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Question

Bluetooth Connection is not working. I've tried everything.

Aug 12, 2019 8:31AM PDT

I've been trying to troubleshoot my Bluetooth for the past two weeks, and I'm officially breaking down and asking for help. I've tried everything I could find and still nothing has worked. To start off, I'm using an Acer Nitro 5 with the latest version of Windows 10 installed. I've updated my Bluetooth drivers. I've deleted and re-downloaded my Bluetooth drivers. I've restarted my Bluetooth support service five times. I've restarted my computer. I've turned my Bluetooth off and back on again. The only service that shows any indication that something is wrong is the troubleshooter which tells me to "Check Bluetooth radio status." I just want to connect a Controller, but every time I hit "Add Bluetooth or Other Device" and enter the Bluetooth sub menu I just get a window saying that it couldn't connect. Kind people of Cnet, please help a guy out.

Post was last edited on August 12, 2019 8:32 AM PDT

Discussion is locked

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Answer
Don't "update drivers."
Aug 12, 2019 1:15PM PDT
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It does have bluetooth
Aug 12, 2019 1:20PM PDT

I’ve had this computer for half a year already. I used to use Bluetooth headphones with it until I got wired ones. Just recently, however, when I went to connect the controller, it wouldn’t let me sync anything. I can’t even sync the headphones that I used earlier this year.

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Then try again but
Aug 12, 2019 1:34PM PDT

ONLY with the drivers from the maker's web site.

Start with checking the BIOS to be sure it doesn't have Bluetooth disabled, then install the chipset driver package (not to be confused with the next item) and then the Bluetooth driver package from the maker.

I find I have to repeat this advice about the maker's drivers a lot. Folk try the Update Driver button/feature in Windows and well, that path can really mess up a good PC.

If all this fails, plug in some W10 compatible Bluetooth USB stick and try again. Testing if the onboard Bluetooth works is a bit of work. I boot Linux when I must try that out but most of the time the USB Bluetooth works telling us something is amiss with the onboard Bluetooth either hardware or drivers.

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Looks like I’m getting a Bluetooth dongle
Aug 12, 2019 2:03PM PDT

Bluetooth is on in the bios. I just installed the chipset package and the Bluetooth package, and nothing has changed. I guess I’m going to have to get one of those use Bluetooth dongles. Thanks for your time.

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Do those things pair with a smart phone?
Aug 12, 2019 2:08PM PDT

It's the other test I use.

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Answer
Let's hear more about the "Controller"
Aug 12, 2019 1:16PM PDT

Some do not pair with Windows.

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The controller
Aug 12, 2019 1:21PM PDT

The controller is a Power A wireless GameCube controller. I’ve read that it can be paired with a pc.

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I would not make that bet.
Aug 12, 2019 1:35PM PDT

But the headphones is the better test. Be sure they are not paired or in range of say a smartphone or whatever it was paired with before.

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Link
Aug 12, 2019 4:05PM PDT
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Answer
nintendo switch device
Aug 12, 2019 2:49PM PDT

according to amazon questions and answers for that device, it is not compatible with computers

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Answer
Exact same problem !
Apr 21, 2020 4:28AM PDT

I am experiencing exactly the same problem with my Delll Inspiron - Bluetooth suddenly stopped working while I was connected to my headphones and after trying every fix other contributors have suggested, it still does not work . Connects to the internet very well just not bluetooth and it is supposedly the same Qualcomm software that controls both !!

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Re: problem
Apr 21, 2020 4:33AM PDT

It's supposedly the same software. But it's not the same hardware.

- If it works again after you go back to when it still worked with System Restore it's some software issue you solved.
- If it works again after you go back to factory settings it's some software or setting issue you solved.
- If still no luck it's a hardware issue. Then add a Bluetooth dongle.