roomba 694 won't go back to its dock, it just bumps into it and then gives up and stops.

Diagnosis

The Roomba 694 relies on a specific "handshake" of infrared (IR) signals to locate and align itself with the Home Base. When the robot bumps into the dock without docking, it means the Roomba can physically detect an obstacle, but it cannot "see" the IR beacon emanating from the dock. This is typically caused by signal interference or a complete lack of visibility. The robot uses a triangulation method; if the signal is blocked, refracted, or obscured, the robot will wander blindly until it makes physical contact, at which point it fails to trigger the final docking sequence and shuts down in frustration. This failure often occurs because of "infrared noise." Highly reflective surfaces—such as floor-length mirrors, stainless steel appliances, or high-gloss black tiles—can bounce the IR signal in the wrong direction, tricking the robot into thinking the dock is elsewhere. Additionally, a buildup of fine dust or pet hair over the IR receiver windows on the front bumper creates a physical veil that prevents the robot from registering the Home Base's signal, even if the dock is only inches away.

How to Fix It

Follow these precise steps to restore the docking communication:

1. Clear the Perimeter: Move the Home Base to a hard, flat surface. Ensure there is a minimum of 40 inches (approx. 3.3 feet) of clear, unobstructed floor space in front of the dock and at least 18 inches of clear space on either side. Remove any rugs or mats that may cause the robot to tilt or struggle to climb onto the charging contacts.
2. Eliminate Signal Interference: Move the dock away from mirrors, glass doors, or polished metal surfaces. If the dock is tucked into a corner, ensure it is not pressed directly against a dark-colored wall, as dark surfaces absorb IR signals rather than reflecting them, which can "blind" the robot.
3. Clean the Robot's "Eyes": Locate the two circular IR receiver windows on the front bumper. Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth or a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol to gently wipe these windows. Do not use abrasive scrubbers or window cleaner, as these can scratch the plastic and permanently distort the signal.
4. Clean the Base Beacon: Wipe the plastic window on the front of the Home Base. Even a thin layer of dust on the dock's emitter can reduce the signal strength enough to prevent the robot from locking on.
5. Verify Contact Points: Use a dry cloth to wipe the two silver charging contacts on the bottom of the Roomba and the two spring-loaded pins on the Home Base. If these are oxidized or dirty, the robot may "hit" the dock but fail to register the electrical connection, causing it to give up.

If That Didn't Work

• Perform a Hard Power Reset: Press and hold the CLEAN button for 20 seconds. The light ring will flash. This clears the temporary cache and forces the robot to re-index its internal map and sensor calibrations, which often resolves software glitches preventing the docking sequence.
• Test the Power Source: Ensure the Home Base is plugged directly into a wall outlet rather than a surge protector or extension cord. Inconsistent voltage can cause the IR beacon to flicker or weaken, making it invisible to the robot from a distance.
• Check for "Cliff Sensor" False Positives: If you have dark-colored flooring or black rugs near the dock, the robot may perceive the floor as a cliff. This triggers a safety override that prevents the robot from moving forward into the dock. Test this by placing the robot on a light-colored surface and manually directing it toward the dock.
• Inspect for Bumper Obstructions: Gently tap the front bumper to ensure it springs back instantly. If the bumper is stuck in a "depressed" position due to debris or a bent internal spring, the robot will think it is permanently colliding with an object and will refuse to execute the final docking maneuver.

Heads Up

• Avoid placing the Home Base behind curtains or furniture "skirts"; any fabric covering the base will completely block the IR signal.
• Never use chemical solvents or bleach on the IR windows, as this can cloud the plastic and render the sensors useless.
• If you move your Home Base to a new room, always start the robot from the dock to allow it to calibrate its new starting position.
• Periodically check the charging pins on the base to ensure they are springy and not stuck in a recessed position.