There are several reasons why a sound card may no longer be detected after restarting Windows.
1) Outdated Drivers: If the computer’s sound card drivers are out of date, the device may no longer be recognized by the operating system after restarting Windows. Solution: Update the sound card’s drivers to the latest version available from the manufacturer’s website.
2) Damaged and Corrupted Audio Drivers: Damaged or corrupted audio drivers can prevent the sound card from being properly initiated when restarting Windows. Solution: Uninstall and reinstall the sound card’s drivers to ensure they are up to date and functioning correctly.
3) Power Supply Issues: A faulty or insufficient power supply may cause the sound card to not be recognized after restarting Windows. Solution: Check the power supply for any visible signs of damage, or replace it with another one.
4) Outdated Firmware: Over time, the firmware of a sound card can become outdated and incompatible with the operating system. Solution: Upgrade the sound card’s firmware to the latest version available from the manufacturer’s website.
5) Hardware Malfunctions: Certain hardware malfunctions can cause the sound card to not be detected after restarting Windows. Solution: Try resetting the BIOS settings, reinstalling the BIOS, and replacing the card if all else fails.
6) Loose Connections: Loose connections between the sound card and other components may prevent it from being detected after restarting Windows. Solution: Check all cabling and connections associated with the sound card and ensure that they are secure.
7) System Conflicts: A conflict between the operating system and other installed software, or an issue with the motherboard itself, can cause the sound card to not be recognized after restarting Windows. Solution: Run a system scan to identify any potential conflicts, and update the motherboard’s drivers if necessary.
By thoroughly troubleshooting each of these potential causes, it should be possible to identify the root cause of the problem and resolve it. However, if all else fails, then it may be time to call in a professional to have the sound card evaluated and serviced.