11/95

SOUND BLASTER AND SOUND BLASTER+CD ROM PROBLEMS:

Problem:
ERROR MESSAGE:  Incorrect DOS Version
__________

Symptom:

When MSCDEX.EXE attempts to load for the CD-ROM drive, the Error Message
"Incorrect DOS Version" is encountered.
__________

Solution:

MS-DOS 6.x shipped with a new version of the MSCDEX CD-ROM driver.  Previous
versions of MSCDEX will not work with MS-DOS 6.x.  This error may be corrected
by changing a line in the AUTOEXEC.BAT file.  Using a text editor, change the
path of the MSCDEX statement to point to the MS-DOS directory.
__________

Detailed Directions:

Go to a DOS Prompt
Type:  CD\
Type:  EDIT AUTOEXEC.BAT
Look for the line that loads MSCDEX.EXE.  For example:

  C:\SBCD\MSCDEX.EXE /V /D:MSCD001 /M:15

  or

  C:\SBPRO\DRV\MSCDEX.EXE /V /D:MSCD001 /M:15

  or

  C:\SB16\DRV\MSCDEX.EXE /V /D:MSCD001 /M:15

Move down to the MSCDEX line, position the cursor on the C at the beginning of
the line, and delete everything up to, but not including, the M in MSCDEX.
The line should now read:

  MSCDEX.EXE /V /D:MSCD001 /M:15

Position the cursor under the M in MSCDEX, and type:  C:\DOS\

The line should now read:

  C:\DOS\MSCDEX.EXE /V /D:MSCD001 /M:15

In the upper left hand corner of the text editor, select: FILE

Select: SAVE

Select FILE again

Select EXIT

Once back at a DOS prompt, reboot the computer for the changes to
take effect.  The CD-ROM drive will now be operational.

__________

Important Note:

The above directions assume a default installation of MS-DOS and the CD-ROM
software.  If the drive DOS or the CD-ROM software is installed on, or the
directory the software is installed to is not the default, make the
appropriate changes to the directions above (i.e., instead of installing DOS
on drive C in a directory called DOS, the software was installed to D drive
in a directory called DOS6 or some other variation.)
__________

If the above steps do not resolve the error, it may be necessary to contact
our Technical Support Service by voice.  The Technical Support Center is open
from 8am to 10pm CST, seven days a week.  Technical Support may be reached at
(405) 742-6622.  When calling the Technical Support Center, please have the
following information available, and preferably be at the computer with the
system turned on.

   1)  The version and publisher of the DOS being used.
   2)  The make and model of the computer system.
   3)  A list of the other cards and peripherels installed in the computer.
   4)  Copies of the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
   5)  A description of any error messages and when they occur.

With the above information available, our Technical Support Staff will be



Problem:
OMNI CD-ROM Drive Does Not Recognize a Sound Card as the Drive Controller
Interface
__________

Symptom:

When connecting an OMNI CD kit to the interface on a Sound Blaster Pro or
Sound Blaster 16 to control the drive the following Error Message is
encountered:

  "Interface Board or CD-ROM Drive not Ready"
__________

Solution:

Some OMNI CD-ROM kits come with two installation diskettes. One of the
installation diskettes should be used when using the interface card as the
controller, while the other diskette is for use when a Sound Blaster Pro or
Sound Blaster 16 is used as the drive controller.  Frequently, the cause of
the above Error Message is using the incorrect installation diskette for the
CD-ROM controller.  To determine if the cause of the error message is
incorrectly configured drivers, edit your CONFIG.SYS file and compare the
syntax of the CD-ROM driver to those listed below.

Correct syntax when using the CT-1810 interface card at defaults:

DEVICE=C:\SBCD\SBCD.SYS /P:250 /D:MSCD001 /T:2  /A:0

Correct syntax when using a Sound Blaster Pro or Sound Blaster 16 as the
CD-ROM controller when set at defaults:

DEVICE=C:\SB16\DRV\SBCD.SYS /P:220 /D:MSCD001 /A:0

The syntax of the driver statement in the CONFIG.SYS file should closely
match one of the examples above.  In the event the driver statement does
not correctly reflect the hardware settings for the CD-ROM controller in
use, re-install the driver using the correct installation diskette.
However, simply changing the driver statement in the CONFIG.SYS file
(** SEE DRIVER INFORMATION BELOW **) may also correct the error.  Once
the changes have been made and the system has been rebooted, the Error
Message should be resolved.
__________

If the above steps do not resolve the error, it may be necessary to contact
our Technical Support Service by voice.  The Technical Support Center is open
from 8am to 10pm CST, seven days a week.  Technical Support may be reached at
(405) 742-6622.  When calling the Technical Support Center, please have the
following information available, and preferably be at the computer with the
system turned on.

   1)  The version and publisher of the DOS being used.
   2)  The make and model of the computer system.
   3)  A list of the other cards and peripherels installed in the computer.
   4)  Copies of the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
   5)  A description of any error messages and when they occur.

With the above information available, our Technical Support Staff will be able
to offer further solutions.
__________

SBCD.SYS settings:

There are some SBCD.SYS parameters that can be edited.  To edit the
parameters, use any text editor.  The syntax of the SBCD.SYS entry in the
CONFIG.SYS file is:

DEVICE=\[path]\SBCD\SBCD.SYS /D:[device name] /P:[xxx] {/N:[x]}
  {/S:[mode][ID]} {/A} {/X:1} {/T:[x]}

The parameters are as follows:

Parameter    Description
______________________________________________________________________

/D:[device name]  Name of the CD-ROM drive; must be identical
    to the device name in the AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
    Default is /D:MSCD001.

/P:[xxx]   Base address used by your audio card.  XXX
    can be 220, 240, 260, or 280.  Factory
    default is 220.  When using CT-1810 interface
    card this value is either 250 or 260.  Factory
    default for the CT-1810 is 250.

/N:[x]    Number of CD-ROM drives connected.  X ranges
    from 1 to 4.  When adding this entry, it is
    important to specify the correct number
    because X determines the number of drives
    accessible.

/S:[mode][ID]   [mode] can be A (Auto), N (Normal), and D
    (Double Speed).  Default is Double Speed mode.

    For Auto mode, the transfer speed is dependent
    on the type of disc.  For data disc, the
    transfer speed is 300 K/sec.  For mixed mode
    CD containing audio and data, transfer speed is
    150 K/sec.  For Normal and Double mode,
    transfer speed regardless of the type of disc
    is 150 K/sec and 300 K/sec respectively.

    [ID] is the drive's ID number.  Value ranges
    from 0 to 3.  If it is specified after [mode],
    the setting for ID applies only to the drive
    specified by [ID].  For example, /S:A3 means
    only drive 3 is in auto mode.  If [ID] is
    omitted, the setting for [mode] is effective
    for all drives connected.  For example, /S:N
    means all connected drives are in Normal mode.

/A    Enables sound to be sent to both channels even
    when the application software sends it to one
    channel.

/X:1    Prevents the application from giving an error
    message when software eject is not available.
    This applies only when using CD-ROM drive
    model 521 or 523 as the first drive for
    daisy-chaining.

/T:[x]    Determines the type of interface the CD-ROM
    drive is connected to.  When connecting to
    the CT-1810 interface, the value of X should
    be 2.  When connecting to a Sound Blaster Pro
    or Sound Blaster 16, the value should be 1.
    The default is 1.
__________

MSCDEX.EXE Settings

Version 6.0 and 6.2 of MS-DOS ship with their own version of the MSCDEX.EXE
program.  When using version 6.0 or 6.2 of MS-DOS use the MSCDEX that was
included with DOS in place of the MSCDEX included with the CD-ROM drive.  Some
MSCDEX.EXE parameters can be edited.  To edit the paramters, use a text editor.
The syntax of the MSCDEX.EXE entry in the AUTOEXEC.BAT file is:

[drive]\[path]\MSCDEX.EXE /D:[device name] /L:[drive letter] {/E} {/M:[xx]}
   {/V} {/S}

The parameters are as follows:

Parameter    Description
______________________________________________________________________

/D:[device name]  Name of the CD-ROM drive as specified in the
    CONFIG.SYS.  Default is /D:MSCD001.

/L:[drive letter]  Drive assigned to the CD-ROM drive.  If this
    is not specified, the next available drive is
    used.

/E    Uses expanded memory, if available.  (This is
    only applicable to Expanded Memory Manager LIM
    version 3.2 or later.)

/M:[xx]    Specifies the number of buffers for temporary
    storage of the most recent data.  XX ranges
    from 2 to 30.  Each buffer uses about 2 KB or
    memory and specfying too many buffers may
    interfere with programs that have larger
    memory requirements.  The performance of your
    drive increases with the value of XX.

/V    Displays a summary of the RAM allocation and
    expanded memory usage at boot up.

/S    Allows sharing of CD-ROM drives on MS-NET




Problem:
No Sound Heard From Test Program
__________

Symptom:

When running the test program, no sound is heard although no error
messages are encountered.
__________

Solution:

There are several steps to follow to ensure the test program functions
properly and produces sound as required by the test program.  Please
follow the steps below to resolve this error:

1)  Ensure external speakers are connected to the Sound Blaster card and
properly configured.  The speakers should be connected to the 1/8 inch
connector between the 15 pin joystick connector and the volume control
knob.  Typically, with computer speakers, one speaker is connected to the
other speaker which in turn connects to the Sound Blaster card.  Sound
Blaster cards require external speakers to play sound.

Check to be sure the volume control knob is properly adjusted.  The
volume control knob should be turned toward the 15 pin joystick connector
to obtain the maximum output from the sound card.

3)  Additionally, some speakers with built in power amplifiers may not allow
sound to be heard if they are incorrectly configured.  If speaker amplifiers
are optional, check to ensure that the amplifiers on the speakers are in the
OFF position while testing the operation of the card.  Refer to the speaker
manual for proper configuration of the speakers.

4)  If sound is still not heard while running the test program, substitute a
pair of headphones from a portable WALKMAN type radio or cassette player.
Normally these headphones have a 1/8 inch speaker jack that is ideal for
testing the sound card.

5)  After attempting all of the above steps with no success, a "clean floppy"
boot may be required.  A clean boot involves making a system bootable disk for
drive A.  To make a bootable diskette, place a blank diskette in drive A and
type FORMAT A: /S.  On the floppy disk, place a CONFIG.SYS file that contains
ONLY the device drivers required by the Sound Blaster.  Also, place an
AUTOEXEC.BAT file that contains ONLY the statements required by the Sound
Blaster card.  Boot the system from this disk and attempt to run the test
program to determine if sound may be heard.  Make sure the test program is not
running from any other shell program such as Windows or DosShell.  If this
resolves the error, there is a software conflict.  To determine the
conflicting software, add one line back into the CONFIG.SYS file or
AUTOEXEC.BAT file to determine the offending software driver.
__________

If the above steps do not resolve the error, it may be necessary to contact
our Technical Support Service by voice.  The Technical Support Center is open
from 8am to 10pm CST, seven days a week.  Technical Support may be reached at
(405) 742-6622.  When calling the Technical Support Center, please have the
following information available, and preferably be at the computer with the
system turned on.

   1)  The version and publisher of the DOS being used.
   2)  The make and model of the computer system.
   3)  A list of the other cards and peripherels installed in the computer.
   4)  Copies of the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
   5)  A description of any error messages and when they occur.

With the above information available, our Technical Support Staff will be able




Problem:
CD-ROM Drive Not Recognized in Windows
__________

Symptom:

After the CD-ROM software is loaded, the CD-ROM drive cannot be accessed in
Windows the first time Windows is run.  After Windows has been restarted,
however, the CD-ROM drive is available.
__________

Solution:

The CD-ROM installation software installs drivers into the CONFIG.SYS and
the AUTOEXEC.BAT file.  In the CONFIG.SYS the SBCD.SYS driver is installed
and in the AUTOEXEC.BAT file, the MSCDEX.EXE driver is loaded.

The AUTOEXEC.BAT file functions like a series of instructions for the
computer.  The AUTOEXEC.BAT file will carry out all the instructions in the
file, in the order they are listed.  Therefore, it is important that the
line which loads the MSCDEX.EXE file comes before any commands to load shell
programs or Windows.

Use a text editor to move the location of the command to load Windows or
another shell, below the command which loads the MSCDEX.EXE file.  Once this
is done, save the AUTOEXEC.BAT and reboot the computer.  At this point, the
CD-ROM drive should be recognized in the Windows File Manger.

Note:

A shell program is any program which acts like a menu.  Windows may be
considered a type of shell program.  Typically, however, a shell is usually
a menu program, or some other type of program from which other programs may
be launched.  Some computer manufacturers install a shell program from which
Windows and other programs may be lauched.
__________

Extended Instructions:

From a DOS prompt type:  CD\

Press the ENTER key.

Type:  EDIT AUTOEXEC.BAT

Press the ENTER key.

Toward the bottom of this file look for a statement which is similar to any
of the following lines:

WIN /S
WIN /3
WIN
DOSSHELL
MENU
Or any other command which starts a menu program, Windows, or a shell.

Somwhere below this statement, look for a line similar to the following line:

C:\SB16\DRV\MSCDEX.EXE /V /D:MSCD001 /M:15

If this line (or a similar line which contains the statement MSCDEX.EXE)
exists below a statement to load Windows, it will be necessary to move the
command to load Windows to the botton of the AUTOEXEC.BAT file.  To
accomplish this, do the following:

Using the arrow keys, move the flashing cursor to the beginning of the line
which starts Windows.

On a piece of paper write down the line exactly as it appears.

Delete the line.

Using the arrow keys again, move the flashing cursor to the last line in the
AUTOEXEC.BAT file.

Again, use the arrow keys to move the cursor to the end or right side of the
line.

Press the ENTER key.

The cursor will now be positioned on a new line which does not contain any
text.

Type in the command exactly as it was written on paper.

Hold down the ALT key.

Press F.

Release the ALT key and the F.

Press S.  (This will save the file.)

Hold down the ALT key.

Press F.

Release the ALT key and the F.

Press X.

This should cause the program to exit  and return to DOS.

Reboot the computer.

The CD-ROM should now be accessible in both DOS and Windows.
__________

Example of an incorrect AUTOEXEC.BAT file:
.
.
WIN
.
.
C:\SB16\DRV\MSCDEX.EXE /V /D:MSCD001 /M:15
__________

Example of a correct AUTOEXEC.BAT file:
.
.
C:\SB16\DRV\MSCDEX.EXE /V /D:MSCD001 /M:15
WIN
__________

If the above steps do not resolve the error, it may be necessary to contact
our Technical Support Service by voice.  The Technical Support Center is open
from 8am to 10pm CST, seven days a week.  Technical Support may be reached at
(405) 742-6622.  When calling the Technical Support Center, please have the
following information available, and preferably be at the computer with the
system turned on.

   1)  The version and publisher of the DOS being used.
   2)  The make and model of the computer system.
   3)  A list of the other cards and peripherels installed in the computer.
   4)  Copies of the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
   5)  A description of any error messages and when they occur.

With the above information available, our Technical Support Staff will be able




Problem:
No I/O Address Found When Running the Test Program With a CD ROM Drive
Attached to the CD ROM Interface
__________

Symptom:

When the test program for the Sound Blaster Pro or Sound Blaster 16
is run when a CD ROM drive is connected to the CD ROM interface,
the card is not detected or an I/O address cannot be found.
__________

Solution:

The most frequent cause of this error message is connecting the data cable
from the CD ROM drive to the Sound Blaster incorrectly.  The data cable is
the wide 40 pin cable that transfers digital data.  One edge of the data
cable has a red or pink stripe.  The red edge of the data cable should be
connected to the CD ROM drive facing AWAY from the power connector located
on the back of the drive.  The red edge of the data cable should be connected
toward the TOP of the Sound Blaster card or away from the motherboard.
__________

Extended Answer:

For testing purposes, follow the steps listed below:

Turn the computer system OFF.

Unplug the power cable from the computer.

Remove the case from the computer.

Locate the Sound Blaster card.

Remove the data cable from the CD ROM interface.

Replace the computer case.

Re-Connect the power cable to the computer.

Turn the computer on.

Change to the Sound Blaster Pro or Sound Blaster 16 directory.

Run the test program.

If the test program functions without error at this point, the error message
is most likely caused by one of the following:

1)  The CD ROM data cable is incorrectly installed.

2)  The CD ROM data cable is not fully seated.

3)  The CD ROM drive is not compatible with the interface on the Sound
Blaster card.  The CD ROM interface on the Sound Blaster Pro Deluxe or
Sound Blaster 16 Basic supports the Panasonic CR-521, CR-523, CR-531 or
CR-563.  If attempting to install a CD ROM drive other than these, use
the interface card shipped with the CD ROM drive.

If the error message is caused by option 1 or option 2 above, follow the
directions listed below.  If the error message is caused by option 3,
consult the CD ROM drive manual for information on how to install the
drive interface board.

Turn the computer OFF.

Unplug the power connector from the computer.

Remove the case from the computer.

Check that the data cable connected to the CD ROM drive is fully seated.
Also, check to ensure that the red edge of this data cable is AWAY from
the power connector on the CD ROM drive.

Re-Connect the data cable to the Sound Blaster Pro or Sound Blaster 16.
When connecting the data cable, make sure the red edge of the data cable
is toward the TOP of the card.  The top of the card is AWAY from the
motherboard.  Also, when connecting this cable make sure that the connector
is fully seated.

Replace the computer case.

Re-Connect the power cable.

Turn the computer on.

Change to the Sound Blaster Pro or Sound Blaster 16 directory.

Run the test program.
__________

If the above steps do not resolve the error, it may be necessary to contact
our Technical Support Service by voice.  The Technical Support Center is open
from 8am to 10pm CST, seven days a week.  Technical Support may be reached at
(405) 742-6622.  When calling the Technical Support Center, please have the
following information available, and preferably be at the computer with the
system turned on.

   1)  The version and publisher of the DOS being used.
   2)  The make and model of the computer system.
   3)  A list of the other cards and peripherels installed in the computer.
   4)  Copies of the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
   5)  A description of any error messages and when they occur.

With the above information available, our Technical Support Staff will be able




Problem:
No I/O Address Found When Running the Test Program With a CD ROM Drive
Attached to the CD ROM Interface
__________

Symptom:

When the test program for the Sound Blaster Pro or Sound Blaster 16
is run when a CD ROM drive is connected to the CD ROM interface,
the card is not detected or an I/O address cannot be found.
__________

Solution:

The most frequent cause of this error message is connecting the data cable
from the CD ROM drive to the Sound Blaster incorrectly.  The data cable is
the wide 40 pin cable that transfers digital data.  One edge of the data
cable has a red or pink stripe.  The red edge of the data cable should be
connected to the CD ROM drive facing AWAY from the power connector located
on the back of the drive.  The red edge of the data cable should be connected
toward the TOP of the Sound Blaster card or away from the motherboard.
__________

Extended Answer:

For testing purposes, follow the steps listed below:

Turn the computer system OFF.

Unplug the power cable from the computer.

Remove the case from the computer.

Locate the Sound Blaster card.

Remove the data cable from the CD ROM interface.

Replace the computer case.

Re-Connect the power cable to the computer.

Turn the computer on.

Change to the Sound Blaster Pro or Sound Blaster 16 directory.

Run the test program.

If the test program functions without error at this point, the error message
is most likely caused by one of the following:

1)  The CD ROM data cable is incorrectly installed.

2)  The CD ROM data cable is not fully seated.

3)  The CD ROM drive is not compatible with the interface on the Sound
Blaster card.  The CD ROM interface on the Sound Blaster Pro Deluxe or
Sound Blaster 16 Basic supports the Panasonic CR-521, CR-523, CR-531 or
CR-563.  If attempting to install a CD ROM drive other than these, use
the interface card shipped with the CD ROM drive.

If the error message is caused by option 1 or option 2 above, follow the
directions listed below.  If the error message is caused by option 3,
consult the CD ROM drive manual for information on how to install the
drive interface board.

Turn the computer OFF.

Unplug the power connector from the computer.

Remove the case from the computer.

Check that the data cable connected to the CD ROM drive is fully seated.
Also, check to ensure that the red edge of this data cable is AWAY from
the power connector on the CD ROM drive.

Re-Connect the data cable to the Sound Blaster Pro or Sound Blaster 16.
When connecting the data cable, make sure the red edge of the data cable
is toward the TOP of the card.  The top of the card is AWAY from the
motherboard.  Also, when connecting this cable make sure that the connector
is fully seated.

Replace the computer case.

Re-Connect the power cable.

Turn the computer on.

Change to the Sound Blaster Pro or Sound Blaster 16 directory.

Run the test program.
__________

If the above steps do not resolve the error, it may be necessary to contact
our Technical Support Service by voice.  The Technical Support Center is open
from 8am to 10pm CST, seven days a week.  Technical Support may be reached at
(405) 742-6622.  When calling the Technical Support Center, please have the
following information available, and preferably be at the computer with the
system turned on.

   1)  The version and publisher of the DOS being used.
   2)  The make and model of the computer system.
   3)  A list of the other cards and peripherels installed in the computer.
   4)  Copies of the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
   5)  A description of any error messages and when they occur.

With the above information available, our Technical Support Staff will be able




Problem:
No Sound When Playing CD Audio
__________

Symptom:

When trying to play audio CD ROM's in Windows, no sound is heard.
__________

Solution:

When trying to play audio CD's in Windows and no sound is heard, there
are several possible solutions.

1)  Check to see if an audio CD will play in DOS, by running either
CDPLYR.BAT or QCD.BAT.  These files may be found in the SBPRO or SB16
directory.  If the audio CD will play in DOS, then the required solution
is to re-install the [MCI] CD Audio driver in Windows.

The [MCI] CD Audio driver is a driver included with the Microsoft Windows
3.1 installation diskettes.  To install this driver, insert a data disk
in the CD-ROM drive, start Windows, go to the Control Panel and select the
Drivers Icon.  Once this has been selected, select the ADD button and select
the [MCI] CD Audio option.  At this point, it may be necessary to have the
original Windows installation diskettes.  Once the [MCI] CD Audio driver has
been installed, CD Audio should be available in Windows.  For further
information on the use or installation of the [MCI] CD Audio you may need
to contact Microsoft Technical Support.

2)  If an audio CD will not play in DOS, check to insure the CD Audio and
Master volume controls are adjusted to an adequate level.  The volume levels
may be adjusted from either DOS or Windows.  In Windows, launch the mixer
application which may be found in the SB16 group or the SBPro group.  To
adjust the volume levels from a DOS prompt, switch to the SBPRO or SB16
directory and type the following:

 SBP-SET /M:15 /CD:15  <-- For a Sound Blaster Pro

 SB16SET /M:255 /CD:255         <-- For a Sound Blaster 16

Again, attempt to play an Audio CD from a DOS prompt.  If CD Audio in DOS is
still not audible, proceed to step 3.

3)  If neither step 1 or step 2 resolves the problem, it may be necessary to
check the condition of the audio cable between the CD ROM drive and the SBPRO
or SB16 card.  Check this cable for proper connection and for any physical
defects.  Additionally, when using a non Creative Labs CD ROM drive, check to
ensure the pinout of the CD Audio output of the drive matches the pinout of
the CD Audio input on the sound card.  The pinout of the CD Audio input on
a Sound Blaster Pro or Sound Blaster 16 is:

  Pin 1: Ground
  Pin 2: Left Channel
  Pin 3:  Ground
  Pin 4: Right Channel

If the pinout does not match between the the CD ROM drive and the Sound
Blaster Pro or Sound Blaster 16, CD Audio will not be heard under any
circumstances and it will be necessary to modify the audio cable or obtain
the proper cable from a third party source.  (One source of such cables
may be the CD ROM drive manufacturer, or for the Sony CDU-31A or CDU-33A,
the Mitsumi CRMC LU005S or Mitsumi CRMC FX001/FX001d, or an NEC, Hitachi or
Toshiba CD ROM drives the Creative Labs Customer Service department at
(800) 998-1000.)

4)  Finally, many CD-ROM drives have the ability to allow a pair of
headphones to be connected via a headphone connector jack on the front
panel.  Disconnect the internal CD audio cable and connect a pair of 1/8
inch stereo headphones to see if the CD Audio may be heard when connected
directly to the CD-ROM drive.  If no sound is heard through the headphone
jack try a different CD Audio disk to see if sound is heard.  If no sound
is heard at this point, it may be necessary to contact the CD-ROM drive
manufacturer for further troubleshooting information.
__________

If the above steps do not resolve the error, it may be necessary to contact
our Technical Support Service by voice.  The Technical Support Center is open
from 8am to 10pm CST, seven days a week.  Technical Support may be reached at
(405) 742-6622.  When calling the Technical Support Center, please have the
following information available, and preferably be at the computer with the
system turned on.

   1)  The version and publisher of the DOS being used.
   2)  The make and model of the computer system.
   3)  A list of the other cards and peripherels installed in the computer.
   4)  Copies of the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
   5)  A description of any error messages and when they occur.

With the above information available, our Technical Support Staff will be able
to offer further solutions.



Problem:
CD Audio Cable for non-Creative Labs CD-ROM Drive
__________

Symptom:

Where may an audio cable to connect a Sound Blaster Pro or Sound Blaster
16 to a non-Creative Labs CD-ROM drive be obtained?
__________

Solution:

There are several places to check to obtain an audio cable to connect
between an SBPRO or SB16 and a third party CD-ROM drive.  Many CD-ROM
manufacturers can provide a cable which will connect the CD-ROM to the
SBPRO or SB16.  Additionally, there are several other cable companies
that specialize in making cables to connect between a CD-ROM drive and
a sound card.  Some big chain stores carry such cables as well.  If
however, the drive is a Sony CDU-31A or CDU-33A, Mitsumi CRMC
FX001/FX001d or CRMC LU005, an NEC, a Hitachi, or Toshiba, a cable may
be purchased directly from Creative Labs Customer Service department
at (800) 998-1000.

Some third party companies may be able to supply audio cables for drives
not listed above.  Creative Labs cannot, however, endorse, warranty or
guarantee cables purchased from third party sources.  For your
convenience, two such companies are listed:

   SC&T (800) 208-2080
   TTS (800) 887-4968
__________

If the above steps do not resolve the error, it may be necessary to
contact our Technical Support Service by voice.  The Technical Support
Center is open from 8am to 10pm CST, seven days a week.  Technical Support
may be reached at (405) 742-6622.  When calling the Technical Support Center,
please have the following information available, and preferably be at the
computer with the system turned on.

   1)  The version and publisher of the DOS being used.
   2)  The make and model of the computer system.
   3)  A list of the other cards and peripherels installed in the computer.
   4)  Copies of the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
   5)  A description of any error messages and when they occur.

With the above information available, our Technical Support Staff will be




Problem:
MSCDEX.EXE ERROR:  "Not Enough Drive Letters"
__________

Symptom:

When the MSCDEX.EXE driver tries to load, it gives a message "Not Enough
Drive Letters."
__________

Solution:

The cause of this error message is almost always the result of a LASTDRIVE
statement in the CONFIG.SYS file.  Changing the LASTDRIVE statement to a
higher value in the CONFIG.SYS will resolve the error.
__________

Extended Solution:

From a DOS prompt, Type: CD\

Type:  EDIT CONFIG.SYS

Look for a statement like the following:

LASTDRIVE=x  (Where X is a drive letter.)

Change the LASTDRIVE statement to a letter one or two higher in the alphabet
than the current setting.  For example, if the statement LASTDRIVE=E is the
current setting, change it to read LASTDRIVE=G.

Save the changes made to the CONFIG.SYS file.  From the menu at the top of the
screen, select FILE then select SAVE.

Next, select FILE again and then select EXIT.

Reboot the computer for the changes to take effect.
__________

If the above steps do not resolve the error, it may be necessary to contact
our Technical Support Service by voice.  The Technical Support Center is open
from 8am to 10pm CST, seven days a week.  Technical Support may be reached at
(405) 742-6622.  When calling the Technical Support Center, please have the
following information available, and preferably be at the computer with the
system turned on.

   1)  The version and publisher of the DOS being used.
   2)  The make and model of the computer system.
   3)  A list of the other cards and peripherels installed in the computer.
   4)  Copies of the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
   5)  A description of any error messages and when they occur.

With the above information available, our Technical Support Staff will be able




Problem:
CD Audio Sound in Windows
__________

Symptom:

When attempting to play audio CD's in Windows, either:

1)  The process to play CD Audio in Windows is not clear.

2)  The option to play CD Audio music is not available.
__________

Solution:

One of the easiest ways to play audio CD's under Windows is to use the
Media Player program included with Windows.  The program icon for Media
Player may be found in the Accessories group.  Follow the steps below to
play an audio CD:

1)  Open the Media Player program.

2)  Place an Audio CD in the CD-ROM drive.

3)  Select the DEVICE option on the menu bar in Media Player.

4)  From the Device menu, select CD AUDIO.

5)  Press the PLAY button on the Media Player.

If, however, CD Audio is not an option on the Media Player Device menu
follow the steps listed to add the driver.

1)  Insert a DATA CD into the CD-ROM drive.

2)  In Windows, select the Driver icon from the Control Panel.

3)  In the installed drivers list look for an entry that reads:
    [MCI] CD Audio

4)  If this entry exists, highlight the line and select REMOVE.

5)  Restart Windows.

6)  Again, select the Driver icon from the Control Panel.

7)  The [MCI] CD Audio driver should no longer exist in the installed
    driver list.

8)  Select the ADD button.

9)  Select the [MCI] CD Audio driver.

10)  When prompted to use the current driver or install a new driver,
     select NEW.

11)  Insert the original Microsoft Windows diskette.

12)  After re-installing the [MCI] CD Audio driver, restart Windows.

13)  Replace the DATA CD in the CD-ROM drive with an Audio CD.

14)  Re-run the Media Player program, and follow the instructions listed
     above to play an Audio CD.
__________

If the above steps do not resolve the error, it may be necessary to contact
our Technical Support Service by voice.  The Technical Support Center is open
from 8am to 10pm CST, seven days a week.  Technical Support may be reached at
(405) 742-6622.  When calling the Technical Support Center, please have the
following information available, and preferably be at the computer with the
system turned on.

   1)  The version and publisher of the DOS being used.
   2)  The make and model of the computer system.
   3)  A list of the other cards and peripherels installed in the computer.
   4)  Copies of the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
   5)  A description of any error messages and when they occur.

With the above information available, our Technical Support Staff will be able



Problem:
ERROR 8004:  Blaster Environment String Not Set
__________

Symptom:

When the computer system is booted or when trying to run software
that came with a Sound Blaster card, an Error Message "ERROR 8004:
Blaster Environment String Not Set" is encountered.
__________

Solution:

Many programs rely on the Blaster Environment Variable to determine
the settings of the Sound Blaster Card.  When the Blaster Environment
Variable is not set or not set correctly, these programs will either
not work correctly or will generate the above Error Message.  There
are several items to check to ensure this statement is set correctly.

First, from a DOS prompt, run the test program that was included with
the sound card.  This program will report the current configuration of
the sound card.  When running the test program, make sure to write down
the proper settings of the card.  Next, check the AUTOEXEC.BAT file to
be sure the SET BLASTER is the first line in the AUTOEXEC.BAT file and
that the statement is correct.  The proper statement for a Sound Blaster
or Sound Blaster Pro will appear as follows:

 SET BLASTER=Awww Ix Dy Tz

 Where:  Awww represents the I/O Address
   www = 220 or 240

            Ix represents the IRQ
   x = 2,3,5,7 or 10

                Dy represents the DMA channel
   y = 0,1 or 3

                Tz represents the type of card
   (Note: the only way to definitively determine
    the card type is to check the CT number which
    is found in the UPPER LEFT hand corner of the
    card.)

   T1 = CT1320
   T2 = CT1330
   T3 = CT1350, CT5320
   T4 = CT1600
   T5 = CT5330

The proper statement for any of the SB16 cards will appear as follows:

 SET BLASTER=Avvv Iw Dx Hy Pzzz T6

 Where:    Avvv represents the I/O Address
   vvv = 220, 240, 260 or 240

    Iw represents the IRQ
   w = 2,5,7 or 10

    Dx represents the DMA channel
   x = 0,1 or 3

    Hy represents the HDMA channel
   y = 5, 6, 7 or the value of the DMA channel

    Pzzz represents the MIDI port setting
   zzz = 300 or 330

    T is always 6 for a SB16.

Once the SET BLASTER statement has been correctly set, the computer
should be re-booted for the new changes to take effect.  After the
system has been reset, the Error Message should not re-appear.
__________

NOTE:

When using IBM-DOS version 5.0 or 6.0, this error message may be
encountered even when the BLASTER statement is correct.  This is caused
by the memory manager included with IBM-DOS.  To resolve this error,
place the statement MEMMAX -U on the first line of the AUTOEXEC.BAT
file and the SET BLASTER statement on the second line of the AUTOEXEC.BAT.
For further information on this subject, consult the IBM-DOS manual or
IBM Technical Support.
__________

If the above steps do not resolve the error, it may be necessary to
contact our Technical Support Service by voice.  The Technical Support
Center is open from 8am to 10pm CST, seven days a week.  Technical Support
may be reached at (405) 742-6622.  When calling the Technical Support Center,
please have the following information available, and preferably be at the
computer with the system turned on.

   1)  The version and publisher of the DOS being used.
   2)  The make and model of the computer system.
   3)  A list of the other cards and peripherels installed in the computer.
   4)  Copies of the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
   5)  A description of any error messages and when they occur.

With the above information available, our Technical Support Staff will be