I have a Compaq V3228 AU model laptop. Windows XP is installed and everything works fine except for the built in mic. The built in microphone is barely audible. It works, but i can barely hear myself if i record a sound clip. All sliders in volume control (both input and output) are on high. There's no such option like "Mic Boost" and i have the latest Realtek drivers installed (from the HP / Compaq website). Please help

Turning on Microphone Boost in Windows XP:

Not all sound cards support Microphone Boost. The simplest way to find out in Windows XP is to open the Windows Volume Control. If a speaker icon is displayed at the lower right hand corner of the Windows Desktop double-click it. If no speaker icon is displayed then click the Windows Start button and select "Run..." In the Open box enter sndvol32.exe and click the OK button. This will open the Windows Volume Control. Select "Advanced Controls" from the Windows Volume Control's Options menu. You should see an "Advanced" button near the lower right hand corner of the Windows Volume Control screen. Click the Advanced button. If the "Advanced Controls for Microphone" screen shows a check box for "Microphone Boost" then check that box and click Close. Now try making a test recording and see if it works.
Now, If you do not find this option, I found an amazing video that might just do the trick. Click on the
link and view how to see the hidden "Mickey" :). Mic Boost.