The Chattanooga Primera™ TENS/NMES is a compact, dual-channel, over-the-counter electrical stimulation unit that combines TENS for temporary pain relief with NMES for stimulation of healthy muscles. With 14 preset programs, individually controlled channels, a portable battery-powered design, and Chattanooga’s distinctive HAN TENS waveform, Primera provides an easy-to-use option for users who want both pain-management and muscle-stimulation capabilities in one device.
Key Features & Benefits:
- 2-in-1 TENS & NMES Therapy: Combines Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) in one portable unit.
- 14 Preset Programs: Includes 8 TENS programs and 6 NMES programs, helping simplify treatment setup without requiring users to manually build stimulation parameters.
- Unique HAN TENS Waveform: Alternates low-frequency 2 Hz stimulation with higher-frequency 70 Hz stimulation in repeating phases for a distinctive TENS treatment option.
- Dual-Channel Output: Two individually isolated channels allow stimulation through multiple electrodes and independent intensity adjustment for each channel.
- Up to 80 mA Output: Both TENS and NMES modes provide adjustable stimulation from 0-80 mA into a 500-ohm load.
- Multiple TENS Modes: Preset options include Continuous, Burst, Modulated, and HAN TENS waveforms.
- Built-In Safety Features: Open-electrode detection automatically resets output current to zero when an open circuit is detected, while the LCD provides a low-battery warning.
- Portable 9V Operation: Compact, lightweight design operates from a replaceable 9-volt alkaline battery, making the unit convenient for home or on-the-go use.
Common Uses:
TENS Pain Relief
The Primera TENS programs are intended for temporary relief of pain associated with sore and aching muscles of the lower back, arms, and legs resulting from strain associated with normal, non-commercial household activities.
NMES Muscle Stimulation
The NMES programs are designed to stimulate healthy muscles in order to facilitate and improve muscle performance. Six preset NMES programs provide different stimulation rates and work/rest cycles for varied muscle-stimulation needs.
Why Choose The Chattanooga Primera?
Primera is a strong choice for users who want more versatility than a basic TENS unit without moving to a larger clinical electrotherapy system. Instead of purchasing separate pain-relief and muscle-stimulation devices, Primera combines TENS and NMES with 14 preset programs in one compact platform. Its dual-channel design, dedicated HAN waveform, straightforward controls, back electrode-positioning belt, replaceable battery, and complete accessory package make it especially convenient for ongoing home electrotherapy.
Program Comparison Chart
TENS Programs
P01 - Continuous TENS: 80 Hz, 200 µs, 1 hour
P02 - Continuous TENS: 150 Hz, 175 µs, 20 minutes
P03 - Continuous TENS: 2 Hz, 175 µs, 20 minutes
P04 - Burst TENS: 150 Hz, 200 µs, 1 hour
P05 - Burst TENS: 150 Hz, 175 µs, 1 hour
P06 - Modulated TENS: 100/65 Hz, 200/100 µs, 1 hour
P07 - Modulated TENS: 65/100 Hz, 200/100 µs, 1 hour
HAN TENS: Alternates 2 Hz at 250 µs and 70 Hz at 150 µs; 30-minute program.
NMES Programs
P08: 12 Hz, 200 µs, 5-sec work / 5-sec rest, 15 minutes
P09: 35 Hz, 250 µs, 8-sec work / 8-sec rest, 15 minutes
P10: 12 Hz, 200 µs, 5-sec work / 10-sec rest, 15 minutes
P11: 35 Hz, 200 µs, 6-sec work / 12-sec rest, 15 minutes
P12: 12 Hz, 250 µs, 5-sec work / 15-sec rest, 15 minutes
P13: 35 Hz, 200 µs, 6-sec work / 18-sec rest, 15 minutes.
TENS vs. NMES vs. HAN
Chattanooga Primera Therapy Comparison
Therapy Comparison: TENS vs. NMES vs. HAN TENS
The Chattanooga Primera combines TENS for temporary pain relief, NMES for muscle stimulation, and a specialized HAN TENS program that automatically alternates two TENS frequencies. The chart below highlights the practical differences for clinicians and home users.
TENS
Primary GoalTemporary pain relief
TargetsPrimarily sensory nerves involved in pain perception
How It WorksElectrical impulses help modify how pain signals are perceived
Primera ProgramsP01-P07: Continuous, Burst & Modulated TENS
Frequency2-150 Hz depending on program
Pulse WidthApprox. 100-250 µs depending on program
Typical FeelTingling, buzzing or pulsing; usually strong but comfortable
Muscle ContractionNot the primary objective
Best UseTemporary relief of qualifying sore and aching muscle pain
Best FitPain Management
NMES
Primary GoalMuscle stimulation & performance
TargetsMotor nerves and the muscles they activate
How It WorksStimulates motor nerves to create repeated muscle contractions
Primera ProgramsP08-P13: 6 preset NMES programs
Frequency12 Hz or 35 Hz
Pulse Width200 or 250 µs
Work / RestPreset contraction/recovery cycles from 5/5 sec. to 6/18 sec.
Typical FeelNoticeable stimulation with visible or palpable muscle tightening
Muscle ContractionYes — this is the intended purpose
Best FitMuscle Activation & Performance
HAN TENS
Primary GoalTemporary pain relief using alternating TENS frequencies
What It IsA specialized TENS program, not a separate NMES modality
How It DiffersAutomatically switches between low- and higher-frequency TENS phases
Low Phase2 Hz / 250 µs / 3 sec.
High Phase70 Hz / 150 µs / 3 sec.
Pattern2 Hz ? 70 Hz ? repeat automatically
Program Time30 minutes
Typical FeelRhythmically changing sensation as frequency alternates
Muscle ContractionMay be more noticeable at low frequency, but muscle training is not the goal
Best FitMulti-Frequency TENS Pain Management
Quick takeaway: TENS = Pain | NMES = Muscle | HAN = Specialized TENS that automatically alternates 2 Hz and 70 Hz stimulation. Program selection should follow the Primera User Manual and all applicable indications, warnings, precautions and contraindications.
Product Specifications:
Brand: Chattanooga
Product: Primera™ TENS/NMES with HAN Waveform
Device Type: Over-the-Counter TENS/NMES electrical stimulator
Channels: 2 individually isolated channels
Output Type: Constant current, 500-1,500 ohms
Amplitude: 0-80 mA into a 500-ohm load; actual output may vary with electrode/load impedance
Waveform: Asymmetrical, rectangular biphasic waveform with zero DC current
TENS Programs: 8
NMES Programs: 6
TENS Modes: Continuous, Burst, Modulated, and HAN
Continuous TENS Frequencies: 2, 80, or 150 Hz depending on program
NMES Frequencies: 12 or 35 Hz depending on program
NMES Pulse Width: 200 or 250 µs depending on program
HAN Parameters: 2 Hz / 250 µs followed by 70 Hz / 150 µs in repeating 3-second phases
Power: 9-volt alkaline battery
Low-Battery Indicator: Battery symbol flashes when voltage falls below approximately 6.9 V ±0.2 V
Open Electrode Detection: Output resets to 0 mA if an open circuit is detected on Channel A or B
Dimensions: 4.25" x 2.44" x 1.02" without belt clip; 1.25" thick with belt clip
Weight: Approximately 3.17oz without battery; 3.5oz with battery
Operating Temperature: 5°C to 40°C (41°F to 104°F)
Storage/Transport Temperature: -25°C to 70°C (-13°F to 158°F)
Warranty: 2 years for the original purchaser against defects in material, components, and workmanship; consumable items are excluded.
What's Included:
Primera™ TENS/NMES unit
Carrying case
9-volt battery
Lead wires
Electrodes
Electrode positioning belt for the lower back
User's manual.
Contraindications & Important Safety Information
-Do not use the Primera during pregnancy or suspected pregnancy.
-Do not use with demand-type cardiac pacemakers, defibrillators, or other implanted metallic or electronic devices.
-Do not apply stimulation over the carotid sinus region, neck, mouth, head, eyes, heart, or chest.
-The device should not be applied where there is a tendency to hemorrhage following acute trauma or fracture, following surgery when muscle contraction could interfere with healing, over areas lacking normal sensation, or over swollen, infected, or inflamed areas or skin eruptions.
-The manufacturer's instructions also identify epilepsy among the contraindicated medical conditions. Always read the complete instruction manual, warnings, precautions, electrode-placement guidance, and contraindications before use.
Warranty
The Chattanooga Primera is backed by a two-year manufacturer's limited warranty to the original purchaser covering defects in material, components, and workmanship from the date of purchase. Batteries, lead wires, the garment/electrode-positioning belt, and electrodes are considered consumable items and are not covered by the manufacturer's warranty.
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