Zooka Frequently Asked Questions

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Zooka Frequently Asked Questions

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Does the Zooka throw real baseballs?

Yes. It throws regulations baseballs at speeds from 10 to 65+ MPH. It also throws many other types of balls

Is this machine safe?

Access to the machine is password protected. The machine is compatible with safety, soft-core, and tennis balls. It has no external moving parts. It can be shut down safely in the middle of a pitch by pressing any button on the keypad. It is powered by an internal 12 volt battery. No AC outlet, extension cord, or gasoline-powered generator is needed.

Does it require electricity?

The pitching machine is battery powered (cordless). It does not require an electrical plug-in to operate in the field. However, the user must plug it in to recharge after use.

How does the pitching machine work?

The operator places a ball on the front scoop of the machine and rolls it into the barrel. The machine detects the ball, pumps up to pressure, and throws the ball.

Does it throw regulations baseballs?

It will throw all regulation baseballs

What other types of balls does it throw?

In addition to real baseballs, the Zooka will throw safety baseballs, machine-pitch dimple balls, rubber sponge baseballs, soft-core baseballs and tennis balls.

How many pitches will it throw per charge?

The number of pitches varies with the speed and the weight of the ball. With real baseballs at 50 mph, the machine will throw over 500 pitches per charge. An external 12 volt battery can be used for extra capacity.

Would you recommend this unit for a youth machine-pitch league?

The Zooka Portable Pitching Machine is perfect for youth machine-pitch leagues. It is portable, accurate, and safe. It has provision for an additional external battery. Unlike other machines, it does not require extension cords or a generator at the playfield.

How do you know the speed of the pitch?

The Zooka measures and displays the speed of each pitch

How high does it throw ball?

It throws pop-ups over 12 stories high!

How long does it take to charge the battery?

The battery recharges to 80% of full charge within 6 hours, full charge overnight.

How do you know when the ball is being pitched?

When a ball is rolled into the machine, it pumps up to pressure for a few seconds and then throws the ball. Most batters quickly learn to anticipate the pitch. If necessary, the operator can help by synchronizing a throwing motion with each pitch.

What kids of pitches can it throw?

The machine throws fastballs and changeups at speeds from 10 to 65+ mph. The changeup mode randomly varies pitch speed to distribute pitches around the strike zone for game realistic pitching. The machine does not presently throw curveballs.

Who can use the Zooka?

The machine helps players of all ages to improve their hitting and fielding.

How much does it weigh?

It weighs 30 pounds, complete with tripod and internal battery. It is the lightest full-featured pitching machine available. It was designed for true portability and ease of use, anywhere you want to play.

How accurate is the Zooka?

It is very accurate. With real baseballs, pitches typically scatter within the strike zone. With machine-pitch dimple balls, pitches can be placed within a few inches.

Does it come with an auto feeder?

No, but an auto feeder is now available. It's easy to attach and holds 16 baseballs or 18 tennis balls.

Will it throw softballs?

This Zooka will not throw softballs. We are working on a softball model with comparable features.

How durable is the unit?

Our machine is designed and built to last. We use high-strength aluminum alloys for light weight structural elements and high-impact polycarbonate for the exterior housing.

How do I adjust the Zooka so that it hits the strike zone?

Our machine is designed and built to last. We use high-strength aluminum alloys for light weight structural elements and high-impact polycarbonate for the exterior housing.

What is included?

The Zooka pitching machine comes with a tripod, internal battery, and charger.

Can You use the Zooka for fielding practice?

Yes. The Zooka quickly adjusts for pop-ups, fly balls, line drives and outfield grounders. Because of its pinpoint accuracy and repeatability, it is ideal for a wide variety of fielding drills. Players rapidly gain skill through repetition.

What other prodcts or accessories are you going to offer?

We are currently looking at the following accessories/products:

• External battery Now Available - Only $99!
• Balls (balls that perform best in the Zooka) -$32.50 per dozen!

For information on any of the above call 1-800-487-7432 for details

Can you use this indoors?

Yes. We recommend that you use soft-core baseballs for indoor practice.

What is your warranty?

The machine is covered by a limited warranty for 12 months or 100,000 pitches. The battery warranty is for 6 months.

Where can I buy this pitching machine?

You can purchase it online at BaseballTips.com or toll-free at 1-800-487-7432.

How long does it take to set up the Zooka?

Setup takes less than one minute. No tools are required.

What do I do if I have a problem with the Zooka?

With proper care, the Zooka should give years of trouble-free use. Simple cleaning and battery charging after each use will prevent most problems. The Zooka has built-in self-diagnostics and displays error codes when error conditions occur. Users should then refer to the troubleshooting section of the owner's manual for advice on clearing common problems. A toll-free number is provided for your convenience.

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