How to Fix a Built-in Laptop Mic

By Greyson Ferguson

Adjust the recording settings on your laptop computer system.
i laptop image by Angie Lingnau from Fotolia.com

Many laptop computers feature a built-in camera and microphone. This allows you to communicate with other individuals over the Internet via video chat. However, if the microphone is not properly picking up the audio on your computer, you will need to make a few adjustments to make sure it is functioning properly. Once corrected, you will be able to record and use the microphone at any time.

Step 1

Restart the computer. If the microphone has suddenly stopped working, a standard reboot will often fix the problem. This typically occurs when the computer does not load the operating system properly.

Step 2

Wipe off the microphone (usually located next to the webcam on the monitor of the computer) with a clean cloth to remove any dust that may be blocking the built-in mic.

Step 3

Adjust settings. Click the "Start" button on the desktop, then choose "Control Panel." Select "Sounds Speech and Audio Devices," then click the "Input" option. Set the input to "Built-in Microphone" and click "Apply." If the computer is on any other setting, you you will not be able to pick up any audio with the microphone.

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