How to Fix Realtek High Definition Audio Not Plugged In
The "Not Plugged In" message with the Realtek High Definition Audio driver can disrupt audio device function. This article offers solutions to fix the issue and restore normal audio.
1. Check Audio Device Connections
Ensure that your audio devices (such as headphones, speakers, or microphones) are properly connected to the audio ports on your computer.
For headphones and speakers, verify that they are plugged into the correct audio jack (the green jack is usually for audio output).
If using a USB audio device, ensure it is connected to a functioning USB port.
Open "Control Panel", select "Hardware and Sound", and then click "Sound".
In the "Playback" tab, ensure that the correct audio device is selected and set as the default device. If not, right-click the desired device and select "Set as Default Device".
Right-click the device and select "Test" to check if it is working properly.
2. Update Audio Drivers
Outdated or corrupted drivers are a common cause of audio issues. Updating your audio drivers can effectively resolve the "Realtek High Definition Audio Not Plugged In" error. We recommend using Driver Sentry to automatically detect and update drivers, saving time and avoiding incorrect driver installations.
Download the latest version of Driver Sentry, install it, and open the software. Click "Scan".
Once the scan is complete, a list of drivers that need installation or updates will be displayed. Find the audio driver in the list and click "Upgrade".
After updating, restart your computer to ensure the updated driver works properly.
3. Re-enable Realtek Audio Device
Press Win + X and select "Device Manager".
In the Device Manager, expand "Sound, Video, and Game Controllers", and look for Realtek High Definition Audio or a similar device.
If there is a down arrow next to the device, it indicates that the device is disabled. Right-click the device and select "Enable Device".
After enabling the device, restart your computer and check if the audio is working properly.
4. Use Generic Audio Drivers
Press Win + X and select "Device Manager".
Expand "Sound, Video, and Game Controllers", right-click Realtek High Definition Audio or another audio device, and select "Update Driver".
Select "Browse my computer for drivers".
Click "Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer".
Choose "High Definition Audio Device" (not a Realtek-specific driver), then click "Next".
A warning message may appear; click "Yes" to proceed. The driver will then install successfully.
After installation, restart your computer and check if the audio device is functioning.
5. Run Windows Troubleshooter
Press Win + I to open Settings.
Select "Update & Security", then click "Troubleshoot > Additional Troubleshooters".
Find "Playing Audio" in the list and click "Run the Troubleshooter".
Windows will automatically detect audio issues and provide suggested fixes. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Once the process is complete, check if the audio device is working correctly.
6. Disable Front Panel Jack Detection
Search for "Control Panel" in the search bar and open it.
Click "Realtek Audio HD Manager".
Select "Speakers", then click the folder icon under "Device Advanced Settings".
Choose "Disable Front Panel Jack Detection" and click "OK".
Save the changes, close Realtek Audio HD Manager, restart your computer, and check if the audio issue is resolved.
7. Check for Windows Updates
Press Win + I to open Settings.
Select "Update & Security", then click "Windows Update".
Click "Check for Updates". The system will search for and install any available updates.
After installing all updates, restart your computer.
Check if the audio device is now working properly.
Follow these steps to fix audio device, driver, and Windows settings issues. If the problem persists, contact the device manufacturer or technical support.
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Guide to Fixing a Computer That Keeps Crashing
