I think we got away from the original problem.” No sound either from speakers or head set supplied on the laptop.” What I did now connected a USB Digital Stereo Sound Box. These boxes are when you have no option for mike and head set on the laptop, and that is the way I can only hear the sound. What I think this USB device is bypassing the sound problem. It is like your conventional keyboard or mouse jack are damaged, then you plug in USB and it works so you forget about it. Well in this case I could use it same way, but it defeat the purpose of a laptop where everything is integrated, and it would be a nice challenge for me. I would like to fix more difficult problems. Don’t forget this is my hobby like most of us. This laptop was given to me with the famous video cable problem. I replaced the cable, and the graphics are awesome. That is when I notice there is no sound. I did check all the connections at least twice, and I think your first suggestion with short on the sound jack would be best option to look at. I will open it up again, and look for something bent or cold solder around the jack. Thanks again