It would seem that it could be easier than devices for reproducing sound, better known as speakers! It’s tricky to break them. However, on the forums the question “why the speakers on the computer do not work” is constantly being asked. This suggests that the problem exists and requires a solution. This is what we’ll talk about today, and help to find and fix malfunctions.
Since we are talking about computer speakers, we should dwell in more detail on the theoretical foundations. There are two ways to output sound: digital and analog. The first involves connecting an external hardware decoder of the digital signal to the computer via the SPDIF connector or modern HDMI. Digital data is transmitted to the decoder, and it converts them into an analog signal, subsequently going to the speakers. This method of connection provides a better and clearer sound, but it requires financial costs for the purchase of a decoder. Surprisingly, many video adapters can output sound, but to hear it just requires an external hardware converter.
The second way is classic. When using it, the work of converting a digital / analogue is entrusted to the logic built into the sound card - the same decoder, but having only basic functions. Speakers are connected to a standard 3.5 mm jack (almost all headphones come with just that).
Although these methods have much in common, nevertheless, each has its own characteristics that determine why the columns do not work. The method for determining a malfunction in systems with six or more speakers is similar to the method for stereo (two).
If one column does not work, the search for damage should begin with the simplest thing - checking the quality of the wire connection. When using an external amplifier (aka, in combination, a subwoofer), the speakers are connected to it by spring-loaded clips. Insufficiently stripped wire or poor pressing - and the sound disappears. The same applies to the digital connection, only in this case check the connections from the decoder to the speakers and from the computer to the decoder. Inexpensive desktop speakers without a subwoofer (office) can be damaged in two places: inside the wire under insulation and in the 3.5 mm plug (this is a real “sore spot”). You need to turn on the music or other constant sound and at the same time shake the wire going to the idle speaker. Often this helps. The damaged area must be cut and replaced. Trite, but sometimes the speakers do not work normally if the plug is not fully inserted into the socket. Pull it out and insert it correctly.
Sometimes there is a knob on the speakers that redirects the sound to one of them. You need to make sure that it is in a neutral position. Damage to the speaker itself or one of the amplifier channels is extremely rare, therefore the reason is usually “on the surface”.
Also, the columns do not work if there are errors in the software part. A sound card can play sound only after installing a driver for it. It can be downloaded from the Internet or installed from a disk that comes with a computer.
Owners of systems with Realtek HDA and other built-in audio codecs more often than others want to find out why the speakers do not work. The trouble is that the good idea of the developers, which allows determining the fact of connecting a playback device (Jack Detect), turned into a headache for users. If, when installing the drivers, the speakers were turned off and the connector is connected, then turning them on, you can’t hear the long-awaited sound. This is solved quite simply: with the computer turned on and the speakers (do not forget to minimize the sound), reconnect the plug to the connector. Definition and auto-tuning will work. Of course, do not confuse the connectors: the CCC system (Color Coded Connector) has long been used, when the connectors and plugs are painted in the appropriate colors, you just need to be careful when connecting and do not violate the color ratio.