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Lists hardware and software requirements for headset setup.
Instructions for connecting the headset via the wireless dongle.
Steps to set the headset as default audio device in Windows.
Guide to installing the AWCC or AWHC software.
Steps to install AWHC using the provided wireless dongle.
Details on how long the headset battery lasts.
Explanation of the automatic power-off feature and its settings.
Instructions on adjusting headband and microphone for optimal fit and use.
Solutions for when the headset is not producing sound.
Solutions for when the microphone is not working for others.
Solutions for distorted or unusual audio output.
Solutions for uneven audio levels between left and right channels.
Troubleshooting steps if headset lights are not working.
Solutions when the software cannot detect the headset.
Tips to improve wireless range and connection stability.
Solutions for excessive background noise picked up by the microphone.
Troubleshooting steps for unresponsive volume, balance, or audio buttons.
Solutions for microphone mute problems when using the audio cable.
General information including model number and OS compatibility.
Details on weight, dimensions, and cleaning.
Operating and storage temperature and humidity ranges.
Overview of the headset's limited hardware warranty and return policies.
Specific warranty terms for customers in the U.S.
Warranty terms for customers in EMEA regions.
General warranty terms for customers outside the U.S.
Lists hardware and software requirements for headset setup.
Instructions for connecting the headset via the wireless dongle.
Steps to set the headset as default audio device in Windows.
Guide to installing the AWCC or AWHC software.
Steps to install AWHC using the provided wireless dongle.
Details on how long the headset battery lasts.
Explanation of the automatic power-off feature and its settings.
Instructions on adjusting headband and microphone for optimal fit and use.
Solutions for when the headset is not producing sound.
Solutions for when the microphone is not working for others.
Solutions for distorted or unusual audio output.
Solutions for uneven audio levels between left and right channels.
Troubleshooting steps if headset lights are not working.
Solutions when the software cannot detect the headset.
Tips to improve wireless range and connection stability.
Solutions for excessive background noise picked up by the microphone.
Troubleshooting steps for unresponsive volume, balance, or audio buttons.
Solutions for microphone mute problems when using the audio cable.
General information including model number and OS compatibility.
Details on weight, dimensions, and cleaning.
Operating and storage temperature and humidity ranges.
Overview of the headset's limited hardware warranty and return policies.
Specific warranty terms for customers in the U.S.
Warranty terms for customers in EMEA regions.
General warranty terms for customers outside the U.S.
The Alienware Wireless Gaming Headset AW988 is a high-performance audio device designed for an immersive gaming experience and versatile use with computers and mobile devices. This user-friendly headset offers both wireless and wired connectivity options, ensuring flexibility across various platforms.
The primary function of the Alienware Wireless Gaming Headset AW988 is to provide high-quality audio output and clear voice input for gaming, music listening, and communication. It operates wirelessly via a USB dongle, pre-paired for immediate use with a computer, or can be connected via a 3.5 mm audio cable for compatibility with a wider range of devices, including mobile phones. The headset integrates a retractable boom microphone for clear voice capture, which can be muted by folding it back into the headset or by pressing a dedicated mute button.
The headset is equipped with Alienware two-zone lighting, adding a customizable aesthetic element to the user's setup. It features a power button for easy on/off control, a master volume control for adjusting speaker output, and a game/chat volume mixer control to balance audio levels between in-game sounds and voice chat. An audio preset button allows users to cycle through different sound profiles, such as Gaming, Music, and Movie, to optimize the audio experience for various content types.
For enhanced control and customization, the headset is designed to work with the Alienware Headset Center (AWHC) or Alienware Command Center (AWCC) software. These applications allow users to fine-tune audio settings, manage lighting effects, and adjust other features to suit their preferences. The software also enables users to modify the auto-power-off timer, which automatically turns off the headset after 30 minutes if the wireless connection is lost.
The Alienware Wireless Gaming Headset AW988 prioritizes user comfort and convenience. The headband is adjustable to ensure an optimal fit for different head sizes. The earcups can be rotated, allowing the headset to be worn comfortably around the neck when not in active use or for easier storage.
Wireless connectivity is established by simply plugging the pre-paired USB wireless dongle into a computer's USB port. For wired use, the included 3.5 mm audio cable connects the headset to a computer or mobile device. When connected via the 3.5 mm cable, the headset's speakers and microphone function even if the headset is powered off, although the buttons and LEDs will not be active. It's important to note that audio presets are not supported when using the 3.5 mm audio port.
The retractable boom microphone is a key feature, allowing users to position it approximately two centimeters from their mouth for optimal voice clarity. The microphone can be muted by folding it up, indicated by a red mute light and an audible prompt, or by pressing the microphone mute button.
Audio control is intuitive with dedicated physical controls. The master volume control allows for quick adjustments to the overall speaker volume. The game/chat volume mixer control is particularly useful for gamers, enabling them to balance the volume between game audio and chat audio. Users can focus on game volume by turning the control up (reducing chat volume), focus on chat volume by turning it down (reducing game volume), or set it to the center position for original levels, indicated by a white marker.
The headset also provides clear battery status indicators. While charging, a green light indicates a charge above 80%, orange signifies between 10% and 80%, and red means below 10%. When not charging, the battery status light indicates above 10% charge (off) or below 10% (red), alerting users to low battery levels. The headset offers a substantial battery life, lasting up to 14 hours with lights off or 8 hours with lights on, with a full charge taking approximately 2.5 hours.
For portability and safekeeping, the USB wireless dongle can be conveniently stored within a dedicated slot in the headset. It secures with an audible click and is held in place by a magnet, making it easy to store and retrieve.
The Alienware Wireless Gaming Headset AW988 is designed with simple maintenance in mind. The earcup cushions are removable and replaceable, allowing users to easily refresh or customize their headset. To remove a cushion, it is held firmly and rotated clockwise (for the left cushion) or counter-clockwise (for the right cushion), then pulled away. Replacement involves fitting the new cushion around the earcup edges and rotating it into position. New earcup cushions can be ordered from Dell's website.
General cleaning of the headset can be performed with a damp cloth. The manual emphasizes that no specific parts are washable, indicating that surface cleaning is the recommended approach for maintaining hygiene and appearance.
Software updates and installations are crucial for optimal performance and access to all features. The Alienware Headset Center (AWHC) or Alienware Command Center (AWCC) can be installed automatically when the wireless dongle is connected to a computer with internet access, or manually downloaded from the Dell Support website. Regular checks for Windows Updates are recommended to ensure the latest drivers and software are installed, which can resolve potential issues and enhance functionality. If the software installation or driver update encounters problems, troubleshooting steps include restarting the computer, replugging the wireless dongle, or reinstalling the application.
General| Battery capacity | 1200 mAh |
|---|---|
| Rechargeable battery | Yes |
| Continuous audio playback time | 14 h |
| Quantity per pallet | 144 pc(s) |
| Quantity per master (outer) case | 3 pc(s) |
| Package depth | 230 mm |
| Package width | 110 mm |
| Package height | 245 mm |
| Package weight | 1134 g |
| Cable color | Black |
| Headset type | Binaural |
| Product type | Headset |
| Wearing style | Head-band |
| Volume control | Rotary |
| Backlight color | Multicolor |
| Recommended usage | Gaming |
| Bluetooth | No |
| USB connector | Micro-USB |
| Frequency band | 2.4 GHz |
| Connectivity technology | Wired & Wireless |
| Quantity | 1 |
| Cables included | Audio (3.5mm), Micro-USB |
| Wireless receiver interface | USB |
| Impedance | 16 Ω |
| Ear coupling | Circumaural |
| Headphone frequency | 20 - 20000 Hz |
| Headphone sensitivity | 107 dB |
| Microphone type | Boom |
| Microphone frequency | 50 - 20000 Hz |
| Microphone direction type | Unidirectional |
| USB port type | Micro-USB B |
| Base station weight | - g |
| Base station dimensions (W x D x H) | - mm |
Weight and Dimensions| Depth | 93.12 mm |
|---|---|
| Width | 189.83 mm |
| Height | 192.76 mm |
| Weight | 380 g |
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