Dell laptops - activate headphone port or fix No Audio Output Device is Installed error

Overview

Some Dell laptops, particularly after some windows updates, may need a driver update to active the headphone port or fix "No Audio Output Device Is Installed" error showing when trying to turn on or increase the volume.

Procedures

1. Open https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-us/drivers/driversdetails?driverid=grdhhhttps://support.dell.com
2. Click Enter Details
3. Enter the Service Tag for your Dell laptop.  This can be found under the flap on the bottom of the laptop.
4. Find and download the Realtek High Definition Audio Driver.
5. Run the installer package.
6. Click "Yes" on the User Account Control window to allow the application to make changes to your device.
7. Click "Install" to install the new driver.
8. Proceed through the installer which will uninstall the old driver and reinstall a new one.
9. At the end of the installer you should reboot your laptop for the device to start functioning properly.
10. Additional steps to fix No Audio Output Device is Installed:
    • In Windows search bar search:  Device Manager
    • click on System devices
    • Look for audio driver that has SST in it:  Intel(R) Smart Sound Technology (Intel(R) SST) Audio Controller - right click and click on update driver
    • Select "Browse my computer for driver software" and click Next
    • Select let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer - click Next
    • Select High Definition Audio Controller - click Next
    • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQmRY4jxtoo
11. If this does not resolve audio problems, please submit a Support Request.

Last Reviewed: 06-Apr-2021