Integrated Mic Array Problem

Saw the problem here while looking for something else.  Worked @ Dell for 10 years.  Simple answer to this that I did not see posted:

1. Start
2. Control Panel
3. Sound
4. "Recording" tab
5. Right click on any recording device displayed
6. Click "Show Disabled Devices"
7. "Microphone Array" should appear
8. Right click on "Microphone Array"
9. Enable the device
10. On the "Set Default" button, click "Default Device"

You should then see the green audio level readout on the right picking up sounds.  Try a loud sound, like clapping, if you do not get any green bars.  You should see at least one green bar.  If you don't, it is most likely muted or not amplified enough.  To rectify, follow these instructions:

1. Right click on Microphone Array
2. Left click on Properties
3. Click the "levels" tab
4. Check the button with a speaker icon.  If it has a red (/) sign, click on the button once to unmute.
5. Turn Microphone Array up to around 80
6. You may need to boost the microphone to +10dB
7. Select "Okay"
8. Now check out the level readout and see if you are getting a strong signal
9. If not, you should repeat this section and turn the volume up and/or the microphone boost until the green bars are reading somewhere in the middle of the display when speaking in a normal voice.

This should resolve your issue.  If not, write back with details.

Peace