Skip to Content

Why is Skype Sound Not Working with a Second Monitor?

Why is Skype Sound Not Working with a Second Monitor?

It’s hard to manage all of your applications on one screen. Adding another screen will ease the burden of flipping from window to window. It’s even better to handle your Skype contacts and calls on a different screen. But your second monitor will be no help if the sound is not working. Here’s why and what to do.

Skype was once the most popular Voice Over IP (VoIP) communication application. Acquired by Microsoft in 2011, this application works excellently at connecting loved ones over the internet. Skype allows you to communicate using video and voice in real-time.

Understandably, those working or studying from home can find value in dual monitors. Using an external monitor with your laptop can give you more room to manage your Skype communications.

However, it is frustrating when you are having trouble with the sound on your external monitor. Let’s dive into why your Skype sound might not be working on a second monitor.

Does Skype Tell You When Someone Is Recording?

Diagnose hardware audio issues

check audio settings

Most importantly, check the monitor and computer to rule out a hardware issue. Start by:

  1. Check your second monitor’s sound.
    1. Go into your system’s settings and click sounds. Ensure that your volume is not down or on mute.
  2. Check the original computer or laptop’s sound.
    1. Go into your system’s settings and click sounds on the original device. Ensure that the output device is your second monitor.
    1. Then check the volume and mute settings.
  3. Confirm speakers and headphones are working
    1. Use another device to establish sound on the speakers or headphones.
  4. Verify the cable connection.
    1. The HDMI cable connection should be secure. If you have another HDMI cord, try to use that one.
    1. If you are using a VGA cable, you must connect the cable from the AUDIO/LINE/HEADPHONE OUT port on the original device to the AUDIO/LINE IN on your second monitor. Try another VGA cable if you have one on hand.
  5. Establish sound on the second monitor.
    1. Verify that sound is working on your second monitor by creating sound. Try to play music.
  6. Update audio drivers
    1. In the taskbar search box, type Device Manager > click Device Manager > select a category to see your devices > right click on the device you’d like to update.
    1. Search for updated driver software > select Update Driver
  7. Reinstall audio drivers
    1. In the taskbar search box, type Device Manager > click Device Manager > select a category to see your devices > right click on the device you’d like to uninstall.
    1. Restart your computer > your device to reinstall automatically.

As a result of a hardware issue, your second monitor should be working. However, you might still have sound problems. Then it is safe to say the problem is within Skype.

Skype sound not working on second monitor

Unfortunately, your issues seem to come from Skype. Start troubleshooting skype by:

  • Use the correct audio device
    • Open Skype > tap the three dots next to your profile name and click Settings.

Click Audio/Video

Under Audio, click the down arrow and select your audio device.

  • Try a test call
    • While in Audio/Video settings, click Make a free test call
      • If you can hear your message, the problem might be the other person’s device.
  • Make sure Skype has permission
    • You must grant Skype permission to use your microphone and camera.
    • Your Skype toggle should be on in your privacy settings.
  • Check connectivity issues
    • To use Skype correctly, you must have a strong internet connection.
    • Try switching to a wired connection.
    • Close any applications that could be causing interference.
  • Uninstall Skype
    • Open Control Panel > click Programs then Uninstall Skype
    • Next Open File Explorer > click This PC and go to this path C:\Users\YOURUSERNAME\AppData\Roaming 

Open the Skype folder > right-click the XML file > click Delete

skype call

Final Words

In brief, using your second monitor for Skype calls while you work is very smart. You won’t lose your place with work or homework. This will help keep you on track. Hopefully, these troubleshooting tips were able to help you fix your sound issue. And you’ll be communicating with your loved ones and colleagues again soon.

Author

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *