If you’re a GoPro Hero 4 owner frustrated by a device that refuses to power up, don’t despair just yet. This article aims to provide you with a range of simple troubleshooting tips to help revive your GoPro and get it back up and running. So, before contemplating costly repairs or replacements, let’s explore some common issues and potential fixes that might just bring your adventurous camera back to life.
Check The Battery And Charging Cable
When your GoPro Hero 4 fails to turn on, the first thing you should do is check the battery and charging cable. Make sure the battery is properly inserted and has enough charge. If you have a spare battery, try replacing it to see if that solves the issue.
Next, inspect the charging cable for any signs of damage or fraying. Sometimes a faulty or damaged cable can prevent the camera from powering on. If you suspect a faulty cable, try using a different one to see if that resolves the problem.
It’s also important to make sure that the charging cable is securely connected to both the camera and the power source. Ensure that nothing is obstructing the cable’s connection points.
If everything seems to be in order with the battery and charging cable, but your GoPro Hero 4 still won’t turn on, it may be necessary to explore other troubleshooting options.
Verify Memory Card Compatibility And Condition
When your GoPro Hero 4 fails to turn on, it could be due to a compatibility issue with the memory card or a problem with the card itself. First, check if your memory card is compatible with the GoPro Hero 4. The device supports microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC memory cards with a minimum class 10 rating. If your memory card falls within these specifications, move on to checking its condition.
Remove the memory card from your GoPro and inspect it for any visible physical damage, such as a cracked or bent card. Next, ensure that the memory card is inserted correctly into the GoPro’s memory card slot. If the card seems fine and is properly inserted, try using a different memory card to rule out any potential issues with the original card.
It is important to note that using a slow or defective memory card may cause the GoPro Hero 4 to not turn on or function properly. By verifying the memory card’s compatibility and condition, you can eliminate this as a possible cause and troubleshoot the device more effectively.
Restart The GoPro Hero 4
When your GoPro Hero 4 refuses to turn on, a simple restart might just do the trick. This troubleshooting tip can help resolve various software-related issues that may be causing the problem. To restart your GoPro Hero 4, follow these steps:
1. Make sure the camera is turned off.
2. Remove the battery from the camera.
3. Leave the battery out for at least 10 seconds.
4. Reinsert the battery back into the camera.
5. Turn on the camera and check if it powers up.
Sometimes, the camera’s system can experience a glitch or freeze, preventing it from turning on. By removing the battery and giving it a fresh start, you allow the camera to reset itself and clear any temporary issues. Additionally, performing a restart is a quick and easy troubleshooting step that does not require any technical skills.
If the GoPro Hero 4 still doesn’t turn on after restarting, it’s important to move on to further troubleshooting steps to identify the root cause of the problem.
Perform A Hard Reset On The GoPro
Performing a hard reset on your GoPro Hero 4 can help resolve various issues, including when it won’t turn on. To perform a hard reset, follow these simple steps:
1. Remove the battery: Open the back door of your GoPro and carefully remove the battery from its compartment. Ensure that the camera is turned off before doing this.
2. Press and hold the power button: With the battery removed, press and hold down the power button on your GoPro for about 10-15 seconds. This will discharge any remaining power from the camera.
3. Reinsert the battery: After performing the hard reset, insert the battery back into its compartment. Make sure it is properly aligned and securely in place.
4. Power on the camera: Press the power button to turn on your GoPro Hero 4. If the issue was a minor glitch, the camera should now turn on without any problems.
Performing a hard reset can often fix issues related to firmware crashes or software malfunctions. However, if your GoPro still doesn’t turn on after the hard reset, it may be indicative of a more serious problem, and contacting GoPro customer support for further assistance is recommended.
Ensure Proper Firmware Updates
When your GoPro Hero 4 won’t turn on, it’s crucial to ensure that you have the latest firmware installed. Firmware updates not only introduce new features but also fix any bugs or issues that may be causing your camera to not power on.
To ensure proper firmware updates, start by connecting your GoPro to your computer using a USB cable. Then, go to the official GoPro website and navigate to the support section. Locate the firmware updates for your specific GoPro model and download the latest version.
Once the firmware file is downloaded, extract it and copy it to the root directory of your GoPro’s memory card. Safely disconnect the camera from your computer, turn it on, and wait for the firmware update to automatically start. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.
It’s important to note that during the update process, your GoPro should have a sufficient battery charge. Do not turn off or disconnect the camera from the power source during this process, as it could lead to permanent damage or malfunction.
By ensuring that your GoPro Hero 4 has the latest firmware updates, you can eliminate any possible software-related issues that may be causing your camera’s power problem.
Clean The Camera’s Power Button And Ports
Cleaning the power button and ports of your GoPro Hero 4 can often fix issues related to it not turning on. Over time, dirt, dust, or debris may accumulate on the power button or inside the ports, affecting their functionality. Here’s a quick guide on how to clean them:
1. Power button: Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a cotton swab slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol to gently wipe the power button. Ensure that no liquid enters the camera.
2. Ports: Inspect the ports for any visible dirt or debris. Use compressed air or a can of compressed air specifically made for electronics to blow away the particles. If necessary, use a clean, dry brush to carefully remove stubborn debris.
Regularly cleaning the power button and ports can prevent any potential issues caused by dirt or debris buildup. After cleaning, try turning on your GoPro Hero 4 to see if the issue has been resolved. If not, you can move on to the next troubleshooting methods.
Check For Water Or Physical Damage
If your GoPro Hero 4 won’t turn on, it’s essential to check for any signs of water or physical damage. Water or liquid exposure can severely affect the functionality of your camera, causing it to malfunction or fail to turn on.
Start by inspecting the exterior of your GoPro for any signs of water damage, such as watermarks, corrosion, or discoloration. If you find any indications of water damage, it’s crucial to address it immediately. Wipe off any moisture and remove the battery, memory card, and other removable parts. Place the camera in a dry environment and let it air out for at least 24 hours before attempting to turn it on again.
Additionally, examine the camera for any physical damage, such as cracks, dents, or loose components. Even minor damage can disrupt the device’s power flow and prevent it from turning on. If you notice any visible damage, you may need to take your GoPro Hero 4 to an authorized service center or contact GoPro customer support for further assistance.
Before concluding that your camera is water or physically damaged, try the previous troubleshooting steps to eliminate other potential causes of the issue.
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Contact GoPro customer support for further assistance
If none of the previous troubleshooting steps have worked and your GoPro Hero 4 still won’t turn on, it may be time to reach out to GoPro’s customer support for further assistance. They have a team of experts who can guide you through additional troubleshooting steps or advise on the best course of action to get your camera up and running again.
To contact GoPro customer support, visit their official website and navigate to the support section. There, you will find various options to reach out to them, such as live chat, phone support, or submitting a support ticket. Before contacting them, make sure to gather all the necessary information, such as your camera’s serial number and a detailed description of the issue you are facing.
Remember to be patient and provide as much information as possible to the customer support representative. They will likely ask you to perform some additional troubleshooting steps or may suggest sending in your camera for repairs if needed. The GoPro customer support team is dedicated to helping you resolve any issues and get your GoPro Hero 4 back in working order.
FAQs
FAQ 1: Why won’t my GoPro Hero 4 turn on?
There are several reasons why your GoPro Hero 4 may not turn on. Firstly, make sure that the battery is charged and inserted correctly. If the battery is old or damaged, it may need to be replaced. Additionally, check if the camera’s firmware is up to date, as outdated software can cause power issues. Lastly, try a hard reset by removing the battery and SD card, holding down the power button for 10 seconds, and then reinserting the battery and turning it on.
FAQ 2: What should I do if my GoPro Hero 4 gets stuck on the startup screen?
If your GoPro Hero 4 gets stuck on the startup screen, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take. Firstly, make sure that the battery is fully charged and inserted correctly. If the battery is low or damaged, it may cause the camera to freeze on startup. You can also try resetting the camera by removing the battery and SD card, holding down the power button for 10 seconds, and then reinserting the battery and turning it on. If the issue persists, you may need to update the camera’s firmware or contact GoPro support for further assistance.
FAQ 3: Why does my GoPro Hero 4 keep turning off randomly?
If your GoPro Hero 4 keeps turning off randomly, there are a few potential reasons for this issue. Firstly, check the battery level and ensure it is fully charged. If the battery is low or damaged, it may cause the camera to shut down unexpectedly. Additionally, make sure that the camera’s firmware is up to date, as outdated software can sometimes lead to power issues. If the problem persists, try removing and reformatting the SD card, as corrupted files can also cause the camera to turn off unexpectedly. If none of these solutions work, it is recommended to contact GoPro support for further assistance.
Verdict
In conclusion, when faced with a GoPro Hero 4 that won’t turn on, there are several simple troubleshooting tips that can be followed to potentially resolve the issue. From checking the battery and connections to resetting the camera, these steps can help identify and address the problem. Additionally, ensuring that the firmware is up to date and attempting a manual update if necessary can also prove effective. By following these troubleshooting tips, users can potentially revive their GoPro Hero 4 and resume capturing their adventurous moments.