If your external audio device isn't producing any sound, follow these quick and easy steps. To update the audio driver, go to dell.com/support and identify your computer automatically or by typing in the Service Tag. Select “Drivers & Downloads,” and then click on “Select Drivers.” Choose your operating system and set the category as “Audio.” Expand the “Audio” section and check the box next to the audio driver. Click “Selected for download” next to it. Click on the audio driver to bring up the documentation page and click “Download.”
Open the file when it finishes downloading. Click “Yes” to allow the changes and then click “INSTALL.” Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. A system restart is typically required to complete the installation process. You can tick the box “Yes, I want to restart my computer now” to do it automatically, or restart it yourself later. When you are ready, click “Finish” to exit the wizard. With the new driver installed, test the sound by connecting your external audio device to see if the system audio properly switches to the appropriate output.
Dell Optimizer can help your audio device be set to “External” if not switched automatically. If not already installed, go back to the “Drivers & Downloads” page. Choose your operating system and set the category as “Application.” Expand the Application section. Check the box next to the Dell Optimizer driver and click “Selected for download” next to it. Click on the Dell Optimizer file to open the documentation page and click “Download.”
Open the file when it finishes downloading and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. With Dell Optimizer installed, open it and connect your headset or headphones to the system. An optimizer pop-up should appear with options to confirm the device just connected. Make your selection, then click “Optimize” and follow the on-screen instructions.
Once in the app, you will see all the optimization options. In this case, select “Audio” and make sure “Audio Device Pop-Up” is toggled on. When finished, close the app. If you have any questions, contact us via one of the options on our support website so we can assist you.
