Update to the sound driver that came with Windows 10
Update to the sound driver that came with Windows 10
Vote: (111 votes)
Program license: Free
Developer: HP.
Version: 5.12.01.3620
Works under: Windows
Vote:
Program license
(111 votes)
Free
Developer
Version
HP.
5.12.01.3620
Works under:
Windows
Pros
- Enables digital sound capabilities
- Compatible with most Windows versions
- Normally easy to download and install
- The setup process has been improved
Cons
- DirectX or CSSM updates may be needed
- Fairly large for a device driver
The ADI SoundMAX AC97 driver enables you to use SoundMAX integrated audio hardware under most Windows operating systems. Some Dell, Lenovo, Compaq and Hewlett-Packard computers feature this kind of chipset. After installing the driver and connecting headphones or speakers to your PC, you can run a variety of audio software.
Why Use It?
A sound driver is necessary if you want to play or record any type of audio with the SoundMAX hardware. Among other things, you may use it to play CDs, hear sound effects in games, stream music and record your voice. New computers normally come with preinstalled drivers. However, you may need this software if you change or reinstall the OS.
Setup Process
To get started, you must download, extract and run the setup program. The user interface will guide you through the installation process. A potential problem is that SoundMAX setup utilities tend to supply vague error messages when something goes wrong. If the driver won't install, you might have an incompatible edition of Windows or DirectX.
Requirements
The current version of the ADI SoundMAX AC97 driver works under all recent Windows operating systems. They include 98, Millenium Edition, 2000, XP, NT, Vista, 2003, Seven and Eight. At a minimum, your computer should also have DirectX version six. Some Compaq PCs may require a newer edition of the Compaq System Software Manager as well.
Developer
This free driver and the corresponding audio chipset were developed by Massachusetts-based Analog Devices. The company produces a variety of integrated circuits, sensors and amplifiers for electronics. Analog Devices has remained in business for over 48 years. Despite the manufacturer's name, SoundMAX hardware supports digital audio.
Basically, this SoundMAX AC97 driver enables Windows computer applications to use SoundMAX built-in audio hardware to play and record sounds. It may also perform slightly better than older versions of the same driver. The file size is just under 15 megabytes, so you can download this software quickly on most Internet connections.
Pros
- Enables digital sound capabilities
- Compatible with most Windows versions
- Normally easy to download and install
- The setup process has been improved
Cons
- DirectX or CSSM updates may be needed
- Fairly large for a device driver