Headset Problem

[simsfreq]

Whenever I plug a headset or microphone into my computer the computer won't recognise it, in fact, it doesn't even realise there's anything there.

I have no documentation or installation CDs for the microphones because they came free with some music software (microphone works on my mac, tape recorder etc.) and a game (for which the headset worked on my old computer, running Windows 98)

I am running Windows XP. Can anybody help at all?

[j2buttonsw]

a headset or a microphone is not a plug and play device so your computer will not recognise it. what you can do is plug the mic in (make sure it goes in the correct mini jack socket) then go start > control panel > sounds and multimedia (audio devices) > audio tab > sound recording > volume > and make sure the microphone is ticked on the recording control. if you talk into it you should hear it through your speakers

[simsfreq]

I've tried that, didn't work, any other ideas?

[mattie]

Are you plugging it into the front or back of the PC, assuming your PC has front audio sockets (Microphone sockets are pink BTW).

Even though a PC has front audio sockets on the case, they may not be connected inside.

[tomd]

As standard, the Mic In is muted in the system volume. Have you un-muted it?

[simsfreq]

Ah, that might explain it. I will try plugging it into the back of the PC and see if that helps. Tomd, the first answer told me to do that but thanks anyway ;-)