There are many audio devices available for PC. Some are built into motherboard, and some are add-on cards that can be installed in a machine. Still more plug into a USB port. Each one of them needs a well-suited device driver.

The XP Audio Stack

1. One thing that all devices have in common is that their drivers must interface with audio stack in Windows. The audio stack is what takes a command from a program and sends it to the sound driver.

Audio Chipsets

2. Luckily, as there are many devices, various audio chipsets is comparatively small, in low hundreds. Occasionally, a driver for a particular chipset is functional on any device that utilizes it.

Windows Update

3. If an Internet connection is accessible, Windows Update must be able to find a driver for a particular device.

Manufacturer Website

4. The audio device company's website must have a driver for device. On pre-built PCs, laptops and for motherboards, check with company of that part.

Universal Audio Architecture

5. Sound cards certified by Microsoft as well-suited with Windows Vista support Universal Audio Architecture. Means there is a basic driver that supports any device intended to UAA specs. This driver is included with Windows XP SP3.

If You Can't Find a Driver

6. If drivers for device cannot be found, it must be easier to change it. As low-end sound cards can be found for less than $20, both online and in retail stores.