Merlyn Doesn't Hear Me (Voice Commands)

🛑 STOP! Critical Check: Sign-In and License Status First

If Merlyn isn't responding, the cause is often that the app is logged out or your license is inactive.

1. Check Status: Look at the Merlyn application interface. Are you seeing any of the following?

   • A prompt that says "Click here to sign in"

   • An error message like "No Active License" or "License Expired"

2. Resolution:

   • If YES (You see a sign-in or license block): STOP this flow and navigate immediately to 🔑 Sign-In & License Errors for the fastest resolution.

   • If NO (You are signed in and the license is OK): Proceed below.

Step 1: Run Merlyn Diagnostic Tool

This tool checks your system and sends valuable data to your Admin or Support team.

• Action: Run the Merlyn Diagnostic Tool.

• Result: Note the results, especially the status of your network allowlist.

Step 2: Verify System Microphone Permissions (MacOS & Chromebooks)

Permissions can drop or be temporary, blocking Merlyn from hearing you.

1. Navigate to System Settings: Go to your computer's main Privacy & Security (MacOS) or Settings > Privacy and Security (Chromebooks) menu.

2. Find Microphone: Select the Microphone setting.

3. Grant Access: Ensure the Merlyn application is explicitly listed and set to "ON."

4. ⚠️ Non-Admin Gate: If you are unable to access or change these settings, contact your School/District IT Admin for assistance.

Step 3: Hardware Triage and Remote Functionality Check

If the AirMouse works, the hardware is fine; if not, you have a physical issue.

1. Test Command: Press and hold the Push-to-Talk button and say clearly: "What time is it?"

2. If Remote is Unresponsive: If the remote's lights don't react or the AirMouse fails, STOP and follow the full diagnostic steps in 🖱️ Remote/Puck Is Disconnected.

Step 4: Green Light / Orange Ball Check (Network Failure)

If the remote works but Merlyn doesn't respond to the test command.

Step 5: Check for Device Conflicts

1. Isolate Merlyn: Temporarily unplug all other USB microphones, webcams, speakers, and external trackpads.

2. Retest: Try the "What time is it?" command.

   • If it NOW WORKS: A conflict was confirmed. Systematically plug devices back in to find the offending peripheral, and manually ensure Merlyn is prioritized in your computer's sound settings.

Step 6: Final Reset and Escalation

1. Final Reset: Fully reboot your computer (do not just sleep or log out). Try the test command once more.

2. Reinstallation: If the issue persists, the problem may be a driver or failed application permission. Follow the steps in the 💻 App Installation & Setup Issues article to attempt a clean reinstallation.

🛑 Still Stuck? Contact Merlyn Support

If you have followed all steps, email the Merlyn Diagnostic Tool Log File and a note confirming you completed these checks to:

mattwoodward@merlyn.org