“Hello? Hello? Can you hear me?” has become common greeting when people join online meetings. Troubleshooting computer sound issues rely on three computer processes to make sure you are heard loud and clear: The physical device, the operating system, and the software setting. But a fourth process for troubleshooting is to plan ahead. Take advantage of getting online before the meeting starts and running the software provided tests to make sure you are ready to go.
1.) Check the Physical Device
Speakers, headsets, and microphones typically have switches for various functions. We recommend checking these five functions first:
- Powered On
- Charged Battery (headset)
- Headset dongle is connected and lit. Look for green or blue lights
- Volume Up
- Some headsets have an additional switch or button that needs to be checked to enable the microphone
2.) Check the Operating System Sound Setting (Windows, Mac OS, etc.)
- Confirm that the setting in the operating system is using your output of choice for example, your headset versus your computer sound system.
- Confirm the audio is not muted
See below articles for specific “how to” information:
Audio Device Settings (Windows)
Check Speaker Settings (Windows)
Change the sound output settings on Mac
Change the sound input settings on Mac
3.) Software Settings (MS Teams, WebEx, Zoom, etc.)
- Confirm that the setting in the software are using your output of choice. For example, your headset versus your computer sound system.
- Confirm the audio is not muted (often participants entering an online meeting will be muted upon entry).
See below articles for specific “how to” information:
MS TEAMS
Manage audio settings in a Teams meeting
WEBEX
Webex – Connect to Audio and Video in Cisco Webex Meetings
ZOOM
Zoom – Testing computer or device audio
(Created 12/9/2022)