If you want to connect a stereo Bluetooth headset to your computer, read this article. In this guide, I'm using Windows 7, a Rocketfish USB dongle, and a Nokia BH-604 headset. However, in general the steps you have to take are not much different.
Step
Step 1. Install the driver for the Bluetooth adapter if necessary
Wait a few moments for the driver to install.
Step 2. Turn on the Bluetooth adapter
Go to the Devices and Printers option, find your Bluetooth adapter, then right-click on it and select Properties. Enable the Allow Devices to Find this computer, Allow devices to connect to this computer, and Alert me when Bluetooth device wants to connect options. You can also show the Bluetooth icon in the notification area by enabling the Show Bluetooth in the Notifications area option.
Step 3. Activate discovery mode on your headset, then search for Bluetooth devices on your computer
Right-click on the Bluetooth icon in the notification area, then click Add Device.
Step 4. Once the Bluetooth device is found, perform the pairing process
Generally, Bluetooth headsets can be paired with the code 0000. Otherwise, consult the headset manual for the pairing code.
Step 5. After the pairing is complete, let the computer search for drivers for the Bluetooth device in Windows Update
Step 6. Set the stereo audio mode on the headset
Right-click the Bluetooth icon in the notification area, then right-click the name of your headset and select Properties. Make sure the Audio Sync and Headset options are checked. You may also need to uncheck the Hands-free Telephony option to prevent the headset from sounding mono when using Skype for calls. After that, click OK to save the changes, and let the computer install the new driver. The computer may not need the driver if the Audio Sync and Headset options are on.
Step 7. Select your headset
Make sure the headset is still on and connected. Open Control Panel, then click Hardware and Sound > Sound. On the Playback tab, you will see the new Bluetooth audio device. The device may be named Stereo Audio, depending on the type of device. Right-click on the device, then click Set as Default. Make sure no sound is playing when you set the headset as the default playback device. If you set the headset as the default sound player while playing a sound, restart the headset.
Step 8. Test the headset by playing music or videos in Windows Media Player
If you hear sound from your headset, congratulations! You have successfully connected the headset to the computer.
Tips
- Some Bluetooth adapters may not provide the A2DP profile. Because of this, the adapter cannot control the headset. Make sure your Bluetooth adapter supports A2DP before connecting the headset to the computer.
- Certain Bluetooth adapters may be difficult to install and may not provide a driver, or require third-party software.
- Most laptops have a built-in Bluetooth feature. Make sure your laptop's built-in Bluetooth adapter supports the audio/voice gateway feature. Some Sony Vaio laptops have Bluetooth software, even if they don't include Bluetooth. You have to replace the default software because it does not support audio profiles.
- Visit the Intel site to download the latest Bluetooth driver. Dell's default drivers are sometimes unfriendly when used for A2DP.
What You Need
- Stereo A2DP headset
- Windows-based computer (Windows 7 recommended)
- Bluetooth adapter, both internal and external.
