Bose Headphone QC3 Manual

The Bose QuietComfort 3 (QC3) Acoustic Noise Cancelling headphones provide premium audio quality with advanced noise reduction technology, comfortable around-ear design, and convenient controls for music and calls. Features include Active EQ for balanced sound, TriPort acoustic headphone structure, foldable design for portability, and a carrying case. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Package Contents 3. Getting Started 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Connecting to Devices 7. Using Noise Cancellation 8. Battery Information 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Headphones with noise-cancelling circuitry, Audio cable with inline remote and microphone, Airline adapter, Carrying case, AAA battery.

FeatureDescription
Noise CancellationActive noise reduction for travel and quiet environments
Active EQAutomatically adjusts sound for balanced audio at any volume
TriPort StructureAcoustic design for rich, full sound without large earcups
Inline RemoteControls volume, playback, and call management
Foldable DesignEasily folds for storage in included carrying case
Comfort FitPlush ear cushions and lightweight headband for extended wear
Airline AdapterDual-prong adapter for in-flight entertainment systems
Carrying CaseProtective case for travel and storage
Battery PoweredSingle AAA battery for noise cancellation (up to 35 hours)
Audio CableDetachable cable with 3.5mm connectors

Package Contents

Unpack and verify all items are present.

  1. Bose QuietComfort 3 headphones
  2. Audio cable with inline remote and microphone
  3. Airline adapter (dual-prong)
  4. Protective carrying case
  5. AAA alkaline battery
  6. User manual and warranty information

WARNING! Keep small parts away from children to avoid choking hazard.

Getting Started

Prepare headphones for first use.

  1. Insert battery: Open battery compartment on right earcup, insert AAA battery with correct polarity.
  2. Connect audio cable: Plug cable into left earcup jack until it clicks.
  3. Power on: Slide power switch to ON position; green indicator light will illuminate.
  4. Connect to device: Plug other end of cable into audio source (phone, tablet, computer, etc.).

CAUTION! Do not force connectors; ensure proper alignment before inserting.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Headphone controls: Power switch (ON/OFF) on right earcup. Inline remote: Volume up/down, Play/Pause, Answer/End call, Voice assistant activation.

Indicator Light: Green = powered on; Flashing green = low battery; Off = powered off.

Noise Cancellation: Active when power is ON; reduces ambient noise for improved listening. Audio Passthrough: When powered OFF, headphones function as passive headphones with reduced noise cancellation.

Connecting to Devices

Compatible with most devices with 3.5mm audio jack.

  1. Ensure headphones are powered ON for noise cancellation.
  2. Connect audio cable to headphone jack on left earcup.
  3. Connect other end to device's headphone/audio output.
  4. For airline use: Connect airline adapter to seat audio jack, then connect headphone cable.

Tip: For best audio quality, ensure device volume is set to moderate level before adjusting headphone volume.

Using Noise Cancellation

Noise cancellation works best with constant low-frequency sounds (airplane engines, office noise).

  1. Power on: Slide switch to ON; you'll hear slight hiss indicating noise cancellation is active.
  2. Put on headphones: Adjust headband and earcups for comfortable seal around ears.
  3. Play audio: Start playback on connected device; noise cancellation enhances audio clarity.
  4. Adjust volume: Use inline remote or device volume controls.
  5. Power off: Slide switch to OFF when not in use to conserve battery.

WARNING! Do not use noise cancellation in situations where awareness of surroundings is critical (walking near traffic, etc.).

Battery Information

Battery life: Up to 35 hours with AAA alkaline battery. Low battery indicator: Flashing green light.

  1. Replace battery: Open compartment on right earcup, remove old battery, insert new AAA battery with correct polarity.
  2. Battery type: Use alkaline AAA for best performance; rechargeable NiMH AAA also compatible.
  3. Storage: Remove battery if headphones will not be used for extended period.

CAUTION! Do not mix old and new batteries or different battery types.

Care & Maintenance

Clean headphones regularly for optimal performance and hygiene.

  1. Ear cushions: Wipe with dry, soft cloth. If heavily soiled, use cloth slightly dampened with water.
  2. Headband: Clean with dry cloth only.
  3. Cable: Gently wipe with dry cloth; avoid pulling or bending sharply.
  4. Storage: Fold headphones and store in carrying case when not in use.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents, cleaning fluids, or aerosols. Do not immerse in water.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject to conditions: (1) device may not cause harmful interference, (2) device must accept any interference received. CE Mark: Complies with European directives. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose, QuietComfort, TriPort, and Active EQ are trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No soundPower off / connectionsEnsure power is ON; check cable connections at both ends; increase volume.
Noise cancellation not workingBattery / powerReplace battery; ensure power switch is ON; check battery polarity.
Intermittent soundLoose connectionCheck cable connections; try different audio source; inspect cable for damage.
Poor audio qualitySource / settingsCheck audio source quality; ensure device volume is adequate; clean audio jack.
Battery drains quicklyBattery type / ageUse fresh alkaline battery; avoid leaving powered ON when not in use.
Uncomfortable fitAdjustment neededAdjust headband extension; reposition earcups; ensure proper seal around ears.

Reset: Power OFF, remove battery for 30 seconds, reinsert battery, power ON.

Service: Contact Bose Customer Support or visit authorized service center.

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