Plugging into my headphones to listen to music or watch videos on my computer is something I do fairly often along with taking on Skype and video calls for meetings and quick catch-ups with family. Needless to say, my earphones get a lot of use on a near day to day basis. For me to run into pesky headphone related issues is not unheard of.

Assuming that the accessory is no longer functioning correctly often leads to replacing it with new ones since my computer seems unable to detect its presence. What other explanation, after all, is there for its malfunction, right?

Interestingly enough, I am not the only computer user who thought that faulty headphones must be due to regular wear and tear.

Reports have shown that complaints regarding this issue is fairly common with users running Windows 8 or Windows 10. Thankfully, I have found several quick fixes on how to fix headphone jack on the computer.

Solution #1 Run the troubleshooter

Windows systems come with a built-in troubleshooter that especially tackles any issues encountered when the computer fails to detect or recognize headphones. These are the essential steps for Playing Audio troubleshooting:

1. On your keyboard, press on the Windows logo key. Next, type in “troubleshoot” then select Troubleshoot when it appears on your monitor.
2. Select Playing Audio, followed by the option to Run the troubleshooter. Select Next.
3. Choose headphones then right after click Next.
4. Make sure to click No Do not open Audio Enhancements before selecting Playtest sounds.
5. Follow the prompt. If no sound was heard, sleuth I didn’t hear anything option. This will cause Windows to reinstall the driver for audio. Simply follow the additional on-screen instructions to finish the diagnostics.

Solution #2 Repair hardware issues

• Try using a different jack to hook your headphones onto. It is possible that the USB port being used is already dead. By plugging into another port, you can determine whether it is the headphones or the jack itself that is at fault.
• Using headphones with a different device is one quick way to test its functionality. Connect to a mobile phone or to another computer to fully test out if it is in working order.

These simple steps can help users figure out and spot repair hardware problems.

Solution #3 Change default sound settings

I would never have stopped to consider that the sound format default I had, was incorrect and that it could lead to issues with my headphones. To correct this problem, I simply changed the settings. Here is how you go about it on your desktop:

1. Hover on the Start button and right-click on it. Select Control Panel.
2. Locate Hardware and Sound, select Sound.
3. On the Playback button, click twice on the playback device you want to use as a default. A green mark should appear next to it.
4. Next, go to the tab marked Advanced. From the drop-down menu change the default sound scheme.

Solution #4 Set Headphones as the default device for playback

In some cases, the headphones aren’t set up as the default option for playbacks. This will then lead to the accessory not working correctly with a computer that is running on Windows 8 or 10. To set it up, here’s a 5 step method.

1. With your cursor on the Start button, right-click. The popup should include an option for Control Panel. Select this.
2. Then choose Hardware and Sound. Select Sound.
3. Locate the tab for Playback. Under this, right-click the window then choose Show Disabled Devices.
4. You should be able to see the list of headphones. Right-click on the one that corresponds to your make and model. Elect Enable.
5. Last but not least, choose Set as Default and select Apply to finish the process.

Bluetooth function is in ever device nowadays. Open your mobile phone and you can instantly sync it with the help of Bluetooth. Smart devices and assistants also run on Bluetooth and of course so do fancy earphones and earbuds we use to get our tunes flowing through. I don’t think I have ever put much stock into knowing what more about the built in Bluetooth until I’ve had to pair an accessory.

Like many people, I assumed that having the function was a one-size-fits-all type of deal. Clearly, it was not.

After struggling to pair my device with the Bluetooth accessory in question, it turns out that the two weren’t a match. To avoid this from happening again, I did some research and learned how to check bluetooth version on my android phone. It is really easy, here is how I did it.

Step 1

On your android device, locate the Bluetooth settings. Make sure you have it switched on. Switching it on enables it to allow syncing and pairing with devices that are Bluetooth compatible.

Step 2

Next, tap on your android phone’s settings.

Step 3

Click on the applications tab and then select the “ALL” option.

Step 4

Scroll down and look for the Bluetooth icon. Tap on this too. This should be labeled as Bluetooth Share.

Step 5

A screen should pop up and you should be able to find the version of your Bluetooth under the app info. Simply take note of the version and cross-check with the device or component you are looking to pair with.

In general, Bluetooth is backward compatible. Meaning, it is possible to use an older version of a Bluetooth accessory with a newer phone model. While it will still function, any improvements in the newer version won’t likely be visible when paired with the old models. That said, if you are looking to experience all the perks of the latest Bluetooth generation, then make sure your devices all match up.

Unlike firmware or software, users cannot upgrade their Bluetooth to a newer version without fully replacing the device in question. The reason behind this is because the SOC is part of the wireless radio. If the hardware can only support a specific Bluetooth version, there is nothing anyone can do to change it internally.

Bluetooth Safety

The wireless connectivity that Bluetooth function affords users has made it incredibly efficient to share information and files with peers. The best part is that it works over distances albeit slower than improved tech such as a WiFi connection.

Sometimes even with strangers. Which leads me to the importance of using your Bluetooth option in a safe manner. It may not seem like a threat but Bluetooth hacks and attacks are very real.

Enable Only When Needed

It is so easy to switch on the Bluetooth and leave it be. The biggest mistake you can make is not only leaving it on all the time but also allowing anyone to pair with your device. Switching off your Bluetooth when not in use keeps hackers from discovering your device which in turn makes it difficult for them to harvest your information.

Be Mindful of the Info you Input or Share

This is just like when we were little and our folks told us not to talk to strangers and not to accept candy from strangers. This warning still applies so don’t just click on any link or file sent to you by an unknown number.

Update Firmware on the Device Regularly

As I have previously discussed, upgrading Bluetooth is not an option. However, updating the firmware of your gadget is. Updates provide users with improvements and fixes for any issues discovered by programmers. Updating regularly will keep your device protected.