Caring for Your Operator

Your Operator device is built to last, but proper care will ensure years of reliable use.

Handling

• Hold the device by its body, not by an inserted cartridge
• Insert and remove cartridges straight up and down, not at an angle
• Don’t force cartridges — they should slide in smoothly
• Avoid dropping or jarring the device, especially during data transfers

Storage

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Keep the cartridge slot covered or store with a cartridge inserted to prevent dust buildup
• Avoid humid environments that could cause corrosion
• When not in use, the device can double as a display stand for your favorite cartridge

Cleaning

Device exterior

• Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the plastic enclosure
• For stubborn marks, slightly dampen the cloth with water
• Don’t use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive materials

Cartridge slot

• Use compressed air to remove dust from the slot
• Don’t insert foreign objects into the slot
• If a cartridge isn’t being read properly, the cartridge pins are usually the issue — see Cleaning Cartridge Contacts

USB cable care

• Don’t bend the cable sharply near the connectors
• Unplug by holding the connector, not by pulling the cable
• Store loosely coiled, not tightly wound
• If the original cable is damaged, use a quality USB-C cable as replacement

Removing scratches

Over time, the transparent enclosure may develop superficial scratches from regular use. These can be removed with Polywatch, a polishing cream designed for plastics:

1. Use the version specifically for polycarbonate/plastics
2. Apply a small amount to a soft cloth
3. Follow the product instructions carefully
4. Buff gently in circular motions
5. Wipe clean with a dry cloth

This will restore clarity to the enclosure without damaging the material.

Avoiding problems

• Disconnect when not in use to prevent unnecessary wear
• Don’t leave cartridges half-inserted
• Update firmware when prompted to maintain compatibility
• Clean the cartridge slot with compressed air if you experience read errors