PMI SUPPORT · SMOKEGENIE
SmokeGENIE Support
Tutorial videos, troubleshooting answers and technical specifications for SmokeGENIE.
Text Manual
Available in multiple languages
LEARN SMOKEGENIE
Tutorial Videos
12 unique SmokeGENIE tutorial videos, organized by topic with no duplicates.
Set Up Your SmokeGENIE
Official PMI SmokeGENIE tutorial playlist
Recommended Settings
Official PMI SmokeGENIE tutorial playlist
PRO MODE
Official PMI SmokeGENIE tutorial playlist
Storing Your SmokeGENIE
Official PMI SmokeGENIE tutorial playlist
Default Setting – Pro Kit Remote
Official PMI SmokeGENIE tutorial playlist
Default Setting – Event Kit Remote
Official PMI SmokeGENIE tutorial playlist
Advanced Remote Function – Pair & Erase
Official PMI SmokeGENIE tutorial playlist
Advanced Remote Function – Control Settings
Official PMI SmokeGENIE tutorial playlist
PMI Magic Remote Tutorial
Official PMI SmokeGENIE tutorial playlist
Remote & Additional Tutorials
Pairing Multiple Units of SmokeGENIE
Official PMI SmokeGENIE tutorial playlist
SmokeGENIE Chamber Extension Cable
Official PMI SmokeGENIE tutorial playlist
Genie Trident – Installation Tutorial
Official PMI SmokeGENIE tutorial playlist
FAQ & Troubleshooting
Smoke Output
Why does SmokeGENIE show “TIME OUT”?
“TIME OUT” is the heating unit’s protection warning. Stop the output and check the liquid supply before trying again.
- Return SmokeGENIE to an upright position.
- Switch the machine off and let the chamber cool.
- Check the liquid level. Refill with the correct PMI formula if it is below one-third.
- Check that the chamber and machine contacts are clean and dry, then reinstall the chamber securely.
- Let the machine recover, then try a short burst while holding it upright.
Using smoke levels 6–10 in PRO Mode? These settings are for short, intense bursts. Let the warning clear before restarting; use levels 1–5 for longer output.
If “TIME OUT” returns straight away, stop testing and email cs@pmigear.com. Include the chamber model and tell us whether the smoke is normal, thin, gurgling or spitting.
Why is the smoke weak when I point SmokeGENIE downward?
Liquid may not be reaching the heating unit while the machine is tilted down.
- Use short downward bursts.
- Return the machine upright between bursts so liquid can feed back into the chamber.
- For sustained downward smoke, keep the machine upright and use a compatible adapter or nozzle to direct the output.
Do not hold the machine upside down for a long burst. If it also spits, gurgles or produces thin smoke when upright, follow the cleaning steps in the Chamber tab.
Why does SmokeGENIE stop during a long burst?
Check the smoke level and the message on the screen.
- Levels 1–5: intended for longer output. Check the liquid level, battery charge and chamber if the machine stops.
- Levels 6–10 (PRO Mode): intended for short, intense bursts. Let a protection warning clear before restarting.
Some SmokeGENIE units have a 120-second continuous-output safety limit. Check the manual for your unit before changing this setting. Battery runtime and liquid runtime are separate from a single continuous burst.
What should I do if the output is weak in cold weather?
Below 10°C, fog liquid flows less easily and may trigger a protection warning.
- Check that the chamber is filled above one-third.
- Set SmokeGENIE to Smoke Level 1 and Wind Level 5, then run it for about 1 minute.
- Try a short burst at your usual setting. Stop if the protection warning returns.
Alternatively, switch the machine off, let the chamber cool, then remove it and leave it in a warm area above 20°C for 5 minutes before reinstalling.
Can I use SmokeGENIE to create haze?
Yes. Use SmokeGENIE with the compatible Haze Fan to spread the smoke into a fine haze.
Start with a short burst and allow the haze to spread before adding more. Room size, airflow and ventilation affect how quickly the effect builds up.
Check the venue’s smoke-detector rules before you begin.
Battery & Charging
Why is SmokeGENIE not charging?
Start with the power supply, cable and batteries. A full charge normally takes about 3 hours.
- Use a 5 V / 2 A USB power supply and the supplied USB-C cable.
- Switch the machine off and disconnect the charging cable.
- Remove and reinstall both batteries, matching the polarity markings.
- Use two flat-top, unprotected 18650 cells. Check that the contacts are clean and dry.
- Reconnect the cable. If charging still fails, try another working cable and power supply.
- If available, test with a working, compatible pair of batteries.
Still not charging? Email cs@pmigear.com and describe what the charging indicator does when the cable is connected.
How long should a full battery charge last?
These are approximate total output times across multiple bursts, rather than the length of one continuous burst.
- Smoke Level 5: about 36 minutes.
- Smoke Level 4: about 46 minutes.
- Smoke Level 3: about 62 minutes.
- Smoke Level 2: about 120 minutes.
- Smoke Level 1: about 180 minutes.
If you get much less output at the same setting, fully charge both cells and test again. If available, compare with a working, compatible matched pair.
A full battery and a full chamber can run out at different times. Check the liquid level as well as the battery indicator.
Chamber & Liquid
My upgraded Chamber 3.0 spits or gurgles. How do I clear it?
If you have upgraded SmokeGENIE to PMI Fog Chamber 3.0 with Cloud Formula, follow these steps.
Spitting, gurgling or thin smoke can mean excess liquid is trapped in the AERO MESH. Drain it before your next shot.
- Remove all nozzles from the machine.
- Place a napkin at the machine’s mouth to catch the liquid.
- Turn the machine upside down and spray into the napkin for 5 seconds.
- Give the machine a slight shake if needed. Repeat the 5-second drain until the excess liquid is out and normal smoke density returns.
- Return the machine upright and refit the correct nozzle for normal use.
This is a short cleaning procedure. Do not keep the machine inverted for long bursts.
If draining does not restore normal output, stop and email cs@pmigear.com with the chamber model and the symptoms.
What should I do if Chamber 2.0 spits liquid or makes thin smoke?
Excess liquid in the heating unit can cause spitting. Use this procedure for PMI Fog Chamber 2.0, also known as the Shock-Proof Chamber.
- Switch the machine off. Let the chamber cool, then remove it.
- Make sure the silicone refill cap is fully closed.
- Wipe the outside of the chamber clean.
- Place the chamber upside down on a napkin for 2 minutes.
- Tap it gently a few times to release the remaining liquid.
- Check that the contacts are clean and dry, reinstall the chamber, then test a short upright burst.
If the problem remains, try another working Chamber 2.0 if you have one. If the replacement works normally, the original chamber may need replacing.
Images from PMI’s troubleshooting guide.
What should I check if the chamber is not detected?
Check the chamber connection before replacing any parts.
- Switch the machine off and let the chamber cool.
- Remove the chamber and check that the contacts on both the chamber and machine are clean and dry.
- Reinstall it securely, then switch the machine on and test again.
- If the problem remains, try another working compatible chamber if available.
If neither chamber is detected, email cs@pmigear.com and tell us which chambers you tested.
Which chamber and formula should I use with SmokeGENIE?
- Original setup: PMI Fog Chamber 2.0 (Shock-Proof Chamber) with Cloud Formula.
- Chamber upgrade: PMI Fog Chamber 3.0 with Cloud Formula.
Vanishing Formula and the Vanishing Formula Chamber are not for SmokeGENIE.
How do I refill the chamber?
Refill when the liquid level drops below one-third. Chamber capacity is 8.5 mL.
- Stop the output and let the chamber cool.
- Lift the silicone refill cap.
- Add PMI Cloud Formula.
- Close the silicone cap firmly and wipe away any spilled liquid.
- Check that the chamber is fitted securely before using the machine.
Images from PMI’s troubleshooting guide.
How long should one chamber refill last?
A full chamber holds 8.5 mL. The following figures are approximate total output from the liquid, across multiple bursts.
- Chamber 3.0: about 18 minutes for Fog, Dry Ice or Haze.
- Chamber 2.0: about 15 minutes for Fog, Dry Ice or Haze.
- Steam: about 90 minutes.
These are liquid-runtime figures. They do not extend the machine’s battery runtime or continuous-burst limit.
What should I do if the chamber leaks?
- Stop using the machine and let the chamber cool.
- Check that the silicone refill cap is fully closed.
- Wipe away the liquid and inspect the chamber for damage.
- If liquid is collecting at the outlet, follow the cleaning procedure for your chamber in this tab.
- Check that the contacts are dry before reinstalling the chamber.
If liquid continues to leak, stop using that chamber. Email cs@pmigear.com with a photo and the chamber model.
How should I store the chamber and leftover formula?
If you will not use the chamber for more than 24 hours:
- Switch the machine off and let the chamber cool completely.
- Remove the chamber and close its refill cap.
- Store it in its airtight capsule. You can leave the correct formula inside.
- Close refill bottles tightly and keep them at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
When should I replace the chamber?
Replace a damaged chamber, or one that still performs poorly after the correct cleaning and connection checks.
- A persistent burnt or unusual smell.
- Very weak output or repeated protection warnings.
- Physical damage or leaking that does not stop.
To replace it, switch the machine off, let the chamber cool fully, then remove it. Check the contacts, fit a compatible replacement securely and fill it with the correct PMI formula before testing.
Not sure whether the chamber is the cause? Email cs@pmigear.com with its model, approximate age and the checks you have tried.
Can I use third-party fog liquid?
No. Use the PMI formula specified for SmokeGENIE and its chamber. Other fog liquids may not work correctly and can cause unwanted output or damage.
Remote & Accessories
How do I pair Standard Remote V2 with SmokeGENIE?
Use these steps for Standard Remote V2. Magic Remote uses a different button sequence.
- Switch SmokeGENIE off and back on.
- Within 30 seconds, hold the remote’s Pair button for 5 seconds.
- Press On once.
- Press Off three times.
If the machine does not respond, test close to it and check the remote’s 23A 12V battery. Replace a weak battery, then repeat the sequence.
How do I clear Standard Remote V2 pairings?
This clears all remote pairings stored on the machine. You will need to pair the remotes you want to use again.
- Hold UNPAIR until the machine’s remote indicator flashes.
- Follow the Standard Remote V2 pairing steps above for each remote you want to use.
This does not erase the Haze Nozzle’s separate Bluetooth connection.
How do I pair Magic Remote with SmokeGENIE?
Choose the Magic Remote button you want to use, then pair it with the machine.
- Switch SmokeGENIE off and back on.
- Within 30 seconds, hold C + D together for 5 seconds.
- Check that the SET indicator turns on.
- Press your chosen button 4 times.
If the button still does not trigger the machine, test close to it, check the remote battery and repeat the sequence. If pairing works but output behaves differently from expected, check the selected control mode.
Each SmokeGENIE can store up to 4 paired remote buttons.
Images from PMI’s troubleshooting guide.
How do I erase Magic Remote buttons from the machine?
This erases every Magic Remote button paired with this machine. Pair a button again before trying to control it remotely.
- Switch SmokeGENIE off and back on.
- Within 30 seconds, hold A + B together for 5 seconds.
- The SET indicator flashes to confirm that the stored buttons have been erased.
How do Magic Remote control modes work?
- Trigger: hold the paired button to produce smoke; release it to stop.
- Continuous: press the paired On button to start and the paired Off button to stop.
- Pulse: the machine produces repeating 3-second pulses until you press Off.
- 3-second burst: one press produces a 3-second burst.
For Continuous or Pulse, pair separate start and stop buttons first. Enter Pair Mode, then press the intended On button once and the intended Off button three times.
Choose a mode
Switch the machine off and back on. Within 30 seconds, hold the matching combination for 5 seconds:
- B + C: Trigger.
- B + D: Continuous.
- A + C: Pulse.
- A + D: 3-second burst.
Check the liquid level before use. Continuous mode still follows the machine’s normal burst and protection limits.
Watch: Magic Remote control settings
Can I control more than one machine with Magic Remote?
Yes. Pair the same button with each machine you want to trigger together. Pair different buttons when you want separate control.
- Set up and pair one machine at a time.
- Repeat the pairing steps on the next machine using the intended button.
- Test every machine before the shoot, including the Off button if you use Continuous or Pulse mode.
Venues
Will SmokeGENIE trigger a smoke detector?
Yes. Cloud Formula will trigger smoke detectors. Confirm the detector type and the venue’s requirements before using fog.
- Get approval from the venue before your shoot.
- Never spray directly at a smoke detector.
- Do not disable, cover or bypass fire-safety equipment.
Vanishing Formula requires a compatible SmokeNINJA PRO or PRO V2 setup with the VF Chamber and Amplifier Nozzle. It is not an option for SmokeGENIE.
Safety
How close can I use SmokeGENIE to people?
Keep the nozzle at least 0.5 m / 50 cm away from people.
Do not point the smoke directly at anyone. Position the output to create the effect around your scene while maintaining that distance.
Can I touch or change the chamber straight after use?
Let the chamber cool completely before handling it. Switch the machine off before removing, cleaning or replacing the chamber.
Stop using a chamber that is damaged, leaks persistently or produces a burnt smell. Check the Chamber tab for the next steps.
Specifications
MACHINE & POWER
Effects & output settings
Fog · Dry Ice · Steam · Haze Standard mode: 5 smoke × 5 pump levels (25 settings). PRO mode: 10 smoke × 10 pump levels (100 settings).
Machine battery
2 × 18650 batteries Flat-top, unprotected · at least 3,000 mAh and 10 A each
USB-C charging 5 V / 2 A power supply
About 3 hours
RUNTIME
Battery runtime Total output per full charge
Level 5
About 36 min
Level 4
About 46 min
Level 3
About 62 min
Level 2
About 120 min
Level 1
About 180 min
Fog Chamber 2.0 Total output per refill
Fog / Dry Ice / Haze
About 15 min
Steam
About 90 min
Fog Chamber 3.0 Total output per refill
Fog / Dry Ice / Haze
About 18 min
Steam
About 90 min
CHAMBER & FORMULA
Original chamber
PMI Fog Chamber 2.0 Previously called the Shock-Proof Chamber.
Chamber upgrade
PMI Fog Chamber 3.0 (AERO MESH) Use with Cloud Formula.
Capacity per chamber
8.5 mL
Formula compatibility
PMI Cloud Formula
Vanishing Formula is not compatible with SmokeGENIE.
ACCESSORIES
Remote controls
Standard Remote V2 + Magic Remote
Standard Remote V2: 1 × 23A 12 V battery. Magic Remote: 4 channels (A, B, C and D).
SAFETY & WARRANTY
Distance from people
At least 0.5 m (50 cm)
Keep this distance between the nozzle and people. Never aim the output directly at anyone.
Warranty
International: 2 years. Mainland China: 1 year. Chambers are consumables. Contact support if a chamber arrives damaged.