Only one sound channel and 2 sound cards tested

tobster911

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Feb 11, 2012
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Hello,
Currently have a client computer in our repair shop with a sound output issue. Initially, the PC only had the motherboard sound chip, and although the computer still reckoned that worked, the evidence suggested otherwise. As a result, we went online, bought a new sound card (el cheapo, but good reviews) and fitted it. There was only one channel of sound, so we thought the card was faulty. We then tested another card (taken from a disused PC) and installed all drivers etc. Again, exactly the same issue, though when you partially insert the plug, the channel that wasn't working starts working, and the one that was working stops working. I'm at my wits end and can't for the life of me figure this one out.

Thank you
 

americanbrian

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hmm, that actually happens on my work PC. It seems to be just a poor fitting plug. As you said, the channel can be heard when you position the plug properly.

Are you using headphones with a mic like they have for mobile phones? These are the ones that give me problems.
 

americanbrian

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well, you say yourself that the channel can be heard if you fiddle the position of the 3.5mm jack. This indicates that the channel IS working/being output.

It seems to me to be a mechanical issue, try PC speakers please if you have some laying around.
 

tobster911

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Feb 11, 2012
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OK, just tried really wiggling and in a nanometer perfect position, both speakers work. I think the sound card connection is buggered rather than the jack. Just seems silly that it's exactly the same story on two different sound cards