Windows 7: Why doesn't Realtek on my laptop recognize headphones?

Everything was normal until tonight when I plugged my headphones into my Dell Inspiron 17 laptop and the audio was still coming out of the speakers.

In the Sound window of Control Panel, the headphones don't even show up as a playback device (only the speakers). "Show Disabled Devices" is checked. What does "Line in at front panel mean?

So I am very confused and fustrated, since this just happened tonight. I would greatly appreciate any help

Mine do not show up there either. If you have the VIA HD Audio Deck installed check the settings for it. You'll will find it in the control panel. It has an option for head phones. Maybe something got altered in there.

Where can I find VIA HD Audio Deck in Control Panel, I can't find it?

If you can't find it then it is not installed. Sorry. There must be a control program somewhere for sound. Can you post a shot of your control panel with all icons showing?

Just in case:
Screenshots and Files - Upload and Post in Seven Forums

Here you go

One more to go.

In the control panel where it says 'Category' (top right) click on it & go with 'large icons'. Then post that.

Hang On. Saw what is hopefully needed. Second picture, 'Realtek Audio'. Check the settings in there.

ok.

Sorry. I was too slow. Read my previous post.

This is what comes up. There is no tab for headphones and I don't see any "settings" option

Damn. Though it would have had an option in there. Looks like you'll have to wait till someone shows up with the same setup.