Reference number: CH000503

How to determine what type of sound card I have?

Question:

How do I determine what type of sound card I have?

Answer:

Users running Microsoft Windows 98, 2000, or XP

Microsoft Windows users can easily determine the type of sound card currently installed in their computer by following the below steps.

1. Click the Start Button and then click the "Programs" folder.
2. Next, click the "Accessories" and then the "System Information" folder.
3. Within the "System Information" window, click the "+" symbol next to "Components".
4. Click "Sound Device" (or "Multimedia" and then "Sound Device") and in the right-side of the window you should be able to locate complete information about the sound card.

Note: In some cases Microsoft Windows may install a compatible device to your sound card. Therefore, the sound card listed may not be the exact manufacturer and/or model installed in your computer.

Other methods of determining the type of sound card

1. Another method of determining the sound card manufacturer or model is by opening the computer and physically looking at the sound card. Commonly the sound card manufacturer and model will be listed on the card.
2. If you are unable to locate a manufacturer or model number of the sound card, but are able to locate a FCC identification number, it is recommended that you perform a FCC search using that number. Additional information about FCC numbers and how to search for information about a FCC number can be found on our FCC dictionary definition page. 

Reasoning:

Product listing or specifications

If you are trying to list all the specific information about your computer sound card, specifying the manufacturer, type, and model of the sound card is sufficient. For example:

PCI Creative sound card

Drivers or installation

A listing of computer sound card drivers can be found on our sound drivers page.

Additional information about installing a sound card can be found on document CH000419.

Replacement or repair

If you are trying to determine the type of sound card because it needs to be repaired, we recommend that you simply replace the sound card with a new sound card.

Additional buying tips on buying a computer sound card can be found here.