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How to update your audio drivers on Windows 10

Regain control of your microphone with these helpful tips.

If you're encountering problems with your microphone on Windows 10, please attempt the following steps:

  1. Restart your device.

  2. Try selecting a different audio device from the drop-down menu.

  3. To ensure optimal performance and troubleshoot microphone-related issues, it is essential to update or reinstall your audio drivers. 


Outdated drivers can lead to problems with recording and sound playback. Follow the steps below to update your drivers and download new ones if necessary, based on your device brand. If you are using a specialized microphone, it is important to obtain the drivers specifically designed for your device. By doing so, you can address any compatibility issues and enhance your microphone's functionality.


Here's a guide to uninstalling and reinstalling your microphone drivers:

  1. Open the Device Manager on your Windows 10 device.

  2. Locate and click on "Audio inputs and outputs" in the Device Manager.

  3. Right-click on the name of your audio source and choose the option "Uninstall Device."

  4. Follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation process.

    Once it has been removed, right-click on "Audio inputs and outputs" and choose "Scan for hardware change." This action should reinstall your inbuilt drivers.

    If your audio driver doesn't reinstall, please follow the device-specific steps provided below.
        


    Alternatively, you can also choose the option to "Update Driver." 

    Here's how to download updated drivers based on your device brand:

DELL

Scan your computer for existing drivers and utilities and follow the provided instructions.

1. Browse to the Dell Drivers & Downloads page.

    * Identify your Dell computer using one of the following methods:

    * Click "Detect PC" and follow the instructions.

    * Click "Browse all products" to select your Dell product from the catalog.

2. Click "Detect Drivers."

3. Support Assist will analyze your computer to find the latest updates.

4. Once the scan is complete, click "Download and Install."

5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the driver and utility installation.


HP
In Windows, search for and open "HP Support Assistant."
01. On the "My Devices" tab, find your computer and click "Updates."
02. Click "Check for updates and messages" to get the latest updates.
03. Wait while Support Assistant works.
04. If new updates are available, click the checkbox next to each update, and then click "Download and install."
05. Once HP Support Assistant finishes, close the tool.

ACER
To update your drivers effectively, utilize the Acer Care Center software. If you can't find the software on your computer or it has been uninstalled, don't worry. You can easily download it from our support site. Simply search your computer for the Acer Care Center software and follow the prompts to install it. Once installed, you'll be able to use the Acer Care Center to update your drivers seamlessly.
01. Visit the Acer Drivers and Manuals page.
02. Enter your Serial Number/SNID or search for your product by Model.
03. Select "Application."
04. Click "Download" next to Acer Care Center to save the file.
05. Unzip the downloaded file and run the Setup.exe file to install the application.

Here are two additional steps you can take to troubleshoot microphone-related issues on Windows 10 devices:

To identify and address potential microphone-related problems, follow these steps:


  • Open your Settings and select "Troubleshoot" from the list.

  • Choose "Recording Audio" from the available options.

  • Click on the "Run the troubleshooter" button and carefully follow the provided instructions.

  • Additionally, refer to the troubleshooting steps outlined here, as they can assist in identifying and resolving the issue at hand.

Ensure that your microphone is enabled in your settings by following these steps:

  • Open the Settings menu on your device.

  • Locate and click on "Privacy."

  • Within the Privacy settings, make sure to grant permission to use your camera if necessary.

  • Look for the option "Let apps use my microphone" and ensure that the toggle switch is in the on position.


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