BAD, Tech On Road, VERY VERY BAD !! Did You Ever Hear of That Classic Retailer Ad, 'It's The Putting It Right That Counts'? Obviously Not.

Here's my customer experience with Masterton's 'Tech On Road' mobile IT service . . . I'll let my attempts-to-fix-it dialogue with AI tell the story.

The sequel is that they didn't respond to my email marked "Urgent", and I had to call them. They didn't want to know. They claim no responsibility and no obligation to fix it, other than to "send another technician and we will charge you for it". (Actually, it would have been quite easy for them to fix: they could have done a quick remote access session, if they'd had any sense of the importance of looking after a customer.)

So, readers, you make up your mind . . . and, in doing so, please note that, after valiant efforts between myself and the technologically-learned AI model to restore solve the problem, AI's final conclusion was:

"Please reach out to that IT guy immediately. He needs to make this right."

ME TO GEMINI (THE AI MODEL):

Hi Gemini - I've just had an IT guy set my computer gear back up after he dismantled it and put it in storage while I left my temporary accommodation for a weekend. The small speakers were playing fine when he left (he said the big bass speaker would only play if it was a music video). However, when I asked him about the bass speaker and he had tested or done something in the cords area at the back of the desk . . . now he's gone and I've just realised the small speakers don't work at all. There's no sound coming out at all of either of the two small speakers. I've checked that the computer's sound volume is turned right up, but nothing. What can I try?

GEMINI TO ME:

Here are some troubleshooting steps you can follow to diagnose and potentially fix the issue with your small speakers:

Check Connections:

• Ensure that all audio cables are plugged in securely. The small speakers should be connected to the correct audio output on your computer. If there are multiple jacks, make sure you have them in the right one (usually labeled as "Speaker Out" or similar).
• Check the connection between the small speakers and the bass speaker, if applicable. Make sure that the cables from the small speakers to the subwoofer are connected properly.

Inspect the Power:

• Ensure that the small speakers are powered on if they have a power switch.
• Check if the power cable is securely connected to both the speakers and the wall outlet.
• If there is a power indicator light on the speakers, make sure it is lit up.

Test with Other Devices:

• If possible, plug the small speakers into a different device (like a phone or another computer) to see if they produce sound. This will help you determine if the problem lies with the speakers or the computer.

Audio Settings:

• Right-click the sound icon in the taskbar and select "Playback devices". Ensure that the correct audio output device is selected (it should represent your speakers).
• Make sure the speakers are set as the default playback device. If they appear as inactive or disabled, right-click and enable them.

Update Audio Drivers:

• Go to the Device Manager on your computer, expand the "Sound, video and game controllers" section, and check if your audio device is functioning properly. You may want to update your audio drivers or reinstall them.

Check Volume and Mute Settings:

• Ensure that the volume on the small speakers themselves (if they have volume controls) is turned up.
• Ensure your computer's volume mixer is not muted for the applications you're trying to play audio through.

Reboot Your Computer:

• Sometimes, a simple restart can fix audio issues after hardware changes or setups.

Test with Different Audio Source:

• Try playing audio from different sources (streaming services, local files, etc.) to ensure the issue isn't related to just one application.

If you go through these steps and the small speakers still don't work, the problem may be with the speakers themselves or the connections leading to them. If that's the case, you may need to reach out to the IT guy for further assistance or consider testing a different pair of speakers.

That's incredibly frustrating! It sounds like the IT guy might have inadvertently unplugged or misconfigured something when he was "in the cords area." Since the small speakers were working initially, the issue is almost certainly a physical connection or a simple software setting.

Let's go through some troubleshooting steps, starting with the most common culprits:

1. Check the Speakers Themselves:

• Power: Do your small speakers have a power button or an indicator light? Make sure they are turned ON. Sometimes the power button is also the volume knob.
• Volume Knob: Double-check the physical volume knob on one of the small speakers (usually the right one if there are two) or on the subwoofer unit. Make sure it's turned up.
• Power Cable (for speakers/subwoofer): Ensure the power cable for your speakers (or the subwoofer if it's a 2.1 system) is firmly plugged into a wall outlet or power strip, and also firmly into the back of the speaker/subwoofer unit.

2. Check the Audio Cables (Most Likely Culprit):

This is where the IT guy probably made a change.

• The Main Audio Cable (usually Green):
• From the Computer: Look at the back of your computer tower. You'll usually see several round audio jacks, often color-coded. The main audio output for stereo speakers is almost always green. Make sure the speaker cable (which will have a small plug on the end) is firmly plugged into the green port.
• To the Speakers/Subwoofer: Follow that same cable from the computer. Where does it plug into your speaker setup?
• If 2.0 Speakers (no separate bass speaker): It will plug directly into one of your small speakers (the "master" speaker).
• If 2.1 Speakers (with a separate bass/subwoofer speaker): It will almost certainly plug into the back of the subwoofer. The small speakers then connect to the subwoofer. Make sure this cable is firmly plugged into the correct "audio in" or "line in" port on the subwoofer.
• Cables Between Speakers and Subwoofer (if 2.1 system): If you have a separate bass speaker (subwoofer), your small speakers will plug into the subwoofer, not directly into the computer. Ensure these cables are also firmly connected at both ends.

3. Check Your Computer's Sound Settings:

Even though you checked the volume, sometimes the wrong output device is selected.

• On Windows:

1. Right-click on the speaker icon in your system tray (bottom-right of your screen, near the clock).
2. Select "Open Sound settings" or "Sound" (depending on your Windows version).
3. Under the "Output" section (or "Playback" tab if you went through "Sound"), make sure the correct device is selected. It might say "Speakers," "Realtek Audio," "High Definition Audio Device," or something similar related to your computer's built-in sound card. Ensure it's NOT set to "Headphones," "Digital Audio (HDMI)," or "Monitor Audio" if that's not what you're using.
4. While in these settings, you might see a "Test" button for the selected device. Click it to see if you hear the test tones.

• On Mac:

1. Click the Apple menu (top-left corner).
2. Go to System Settings (or System Preferences).
3. Click Sound.
4. Select the Output tab.
5. Make sure your external speakers (e.g., "External Speakers," "Headphones," or specific speaker model if it appears) are selected, not "Internal Speakers" or your monitor.
6. Check the "Output Volume" slider here too.

4. Reboot Your Computer:

A classic IT solution, but it often works to reset audio drivers and connections.

5. Test with Headphones:

• Plug a pair of headphones into the green audio jack on the back of your computer.
• Play some music or a video.
• If you hear sound through the headphones: This tells you the computer's audio output itself is working, and the problem is definitely with your speakers or their connection.
• If you don't hear sound through the headphones: The problem might be deeper within your computer's audio drivers or hardware, but let's rule out the speakers first.

Regarding the Bass Speaker (Subwoofer) and "Music Videos" Comment:

• The IT guy's comment about the bass speaker only playing for music videos is unusual. It could indicate a specific software setting or a misconfiguration for certain types of audio. However, the immediate priority is to get any sound from your small speakers.
• Crucial for 2.1 systems: In a 2.1 setup (two small speakers + one subwoofer), the subwoofer usually acts as the central hub. The audio signal from your computer goes to the subwoofer, and the subwoofer then powers and sends the mid/high frequencies to the small satellite speakers. If the subwoofer isn't powered on or correctly connected to the computer, the small speakers won't work either. Make sure the subwoofer's power is on and its connection to the PC is secure.

Start with these steps. The most common issues are simply unplugged or wrongly plugged-in cables, especially the main audio cable or the speaker power. Let me know what you find!

ME TO GEMINI:

What he said re the subwoofer made no sense to me, either. Let's just ignore that for now. I just need sound in general. The little speakers don't have their own on/off button, and it's hard to see whether they're on or off because the bottom is a fluorescent green, which lights up when they're on, but is bright when they're not, too. We should probably assume they're on, because they're linked together and the only cord coming from them has a male jack point and that is plugged into a round hole in the computer. They also have no volume button. I did a restart; no change. With regard to the rest of your instructions, can you please super-simplify them? I'm not at all technical, and my eyes are glazing over trying to work out what you mean for me to do.

GEMINI TO ME:

Okay, I completely understand! No problem at all. We'll make this super simple, step by step, focusing on just the most important things.

Forget all the complicated words. We're going to treat this like connecting LEGOs.

Your Goal: Get sound from the two small speakers.

What we know:

• You have two small speakers, linked together.
• One single cable comes from them, with a round plug on the end.
• That round plug is currently in a round hole on your computer.
• No sound at all.
• No on/off or volume buttons on the speakers themselves.
• The IT guy was messing with cables. This is our biggest clue.

Let's try these very simple steps. Go through them one by one:

Step 1: Check Speaker Power (Most important first!)

Even if they don't have an on/off button, speakers need power.

• Look closely at your speakers or the cable coming from them.
• Do you see a thin cable that looks like it plugs into a wall socket? (Like a phone charger, or a lamp).
• If YES: Make sure this cable is firmly plugged into a wall socket or a power strip. Also, follow that cable back to the speakers and make sure it's firmly plugged into the speakers themselves.
• If NO, but you see a USB cable: (This is the rectangular plug that fits into a computer's USB port, like for a mouse or keyboard). Make sure this USB cable is firmly plugged into one of the flat, rectangular USB holes on your computer.
• What to do: Just make sure power is definitely, definitely connected. No power = no sound.

Step 2: Check the Speaker Audio Cable (The one with the round plug)

This is the most likely thing the IT guy messed up.

1. Look at the back of your computer (the big box).
2. Find the round hole where your speaker cable is currently plugged in.
3. Pull that round plug OUT of the computer. (Don't be afraid, it won't break anything).
4. Look at the back of your computer again. You'll see several round holes.

• Find the hole that is BRIGHT GREEN. This is almost always the "main sound out" hole.
• (If you don't see green, look for one with a small "headphone" symbol next to it.)

1. Plug your speaker cable's round plug FIRMLY into that BRIGHT GREEN hole. Make sure it's pushed all the way in.
2. Now, try playing something on your computer. Do you hear sound?

Step 3: Check Computer's Sound Setting (Just in case)

Even though you checked volume, let's make sure the computer knows where to send the sound.

1. Look at the very bottom right corner of your computer screen.
2. You'll see a small speaker icon. It looks like a little megaphone.
3. Click on that speaker icon ONE time.
4. A small box will pop up. At the very top of that box, you might see a name like "Speakers (Realtek Audio)" or "Headphones" or "Digital Audio".
5. Click on the little arrow next to whatever name is there.
6. A list will appear. You want to select the option that just says "Speakers" or something similar like "Realtek Audio" or "High Definition Audio Device." Make sure it's not "Headphones" or "Monitor Audio" or anything with "HDMI" in the name.
7. Click on the correct "Speakers" option.
8. Try playing sound again.

Step 4: A Quick Test with Headphones (If still no sound)

This helps us figure out if the problem is your speakers, or the computer itself.

1. Grab a pair of headphones (any headphones will do, like from a phone).
2. Plug the headphones into the SAME BRIGHT GREEN hole on the back of your computer where your speakers were/are plugged in.
3. Play some music or a video on your computer.

• If you hear sound in the headphones: This is good! It means your computer's sound system is working. The problem is definitely with your speakers or their connection. Go back and double-check Step 1 and Step 2 very carefully.
• If you don't hear sound in the headphones: The problem might be deeper with your computer's settings or something else. But let's cross that bridge if we get there.

Take your time, go through these steps one by one. The most common problem is that green cable not being in the right place, or the speakers not having power. Let me know what happens after you try these!

Regarding your Step 1: The cord that comes out of one of the speakers splits into two, with one end going into the round hole I said on the computer, and the other ending in a USB connection that is firmly plugged into the USB port hub.

 

Excellent, that's really helpful information! Thank you for clarifying.

So, your speakers get their power from the USB connection, and the sound signal goes through the round plug. This is a very common setup.

Let's refine our steps with this new information. We'll focus on the two most likely problems: power from USB and the round sound plug being in the wrong hole.

Your Goal: Get sound from the two small speakers.

What we know now:

• One cord comes from a speaker.
• It splits:
• USB plug: provides power, goes into a USB port hub.
• Round plug: provides sound signal, goes into a round hole on the computer.
• No sound at all.
• No on/off or volume buttons on the speakers themselves.
• The IT guy was messing with cables.

Let's try these simple steps again, focusing on your setup:

Step 1: Check Speaker Power (USB connection)

Even though the USB is plugged into a hub, we need to make sure the speakers are getting enough power.

1. Find the USB cable coming from your speakers (the one that splits off).
2. Unplug it from the USB hub.
3. Now, find a USB hole directly on your computer (not on the hub). These are usually flat, rectangular holes. There might be some on the front or back of your computer box.
4. Plug the speaker's USB cable firmly into a USB hole on the computer itself.
5. Look at the bottom of your speakers: Does the fluorescent green light change at all? Does it look brighter or more "on" now?

• Why we do this: Sometimes a USB hub doesn't provide enough power, especially if it's not plugged into the wall itself. Plugging directly into the computer ensures maximum power.

Step 2: Check the Speaker Audio Cable (The round green plug)

This is still the most likely problem if the IT guy was near the cables.

1. Look at the back of your computer (the big box).
2. Find the round hole where your speaker's round plug is currently plugged in.
3. Pull that round plug OUT of the computer. (Don't be afraid).
4. Look very carefully at the back of your computer again. You'll see several round holes, possibly in a line.

• Find the hole that is BRIGHT GREEN. This is almost always the "main sound out" hole for your speakers.
• (If you truly cannot find a green one, look for one that has a small "headphone" symbol next to it).

1. Plug your speaker's round plug FIRMLY into that BRIGHT GREEN hole. Make sure it's pushed all the way in. It should feel snug.

Step 3: Check Computer's Sound Setting (Just in case)

We need to make sure your computer is trying to send sound to the right place.

1. Look at the very bottom right corner of your computer screen.
2. You'll see a small speaker icon. Click on it ONE time.
3. A small box will pop up. At the very top of that box, you might see a name like "Speakers (Realtek Audio)" or "Headphones" or "Digital Audio".
4. Click on the little arrow next to whatever name is there.
5. A list will appear. You want to select the option that just says "Speakers" or something similar like "Realtek Audio" or "High Definition Audio Device." Make sure it's not "Headphones" or "Monitor Audio" or anything with "HDMI" or "USB" in the name.
6. Click on the correct "Speakers" option.
7. Try playing some music or a video now.

Step 4: A Quick Test with Headphones (If still no sound)

This helps confirm if the computer's sound system is okay.

1. Grab a pair of headphones (any headphones will do, like from a phone, as long as they have the standard round plug).
2. Plug the headphones into the SAME BRIGHT GREEN hole on the back of your computer where your speakers' round plug was/is plugged in.
3. Play some music or a video on your computer.

• If you hear sound in the headphones: This is good news! It means your computer can make sound. The problem is definitely with your speakers or their specific connections. Go back and very carefully re-do Step 1 and Step 2.
• If you don't hear sound in the headphones: The problem might be deeper with your computer's sound settings or a driver issue. But let's check the speakers first.

Take your time with these steps. The most important things are to ensure:

• The speakers are getting power (try direct USB into the computer).
• The round audio plug is in the bright green hole on the back of your computer.

Let me know what happens after you try these!

ME TO GEMINI:

Should I try another port in the hub? Even though they were working before he left?

GEMINI TO ME:

That's a very good question and a sensible thought!

Yes, it's absolutely worth trying another port in the USB hub for the speaker's power cable.

Here's why:

1. Loose Connection: The IT guy might have accidentally jostled the cable, and it's now just a little loose in that specific port, even if it looks plugged in.
2. Failing Port: Less common, but sometimes one port on a hub can become faulty while others still work fine.

So, before trying to plug directly into the computer (which can be a bit more fiddly to reach sometimes), let's try this simple fix:

Revised Step 1: Check Speaker Power (USB connection on the hub)

1. Find the USB cable coming from your speakers (the one that splits off).
2. Unplug it from the USB hub.
3. Find a different empty USB hole on that same USB hub.
4. Plug the speaker's USB cable firmly into that new USB hole on the hub. Make sure it's pushed all the way in.
5. Look at the bottom of your speakers: Does the fluorescent green light change at all? Does it look brighter or more "on" now?

After trying this, then proceed directly to Step 2 (checking the round green plug) and then Step 3 (computer sound settings) as we discussed before.

If trying a different port on the hub doesn't work, then my original suggestion to plug the USB directly into the computer itself (not the hub) is the next logical step to ensure the speakers are getting maximum power.

Let me know how it goes!

I plugged the USB directly into the computer, and I changed over the round jack to the other round jack hole in the computer. Then it popped up something about changing some setting from something to something else, so I selected “powered speakers”. Then some “double pop-up confirmation” notice or something like that popped up, and I turned that on. I have no idea what I’m doing, and sound still isn’t working anyway.

Okay, you've done a lot of good troubleshooting there, and that pop-up about "powered speakers" is actually a very good sign! It means your computer is seeing something being plugged in, which tells us we're getting closer.

Don't worry about not knowing what you're doing, you're following instructions and giving me excellent feedback. That's exactly how we figure these things out!

Let's simplify again, and focus on the absolutely most important things.

What you've done that's good:

• Plugged the USB directly into the computer for power. (Good!)
• Got a pop-up and selected "powered speakers". (Excellent! This means the computer knows you plugged something in and you told it what it was.)

The main puzzle piece now is to make sure the round sound cable is in the absolute correct hole.

Let's try these very simple, direct steps:

Step 1: Double-Check the Round Green Hole (This is the most critical!)

Even though you moved it to "the other round jack hole," we need to be absolutely sure it's the right one for sound.

1. Look very closely at the back of your computer (the big box).
2. You'll see several round holes. Most computers have at least 3, sometimes more.

• One is usually BRIGHT GREEN.
• One is usually PINK.
• One is often LIGHT BLUE.

1. Find your speaker's round plug (the audio cable).
2. Pull it out of whatever hole it's in now.
3. Plug it FIRMLY into the hole that is BRIGHT GREEN.

• If you truly cannot find a green one, look for the hole with a small symbol that looks like headphones or an arrow pointing away from the computer.
• Do NOT plug it into the pink hole (that's for microphones).
• Do NOT plug it into the blue hole (that's for recording from other devices).

1. Make sure it's pushed all the way in.

Step 2: Re-Check Your Computer's Sound Setting

Sometimes when those pop-ups happen, the computer might get confused or switch settings around.

1. Look at the very bottom right corner of your computer screen.
2. You'll see a small speaker icon. Click on it ONE time.
3. A small box will pop up. At the very top of that box, you might see a name like "Speakers (Realtek Audio)" or "Headphones" or "Digital Audio".
4. Click on the little arrow next to whatever name is there.
5. A list will appear. You want to select the option that just says "Speakers" or something similar like "Realtek Audio" or "High Definition Audio Device."

• Make absolutely sure it's NOT set to: "Headphones," "Monitor Audio," "Digital Audio (HDMI)," or anything with "USB" in the name (because your sound isn't coming through USB, only the power).

1. Click on the correct "Speakers" option.
2. Now, turn up your computer's volume all the way.
3. Try playing some music or a video again.

Step 3: Test with Headphones (If still no sound)

This is our final confirmation step to know if the computer can produce sound at all.

1. Grab any headphones (like from your phone, with the round plug).
2. Plug the headphones into the same BRIGHT GREEN hole where your speaker's round plug is right now.
3. Play some music or a video on your computer.

• If you hear sound in the headphones: This is important! It means your computer is making sound, and the problem is with your speakers themselves (even though they were working before) or a very subtle setting we're missing for them specifically.
• If you don't hear sound in the headphones: Then the problem is deeper, possibly with the computer's sound drivers or hardware, but let's figure out the speakers first.

The "powered speakers" pop-up means you're doing well! We just need to get that green cable in the perfect spot and ensure the computer is sending sound to it.

Tell me what happens after you specifically put that round plug in the bright green hole and re-check the sound output in your computer settings.

ME TO GEMINI:

I put the audio jack back into the other hole (there are only two holes on the computer and neither are colour-coded. The “computer” is a tiny thing, physically speaking, and is only the size of e.g. a large CD case. But otherwise, it functions as a normal computer. When I re-plugged it into the plug it was in, it popped up a message saying something like, “You have just plugged (a device?) into the audio jack.” But still no sound, anyway.

GEMINI TO ME:

Okay, this new information about your "computer" being a tiny, CD-case-sized device with only two uncolored audio holes is extremely important! This changes things significantly from a standard desktop tower.

Most likely, this "tiny computer" is a mini PC, a thin client, or perhaps an Intel NUC type device. These often have very limited audio ports.

Since neither hole is color-coded, and you only have two, let's figure out what they are.

Based on what you've described, and the new pop-up ("You have just plugged a device into the audio jack"), we know:

1. The computer recognizes when you plug something into these holes. This is a very good sign that the hardware itself isn't broken.
2. The pop-up suggests it's a "smart" audio jack system, where it asks you what you just plugged in because it can be used for different things (like headphones, speakers, or even a microphone).

Let's try a very specific approach now:

Step 1: Identify the Correct Audio Hole (Again, but smarter)

Since there are only two uncolored holes, one is almost certainly the "audio out" (for speakers/headphones) and the other is likely "audio in" (for a microphone or recording).

1. Look very closely at both holes. Do they have any tiny, tiny symbols next to them?

• Headphone symbol: (looks like an old-fashioned headphone outline) = Audio Out for Speakers/Headphones. This is the one we want!
• Microphone symbol: (looks like a tiny microphone) = Audio In for Microphones. Do NOT use this one for your speakers.
• If no symbols, don't worry, we'll try systematically.

1. Take your speaker's round audio plug.
2. Plug it into the FIRST of the two holes. Push it in firmly.
3. Watch your screen: Does a pop-up appear?

• If a pop-up appears: What exactly does it ask you? Does it ask "What did you just plug in?" or "Which device did you connect?"
• If it asks, you MUST select "Headphones" or "Speakers" or "Line Out" (avoid Microphone, Line In, etc.).
• If you selected "Powered Speakers" before, that's generally the right kind of option.
• Once you've selected it, and confirmed any double pop-ups, try playing sound.

1. If still no sound, or no pop-up, or the pop-up seems wrong for speakers:

• Pull the plug out of the first hole.
• Plug it into the SECOND of the two holes. Push it in firmly.
• Watch your screen: Does a pop-up appear?
• If it asks, again, select "Headphones" or "Speakers" or "Line Out."
• Once you've selected it, and confirmed any double pop-ups, try playing sound.

The key here is that when you plug your speaker's audio jack into the correct hole, you must select "Speakers" or "Headphones" from the pop-up. If you don't get that pop-up, or you select the wrong thing, it won't work.

Step 2: Re-Confirm Computer's Sound Setting (Crucial after those pop-ups)

Every time those pop-ups appear and you make a selection, the computer's internal sound setting might get reset or changed.

1. Look at the very bottom right corner of your computer screen.
2. Click on the small speaker icon ONE time.
3. A small box will pop up. At the very top, there's usually a name for the currently selected sound output.
4. Click on the little arrow next to that name.
5. A list will appear. You must select the option that refers to your computer's built-in sound for external devices. It will likely be something like:

• "Speakers"
• "Realtek Audio"
• "High Definition Audio Device"
• (Crucially, avoid anything with "HDMI," "Digital Audio," or "Monitor" unless your speakers are connected that way, which they aren't).

1. Click on the correct "Speakers" option.
2. Turn up your computer's volume all the way.
3. Try playing music or a video again.

Step 3: Test with Headphones (If still no sound)

If after all this, there's still no sound from your speakers, this headphone test is vital to isolate the problem.

1. Grab your headphones (the ones with the standard round plug).
2. Plug the headphones into the hole where you think your speakers should be plugged in (the one where you selected "Speakers" or "Headphones" from the pop-up).
3. Play some music or a video on your computer.

• If you hear sound in the headphones: This tells us your tiny computer's audio output is working! The problem is definitely something specific with your speakers or their connection/settings. This is good news, as it narrows it down.
• If you don't hear sound in the headphones: Then the problem is deeper, possibly a setting within the computer's sound drivers or even a hardware issue.

The fact that you're getting pop-ups when you plug and unplug the audio jack means the computer is alive and detecting things. We just need to make sure you tell it the right thing and that it sticks.

Take your time and focus on those pop-up choices. Let me know exactly what the pop-up says and what options it gives you!

ME TO GEMINI:

Actually, yes to your earlier question: the speakers’ base lights are on.

GEMINI TO ME:

Ah, fantastic! That is excellent news!

Knowing the speaker base lights are on confirms one of the most critical things: Your speakers are definitely receiving power via the USB connection.

This is a huge step because it means we can now focus entirely on the sound signal (the round audio jack) and the computer's software settings. We don't need to worry about the USB power anymore.

What we know now:

• Your speakers are powered ON (green lights confirm this).
• Your tiny computer has two uncolored audio holes.
• Plugging/unplugging causes a pop-up.
• You've tried selecting "powered speakers" previously.
• Still no sound.

Let's zero in on the remaining possibilities. This will be very targeted:

Step 1: The "Right" Audio Hole and Pop-up Choice (Crucial)

We need to make sure the audio jack is in the correct hole, and that you've told the computer it's for "speakers."

1. Look closely at the back of your tiny computer again, at the two round holes.

• Are there any symbols, no matter how tiny, next to either of them? Look for a headphone symbol (like an ear with a line over it) or a speaker symbol. Even if uncolored, sometimes there's a symbol.
• If you find one, that's your speaker output hole.
• If no symbols at all: We'll just have to try one and then the other.

1. Take your speaker's round audio plug.
2. Plug it FIRMLY into the FIRST of the two holes.
3. IMMEDIATELY look at your screen for a pop-up.

• If a pop-up appears, what exactly does it say? Write down the exact wording if you can.
• It will likely give you options. You must select the option that means sound output for speakers. This could be:
• "Speakers"
• "Headphones"
• "Line Out"
• "Powered Speakers" (as you saw before)
• Do NOT select "Microphone" or "Line In."
• Confirm any "double pop-up" notices that follow (usually asking "Are you sure?" or "Ok").

1. Now, without touching anything else, proceed to Step 2.

Step 2: Re-Confirm Computer's Sound Setting (Immediately after Step 1)

Even if you made a choice in the pop-up, we need to ensure the computer actually switched its main sound output to your speakers.

1. Look at the very bottom right corner of your computer screen.
2. Click on the small speaker icon ONE time.
3. A small box will pop up. At the very top, there's usually a name for the currently selected sound output.
4. Click on the little arrow next to that name.
5. A list will appear. Look for an option that seems to match your selection from the pop-up, or refers to your computer's built-in sound. It will likely be something like:

• "Speakers"
• "Realtek Audio"
• "High Definition Audio Device"
• Make absolutely sure it's NOT set to "HDMI," "Digital Audio," or "Monitor."

1. Click on the correct "Speakers" option.
2. Turn up your computer's volume all the way.
3. Try playing music or a video again.

Step 3: If Still No Sound (Try the Other Hole)

If after Step 1 and Step 2, you still have no sound, then the first hole was likely the wrong one.

1. Pull your speaker's round audio plug out of the current hole.
2. Plug it FIRMLY into the other of the two holes.
3. Again, IMMEDIATELY look at your screen for a pop-up.

• Select the "Speakers" / "Headphones" / "Line Out" / "Powered Speakers" option.
• Confirm any double pop-ups.

1. Go back to Step 2 and re-confirm the computer's sound setting.
2. Try playing sound.

Step 4: Final Headphone Test (If still no sound from speakers after trying both holes)

This will tell us if your computer can make sound at all.

1. Plug your headphones into the hole that you last tried for your speakers (the one where you selected "Speakers" or "Headphones" from the pop-up).
2. Play some music or a video on your computer.

• If you hear sound in the headphones: This is the most likely scenario. It means your computer's sound is working, and the problem is now narrowed down to a very specific incompatibility or fault with your speakers themselves, even though they have power. This would mean they might need to be replaced, unfortunately.
• If you don't hear sound in the headphones: Then there might be a deeper issue with your computer's sound drivers or hardware.

The fact that the speaker lights are on is a huge relief. It tells us we're very close. The problem is now entirely about directing the sound from the computer to those powered speakers.

Let me know what happens with the pop-ups and the sound!

ME TO GEMINI:

Re your (1), my vision is not good enough to see, but I don’t think there’s any symbols.

GEMINI TO ME:

Okay, got it. No symbols is perfectly fine, we'll just proceed by trying each hole systematically. Your vision shouldn't be a barrier here!

The most important thing is that when you plug in the round speaker jack, you get a pop-up and you select the correct option (Speakers/Headphones/Line Out/Powered Speakers).

Let's try this with absolute clarity, aiming for a resolution.

Crucial Information We Have:

• Your speakers are powered on (green lights confirm).
• Your tiny computer has exactly two uncolored, unsymbolized round audio holes.
• Plugging/unplugging causes a pop-up asking what you connected.

Here's the plan, step by very careful step:

Phase 1: Try Hole #1

1. Take your speaker's round audio plug.
2. Plug it FIRMLY into the FIRST of the two holes on your computer. Push it all the way in.
3. Immediately look at your screen for the pop-up.

• When the pop-up appears, you must select the option that means sound output for speakers.
• Look for "Speakers," "Headphones," "Line Out," or "Powered Speakers."
• Click on it.
• If a second confirmation pop-up appears (e.g., "Are you sure?", "OK"), click to confirm it.

1. Now, go straight to checking the computer's sound setting (Step A below).

Phase 2: Check Computer Sound Settings (Step A - always do this after any pop-up)

1. Look at the very bottom right corner of your computer screen.
2. Click on the small speaker icon ONE time.
3. A small box will pop up. At the very top, there's usually a name for the currently selected sound output.
4. Click on the little arrow next to that name.
5. A list will appear. You need to select the option that refers to your computer's built-in sound for external devices. It will likely be something like:

• "Speakers"
• "Realtek Audio"
• "High Definition Audio Device"
• Make absolutely sure it's NOT set to anything with "HDMI," "Digital Audio," or "Monitor."

1. Click on the correct "Speakers" option.
2. Turn up your computer's volume all the way (using the slider in that pop-up box).
3. Try playing some music or a video now.

If you hear sound: Excellent! You found the right hole and the right settings. You're done!

If you still hear NO sound after Phase 1 and Phase 2 (trying the first hole):

Phase 3: Try Hole #2 (The other one)

1. Pull your speaker's round audio plug out of the current hole.
2. Plug it FIRMLY into the other of the two holes. Push it all the way in.
3. Immediately look at your screen for the pop-up.

• When the pop-up appears, again, you must select the option that means sound output for speakers.
• Look for "Speakers," "Headphones," "Line Out," or "Powered Speakers."
• Click on it.
• If a second confirmation pop-up appears, click to confirm it.

1. Now, go straight to checking the computer's sound setting (Step B below).

Phase 4: Check Computer Sound Settings (Step B - again, always do this after any pop-up)

1. Look at the very bottom right corner of your computer screen.
2. Click on the small speaker icon ONE time.
3. A small box will pop up. At the very top, there's usually a name for the currently selected sound output.
4. Click on the little arrow next to that name.
5. A list will appear. You need to select the option that refers to your computer's built-in sound for external devices. It will likely be something like:

• "Speakers"
• "Realtek Audio"
• "High Definition Audio Device"
• Make absolutely sure it's NOT set to anything with "HDMI," "Digital Audio," or "Monitor."

1. Click on the correct "Speakers" option.
2. Turn up your computer's volume all the way.
3. Try playing some music or a video now.

If you hear sound: Fantastic! You've successfully debugged it.

If you still hear NO sound after trying BOTH holes and re-checking settings each time:

Phase 5: The Headphone Test (Our final diagnostic)

1. Grab any pair of headphones (with a standard round plug).
2. Plug your headphones into the hole where you last tried your speakers (the one where you selected "Speakers" or "Headphones" from the pop-up).
3. Play some music or a video on your computer.

• If you hear sound in the headphones: This is the most likely outcome. It means your computer is able to produce sound, and the problem is specifically with your speakers themselves. Even though they're powered on, their audio input might have become faulty. In this case, new speakers would likely be the solution.
• If you don't hear sound in the headphones: This is less likely but possible. It would mean there's a deeper problem with your tiny computer's sound system itself (e.g., a driver issue, or a hardware fault that the IT guy somehow triggered). This would likely require professional help.

I know this is a lot of back and forth, but your clear description of the "tiny computer" and the pop-ups means we're dealing with a system that's trying to help, we just need to guide it correctly. The key is making the right choice in that pop-up and ensuring the computer's main sound setting matches.

Please let me know what happens during these phases!

ME TO GEMINI:

They both result in a pop-up saying, "You just plugged in ETC". Both holes appear to be audio jack points. But a further window giving the option to select what type of device no longer appears. I tried re-plugging, and then in the other hole again, to get it to re-appear, but nothing. And still no sound.

GEMINI TO ME:

Ah, okay, this is a new and critical piece of information. The pop-up saying "You just plugged in ETC" is good, but the lack of the follow-up window with options (like "Speakers," "Headphones," etc.) is the problem.

This means your computer is detecting the plug, but it's not prompting you to tell it what kind of device it is, or it's remembering a previous (possibly incorrect) choice for that port and not giving you the chance to change it.

This is a common behavior with audio managers (like Realtek Audio Manager) that handle these "smart" audio jacks. It can be frustrating.

Our New Strategy: Force the Computer to Re-ask for the device type.

We need to dive a tiny bit into the computer's sound settings to find the "audio manager" and tell it to forget its previous choice or to force a new selection.

Before we start, let's try a full, fresh restart of the computer. Sometimes this can clear temporary settings and make the pop-up reappear.

1. Save any open work and close all programs.
2. Go to Start (Windows icon in bottom left).
3. Click Power.
4. Select "Restart."
5. Once it's fully restarted, with nothing plugged into either audio hole, try plugging your speaker's round audio jack into one of the holes again. See if the option window reappears.

• If it reappears: GREAT! Select "Speakers" or "Powered Speakers" and then try playing sound.
• If it doesn't reappear: Proceed with the steps below.

If the restart didn't bring back the options window, we'll try to find the audio manager directly:

Step 1: Find the Audio Manager Application

Your tiny computer likely has a special program that controls those audio jacks. It's usually called something like "Realtek Audio Console," "Realtek Audio Manager," or similar.

1. Look in your system tray (bottom-right of screen, near the clock):

• You might see an orange-ish speaker icon (often stylized, not the standard Windows one). Or maybe a gray-blue one. This is often the Realtek Audio Manager icon.
• Right-click on it. See if there's an option like "Sound Manager," "Audio Console," or "Open Realtek HD Audio Manager."

1. If you don't see it there, let's search for it:

• Click on the Start Menu (Windows icon in bottom left).
• Type "Realtek" (without quotes) into the search bar.
• Look for applications named "Realtek Audio Console," "Realtek Audio Manager," "Realtek HD Audio Manager," or similar.
• Click on it to open it.

Step 2: Force Re-Detection in the Audio Manager

Once you open the Realtek/Audio Manager program, it will look different depending on your computer's exact model, but the goal is the same:

1. Look for a section related to "Connector Settings," "Jack Information," or "Analog."
2. You're looking for a setting that might say something like:

• "Enable front panel jack detection" (even if your jacks are on the back, this setting can sometimes affect all of them).
• A small wrench icon or a gear icon next to the audio jack pictures.
• An option to "Disable front panel jack detection" (you might try unchecking it and then re-checking it, or vice versa, to force a reset).
• There might be a picture of the audio jacks. Try clicking directly on the picture of the jack where your speakers are plugged in. Sometimes this brings up the options menu.

1. What you are specifically trying to find is a setting that will allow you to manually select the device type for each port, or to force the "What did you just plug in?" pop-up to reappear.

• You might see a little yellow folder icon near the audio jack pictures; clicking this sometimes brings up general settings.

Step 3: Once you find the setting to assign the device type:

1. With your speakers plugged into one of the holes, use the audio manager to explicitly tell that port it's connected to "Speakers" or "Headphones."
2. Then, immediately perform Step 2 from my previous instructions (Re-Confirm Computer's Sound Setting):

• Click the speaker icon in the bottom-right of your screen.
• Click the arrow next to the output device.
• Select "Speakers," "Realtek Audio," or "High Definition Audio Device."
• Turn up the volume.
• Try playing sound.

This is probably the most technical step we've had to do, but it's essential because the computer isn't giving us the direct option anymore.

If you can't find "Realtek Audio Console" or similar, or you get into it but can't find the specific settings I mentioned, please describe what you see in the program, or what options are available. Screenshots (if you're able to take one by pressing the "Print Screen" key and pasting into an email or document) would be incredibly helpful, but if not, detailed descriptions are great!

ME TO GEMINI:

Re your Step 2: The box popped up automatically and said, "Headphones" but then disappeared again. There is no arrow beside it.

GEMINI TO ME:

Okay, this is incredibly valuable information!

The fact that the box popped up and briefly showed "Headphones" means:

1. Your computer detects something is plugged in.
2. It's automatically assigning it as "Headphones."
3. Because it disappears quickly and there's no arrow, it means it's not giving you the chance to change that automatic assignment easily.

This is the core of the problem. Your computer thinks you've plugged in headphones, not speakers, and it's sticking to that choice. This is often why sound isn't coming out of your speakers, even if they have power and are physically connected.

Our New Plan: Find a way to change that "Headphones" assignment to "Speakers."

Since the pop-up isn't giving you an arrow, we need to go a slightly different route to access the sound settings more permanently.

Step 1: Access Deeper Sound Settings

1. Look at the very bottom right corner of your computer screen.
2. Right-click (the other mouse button) on the small speaker icon.
3. A menu will appear. You want to select:

• "Sound settings" (if you have Windows 10/11)
• "Sounds" (if you have an older version of Windows, this usually opens a window with tabs like Playback, Recording, Sounds).

Step 2: Check Output Device and Test

Once you're in the Sound Settings window:

• If you see "Sound settings" (Windows 10/11):

1. Look for a section called "Output."
2. Under "Output," you should see a dropdown menu. Click on this dropdown menu.
3. A list of devices will appear. Look for options like:

• "Speakers (Realtek Audio)"
• "Headphones (Realtek Audio)"
• "High Definition Audio Device"
• (Crucially, avoid anything with "HDMI" or your monitor's name).

1. You want to select "Speakers" or "High Definition Audio Device." If "Headphones" is currently selected, switch it to "Speakers."
2. Below this, you should see a "Master volume" slider. Make sure it's turned up.
3. There might also be a "Test" button. Click it. Do you hear any test tones from your speakers?

• If you see "Sounds" (older Windows, or if "Sound settings" opened a classic window):

1. This will open a small window. Click on the "Playback" tab at the top.
2. You'll see a list of playback devices.
3. Look for:

• "Speakers (Realtek Audio)"
• "Headphones (Realtek Audio)"
• "High Definition Audio Device"

1. Right-click on the device that says "Speakers" or "High Definition Audio Device."
2. Select "Set as Default Device." (This is crucial if it's not already default).
3. Click on that "Speakers" device once to highlight it, then click the "Test" button at the bottom right. Do you hear any test tones?

Step 3: Test Playing Sound

After making these changes in the sound settings, close the window, ensure your computer's volume is up (using the speaker icon in the bottom right), and then try playing music or a video again.

If "Speakers" is greyed out or doesn't appear as an option:

This would be a bigger issue, meaning the computer isn't recognizing your speakers as a speaker device, only as headphones. In that case, we might need to look for a specific Realtek (or other sound card) control panel, as we discussed previously, to manually override the port assignment.

But let's try these specific steps for deeper sound settings first. This is usually where you can change the default output device.

Let me know what options you see in the sound settings and what happens when you try to select/test "Speakers"!

I pulled out speaker jack and tried headphones. No sound through them either.

Okay, this is critical information!

If you're getting no sound through the headphones when plugged into either of those two audio jacks, it tells us that the problem is NOT just with your speakers.

It means your "tiny computer" itself is currently not producing any sound output through its audio jacks. This is a much more significant issue than just a speaker connection.

What this means:

• Your speakers being powered on is good, but irrelevant if the computer isn't sending any sound signal.
• The "You just plugged in ETC" pop-up means the computer's detecting the connection, but the lack of sound even with headphones means the output signal itself is blocked or not working.
• This points to a software problem (like drivers) or potentially a hardware problem with the computer's audio chip or jacks, possibly triggered by whatever the IT guy did.

Our Next Steps: Focus on the Computer's Sound System/Drivers.

Since you're not technical, we'll try the simplest, most common software fix first.

Step 1: Check Device Manager (This sounds technical, but I'll guide you simply)

We need to check if your computer's sound card is recognized and working correctly.

1. Right-click on the Start Button (the Windows logo in the bottom-left corner of your screen).
2. A menu will pop up. Look for "Device Manager" and click on it.
3. A new window called "Device Manager" will open.
4. In this window, look for a section called "Sound, video and game controllers." Click the little arrow next to it to expand the list.
5. What do you see listed there?

• You should see something like "Realtek High Definition Audio," "Intel Display Audio," or "High Definition Audio Device."
• Look carefully for any yellow exclamation marks (!) or red 'X's next to any of these entries.
• If you see a yellow (!) or red (X): This is a problem! It means the audio driver is faulty, disabled, or not installed correctly.
• If you see no (!) or (X): That's good, it suggests the driver is at least trying to work.

Step 2: Reinstall/Update Audio Driver (If there's a problem, or just to try a refresh)

If you found a (!) or (X) in Device Manager:

1. Right-click on the problematic entry (e.g., "Realtek High Definition Audio" with the yellow !).
2. Select "Uninstall device."
3. DO NOT check "Delete the driver software for this device." Just click "Uninstall."
4. Once it's uninstalled, restart your computer. Windows will usually try to automatically reinstall a generic audio driver during the restart.

If there was NO (!) or (X) in Device Manager, but you still want to try a refresh:

1. Right-click on your main audio device (e.g., "Realtek High Definition Audio").
2. Select "Update driver."
3. Choose "Search automatically for drivers." Let it run.

• If it finds one, install it and restart.
• If it says "The best drivers for your device are already installed," then this path might not help.

Step 3: After Restart (or driver update):

1. Plug your headphones into one of the audio jacks.
2. Does the "You just plugged in ETC" pop-up still appear?
3. Try playing some music/video. Do you hear sound in the headphones now?
4. If yes to headphones: Then swap back to your speakers, plug them into the same jack, make sure the computer's general volume is up, and see if they work.
5. If still no sound in headphones: We need to consider that the IT guy may have accidentally disabled the audio hardware in the computer's BIOS/UEFI settings (less likely, but possible), or there's a deeper software conflict.

This is a bit more involved, but the headphone test definitively tells us the issue is with the computer's audio system, not just the speakers. Let me know what you find in "Device Manager" – especially if you see any exclamation marks or red crosses!

ME TO GEMINI:

Scrolling back through everything you’ve typed to me, I can’t possibly absorb all this. It’s too much. Too much to read and too much for my brain to process.

GEMINI TO ME:

Oh, I am so incredibly sorry. That's absolutely my fault for overwhelming you. My intention was to be thorough, but I've clearly crossed the line into being confusing and frustrating. Please accept my sincerest apologies.

You're right, we need to simplify drastically. Forget all the previous steps and complex terms. Let's start almost completely fresh, focusing on just one or two things at a time, very slowly.

My apologies again. Let's make this manageable.

Here's the new plan, SUPER SIMPLE, just one action at a time:

Problem: No sound from speakers, no sound from headphones. Clue: The IT guy was working in the back.

STEP 1: RESTART YOUR COMPUTER (The simplest, safest first step)

1. Save anything you're working on and close all your programs.
2. Click the Start button (the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner of your screen).
3. Click the Power button (it looks like a circle with a line sticking up).
4. Click "Restart."
5. Wait for your computer to fully turn off and then turn back on. Log in normally.

Don't plug in anything yet. Just restart the computer.

STEP 2: TEST WITH HEADPHONES AGAIN (The quickest way to check if the restart helped)

1. Once your computer is fully back on, find any pair of headphones (the ones with the round plug).
2. Plug your headphones FIRMLY into just ONE of the two round holes on your computer.
3. Immediately after plugging them in, look at your screen. Does a small box pop up and then quickly disappear (like the "Headphones" one you saw before)?

• If YES: That's okay, it's just detecting it.
• If NO: That's also okay for now.

1. Open a simple video or some music (e.g., a YouTube video, or a music app).
2. Listen carefully through the headphones.

• Do you hear ANY sound at all through the headphones?

Please just tell me the answer to that last question: "Do you hear ANY sound at all through the headphones after the restart?"

Don't worry about anything else right now. Just the restart and the headphone test.

Your answer to that one question will tell me exactly what we need to try next, in the simplest possible way.

ME TO GEMINI:

Your Step 1: I already did a restart. It didn’t change a thing. I tested with headphones; both holes. Nothing. The only box that pops up, does so when I pull out something, and says: “You just pulled out an audio device from the audio jack.”

GEMINI TO ME:

Okay, thank you. That is crystal clear, and it narrows things down significantly.

The fact that:

1. A restart didn't help.
2. No sound from headphones in either hole.
3. The only pop-up is when you unplug something.

...tells us the computer's sound system itself is not working. It's not a matter of the wrong plug or wrong selection anymore. The computer is simply not sending any audio signal out.

This is often caused by a problem with the audio driver (the special software that tells your computer how to use its sound card). It's possible the IT guy accidentally disabled it or corrupted it.

We are now going to try the absolute simplest way to fix a common audio driver problem. It only involves a few clicks.

Goal: Tell your computer to "forget" its current audio setup and try again.

STEP 1: OPEN DEVICE MANAGER (where your computer keeps track of all its parts)

1. Find the Windows logo (Start button) in the very bottom-left corner of your screen.
2. Right-click on that Windows logo. (Use the other mouse button, not the one you normally click with).
3. A menu will pop up. Look for "Device Manager" in this list. It might be about halfway down.
4. Click on "Device Manager."

• A new window will open. It will have a lot of categories. Don't worry about most of them.

STEP 2: FIND YOUR SOUND CARD (the part of your computer that makes sound)

1. In the "Device Manager" window, look for a category called "Sound, video and game controllers."
2. Click on the small arrow next to "Sound, video and game controllers" to expand it.
3. You will see one or two things listed underneath. One of them will be your sound card. It will likely say something like:

• "Realtek High Definition Audio"
• "High Definition Audio Device"
• (It might also have "Intel Display Audio," but we are looking for the one that sounds like your main sound card).

STEP 3: UNINSTALL THE SOUND CARD (This is safe, don't worry)

1. Right-click on the "Realtek High Definition Audio" (or similar) entry you found in Step 2.
2. A small menu will appear. Look for "Uninstall device" (it's usually near the bottom).
3. Click on "Uninstall device."
4. A small box will pop up asking to confirm. IMPORTANT: Make sure the box that says "Delete the driver software for this device" is NOT checked. Just leave it unchecked.
5. Click "Uninstall."

• The entry for your sound card will disappear from the list. This is normal.

STEP 4: RESTART YOUR COMPUTER (to force it to fix itself)

1. Close the "Device Manager" window.
2. Click the Start button (Windows logo).
3. Click the Power button.
4. Click "Restart."
5. Let your computer restart completely. It will automatically try to reinstall the sound driver as it restarts.

STEP 5: TEST FOR SOUND AGAIN (The moment of truth!)

1. Once your computer is fully back on and you've logged in, plug your headphones firmly into one of the audio holes.
2. Open a simple video or some music.
3. Listen carefully through the headphones.

• Do you hear ANY sound now?

This process often fixes audio issues caused by corrupted or confused drivers. I've tried to break it down into the most minimal steps possible. Please take your time, go through each point slowly, and let me know if you hear sound after Step 5.

ME TO GEMINI:

My options are FOX (my external microphone, I’m guessing); the Intel Display name you mention; Synaptics HD Audio; Webcam C170”.

GEMINI TO ME:

Okay, that list of options is extremely helpful!

"Synaptics HD Audio" is almost certainly your computer's main sound card, the one that controls the audio jacks. The others are for specific devices (external mic, monitor's audio if connected via HDMI, webcam's mic).

So, we found the right component!

Let's proceed with the steps, targeting "Synaptics HD Audio":

Goal: Tell your computer to "forget" its current audio setup and try again.

STEP 1: OPEN DEVICE MANAGER (You're already there, which is great!)

• You've already got the "Device Manager" window open and have expanded "Sound, video and game controllers."

STEP 2: UNINSTALL THE SOUND CARD (Targeting Synaptics HD Audio)

1. In the list under "Sound, video and game controllers," find "Synaptics HD Audio."
2. Right-click on "Synaptics HD Audio."
3. A small menu will appear. Look for "Uninstall device" (it's usually near the bottom).
4. Click on "Uninstall device."
5. A small box will pop up asking to confirm. IMPORTANT: Make sure the box that says "Delete the driver software for this device" is NOT checked. Just leave it unchecked.
6. Click "Uninstall."

• The entry for "Synaptics HD Audio" will disappear from the list. This is normal.

STEP 3: RESTART YOUR COMPUTER (to force it to fix itself)

1. Close the "Device Manager" window.
2. Click the Start button (Windows logo in bottom-left).
3. Click the Power button (circle with a line).
4. Click "Restart."
5. Let your computer restart completely. It will automatically try to reinstall the "Synaptics HD Audio" driver during this restart.

STEP 4: TEST FOR SOUND AGAIN (The moment of truth!)

1. Once your computer is fully back on and you've logged in, plug your headphones firmly into one of the audio holes.
2. Open a simple video or some music.
3. Listen carefully through the headphones.

• Do you hear ANY sound now?

This is the most direct way to tackle a potentially confused sound driver. You're doing great following these instructions. Let me know what happens after you've uninstalled "Synaptics HD Audio" and restarted!

ME TO GEMINI:

I've done all that and there's still no sound through either the headphones or the speakers.

GEMINI TO ME:

Oh, this is incredibly persistent and frustrating. My sincere apologies that these steps haven't worked yet.

The fact that uninstalling and reinstalling the Synaptics driver didn't bring back sound, even for headphones, is a strong indication of one of two things:

1. A deeper driver issue: Windows might be installing a generic driver, but not the correct one specifically for your tiny computer's Synaptics hardware.
2. Hardware problem: Less likely since the jacks detect when you plug/unplug, but possible that the audio output chip itself has failed, or there's an internal physical disconnection, possibly related to what the IT guy was doing.
3. BIOS/UEFI setting: Very rare, but sometimes audio can be disabled in the computer's deepest settings (BIOS/UEFI).

Since you mentioned you're not technical, and getting into BIOS or manually tracking down very specific drivers can be complex and risky, we've exhausted the most common and simplest troubleshooting steps that can be done remotely.

What this means:

At this point, you have two main options:

Option A: Contact the IT Guy (Highly Recommended First Step)

• Since he was the last one to touch your equipment, and the problem appeared immediately after he left, he is the most responsible and best person to fix this.
• Explain exactly what you've tried (restarting, testing headphones, uninstalling/reinstalling "Synaptics HD Audio" via Device Manager) and that there's still no sound from any audio output.
• Tell him it's highly likely he caused something to be disconnected or misconfigured when he was "in the cords area," or that he's triggered a driver issue.
• He should be able to diagnose and fix this quickly, especially since he's familiar with your setup. He might need to install a specific driver package for your mini-PC model, or check deeper settings.

Option B: Take it to a local computer repair shop.

• If the original IT guy is unavailable or unwilling to help, a local computer technician can physically inspect your device and run more advanced diagnostics.
• They would check for the same things (drivers, hardware issues, BIOS settings) but with direct access to the physical machine and their own tools.

I know this isn't the easy fix you were hoping for, and I'm truly sorry we couldn't resolve it through our troubleshooting. The lack of sound even with headphones after a driver refresh is a strong indicator that it's beyond a simple plug-and-play solution.

Please reach out to that IT guy immediately. He needs to make this right.