Microphone is Not Working

Environment

Microphone

Issue

Troubleshooting microphone issues

Resolution

The following tips have been useful for troubleshooting microphone issues.

Troubleshooting General Microphone Issue

  • If the problem resides in the browser (such as Google Meets) clear browsing history, cookies, and cache for all time.
  • Go to the device's settings to see if your microphone is enabled.
    • Make sure you properly set up your microphone in Windows and select the audio input you want on Mac.
  • Make sure other software isn't competing for access to your microphone and close them.
    • For example, BlueJeans takes over the audio on the computer and other apps such as Zoom and Skype that use the microphone won't work.
  • Go into your device's app settings and ensure Zoom has permission to access your microphone.
  • If you're using Windows, go into the Device Manager to ensure the microphone drivers are up-to-date.
  • Check the website of the computer and/or microphone manufacturer and look for newer drivers to install.
  • Reboot your device to close any processes that might be interfering with hardware or software.
  • Mute other nearby audio devices.
    • If you hear an echo, your microphone might be picking up the audio from another source, like a TV or speaker.
    • Tip:To avoid hearing an echo in Zoom, everyone should mute their microphone when not speaking.
  • Make sure your microphone is connected and turned on.
    • If using an external microphone, examine the connecting cable, or check your Bluetooth settings if using a wireless microphone.
    • For wired microphones, try plugging it into a different USB port.
    • For Bluetooth devices, make sure the battery is charged.

Instructions for Microphone Not Working in Zoom

  • Select Join Audio.
    • Zoom usually requests access to your microphone before you join a meeting, but in case you missed it, you can select Join Audio at the bottom of the Zoom window.
  • Make sure you're not muted in Zoom.
    • If the microphone icon has a line through it in your Zoom window, select the Sound icon to unmute yourself.
  • Make sure your microphone is selected in Zoom.
    • During a meeting, select the up arrow next to the Microphone icon and make sure the desired microphone is chosen.
      • Tip: If other people can hear you, but you can't hear them, make sure the right speaker is chosen under Select a Speaker.
  • If you think the person hosting the meeting muted you, send them a message in chat and ask to be unmuted.
  • Adjust Zoom's Advanced Audio Settings.
    • Zoom offers advanced tools to improve audio playback, but they can sometimes have the opposite effect.
    • If you have ongoing audio problems with your microphone, open Zoom while not in a meeting and select the Settings gear, then choose the Audio tab and select Advanced to change these options.
  • Reinstall Zoom.

Additional Information

Need additional information or assistance? Contact the ITS Service Center.

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