The GoPro Hero 5 is a popular action camera that is known for its durability and high-quality video capabilities. However, like any electronic device, there may be times when it encounters issues and won’t turn on. This can be frustrating, especially if you have important footage or events that you want to capture. In this article, we will provide you with troubleshooting tips to help you fix your GoPro Hero 5 and get it back up and running in no time.
Firstly, it’s important to determine whether the issue is related to the battery or the camera itself. We will guide you through steps such as checking the battery level, making sure it is properly inserted, and using a different battery to see if the problem persists. We will also explore possible software issues and guide you on how to update the firmware or perform a factory reset. By following these troubleshooting tips, you’ll have a better chance of resolving the issue and ensuring you can continue capturing your adventures with your GoPro Hero 5.
Check The Battery And Charging Cable
When your GoPro Hero 5 won’t turn on, the first thing you should do is check the battery and charging cable. Ensure that the battery is inserted correctly and has enough charge. Sometimes, a drained battery can prevent the camera from powering on. If the battery is low, connect the camera to a power source using the original charging cable and adapter.
Remember to use the original charging cable as third-party cables may not provide sufficient power to charge the camera. Also, check the charging cable for any signs of damage such as frayed wires or bent connectors. If the cable appears damaged, try using a different cable to see if that resolves the issue.
In some cases, a faulty battery or charging cable might be the reason for the camera not turning on. If you have access to a spare battery or cable, try using them to determine if the issue lies with the camera’s hardware or accessories. If replacing the battery or charging cable doesn’t solve the problem, proceed to the next troubleshooting step.
Reset The GoPro Hero 5
Resetting the GoPro Hero 5 can be an effective solution if your device won’t turn on. This process helps to clear any temporary software glitch that may be causing the issue. To reset your GoPro Hero 5, follow these steps:
1. Remove the battery from the camera.
2. Remove the SD card from the camera.
3. Hold down the Mode button on the front of the GoPro.
4. While holding the Mode button, insert the battery into the camera.
5. Continue holding the Mode button for about 10 seconds, then release it.
6. Wait a few seconds and then reinsert the SD card.
By performing a reset, you are essentially restarting the GoPro Hero 5 and giving it a fresh start. This can often resolve issues related to power failure or unresponsiveness. If the problem persists after resetting, it is recommended to move on to the next troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue.
Update The Firmware
Updating the firmware of your GoPro Hero 5 can often resolve issues and improve performance. Firmware is the internal software that controls the camera’s functions and features. Here is a brief overview of how to update the firmware on your GoPro Hero 5.
First, ensure that your camera’s battery is fully charged or connected to a power source to prevent any interruptions during the update process. Next, connect your GoPro to your computer using the provided USB cable. Make sure your computer is connected to the internet.
Once connected, open the GoPro Quik for Desktop application or visit the GoPro website to download the latest firmware update for your GoPro Hero 5. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the firmware update. It may take a few minutes for the update to complete.
After the update is finished, disconnect your GoPro from the computer and power it on to ensure the update was successful. If the camera still won’t turn on, proceed with the remaining troubleshooting steps.
Updating the firmware is an essential troubleshooting step as it can often resolve any software-related issues that may be preventing your GoPro Hero 5 from turning on.
Perform A Manual Software Update
Performing a manual software update on your GoPro Hero 5 can help fix the issue of it not turning on. Here’s how you can do it:
1. First, make sure you have a stable internet connection.
2. Go to the official GoPro website and navigate to the “Support” section.
3. Look for the software update downloads for your specific model of GoPro Hero 5.
4. Download the latest software update onto your computer.
5. Connect your GoPro Hero 5 to your computer using a USB cable.
6. Open the software update file you downloaded earlier.
7. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the update onto your GoPro Hero 5.
8. Once the update is complete, disconnect your GoPro Hero 5 from the computer.
9. Try turning on your GoPro Hero 5 to see if the issue has been resolved.
Performing a manual software update can often fix any software-related issues that may prevent your GoPro Hero 5 from turning on. It is recommended to keep your GoPro firmware up to date to ensure optimal performance.
Inspect And Clean The Power Button And Connections
Sometimes, a faulty power button or dirty connections can prevent your GoPro Hero 5 from turning on. If you have tried checking the battery, resetting the device, and updating the firmware without any success, it’s time to inspect and clean the power button and connections.
Start by gently removing the battery and any memory cards from the camera. Take a closer look at the power button and surrounding area for any signs of damage or debris. Dust, dirt, or moisture can accumulate over time and hinder the proper functioning of the power button.
Using a soft, lint-free cloth and a small amount of isopropyl alcohol, carefully clean the power button and connections. Be gentle to avoid causing any additional damage. Ensure that all parts are completely dry before reassembling the camera.
After cleaning, reinsert the battery and try turning on your GoPro Hero 5. If the issue persists, it may be a more complex problem that requires professional assistance.
Contact GoPro Customer Support For Further Assistance
If all the troubleshooting tips mentioned above fail to fix the issue and your GoPro Hero 5 still won’t turn on, it may be time to reach out to GoPro’s customer support for further assistance. Contacting GoPro directly can provide you with more specific and personalized solutions to your problem.
GoPro’s customer support team is well-equipped to handle a wide range of issues and can help diagnose the problem with your camera. They can guide you through additional troubleshooting steps or suggest the best course of action based on the symptoms you’re experiencing.
To contact GoPro customer support, you can visit their official website and navigate to the support section. There, you will find various options to get in touch with them, such as live chat, email, or phone support. Make sure to provide them with detailed information about the problem you’re facing and any steps you’ve already taken to troubleshoot it.
Remember, GoPro customer support is there to assist you, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need further help with your GoPro Hero 5.
FAQ
1. Why isn’t my GoPro Hero 5 turning on?
There could be several reasons why your GoPro Hero 5 is not turning on. It could be due to a drained battery, a faulty power button, a firmware issue, or a hardware malfunction.
2. What should I do if my GoPro Hero 5 won’t turn on?
First, try charging the battery using a different charger or USB cable. If that doesn’t work, remove the battery and SD card, then reinsert them and try turning it on. If the problem persists, try performing a factory reset or updating the firmware.
3. How do I perform a factory reset on my GoPro Hero 5?
To perform a factory reset, start by powering off your GoPro Hero 5. Then, press and hold the Mode button on the front of the camera while pressing the Shutter button. Keep holding both buttons until the camera powers on and the “RESET” option appears on the screen. Use the Mode button to navigate the menu and select “RESET,” then press the Shutter button to confirm.
4. Can I fix a faulty power button on my GoPro Hero 5?
If the power button on your GoPro Hero 5 is not working, it may require professional repair or replacement. However, before seeking professional help, you can try cleaning the button with a soft cloth or compressed air. If that doesn’t work, contact the GoPro support team or visit an authorized service center for assistance.
5. Are there any other troubleshooting tips for my non-responsive GoPro Hero 5?
Yes, here are a few additional troubleshooting tips you can try if your GoPro Hero 5 is still not turning on:
– Remove the SD card and try turning it on without the card inserted.
– Try using a different battery to rule out a faulty battery issue.
– Connect your GoPro to a computer or charger and leave it for several hours to see if it starts charging and eventually turns on.
– If none of the above steps work, contact GoPro customer support for further assistance or consider professional repair.
Final Words
In conclusion, troubleshooting tips can be extremely helpful when trying to fix a GoPro Hero 5 that won’t turn on. By following these steps, users can identify potential issues such as a drained battery or faulty power button and take appropriate action. Additionally, performing a manual update or contacting GoPro support can also resolve software-related problems. It is important for users to exercise caution when attempting to fix their device, especially if it involves opening the camera or tinkering with its internal components. If all else fails, seeking professional help or considering a replacement may be necessary. Overall, with the right troubleshooting approach and some patience, users can effectively resolve most power-related issues with their GoPro Hero 5.
To prevent future problems with the GoPro Hero 5, it is recommended to ensure that proper charging practices are followed. Keeping the battery charged and avoiding leaving the camera idle for extended periods can prevent issues such as a drained battery. Additionally, regularly checking for software updates and installing them promptly can help keep the camera functioning optimally. In cases where the camera continues to exhibit power-related problems, reaching out to GoPro customer support can provide additional guidance and assistance. It is essential to remember that attempting any repairs beyond basic troubleshooting should be done with caution and preferably by professionals. Ultimately, understanding and addressing common power-related issues can help users maintain the longevity and functionality of their GoPro Hero 5.