TB200/TB300/TB400 Series Ninja Detect™ Power Blender & Kitchen System FAQs

This article contains the TB200 Series Ninja Detect™ Power Blender FAQs. This supports the following SKUs: TB201, TB301 and TB401. 

Main Visual

 

Set-Up

How do I install and remove the pitcher from the motor base?

Lower the pitcher onto the motor base. The handle should be aligned slightly to the right and the pitcher should be oriented so the LOCK symbols are visible on the motor base. Rotate the pitcher clockwise until it clicks into place. You can also install the pitcher with the handle on the left. To remove the pitcher from the motor base, turn the pitcher counterclockwise and then lift it up.

How do I install and remove the pitcher’s lid?

Place the lid on the pitcher. Press down on the handle until it clicks into place. Once the lid is locked in place, press the Power button to turn on the unit. The BlendSense™ program will illuminate on the dial. The lid must be locked in place for the unit to operate. The dial will show INSTALL if the pitcher and lid are not correctly installed. To remove the lid, press the RELEASE button and lift the handle.

How do I install and remove the stacked blade assembly?

Exercising care, grasp the stacked blade assembly by the top of the shaft and place it onto the drive gear in the pitcher. Note that the stacked blade assembly will fit loosely on the drive gear. Exercise care when handling the blade assembly, as the blades are sharp. To remove the stacked blade assembly, carefully grasp it by the top of the shaft and pull it straight up. Exercise care when handling the blade assembly, as the blades are sharp.

How do I know if the stacked blade assembly is installed correctly?

When installing the stacked blade assembly, it will fit loosely on the drive gear. There is no audible click when it is properly installed, but it is secure.

How do I move the motor base from my countertop?

To move the motor base, grip both sides of the base and lift straight up to release the suction cups.

 

How to Operate

How do I use the unit?

Press the Power button to turn on the unit. The BlendSense™ program will illuminate on the dial. 

If using the BlendSense™ program, simply press the dial. The program will automatically stop when complete. To stop the unit at any time, press the dial again. 

If using a Processing Mode program, select MODE, then use the dial to select your desired program. To start the program, press the dial. The program will automatically stop when complete. To stop the unit at any time, press the dial again. 

If using a Manual program, select MANUAL, then use the dial to select your desired speed. To start, press the dial. When ingredients have reached your desired consistency, press the dial again or wait 60 seconds for the unit to come to a complete stop on its own. 

Press PULSE to pulse the motor. Operates only when PULSE is pressed.

How do I start a program?

Press the dial to start any program.

How do I stop a program?

Press the dial to stop any program at any time.

What is BlendSense™ Technology?

BlendSense™ Technology is an intelligent program that revolutionizes traditional blending by sensing your ingredients and blending to perfection every time. It automatically adjusts speed and time for perfectly smooth results. The program identifies fresh or frozen ingredients and recipe size, then automatically adjusts time, speed, and power for perfect results. 

What is the Processing Mode program?

TB200/TB200C: The Processing Mode program is a smart preset program that combines unique pausing patterns that chop for you. Use CHOP for cutting ingredients into bite-sized pieces. 

TB201/TB201C: Processing Mode programs are smart preset programs that combine unique pausing patterns that process for you. Use LARGE CHOP for cutting ingredients into bite-sized pieces. Use SMALL CHOP for precision chopping. Use MINCE for the finest level of chopping. 

TB300/TB300C: The Processing Mode program is a smart preset program that combines unique pausing patterns that chop for you. Use CHOP for cutting ingredients into bite-sized pieces. 

TB301/TB301C: Processing Mode programs are smart preset programs that combine unique pausing patterns that process for you. Use LARGE CHOP for cutting ingredients into bite-sized pieces. Use SMALL CHOP for precision chopping. Use MINCE for the finest level of chopping. 

TB400/TB400C: The Processing Mode program is a smart preset program that combines unique pausing patterns that chop for you. Use CHOP for cutting ingredients into bite-sized pieces. 

TB401/TB401C: Processing Mode programs are smart preset programs that combine unique pausing patterns that process for you. Use LARGE CHOP for cutting ingredients into bite-sized pieces. Use SMALL CHOP for precision chopping. Use MINCE for the finest level of chopping. Use DISC for slicing and shredding with the reversible slicing/shredding disc.

What are Manual programs?

TB200/TB200C: Manual programs (Low, Medium, and High) are adjustable speeds for total blending control. When selected, each speed runs continuously for 60 seconds. 

TB201/TB201C: Manual programs (Speeds 1–10) are adjustable speeds for total blending control. When selected, each speed runs continuously for 60 seconds.

TB300/TB300C: Manual programs (Low, Medium, and High) are adjustable speeds for total blending control. When selected, each speed runs continuously for 60 seconds. 

TB301/TB301C: Manual programs are adjustable speeds for total blending control. When selected, each speed runs continuously for 60 seconds. Variable speed controls (Speeds 1–10) are available when using the pitcher. Low, Medium, and High speeds are available when using the single-serve cup. 

TB400/TB400C: Manual programs (Low, Medium, and High) are adjustable speeds for total blending control. When selected, each speed runs continuously for 60 seconds. 

TB401/TB401C: Manual programs are adjustable speeds for total blending control. When selected, each speed runs continuously for 60 seconds. Variable speed controls (Speeds 1–10) are available when using the pitcher. Low, Medium, and High speeds are available when using the single-serve cup and food processor bowl.

How long do Manual speeds run for?

When selected, each speed runs continuously for 60 seconds. Press the dial again to stop the program sooner.

Can I blend hot or carbonated liquids and ingredients?

DO NOT blend hot, effervescent, or carbonated liquids. Doing so may cause excessive pressure buildup, resulting in the risk of laceration and/or the user being burned.

What does the BlendSense™ button do?

BlendSense is an intelligent one-touch program that senses ingredients and blends to perfection. When powering on the unit, the BlendSense program will be active by default. Press the dial to begin the program.

What does the Mode button do?

Modes are preset processing programs that process and chop for you. 

What does the Manual button do?

The Manual setting is an adjustable speed for total blending control. 

What does the Pulse button do?

This pulses the motor on and off. It operates only when PULSE is pressed. 

What does the number on the dial mean?

- For the BlendSense™ program, once the blending possibility is selected, the runtime will count down on the display in seconds. 
- For Processing Mode programs, the number of seconds is displayed for each program’s runtime. 
- For Manual programs, once the speed is selected, runtime will count up on the display in seconds. 

What should I use the BlendSense™ program for?

The BlendSense™ program is best used to achieve smooth blends such as smoothies, frozen drinks, smoothie bowls, dips, purees, and sauces.

What will the dial show during the BlendSense™ program?

In the first 15 seconds, SENSING will display on the dial during initial blending as the unit actively adjusts speed and time based on the ingredients and recipe size used.

Next, the unit will display the blending possibility it automatically chooses for perfect results. BLENDING will appear for continuous blending without pulsing. CRUSH or MAX-CRUSH will appear for crushing through tougher and frozen ingredients with a unique pulsing pattern for a smooth blend. THICK MODE will appear to create thick spoonable results. DOUGH* will appear for processing doughs and batters, including pie, pizza, and cookie dough. Program runtime will count down on the display in seconds. 

When the program is complete, START/STOP will display. 

*Dough available on TB40x only

How long is the BlendSense™ program?

Once the BlendSense™ program senses and chooses a blending possibility, runtime will count down on the display in seconds. Total time varies from several seconds up to almost two minutes.

Can I select a setting for the BlendSense™ program?

No, you cannot select a setting for the BlendSense™ program. The program will automatically choose the blending possibility, including blending speed, time, and pulses.

Can I process or grind dry ingredients?

DO NOT process dry ingredients or perform grinding operations. 

What is the difference between a smoothie and a smoothie bowl?

Smoothie bowls are thicker and spoonable, compared to smoothies, which are thinner and drinkable. Examples of thick spoonable recipes are smoothie bowls, hummus, pesto, and nut butter. Examples of drinkable recipes are smoothies, protein drinks, and green drinks. 

 

Cleaning/Maintenance

How do I clean the unit?

Hand-Washing:

Wash blade assemblies in warm, soapy water using a dishwashing utensil with a handle to avoid direct contact with the blades. Exercise care when handling blade assemblies, as the blades are sharp. Thoroughly rinse and air-dry all parts. 

Dishwashing:

Accessories are top-rack dishwasher safe but should NOT be cleaned with a heated dry cycle. Ensure the blade assemblies are removed from their containers before placing them in the dishwasher. Exercise care when handling blade assemblies. 

Cleaning the Motor Base:

Turn off the unit and unplug the motor base before cleaning. Wipe the motor base with a clean, damp cloth. DO NOT use abrasive cloths, pads, or brushes to clean the base.

Are all parts dishwasher safe?

All parts except the motor base are top-rack dishwasher safe and should NOT be cleaned with a heated dry cycle.

Can I clean the accessories by adding water to them?

For best results, use a dishwasher to remove stuck-on ingredients from accessories or wash them by hand. 

To clean the accessories by adding water, rinse the container and blade assembly under warm water after blending or processing. Fill the container with warm water and add 1 or 2 small drops of dish soap. Install on the motor base and run the BlendSense™ program. When the program is complete, empty the contents and rinse parts under warm water. 

 

Display Messages

Why does the dial display INSTALL when unit is connected to power?

The dial will show INSTALL if no vessel is installed or if a vessel is installed incorrectly. To resolve this, reinstall the vessel. Press the Power button to turn on the unit. The BlendSense™ program will illuminate, indicating the unit is ready for use.

Why does the dial display “E1”?

If the display reads “E1,” unplug the unit from the electrical outlet and allow it to cool for 15 minutes. Remove the container’s lid and blade assembly and empty the contents to ensure no ingredients are jamming the blade assembly.

Why does the dial display ADD LIQUID during the BlendSense™ Program? (TB30x/TB40x only)

This is an alert that liquid is needed during blending to completely process your recipe, so you get a perfectly smooth drink every time. When using the single-serve cup, this illuminates if, during blending, your recipe requires more liquid to blend. Press START/STOP and remove the cup from the base. Add 1/2 to 1 cup of liquid. Reinstall the cup, then press START/STOP to run the BlendSense program again.

 

Other

Why is the unit not mixing well/Why are ingredients getting stuck?

Using the BlendSense™ program is the easiest way to achieve great results. The pulses and pauses allow ingredients to settle toward the blade assembly. If ingredients are routinely getting stuck, adding some liquid will usually help. When filling the vessel, start with liquids or yogurt, followed by fresh fruit or veggies, then leafy greens or herbs. Next add seeds, powders, or nut butters. Finally, add ice or frozen ingredients.

Why won’t the motor base stick to my counter or tabletop?

Make sure the surface and suction feet are wiped clean. Suction feet will only stick to smooth surfaces. Suction feet will not stick on some surfaces such as wood, tile, and non-polished finishes. DO NOT attempt to use the unit when the motor base is stuck to a surface that is not secure (cutting board, platter, plate, etc.).

Why is the unit difficult to remove from my counter or tabletop for storage?

Place your hands underneath both sides of the motor base and gently pull the unit up and toward you.

Why are ingredients not evenly chopped?

For best results when chopping, cut ingredients in a uniform size and don’t overfill the vessel.

 

Pitcher

What is the maximum capacity of the pitcher?

The total maximum capacity of the pitcher is 72 ounces. The maximum liquid capacity is 64 ounces. 

In what order should I add ingredients to the pitcher?

First, start by pouring in liquid or yogurt. For thinner results or a juice-like drink, add more liquid. Second, add the desired number of fresh fruits and vegetables (for best results, cut in 1-inch pieces). Third, add up to 1 cup of leafy greens and herbs (optional). Fourth, add 2–4 tablespoons of any dry or sticky ingredients like seeds, powders, and nut butter (optional). Last, top off with ice or frozen ingredients. 

What programs can I use with the pitcher?

TB200/TB200C: The BlendSense™ program; Low, Medium, and High speeds; Pulse; and the Processing Mode program CHOP can be used with the pitcher and stacked blade assembly. 

TB201/TB201C: The BlendSense™ program; Variable Speed Control (Speeds 1–10); Pulse; and the Processing Mode programs LARGE CHOP, SMALL CHOP, and MINCE can be used with the pitcher and stacked blade assembly. 

TB300/TB300C: The BlendSense™ program; Low, Medium, and High speeds; Pulse; and the Processing Mode program CHOP can be used with the pitcher and stacked blade assembly. 

TB301/TB301C: The BlendSense™ program; Variable Speed Control (Speeds 1–10); Pulse; and the Processing Mode programs LARGE CHOP, SMALL CHOP, and MINCE can be used with the pitcher and stacked blade assembly. 

TB400/TB400C: The BlendSense™ program; Low, Medium, and High speeds; Pulse; and the Processing Mode program CHOP can be used with the pitcher and stacked blade assembly. 

TB401/TB401C: The BlendSense™ program; Variable Speed Control (Speeds 1–10); Pulse; and the Processing Mode programs LARGE CHOP, SMALL CHOP, and MINCE can be used with the pitcher and stacked blade assembly. 

Why won’t the pitcher lid handle fold down?

The handle will not fold down if the lid isn’t attached to the pitcher. For storage, place the lid on the pitcher and press down on the handle until it clicks in place.

 

Single-Serve Cup

*Applicable on TB30x and TB40x series only

How do I install and remove the single-serve cup from the motor base?

Turn the cup upside down and install it on the motor base. Align the tabs on the cup with the slots on the base, then rotate the cup clockwise until it clicks into place. Once the cup is locked in place, press the Power button to turn the unit on. The BlendSense™ program will illuminate. The cup must be locked into place for the unit to operate. The dial will show INSTALL if the single-serve cup is not correctly installed. To remove the single-serve cup from the motor base, turn the cup counterclockwise and then lift.

How do I install and remove the single-serve cup’s spout lid?

To enjoy your drink on the go, place the spout lid on the top of the single-serve cup. Twist the lid clockwise until it’s sealed tightly. To remove the spout lid, twist it counterclockwise and then lift it from the cup.

How do I install and remove the single-serve cup’s Hybrid Edge™ Blades Assembly?

Place theHybrid Edge™ Blades Assembly on the top of the single-serve cup. Twist the lid clockwise until it’s sealed tightly. Exercise care when handling the blade assembly, as the blades are sharp. Remove the Hybrid Edge Blades Assembly by twisting the cap counterclockwise. DO NOT store blended contents with blade assembly attached. Exercise care when handling the blade assembly, as the blades are sharp.

What is the maximum capacity of the single-serve cup?

The total maximum capacity of the single-serve cup is 24 ounces. The maximum liquid capacity is 16 ounces. 

In what order should I add ingredients to the single-serve cup?

First, start by pouring in liquid or yogurt. For thinner results or a juice-like drink, add more liquid. Second, add the desired number of fresh fruits and vegetables (for best results, cut in 1-inch pieces). Third, add up to 1 cup of leafy greens and herbs (optional). Fourth, add 2–4 tablespoons of any dry or sticky ingredients like seeds, powders, and nut butter (optional). Last, top off with ice or frozen ingredients. 

What programs can I use with the single-serve cup? 

The BlendSense™ program; Low, Medium, and High speeds; and Pulse can be used with the single-serve cup and Hybrid Edge™ Blades Assembly. 

Why is the lid/Hybrid Edge™ Blades Assembly hard to install on the cup? 

Set the cup on a level surface. Carefully place the lid or Hybrid Edge Blades Assembly on the top of the cup and align the threads so the lid or blade assembly sits flat on the cup. Twist clockwise until there’s a tight seal.

How do I know if the Hybrid Edge™ Blades Assembly is properly attached to the single-serve cup?

Ensure the Hybrid Edge™ Blades Assembly is fully threaded, meaning there are no gaps between the blade assembly and the lip of the single-serve cup. The blade assembly should be flush against the cup. There is no audible click when it is properly installed. 

Why doesn’t the Mode button work with the single-serve cup? 

Processing Mode programs are not compatible with the single-serve cup. 

How do I install and remove the food processor bowl from the motor base?

Lower the food processor bowl onto the motor base and rotate clockwise until it clicks in place. To remove the food processor bowl from the motor base, turn the bowl counterclockwise and then lift it up.

 

Food Processor Bowl / Discs

*Applicable on TB40x series only

How do I prep ingredients for chopping?

For prepping vegetables, cut both ends of ingredients and remove any outer peels or skins. Cut ingredients such as carrots, cucumber, celery, and zucchini in 2-inch pieces, and broccoli or cauliflower florets in 1-inch pieces. Cut ingredients such as onion in quarters. For prepping meat, trim excess fat and connective tissue. Cut meat in 2-inch cubes.

How do I install and remove the food processor bowl’s lid? 

Place the lid on the food processor bowl and turn clockwise until it clicks, indicating the lid is locked in place. Once the lid is locked in place, press the Power button to turn the unit on. The BlendSense™ program will illuminate. The lid must be locked into place for the unit to operate. The dial will show INSTALL if the food processor bowl and lid are not correctly installed. To remove the lid, press the button on the lid near the handle to unlock, then turn counterclockwise and lift from the bowl.

How do I install and remove the food processor bowl’s chopping blade assembly or dough blade assembly? 

To install the chopping blade assembly, exercise care and grasp the it by the top of the shaft and place it on the drive gear inside the bowl. Note that the blade assembly will fit loosely on the drive gear. Exercise care when handling the blade assembly, as the blades are sharp. Follow the same instructions to install the dough blade assembly. To remove the chopping blade assembly, carefully grasp it by the top of the shaft and lift it out of the bowl. Exercise care when handling the blade assembly, as the blades are sharp. Follow the same instructions to remove the dough blade assembly.

How do I install and remove the food processor bowl’s reversible slicing/shredding disc? 

To install the reversible slicing/shredding disc, place the disc spindle on the drive gear inside the food processor bowl. Then, use the finger holes to grasp the reversible slicing/shredding disc and place it over the spindle, with the side you would like to use facing up. Use the side labeled “Slicer” for slicing. Carefully flip the disc over to the side labeled “Shredder” for shredding. Exercise care when handling the disc, as it is sharp. Using the finger holes, carefully lift the disc out of the bowl. Then, grasp the spindle by the top of the shaft and lift it out of the bowl.

What is the maximum capacity of the food processor bowl? 

The total maximum capacity of the food processor bowl is 64 ounces. 

In what order should I add ingredients to the food processor bowl?

When chopping with the food processor bowl, the order of ingredients does not matter. For pizzas, pretzels, bagels, and bread doughs, first add liquids (such as water), yeast, and oil. Then add dry ingredients before using the BlendSense™ program. For biscuits, scones, and pie doughs, first add dry ingredients and cubed cold butter or shortening before pulsing to combine. Next, add cold liquids (such as cold milk or water) through the lid before using the BlendSense program. For cookies, cakes, brownies, muffins, and quick bread doughs, first add sugars, cubed softened butter, eggs, and liquids (such as vanilla extract) before using the BlendSense program. Next, add all dry ingredients and run the BlendSense program again. 

How do I prep ingredients for slicing or shredding? 

Trim ingredients so they are in 4–5-inch pieces or slightly over the height of the feed chute. DO NOT cut ingredients smaller than the height of the feed chute. Cut both ends off the ingredients to create flat surfaces. Trim tapered ingredients like carrots to make them more symmetrical. Larger ingredients, such as potatoes, may need to be cut in half lengthwise.

What programs can I use with the food processor bowl? 

TB400/TB400C: The BlendSense™ program; Low, Medium, and High speeds; Pulse; and the Processing Mode program CHOP can be used with the food processor bowl and chopping blade assembly. The BlendSense program, Low speed, and Pulse can be used with the food processor bowl and dough blade assembly. 

TB401/TB401C: The BlendSense™ program; Low, Medium, and High speeds; Pulse; and the Processing Mode programs LARGE CHOPSMALL CHOP, and MINCE can be used with the food processor bowl and chopping blade assembly. The BlendSense™ program, Low speed, and Pulse can be used with the food processor bowl and dough blade assembly. The Processing Mode program DISC and Low speed can be used with the food processor bowl and reversible slicing/shredding disc. 

Why are ingredients unevenly sliced? 

For best results when using the reversible slicing/shredding disc, trim ingredients to a uniform size so they fit better through the feed chute. DO NOT cut ingredients shorter than the feed chute height. DO NOT attempt to force ingredients through the feed chute. 

How do I know if the chopping blade assembly or dough blade assembly are installed correctly? 

When installing the chopping blade assembly or dough blade assembly, it will fit loosely on the drive gear. There is no audible click when it is properly installed, but it is secure.