Lost XP System sounds

[zebratech]

Lost all OS system sounds - windows startup, exit, error, etc., ... but...
I can play audio CD's, play the system sounds manually through Media player. All of the configs seem right except I've noticed that the sound "test" button in the start>control panel>Sound and Audio Devices>Properties>sounds tab, section is greyed out.
Up to date on all patches and updates. Ran spyware scans and virus checks.
Any Ideas?

PC is 6 months old:
Dell Optiplex 160L, 2.2 ghz Celeron, 400 FSB, 128k cache, 256MB Ram non-ECC, 333 mhz DDR, 80 GB EIDE, Win XP PRO SP1 with all patches up to date, NTFS, Integrated Soundblaster Compatible AC97 sound.
Thanks!

 

[zebratech]

PS.
No device conflicts listed either.
Thanks!

 

[bcastner]

I am lousy at these issues, but a recent thread suggestion by member IslandCustom struck me as a first crack at the issue:

You should of course use Google or the CD if included with the sound board to install any drivers needed. These are very specific drivers for each sound device.

Then:

http://www.annoyances.org/exec/forum/winxp/t1066427444

 

[zebratech]

Thanks bcastner. I gave it a shot but no good. It was running find a very short time ago, but the user doesn't remember exactly when the problem started. I'm starting to think it might be from an IE update. Looking into it.

Anybody else come across this?

Again, thanks bcastner for the prompt response.

 

[micker377]

Can you go to the audio drivers in device manager and try "rollback"? I know my sound drivers (AC97 K7VTA3 Mobo) were wiped out twice until I learned NOT to install the MS upgraded drivers. Re-install the drivers from the Mobo disk.

 

[linney]

Any help here?

262256 - No Sound Events Are Played

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;262256&FR=1&PA=1&SD=HSCH

Lost Your Ding?

http://www.langa.com/newsletters/2002/2002-10-31.htm

Sound Problem..
thread779-384988

 

[zebratech]

OK,
Looked up the link and checked the registry entries for HKCU root entries (the right one is there), and HKCU: AppEvents\schemes\Apps\default\default\default. (This entry is present, correct also). I'm going to try Micker377's tip to rollback the driver next, let you all know how it goes.
Thanks for the feedback and a belated Happy Holidays to all.

 

[linney]

Along "Micker377's" you also have System Restore to try and then the System File Checker program from the Run Box by typing.....Sfc /Scannow in it and have your XP CD handy.

Try Safe Mode (Do you have this problem in Safe Mode?).
If you have Event Sounds in Safe Mode, try this.

HOW TO: Verify Unsigned Device Drivers in Windows XP

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q308/5/14.asp