After installing Vista Ultimate RTM (from TechNet), upon first logon, Windows
almost instantly downloads some drivers from Windows Update for my onboard
Realtek AC97 audio (which had no drivers installed after setup). Windows then
prompts for a reboot after installation.



When I log back in, I do have sound, but the control panel extension, or
"SOUNDMAN.EXE" just don't work at all. They don't open and Vista does say
that it may not have worked.

There are some official AC97 drivers on the Realtek site that don't have
this problem, which I've updated to fine, but perhaps as the AC97 codecs are
possibly the most popular audio device of end users, it would be beneficial
to either remove the buggy drivers or use the Vista ones from realtek.com.tw