My OptiPlex 7020 Microphone Won't Work

First, what is your OS?  It's different for Win10 & 11.

@bradthetechnut​ Hi, it's a windows 10

Right click on the speaker icon in taskbar and click Sound.  Click recording tab > Double-click microphone icon > another window opens > Listen tab > check box for Listen to this device.

As for audio output not working, I don't have a direct answer other than to experiment with the 2 windows I just gave.  Also go into Windows Settings > System > Sound and see what you can do there.  Double-check volumes by right clicking speaker icon in taskbar and clicking on Open volume mixer.

I don't know if it always does, but something Win10 should do is when it detects an input device connected, it should ask in a pop-up if it's line-in or a microphone.

Some users have gotten their audio to work by downloading Waves MaxxAudio Pro, though I'm not sure what they did once they got there even though I have it.  It may not be suitable for a 7020 SFF though.  It might be 1 or 2 years too old.  If it is suitable, it'll be in Optional Updates in Windows Settings, or you'll be able to download it separate from the Dell site after Googling it.

If still no luck, make sure antivirus software isn't blocking anything necessary.

Make sure all connections are tight with plugs inserted all the way and the wires are good quality.  If you can, test microphone in another device.

I buy either BlueRigger or Amazon Basics* audio wires.  *Better than one would think, high quality.  Cheap, no-name, or generic wires did nothing for me.

@bradthetechnut​
Hi! I did the things you said but it still doesn't work, and Waves MaxxAudio Pro is incompatible with my desktop. The desktop does seem to detect when a microphone is plugged in though, but no pop-up.

Any other suggestions? And how do I know if an antivirus software is blocking anything?

@bradthetechnut
At around the middle notch of the mic's jack when its plugged in, it makes a static noise. Does that mean anything

In my 2nd reply, I meant to say "Right click speaker icon in taskbar..."  But it looks like you figured it out.

To the best of my memory, Settings > Update & Security > Virus & threat protection.  Browse the window to see if it has a list of blocking anything.  I am kind of doubtful this is it, but something to may be look at when other avenues aren't working.

As for the static thing you mention during connection - normal.  It also may mean the jack is working, but the microphone isn't.  Did you try both input jacks?

Depending on their quality, microphones do die on occasion.  Check the mic switch; does it work in another device?

On update and security, there doesn't seem to be any list.

I've also tried both input jacks: when it's plugged in the right one, it allows sound through the headphones and the left jack is supposed to be for the mic but no audio comes from it. I also tried the mic on another device and it works.

Sometimes, the issue could be an incorrect connection.  Are you using a microphone with 2 rings connector plug?  Or, are you using a headset with both headphones and mic with 3 rings connector plug? 

If it's a separate microphone with 2 rings plug, did you connect it to microphone connector #3 on front, or #14 on back.  See system views below.

@Chino de Oro 

So, I've been using my headset for the sound, and then I've been trying to use one of those wired mics + earbuds for the mic. But neither of the mics work and both are 3 ringed connectors. I've tried plugging them into the #3 hole and #14 hole, and both don't work

Ahhh, okay thank you so much! I'll be sure to order one

But that's soo confusing. So the mic jack only accepts 2 ringed plugs? Because the 3 rings work fine for the sound/headphones

Technically speaking, the rings separate the electrical signals circuits for stereo plugs.  Left, right, and common ground.  So, 2 rings (TRS) or 3 rings (TRRS) connectors would have to match up with PC intended connectors.

On Dell systems with universal audio input jack, it can accept either types with internal switch, controlled by input selections.  Once selected, audio signals will be routed to proper input/output of the devices.

On Dell systems with dedicated input/output jacks, simply use the appropriate connector it was assigned to.  In your case, microphone to microphone, headphones to headphones. 

Many headsets came with adapter, splitter.  Check yours before placing the order.

Another idea is to use a USB Bluetooth headset.  Entirely up to you.  Not sure if you game or not.

@bradthetechnut​ I'm currrently faced with the same issue. It is happening on multiple Dell Optiplex 7020 computers. We are using usb headset, and just like what is described above nothing seems to work. 

@Vagrees​ Found a solution, windows blocked the apps from using the mic. 

I Just went to settings and allowed apps to use the Mic.

So you click on Start --> Settings --> Mic  --> Switch On Allow Apps to access mic.