Why is my LG QNED85 optical output not working?

Common causes include software issues, connectivity problems, and settings misconfigurations. Follow our guide to fix your LG QNED85.

How do I fix LG QNED85 optical output not working?

Start by restarting your device, checking connections, and updating firmware. Our step-by-step guide provides detailed instructions.

When should I call support for my LG QNED85?

If troubleshooting doesn't resolve the issue, or you encounter persistent errors, contact a certified LG technician.

LG QNED85 Optical Output Not Working

If your LG QNED85 optical output not working is preventing you from enjoying sound through your soundbar, receiver, or home theater system, you're not alone. The optical (TOSLINK) audio port on LG QNED85 series TVs can stop functioning due to software settings, cable issues, or firmware glitches. This guide walks you through proven troubleshooting steps to restore digital audio output and get your external audio equipment working again.

Check Physical Connections and Cable

Before adjusting any settings, rule out hardware problems with your optical cable and connections. The LG QNED85 uses a standard TOSLINK port, but even small issues can interrupt the digital signal.

Inspect the Optical Cable: Remove the cable from both the TV and your audio device. Check for bent pins, debris in the connectors, or visible damage to the cable itself. Optical cables are fragile—kinks or sharp bends can fracture the internal fiber.

Verify Proper Seating: Reinsert the cable firmly until you hear or feel a slight click. The LG QNED85 optical output not working is often caused by a loose connection. Ensure the protective cap is removed from new cables.

Test with a Different Optical Cable: Borrow or purchase a replacement TOSLINK cable to eliminate cable failure. If audio works with a new cable, discard the damaged one.

Configure LG QNED85 Audio Settings Correctly

LG's webOS requires specific output configuration for optical audio to function. Incorrect sound output settings are the most common cause of LG QNED85 optical output not working.

Set Sound Output to Optical: Press the Settings button on your remote, navigate to Sound → Sound Out, and select "Optical" or "Optical/HDMI ARC." If "Internal TV Speaker" is selected, no signal will route to the optical port.

Adjust Digital Sound Out Format: In the same Sound menu, go to Additional Settings → Digital Sound Out. Choose "Pass Through" if connecting to a receiver or soundbar that handles decoding. Select "PCM" only if your external device requires uncompressed stereo—Dolby Digital may cause compatibility issues with older equipment.

Disable SIMPLINK if Necessary: HDMI-CEC (SIMPLINK on LG TVs) can occasionally conflict with optical audio output. Go to General → Devices → HDMI Settings → SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC) and toggle it off temporarily to test whether optical audio resumes.

Warning: Do not use canned air or metal tools to clean the optical port—this can damage the delicate lens inside the LG QNED85 optical output. Use a dry, soft brush or gently blow into the port if debris is visible.

Update Firmware and Perform a Power Reset

Software bugs in webOS can disable audio outputs unexpectedly. Keeping your LG QNED85 updated and refreshing its power state often resolves persistent LG QNED85 optical output not working problems.

Check for Firmware Updates: Navigate to Settings → General → About This TV → Check for Updates. Install any available updates and restart the TV. LG frequently patches audio-related bugs in webOS updates.

Perform a Complete Power Reset: Unplug the TV from the wall outlet, press and hold the physical power button on the TV (not the remote) for 30 seconds, then wait 10 minutes before plugging back in. This drains residual power and clears temporary software glitches affecting the optical output.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my LG QNED85 optical output work intermittently?

Intermittent optical audio usually indicates a failing cable, loose connection, or overheating audio device. Try a certified TOSLINK cable and ensure your soundbar or receiver has adequate ventilation. Software bugs in older webOS versions can also cause dropouts—update to the latest firmware.

Can I use optical and HDMI ARC simultaneously on the LG QNED85?

No—the LG QNED85 only routes audio through one output at a time. Using both connections simultaneously can cause the TV to default to HDMI ARC and disable the optical signal. Select your preferred output in Settings → Sound → Sound Out.

Does the LG QNED85 optical output support Dolby Atmos?

No—optical TOSLINK lacks the bandwidth for Dolby Atmos. For Atmos passthrough, use HDMI eARC (HDMI 2 port on the QNED85). The optical output supports up to 5.1-channel Dolby Digital and DTS, or stereo PCM.