down the volume. Sound that drowns out normal speech can damage your hearing. Even with sealed or noise-canceling headphones, you should be able to hear nearby people speak.

Finally, be aware of hearing loss symptoms. It’s a good idea to have your hearing checked regularly by an audiologist. Stop using a headset or headphones with your device and have your hearing checked if:

• You experience any hearing loss symptoms

• You hear ringing in your ears

• Your speech sounds muffled, dull, or flat

 WARNING! Parts of this device are magnetic

• Parts of your device are magnetic and may attract metallic items. To reduce the potential risk of sparks and resulting property damage or possible injury, verify the electrical connection areas are free of metallic objects before interconnecting devices or charging.

• Check your headset or headphones before use to be sure they are clean and free of objects such as staples or paper clips.

• Magnetic interference can disrupt the operation of some medical devices. If you use a medical device, consult the device manufacturer or your physician for information and instructions about the use of products with magnetic components near it.

 WARNING! Clean safely

The risk of fire, shock or damage to your device during cleaning can be reduced by taking the following precautions:

• Unplug all cables and turn your device off before cleaning.

• Only clean the exterior of your device.

• Use a dry cloth only, no liquids.

• Gently wipe the exterior surface of fans, vents or other openings to remove any dust buildup.

• Do not clean ports or any part of the device with sharp objects (e.g., paper clips, screwdrivers, knives, etc.).

• Keep connectors dry. Gently wipe with a clean, dry cloth only.

 WARNING! Do not use in potentially explosive atmospheres

Do not store or carry flammable liquids, gases, or explosive materials in the same compartment as your device, its parts, and/or accessories. 

Turn off your device, and do not remove or install battery chargers, AC adapters, or any other accessory for your device when you are in an area with potentially explosive atmospheres. Areas with potentially explosive atmospheres are often, but not always, posted and may include fueling areas or fuel service stations; below decks on boats or other vessels; fuel and/or chemical transfer and storage facilities; and areas where flammable chemicals or particles, such as grain dust or metal powders have collected in the air. In such areas, sparks can occur and cause an explosion or fire.

 WARNING! Musculoskeletal disorders

Use of game controllers, keyboards, mice, or other electronic input devices may be linked to serious injuries or disorders. When using electronic devices, as with many activities, you may experience occasional discomfort in your hands, arms, shoulders, neck, or other parts of your body. However, if you experience symptoms such as persistent or recurring discomfort, pain, throbbing, aching, tingling, numbness, burning sensation, or stiffness, DO NOT IGNORE THESE WARNING SIGNS. PROMPTLY SEE A QUALIFIED HEALTH PROFESSIONAL, even if symptoms occur when you are not working at your computer. Symptoms like these can be associated with painful and sometimes permanently disabling injuries or disorders of the nerves, muscles, tendons, or other parts of the body.

These musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, tenosynovitis, and other conditions.

While researchers are not yet able to answer many questions about MSDs, there is general agreement that many factors may be linked to their occurrence, including: overall health, stress and how one copes with it, medical and physical conditions, and how a person positions and uses his or her body during work and other activities (including using electronic devices). The amount of time a person performs an activity may also be a factor.

Some guidelines that may help you work more comfortably with your device and possibly reduce your risk of experiencing an MSD can be found at support.microsoft.com and xbox.com/xboxone/playhealthy (Healthy Gaming Guide). A Healthy Computing Guide can be downloaded at download.microsoft.com/download/1/3/4/1340dfe4-a8c1-485f-be3b-4e8991323df3/Healthy_Computing_Guide.pdf

 WARNING! Device repair involves risks

Microsoft recommends that you seek professional assistance for repairs. Opening and repairing your device can present electric shock, device damage, fire, and injury risks, and other hazards. Do not attempt do-it-yourself repairs unless you follow the Service Guide at support.microsoft.com for the product, and have the required knowledge, experience, and specialized tools to do so.

Assistance and information from Microsoft for device repair and other services is available at support.microsoft.com.

 WARNING! Keep your device dry

• Do not expose it to rain, snow or other types of moisture. Do not use your device near water or in a damp or excessively humid location (e.g., near a shower, bathtub, sink, or swimming pool, or in a damp basement).

• Do not dry your device with a hair dryer, clothes dryer, conventional, toaster, or microwave oven. If your device becomes wet, gently wipe the exterior with a clean, dry cloth.

 WARNING! Allow sufficient ventilation to avoid overheating 

• Do not place your device in narrow or cramped spaces.

• Do not place objects on top of your device.

• Do not allow dust to build up on the fan, vents or other openings.

 WARNING! Avoid excessive heat

• Do not use or store your device near heat sources or in strong direct sunlight.

 WARNING! Avoid contaminants

• Avoid getting contaminants such as food debris, dust, dirt, oil, or chemicals on your device.

 WARNING! Suffocation hazard – plastic bags

Keep plastic bags away from babies and children to avoid the risk of suffocation.

 WARNING! Keep out of reach of small children

Your device and its accessories are not toys. Keep your device and all its parts and accessories out of the reach of small children. Children could hurt themselves or others or damage your device. In addition, the device may contain or break into small parts that may be a choking hazard to children under 3 years.

 WARNING! Prolonged contact with warm devices (wearable)

Your device and its charger may become warm during normal use. It complies with the surface temperature limits defined by international safety standards; nonetheless, sustained contact with warm surfaces may cause injury. If you have a condition that affects your ability to detect heat or your sensitivity to heat, then you may be particularly susceptible to such injuries.

To reduce this risk:

• If your device gets uncomfortably warm, remove it and take a break.

• Use caution when operating your device with a pillow, blanket or other soft material in contact with your device. The material can block airflow, which may result in the device overheating.

• When charging, keep your device and its charger in a well-ventilated area. Allow for air circulation around the device and its charger. Don’t place your device or its charger under a blanket or pillow or charge on soft surfaces.

• Avoid sustained skin contact with your device when it’s connected to a power source. For example, don’t sleep with it while connected to a charger.

 CAUTION! Skin irritation

This device is made of materials commonly used in wearable electronic devices. However, certain people may develop skin irritation due to allergies or sensitivities. To reduce the risk of skin irritation:

• Clean your device regularly.

• If your device gets sweat or moisture on it, wipe it dry with a cloth.

• Avoid using lotions or other products under the portions of the device that contact your skin.

• Do not wear over injured skin.

• Where applicable, adjust until snug, but not uncomfortably tight.

• If your skin becomes irritated, stop using the device.

If symptoms are severe or persist, consult your physician.

 WARNING! Photosensitive seizures

Some people may experience a seizure when exposed to flashing lights or patterns in moving images or video games. Even people who have no history of seizures or epilepsy may have an undiagnosed condition that can cause “photosensitive seizures” while watching flashing lights, moving images or video games.

These seizures may have a variety of symptoms, including lightheadedness, altered vision, eye or face twitching, jerking or shaking of arms or legs, disorientation, confusion, or momentary loss of awareness. Photosensitive seizures may also cause loss of consciousness or convulsions that can lead to injury from falling or striking nearby objects.

Immediately stop playing or using the device and consult a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms. Parents should watch for or ask their children about the above symptoms — children and teenagers are more likely than adults to experience these seizures.

The risk of photosensitive seizures may be reduced by taking the following precautions:

• Sit farther from the video screen.

• Use a smaller video screen.

• Play in a well-lit room.

• Do not play when you are drowsy or fatigued.

If you or any of your relatives have a history of seizures or epilepsy, consult a doctor before starting any activity using a screen or display.

 WARNING! General battery safety

Your device uses either removeable batteries (i.e., disposable batteries or batteries that are removed from the device for charging) or a built-in battery. Improper use or misuse of batteries may cause injury, death, property damage, or damage to your device or its accessories as a result of battery fluid leakage, fire, overheating, or explosion.

Battery fluid is corrosive and may be toxic. It can cause burns and may be harmful or fatal if swallowed.

 WARNING! Keep batteries out of the reach of children

• For replacement batteries, keep in the original package until ready to use.

• Dispose of used batteries promptly.

 WARNING! Avoid excessive heat and direct sunlight

• Do not leave a battery-powered device in direct sunlight for an extended period.

• Do not expose to temperature above 40 °C (104 °F).

 WARNING! Avoid exposure to liquids

• Do not immerse batteries (or devices containing batteries) in water or other liquids or allow the batteries to become wet.

• Do not use a battery if it has become wet. Do not attempt to dry a battery or battery pack with a hair dryer, in a conventional oven, or in a microwave oven.

 WARNING! Protect batteries from damage

• Do not modify or remanufacture, attempt to insert foreign objects into the battery, expose to fire, explosion, or other hazard.

• Do not disassemble, crush, open, puncture, shred, or short external contacts or circuits.

• Do not strike, throw, step on, or subject batteries to severe physical shock.

• Dropping your device or its battery, especially on a hard surface, can damage the device and its battery. We recommend that you seek professional assistance to inspect your device if you believe damage has occurred.

 WARNING! Never use a damaged battery.

• If you suspect damage to a device’s built-in battery, stop using it.

• If a removable battery appears damaged, including if it is scratched or nicked, immediately dispose of it properly. Use of a damaged battery can cause electrical shorts, overheating, and other component failures.

 WARNING! Removable batteries – remove when appropriate and replace correctly

• Immediately remove old, weak, or worn-out batteries from your device.

• Remove the batteries from your device before storing your device for an extended period.

• Use appropriate replacement batteries. We recommend that you use Microsoft approved battery packs. Replace the disposable or rechargeable batteries supplied with your device with batteries of the same type and rating.

• Do not mix new and old batteries or batteries of different types (for example, carbon-zinc and alkaline batteries).

 WARNING! Removable batteries – store and transport appropriately

• Do not carry or place removable batteries or battery packs together with other metal objects or allow metal objects to touch the battery terminals on the device. They can become hot and cause burns.

 WARNING! Charge rechargeable batteries correctly

• Always charge the rechargeable batteries in your device using the charger supplied with your device (if applicable). If a charger was not supplied, refer to the device’s specifications to select a charger that meets the required voltage and current ratings. Using an improper charging method may result in fire or explosion.

• Do not recharge batteries near a fire or in extremely hot conditions.

• Do not connect batteries directly to wall outlets or car cigarette-lighter sockets.

 WARNING! Exposure to battery fluids

• Avoid contact with battery fluid. Keep the leaked fluid from touching your skin, eyes, clothes, or other surfaces. If the battery fluid contacts your skin, eyes, or clothes, immediately rinse the affected area with water and contact your doctor or other medical provider as appropriate.

• For removable batteries:

  • Carefully remove all batteries by reversing the battery installation instructions provided with your device.

  • Before inserting new batteries, thoroughly clean the battery compartment with a dry cloth, or follow the battery manufacturer’s recommendations for cleanup.

 WARNING! Dispose of properly

Recycle or dispose of old, weak, or worn batteries in accordance with local, regional, or national law or regulation. Do not dispose of batteries in fire or water. Visit www.microsoft.com/legal/compliance/recycling End-of-life management and recycling.

 WARNING! Battery safety and replacement

Improper use or handling of your device’s battery may cause injury, death, or property damage as a result of battery fluid leakage, fire, overheating, or explosion. See General battery safety.

Microsoft recommends that you seek professional assistance for repairing or replacing built-in batteries. Improper battery installation, improper handling or storage of batteries, or failure to follow the instructions in the product’s Service Guide could cause battery overheating, expansion, venting, leaking, or a thermal event. This could result in fire, serious injury, death, data loss, or damage to the device or other property damage. Do not attempt do-it-yourself repairs unless you follow the Service Guide at support.microsoft.com for the product, and have the required knowledge, experience, and specialized tools to do so.

Assistance and information from Microsoft for device repair and other services is available at support.microsoft.com.

 WARNING! Exposure to radio frequency (RF) energy for devices with display screens

This device contains Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth^® radio transmitters that meet the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Industry Canada and European guidelines for RF exposure and Specific Absorption Rate.

For devices with display screens: To ensure that your exposure to RF energy from this device stays within the limits set forth in these guidelines, avoid placing the display screen in direct contact with your body (e.g., avoid placing the display side face down on your lap or upper body).

Additional information about RF safety can be found on the FCC website at www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety and the Industry Canada website at www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/eng/sf01904.html.

 WARNING! Wireless devices aboard aircraft

If you plan to check luggage containing a wireless device, turn the wireless device off (if it has an on/off switch) or remove the batteries (if removable).

For wireless devices you are carrying with you in the cabin, disable wireless before departure (put the device in airplane mode, turn it off, or remove the batteries). Listen for the in-flight announcement that tells you if you can use your device during a flight. In-flight wireless use is at the discretion of the airline.

Additionally, Microsoft recommends that you review the air travel information provided by your airline.

 WARNING! Personal medical device interference

Radio-frequency emissions and magnetic fields from electronic equipment can interfere with the operation of other electronic equipment, including medical devices. Although your Microsoft device complies with regulations governing radio frequency emission, interference can still occur.

If you suspect that your Microsoft device is interfering with your medical device, immediately turn off the Microsoft device.

If you have a pacemaker:

• Keep distance between the wireless device and your pacemaker. The American Heart Association recommends that a minimum separation of 15 cm (6 inches) be maintained between a wireless device and a pacemaker to avoid potential interference with the pacemaker.

• Do not carry your device in a chest pocket.

• If you use your mobile device with a case or holder, select one without metallic parts.

If you use a medical device other than a pacemaker, consult the device manufacturer or your physician for information and instructions about the use of other electronic devices near your medical device.

 WARNING! Radiofrequency interference – follow location/facility rules

Radio-frequency emissions and magnetic fields from electronic equipment can interfere with the operation of other electronic equipment under certain circumstances, causing them to malfunction. Although your device complies with applicable regulations, interference can still occur.

Turn off your device or cellular or wireless connections when instructed.

 WARNING! AC power supply safety

Always select and use an appropriate AC power supply for your device. Failure to take the following precautions can result in serious personal injury or death from electric shock or fire or in damage to your device.

To select an appropriate power source for your device:

• We recommend you use genuine Microsoft power supply units (PSUs) and AC power cords. A genuine Microsoft PSU was provided with your device., or can be purchased from a Microsoft-authorized retailer and at store.microsoft.com/devices.

• Use only AC power provided by a standard (mains) wall outlet. Do not use non-standard power sources, such as generators or inverters, even if the voltage and frequency appear acceptable.

• Confirm that your electrical outlet provides the type of power indicated on the PSU (in terms of voltage [V] and frequency [Hz]). If you are unsure of the type of power supplied to your home, consult a qualified electrician.

• Do not overload your wall outlet, extension cord, power strip, or other electrical receptacle. Confirm that they are rated to handle the total current (in amps [A]) drawn by your device (as indicated on the PSU) and any other devices using the same circuit.

• For devices where the AC prongs may be folded for storage, make sure its prongs are fully extended before plugging the AC power supply for your device into the power (mains) outlet.

• For devices equipped with power cords with removable prongs and a universal power supply, make sure the prong assembly is properly configured for the power outlet and fully seated into the power supply before plugging the AC power supply into a power (mains) outlet.

 WARNING! Power cord and cable safety

Damaged power cords and cables can pose an electric shock or fire hazard, and exposed device cables and cords pose a potential tripping hazard. Arrange all cables and cords so that people and pets are not likely to trip over or accidentally pull on them as they move around or walk through the area. Do not allow children to play with cables and cords. To avoid damaging the cords and cables:

• Protect cords from being walked on or crushed.

• Protect cords from being pinched or sharply bent, particularly where they connect to a wall power (mains) outlet, the power supply unit, and your device.

• Do not jerk, knot, sharply bend, stretch, or otherwise abuse the power cords. Do not wrap your power cord too tightly, especially around the power brick. Instead, wrap it using loose coils rather than tight angles.

• When positioning your device or PSU make sure that the cords are not bent sharply and that the connectors are not pushed against a wall or hard surface.

• Do not expose power cords to heat sources.

• Do not allow pets or children to bite or chew on power cords.

• When disconnecting the power cord, pull on the plug—do not pull on the cord.

Inspect your power cords and cables regularly. If a power cord or cable becomes warm, frayed, cracked or damaged in any way, stop using it immediately. We recommend that you replace your damaged power cord or cable with a genuine Microsoft replacement power cord or cable.

Unplug your power cord during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.

NOTICE: Intended user interpupillary distance and age

An interpupillary distance (an eye measurement of the distance between your two pupils) between 51 and 74 is needed to correctly and comfortably view Holograms with HoloLens. This range accommodates most adults and children age 13 and older. HoloLens is not intended for use by children under age 13.

 WARNING! Pre-existing vision disorders

Good binocular vision is required to view stereoscopic 3D content. If you have a binocular vision disorder, such as strabismus (eye misalignment, crossed or wandering eye), you may not be able to view 3D content comfortably. A small percentage of people have a pre-existing binocular vision disorder that they might not be aware of until they try viewing 3D content.

Consider consulting an eye doctor if you have a pre-existing vision disorder or if you find that you are not able to view the 3D effect clearly and comfortably.

HoloLens can be worn over most glasses and used with contact lenses.

 CAUTION! Using mixed reality comfortably

Some people may experience discomfort such as nausea, motion sickness, dizziness, disorientation, headache, fatigue, eye strain, or dry eyes when using mixed or virtual reality, particularly as they adjust to using it. If symptoms are severe or persist, consult your doctor.

Motion sickness and related symptoms can occur when there is a mismatch between what you see and what your body perceives. If you are prone to motion sickness, get migraine headaches, have an inner ear disorder, or other health conditions, you may be at increased risk of discomfort.

Viewing 3D or mixed reality is not known to harm vision development or cause binocular vision disorders. If you are not able to view the 3-D effect clearly and comfortably, consider consulting an eye doctor, as you may have a pre-existing, undiagnosed binocular vision disorder.

Certain situations can increase your risk of discomfort. For example:

• Being a new user – symptoms tend to decrease as you become accustomed to using mixed or virtual reality.

• Devices may work best for users whose interpupillary distance (IPD) falls within a certain range. IPD is the distance between the center of the pupils of the two eyes. Users with an IPD outside the optimal range for the device may experience discomfort.

• Certain types of content, particularly games or movies that make you feel as if you are moving through space or looking down from above, or interactions that involve tracking moving objects.

• Using your device for extended periods without a break.

To reduce the risk of discomfort:

• Start slowly and keep your first sessions brief. For most people discomfort should decrease over the first few sessions.

• Take breaks periodically and stop and rest if you experience any discomfort. The timing and length of breaks varies by the individual user and how they use their device.

If you experience discomfort, stop using your device and rest until you feel better. Sitting still in a well-lit environment can help speed recovery from disorientation. If you feel disoriented, avoid activities that require balance, coordination, or other capabilities until you recover. Take note of the type of content you were viewing and other aspects of the situation in which the discomfort occurred, so you can adjust or ease into the experience next time. People differ in the time required to adapt. Consider taking more frequent or longer breaks.

 WARNING! Use in safe surroundings

Using your device can distract you and keep you from seeing or hearing your surroundings. Windows Mixed Reality immersive headsets may fully obstruct your view, and content may appear to be at a distance but still block your view of nearby physical objects.

Use only in a safe place that is appropriate for your activities. For example, avoid trip hazards, stairs, low ceilings, fragile or valuable items that could be damaged, etc., and situations in which people or things might unexpectedly approach. Do not use your device when a view of your surroundings and attention are needed for safety.

Follow the setup guidance for Windows Mixed Reality, including clearing the area and using your headset to create a virtual boundary around your play area. Virtual boundaries can help you avoid obstacles and aid in managing your surroundings, but they have limitations – learn about how boundaries work and always stay aware of your surroundings.

Consider using a spotter – another person who can guide you if needed, watch for hazards, and keep others from entering the area. The spotter should be aware that the player may move unpredictably and keep a safe distance except when assisting the player. The spotter should verbally alert the player when approaching.

 WARNING! Limitations of boundaries

Where available and correctly configured, your device can be used to set up virtual boundaries to help you avoid obstacles and aid in managing your surroundings. Visit the Boundary FAQ on learn.microsoft.com.

However, the boundaries have limitations. For example:

• Your PC setup and some applications or experiences may result in delays or errors in the boundary display.

• The system only indicates the boundaries you have set. Other obstacles that are in or may enter the play area (e.g., floor, ceiling or ceiling fan, furniture, pets) will not be indicated.

• If you are moving quickly, the boundary may not display soon enough.

When setting boundaries, consider factors such as your intended activity, nearby hazards, arm length, etc. Always stay aware of your surroundings, even if you have created a boundary.

 WARNING! Read safety information and instructions

Read this guide for important safety and health information about your device. To reduce the risk of injury, death, or property damage, follow all setup, use, and care guidelines and instructions provided for your device and, if applicable, its accessories and content (e.g., software applications, games, or other content).

You can find additional support at support.microsoft.com and learn.microsoft.com.

Keep all printed guides for future reference or go to support.microsoft.com for electronic versions or replacement guides. You can also refer to the Microsoft Help and Support section for contact information.

 WARNING! Device sharing

If you let anyone else use your device, make sure that they understand the health and safety information in this guide, as well as any additional safety or usage instructions provided by the device and content providers. Each person using a device should complete the set up/orientation procedures to become familiar with the system.

Contagious Conditions. Avoid sharing the device with anyone with a health condition that can be transmitted by contact. Clean contact surfaces regularly.