HELP! I have been talking to my family in Australia every week on Skype for the past five years, with no problems. Suddenly, I can't get any sound as it keeps saying "sound card not detected". I have followed all the instructions that Skype offers but still can't get sound. I have uninstalled it twice and installed it again and it works for about five minutes and then I get the same message and I have to call them on the phone. My other son here has no trouble on his Skype when he contacts Australia. Kind regards, Geisha girl.
Sound Cards can wear out with heavy usage and it seems as though an in-built condenser is failing. If you feel confident (and there are web sites that provide guidance) replace the sound card, but do a thorough troubleshooting test first.