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Arctis 9 and 9X are renowned gaming headsets for Xbox consoles, offering unparalleled audio quality and immersive gaming experiences. However, some users may encounter an issue where their SteelSeries Arctis 9 and 9X won’t turn on. In most cases, this problem can be resolved without any hardware fixes. Let’s explore some troubleshooting steps to get your SteelSeries headset up and running again.
Checking the Charging Cable
First and foremost, check if the charging cable is damaged. You can test it with another device, such as a laptop or mobile phone, to ensure it’s functioning properly. Additionally, make sure that the USB port you’re using is supplying enough power to charge the headset effectively.
Resetting the Arctis Headset
If the headset still refuses to turn on, try resetting it. To do this, remove the left earcup (the side without the microphone) and locate the small pinhole under the ear cushion. Using a paperclip or pin, press down on the reset button for approximately 1 second. This will initiate a factory reset for your SteelSeries 9X headset.
What to Do If the Steelseries Arctis 9x Reset Button Isn’t Working?
If the reset button fails to work, ensure that you have accurately identified its location. The reset button can be found on the left side of the headphone, right next to the microphone. Carefully insert a pin into the tiny hole and press the button. If the reset button seems to be dislocated, you may need to open the headphones to readjust its position. Alternatively, for wiring or battery-related issues, it’s recommended to seek assistance from an expert or contact SteelSeries customer support.
Installing the SteelSeries Engine Software for Headphone Updates
Outdated headphone drivers can sometimes lead to the Arctis 9 and 9X not turning on. To address this, visit the official SteelSeries website and download the latest version of the SteelSeries Engine Software onto your PC or laptop. Utilize this software tool to update your Arctis 9 or 9X headphones to the newest firmware.
Properly Turning On the Headset
Ensure that you’re turning on the headset correctly by pressing and holding the power button on your SteelSeries headset for approximately 5 seconds. Follow this step whenever you attempt to power on your Arctis headset.
Checking the Headset’s Battery Level
If your Arctis 9X headset is not turning on, it’s possible that the battery level is low. Charge your headphones fully and then attempt to power them on again.
Rebooting Your Device
Sometimes the issue may reside not with the headset, but with the device you’re trying to connect it to. To eliminate this possibility, simply reboot your device.
Updating Audio Drivers (For PC)
Outdated audio drivers can also contribute to the Arctis 9 and 9X not turning on. Make sure you have the latest audio drivers installed on your Windows 11/10 PC. Here’s a step-by-step guide to update your audio drivers manually:
- Open Device Manager.
- Click on “Audio inputs and outputs.”
- Select the driver names that appear under the drop-down menu.
- Choose “Update drivers.”
- Click on “Search automatically for drivers” and install the new version of the drivers.
Alternatively, you can opt for an automatic solution. Download “Driver Easy” on your Windows 11/10 PC, and let it scan and download the latest version of the audio driver for you.
Disabling Other Peripheral Devices
There may be other peripheral devices connected to your PC that could potentially cause interference. To rule out this possibility, unplug any unnecessary devices and try using the SteelSeries headset again.
By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the issue of your SteelSeries Arctis 9 and 9X headset not turning on. Enjoy your immersive gaming experience with the exceptional audio quality of the Arctis series!
