after BIOS update, primary audio device is missing

[astraljenga]

Last night, there was an update to the HP BIOS on my laptop. Today, there is no trace of my default audio device. None. It was a Realtek... something. I've restarted the computer, used the HP Support Assistant, downloaded every possible driver, and nothing changes. It still recognizes my Bluetooth headset and in fact refuses to uninstall those drivers. Device Manager detects no hardware changes. The Windows troubleshooter can't figure it out. I'm hesitant to roll back the BIOS update since this laptop has experienced hard drive and BIOS failure over the past few months and I'm really hoping this update helps that cease (since of course once it became an issue the laptop was out of warranty) but I'm not sure what else I can try?

[DaveL62]

Same error happened to me today also....have to use my blue tooth speaker for sound.....HELP!

[KrazyToad]

@astraljenga

I suggest you run an Audio Test from F2 Diagnostic to confirm the Hardware Functionality

 - Hold the power button for at least five seconds to turn off the Notebook.
- Turn on the computer and immediately press Esc repeatedly, about once every second. 
- When the menu appears, press the F2 key.
- On the main menu, click Component Tests and Audio

If all the Test pass try running the SFC Scan and check if that helps.

You can refer to this Link: https://support.microsoft.com/en-in/help/4026529/windows-10-using-system-file-checker

Keep me posted how it goes 😊

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[astraljenga]

I actually figured it out two nights ago and neglected to update this; thank you, though, for your reply!

It turned out to be something in the system devices tab of the Device Manager. It says High Definition Audio Controller now because I fixed it, but before it was Intel something. It had the yellow warning symbol next to it, and either needed to be updated or reinstalled. I wish I'd thought to take a screenshot before I fixed it but I was just so relieved to discover the root of the issue. The speakers work fine now!

@DaveL62 go into your Device Manager and scroll down to System devices, expand the list and see if there's a yellow warning symbol on any of them. If not, try what @KrazyToad suggested. 👍

[KrazyToad]

@astraljenga

I'm glad you got this issue sorted out

Do visit out HP Support Community and drop us a message anytime you need help

If the information I've provided was helpful, give us some reinforcement by clicking the "Solution Accepted" on this Post and it will also help other community members with similar issue.