Another HDMI Audio Problem

Hi everyone,
I know this topic is a popular one, I've done enough searches on google to figure out I'm not alone with this problem, but still, after a few years, I still can't find the answer. I realise there is a similar thread active right now but my problem is a bit different in that I don't have the option of HDMI in my playback devices at all.

I'm using
Samsung R480 laptop
Intel Core i5
nVidia GeForce GT 330M
High Definition Audio Device (EDIT: when I was updating the drivers Realtek uninstalled itself, this should read Realtek High Definition Audio)

This is a familiar story by now BUT: when I first got my computer my HDMI video and sound worked fine hooked up to my Samsung Plasma. I recall having some problems when I first tried to hook it up, but I figured it out (somehow, this was a couple years ago) and I'm 75% sure it had to do with the drivers. Then I went away for a year, came home and the audio is gone. I have updated all my drivers (I think) and Samsung Update Plus doesn't have anything for me. "Speakers" are the only choice in my playback devices menu and I have show disabled devices checked.

Apologies, I know this comes up often, but I'm at the end of my rope.

Thanks for the quick response.

Under sound, video and game controllers I have:
Bluetooth handsfree audio
Realtek High Definition Audio

It says the device is working properly.

Did you make sure the cable is good? What about any settings on the tv itself too?

Yep cable is fine. Can't see anything in the tv settings that look off. Source is definitely correct.

Thanks p5bdkw. I tried doing a clean install for the NVIDIA drivers, the video installed but the audio did not (just said "not installed"), so I assume my audio isn't going through there (???). Pretty sure I'm not delusional though, it was definitely working before I left home.

You get the prize p5bdkw!
I have the Canadian version, so went to the Canadian website and downloaded the first "HDMI" driver. Turned out to be HDMI Audio for NVIDIA and bingo my HDMI option has returned. No idea how it got removed. Thanks so much!