Bose QuietComfort 3 Instruction Manual

The Bose QuietComfort 3 Acoustic Noise Cancelling headphones provide premium audio quality with advanced noise reduction technology, comfortable around-ear design, detachable audio cable, rechargeable battery, carrying case, and intuitive controls for volume, track selection, and call management. 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 & Charging 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Acoustic Noise Cancelling circuitry, around-ear cushions, detachable audio cable, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, carrying case, inline remote with microphone.

FeatureDescription
Noise CancellationActive electronic noise reduction for quiet listening
Audio Input3.5mm stereo jack for wired connection
Battery IndicatorLED shows charging status and battery level
Inline RemoteVolume control, track selection, call answer/end
Carrying CaseProtective storage with cable compartment
Comfort FitPadded headband and around-ear cushions
Power SwitchTurns noise cancellation on/off
Charge PortMicro-USB for battery charging
Audio CableDetachable 48-inch cable with inline controls
MicrophoneBuilt-in for phone calls

Package Contents

Unpack and verify all items are present.

  1. Bose QuietComfort 3 headphones
  2. Detachable audio cable with inline remote
  3. Carrying case
  4. Airline adapter (dual-prong)
  5. Micro-USB charging cable
  6. Quick Start Guide
  7. Warranty card

WARNING! Keep plastic bags away from children to avoid suffocation hazard.

Getting Started

Prepare headphones for first use.

  1. Charge battery: Connect Micro-USB cable to charge port and power source.
  2. Attach audio cable: Plug into headphone jack until it clicks.
  3. Power on: Slide power switch to ON position (green LED).
  4. Connect to device: Plug cable into audio source (phone, tablet, computer).
  5. Adjust fit: Extend headband and position cushions around ears.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures or moisture during initial setup.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Primary controls located on ear cup and inline remote.

Headphone Controls: Power switch (ON/OFF), Charge port (Micro-USB), Battery indicator LED.

Inline Remote: Volume up/down buttons, Multi-function button (play/pause, track skip, call answer/end), Microphone.

LED Indicators: Solid green = fully charged; Flashing amber = charging; Solid amber = low battery; Off = no power or charging complete.

Connecting to Devices

Compatible with most audio devices having 3.5mm jack.

  1. Ensure headphones are powered on (green LED).
  2. Plug audio cable firmly into headphone jack.
  3. Connect other end to device's headphone/audio output.
  4. Adjust volume on both device and inline remote.

Tip: For best audio quality, set source device volume to 50-75% and fine-tune with headphone controls.

Using Noise Cancellation

Active noise reduction for quieter listening environment.

  1. Power on: Slide switch to ON position.
  2. Verify activation: Notice reduction in ambient noise.
  3. Adjust audio: Play content at comfortable volume.
  4. Conserve battery: Turn off when not needed.
  5. Airline use: Connect airline adapter for in-flight entertainment systems.

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

Battery & Charging

Rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides extended use.

  1. Charging: Connect Micro-USB cable to charge port and USB power source.
  2. Indicator: LED flashes amber during charging; solid green when fully charged.
  3. Battery life: Up to 35 hours with noise cancellation on.
  4. Low battery: LED shows solid amber; recharge promptly.
  5. Storage: Charge to 50% if not using for extended periods.

CAUTION! Use only provided or certified charging cable. Do not expose to extreme heat during charging.

Care & Maintenance

Proper care ensures longevity and performance.

  1. Cleaning: Wipe with dry, soft cloth. Do not use liquids or cleaners.
  2. Cushions: Gently clean with slightly damp cloth if necessary.
  3. Storage: Keep in carrying case when not in use.
  4. Cable care: Avoid sharp bends and excessive pulling.
  5. Temperature: Store in dry environment at room temperature.

WARNING! Do not attempt to disassemble or modify headphones.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: Part 15 Class B device. ICES-003 Compliance: Class B digital apparatus. Manufacturer: Bose Corporation. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Patents: www.bose.com/patents. For support, visit www.bose.com/support or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No soundPower off/cableTurn power on; check cable connections; ensure audio source is playing.
Noise cancellation not workingBattery/switchCharge battery; ensure power switch is ON; check LED indicator.
Poor audio qualityConnection/sourceSecure cable connections; test with different audio source; clean connectors.
Battery not chargingCable/power sourceUse provided Micro-USB cable; try different USB power source; check for debris in port.
Intermittent soundLoose cableReconnect cable at both ends; inspect cable for damage.
LED not lightingBattery depletedCharge for at least 30 minutes; if no response, contact support.

Reset: Turn off, disconnect cable, wait 30 seconds, reconnect and power on.

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

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