Samsung Galaxy Note 2: Top 8 Common Problems and Quick Ways to Solve Them
Samsung Galaxy Note 2 owners experienced the fullness of smartphone and tablet function in one device. Unfortunately, some users reported issues troubling daily activities on the Galaxy Note 2. If you are one of them, know the commonly known issues and do-it-yourself solutions for the Galaxy Note 2.
1. Contacts Disappearance
Issue: There are times that contacts occasionally disappear and details on call logs or messaging will only display the number as if coming from an unregistered contact.
Causes: An application called Call Control may have caused the problem. Other similar applications for call filtering or blocking may cause similar problems. Another cause is the multiple sources of contacts which happen to most phones.
Solution 1: Uninstall the applications which controls, blocks or filters call to solve the problem. Go to Settings > Applications > Select the App > Clear Cache > Clear Data > Uninstall.
Solution 2: Make sure that the accounts you use for contact storage are synced. Go to Contacts > Menu > Accounts.
Solution 3: Double check if the accounts displayed are the right one. Go to Contacts > Menu > Contacts to display.
Solution 4: If you are storing contacts on the SIM card, enable the "Contacts to display" for the SIM.
Solution 5: For duplicated contacts, use the Contacts Sync Fix application to solve the problem.
2. Broken/Cracked Display Screen
Issue: Galaxy Note 2 is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass which generally prevent scratches or cracks after accidental drops. However, due to its enormous size, Galaxy Note 2 is more prone to cracks upon impact.
Causes: Gripping difficulty due to its large size.
Solution: The only way is to have the screen display replaced but make sure that you are careful on ordering a replacement. It is recommended to repair the Galaxy Note 2 in any Samsung service centres even if the charges are expensive.
3. Wi-Fi Sluggishness and Disconnection
Issue: Reports have been found that some Galaxy Note 2 are not connecting properly or having slow connectivity using Wi-Fi.
Causes: Router settings must be set properly to the Galaxy Note 2 which includes the SSID and password. Problems with Internet Service Provider can also deny data transmission on the Wi-Fi connection.
Solution 1: Rebooting the device and the router usually resolves the problem.
Solution 2: Go to Settings > Wi-Fi > Menu > Advanced > Keep Wi-Fi on during sleep > Set as Always.
Solution 3: Check the Smart Wi-Fi application if you are an AT&T subscriber.
Solution 4: When all else fail; factory reset would be the next step. Performing factory reset will delete apps and settings on your device.
4. Unable to Disable Wi-Fi
Issue: Commonly found in the Sprint variant wherein the Wi-Fi connectivity turns itself back on whenever turned off.
Causes: Connections Optimiser is the primary culprit.
Solution 1: Go to Menu > Settings > More Settings > Mobile Networks > Connections Optimiser > Turn it off.
Solution 2: Forget networks on the Wi-Fi network list to fix the problem. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi > Forget network.
5. Galaxy Note 2 Not Charging
Issue: No charging status whenever plugged to its AC power or via USB port.
Causes: Commonly caused by dust blocking the charging and USB port.
Solution 1: Use some compressed air to blow away dust particles on the charging port.
Solution 2: Reboot the device and try again which also identifies if the problem is software-related.
Solution 3: If the charging issue resolved after a reboot, have the device updated to get permanent solution.
Solution 4: If the problem persists, go to the nearest Samsung service centre.
6. Overtime Charging
Issue: The device takes more than three hours to completely recharge the Galaxy Note 2.
Causes: Defective charger was used to recharge the device or being recharged via USB PC connection. Faulty and old battery pack can also cause overtime charging on the device.
Solution 1: Use the Samsung charger provided upon purchase and avoid recharging the device via USB port on your computer because it will take twice as much time to fully charge it.
Solution 2: For faulty or old battery, visit your Samsung service centre to change the battery pack.
7. Buzz or Hiss While Charging
Issue: Some users encounter buzzing or hissing as the device charges.
Causes: The AC charger apparently is the causing the sound and whenever the Galaxy Note 2 absorbs more juice, more buzzing or hissing are noticeable. This is considered normal.
Solution: Charge the device via USB PC port or try a different charger from Samsung. Low-rated charger will lessen noise but recharges the device slowly.
8. Quick Battery Drain
Issue: Noticeable quick battery drain.
Causes: Too many features in use which obviously drains the battery.
Solution 1: Turn off wireless connectivity such as Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth and Mobile Data when not in use.
Solution 2: Determine the app or function which consumes most of the battery. Go to Settings > Battery. Remove the application if you are not using often to prevent instant battery drain,
Solution 3: Update the software of your Galaxy Note 2 which includes several bug fixes and battery enhancements.