How Do I Make Ipod Headphones Work With My Computer?

It's possible to use your iPod headphones on your computer.

Apple iPod headphones use a three-ring TRRS (which stands for tip-ting-ting-sleeve) 3.5mm plug, which allows the headphones to function as output and input devices. A computer's "Line out" port uses a two-ring TRS (tip-ring-sleeve) 3.5mm plug. While the plug sizes are the same, the configuration of the TRS and TRRS rings prevent the headphones from properly functioning as output devices on a computer without the aid of an adapter.

Things You'll Need

• iPod headphones
• 3.5mm TRRS-to-TRS adapter

Instructions

1. Insert the plug at the end of the iPod headphones into the port on the TRRS-to-TRS adapter.

2. Insert the plug at the end of the TRRS-to-TRS adapter into the "Speaker out" port of your computer. The "Line out" port of your computer is marked with a bright green ring. If your computer speakers have a "Headphone" port, you can plug the adapter into the speaker's headphone port instead of the computer's "Line out" port.

3. Adjust the volume on your computer before playing music to prevent injury to your ears

Tips & Warnings

• When connected to the adapter, the microphone and remote functions on your iPod headphones will not work. Be sure to disconnect the adapter before plugging your iPod headphones back into your iPod or iPhone device.

References

• Apple: iPod In-Ear headphones
• GeekSpeak: iPhone Headset Plug
• kV Connection: 3.5mm TRRS adapter