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Fixing Simple Sound Problems

Overview

Sound on your computer stop working? 99 times out of 100 it's due to a simple problem: a loose audio cable, no power to the speakers, or some software setting in Windows® is not correct. Before we come out for a service call, here is a five minute procedure to rule out a simple problem.

Step By Step Procedure

Step 1: Verify Cables Are Securely Connected. Plug the speakers into the green front line out jack on the back of the computer. Rotate the plug about one quarter turn left, then right. Make sure the plug is seated firmly. Verify power to the speakers is on and the volume control is at 9:00 or higher.

Figure 1: Sound Card Showing Green Front Line Out Jack

Step 2: Open the Volume Control. Double click on the volume icon near the clock as shown below.

Figure 2: Speaker Icon in Tray Near Clock

Tip: Don't see the volume icon? In the Control Panel, find Sounds and Audio Device Properties. Under the Volume tab, clear the Mute check box. Also check Place volume icon in the taskbar. Click Apply, then OK, and finally double click on this icon.

Figure 3: Sounds and Audio Device Properties Screen

Step 3: Verify Mutes Are Clear. On the Volume Control screen, make sure all the Mute check boxes are clear.

Figure 4: Volume Control Showing Mute Check Boxes

Step 4: Open CD Hardware Properties. Open the Device Manager by first right clicking on My Computer and selecting Properties. Then click on the Hardware tab. Click the Device Manager button. Finally, click the plus sign (+) next to DVD/CD-ROM drives.

Figure 5: Device Manager With All CD Drives Visible

Step 5: Verify Digital Audio Settings. For each CD or DVD drive installed, right click on its icon and select Properties. Then click on the Properties tab. Verify the CD Player Volume is set to high and the Enable digital CD audio for this CD-ROM device is checked.

Figure 6: Sample CD Properties Screen at the Properties Tab

Sound Still Not Working?

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