Bose A30 - Aviation Headset Manual

WHAT'S IN THE BOX

CONTENTS

NOTES:

• For control module options.
• For aircraft connector types.
• If any part of the product is damaged, don't use it. Contact your authorized Bose dealer or Bose customer service.
  Visit: support. Bose.com/A30

HEADSET COMPONENTS

CONTROL MODULE OPTIONS

IMPORTANCE OF PROPER FIT

FIT THE HEADBAND
Proper fit is important both for comfort and optimal noise cancellation performance.

1. Locate the left and right icons inside the earcups to orient the headset properly.
2. Place the headset on your head.
3. Adjust the headband so the ear cushions completely cover your ears.
   NOTE: For best performance, make sure the ear cushions fit securely around your ears so they create a seal.
   

ADJUST THE MICROPHONE

1. Grasp the microphone base and adjust the boom so the microphone is level with your mouth.
   
   Microphone placement is important for clear communication. The microphone boom can rotate 160°. Do NOT force it beyond the intended rotation or damage could occur.
   
2. Make sure the microphone is 0.5" (12.7 mm) from your lips.
   NOTE: The microphone should not be touching your lips.
   
3. Make sure the white dot on the microphone base faces your mouth.
   NOTE: If needed, twist the microphone base.
   
4. Test the headset before flight.

CONDITIONS RELATED TO FIT
In very loud conditions, such as during takeoff, you may experience a brief reduction in noise cancellation as the headset compensates for a momentary pressure change. If this continues when the sound level returns to normal, see "Acoustic Noise Cancelling". If it persists, see "Troubleshooting".
A low rumbling sound or frequent, brief losses of noise cancellation may indicate an improper fit or blocked earcup openings. See "Clean the headset" for instructions on removing blockages.
During a long flight, you may feel a slight pressure point, which can be relieved by adjusting the headband position.

SECURE THE CABLE AND CONTROL MODULE
The cable clips and control module holder secure the cable and control module to your clothing, a safety harness, sun visor rail, or aircraft headset hook for quick and easy access.

Cable clips
Squeeze the narrow end of the clip to open. Press the side button to release and reposition the clip along the cable.

Control module holder
Stretch the holder over the back of the control module to secure it in place.

HEADSET CONTROLS

POWER ON
Press the Power button .

The Power light glows amber then blinks according to the battery level. See "Power light".
NOTE: The first time you power on your headset, noise cancellation is fully enabled. See "Acoustic Noise Cancelling".

POWER OFF
Press and hold until the Power light glows amber, then release.
NOTE: When powered off, the headset provides passive audio communications.

ACOUSTIC NOISE CANCELLING

Acoustic Noise Cancelling reduces unwanted noise, providing a clearer, more lifelike audio performance. You can choose your noise cancellation level based on your listening preferences and environment.
NOTE: When you receive a call, the headset remains at the current noise cancellation level.

ACOUSTIC NOISE CANCELLING (ANC) SWITCH
Sets the noise cancellation level.

FUNCTION	POSITION	DESCRIPTION
HIGH		Maximum quiet and noise cancellation across the entire spectrum. Best signal-to-noise ratio for radio and intercom communications in loud aircraft.
MED		Consistent noise reduction across a wide range of frequencies. Best for clear and comfortable noise cancellation in typical jet aircraft.
LOW		Best for improved interpersonal communication outside of the intercom in quieter environments.

TAP CONTROL FOR TALK-THROUGH COMMUNICATION
When you need to focus on interpersonal communication coming from a specific direction, you can automatically set noise cancellation to LOW in one earcup.

NOTES:

• By default, the TAP CONTROL operation switch is set to OFF.
• Tap Control is available only when the Acoustic Noise Cancelling (ANC) switch is in the HIGH or MED position.
• Tap Control is disabled during extreme levels of ambient noise to ensure proper noise reduction performance and intercom communication quality. However, you can still set the noise cancellation level to LOW in both earcups using the Acoustic Noise Cancelling (ANC) switch.

1. Make sure the Acoustic Noise Cancelling (ANC) switch is in the HIGH or MED position.
   
2. Inside the control module battery compartment, set the TAP CONTROL switch to ON. See "Change the operation switches".
   
3. Firmly double-tap the outside of the earcup.
   

Switch earcups
To switch Tap Control to the other earcup, firmly double tap the other earcup.

Reset Tap Control
To resume noise cancellation in both earcups, double-tap the earcup where Tap Control is currently active, or move the Acoustic Noise Cancelling (ANC) switch to another position.

OPERATION SWITCHES

OPERATION SWITCH FUNCTIONS
The operation switches are located in the control module battery compartment.
NOTE: Some operation switches are not available on all models.

FUNCTION	POSITION	DEFAULT	DESCRIPTION
REVERSIONARY		OFF	Disables all non-critical functions, including Bluetooth audio, AUX audio, and Tap Control. Only intercom communications and Acoustic Noise Cancelling are enabled. In case of emergency hardware or software failure, set the switch to ON.
TAP CONTROL		OFF	Enables/Disables Tap Control feature.
PRIORITY		BT	Establishes priority between two secondary audio sources connected at the same time. Select BT to give the Bluetooth (wireless) connection higher priority. Select AUX to give the wired connection higher priority.
INTERCOM		MONO	Processes intercom audio as mono or stereo. Available for configurations that support two-channel or stereo intercom systems only. NOTE: 5-pin XLR and U174 models are mono-only configurations.
AUTO OFF		ON	Power off automatically after 3 to 45 minutes of inactivity. NOTES: When running on battery power and unplugged from the intercom, the headset powers off unless there is audio from an active mobile device present. If you are on a call and unplugged from the intercom, the headset powers off approximately 3 minutes after the call is ended.
AUTO ON		ON	Power on automatically when connected to aircraft power. NOTES: Available in Flex Power models only. Bluetooth models return to the previous Bluetooth state when powered on.

CHANGE THE OPERATION SWITCHES

1. Power off the headset.
2. On the back of the control module, press down firmly on the finger indent and slide the cover down.
   
   The battery cover is tethered to the control module. Do NOT attempt to detach it.
   
3. Remove the batteries.
4. Using a pen or a small, flat-tipped screwdriver, gently move the switch(es).
5. Insert two AA batteries (alkaline preferred), observing proper polarity.
   
   If the batteries don't fit correctly, do NOT force them in. Forcing an improper connection will cause permanent damage to the control module.
   
6. Close the battery cover, press firmly down on the finger indent, and slide the cover into place.
   

MICROPHONE PLACEMENT

By default, the microphone assembly ships from the factory attached to the left earcup (although in some configurations it may ship unattached). It can be easily moved from one earcup to the other.

MOVE THE MICROPHONE
Remove the microphone assembly and terminator cover

1. At the base of the microphone assembly, open the two latches.
   
2. Gently pull the microphone assembly from the socket.
3. On the terminator cover, open the latch.
   
4. Gently pull the terminator cover from the socket.

Replace the microphone assembly and terminator cover

1. Align the base of the microphone assembly with the socket on the earcup and slide in until secure.
2. At the base of the microphone assembly, close the two latches.
3. Align the terminator cover with the socket on the other earcup and slide in until secure.
   
   Do NOT force the terminator cover into the socket.
   NOTE: If the terminator cover is not securely installed, there will be no audio in the earcup.
4. On the terminator cover, close the latch.
5. Test the headset before flight.

BATTERIES

REPLACE THE BATTERIES
When the battery light blinks red, the batteries must be replaced.
NOTE: For aircraft-powered headsets, batteries are not required for operation if aircraft power is available. However, you can still install batteries when connected to aircraft power as a backup in case of power interruptions or disconnections. See "Aircraft Connectors".

1. Power off the headset.
2. On the back of the control module, press down firmly on the finger indent and slide the cover down.
   
   The battery cover is tethered to the control module. Do NOT attempt to detach it.
   
3. Remove the batteries.
4. Insert two AA batteries (alkaline preferred), observing proper polarity.
   
   If the batteries don't fit correctly, do NOT force them in. Forcing an improper connection will cause permanent damage to the control module.
   
5. Close the battery cover, press firmly down on the finger indent, and slide the cover into place.
   

NOTES:

• New AA alkaline batteries supply up to 45 hours of power for the headset. Battery life varies with the ambient noise level of the aircraft, temperature, ear cushion condition, Bluetooth feature use, and age of the batteries.
• Other battery chemistries may yield different results. Battery life may differ and battery life indication may not be accurate.

AIRCRAFT CONNECTORS

Your headset comes with one of several standard aircraft connector options.

NOTE: Contact Bose customer service for more information about these connectors.

DUAL PLUG (GENERAL AVIATION)
Dual plug models have two general aviation aircraft connectors that insert into specific jacks on the aircraft control panel.
NOTE: The microphone connector is shorter, thinner, and has a slightly different shape than the intercom connector.

Connect to the aircraft

1. Insert the intercom connector into the intercom jack on the aircraft control panel.
2. Insert the microphone connector into the microphone jack on the aircraft control panel.
   

Disconnect from the aircraft
Gently pull back on each connector to remove the connector from the aircraft control panel.

U174, 5-PIN XLR, AND 6-PIN LEMO
5-pin XLR and 6-pin Lemo aircraft connectors provide the headset with both aircraft power and intercom audio. U174 connectors provide the headset with only intercom audio.

Connect to the aircraft

1. Align the connector with the socket on the aircraft control panel, matching the narrow bar on the connector with the slot in the socket.
2. Firmly insert the connector into the aircraft control panel.
   

Disconnect from the aircraft (U174 and 5-pin XLR)

1. Press the button/latch on the aircraft control panel to release the connector, if necessary.
2. Gently pull back to remove the connector from the aircraft control panel.
   

Disconnect from the aircraft (6-pin Lemo)

1. Pull back on the sleeve near the end of the connector.
   
   You must pull back on the sleeve before you pull out the connector. Forcing the connector out will damage the cable and/or the aircraft control panel.
   
2. Continue gently pulling back to remove the connector from the aircraft control panel.
   

STATUS LIGHTS

The Power and Bluetooth lights are located on the front of the control module.

POWER LIGHT
Shows the power source and level.

NOTES:

• New AA alkaline batteries supply up to 45 hours of power for the headset. Battery life varies with the ambient noise level of the aircraft, temperature, ear cushion condition, Bluetooth feature use, and age of the batteries.
• Other battery chemistries may yield different results. Battery life may differ and battery life indication may not be accurate.

BLUETOOTH LIGHT
NOTE: This section applies to Bluetooth models only.
Shows the connection status of a mobile device.

DIM THE STATUS LIGHTS
To dim the Bluetooth and Power lights, double-press the Power button .
To restore brightness, press again, or turn the headset off and then on.

TURN OFF THE STATUS LIGHTS
To turn off the Bluetooth and Power lights, triple-press .
To turn the lights back on, press again, or turn the headset off and then on.
NOTE: The status lights will return to default brightness each time the headset is powered on.

SECONDARY AUDIO SOURCES

You can connect your headset to a secondary audio source in two ways:

• AUX (wired) connection
• Bluetooth (wireless) connection (applies to Bluetooth models only)

AUX CONNECTIONS
Use the 3.5 mm AUX audio cable to connect a non-wireless device.

1. Make sure the Secondary Audio Mode switch is in the MUTE or MIX position (see page 45) and the REVERSIONARY operation switch is set to OFF.
   NOTE: If the Secondary Audio Mode switch is set to OFF or the REVERSIONARY operation switch is set to ON, AUX audio functionality is disabled.
2. Connect the cable to the 3.5 mm AUX port on the back of the control module.
   
3. Connect the other end of the cable to the 3.5 mm port on your audio source.
   NOTE: The functions of a connected AUX audio source are not controlled by the control module.

Connect using the Bluetooth menu on your mobile device

1. Make sure the Secondary Audio Mode switch is in the MUTE or MIX position (see page 45) and the REVERSIONARY operation switch is set to OFF.
   NOTE: If the Secondary Audio Mode switch is set to OFF or the REVERSIONARY operation switch is set to ON, Bluetooth functionality is disabled.
2. Press and hold the Bluetooth/Multi-function button for 1 second.
   The Bluetooth light blinks purple.
3. On your mobile device, enable the Bluetooth feature.
   NOTE: The Bluetooth feature is usually found in the Settings menu.
4. Select the headset from the device list.
   Once connected, you hear a tone, and the Bluetooth light blinks blue.
   

NOTES:

• After 5 minutes of inactivity, the headset automatically exits pairing mode, and the Bluetooth light turns off. To turn the Bluetooth feature back on, press .
• Each time you turn on the Bluetooth feature, the headset attempts to reconnect with the two most recently connected Bluetooth devices. If the device(s) are turned off or out of range, the headset attempts to reconnect to any other devices in the pairing list, then returns to pairing mode. See "Reconnect a mobile device".

Disconnect a mobile device

1. Press and hold the Bluetooth/Multi-function button for 5 seconds to turn the Bluetooth feature off.
2. Move the Secondary Audio Mode switch to the OFF position.
   NOTE: You can also use Bluetooth settings to disconnect your device. Disabling the Bluetooth feature disconnects all other devices.

Reconnect a mobile device
When powered on, the headset tries to reconnect with the two most recently-connected devices.
NOTE: The devices must be within range (30 ft or 9 m) and powered on.

Recover a lost connection
When your connected mobile device moves out of range, the connection is lost. The headset automatically attempts to reconnect for 5 minutes. If the headset is unable to reconnect, it returns to pairing mode. After 5 minutes of inactivity, the Bluetooth feature turns off.

1. Move the device back into range.
2. Press l to reconnect.

Connect an additional mobile device
You can store up to eight paired devices in the headset pairing list, and your headset can be actively connected to two devices at a time.
To connect an additional device, use the Bluetooth menu on your device.

NOTES:

• Only one secondary audio source can be heard at a time.
• Secondary audio will never override the intercom.

Switch between connected devices

1. Pause audio on your first device.
2. Play audio on your second device.

Clear the headset pairing list

1. Press and hold the Bluetooth/Multi-function button and (the Bluetooth volume down button, located on the side of the control module) simultaneously for 7 seconds, or until the Bluetooth light blinks purple in sync with the Power light.
2. Delete the headset from the Bluetooth list on your device.
   All devices are cleared, and the headset is ready to connect.
   See "Bluetooth connections".

BLUETOOTH FUNCTIONS
NOTE: This section applies to Bluetooth models only.

Bluetooth volume functions
The Bluetooth volume controls are located on the side of the control module.

FUNCTION	WHAT TO DO
Bluetooth volume up	Press .
Bluetooth volume down	Press .

Call functions
The Bluetooth/Multi-function button is located on the front of the control module.

FUNCTION	WHAT TO DO
Make a call	Dial from your connected phone. The call automatically transfers to the headset.
Answer a call	Press . You hear a short beep before you hear the incoming call.
End a call	Press . You hear two short beeps indicating the call has ended.
Decline an incoming call	Press and holdfor 1 second. You hear two short beeps indicating the call has been declined.
Answer a second incoming call and put the current call on hold	While on a call, press. You hear a short beep before you hear the second call.
Decline a second incoming call and stay on current call	While on a call, press and hold l for 1 second. You hear two short beeps indicating the call has been declined.
Switch between two calls	With two active calls, double-press . You hear a short beep before you hear the incoming call.
Redial the last number	When there are no active or incoming calls, double-press .
Transfer audio to the mobile device	While on a call, press and hold the Bluetooth/Multi-function button for 3 to 4 seconds. The audio is transfered to the mobile phone while the Bluetooth connection remains active.
Activate voice control	When there are no active or incoming calls, press .
Mute/unmute a call	While on a call, press and simultaneously. You hear two short beeps indicating the call has been muted/unmuted.

NOTES:

• If you are on a call and unplugged from the intercom, the headset powers off approximately 3 minutes after the call is ended.
• To use the headset when unplugged from the intercom (to listen to audio or to make or receive calls), Bose recommends to disable the Auto off feature for uninterrupted functionality. See "Operation Switches".
• Some functions may not be available for some mobile devices. Refer to your device owner's guide for more information.

SECONDARY AUDIO PRIORITY

SECONDARY AUDIO MODE SWITCH
Controls how secondary audio sources are heard in relation to the intercom.

FUNCTION	POSITION	DESCRIPTION
MUTE		When an intercom signal is detected, secondary audio is temporarily muted until intercom audio ceases.
MIX		When an intercom signal is detected, secondary audio is mixed with intercom audio. You hear a maximum of two audio sources: the intercom plus one secondary device.
OFF		Only intercom audio is active. All secondary audio sources, (AUX and Bluetooth) are muted. NOTES: All Bluetooth connections are disabled and antennae power is removed. If you switch to OFF while connected to a Bluetooth device, you may need to re-establish your Bluetooth connection the next time you turn on the headset or the next time you move the switch from the OFF position.

NOTES:

• Only one secondary audio source can be heard at a time.
• Audio from a secondary source will never override intercom communications.
• When MUTE or MIX are selected, incoming and outgoing phone calls automatically mute all other secondary audio sources.
• During a phone call, intercom and phone call audio are mixed.

PRIORITY OPERATION SWITCH
Establishes priority between two secondary audio sources connected at the same time.

1. Locate the PRIORITY operation switch inside the battery compartment.
2. Set the switch to the correct source (BT or AUX). See "Change the operation switches".
   • When the switch is in the BT position, the Bluetooth source will override the AUX source if a signal is detected.
   • When the switch is in the AUX position, the AUX source will override the Bluetooth source if a signal is detected.

NOTE: Incoming and outgoing phone calls will always override any other secondary source.

SECONDARY AUDIO PRIORITY CHART
Audio sources are heard according to priority:

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

STORE THE HEADSET

• Place the headset in the carry case for easy, convenient storage.
• Store the headset in a ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Remove the batteries before storing the headset for extended periods.
  

COMPONENT	CLEANING PROCEDURE
Headset	Wipe the outside surfaces of the headband, headband cushion, earcup cushions, connectors, and plastic parts using a soft, damp cloth (water only) and mild soap. Do NOT immerse the headset in water or any liquid.
Earcup openings	Check to make sure that the openings on the outside of each earcup are clean and free of debris before each flight. When wiping down the earcups, be sure not to force any dirt or debris into the openings. Carefully use tweezers, if necessary, to remove foreign matter that may be lodged in the openings. Do NOT blow air into or vacuum the openings, as this may damage the headset.
Earcup inner screen	Do not attempt to remove, replace, repair, or clean the inner screen inside the earcup. If the screen appears to be damaged or worn out, contact Bose customer service. If the inner screen becomes damp from environmental moisture such as light rain, dew, perspiration, or condensation, allow it to air dry only. Do NOT use electric heaters, blowers, or hair dryers to dry the inner screen.
Microphone windscreen	Gently slide or roll the windscreen off the microphone. Rinse and dry the windscreen. Once the windscreen is completely dry, slide the windscreen back on the microphone. Make sure it fits completely over the microphone.

LIMITED WARRANTY
The headset is covered by a limited warranty. Details of the limited warranty are provided on the product registration card that is in the carton. Please refer to the card for instructions on how to register. Failure to do so will not affect your limited warranty rights.

1. Contact the Bose organization in your country/region (visit global. Bose.com contact information in your country/region) for specific return and shipping instructions.
2. Label and ship the product, freight prepaid, to the address provided by the Bose organization in your country.
3. Place any necessary return authorization number prominently on the outside of the carton. Cartons not bearing a return authorization number, where required, will be refused.

SERIAL NUMBER LOCATION
The serial number is located under the headband cushion. To view the serial number, gently grab and peel the cushion from away from the headband.

Refer to this serial number when you register your product or contact Bose for technical support.

REPLACEMENT PARTS AND ACCESSORIES
Through normal use, parts like windscreens and ear cushions may require periodic replacement. Replacement parts and accessories can be ordered through Bose customer service. Visit: support. Bose.com/A30

Available accessories

• Ear cushions (pair)
• Headband cushions (pair)
• Electret microphone windscreen
• Dynamic microphone windscreen
• Service kit (ear cushions, electret microphone windscreen, headband cushions)
• Carry case
• Terminator cover
• Control module with cable and microphone assembly
• 6-pin to Dual plug cable adapter
• 6-pin to U174 cable adapter
• 3.5 mm AUX audio cable
• Installation kit
• Cable clip

Ear cushions
Ear cushions should be replaced every six months or every 350 hours of use. You may need to replace them more often if you:

• Have a full beard or heavy whiskers.
• Subject the headset to severe temperature extremes such as parking your airplane outside in severe cold or heat.
• Put excess strain on the cushions because of improper storage.

Indications that the ear cushions need replacing include:

• Flaking of the outer covering
• Cuts or tears
• Flattening of the cushion, reducing the effectiveness of the seal

NOTE: To extend the life of the ear cushions, perform regular cleaning.

Remove the old ear cushion

1. Grasp the ear cushion skirt where it folds into the slot on the earcup.
2. Gently pull the ear cushion skirt up and away from the earcup.
   

Install the new ear cushion

1. Properly align the new ear cushion with the earcup.
2. Tuck an edge of the ear cushion skirt into the slot behind the ear cushion flange. Be careful not to fold the skirt over.
3. Gently stretch the cushion around the earcup, working the skirt into the slot as you go.
4. Grasp the ear cushion and adjust its position to remove any folds in the skirt and wrinkles in the cushion.

Headband cushions
Replace the cushion once regular care and maintenance fails to restore the cushion to its original size and shape.

1. On a protected surface, turn the headset upside down.
   
2. Remove the old cushion from the headband.
   
3. While still holding the headband open, align the center of the new cushion with the center of the headband and press firmly from the center toward the outside.

Microphone windscreen
You can remove the windscreen to wash it or to replace it as needed.

1. Gently grasp the microphone base and peel the windscreen away from the microphone.
   
2. Slide the windscreen off the microphone.
3. Slide the new windscreen on the microphone. Make sure it fits completely over the microphone.
   
4. Press the sides of the windscreen to secure into place.
   

Batteries
See "Batteries".

Microphone or terminator cover
See "Microphone Placement".

TRY THESE SOLUTIONS FIRST
If you experience problems with your headset, try these solutions first:

• Power on the headset.
• Check the state of the status lights.
• Make sure the REVERSIONARY operation switch is set to OFF (see "Change the operation switches").
• For Bluetooth models:
  • Make sure your mobile device supports Bluetooth 4.2 and greater.
  • Increase the volume on your Bluetooth device or music app.
  • Try connecting another Bluetooth device.

OTHER SOLUTIONS
If you could not resolve your issue, see the table below to identify symptoms and solutions to common problems. If you are unable to resolve your issue, contact Bose customer service.
Visit: worldwide. Bose.com/Contact

Acoustic Noise Cancelling

Intercom communications

Audio

PROBLEM	WHAT TO DO
Reduced noise cancellation, intermittent clicking sounds, or communication distortion in a loud environment	Make sure the earcups are clean and free of debris. Remove the microphone, then attach again. If the headset emits any loud noise and related loss of communications while in Acoustic Noise Cancelling mode, turn the power off. The headset will continue to provide communications in the passive noise reducing mode.
Squealing or whistling sound when the headset powers on	Make sure the headset orientation is correct. Use the Left and Right markings on the headset to orient the headset correctly. Make sure the ear cushions fully cover your ears. Make sure the earcups are clean and free of debris.
Crackling sound audible with headset turned on in a loud environment, or noise cancelling is intermittent	Make sure the headset orientation is correct. Use the Left and Right markings on the earcups to orient the headset correctly. Make sure the earcups are clean and free of debris. Remove the microphone, then attach again. If using battery power, check if the battery is low. If using aircraft power, make sure the voltage powering the headset is no less than 10 VDC.

If the headset emits any loud noise and related loss of communications while in Acoustic Noise Cancelling mode, turn the power off. The headset will continue to provide communications in the passive noise reducing mode.

Microphone