Here is a comprehensive troubleshooting article on the topic “Infrared Wireless Headphones Keep Cutting Out: Line of Sight Solutions”:
Annoyed by Wireless Headphone Dropouts and Disconnects? Here’s How to Fix It
There’s nothing more frustrating than listening to your favorite music on your new infrared wireless headphones, only to have the audio cut out and disconnect repeatedly. If you’re experiencing frequent dropouts, interruptions, and disconnects with your wireless headphones, don’t throw them against the wall in frustration just yet. We’ll help you troubleshoot the most common causes of this problem and get your wireless audio working smoothly again.
Common Symptoms of Wireless Headphones Cutting Out
The wireless headphone dropout problem can manifest in a few different ways:
- Audio cuts in and out repeatedly, especially when you move or turn your head
- Headphones randomly disconnect and reconnect from the audio source
- Static, hissing, or crackling sounds in the audio
- One headphone cuts out but the other stays connected
- Headphones work fine close to the audio source but disconnect when you move further away
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Solutions
Try these solutions in order until your problem is resolved:
1. Check the Line of Sight
Infrared headphones require a direct line of sight to the transmitter to maintain a connection. Any obstacles in between, like walls, furniture, or even your own body can cause the audio to drop out. Make sure:
- Your headphones and audio source are in direct line of sight with each other
- You are within the maximum transmission range (usually 20-30 feet for infrared)
- There are no obstacles blocking the path between the transmitter and headphones
- The infrared transmitter lens and headphone receiver are clean and unobstructed
2. Check the Batteries
Wireless headphones can experience all sorts of problems if the batteries are low or defective. Older NiCad and NiMH batteries can also suffer from the “memory effect” where they hold less charge over time. To rule out battery issues:
- Make sure the batteries in your headphones are fully charged
- Try using fresh or brand new batteries
- If using rechargeable batteries, make sure they are properly “conditioned” by fully discharging and recharging them a few times
- Avoid mixing old and new batteries or different brands
3. Re-pair or Reset the Headphones
Sometimes the wireless connection between your headphones and audio source can get confused or out of sync. Re-pairing or resetting the connection can often fix this:
- Delete your headphones from the list of paired devices on your audio source
- Turn off the headphones and audio source completely
- Turn them both back on and put your headphones in pairing mode
- Re-pair your headphones to the audio source and test the connection
- Consult your headphone manual for specific instructions on pairing and resetting them
4. Change the Wireless Channel
If you live in an area with a lot of wireless devices, your headphones may be experiencing interference from other signals on the same frequency. Some wireless headphones allow you to change the broadcast channel to avoid conflicts:
- Look for a “Channel” or “Frequency” button or switch on your audio transmitter
- Try different channels until you find one with minimal interference
- Your headphones should automatically adjust to the new channel
- Consult your headphone manual for specific instructions on changing the wireless channel
5. Update or Reset the Firmware
Newer wireless headphones with Bluetooth technology may have upgradable firmware that can fix bugs and connectivity issues. To update the firmware:
- Connect your headphones to a computer with the manufacturer’s firmware update software installed
- Download and install any available firmware updates
- If there are no updates available, try resetting the firmware to factory settings
- Consult your headphone manual for specific firmware update and reset instructions
Preventive Measures
To minimize the risk of your wireless headphones cutting out in the future:
- Always store your headphones in their protective case when not in use
- Keep the infrared transmitter lens and headphone receiver clean and free of obstructions
- Maintain a direct line of sight between your headphones and audio source when possible
- Use fresh, high-quality batteries and properly maintain rechargeable batteries
- Avoid using your wireless headphones near other electronic devices that may cause interference
Wireless Headphone Troubleshooting Checklist
- Are the batteries charged or fresh?
- Is there a clear line of sight between the headphones and audio transmitter?
- Are the infrared lenses clean and unobstructed?
- Is the audio source compatible with and properly paired to the headphones?
- Are the headphones within the maximum transmission range of the audio source?
- Are there any other wireless devices nearby that could be causing interference?
- Have you tried changing the wireless channel on the audio transmitter?
- Is there a firmware update available for your headphones?
- Have you tried resetting the headphones and re-pairing them?
By following these troubleshooting steps and preventive measures, you should be able to resolve most issues with your infrared wireless headphones cutting out. If your specific problem persists, consult the manufacturer’s support resources or consider upgrading to a newer pair of headphones with more advanced wireless technology.