Why Is My XBox 360 Headset Always Broadcasting?

Online multiplayer games are always more fun when you can communicate with the people you're playing with, but a good time can go bad if your headset is malfunctioning. Xbox 360 headsets are designed to be voice activated and should only broadcast when you speak. If you are in a game and other people are complaining about excessive noise from your headset, there are a few simple things you can try to correct the problem.

 Check Your Connections

 The first things you should check are your physical connections and power sources. Disconnect and reconnect your headset from the controller. If you are using a wireless headset, press the "Connect" button on the console, then press and hold the "Connect" button on the headset to reconnect the headset. If you are using a wired controller, disconnect and reconnect it. Try using fresh batteries; if your device is rechargeable, make sure it is fully charged. You can also try to connect the headset to a different controller.

 Eliminate Ambient Noise
 Since the Xbox headset is voice activated, it could be that ambient noise is causing the microphone to constantly broadcast. Loud music, nearby conversation, noisy appliances and even the game's sounds can cause the microphone on the headset to activate. Eliminate or reduce as much ambient noise as possible and see if the problem is corrected. Heavy breathing has also been known to cause the headset's microphone to activate, so don't keep the microphone too close to your mouth.

 Check for Interference

 2.4 gigahertz wireless signals from wireless networks and cordless phones, microwave ovens, mobile phones and Bluetooth signals can all interfere with the Xbox headset. Unplug or disable any such devices and see if the headset begins working properly. Even if you're solely using wired devices, certain radio waves and wireless signals can interfere with your headset. You can also try positioning yourself closer to the console to reduce interference.

 Defective or Broken Headset

 If you have exhausted all of your options and your headset is still malfunctioning, it could be that it is broken or defective. Contact Xbox Support to report your problem. If the headset is still under warranty you should be able to get it replaced. Keep in mind that you will need the headset's product number when you ask for a replacement.