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Bose QuietComfort 3 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones
Owners Guide Guia de usuario Notice dutilisation
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Safety Information

Please read this owners guide Please take the time to follow the instructions in this owners guide carefully. It will help you to properly use your new Bose product and enjoy its features. Please save this owners guide for future reference. WARNINGS
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose the battery charger to rain or moisture. Do not expose the charger to dripping or splashing of liquids. The battery charger must be used indoors. It is neither designed nor tested for use outdoors, in recreation vehicles, or on boats. Charge the battery only on a charger approved by Bose Corporation. Do not continue charging the battery if it does not reach full charge within the specified charging time. Doing so may cause the battery to become hot, rupture, or ignite. If you see any heat deformation or leakage, properly dispose of the battery. Do not expose the battery to temperatures greater than 212F (100C). If exposed to excessive heat, the battery can catch fire and explode. Do not place the battery in direct sunlight, or use or store it inside cars in hot weather where it can be exposed to temperatures in excess of 140F (60C). Doing so may cause the battery to generate heat, rupture, or ignite. Using the battery in this manner also may result in a loss of performance and a shortened life expectancy. Do not short circuit the battery. Avoid placing it around metal objects such as keys, pocket change, paper clips, and jewelry. Do not hit the battery with a hammer, step on, throw or drop it to expose it to a strong shock. Do not pierce the battery with a sharp object such as a nail. Do not crush, dent, or deform the battery in any way. If the battery becomes deformed, properly dispose of it. The battery used in this device may present a risk of fire or chemical burn if mistreated. Do not disassemble, heat above 212F (100C), or incinerate. Replace battery with Bose part PC40229 only. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.

Franais

Espaol

English

CAUTIONS
Do not allow the battery to get wet. Avoid using it in high humidity environments. Avoid electrostatic discharge to the battery. Do not drop or sit on the headphones, or allow them to be immersed in water. Long-term exposure to loud music may cause hearing damage. It is best to avoid extreme volume when using these headphones, especially for extended periods. Do not use these headphones when operating a motor vehicle on a public road, or where the inability to hear outside sounds may present a danger to you or others. Sounds that you rely on as reminders or warnings may have an unfamiliar character when you are using the headphones. Be aware of how these sounds vary in character, so you can recognize them as needed.
Please dispose of used or damaged batteries promptly and properly, following any local regulations. Keep away from children. Do not incinerate. To return batteries for recycling, contact Bose or your Bose dealer. In the United States only, call 1-800-905-2180. For other regions, see the contact information on the inside back cover. This product conforms to the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC and to the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC. The complete Declaration of Conformity can be found at www.bose.com/static/compliance/index.html.
2009 Bose Corporation. No part of this work may be reproduced, modified, distributed, or otherwise used without prior written permission.

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Important Safety Instructions

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.
Read these instructions for all components before using this product. Keep these instructions for future reference. Heed all warnings on the product and in the owners guide. Follow all instructions. Do not use this product near water or moisture Do not use this product near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, near a swimming pool, or anywhere else that water or moisture are present. Clean only with a dry cloth and as directed by Bose Corporation. Unplug the battery charger from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturers instructions. Do not install near any heat sources, such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. Only use attachments/accessories specified by Bose. Unplug the battery charger during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time to prevent damage to this product. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way: such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged; liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus; the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltages or other hazards. Please call Bose to be referred to an authorized service center near you.

Espaol Franais

Compliance with FCC rules (U.S.A., only)
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, this is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, you are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment to an outlet on a different circuit than the one to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

NOTICE

FCC WARNING
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the users authority to operate this equipment. Proper connections must be used for connection to a host computer and/or peripherals in order to meet FCC emission limits.
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Welcome

Introducing the QuietComfort 3 Acoustic Noise Cancelling headphones
Thank you for purchasing the QuietComfort 3 Acoustic Noise Cancelling headphones from Bose. Our innovative technologies enable these on-ear headphones to reduce unwanted distractions while providing you with lifelike audio performance and a comfortable fit.
Adjustable headband Rotating earcups
L (left) mark Replaceable ear cushions
R (right) mark Power switch with power indicator Accessories included: Ports
Battery Headphones audio cord

Dual-plug adapter

Battery charger

Carrying case

IMPORTANT: Before initial headphone use, it is important to fully charge the battery for a minimum of two hours. See Charging the battery on page 5.
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Preparing Your Headphones Charging the battery
Preparing Your Headphones
Initial charging time for a new battery is approximately two hours. After that, charging time varies depending on the battery charge state. 1. Insert the battery into the charger. 2. 3. Swing the plug prongs out of the charger body. Plug the charger into a live AC (mains) outlet. 3 Indicator: On = Charging Off = Charging complete Flashing = See Troubleshooting on page 10.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT STORE A BATTERY IN THE CHARGER. After charging, unplug the battery charger and remove the battery. Storing a battery in the charger diminishes the charged state of the battery over time and may permanently reduce the capacity of the battery.
Battery handling and precautions
The battery does not have to be completely discharged in order to charge it. You can charge the battery at any time. Never leave the battery in a discharged state. Charge after use and before storage. Avoid extreme temperatures when charging the battery. Battery charging should occur within the temperature range of 32F (0C) to 95F (35C). A fully charged battery provides approximately 25 hours of use. Replace the battery when it no longer provides adequate power after charging. To order a replacement battery, see Troubleshooting on page 10. Keep the terminals on the battery, in the charger, and in the right earcup of the headphones clean at all times. Dirty terminals may cause poor electrical connections and affect performance. For cleaning instructions, see Cleaning on page 10.

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Installing the battery

Be sure to fully charge the battery before first use. See Charging the battery on page 5. 1. 2. Make sure the headphones power switch is off. Hold the headphones right earcup as shown. Insert the battery into the compartment. Be sure to push the battery all the way in until it is flush with the earcup. Battery Headband

Right earcup

Removing the battery for charging
Perform Step 1 and 2 and lift the battery straight up and out of the battery compartment.
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Using Your Headphones Wearing your headphones

Using Your Headphones

You can use your headphones only for noise reduction or for listening to audio along with the benefit of noise reduction. As you put on the headphones, observe the L (left) and R (right) markings that identify the left and right earcups. Adjust the headband so it rests gently on top of your head and the earcup cushions fit comfortably on your ears.
Using your headphones for audio with noise reduction
For listening to an audio source, you need to use the supplied headphones cord. 1. Plug the appropriate end of the headLeft phones cord into the left earcup. earcup 2. Plug the other end of the cord into the audio device (see Connecting to portable and home audio devices on page 8). Turn on the audio device, making sure the volume is initially set to a low level. Turn on your headphones. The power switch indicator should light. Set the volume level using the volume control on the audio device.

3. 4. 5.

Headphones cord
Using your headphones only for noise reduction
When using the headphones just for noise reduction, you do not need to connect the headphones cord. Just turn on your headphones and put them on your head.

Power switch indicator

When the battery needs charging
When the power switch indicator starts flashing the battery is in a low-charge state. From the moment the indicator starts flashing, the battery has about four hours of life left. When replacing a battery, make sure you charge the new battery for a minimum of two hours. See Charging the battery on page 5. Before storing the battery for an extended period of time, fully charge the battery to maximize its life.

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Connecting to portable and home audio devices
The 3.5 mm plug on the headphones cord allows you to connect your headphones to a variety of audio devices that use a 3.5 mm output jack: CD, DVD, or MP3/digital audio player Desktop or laptop personal computer
Connecting to airline audio systems
The audio output connections on airline audio systems vary, but they typically have dual or single 3.5 mm output jacks. Note: Airline audio may not equal the high-quality audio you experience from a home stereo or portable source.
Connecting to dual output jacks
Plug the headphone cord into the dualplug adapter and insert it into the dual output jacks. Dual 3.5 mm plugs

Headphones cord jack

Connecting to a single output jack
Pivot the movable plug so that it snaps in place against the adapter body. Plug the Single 3.5 headphone cord into the adapter and mm plug insert it into the single output jack. Headphones Movable The dual-plug adapter lowers the volume cord jack plug levels of strong audio output signals that are common on airline systems. If you find that the volume level is too low, remove the adapter and plug the headphone cord directly into the 3.5 mm output jack. WARNING: Use only the Bose airline adapter to connect headphone to
airplane seat jacks. DO NOT use adapters intended for mobile phones as this could result in personal injury such as burns or property damage due to overheating. Remove and disconnect immediately if you experience warming sensation or loss of audio.
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Care and Maintenance Folding and storing

Care and Maintenance

QuietComfort 3 Acoustic Noise Cancelling headphones feature rotating earcups that fold flat for easy, convenient storage.
Right Left Espaol Franais CAUTION: The earcups rotate only in one direction. Incorrectly rotating the earcups can damage the headphones.

Using the carrying case

The carrying case provides safe storage for your headphones and its accessories. The foam tray holding the battery and charger is removable, allowing you to store other items, such as an MP3 player, in the case. Note: To maximize battery life, always charge the battery before storing it and never store the battery in the charger. Battery Dual-plug Charger adapter
Space for headphones cord

Headphones

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Cleaning

Scheduled cleaning is not required. However, you can simply wipe the outside surface of the headphones with a dry cloth, as needed. Also, be sure that the earcup ports are clear and that no moisture is allowed into the earcups. Use only a dry cloth to clean the electrical contacts on the battery, in the charger, or in the battery compartment of the headphones. CAUTIONS: Be sure to unplug the battery charger before cleaning it. DO NOT use a moist cloth to clean the electrical contacts on the battery, in the charger, or in the battery compartment of the headphones.

Troubleshooting

If you experience any trouble using your headphones, try the instructions in the following table. If you still need help, call for technical assistance. In the United States only, call 1-800-905-2180. For other regions, see the contact information on the inside back cover. Problem What to do
No noise reduction Make sure the headphones power switch is on. Charge the battery. Low or no volume Make sure the audio source is on and the volume is turned up. Do not use the dual-plug adapter. Check the headphones cord connection at the source and the earcup. Charge the battery. Crackling noise; intermittent loss of Clean the contacts on the battery and in the battery noise reduction compartment. See Cleaning on page 10. Replace the battery. Low rumbling sound Charger indicator is flashing Adjust earcup fit on your ears. Make sure earcup ports are not blocked. Remove the battery, wait 10 seconds, and insert it again. Unplug the charger, wait 10 seconds, and plug it in again. Make sure the air temperature is within the acceptable range for charging, 32F (0C) to 95F (35C). Replace the battery. Replace the charger. Replace the battery. Replace the charger.
Short battery life after charging
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Care and Maintenance Reattaching earcup cushions
If an earcup cushion becomes detached from the earcup: 1. Align the two holes on the back of the cushion with the two posts on the earcup. 2. 3. 4. Push the cushion onto the earcup. Press in around the outside edge of the cushion to snap it in place. Make sure the cushion is flush all the way around and that there are no gaps between the cushion and the earcup.

Accessories

You can purchase accessories from your Bose dealer, on the Internet (www.bose.com), or by placing an order over the phone. See the inside back cover for contact information. Battery QC 3 Mobile Communications Kit Battery charger Carrying case Replacement ear cushions Accessory kit (includes adapters and extension cable) 5 ft. (1.5 m) audio extension cable

Power ratings

Battery charger: 100VAC - 240VAC, 5.5W Battery: 3.7VDC, 200mAh
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Informacin de seguridad

Lea esta gua del usuario. Dedique el tiempo que sea necesario para seguir atentamente las instrucciones de esta gua del usuario, que le ayudar a utilizar correctamente su nuevo producto Bose y a disfrutar de sus funciones. Guarde la gua del usuario para utilizarla como material de referencia en el futuro.

QUIETCOMFORT 15

ACOUSTIC NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES
Owners Guide Brugervejledning Bedienungsanleitung Gua de usuario Omistajan opas Notice dutilisation Felhasznli tmutat Manuale di istruzioni Gebruiksaanwijzing Podrcznik uytkownika Bruksanvisningen
QUIETCOMFORT 15 ACOUSTIC NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES
2009 Bose Corporation, The Mountain, Framingham, MA 01701-9168 USA AM323648 Rev.00
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TAB 8, 16

TAB 7, 15

TAB 6, 14

TAB 5, 13

TAB 4, 12

TAB 3, 11 English TAB 2, 10

English

Safety Information
Please read this owners guide
Reading this owners guide will help you to properly use your new Bose product and enjoy its features. Please save this owners guide for future reference. WARNING: Sounds that you rely on as warnings or reminders may have an unfamiliar character when you are using the headphones. Be aware of how these sounds vary in character, so you can recognize them as needed. Long-term exposure to loud music may cause hearing damage. It is best to avoid extreme volume when using these headphones, especially for extended periods. Keep batteries out of reach of children. CAUTION: Do not use these headphones when operating a motor vehicle, or where the inability to hear outside sounds may present a danger to you or others. Do not drop, sit on, or allow the headphones to be immersed in water.

Limited Warranty

Your QuietComfort 15 headphones are covered by a limited transferable warranty. Details of the limited warranty are provided on the product registration card that is included in the carton. Please refer to the card for instructions on how to register. Failure to register will not affect your limited warranty rights. What you must do to obtain Limited Warranty Service: Return product, with proof of purchase from an authorized Bose dealer, using the following procedures:
1. Contact the Bose organization in your country/region (visit
Global.Bose.com for Bose 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; and
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.

Batteries

Please dispose of used batteries properly, following any local regulations. Do not incinerate. This product conforms to the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC and to the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC. The complete Declaration of Conformity can be found on www.Bose.com/compliance.
2009 Bose Corporation. No part of this work may be reproduced, modified, distributed, or otherwise used without prior written permission.
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TAB 2, 10

TAB 3, 11
Thank you for purchasing the QuietComfort 15 Acoustic Noise Cancelling headphones from Bose. Three decades of research have resulted in the most advanced Bose consumer noise reduction technology ever to be developed. The QuietComfort 15 headphones offer this noise reduction technology while maintaining our acclaimed lifelike audio performance and comfort. Enjoy them when you fly, work, or just relax.
QuietComfort 15 headphones

Carrying case

Headphones cord

Battery

Airline adapter
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Before you put on the headphones
1. Tilt the top of the right earcup inward to gain access to the battery compartment. 2. Open the battery compartment and insert the battery as shown.

For noise reduction only

Put on the headphones. On the right earcup, slide the power switch forward to the On position. The battery light indicator will illuminate.

AAA alkaline battery (IEC LR03)
You do not need to connect the headphones cord for noise reduction only operation.
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For noise reduction and audio
2. Connect the headphones cord to an audio source. For information on using your headphones on an airplane, see Connecting to in-flight entertainment systems on page 4.
You can use the headphones with a variety of audio sources: airline audio, a CD, DVD or MP3 player, a personal or laptop computer, or home stereo. The maximum input voltage is 9 Vrms. To enjoy both noise reduction and audio: 1. Gently push the headphones plug all the way into the connector opening on the left earcup, until the plug housing is flush with the earcup.
Note: The LO setting of the LEVEL switch lowers the volume levels of strong audio output signals which are common on airline systems. If you find that the volume level is too low, set the LEVEL switch to HI. The switch has no effect on noise reduction performance.
3. Put on the headphones. On the right earcup, slide the power switch forward to the On position. The battery light indicator will illuminate.
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Connecting to in-flight entertainment systems
Audio jack configurations on airplanes vary. Notice the jack configurations in the chart below. A single, 3.5 mm jack (on most portable sources) Use the single plug. No adapter needed. One 3.5 mm jack and one power jack Use the single plug in the 3.5 mm jack (the larger one). The smaller jack does not need a connection. Two 3.5 mm jacks Use the dual 3.5 mm output plug adapter. One power jack and two 3.5 mm jacks Use the dual 3.5 mm output plug adapter for the two 3.5 mm jacks. The power jack does not need a connection.
To connect to in-flight entertainment systems equipped with dual output connectors, use the dual 3.5 mm output plug.
Note: Airline audio may not equal the high quality audio you can get from a home stereo or a portable source. WARNING: Use only the Bose airline adapter to connect headphone to airplane seat jacks. DO NOT use adapters intended for mobile phones to connect to the airline seat jack, as this could result in personal injury such as burns or property damage due to overheating. Remove and disconnect immediately if you experience warming sensation or loss of audio.
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Storing the headphones

To store the headphones in the case, rotate the earcups inward, then place the headphones in the case.
Battery life and replacement
Although it varies by usage, battery life averages 35 hours. The battery light indicator starts flashing when there are approximately 5 hours of battery life remaining. When a replacement is needed, use a AAA alkaline battery (IEC LR03).

Note: Remaining battery life may vary when using rechargeable batteries. NiMH batteries, composed of nickel metal hydride, are recommended.

Cleaning the headphones

Scheduled cleaning is not required. However, you can simply wipe the outside surfaces with a damp cloth, as needed. Also, be sure that the earcup ports are clear and that no moisture is allowed into the earcups.
CAUTION: Incorrectly rotating the earcups can damage the headphones.
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Reattaching the earcup cushions
If a cushion becomes partially or completely detached: 1. Push its mounting rim back into the earcup.

Troubleshooting

Problem

No noise reduction

What to do
Make sure the headphones power is switched on and the battery light indicator is illuminated. Replace the battery. Make sure the audio source is on and the volume is turned up. Set LEVEL switch to HI. Check the headphones cord connection at the source and the earcup. Check the headphones cord connection at the source and the earcup. Replace the battery. Adjust the fit of the headphones on your ears. Make sure no foreign objects are inside the earcups. Make sure port holes are not blocked Turn the source volume down. Set LEVEL switch to LO.

Low or no volume

Crackling noise; intermittent loss of noise reduction
2. Press around the edge of the mounting rim, making sure it snaps into place under all eight tabs around the earcup.

Low rumbling sound

Replacement parts and accessories
You can purchase accessories from your Bose dealer, at global.Bose.com, or by placing an order over the phone. See the inside back cover for contact information.

Volume too high

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Other Considerations

QuietComfort 15 headphones are designed for passenger use on jet aircraft. They are not engineered to meet the needs of pilots and crew members or to meet civil aviation authority standards for communication headsets. For pilots and and crew members who require communication headsets, Bose offers an aviation headset specifically designed to meet or exceed civil authority standards. It features a microphone with the appropriate power and intelligibility for critical communication needs. It is also engineered to withstand the environmental conditions that are common in unpressurized aircraft.
WARNING: Except in case of emergency, Bose recom-
mends that you NOT use these headphones as aviation communication headsets because: No incoming audio will be heard with a discharged or improperly installed battery. This could result in the potential of missed communications while piloting an aircraft. Extremely loud ambient noise levels common to many propeller-driven aircraft may impair your ability to receive incoming audio communications, particularly during takeoff and climb out. The QuietComfort 15 headphones are not engineered for noise conditions, altitude, temperature or other environmental conditions common in non-commercial aircraft, resulting in possible interference to critical communications.

2009 Bose Corporation, The Mountain, Framingham, MA 01701-9168 USA AM323648 Rev.01