Learn how to troubleshoot and resolve audio playback issues on your Dell PC. This video covers checking connections, adjusting audio settings, running troubleshooting tests, reinstalling drivers, and performing hardware scans.
Try these troubleshooting steps when you’re having audio playback issues on your Dell PC. If you’re using an external audio device such as headphones, a headset, or a speaker, make sure there is a good connection between the device and your PC. If you’re using a USB port or an audio jack, inspect the connector end on the device cable and the computer port where you’re inserting it. Both ends should be clean and free of any dust or debris.
Look for signs of misuse or physical damage, such as bent pins or tabs, obstructed holes, or broken and missing parts. For wireless devices with a USB receiver, make sure that it is the proper receiver for the device and it's plugged into a functioning port. If using Bluetooth, make sure your system’s Bluetooth is turned on and the device is paired correctly to your PC. No sound could be because a different playback device is set as the default output.
To adjust this, click on the audio speaker icon in the Windows taskbar. Click to expand the volume bar. Click on “More volume settings” to access the system sound settings. For “Choose where to play sound”, click to expand the device you want to set as default. For the “General” option, “Set as default sound device”, choose the option appropriate for you. “Use as default for audio” is for all the system’s output audio. “Use as default for communications” is for the device to be used for any communication platform.
If you’re still having issues, let’s run the Windows Audio Troubleshooter. Click on the Windows “Start” button and search for “Troubleshoot settings”. Open the result and click on “Other troubleshooters”. Next to “Audio”, click on “Run”. The Windows automated assistant will outline your issue and ask for your approval to run some tests. Click “Yes” and wait as it runs through related diagnostics. When finished, close the troubleshooter.
To reinstall the audio driver, go to Dell.com/Support and identify your computer automatically or by typing in the service tag. Click on “Drivers & Downloads”. Choose your operating system and set the “Category” as “Audio”. Expand the “Audio” section and click “Download” next to the audio driver. Open the file when it finishes downloading and follow the on-screen instructions to install the new driver. Your system may require a restart to complete the process. The new installation may have affected the default audio device setting, so make sure you review the settings as outlined in chapter two of this video.
Finally, let’s perform a hardware scan to see if your audio issue is related to a hardware problem. If you're using a laptop, make sure it stays connected to the charger during this entire process. Restart the computer. At the Dell logo screen, repeatedly tap the “F12” key to access the One-Time Boot menu. Select “DIAGNOSTICS” to prompt the On-board Diagnostics Quick Test. Note that the mouse will not function during these tests. If at any time you would like to stop the test, press the “Escape” key.
The results will be displayed on the screen when the test is finished. If you receive an error code, make note of it and contact us via one of the options on our support website. When you’re finished, click “EXIT”. If you have any questions, contact us via one of the options on our support website so we can assist you.
