Final answer:
The best next step after installing a new sound card and confirming cable and volume settings is to check for updates to the sound card drivers. Driver updates often resolve communication issues between new hardware and the operating system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student has purchased a new sound card and installed it in their computer, but there is no sound coming from the speakers despite having checked cable connections and volume levels. The best next step in troubleshooting this issue is to check for driver updates for the sound card. Sound card drivers are software components that facilitate communication between the sound card hardware and the operating system. Drivers often need updating to fix bugs or compatibility issues that may arise with new hardware installations .The process typically involves going to the sound card manufacturer's website, looking for the support or downloads section, and finding the most recent drivers for the exact model of your sound card. Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the instructions provided. In many cases, simply updating to the latest drivers can resolve sound issues that occur after installing new hardware. If the problem persists after updating the drivers, additional troubleshooting steps such as checking BIOS settings, ensuring the sound card is properly seated in the PCI slot, or consulting the sound card's troubleshooting documentation may be necessary. However, the symptoms described do not suggest an issue with the speakers themselves or a need to reinstall the operating system.