The InTENSity Select Combo II, model DI2195, is a portable two-channel electrotherapy device with four selectable stimulation modes:
- TENS
- NMES
- Interferential, shown as IF
- Russian stimulation, shown as RUSS
This guide concentrates on operating the Select Combo II: connecting the electrodes, selecting a modality, choosing P1, P2, or U1, changing treatment parameters, starting and pausing output, unlocking the controls, charging the battery, and resolving common connection problems.
For product specifications, package contents, purchasing information, and general modality comparisons, visit the Select Combo II product page.
Prescription-device notice: Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician or licensed practitioner. The modality, electrode placement, program, intensity, treatment time and frequency should be determined as part of an appropriate treatment plan.
Quick answer: how do you unlock the Select Combo II?
The controls automatically lock after approximately 20 seconds without a button press during active treatment. Treatment normally continues at the current settings.
To unlock the device:
- Look for the key or lock symbol on the display.
- Press CH1− or CH2− once.
- Confirm that the lock symbol disappears.
- Make the required adjustment.
Use a channel-minus button rather than a plus button so the device can be unlocked without accidentally increasing stimulation intensity.
Select Combo II quick-reference table
| Feature | Select Combo II operation |
|---|---|
| Model | DI2195 |
| Channels | Two isolated output channels |
| Modalities | TENS, NMES, IF, and RUSS |
| Body-area buttons | Neck, shoulder, hand, low back, knee and foot |
| Programs per body area | P1, P2, and U1 |
| Total program combinations | 72 |
| Preset programs | P1 and P2 |
| Adjustable program | U1 |
| Treatment timer | Adjustable; range depends on modality |
| Intensity controls | Separate CH1 and CH2 buttons |
| Safety lock | Activates after about 20 seconds without input |
| Unlock command | Press CH1− or CH2− |
| Standby shutoff | Approximately three minutes without activity |
| Electrode detection | The affected channel resets to zero when an open circuit is detected at 10 mA or higher |
| Battery | Rechargeable 3.7V lithium battery pack |
| Charging time | Up to approximately six hours |
| Compliance records | Up to 60 individual records and 100 hours total |
| Supplied pad size | Four 2 × 2-inch electrodes |
The device combines four modes, six body-area groups, and three program choices for a total of 72 program combinations. The body-area buttons simplify navigation but do not prescribe safe electrode placement.
Understanding the buttons and display
| Button or indicator | Function | Important operating detail |
|---|---|---|
| Power | Turns the unit on; stops treatment; turns it off when held | Press and hold for approximately three seconds to power off |
| M/II | Cycles through TENS, NMES, IF, and RUSS; pauses or resumes treatment | Its function changes depending on whether treatment is active |
| S / Set | Opens settings and advances through adjustable parameters | The flashing unit shows which parameter is being changed |
| Body-area buttons | Select neck, shoulder, hand, low back, knee or foot | Repeated presses cycle through P1, P2, and U1 |
| CH1+ / CH1− | Increase or decrease Channel 1 intensity | CH1 also unlocks the controls |
| CH2+ / CH2− | Increase or decrease Channel 2 intensity | CH2 also unlocks the controls |
| Output sockets | Accept the two lead-wire plugs | One or both channels may be used |
| USB port | Connects the charging cable | The device cannot be used while charging |
| Charging LED | Indicates charging status | Red means charging; green means complete |
| Load indicator | Helps identify electrode-circuit status | Poor contact may cause the channel to reset |
| Battery symbol | Indicates low battery power | Stop and recharge when it appears |
| Compliance icon | Indicates treatment-record mode | Accessed from standby by holding M/II |
The front panel includes six body-area buttons rather than a scrolling body-part menu. The LCD displays the selected modality, body area, program, treatment time, channel intensity, pause or lock status, and mode-specific parameters.
Before beginning treatment
Obtain clear instructions for each item below before using the device for a medical or rehabilitation program.
| Treatment decision | Information needed |
|---|---|
| Modality | TENS, NMES, IF, or RUSS |
| Program | P1, P2, or U1 |
| Body-area group | Appropriate front-panel button |
| Electrode placement | Exact position of every pad |
| Number of channels | One pair or two pairs of electrodes |
| Intensity goal | Sensory stimulation or prescribed muscle contraction |
| Treatment time | Number of minutes |
| Treatment schedule | Sessions per day or week |
| U1 settings | Exact adjustable parameters, when applicable |
| Stop criteria | Pain, skin reaction or other symptoms requiring discontinuation |
The body-part icon is a program-navigation aid. For example, selecting “neck” does not permit electrodes to be placed over the throat, front of the neck, head, or face.
For a broader comparison of treatment goals, review our guide to choosing among TENS, NMES, interferential, and other modalities.
How to set up the InTENSity Select Combo II
1. Turn the device completely off
Do not connect, disconnect, or move electrodes while output is active.
2. Connect each lead wire to two electrodes
Insert the two metal pins from one lead wire into the electrode pigtails. Push each pin in fully so no bare metal remains exposed.
One channel requires a complete pair of electrodes. A single pad cannot complete the circuit.
3. Connect the lead wires to the device
Hold the insulated plug and insert it into Channel 1, Channel 2, or both sockets at the top of the device.
- Use one lead-wire set for a one-channel treatment.
- Use both lead-wire sets for a two-channel treatment.
- Do not leave an unused lead wire plugged into the unit.
The two channels have separate intensity controls but operate under the same selected modality and program.
4. Prepare the skin
Apply the electrodes only to clean, dry, intact skin.
Remove:
- Lotion
- Body oil
- Perspiration
- Dirt
- Residue from previous pads
Clip excessive hair when necessary. Avoid shaving immediately before treatment because small cuts or skin irritation can increase discomfort.
5. Apply the electrodes
Press the full gel surface of each pad onto the skin, including all edges.
Keep the electrodes at least one inch apart and do not allow them to overlap or touch. Do not apply them directly over the spine, throat, head, or across the chest.
6. Turn the device on
Press the Power button once.
7. Select the modality
Press M/II to cycle through:
- TENS
- NMES
- IF
- RUSS
Stop when the required modality appears along the bottom of the display.
8. Select the body-area group
Press the appropriate body-area button:
- Neck
- Shoulder
- Hand
- Low back
- Knee
- Foot
9. Select P1, P2, or U1
Continue pressing the same body-area button until the desired program appears.
10. Review or adjust the treatment time
Press S when the treatment time needs to be changed. Use the relevant plus or minus controls while the minute indicator is flashing.
11. Start output
Press CH1+ or CH2+ to begin stimulation on the connected channel.
Increase intensity one step at a time. Do not raise both channels rapidly before evaluating the sensation or muscle response.
What do P1, P2, and U1 mean?
| Program | Type | What the user normally changes |
|---|---|---|
| P1 | Manufacturer preset | Treatment time and channel intensity |
| P2 | Alternative manufacturer preset | Treatment time and channel intensity |
| U1 | Custom program | Mode-specific parameters, treatment time and channel intensity |
P1 and P2 use different preset parameter combinations for each body-area group. U1 allows a clinician or trained user to enter custom settings.
The complete preset-value charts do not need to be duplicated here because they are already available in the manufacturer manual and existing Balego product information. The operating distinction is more important:
- Choose P1 or P2 when the prescribed treatment uses a stored program.
- Choose U1 only when the required parameters are known.
- Intensity is always adjusted after the program has been selected.
Mode and program comparison
| Mode | General treatment behavior | U1 parameters available | Typical output goal |
|---|---|---|---|
| TENS | Sensory stimulation using adjustable pulse timing | Treatment time, pulse rate and pulse width | Strong but comfortable sensory response |
| NMES | Cycles muscle stimulation through contraction and rest phases | Time, rate, width, contraction, relaxation and ramp | Visible or palpable prescribed contraction |
| IF | Sweeps between selected lower and upper beat-frequency values | Time, pulse width, Beat Low, beat high, and cycle time | Clinician-directed interferential-style sensory treatment |
| RUSS | Medium-frequency burst stimulation with contraction and rest periods | Time, ramp, contraction and relaxation | Structured muscle contraction |
These descriptions explain how the controls differ; they are not treatment-setting recommendations. Detailed modality selection belongs in the clinical treatment plan and in our separate modality education resources. The manual identifies the available U1 controls for each mode.
How to use a TENS program
Using TENS P1 or P2
- Press M/II until TENS appears.
- Press the required body-area button.
- Continue pressing until P1 or P2 appears.
- Press S to change treatment time when needed.
- Confirm the selection.
- Press CH1+ or CH2+ to begin output.
- Increase intensity gradually.
TENS is normally adjusted to a strong but comfortable sensory sensation when that matches the clinician’s instructions. It should not feel sharp, burning, or unexpectedly painful.
For additional information about common TENS patterns, read TENS modes explained: Normal, Burst, Modulation, SD1, and SD2.
Programming TENS U1
- Select TENS.
- Select the body-area button.
- Continue pressing the button until U1 appears.
- Press S to edit treatment time.
- Press S again to edit pulse rate in Hz.
- Press S again to edit pulse width in µs.
- Confirm the program.
- Increase the required channel intensity gradually.
Do not confuse pulse rate or pulse width with intensity. The channel buttons control output strength after the program parameters have been entered.
How to use an NMES program
NMES is intended to produce a clinician-directed motor response rather than only a tingling sensation.
Using NMES P1 or P2
- Select NMES with M/II.
- Select the appropriate body area.
- Choose P1 or P2.
- Adjust treatment time when prescribed.
- Start Channel 1, Channel 2, or both.
- Increase intensity gradually until the required muscle response is produced.
The muscle will alternate between programmed contraction and relaxation phases. A periodic reduction in stimulation may therefore be normal rather than an output failure.
Programming NMES U1
Press S repeatedly to move through:
- Treatment time
- Pulse rate
- Pulse width
- Ramp time
- Contraction time
- Relaxation time
| NMES setting | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Pulse rate | Number of stimulation pulses delivered each second |
| Pulse width | Duration of each pulse |
| Ramp | How gradually stimulation increases and decreases |
| Contraction time | Duration of the active muscle-stimulation phase |
| Relaxation time | Recovery interval between contractions |
| Treatment time | Total session duration |
The relaxation period should not be shortened simply to produce more contractions. Inadequate recovery can increase fatigue and reduce the quality of later contractions.
How to use the IF program
The Select Combo II labels its interferential-style mode IF.
Using IF P1 or P2
- Press M/II until IF appears.
- Select the prescribed body-area group.
- Choose P1 or P2.
- Change treatment time when required.
- Confirm the program.
- Increase the connected channel intensity slowly.
Programming IF U1
The IF custom program permits adjustment of:
- Treatment time
- Pulse width
- Beat Low
- Beat High
- Sweep cycle time
The Beat Low and Beat High values define the frequency range through which the program sweeps. Cycle time determines how quickly that change occurs.
Do not copy settings from a different interferential device. Carrier frequency, beat-frequency behavior, electrode configuration, and parameter labels vary among units.
For more background, review our interferential current therapy guides.
How to use Russian stimulation
The RUSS mode uses a 2,500 Hz carrier delivered in bursts and is designed to create structured muscle-contraction cycles. It should be used cautiously because the resulting contraction can be substantially stronger than sensory-level TENS.
Using RUSS P1 or P2
- Select RUSS.
- Choose the prescribed body-area button.
- Select P1 or P2.
- Adjust treatment time when required.
- Start the appropriate channel.
- Increase intensity slowly while observing the contraction.
Programming RUSS U1
The manual RUSS program allows adjustment of the following:
- Treatment time
- Ramp-up and ramp-down time
- Contraction time
- Relaxation time
The carrier frequency and basic pulse-width behavior are not entered through the same U1 sequence.
A longer relaxation interval may be required when the goal involves a strong contraction or when the muscle fatigues quickly. The appropriate timing must come from the clinician rather than from perceived comfort alone.
Using one channel versus two channels
| Configuration | Connections | Intensity controls | Appropriate use |
|---|---|---|---|
| One channel | One lead wire and two electrodes | CH1 or CH2 controls | One localized electrode-pair setup |
| Two channels | Two lead wires and four electrodes | CH1 and CH2 adjusted separately | Larger area, bilateral placement or two prescribed electrode paths |
| Incomplete channel | Only one pad attached to a lead wire | No complete circuit | Incorrect setup |
| Unused channel connected | Lead plugged in without a complete pad pair | May trigger a load problem | Disconnect the unused lead |
Channel 1 and Channel 2 may have different intensity readings. Differences in anatomy, pad contact, and skin resistance can cause the same numeric setting to feel different between channels.
Do not assume that both channels must always be set to the same number.
How to pause, resume, stop and turn off treatment
| Desired action | Control |
|---|---|
| Pause treatment | Press M/II during active treatment |
| Resume treatment | Press M/II again |
| Stop and return to the home screen | Press Power once |
| Turn the unit off | Press and hold Power for approximately three seconds |
| Unlock the controls | Press CH1− or CH2− |
| Lower one channel only | Press that channel’s minus button |
When paused, the pause symbol appears on the screen. Return intensity to zero before repositioning or removing electrodes.
Safety lock, standby shutoff and electrode shutoff
These functions can look similar but have different causes.
| Device behavior | What it means | Correct response |
|---|---|---|
| A lock icon appears after about 20 seconds | Automatic safety lock | Press CH1− or CH2− |
| Treatment continues but buttons appear unresponsive | Controls are locked | Unlock before making changes |
| The device turns off after about three inactive minutes | Standby auto-off | Press Power to restart |
| One channel suddenly returns to zero | Open electrode circuit detected | Inspect that channel’s pads and wires |
| The device turns off when charger is connected | Charging safety function | Disconnect charger before use |
| The low-battery symbol appears | The battery needs charging | Stop treatment and recharge |
Why does the channel reset to zero?
When output is at least 10 mA, the Select Combo II automatically stops the affected channel if it detects that an electrode is not firmly attached or that the electrode/lead circuit has opened.
Common causes include:
- A pad lifting from the skin
- A lead pin not fully inserted
- A loose device plug
- A damaged lead wire
- A dry or contaminated pad
- Only one electrode connected to the channel
- Movement pulling on the cable
Turn intensity down before inspecting the circuit. Correct the connection and then restart from a low setting.
How to charge the Select Combo II
- Stop the treatment.
- Turn the device off.
- Disconnect it completely from the patient.
- Remove the lead wires from the output sockets.
- Connect the USB cable to the charging port.
- Connect the cable to the supplied charger or an approved USB power source.
- Confirm that the indicator light is red.
- Allow up to approximately six hours for a full charge.
- Confirm that the indicator has turned green.
- Disconnect the charger before using the device.
The device cannot be used while charging. Connecting the charger while it is operating causes it to shut off automatically. The manufacturer recommends charging the battery approximately once per month when the unit is used infrequently.
Charging-status table
| Indicator | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Red charging light | The battery is charging |
| Green charging light | Charging is complete |
| Low-battery icon on LCD | Stop treatment and recharge |
| The device shuts off when charger is connected | Normal charging safety behavior |
| The battery has short runtime when new or long-stored | Several charge/use cycles may be needed |
| The battery remains unable to hold a charge | The battery may require replacement or service |
Use the supplied or manufacturer-approved charger. Do not continue treatment with the charger connected.
How to review compliance records
The Select Combo II stores up to 60 individual treatment records and up to 100 hours of accumulated treatment time.
View individual records
- Place the device in standby.
- Press and hold M/II for approximately three seconds.
- Use the plus and minus buttons to move through the records.
- Review the record number and treatment time.
Delete one record
While the record is displayed, press and hold S for approximately three seconds.
Review accumulated treatment time
From the individual-record screen, press M/II to switch to the accumulated-record display.
Delete all accumulated records
Press and hold S for approximately three seconds.
Deletion is permanent. Document required treatment information before removing records.
Select Combo II troubleshooting guide
| Problem | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| The unit will not turn on | Battery depleted, incorrectly installed or disconnected | Recharge and inspect battery installation |
| Buttons stop responding during treatment | The safety lock has activated | Press CH1− or CH2− |
| The screen turns off after inactivity | Normal standby shutoff | Press Power to restart |
| One channel falls to zero | Pad lifted, lead disconnected or open circuit detected | Turn output down and inspect the complete channel |
| No sensation from one channel | Channel intensity is still zero, the circuit is incomplete or the lead is damaged | Confirm two pads are connected and increase the correct channel gradually |
| Stimulation feels weak | Low battery, poor adhesion, worn pad or loose lead | Recharge, prepare the skin and inspect electrodes and wires |
| Stimulation feels sharp | The pad edge is lifting, pad is too small, pads are too close or intensity is excessive | Stop or lower output and correct the setup |
| Output is intermittent | Loose or internally damaged lead wire | Reconnect, rotate the plug gently, and replace the lead if needed |
| One channel feels stronger | Unequal pad contact or skin resistance | Inspect adhesion and placement before changing intensity |
| NMES or RUSS periodically stops contracting | Programmed relaxation phase | Check the contraction and relaxation indicators |
| The unit shuts off during charging connection | Normal safety function | Disconnect charger before treatment |
| Battery runtime is initially short | New or long-stored battery pack | Complete several normal charge and use cycles |
| Pads do not stick | Lotion, oil, perspiration, hair or depleted gel | Clean and dry the skin or replace the pads |
| Skin becomes red or painful | Irritation, poor contact, repeated placement or worn electrode | Stop treatment and inspect the skin |
| Treatment seems ineffective | Incorrect placement, poor circuit or unsuitable program | Stop and review the setup with the treating professional |
The troubleshooting guide identifies depleted batteries, dry or contaminated electrodes, loose pads, damaged lead wires, excessive intensity, insufficient pad spacing, and undersized electrodes as common causes of poor or uncomfortable output.
Electrode selection and care
The Select Combo II includes four 2 × 2-inch reusable electrodes. Replacement pads must have the correct connector type and sufficient active surface area.
Useful options include:
- InTENSity 2 × 2-inch replacement electrodes
- Balego reusable TENS, NMES, and FES electrodes
- DURA-STICK PLUS electrodes
- Complete electrotherapy electrode collection
Replace a pad when it:
- Lifts around the edges
- No longer adheres across the full gel surface
- Has dried or contaminated gel
- Produces repeated stinging
- Has a cracked pigtail
- Disconnects intermittently
- Has been used by another person
After treatment
- Turn the unit off.
- Hold the electrode itself rather than pulling the wire.
- Peel the pad gently from the skin.
- Return it to its plastic liner.
- Seal it in its storage package.
- Store lead wires loosely without sharp bends.
Using a very small amount of water to reconstitute the supplied pad gel when it becomes dirty or difficult to attach. Follow the care directions supplied with the specific replacement electrode because hydrogel formulations vary.
Cleaning and storing the device
- Turn the device off.
- Disconnect the charger, lead wires, and electrodes.
- Wipe the housing with a soft, slightly damp cloth.
- Do not use benzene, thinner, or aggressive cleaning chemicals.
- Do not allow water to enter the housing or charging port.
- Let all components dry before storage.
- Store the device, pads, leads, and charger in a clean, dry location.
- Remove the battery pack when storing the unit for an extended period, following manufacturer guidance.
Do not immerse or sterilize the unit. The manufacturer states that routine sterilization of the device and accessories is not required.
Contraindications and essential warnings
The following table summarizes major manufacturer warnings. It does not replace the complete instructions or individual medical screening.
| Do not use the device | Reason or manufacturer warning |
|---|---|
| With a pacemaker, implanted defibrillator or other implanted electronic device | Electrical interference, shock, burns or dangerous rhythm disturbance may occur |
| With electronic life-support equipment | Stimulation may interfere with equipment operation |
| Near electronic monitoring equipment | ECG monitors and alarms may operate incorrectly |
| During pregnancy | Safety has not been established |
| On children or infants | The device has not been evaluated for pediatric use |
| On a person unable to communicate discomfort | Treatment response cannot be monitored safely |
| In the bath or shower | Electrical and water hazard |
| While sleeping | The user cannot adequately supervise treatment |
| While driving or operating machinery | Unexpected stimulation can create an injury risk |
| Over broken, infected, inflamed or swollen skin | Greater risk of irritation and uneven current |
| Over-skin without normal sensation | The user may not detect excessive stimulation |
| Over or near a cancerous lesion | Manufacturer-prohibited placement |
| On the head or face | Manufacturer-prohibited placement |
| Over the throat or front of the neck | Risk of airway spasm and cardiovascular effects |
| Across the chest or thorax | Electrical current may affect cardiac rhythm |
| Directly over the spine | Manufacturer-prohibited pad placement |
| Where a pad contacts metal jewelry or a belt buckle | May alter or concentrate current |
| Simultaneously on both calves or both soles | Manufacturer-prohibited configuration |
Caution with suspected heart disease, epilepsy, internal-bleeding risk, and recent surgery. Stimulation should be applied only to normal, intact, clean, and dry skin.
When to stop treatment
Stop the device and seek professional guidance for:
- Burning, stabbing or severe discomfort
- Blistering or a significant skin reaction
- Increasing pain
- New numbness or weakness
- Dizziness or faintness
- Shortness of breath
- Unexpected heart sensations
- An uncontrolled or painful contraction
- Repeated output interruptions
- Damage to the case, battery, charger or lead wires
- Any symptom outside the prescribed treatment response
Do not increase intensity to overcome a pad or connection problem.
Select Combo II compared with other devices
This comparison concentrates on operating workflow rather than repeating every product specification.
| Device | Modalities | Channels | Power | Operating distinction | Best fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| InTENSity Select Combo II | TENS, NMES, IF, RUSS | 2 | Rechargeable | Body-area presets plus U1 customization across four modalities | Compact all-in-one device for guided pain and muscle programs |
| Twin Stim IV | TENS, NMES | 2 | Rechargeable | Similar body-area workflow with fewer modalities | Users who do not need IF or Russian stimulation |
| Four-Channel Twin Stim Plus DS5402 | TENS, EMS/NMES, IFC, Russian | 4 | AA batteries or AC | Four independent channels and two treatment timers | Larger, bilateral or multiple-area setups |
| InTENSity IF Combo | TENS, IF | 2 | Portable power system | Focused pain-oriented TENS and IF workflow | Users who do not require NMES or Russian stimulation |
| IF-4000 Interferential Stimulator | IFC only | 2 | 9V battery or AC | Dedicated analog interferential controls | Users or clinics wanting a focused IFC device |
| Balego EMS Digital | NMES/EMS | 2 | 9V battery | Dedicated muscle-stimulation controls | Treatment plans centered on NMES rather than multiple modalities |
The Select Combo II is the more versatile two-channel choice when all four modalities are required. The Twin Stim IV offers a simpler interface for TENS and NMES, while the DS5402 provides more electrode coverage through four independent channels.
Frequently asked questions
How do I unlock the Select Combo II?
Press CH1− or CH2−. The safety lock activates after approximately 20 seconds without button activity during treatment.
Does treatment stop when the lock symbol appears?
No. The lock normally prevents accidental parameter or intensity changes while treatment continues.
Why can I not increase the intensity?
Check for the lock symbol first. Press a channel-minus button to unlock. When the affected channel has returned to zero, also inspect the electrodes and lead wires.
Can I use one channel?
Yes. Connect one complete electrode pair to Channel 1 or Channel 2 and raise only that channel’s intensity.
Can the channels have different intensity settings?
Yes. Channel 1 and Channel 2 are adjusted independently.
Can one channel run TENS while the other runs NMES?
No. Both active channels use the same selected modality and program, although their intensity levels can differ.
What is the difference between P1, P2, and U1?
P1 and P2 are stored manufacturer programs. U1 is the customizable program.
Why does the channel suddenly return to zero?
The device may have detected an open circuit at 10 mA or higher. Check for a lifted electrode, loose connector, damaged lead, or incomplete electrode pair.
Why does NMES or RUSS seem to switch off and on?
Those modes contain programmed contraction and relaxation phases. The lower-output interval may be a normal rest period.
Can the device be used while charging?
No. Disconnect the device from the patient and turn it off before charging.
How long does charging take?
A full charge may require up to approximately six hours. The indicator is red while charging and green when complete.
How many treatment records are stored?
The unit stores up to 60 individual treatment records and up to 100 hours of accumulated use.
Is IF the same as TENS?
No. They are separate selectable programs with different parameter structures. For a broader explanation, visit our interferential therapy collection and guides.
Is the Select Combo II the same as the older Select Combo?
No. This guide applies specifically to the rechargeable Select Combo II DI2195. Verify the model number before following these instructions.
Select Combo II products and support
Review the InTENSity Select Combo II product page, compare portable TENS units, browse NMES and muscle-stimulation devices, or shop replacement electrotherapy electrodes.
For help identifying compatible electrodes, lead wires, or the most appropriate electrotherapy device, contact Balego.
