What to do if the Windows 10 microphone is disconnected.
Contents
What to do if the Windows 10 microphone is disconnected
Method 1: Adjust the gain and boost
Often, a phonic microphone is not caused by hardware problems, but by software adjustments or a malfunction. A large number of enhancements and high gain levels can cause hum, not only in low-cost built-in devices, but also in quality outboard gear. To fix the problem, try disabling all enhancements via internal applications or the sound card’s proprietary utility.

Option 1: “Sound control panel”
Through the “Options” application. In Windows 10 you can switch to classic “Sound Control Panel” where settings for audio equipment, including microphones, are available.
Then check if the microphone is still ringing in Windows 10. If the problem persists, move on to the next methods, which cover more serious system and hardware issues.

Option 2: Realtek HD
Most sound cards communicate and configure through the component manufacturer’s proprietary application, which in most cases is Realtek HD Audio Manager. You can control the microphone enhancements through it. If you have a different application, the point of use will remain, the only difference will be the lookup for the parameters in question.
Also Read: Install Realtek HD on Windows 10 PC

The settings in the Realtek HD manager may vary, depending on the capabilities of the sound equipment used.
Also read:
What to do if the Realtek HD in Windows 10 does not install
What to do if Realtek HD won’t start on Windows 10

Method 2: Built-in troubleshooter
Ten has a built-in troubleshooter that can also check if the microphone is malfunctioning and advise the user how to fix it:
The internal tool will then independently diagnose Windows and audio recording hardware problems. The checking process is displayed on the screen. If the problem is detected, the tool will provide recommendations on how to correct it.
Method 3: Update the driver
Outdated sound hardware software sometimes causes problems not only with playback, but also with the microphone. If an embedded device is used (on a laptop, a webcam), it is possible to update the driver using internal tools or third-party software. Our guide provides more information on how to update your sound device software in Windows 10.

Read more: Download and install sound drivers
There is usually no separate software for external microphones, unless they are expensive models. Software for them allows you to fine-tune the sound, especially if it’s professional equipment. If there is no information about the software in the package, try to find it yourself on the company’s website by entering the model name in the search box.
Method 4: Checking the equipment and connectors
Dirt or damage to external equipment, such as the sound connectors on a computer or laptop, also cause recording problems. Check that the microphone cable and plug are not bent or have other mechanical damage. If found, the device must be replaced or taken in for repair.

The same goes for the 3.5mm or USB-C jack on the sound card. If the component is integrated into the motherboard, you will not be able to change it without skill: you will have to take it (if you have a PC) or your laptop to a service center. On some computers, the sound card may be a separate external device; in such a case, just remove it and seek professional help. Those who have had to replace their sound card with a new external one may find our separate material on connecting it to your PC helpful.
Also read: Connect a sound card to a motherboard
Method 5: Third Party Software
There is special software that can be used to adjust the performance of the microphone. This will help if the problem is at the software level and not the hardware. Some are a virtual mixer for real-time processing in games or when communicating, while others work with already recorded tracks from the microphone to enhance them. You can try to remove background while recording on Windows 10 using these apps. Our separate article provides an overview of such software with a short description and download links.
Read More: Microphone Sound Enhancement Software
