The CMedia CMI 9738 driver helps Windows communicate with the audio hardware so applications can play sound and access supported recording inputs. Installing a compatible driver can restore missing audio devices or resolve problems caused by an incorrect driver. If you are setting up this hardware on Windows 11, 10, 8, or 7, check the package’s compatibility details first, as support for older audio hardware can vary.

Key Features

• Audio device recognition: Allows Windows to identify and use the CMedia CMI 9738 audio hardware when the driver matches your system.
• Sound playback: Provides access to supported speaker and headphone outputs for music, videos, games, and system sounds.
• Recording input support: Enables available microphone or line-in connections, depending on your computer’s audio configuration.
• Windows audio integration: Makes supported playback and recording controls available through Windows sound settings. Additional controls depend on the driver package.

How to Install

1. Confirm your hardware and Windows version. Open Device Manager and locate the audio device, which may appear under “Sound, video and game controllers” or as an unidentified multimedia device. Check its hardware IDs if the name is unclear, and confirm whether Windows uses a 32-bit or 64-bit system.
2. Select a matching driver package. Review the supported operating systems and hardware details before downloading. Do not assume a package intended for Windows 7 will also work on Windows 8, 10, or 11. For integrated motherboard audio, your computer or motherboard manufacturer may provide a better-matched package.
3. Extract and install the files. If the download is compressed, extract it first. Run the included installer, or use Device Manager’s “Update driver” option and browse to the extracted driver folder.
4. Restart your computer. Save open work and reboot to let Windows finish loading the installed audio components.
5. Test playback and recording. Select the correct output in Windows sound settings, check the volume, and play an audio file. If you use a microphone, test that input too. If problems begin after installation, use Device Manager’s “Roll Back Driver” option when available.

Common Issues and Fixes

• Install fails or stalls: Windows may block the older CMedia package or the installer may hang if the CMI 9738 device is connected. Disconnect the device, run the installer as administrator, reboot, then reconnect. Use a signed driver package; avoid forcing unsigned drivers.
• Device not detected: Try a direct rear USB port instead of a hub, test another cable, and check Device Manager for “Unknown device” or entries under Sound, video and game controllers. Uninstall any unknown device, then scan for hardware changes.
• Driver version conflicts: Windows may load its generic USB Audio driver instead of the CMedia driver, causing missing controls or no sound. In Device Manager, update the driver manually and select the CMedia CMI 9738 package, or uninstall the existing audio device and reinstall the latest driver.