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In some cases, this information can be located by clicking on Start, Settings, Control Panel, System. That may be helpful (but not always) before Windows is erased or damaged. The drivers may still be available on the manufacturer's website. In some cases, it helps to just type www before the name and com afterwards. In other cases, you might have to try a search engine. If you can't find the manufacturer's website, then you might try Zdnet.com for drivers.

Some people felt that the sound driver was defective, and replaced it. This can be a bit risky, but if the computer sound is not working, and you've tried other alternatives, then you have little to lose. Be sure that you have the sound driver before trying this procedure.

Click Start, Settings, Control Panel, System or else click Windows Key and Pause simultaneously (bet you didn't know that one!). Find and delete the sound card driver and its related components. After restarting the computer, you will receive a message that Windows is trying to install a new driver. Your Windows disk may be helpful at this point. However, be aware that Windows sometimes makes mistakes when installing drivers.

Can't identify your driver? Try to use Creative Sound Blaster 16, which seems to work with a number of sound cards.

Need more help? Go back to the computer store or the website where you bought the computer. Ask for another copy of the sound driver. Stores and brand name websites do not always have older drivers in stock, however, so be prepared for a possible disappointment.

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