FM Transmitter issue

A

aktor

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I know this doesn't really qualify as "PC hardware & gadgets", but I didn't know where else to post it :S

Anyway - I have the Plantronics K100 FM Transmitter to transmit audio from my phone (Galaxy S4) to my car's radio. It worked absolutely great, until a few days ago when it started giving horrible static/hissing for no reason at all. Tried all frequencies - it's not radio station interference. I did notice though that when I hold the transmitter in my hand (or even just if I touch it), that the static/hissing disappears completely. Which leads me to believe that it's not transmitting a strong enough signal unless my body amplifies it.

But that's the kicker - why all of a sudden? The K100 got very good reviews, and I've personally never had any issues with it before now. Any ideas on how I can fix this?
 
Sounds like there is a loose wire in your transmitter. Usually the body of the transmitter forms a little metal cage that acts as the aerial for the transmitter, and the output from the modulator is connected to it by a little wire and solder on both ends. If the solder breaks (it can easily if you drop or knock the device) then it loses connection to the aerial. This is why when you hold it, then it works again. The little solder is probably ever so slightly loose, and you pressing it lightly allows the connection again.

Open it up and see if you can resolder the wire to the aerial casing. It will be obvious to see.... otherwise get a new one.
 
Last edited:
Thanks for the advice, agentrfr. I'll have a look - my only worry about buying a new one before knowing exactly what's causing it, is that it'll go down the same route and it'll be more money wasted :/
 
I've had many of those FM transmitters, the one where you plug your flash disk or iPhone in. Meh, they last a few months, and then just stop working. They're cheap enough to buy another one, or even a spare one.
 
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