HD Audio Drivers

HD audio drivers are a newer type of software driver, designed to increase the output and quality of computer audio. Older audio drivers such as the AC’97 drivers used by Intel for example, only put out 96kHz/20bit in dual (2 stereo speakers) and 48kHz/20bit in multichannel with up to 5 speakers. The new HD audio drivers have an output of 192kHz/32bit in dual, and 96kHz/32bit in multichannel with up to 8 speakers. This allows for much crisper sound with less white noise and more power. It can also create a more realistic surround sound environment because of the 3 extra speakers.

Audio drivers function as the messenger between the computers operating system and the audio device they are associated with. As the operating system sends instructions and specifics to the speakers, microphone, etc. the drivers translate and interpret those messages. Some devices that use HD Audio Drivers are speakers, microphones, headsets, and sound cards.
Being such an important part of the audio system, problems are bound to arise. Common audio driver problems include deteriorating sound quality, a device stops working, or you may be unable to adjust your volume. Sometimes you may get a very specific error message that can normally be taken to the manufacturer for specific explanations and steps to resolve the issue.

Often a simple driver update is all that is needed to correct the issue, and regular driver updates for your system can help prevent encountering problems altogether. To update your drivers with the best solution for your system you can contact the manufacturer for updated drivers. Manufacturers are constantly releasing new and updated drivers that allow for increased functionality, more reliable performance, or “bug fixes” for known technical issues. If you visit your hardware manufacturers website you can usually find a link to download specific drivers for your system.

Another way to update your drivers in windows is to use device manager. Open device manager, either through your start menu or control panel. Select the audio hardware that you want to update the drivers for under the “Sound, Video, and Game Controllers” heading. Right-click on it and choose “Properties”. Select the “Driver” tab, and click “Update Drivers”. Your computer will now update with the most up to date drivers that are available in windows.

These simple steps are all it normally takes to resolve most HD audio driver issues. Sometimes there are other problems that can arise, problems such as incompatible drivers, and conflicting drivers. These are caused by two drivers who’s protocols don’t fit together. The only solution is to replace one or the other until compatible or non-conflicting drivers are found. This is one reason that you should always stick with manufacturers drivers.

Sometimes, with newer hardware, the drivers can have bugs. Bugs in the drivers will need to be resolved by the manufacturer updating and improving the drivers. This can be a slow process, but most manufacturers are very responsible with their driver updates.