Fixing a Broken Headphone Jack

Zach writes: My MP3 player is giving me problems. I figured out that it's the earphone jack. It is loose. How can I fix it?

If the earphone jack is on a notebook computer, then the easiest solution is to switch to a USB headset. You can even get a wireless USB model. USB connectors seem to have a much longer functioning life than headphone jacks. Logitech makes a USB headset unit for under $50.

But that doesn't help Zach since there are no USB headsets for MP3 players. You can go the Bluetooth route, though. For an iPod, you can use Logitech's wireless headphones for iPod. A transmitter attaches to the top of the iPod and transmits to your headphones. NaviPlay makes a similar device. If you use another MP3 player, Logitech makes the same basic headphones—the Logitech Wireless Headphones for MP3. Just double check to make sure that your particular headset is supported.

If you'd rather keep using your headphone jack, you could take your MP3 player to a repair service. I made a few calls, and they'd probably charge you anywhere from $40 to $60 to do the work. But for those with endless time, not much money, or a natural curiosity about these things, there's always the DIY approach. Makezine, one of my favorite do-it-yourself treasure troves, has a step-by-step project guide for repairing loose headphone jacks. Not to be outdone, Creative Micro also has a step-by-step for repairing the Zen's headphone jack. Just remember that you can kiss any warranty you might have had goodbye.