Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
If you can't start your computer after installing a new sound card and its drivers, you can
use the Windows “bootlog” feature to record every event during startup; this file records
which hardware drivers are loaded during startup and indicates whether the file loaded
successfully, didn't load successfully, or froze the computer. See the documentation for
your version of Windows for details on how to create a bootlog when necessary.
Advanced Features
If you are having problems playing DVD audio, playing MP3 files, or using SPDIF con-
nections, make sure of the following:
• You have enabled the hardware resources on the sound card.
• You are using the correct playback program.
• Your mixer has the correct volume control setting for the device.
• You have enabled digital playback (if you are using coaxial or optical SPDIF output).
• Your cabling is correct for the device.
Other Problems
A good way to solve problems of all types with PnP cards and integrated hardware, a PnP
BIOS, and Windows is to use the Device Manager to remove the sound card or integrated
audio, restart the system, and allow the card's components to be redetected. This installs a
“fresh” copy of the software and reinserts Registry entries.
If reinstalling the current driver with this method doesn't improve your results, download
and install updated drivers for your sound card or integrated audio.
Speakers
Successful business presentations, multimedia applications, and MIDI work demand ex-
ternal high-fidelity stereo or surround speakers. Although you can use standard stereo
speakers,theyareoftentoobigtofitonornearyourdesk.Smallerbookshelfspeakersare
better.
Sound cards offer little or none of the amplification needed to drive external speakers.
MakesureyouusespeakersmadeforPCs,orconnectyoursoundcardorintegratedaudio
to a home theater system's amplifier, which can provide the power needed to run standard
speakers.
Caution
Although most computer speakers are magnetically shielded, do not leave recorded tapes,
watches, credit cards, or floppy disks in front of the speakers for long periods of time.
