Microsoft users may have issues with their audio or AC'97 errors in Device Manager, because their motherboards have on-board audio (often with
VIA,
Realtek, or
C-Media chipsets) .
Often this is caused because the operating system has been reinstalled and the
motherboard chipset drivers are not installed. To resolve this issue try following the below steps.
Let Windows redetect drivers
Open Device Manager and remove all devices under
Sound, video and game controllers and any
Other devices. Once removed reboot the computer and let Microsoft Windows re-detect the audio drivers.
Motherboard chipset drivers
Reinstalling the motherboard chipset drivers will usually resolve this issue. If your computer came with a Motherboard CD, install the chipset drivers from the CD and the
sound drivers if also available on the CD.
Some popular Motherboard chipset company:
Sound card drivers
If after installing the motherboard chipset drivers you continue to have issues install the sound drivers. We suggest you download the sound drivers from the computer manufacturer or
motherboard manufacturer.
Some popular sound card drivers:
Check the sound card
If after following the above steps try going through our sound card troubleshooting document CH000208. To make sure another sound related issue is not causing your issues.