PROBLEMS with sound can make using your computer less enjoyable, and even less productive. Very often, problems with the sound are easily solved by following these simple steps.

　　Step 1: Is the power on?

　　If your speakers use a separate power source, make sure they are plugged in and the light on the speakers is on. If you are unable to turn them on, the power source may be bad. Try another one or check the output with an electrical meter. Push in all the audio leads (plugs), too.

　　Step 2: Is volume set high enough?

　　Check that the volume setting on the speakers is high enough. Open the Windows volume control by choosing “Start,” then “Programs,” then “Accessories” and select “Volume Control” from the “Entertainment” menu. Make certain the volume controls are set high enough. Uncheck all the “Mute” boxes (the red circle denotes these). Leave the “Volume Control” open for now.

　　Step 3: Check volume settings

　　Before you close the “Volume Control,” open the “Options” menu and choose “Properties.” Check to see that you are displaying the needed volume control. If you did not see it when you checked these, check the appropriate box in the menu at bottom of display and recheck all controls before closing.

　　Step 4: See sound file associations

　　Open the “My Computer” icon on your desktop. Pull down the “View” menu and choose “Folder Options,” then “File Types.” Make sure that the type of file you wish to play (e.g. “Audio CD”) is associated with the appropriate player (the one you are attempting to use). This is particularly important if you have recently added or uninstalled audio software.

　　Step 5: Correct file associations

　　If, for instance, it is revealed that your “Audio CD” files are associated with Real Player and you are attempting using the Windows CD Player, you can choose the “Edit” button and going through the indicated steps to make the association with the file entitled “C:\Windows\cdplayer.exe. Don’t be afraid to browse or use “Find” on the “Start” menu to locate the proper file.

　　Step 6: Does it work now?

　　Try using the player again. If it still fails to work, the problem is likely either the physical hardware or the software operating it.

　　(SD-Agencies)