go into start, accesories, entertainment, Volume control. check that the mic isn't muted or turned down. click options, properties, and click the recording radio button and then ok. make sure the the checkbox under the mic slider is selected. also go into control panel and find the sound options, go to the audio tab and make sure that the recording drop down box is set to the soundcard and not the webcam mic. I've had that problem in the past.