Installing Surround Sound

1. Uninstall the existing audio software.

To avoid problems with your new sound hardware, you should remove your existing sound drivers and support software first. To do so, launch Control Panel's Add/Remove Programs applet, select the entry for the existing sound card software, and click Remove in XP or Add/Remove in 98 or Me. For most motherboards that have built-in sound support, the PCI Audio Driver is the essential component to remove.

Most sound card software will uninstall all files, drivers, and applications related to the sound card, but check carefully; you might need to uninstall several components from the Add/Remove Programs list.

2. Change the sound card.

It's best to disable any built-in sound support on your motherboard before you install the new card. You usually do this through the PC Setup utility (watch as your PC boots for the key to enter Setup), but on older PCs you might need to set a jumper (see your manual).

If you're installing an external sound processor and you don't need to remove an old card, just plug it into a free USB port.

Otherwise, power down your PC, unplug it from the wall, and open the case. If you're removing an old card, disconnect any cables attached to it, remove the screw holding it down, and extract the card. Insert the new card in the slot and fasten it down with the screw you removed.

3. Hook up the equipment.

Hook up all the internal and external cables to your new sound hardware, as well as the external peripherals such as speakers. Every sound card and sound processor has a different configuration, so check the installation chart or manual to make sure that you connect it all correctly. And then double-check your work.

4. Install the software.

If you installed a new card, replace the cover on your PC, plug it into the wall, and power it up. Windows should automatically detect the new sound hardware and ask for the driver software, which is usually included on a CD-ROM. For details on installing the drivers, refer to the instructions that came with your sound hardware.

Once you're done, you'll usually need to restart your PC. If you don't hear anything from the speakers, turn them off and recheck your connections. Many surround speaker sets have multiple inputs, so make sure the correct one is selected.

If your computer doesn't detect a sound card or you still don't hear anything from your speakers, power down your system, recheck all your connections, and make sure the card is seated firmly in its slot. If it still doesn't work when you power up your PC again, it's time to pick up your phone and call tech support.