Onboard sound is a built-in feature found in most motherboards, allowing audio to be transmitted through the various ports on the device. While it may seem like a useful feature for many computer users, some may want to disable it for various reasons. Disabling onboard sound can help free up system resources, boost performance, and avoid any potential conflicts with external sound equipment. In this guide, we will provide a step-by-step process on how to disable onboard sound on your computer.
Before proceeding with the steps, it is important to note that disabling onboard sound may not always be necessary. If you have an external sound card or other audio device that you use, that may suffice, and you may not require any further action. However, for those who want to stop onboard sound from interfering with their external sound device or if it is causing problems, this guide will provide detailed instructions on disabling it entirely.
How to Disable Onboard Sound?
Onboard sound refers to the built-in audio system on a motherboard. However, some individuals may choose to disable it due to issues with sound quality or the need to use an external sound card. The following steps can be taken to disable onboard sound:
1. Determine the make and model of the motherboard – this information is usually visible on the device or can be found in the documentation.
2. Access the BIOS settings – this can be done by rebooting the computer and pressing the appropriate key (usually F2, F10, or Del) during the boot-up process.
3. Navigate to the “Integrated Peripherals” or “Onboard Devices” option in the BIOS settings – this may vary depending on the manufacturer and BIOS version.
4. Locate the “Audio” or “AC97” option – this may also be labeled as “HD Audio” or “Sound.”
5. Disable the Audio option – this can be done by selecting “Disabled” or “Off.”
6. Save the changes and exit the BIOS settings – this can be done by selecting “Save Changes and Exit” or “Exit without Saving,” depending on the desired outcome.
7. Install a sound card (optional) – if necessary, an external sound card can be installed on the computer to provide audio output. The sound card should be installed in an available PCIe or PCI slot and the drivers should be installed accordingly.
Overall, disabling onboard sound involves accessing the BIOS settings, navigating to the appropriate option, and disabling it. This can be done for improved sound quality or to utilize an external sound card.
FAQ
1. What is onboard sound and how can I disable it?
Onboard sound is the built-in audio hardware on your computer’s motherboard. To disable it, access your computer’s BIOS and navigate to the “Integrated Peripherals” options. From there, you can disable the onboard sound.
2. Why would I want to disable onboard sound?
There are several reasons why you might want to disable onboard sound, including if you are installing a new sound card or if you are experiencing issues with the quality of your audio.
3. Can I disable onboard sound without accessing the BIOS?
In some cases, you may be able to disable onboard sound through your operating system’s device manager. Simply locate your onboard sound device and select “Disable” from the options.
4. Is it possible to re-enable onboard sound after disabling it?
Yes, you can typically re-enable onboard sound by returning to your computer’s BIOS and selecting the appropriate options to enable the onboard sound once again.
5. What should I do if my computer does not have an option to disable onboard sound?
If your computer does not have an option to disable onboard sound in the BIOS, you may need to physically remove the audio chip from your motherboard or purchase a new motherboard altogether to disable onboard sound.
Conclusion
In summary, disabling onboard sound on a computer can provide a multitude of benefits, including better audio quality and increased stability. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily disable onboard sound on your computer and enjoy a better audio experience. Remember to be cautious when making changes to your computer’s hardware, and if you’re unsure about any steps, seek the advice of a professional. Happy listening!
