How to safely use headphones or earphones with your CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2
Learn how to connect headphones or earphones to your CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2 and use them safely to protect your hearing.
Applies To:
CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2 — All sizes (43", 55", 65", 75", 86", 98")
Quick Summary:
The CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2 supports audio output via the AUDIO OUT port, which can be used with headphones or earphones. This guide covers how to connect them and the important safety steps to follow — particularly for students who may use headphones for extended periods.
Step 1: Lower the volume before connecting
Before you plug in headphones or earphones, always reduce the volume on the CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2 first. This prevents a sudden loud burst of sound when the headphones are connected, which can be startling and potentially harmful to hearing.
⚠️ Always lower the volume before connecting headphones or earphones. Prolonged exposure to loud sounds through headphones can cause permanent hearing damage. This is especially important for children and students.
Step 2: Connect the headphones or earphones
Plug the headphone or earphone jack (3.5mm) into the AUDIO OUT port on the back of the CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2.
💡 Tip: The AUDIO OUT port is a standard 3.5mm audio jack. Most headphones and earphones with a 3.5mm plug will work directly. If your headphones use a different connector (such as USB or 6.35mm), you will need an appropriate adaptor.
Step 3: Set the volume to a safe level
Once connected, gradually increase the volume using the VOL+ button on the remote control until you reach a comfortable listening level. A safe listening level is one where you can still hear someone speaking to you from a normal distance while wearing the headphones.
💡 Tip: A good rule of thumb — if someone standing next to the listener can hear the audio coming from the headphones, the volume is too loud. Keep it low enough that the sound stays contained.
Step 4: Take regular listening breaks
For extended listening sessions — such as during individual student activities — encourage regular breaks from headphone use. This reduces listening fatigue and helps protect hearing over time.
Step 5: Disconnect safely
When finished, lower the volume before removing the headphones. This avoids a sudden sound spike when the audio switches back to the display's built-in speakers.
Step 6: Using external speakers instead
If individual headphone use is not required, the CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2's built-in loudspeaker is suitable for classroom use. For larger spaces, connecting external speakers via the AUDIO OUT port or SPDIF optical output will give better audio coverage. Refer to the article on connecting external speakers for more detail.
Troubleshooting / What to Do If It Doesn't Work
- No sound in headphones — check that the headphone jack is fully inserted into the AUDIO OUT port. Make sure the display is not muted and the volume is turned up.
- Sound still coming from the display speakers as well — the AUDIO OUT port outputs audio alongside the built-in speakers. If you need audio only through headphones, adjust the volume balance in the display's audio settings menu.
- Audio is too quiet even at full volume — check that the headphones themselves are not damaged and try a different pair to confirm.
If you need further help, log a ticket on the Support Portal at support.commbox.com.au.
Video Tutorial (if available) Visit www.commbox.com.au/training-hub for audio setup guides for the CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2.