I'm new to PC gaming and have had this computer for only a month or two. ARK: Survival Evolved worked normally for several weeks, but after I didn't use the PC for three or four days, the game started behaving strangely. When I launch it, audio works for about five seconds, then cuts out while the computer makes a squeaking sound for two or three seconds. The sound never returns, although my other games work normally. I've updated Windows, reinstalled ARK, removed all mods, and confirmed there don't seem to be any game updates. Could this be an ARK-specific issue, or should I check something else? Also, how do I update my drivers?
2 Answers
Since the problem only happens with ARK, it may be a game-specific audio or installation issue rather than failing hardware. You can still verify the game files through your game launcher and install the latest graphics, chipset, and audio drivers. In Windows, open Device Manager, expand “Sound, video and game controllers,” right-click your audio device, and choose “Update driver.” For the best results, download the newest driver directly from your PC or motherboard manufacturer. It’s also worth checking ARK’s audio settings and temporarily switching the output device or disabling spatial audio.
The squeaking may be electrical noise or coil whine triggered when ARK starts using the system differently, but if the noise is coming from the speakers or headphones, it could simply be an audio driver or output-device problem. Test ARK with another headset or your monitor speakers, and check whether the squeak is coming from the PC itself or the audio device. If it is physically coming from inside the case, stop using the computer if it becomes loud, smells unusual, or is accompanied by crashes, and have the hardware inspected.
There weren’t any ARK updates available, and I already reinstalled it and removed the mods. I’ll check the audio and motherboard drivers next, since I’m not familiar with updating them yet.