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BCM20702A0 Driver Error: Fixes for Bluetooth

Guide 10-36415 · Updated · Step by step

The BCM20702A0 driver error usually appears as a yellow exclamation mark in Device Manager or a Bluetooth device that stops working, and it is most often fixed by reinstalling or updating the Broadcom Bluetooth driver. This guide covers the common causes and step-by-step fixes for Windows 10 and Windows 11.

What Is the BCM20702A0?

The BCM20702A0 is a Bluetooth 4.0 controller chip made by Broadcom. It is commonly found in laptops, desktop motherboards, and USB Bluetooth adapters. In Windows, it appears under Device Manager as “Broadcom BCM20702A0 Bluetooth 4.0” or similar. When the driver is missing, corrupted, or incompatible, the device fails to initialize, and you may see a code 10, code 43, or code 28 error.

Common Causes of the Driver Error

  • Corrupted driver files after a Windows update or a failed driver installation.
  • Outdated driver that is not compatible with the current Windows version.
  • Conflicting drivers from a previous Bluetooth adapter or a generic Microsoft driver.
  • Power management settings that turn off the Bluetooth radio to save power.
  • BIOS/UEFI settings that disable the Bluetooth module.

How to Fix the BCM20702A0 Driver Error

Try the following fixes in order. Most users resolve the issue with the first or second step.

1. Reinstall the Driver via Device Manager

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Bluetooth and right-click the Broadcom BCM20702A0 device.
  3. Select Uninstall device. If a checkbox appears for “Delete the driver software for this device,” check it.
  4. Restart your computer. Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver automatically.

If Windows does not reinstall it, go to Action > Scan for hardware changes.

2. Update the Driver Manually

  1. In Device Manager, right-click the BCM20702A0 and select Update driver.
  2. Choose Search automatically for drivers. If no newer driver is found, try Browse my computer for drivers > Let me pick from a list.
  3. Select the latest Broadcom driver from the list (if available) and click Next.

If Windows cannot find a suitable driver, download the driver from your laptop or adapter manufacturer’s support page. Search for your exact model number, not just “BCM20702A0,” because the driver package is often customized by the OEM.

3. Use the Hardware Troubleshooter

  1. Open Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  2. Run the Bluetooth troubleshooter and follow the prompts.

4. Check Power Management Settings

  1. In Device Manager, double-click the BCM20702A0 device.
  2. Go to the Power Management tab and uncheck “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.”
  3. Click OK and restart.

5. Restart the Bluetooth Service

  1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Find Bluetooth Support Service. Right-click and select Restart.
  3. If the service is set to “Manual,” change it to Automatic (right-click > Properties).

6. Check BIOS/UEFI Settings

On some laptops, the wireless or Bluetooth module can be disabled in the BIOS. Restart your computer, press the key shown on screen (often F2, Del, or F10) to enter BIOS/UEFI, and look for Wireless, Bluetooth, or Onboard Devices. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled.

If the Error Persists

If none of the above works, try these additional steps:

  • Run Windows Update to install any pending driver updates.
  • Use System Restore to revert to a point before the error appeared.
  • Check for a hardware issue: if the device is a USB adapter, try a different USB port or another computer. If it is internal, the module may be faulty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my BCM20702A0 show a Code 10 error?

Code 10 means the device cannot start. This is usually due to a corrupted driver or a conflict with another driver. Reinstalling the driver as described in step 1 often resolves it.

Can I use a generic Microsoft Bluetooth driver?

Yes, Windows includes a generic Bluetooth driver that works for basic functionality. In Device Manager, choose “Let me pick from a list” and select “Microsoft Bluetooth Enumerator” or “Microsoft Bluetooth Adapter.” However, you may lose vendor-specific features like advanced audio or low-energy support.

How do I know if my BCM20702A0 is faulty?

If the driver error persists after a clean driver reinstall and the device does not appear in Device Manager at all, the hardware may be faulty. Test the adapter on another computer if possible. For internal modules, contact the manufacturer’s support.

Will a Windows update fix the driver?

Sometimes yes. Windows Update may deliver a newer driver from the manufacturer. It is worth checking for optional updates under Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates.

Is it safe to delete the driver?

Yes, uninstalling the driver is safe. Windows will either reinstall it automatically or you can reinstall it manually. It does not affect your files or other programs.

Related

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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