Sound+problems

Sound problems []

INTRODUCTION This article describes how to use the Sound Troubleshooter that is included in Windows XP Help and Support Center. This article describes types of problems that the Sound Troubleshooter can help you resolve. It also includes instructions for how to start and use the troubleshooter and provides additional troubleshooting resources that you can find on the Microsoft Product Support Services Web site. Back to the top MORE INFORMATION The Sound Troubleshooter includes step-by-step instructions to troubleshoot the following sound problems in Windows XP: • You do not hear sound from your computer's speakers or headphones. • A sound seems to be played, but you do not hear anything. • A sound is played, but then stops suddenly. • The sound skips or misses in some areas. • The sound is distorted or scratchy. • The computer stops responding (hangs) when a sound is played. • The computer restarts when a sound is played. • You receive an error message when you try to play sound. For example, you may receive any one of the following error messages: • MIDI output error detected. • No wave device that can play files in the current format is installed. • The CD Audio device is in use by another application. • WAV sound playback error detected. • Your audio hardware cannot play files like the current file.

Back to the top Starting the Sound Troubleshooter If you are already familiar with Windows XP Help and Support Center, click the following link to start the Sound Troubleshooter: Sound Troubleshooter If you are not yet familiar with Windows XP Help and Support Center, we recommend that you start the Sound Troubleshooter by using the following procedure. This procedure will help you become familiar with this Windows XP Help and Support Center. 1. Click Start, and then click Help and Support. 2. Under Pick a Help Topic, click Fixing a problem. 3. In the left pane, click Games, sound, and video problems. 4. In the right pane, click Sound Troubleshooter. Back to the top Using the Sound Troubleshooter 1. Click the option that describes the problem that is occurring, and then click Next. 2. Repeat step 1 until your problem is resolved or until you have reached the end of the troubleshooting path.

Note that you can click Back at any time to repeat the last step or click Start Over to start the Sound Troubleshooter again.  