Overview
The Pulsar APX Smoker V3 is an electric pipe designed for dry herb combustion. Unlike vaporizers that heat material below burning temperatures, the Smoker V3 uses high heat (950-1094F) to ignite dry herb electrically, eliminating the need for butane lighters.
This manual covers setup, operation, and maintenance. Understanding that this device produces smoke through combustion (not vapor) is important for proper expectations.
What's in the Box
Your APX Smoker V3 kit includes:
- APX Smoker V3 device with built-in battery
- Built-in stir stick (attached to device)
- USB-C charging cable
- User manual
Inspect all components upon unboxing to ensure nothing is damaged or missing.
Getting Started
Initial Charge
Before first use, fully charge your device:
- Locate the USB-C charging port
- Connect the included USB-C cable
- Connect to a USB power source
- Digital display shows battery percentage
- Allow 1-2 hours for complete charge
- Disconnect when fully charged (100%)
Device Components
Familiarize yourself with the Smoker V3:
- Zirconia Mouthpiece: Ergonomic ceramic mouthpiece for pure flavor
- Quartz-Lined Chamber: Removable chamber where material is loaded
- Power Button: Main control for power and heating
- Digital Display: Shows battery level and heat status
- Built-In Stir Stick: Removable tool for stirring material
- USB-C Port: Charging connection
- Airpath: Draws through the heated material
Powering On/Off
- Turn On: Click power button 5 times rapidly (within 2 seconds)
- Turn Off: Click power button 5 times rapidly (within 2 seconds)
- Display activates when powered on
Usage Instructions
Loading the Chamber
- Remove the zirconia mouthpiece
- Inspect the quartz-lined chamber
- Break up dry herb to medium consistency (not powder-fine)
- Load loosely into chamber, about 3/4 full
- Do not pack tightly - airflow is essential
- Replace mouthpiece securely
Loading Tips:
- Loose packing allows proper combustion
- Remove stems and seeds
- Ensure material is dry, not moist
- Don't overfill past chamber rim
Manual Mode Operation
- Power on device (5 clicks)
- Hold power button to begin heating
- Watch display for heat indicator
- After approximately 7 seconds, material ignites
- Draw slowly and steadily through mouthpiece
- Continue holding button while drawing
- Release when draw complete
Hands-Free Mode Operation
- Power on device (5 clicks)
- Double-click power button to activate hands-free mode
- Device heats continuously
- Draw when material ignites
- Continue drawing as desired
- Click button once to deactivate hands-free mode
Hands-Free Benefits:
- No need to hold button while drawing
- Ideal for longer sessions
- Convenient for group use
- More relaxed operation
Using the Stir Stick
The built-in stir stick improves session completeness:
- After initial draws, remove mouthpiece
- Remove stir stick from device body
- Gently stir material in chamber
- This exposes unburned material
- Replace stir stick and mouthpiece
- Continue session
Draw Technique
For optimal combustion:
- Wait for ignition: Material glows when ready
- Draw speed: Slow and steady
- Draw strength: Moderate - too hard wastes material
- Length: 3-5 seconds per draw
Session Management
A typical session:
- Initial draws: Fresh material ignites easily
- Mid-session: Use stir stick to expose fresh material
- Late session: Material becomes ash
- Complete: When no more material to burn, empty chamber
Understanding Combustion vs. Vaporization
Important: The APX Smoker V3 is an electric pipe, not a vaporizer.
| Aspect | APX Smoker V3 | Vaporizers |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 950-1094F | 320-430F |
| Process | Combustion | Vaporization |
| Output | Smoke | Vapor |
| Material | Burns to ash | Browns, no ash |
This device is designed for users who prefer traditional smoking but want the convenience of electric ignition.
Charging
Charging Your Device
- Connect USB-C cable to device
- Connect to power source
- Display shows charging percentage
- Full charge: approximately 1-2 hours
- Disconnect when 100% reached
Battery Information
- Capacity: 1100mAh
- Use time: Approximately 1.5 hours per charge
- Display: Shows percentage remaining
Battery Care
- Charge before fully depleting
- Don't leave on charger indefinitely
- Store with partial charge for extended periods
- Avoid extreme temperatures
- Use quality USB-C cables
Care & Maintenance
After Each Session
- Allow device to cool
- Remove mouthpiece
- Empty ash from chamber
- Tap gently to dislodge particles
- Replace mouthpiece
Cleaning the Quartz Chamber
Light Cleaning (after sessions):
- While chamber is warm (not hot), remove mouthpiece
- Empty ash completely
- Use dry cotton swab to wipe quartz surface
- Remove any residue or buildup
Deep Cleaning (weekly):
- Ensure device is off and cool
- Remove the quartz chamber (if removable)
- Soak in isopropyl alcohol (90%+) for 10-15 minutes
- Use cotton swabs to remove stubborn residue
- Rinse with warm water
- Dry completely before reinstalling
Cleaning the Mouthpiece
- Remove zirconia mouthpiece
- Soak in isopropyl alcohol
- Use pipe cleaner for airpath
- Rinse with warm water
- Dry completely before use
Cleaning the Ceramic Power Pad
The self-cleaning ceramic power pad requires minimal maintenance:
- After sessions, material burns to ash
- Empty ash from chamber
- Occasional light brushing if residue builds up
- Avoid harsh scrubbing
Stir Stick Maintenance
- Wipe with cloth after each use
- Clean with alcohol if residue builds up
- Ensure dry before storing
- Check for damage - replace if bent
Storage
- Clean before extended storage
- Store in cool, dry location
- Avoid extreme temperatures
- Keep away from direct sunlight
- Store with partial battery charge
Safety Information
Combustion Warning
This device produces smoke through combustion, not vapor. Smoke contains combustion byproducts. Users should understand:
- This is not a vaporizer
- Smoke is produced, not vapor
- Material burns and creates ash
- Different health considerations than vaporizing
General Safety
- For adult use only (21+)
- Keep away from children and pets
- Do not use if device appears damaged
- Stop use if unusual smell, heat, or sound
- Do not attempt repairs yourself
Heat Safety
- Device reaches very high temperatures (950-1094F)
- Do not touch heated components
- Allow cooling before handling chamber
- Use on heat-resistant surfaces
- Keep away from flammable materials
Fire Safety
- This device creates combustion/fire
- Use in well-ventilated areas
- Never leave unattended while heating
- Ensure material is fully extinguished
- Keep away from flammable materials
Battery Safety
- Use only included or compatible USB-C cables
- Do not leave charging unattended overnight
- Do not expose to extreme temperatures
- Do not puncture, crush, or disassemble
- Keep away from water
- Dispose properly per local regulations
Auto Shutoff
The device automatically powers off after 5 minutes of inactivity:
- Prevents accidental battery drain
- Safety feature against unattended heating
- Cannot be disabled
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 1100mAh |
| Temperature Range | 950-1094F |
| Voltage | 3.7V |
| Atomizer Resistance | 0.4 ohm |
| Chamber | Quartz-lined, removable |
| Heating Element | Self-cleaning ceramic power pad |
| Mouthpiece | Zirconia ceramic |
| Heat Time | ~7 seconds |
| Dimensions | 81 x 31 x 23mm |
| Chassis | PC + ABS |
| Charging | USB-C |
| Battery Life | ~1.5 hours of use |
| Auto Shutoff | 5 minutes |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Troubleshooting
Device Issues
Won't Power On:
- Charge for at least 30 minutes
- Click 5 times within 2 seconds
- Try different USB cable/power source
- Check charging port for debris
Won't Heat:
- Ensure device is powered on
- Hold button continuously
- Check battery level
- Clean chamber contacts
Combustion Issues
Material Won't Ignite:
- Ensure material is completely dry
- Don't pack too tightly
- Allow full heat-up time
- Break material into smaller pieces
Burns Unevenly:
- Pack more loosely
- Use stir stick to redistribute
- Ensure even loading
- Check airflow isn't blocked
Taste Issues
Harsh/Unpleasant:
- Clean quartz chamber
- Use fresh material
- Don't overpack
- Draw more slowly
Weak Flavor:
- Clean all components
- Use quality material
- Ensure proper combustion
- Check airpath for blockage
Warranty Information
The Pulsar APX Smoker V3 is covered by a 1-year manufacturer warranty.
Warranty Covers:
- Manufacturing defects
- Battery failure under normal use
- Electronic malfunctions
Warranty Does Not Cover:
- Physical damage
- Normal wear and tear
- Improper use damage
- Cosmetic damage
- Unauthorized modifications
Contact Pulsar support with proof of purchase for warranty service.
Tips for Best Results
Optimal Loading
- Use dry, quality material
- Break up evenly, not too fine
- Pack loosely for airflow
- Fill 3/4 full maximum
Session Technique
- Allow full heat-up before drawing
- Use slow, steady draws
- Stir mid-session for completeness
- Don't overheat - wastes material
Maintenance Habits
- Clean chamber while still warm
- Empty ash after each session
- Deep clean weekly
- Keep mouthpiece clear
Related: Pulsar APX Smoker V3 Review
