You need a sound card and drivers to output to your computer's speakers. Windows XP has plug-n-play capabilities, so it only takes a few minutes to install your sound card. Adding sound to your computer improves your experience with games and alerts such as when you receive email. Windows XP has several sound manufacturer drivers installed, so the system detects and automatically installs the drivers.
Instructions
1. Power off your computer and unplug the power cable. Remove the screws on the case cover. Keep the screws in a safe place, so you don't lose them. Slide the cover off of your computer, so you can see the motherboard slots.
2. Insert the sound card in your motherboard expansion slot. Motherboard slots for sound expansion cards are labeled in white. Make sure the sound card is inserted securely. If the card is not inserted fully into the slot, the card may not function properly.
3. Replace the case cover and the screws. After the case is reassembled, power on the computer and boot to Windows. Log in at the Windows login screen. Windows detects the new sound card and displays a window to prompt you for the drivers. Insert the manufacturer's driver CD in your drive.
4. Click the "Browse" button when you are prompted for the drive disc. Select your CD-ROM drive in the list of drivers and click "OK." Click "Next." Windows detects the right drivers for your sound card and installs the files.
5. Connect your speakers to the output connector on the sound card you installed. Make sure the speakers are turned on. You can now hear sound when you play a game or work with software that provides sound feedback.
Tags: sound card, your computer, card inserted, case cover, Make sure