How to Install Sound & Video Device Drivers

You can download and install drivers for your sound or video devices.

Sound and video devices require the user to install model-specific drivers for the device to work properly. Most sound and video cards come with a CD that includes driver installation software. Some newer operating systems may also be able to detect sound and video devices and install the drivers automatically. However, if neither of these methods work, you can also download and install the drivers from the device manufacturer.

Instructions

Find Device Model Information

1. Click the "Start" button to launch the Start menu.

2. Right-click "Computer" from the Start menu and choose "Properties."

3. Navigate to the "Hardware" tab if you are using Windows XP and click "Device Manger." Windows Vista and 7 users only need to click "Device Manager."

4. Locate the sound or video device from the list of hardware components in the Device Manager. Sound devices are usually located under a "Sound" header while video devices are usually located under "Display Adapters."

5. Record the information about your sound and video device from its listing in the Device Manager. This usually gives you the make and model of the device, which you will need to download the proper drivers.

Download and Install Drivers

1. Go to the manufacturer's website to download the drivers for your device. Use the device's information from the Device Manager to ensure you download the correct version of the drivers.

2. Locate the downloaded file on your computer. If it is an ".exe" file, you should be able to double-click the icon to launch the installation wizard. However, if the drivers downloaded in a folder or as a non-executable file, you will need to install the drivers through the Device Manager.

3. Repeat the steps in the previous section to open the Device Manager.

4. Double-click the device name in the Device Manager list. This will launch a new window.

5. Click the "Driver" tab and choose "Update Driver." This will launch the driver installation wizard.

6. Select "Install from a list or specific location" if you are using Windows XP. Windows Vista and 7 users will need to choose "Browse my computer for driver software."

7. Choose "Search for the best driver in these locations" if you are using Windows XP and place a mark in the box next to "Include this location in the search."

8. Browse your files for the driver that you downloaded and double-click the file to choose it.

9. Click "Next" to allow the wizard to install the driver for your sound or video device.

References

• Microsoft Support: How to Manage Devices in Windows XP