When installing a new sound card, if no sound is heard, what is the recommended first step?

When installing a new sound card and encountering no sound, the recommended first step is to check the vendor's website for an updated driver. This is crucial because sound cards often require specific drivers to function correctly with the operating system and other software.

Manufacturers may provide updated drivers that fix bugs, improve performance, or enhance compatibility with the latest operating systems. Without the correct or updated drivers, the sound card may not function properly, leading to issues like no sound output.

This step is a logical and efficient troubleshooting action, allowing you to address a common issue that can be easily resolved without needing to resort to more drastic measures like reinstalling the operating system or replacing the hardware. Other steps, such as testing with different speakers or replacing the sound card, may come later if the driver update does not resolve the problem.