Spirit HD

User guide

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Software update

Version: 3.4

Release date: September 27, 2022

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Release notes

Release notes 3.4

The update you’ve all been waiting for. Cardo Dynamic Mesh (DMC) and Sena Mesh 2.0 intercoms can now cross-communicate reliably!

Just use a Bluetooth bridge between a single Cardo DMC and a Sena Mesh* unit, and you are good to go! The Bluetooth connection will automatically recover in case of disconnection keeping the combined group together * Not including Sena Spyder and other mesh-only units by Sena.
Also, the intercom experience on the Sena side has been improved, allowing for a more reliable audio multi-tasking experience (yes, we take care of our competitor’s units as well).
We have improved our fast charging, making it even more robust and reliable.
As always, we took care of removing some bugs from your windshield, so your ride is pitch-perfect and clear.

Release notes 3.2

Love Bluetooth brands that don’t talk to each other? Neither do we! That’s why the following release is one we are extremely proud of. On top of your current OBi connectivity, your device can now also seamlessly communicate with the latest generation Senas, directly via the standard Bluetooth intercom.

Forget the hassle of using Bluetooth devices of different brands. The experience will be as seamless as connecting and communicating between two devices of the same brand and won’t require universal pairing on either side. Just pair, connect, and go.
Eat the cake and keep it whole! No more sacrificing the mobile connection channels, you will keep the ability to receive phone calls, and navigation instructions and listen to music or FM on either side (parallel audio is based on the support of specific models).
Please note that, just as music sharing is not supported between two different generations of Cardo products, it won’t be possible to share music between different brands.

Release Notes 3.1

* Critical bug fix for smartphones running Android 13 (Tiramisu) *
If your Android 13 smartphone has issues connecting your Cardo Communicator with the Cardo Connect mobile app, this release is for you!

The 3.1 release fixes these connection issues, but in order to download it to your phone, you’ll need to choose one of the following two methods to update your unit.

Method 1 – via a non-Android 13 phone

Pair your unit to an iPhone or a non-Android 13 phone
Download and install Cardo Connect mobile app
Activate the app and follow the on-screen instructions

Method 2- via a laptop/desktop connection

connect a USB type C cable (such as the one that was supplied in the box) to a desktop or a laptop running Windows or macOS
Click here and follow the instructions

Release Notes 3.0

The below notes refer to users of FREECOM 4x, FREECOM 2x, SPIRIT HD and SPIRIT.

Your unit now supports Open Bluetooth Intercom (Obi) – a new cross-industry standard allowing supported units from Cardo, Midland, and UClear to communicate seamlessly with one another. OBi will be activated automatically when paired to a supported device. No further toggling is needed.
For non-OBi units, your unit can now integrate with any other Bluetooth brand more seamlessly. All you need to do is to pair your unit in Bluetooth mode like you would do to any other Cardo Unit. The other branded unit will pair through its own “universal pairing” channel. No more choosing between pairing to a non-Cardo unit or keeping your phone connection.
Love leaving voice messages on your messaging app? WeChat, WhatsApp & Skype voice messages will now stream into your device more fluidly
For our Spanish-speaking audience we say, “Hola Amigos!” We have resolved the issue of the system performing an unwanted “Redial Number” during an intercom chat.
Two-way radio users (Professionals and first intervention units) the new software version will now allow integrating two-way radio input into an active mobile call. Function needs to be activated via the CardoConnect app setting screen.
As always, we added some bug fixes. Essentially, it’s like adjusting your chain but without the injured fingers and messy grease stains.

Software Update 2.1

Fixed music and navigation sound quality issues
in phones running Android 12th.

Cardo Updater 3.4

Support for the new Freecom X and Spirit products has been added
We’ve caught some Bugs on our visor and had them cleaned off.

Mobile applications

Cardo Connect

Helpful Tips

Do I need a phone to operate my unit?

Your intercom and radio features are completely phone independent. You wouldn’t need any phone to operate them. You would need a phone (or some other Bluetooth media player) to stream music and, of course, to make and receive calls.

How can I improve my sound quality?

Sound quality is best when the speakers are placed directly opposite your ear canal. Verify that the speakers are correctly placed inside your helmet by following the next steps.
1. With the helmet on, slide your finger inside the helmet and press against the side of the helmet where your ear is. This is where the speakers should be positioned.
2. Remove the helmet, but keep your finger in that spot. Check to make sure the speakers are in this position.
3. Make sure the speakers are positioned as close to your ear as possible so you can feel them. If necessary, use the included Velcro booster pads behind the speakers to get them closer to your ear.
4. Since every head is different, you may find that your helmet ear cavities are not placed optimally. If this is the case consider placing the speakers outside your helmet ear cavities right opposite your ears.

Is it possible to use it with my own earbuds / speakers?

While your unit comes right out of the box with one of the best set of speakers in the business, you can always plug in your favorite earbuds or aftermarket speakers via the 3.5mm Jack port and ride on.

How can I get ROHS-COC Certificate

Download ROHS-COC Certificate

How can I get Spirit Declaration of Compliance

Download Spirit Declaration of Compliance

How can I get SAFETY & WARRANTY

Download How can I get SAFETY & WARRANTY

Frequently asked questions

How can I update my unit?

No need for a cable, the Software update is Over the Air, using your mobile phone. Download Cardo Connect app to your mobile phone, go to Settings, select your unit, and then click on the latest available sofware update. Of course, you can also update the software with a USB cable on your computer. Download and open the Cardo Update app from Cardo website, connect your unit and follow the instructions. Updating with the latest software will keep your unit free of bugs and will provide you with additional new functionalities. We recommand to update your unit before first use.

Can I use my unit in the rain?

Sure. All Cardo units are waterproof. This means you can ride in the rain, and enjoy top communication.

How long does it take to charge my unit?

Your unit is featured with Fast Charging. You will get 2 hours of talktime after only 20 minutes of charge. You will get full charge within 2 hours.

How can I get more run-time out of my battery?

Your Cardo unit comes with a charge while riding feature that allows you to plug in the unit into a power bank or a motorcycle power source and continue long after the standard battery time has passed. To do it, just plug your unit into the power source and you're set.

Can I replace the battery in my unit?

DO NOT attempt to disassemble or replace the battery on your own. Replacing the battery by yourself could damage the system’s waterproof ability. However, you can try the following: Plug-in your unit to the charger and leave it charging for at least 4 hours straight. If this does not work, try using a different wall charger and USB cable. If the unit still doesn’t hold a charge, please contact support.

The unit doesn't seem to be charging or the Battery seems to not last as long as it should

Plug in your unit to the charger and leave it charging for at least 4 hours straight. If this does not work, try using a different wall charger and USB cable. If the unit still doesn’t charge, please contact support. DO NOT attempt to disassemble or replace the battery on your own. DO NOT open the unit. It will no longer be waterproof! If your unit is out of warranty, you can find replacement batteries on 3rd party’s websites and in specialty electronics retailers. That said, we DO NOT recommend replacing parts on your own, for risk of water, dirt and general electronics damage.

How do I make sure that my unit's battery lasts as long as possible?

We recommend not to leave your unit unused or in storage for more than 3 months without charging. Be sure to plug your unit at least once every 3 months for full 4 hours to ensure maximum battery life.

Which mobile app do I need to download?

You need to download the Cardo Connect app. The Cardo Connect App lets you configure your unit, and it offers remote controlled operation from the screen of your smartphone, as well as over the air Software updates.

Does the SPIRIT line connect to other generation Cardo units (Packtalk, Freecom, G, Q)?

Yes, your new Cardo communication system connects to all Cardo units, via universal Bluetooth connection. Freecom+ and Packtalk units connect with your SPIRIT unit using regular Bluetooth pairing. G and Q units need to be on phone pairing mode before starting pairing.

How to pair to a non-Cardo headset using universal connectivity

In order to pair your unit with a non-Cardo headset please do the following: 1. Start intercom pairing on your unit (please refer to your pocket guide or user manual on how to do it) 2. On the other unit start mobile phone pairing 3. Wait For the pairing to complete

Can I listen to music and be part of the intercom at the same time?

Yes, intercom and music streaming can be active at the same time. Whenever someone in the intercom network speaks, your CARDO unit will automatically lower the volume of your music so you can hear what they say.

Something stopped working on my SPIRIT unit. What should I do?

"Before trying anything else we recommend to simply reset the unit to factory settings. Step 1: Press the Intercom/Mobile +Volume up+Volume down buttons together for at least 5 seconds until the LED starts flashing purple and the unit turns off. Step 2: Turn the unit back on.

Why can't I get the full range of Intercom out of my unit?

The range stated in the product description has been tested in optimal conditions. Actual range performance could potentially be adversely affected by obstacles to the line of sights, such as mountains, trees, or powerlines.

Are there limitations in using music sharing feature?

Music sharing is possible between FREECOM x and SPIRIT units, but it is not possible to share music with other generations of Cardo units.

Is it possible to use it with my own earbuds / speakers?

Do I need a phone to operate my unit?

How can I get more range of intercom out of my unit?

Like vehicle gas millage figures, the range stated in the product description is the maximum range tested under optimal conditions. Actual range performance could vary by obstacles to the line of sight such as ridges, trees, and buildings, as well as from wireless interferences such as cellphone base-stations, and power lines.

How can I improve my sound quality?

Sound quality is best when the speakers are placed directly opposite your ear canal. Verify that the speakers are correctly placed inside your helmet by following the next steps. 1. With the helmet on, slide your finger inside the helmet and press against the side of the helmet where your ear is. This is where the speakers should be positioned. 2. Remove the helmet, but keep your finger in that spot. Check to make sure the speakers are in this position. 3. Make sure the speakers are positioned as close to your ear as possible so you can feel them. If necessary, use the included Velcro booster pads behind the speakers to get them closer to your ear. 4. Since every head is different, you may find that your helmet ear cavities are not placed optimally. If this is the case consider placing the speakers outside your helmet ear cavities right opposite your ears.

How can I get ROHS-COC Certificate

Download ROHS-COC Certificate

How can I get Spirit Declaration of Compliance

Download Spirit Declaration of Compliance

Can I share music with any other Cardo unit?

You can share music with any Cardo unit from the same generation: PACKTALK EDGE, PACKTALK NEO, PACKTALK CUSTOM, FREECOM 4X, FREECOM 2X, Spirit HD, and Spirit. Your unit will not be able to share music with products from previous generations (PACKTALK Bold/Black/Slim/Ducati/Louis, PACKTALK, SMARTPACK, SMARTH, FREECOM 2/4/1+/2+/4+, G-line, Q-line, SRC-line, SHO-1).

Will it pair with any other Bluetooth intercom?

Yes, Cardo intercom systems come with universal connectivity. It will pair with any other Bluetooth communication system by Cardo or by other leading brands.

With Midland, Uclear and Sena latest generations communicators, the Bluetooth pairing will be identical as pairing to another Cardo unit.

In order to pair your unit with a non-Cardo headset please do the following:

Start intercom pairing on your unit (please refer to your pocket guide or user manual on how to do it)
On the other unit start universal pairing(if supported) or mobile phone pairing(if universal pairing is not supported)
Wait For the pairing to complete

How will it connect with Sena units?

Your device can seamlessly communicate with the latest generations of Sena, directly via the standard Bluetooth intercom.

Pairing and communicating is the same as between two devices of the same brand. No need for universal pairing on either side. Follow the manuals’ instructions and start standard intercom pairing on both devices. Wait for the devices to pair. The intercom connection starts automatically after the pairing.
You will keep the ability to receive phone calls, navigation instructions and listen to music or FM on either side (parallel audio is based on the support of specific models).
Just as music sharing is not supported between two different generations of Cardo products, it won’t be possible to share music between different brands.

Click here to watch the tutorial.

How should I charge my battery in a safe and efficient manner?

You should charge your battery from a wall outlet while making sure that the plug-in AC/DC adapter meets the following criteria: Input: 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz, 0.2; Maximum Output: 5 V DC, 1 A; there is a risk of overheating and burning of the battery if charged otherwise.
You should be aware that the battery charging surroundings temperature limits are 0° - 40°C (32°-104°F);
You should not tamper with the battery; there is a risk of overheating and burning of the battery if the battery is replaced by an incorrect type.”