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fans-android.com › FAQ

June 29, 2020

Author: Maxim

Wireless headphones have become an integral attribute of modern life for many people of various hobbies. It is understandable, it is convenient, easy and accessible to everyone.

Wireless technologies allow us to use devices and gadgets that we are already familiar with without wires in a convenient and easy format. Bluetooth headphones are at the peak of their popularity now, let's take a closer look at them.

You already know what a messenger is. Now we will look at extremely popular devices - wireless headphones and headsets, you will learn how they work and what they are.

Wireless headphones are headphones that receive audio signals using wireless technology rather than through a cable. Equipped with an additional battery and more convenient to use.

1 How do wireless headphones for your phone work 1.1 Bluetooth headphones

2 Wireless headphones - types

3 Pros and cons of wireless headphones

3.1 In conclusion

What are wireless headphones

Conventional wired audio accessories transmit the audio signal through a wire. The abbreviation TWS denotes a segment of devices using wireless technology. The abbreviation stands for True Wireless Stereo, and is translated into Russian as “like truly wireless stereo.” Manufacturers offer device models of different designs. The variety of models also depends on the signal transmission technology used. Bluetooth and radio headphones are widespread on the market; models with an infrared module are less common.

Versions

The first version of Bluetooth was released in 1998. Yes, the transfer was possible, but there was a problem with the anonymity of the data transfer. Despite the same standard, there was poor compatibility between devices from different manufacturers.

Subsequently, versions 1.1 and 1.2 were released - where many errors were corrected, compatibility was improved, and connection was speeded up. We also increased the transmission speed to 1 Mbit per second. I think there is no point in talking about each standard, I will only say that at the moment there is version 5.2, which is the most advanced and allows you to transmit more information with less loss. The result is quite simple - the higher the version, the better. At the moment, the most popular versions are: 4.0 and 5.0.

By the way, all versions are compatible with each other. For example, if you are trying to pair devices that run on version 3.0 and 4.0, then both will work on the smaller version - that is, 3.0.

How wireless headphones work

The audio signal between unwired devices is transmitted through the air using radio waves. The operating principle of wireless headphones is based on receiving a sound signal from a source. Signal reception is realized using one of the technologies:

Bluetooth data transfer technology is universal; it provides data exchange between desktop office equipment, mobile devices, and peripheral devices on an available radio frequency for short-range communication. The frequency is usually 2.5 GHz, the communication range is 10 meters. Using the Bluetooth protocol, the headphones can connect to any device equipped with a Bluetooth module. These audio accessories are convenient to take with you on the road. Data is protected from interception by special encoding.
Radio communication works stably at a distance of several tens of meters. To transmit signals, a base station with a transmitting antenna at a frequency of up to 2.4 GHz is used, which is connected via a wire to a sound source (PC, music center). The radio receiver built into the headphones receives the broadcast waves and converts their sound. The design cannot be called portable; it is practically not used for individual needs.
Thanks to the built-in IR module, the headphones capture high-frequency impulses from the sound source, amplify it and reproduce it. The visibility radius of signals is up to 10 meters, if there are no obstacles in the path of the waves. The device is suitable for watching TV shows. It cannot connect to all sound sources; the connection is unstable and has interference.

On a note. To ensure that the receiver built into the earphone can constantly receive audio signals, the design includes a battery that requires recharging.

Headphones with IR channel: they are still alive

If everything is clear with the connection to the phone, then what about the TV that does not have a Bluetooth module? For example, you want to watch your favorite TV series in the evening, but the child is already sleeping at this time. The solution is simple: you can connect IR headphones.

How do wireless headphones for TV work? Yes, very simply, via the infrared channel. A transmitter is usually connected to the headphone output on a TV, and there is a receiver in the “ears” themselves. Of course, such gadgets are suitable, first of all, for watching TV, because the receiver must be in the “visibility zone” of the transmitter. Go to another room and the sound will disappear.

The advantages of IR models are low price, low power consumption and the ability to use with any device that has a headphone output (not only a TV, but also a desktop computer). The assortment is small, so there is practically nothing to choose from.

Functions of bluetooth headphones

The functional set of Bluetooth headphones depends on the level of equipment of the model. Basic functions include:

automatic connection to the device with which the “ears” were paired during initial setup;
the ability to use headphones for telephone conversations without picking up the mobile phone;
push-button or touch control of sound volume, receiving incoming calls, switching tracks.

To attract attention and interest buyers, manufacturers are expanding the functionality of their models and improving the quality parameters of devices. With the release of AirPods and their numerous replicas, Bluetooth “ears” acquired such useful functions as noise reduction, auto-pause, support for voice commands, protection from sweat and moisture, wireless charging, fast charging function and other options.

The principle of operation of radio headphones

A radio transmitter is connected to the electronic device, which transmits an analog signal to the receiver in the headphones using FM waves.

This method has its advantages:

connection range up to 150 m, which is minimally affected by obstacles;
instant connection between the headset and the transmitting device;
natural sound of musical compositions.
But there are also disadvantages:
the design is not mobile, as it has a radio transmitter;
the occurrence of interference, extraneous signals;
radio communication does not save energy consumption;
Communication operation is not protected by anything.

What comes with the headphones

The Bluetooth headset is equipped with everything necessary for stable operation. Accompanying documentation is a mandatory addition. The wireless gadget comes packaged in a box. Depending on the model, the kit includes:

headphones;
charging device (cable with USB connector, power supply or charging case);
replaceable ear pads for in-ear “ears”;
user guide;
additional attachments (disk with software for connecting to a computer, plastic or fabric case for storage and transportation).

Comparison table of audio transmission technologies

Options	Radio	Bluetooth	TWS	With NFC module
Mobility	–	+	+	+
Connection speed between device and gadget	+	–	– (except for those with W1 chip from Apple)	+
Transmission range over 100m	+	–	–	–
Energy saving	–	+	+	+
Signal security	–	+	+	+
Multipoint technology	–	+	+	+

How to charge

The wireless headset is charged according to certain rules, following which the user will be able to operate the gadget for a long time. Generally accepted recommendations:

For charging, use the cable included with the device;
if the original cable is lost, choose a replacement cord with the appropriate connector and current rating;
follow the charging duration recommended by the model manufacturer;
if the device is equipped with a level indicator, disconnect the device from the charging source when the LED shows the battery is fully charged;
Many current models of Bluetooth accessories support the fast charging function - use the opportunity to recharge the device for 2-3 hours of work in 10 minutes.

What problems can arise with headphones?

The most common problem is the inability to connect. The most popular reason is that users simply forget to activate the pairing mode and try to find the brand/model in their smartphone to no avail.

Please note: pairing mode only works for a short time. If no connections are made to other devices, it may turn off. Always look at the light indicator, it will definitely help you understand what condition the headphones are in now.

Another problem may happen: the headphones will work quietly. We have already talked about why this can happen and how to fix it yourself in our article.

Now you know how wireless headphones for your phone, TV and computer work. But we have a few more interesting topics:

How to fix headphones yourself: step-by-step guide
Are your headphones playing quietly? We fix it using the example of Huawei FreeBuds

Connection methods

The method of connecting wireless earbuds to a phone on Android or iOS is standard and consists of the following steps:

Activating the Bluetooth function on your mobile phone.
Turn on the audio device according to the manufacturer's instructions.
If the device synchronization procedure has already been performed, the headphones will connect automatically.
For the initial connection, you need to find the name of the accessory on your smartphone in the list of nearby Bluetooth devices and perform synchronization.

On a note. If necessary, pairing can be established via an external Bluetooth module. This method is relevant for connecting an audio accessory to a TV that does not support wireless device pairing technology.

Recommendations for choosing technology

When choosing a technology, decide where it will be used.

So radio headphones are better suited for movie watching users and gamers.

In the first case, this is due to the undemanding nature of high sound parameters, in the second - the absence of a delay between video and audio.

Sony has released wireless headsets for the PlaySаtation 4 with radio modules, not bluetooth.

When choosing Bluetooth headphones, pay attention to the following:

Music lovers are better off choosing full-size headphones;
for work - in-ear with Multipoint function;
Head Set with active noise reduction is suitable for traveling on public transport;
for sports - headphones with special clips that hold them firmly on the head, and also have moisture and dust protection.

You can't listen to them together

An inexpensive splitter for $5 allows you to listen to several headphones at once from one audio port. This is convenient during a long trip with friends or your significant other.

This option will not work with Bluetooth headphones. Yes, there are the same wireless solutions for duplicating the signal through a digital splitter, but the price will be much higher. In addition, the sound quality will suffer.

In the case of AirPods, of course, you can give one earphone to a friend, but then you have to say goodbye to stereo.

They become outdated quickly

Bluetooth headphones become outdated too quickly. Standard chargers are changing, new, higher-quality codecs are appearing, and built-in lithium batteries are degrading.

And the new models have significantly more functions than those released a couple of years ago.

With wired models everything is much better. For example, the Sennheiser HD600 has been around for over 20 years. And these are still one of the best-selling headphones.

Don't forget about such legends as the Grado SR80, which appeared on the market in 1994, and the Koss Porta Pro, which blew up the shelves back in 1984.

Finding such an iconic model among Bluetooth headsets will not be easy. Almost impossible. Yes, and there is one more problem, which I will describe in the next paragraph.

Signal limitations

The question of how bluetooth headphones work has been considered. However, that's not all there is to know about wireless communications. There are factors that influence and limit this relationship:

Distance. Obviously, Bluetooth cannot work to connect devices if they are far away from each other. The devices have different ranges, but generally the maximum distance is 8-10 meters.
Obstacles. This could be a concrete wall or radio radiation. For example, the signal will be much weaker if there is a wall between the two devices. Also, for example, the connection will be constantly interrupted if one of the devices is located near a microwave oven. It emits radio waves that affect Bluetooth synchronization.

Device principle

Now let's look at how Bluetooth headphones work with a phone.

Wireless communication is carried out in such a way that signals are transmitted from a source to a receiver. In this case, the source is a smartphone. And the receiver is headphones.

The first time you connect a device, pairing between the two devices will be required. During this process, data is exchanged between the phone and the headset. They exchange unique codes that identify the device. Thus, the headphones are connected specifically to this smartphone.

Re-pairing does not occur, so subsequent synchronization of devices occurs automatically, since the devices already have each other’s data.

Sound delay is annoying

Owners of almost all Bluetooth headphones experience sound delay . It can be negligible and you will pay attention to it when playing music or watching movies. But when working with audio sequencers and games, it is very annoying.

The aptX Low Latency codec solves this problem, but two-way support for this codec is required: both on the sound source and on the headset itself. But even aptX can't handle latency when playing digital musical instruments.

Compare for yourself: regular inexpensive headsets have a latency of 166 milliseconds, while aptX Low Latency has a latency of 34 ms. Wired models have only 7 ms.

Pros and cons of TWS headphones

Now let's look at the main advantages and disadvantages of wireless headphones. Let's start with the strengths:

No wires. The headphones won't get tangled in your pants pocket and won't stop working if the wire breaks.
Freedom of movement. When cleaning an apartment or subway, you don’t have to worry that the headphones will get caught by the wire on some object and fly out of your ears.
Gadget independence. You can charge your phone or tablet in the bedroom and safely move into the living room. At the same time, the music in the headphones will not stop playing.

Sources
https://gadget-bit.ru/kak-rabotajut-besprovodnye-naushniki/ https://www.beatsbydre.com/ru/support/how-to/bluetooth-wireless https://headphone-review.ru/ ?p=9077 https://tehnika.expert/cifrovaya/naushniki/princip-raboty-besprovodnyx-naushnikov.html https://www.moyo.ua/news/kak-polzovatsya-besprovodnymi-naushnikami-instruktsiya-v-6 -punktakh.html https://setafi.com/elektronika/naushniki/kak-rabotayut-besprovodnye-naushniki/ https://ichip.ru/tekhnologii/kak-rabotayut-besprovodnye-naushniki-dlya-telefona-ili-televizora- 513322 https://www.beatsbydre.com/ru/support/how-to/bluetooth-wireless https://wifigid.ru/bluetooth/kak-rabotayut-besprovodnye-naushniki https://androidlime.ru/tws-headphones

Conclusion

Wireless headphones are definitely the future. Sooner or later technology will make our lives easier. Bluetooth headphones will greatly contribute to this.

The sound quality of wireless headsets has improved significantly over the past few years. I like to use a Bluetooth headset while working out or when my hands are full.

But wired models still sound better , they are more affordable, more reliable and more versatile. Several times a week I encounter problems connecting Bluetooth headphones.

It's been 14 years since the first Bluetooth stereo headphones were introduced. But it still seems to me that we are in the beta testing stage of this technology.

Wired headphones just work. [The Next Web]

Design features and method of data transmission

The design of wireless headphones includes a device for receiving and processing the signal, as well as batteries. For this reason, parameters such as overall dimensions, weight, and battery life depend on the technologies used.

An important criterion for choosing wireless headphones is the manufacturer’s brand and compatibility with smartphones from leading companies. Much depends on the firmware version of the phone itself. Even when choosing the original AirPods, you cannot be sure that it will immediately start working with iPhone 5 or 6 without downloading additional programs. Moreover, doubts arise about the compatibility of cheap headphones from Aliexpress with phones from manufacturers such as Huawei or the budget Redmi brand from Xiaomi. At the same time, more famous manufacturers such as Samsung have virtually no problems connecting peripherals to Android.

When choosing wireless headphones, you need to check their compatibility with your mobile phone. This means that the smartphone must not only support the wireless data transmission technologies used, but, if necessary, it can install a new version of software for communication protocols.

Infrared port

This wireless audio transmission technology is obsolete. However, manufacturers continue to produce and even expand the range of such devices. Most models are quite bulky and are classic headphones with a headband, protective ear pads and large speaker cups.

Despite this, sound transmission is carried out at a distance of no more than 10 m in the line of sight. There should be no objects between the signal generator and the receiver, otherwise the sound will be distorted or the signal will be completely blocked.

However, infrared audio transmission technology also has its positive sides. They have low power consumption, which, combined with large overall dimensions and the ability to install a larger capacity battery, provides a long period of battery life - up to several days with intensive use. The second important factor is the affordable cost, especially compared to some branded models.

Sets of such wireless headphones have a separate transmitter, which is connected to the device that generates the sound signal. It is most rational to use it together with a desktop PC and TV.

Radio channel wireless headphones

Radio frequencies in the range of 0.8-2.4 GHz are used to transmit audio data. The distance of reliable signal reception, depending on the model, varies between 100-200 m. Moreover, the propagation range is very little affected by various interferences. The exception is various metal structures and reinforced concrete products with a reinforcement frame inside. They shield the transmission of radio waves, so the range can drop to 10-15 m.

Radio channel wireless headphones are also large in size. In addition, they consume a significant amount of energy. Therefore, despite the use of high-capacity batteries, they require quite frequent recharging. Most RF headphone sets have a transmitter that connects to a remote device and a stand that doubles as a charging base station.

The sound quality depends on how the wireless headphones operate and in what frequency range. The more surrounding devices use the operating range, the worse the sound quality will be. Up to the presence of on-air interference in the form of crackling in headphones, etc. Therefore, when choosing such a device, it is better to give preference to more expensive models with a variable signal transmission range. All settings are made on the transmitter and do not require special skills. The headphones are adjusted to the base automatically.

Infrared and radio channel wireless headphones have a fairly limited range of models and are used mainly at home in conjunction with a TV, PC or music center

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Wireless Wi-fi headphones

If you understand well how wireless headphones for phones, which are positioned as wi-fi devices, work, you will find that they are one of the types of Bluetooth headsets. The signal transmission frequency in both cases is in the range of 2.4 to 2.4835 GHz. Moreover, most of the so-called wireless wi-fi headphones use the IEEE 802.11 local wireless network communication protocol, which corresponds to one of the Bluetooth standards.

There are some differences only in the operation of the devices. Manufacturers provide their products with additional functions. The main thing is the ability to receive information via a wi-fi router. This makes it possible to simultaneously connect several pairs of headphones to one base device. In addition, the signal is transmitted without using progressive compression codecs. This allows you to get clear hi-fi sound. The operational features of the devices limit their scope of application. They are used at home or in conjunction with other sound-reproducing equipment (mobile speakers).

There are models that can also work with smartphones. To do this, a special program is installed on the mobile communication device, which switches the wi-fi module of the smartphone into modem mode.

Disadvantages include the rather high cost, complexity of setup and intensive energy consumption. Most of these models have a full-size form factor, which is not very convenient for daily use in public places.

bluetooth headphones

Considering that the communication protocol was specifically designed for wireless data transmission of devices located in close proximity to each other, the use of this technology for headphones is logical. At the moment, the most common versions of Bluetooth are 5.1 and 5.2, which have been put into operation since 2019. Data transmission is carried out at a frequency of 2.4 GHz.

Despite the assurances of many manufacturers about the signal transmission range of up to 100 m, the actual zone of reliable reception of headphones is limited to a diameter of 10-15 m, from the location of the smartphone. In addition, the sound quality is affected by various interferences. Starting from the operation of a local wireless network and ending with interference from various household electrical equipment such as microwaves.

The advantage is a high degree of security, because wireless headphones work via Bluetooth with an encrypted communication channel. To transmit information, various communication protocols LMP, L2CAP or SDP are used; high-quality sound (music) can be broadcast using the specialized A2DP protocol. Another feature that influences the choice of wireless headphones is the smartphone’s support for the aptX HD codec. If you do not install it, then using the standard software of a mobile device, the audio signal will be maximally optimized for transmission - compressed, which will negatively affect the sound quality.

Additionally, many models have a microphone that can be turned on and off directly from the headset. However, its use significantly reduces operating time. In older smartphones running the Android operating system, you can often find an outdated version of Bluetooth 5.0. If it is technically possible, it is strongly recommended to upgrade to later versions, which significantly increases both the speed and range of data transfer.

Pairing is annoying

There are not many models on the market yet that can be connected to several devices simultaneously. As a rule, synchronization is limited to two gadgets.

But what should I do if I go to visit friends and want to connect headphones to their laptop. Or, for example, I’m testing a new laptop or phone. Perhaps someone will ask to use my headphones.

In the case of wireless headsets and headphones, you will have to go through an annoying pairing procedure . This is much slower than simply inserting a plug into the audio port.

Purpose

Before we find out how Bluetooth headphones work, let's consider what they are needed for and in what cases they are used.

Wireless communication is very convenient for busy people. You can listen to music or other recordings without worrying about wires getting tangled or your phone falling out of your pocket. This can be useful for athletes or other active activities where wires can simply get tangled.

It will also be comfortable to talk on headphones that work via Bluetooth, since you can insert one into your ear and hear both the interlocutor and the sounds of the environment.

Of course, such a headset is also suitable for ordinary people, because wireless devices are superior to conventional ones with wires.

They have worse sound quality

I can't say I'm interested in "amazingly good sound." I just want to get the most out of the sound in this price segment. And for this I need wired headphones.

Almost always, at the same price, Bluetooth headphones will be inferior in sound quality to wired ones.

At the same time, wireless headsets can sound good if they have a high-quality digital converter, but this is rather the exception to the rule.

Which technology is better

If you know how wireless headphones for your phone work, you can easily determine their disadvantages and advantages. If you compare by price, the best option would be the IR model. If you choose the most modern option, Wi-Fi headphones will do. The most reliable model is Bluetooth. The radio option is not convenient due to extraneous noise, but for those who are used to background noise, this is not a problem.

Headphones do not work on a computer with Windows 7

All four technologies have their supporters, so it’s difficult to recommend just one. It all depends on the financial capabilities of the buyer, as well as on where exactly the buyer is going to listen to music - at home, on the street, in the car.

The design of different models is approximately the same; only the color or shape of the earbuds may vary slightly. The most common colors are white and black, but you can also find gray and dark blue models on sale.

Important! Earbuds should not cause any discomfort when placed in the ear canal.

When purchasing, you should pay attention not only to the radio communication technology, but also to the headphones themselves and their packaging. A price that is too affordable should alert you; it is unlikely that a product purchased at a sale will be of high quality. Upon purchase, you must issue a warranty card.