Bose QuietComfort 15 Service Manual

The Bose QuietComfort 15 (QC15) is a premium over-ear active noise-cancelling headphone featuring proprietary TriPort acoustic design, advanced noise-cancellation circuitry, rechargeable AAA battery operation, airplane adapter compatibility, and carrying case. This manual provides detailed service information for disassembly, troubleshooting, parts identification, and reassembly procedures for qualified technicians.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Precautions 3. Tools & Equipment Required 4. Specifications 5. Disassembly Procedure 6. Parts Identification & Replacement 7. Circuit Diagrams & Schematics 8. Troubleshooting Flowcharts 9. Reassembly Instructions 10. Testing & Calibration 11. Regulatory & Compliance

Features at a Glance

Key components: Acoustic Noise Cancelling® electronics, TriPort acoustic structure, AAA battery compartment, airplane adapter jack, audio input cable with inline remote/microphone (on select models), cushioned ear cups, foldable design.

Feature	Description
Active Noise Cancellation	Proprietary Bose circuitry reduces ambient noise
TriPort Acoustic Design	Headphone structure for rich audio performance
Battery Operation	Single AAA battery (rechargeable or alkaline)
Airplane Adapter	Dual-prong adapter for in-flight entertainment systems
Audio Input Cable	Detachable cable with 2.5mm to 3.5mm connectors
Inline Remote	Volume control and microphone (on applicable models)
Carrying Case	Protective case for storage and transport
Ear Cushions	Plush, replaceable cushions for comfort and seal
Foldable Hinges	Allows compact storage in carrying case
Power Switch	Sliding switch to activate noise cancellation

Safety Precautions

Before servicing, review all safety procedures.

Disconnect all power sources: Remove battery before disassembly.
Use appropriate tools: Anti-static wrist strap recommended for electronic components.
Handle flex cables carefully: Use plastic spudgers to avoid tearing ribbon cables.
Note screw locations: Different screw lengths used in assembly; document during disassembly.

WARNING! Risk of electric shock. Do not attempt to service while powered. Internal components are sensitive to static discharge.

Tools & Equipment Required

Standard and specialized tools needed for service.

T6 Torx screwdriver: For housing screws.
Spudger tool (plastic): For prying clips and connectors.
Anti-static mat and wrist strap: For electronic component handling.
Multimeter: For continuity and voltage checks.
Soldering iron (fine tip): For board-level repairs.
Needle-nose pliers: For small connectors.

CAUTION! Using incorrect tools may damage components and void warranty.

Specifications

Model: Bose QuietComfort 15.
Type: Over-ear, closed-back, active noise-cancelling.
Driver Size: Proprietary TriPort acoustic elements.
Frequency Response: Not publicly specified by Bose.
Battery: 1 x AAA (1.5V).
Battery Life: Up to 35 hours (noise cancellation on).
Input Connector: 2.5mm (headphone side), 3.5mm (source side).
Weight: Approximately 190g (without cable).
Carrying Case Dimensions: Compact hard-shell case included.

Disassembly Procedure

Step-by-step guide to access internal components.

Ear Cup Removal: Gently rotate ear cushion counterclockwise to unlock from housing. Carefully peel cushion away from adhesive ring if replacement is needed.

Housing Opening: Remove four T6 Torx screws under ear cushion. Use spudger to separate front and rear housing halves starting from the hinge side. Note internal ribbon cable connections.

Driver Assembly Access: After opening housing, note orientation of driver unit. Disconnect any ribbon cables by lifting locking tabs with spudger.

Battery Compartment: Accessible by sliding open door on right ear cup. For internal inspection, further disassembly of housing required.

Parts Identification & Replacement

Key service parts and their Bose part numbers (if available).

Ear Cushions (Left & Right): Replaceable foam and synthetic leather assembly.
Audio Cable (2.5mm to 3.5mm): Detachable, part number varies by model.
AAA Battery Door: Spring-loaded compartment cover.
Driver Units (Left & Right): Integrated speaker and noise-cancellation microphone assembly.
Main PCB: Contains noise-cancellation circuitry and power management.
Housing Screws: T6 Torx, various lengths.
Headband Slider Assembly: Includes size adjustment mechanism.

Tip: Order replacement parts directly from authorized Bose parts distributors.

Circuit Diagrams & Schematics

Reference diagrams for board-level repair (simplified overview).

Power Circuit: Battery input, power switch, voltage regulation for ANC circuitry.
Audio Input Path: 2.5mm jack to driver amplifier circuit.
Noise-Cancellation Circuit: External microphone input, processing IC, anti-phase output to driver.
Microphone Circuit (inline remote models): Inline microphone bias and audio return path.

WARNING! Schematics are proprietary to Bose. Complex board repairs may require module replacement.

Troubleshooting Flowcharts

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power / ANC not working	Dead battery, faulty switch	Replace battery. Check switch continuity with multimeter.
Audio only works in one ear	Damaged cable, internal wire break	Test with known-good cable. Inspect internal solder joints at 2.5mm jack.
Distorted or low audio	Damaged driver, clogged port	Inspect driver diaphragm. Clean TriPort acoustic openings.
ANC produces hiss or hum	Microphone failure, circuit issue	Check external ANC microphones for damage. May require PCB replacement.
Battery drains quickly	Old battery, circuit short	Use new, high-quality AAA. Check for shorts on PCB power rails.

Reset: No user-reset function. Power cycle by turning switch off/on.

Reassembly Instructions

Reverse of disassembly with critical notes.

Reconnect all ribbon cables: Ensure locking tabs are fully engaged.
Position driver correctly: Align screw holes and ports before closing housing.
Secure housing halves: Snap together starting from hinge side, then install four T6 screws.
Reattach ear cushions: Align tabs and rotate clockwise until snug.
Function test: Insert battery, test power, ANC, and audio before final closure.

CAUTION! Do not overtighten screws. Ensure no cables are pinched during closure.

Testing & Calibration

Post-repair verification procedures.

Audio Test: Play test tones, verify full stereo output, no distortion. ANC Test: Activate in a moderately noisy environment; verify noticeable reduction in low-frequency ambient sound. Mechanical Test: Verify headband adjustment, hinge folding, and cable jack retention are all functioning smoothly.

Note: Bose proprietary calibration software may be required for full ANC performance verification; typically available only to authorized service centers.

Regulatory & Compliance

FCC, CE, and other compliance markings. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Contains FCC ID: A94BOSEQC15 (example). CE marking indicates conformity with health, safety, and environmental protection standards for the EEA. Copyright © Bose Corporation. Bose, QuietComfort, and TriPort are trademarks of Bose Corporation. For service support, visit www.bose.com/support or contact Bose Customer Service.