[Christopher]

I am working on fixing a computer where the sound does not work. Windows said that it could not start the sound device that is built into the motherboard. So I tried using a new soundcard. But, that doesn't work either. Windows still says that there isn't a sound device installed. The device manager shows it as working. Any suggestions on what I should do? Thanks!

[Zenax]

I have built in audio on my motherboard, and everytime I re-install windows I have to install a cd driver for the audio, so perhaps replacing the audio drivers on the computer might work.

Normally, what I do when trying to problem solve is the following two questions:

Has it worked before?

and

What has changed since it stopped working?

Normally answering these two questions gives you some sort of direction in which to look.

If not, the motherboard might have to be replaced, or a re-vamp of windows might suddenly jolt it back into life, as new drivers etc would be loaded.

Post back with any more info if you have it.

[Sharky]

Is the Windows Audio service running?

[Check by doing: Start > Run... > services.msc]

[GamingX]

You should perhaps check if the sound drivers are working right. You have to install the drivers from the motherboard cd.

[coolv1994]

try buying a new one i reccommend sound blaster

[fireput]

are the speakers working ?

[swirly]

I have this same problem. I couldnt get it working on the motherboard. I installed all the drivers. So I decided to try a soundcard, but to no avail. I installed the the drivers and everything. I asked my teacher, he said to make sure and change the bios settings. I did but still to no avail. I made sure the speakers worked by checking them in another computer. I dont know whats wrong. So I would appreciate any help you guys can give.

[Christopher]

The audio service is running.
The driver is the right one. I tried reinstalling it, and the problem still hasn't gone away. I'll try reinstalling Windows sometime today and see what happens. Before I do that though I'll check if a linux live cd works.

[animerth]

It is hardware problem
chack to make sure wiring is good and card is in slot

[Sharky]

Is there a audiosrv.dll in \Windows\System32\ ? Apparently, some have had success by copying this file from the Windows CD.

And, any luck with the Linux Live CD ?