Kinect "Searching for Device" Issue After a Windows 11 Update

Kinect "Searching for Device" Issue After a Windows 11 Update

Introduction

Some VAST.Rehab users running a Kinect sensor on Windows 11 have noticed that, after installing the latest Windows update, the Patient Panel briefly shows a "Searching for device" message. The message disappears on its own, and the Kinect then looks disconnected or improperly connected, even though the sensor and all cables are working correctly. This issue has only been observed on Windows 11; Windows 10 is not affected. In this article, we explain why this happens and how to fix it.

Understanding the Cause

Recent Windows 11 updates turn on "Audio enhancements" by default for connected microphones, including the microphone built into the Kinect sensor. When these enhancements are active, they interfere with the way VAST.Rehab communicates with the Kinect. As a result, the Patient Panel briefly loses track of the device and searches for it again, even though the Kinect itself is properly connected.

Typical symptoms include:

  1. The Patient Panel shows "Searching for device," and the message then disappears on its own.
  2. The Kinect appears disconnected or improperly connected, even though all cables are secure.
  3. The issue only appears on Windows 11, after installing a recent Windows update, and does not occur on Windows 10.

Solution

  1. Open Settings (press the Windows key + I, or go to Start > Settings).
  2. Select System, then Sound.
  3. Under "Input," click the Kinect's microphone. Depending on your Windows version, it may be listed as "Xbox NUI Sensor," "Kinect Microphone Array," or a similar name.
  4. Open the device's Properties, then go to the "Audio enhancements" section.
  5. Turn "Audio enhancements" off.
  6. Close Settings, then restart VAST.Rehab, or simply reopen the Patient Panel. The Kinect should now connect normally, and the "Searching for device" message should not reappear.


Good to Know

If a future Windows update turns audio enhancements back on automatically, the "Searching for device" message may return. If this happens, simply repeat the steps above.

Conclusion

Turning off audio enhancements for the Kinect's microphone allows VAST.Rehab to detect and stay connected to the Kinect reliably on Windows 11. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience as Windows continues to change its default audio settings. If the issue continues after following these steps, please reach out to our support team.