Sound cards?

I have connected a headset/microphone to my computer.using the red and black ports based on the top of my computer. I can play and hear music through these headphones and also through my speakers attached via the sound card at the rear of the computer. However I am unable to configure enough volume on the microphone to use it with instant messaging. The mic volume tab is at maximum but not enough sound seems to be generated to talk to friends etc. All my sound and video controllers are working. What is the problem and how can I solve it? A second sound card perhaps?

Sound cards?
some apps. have a audio booster/10db/20db boost
Reply:Try a different Mike first, %26amp; try pluging both into the back jacks.
Reply:I would open your Volume Control, and mute the mic in the window that opens. I'm not done yet, don;t worry, this is just so you don;t hear yourself from your speakers or headphones when you talk. Now click Option at the top, and make sure Advanced is checked. If it isn't, click Advanced, if it is, click properties. Now choose Recording in the new window that pops up and click Ok. Your Volume Control window should change. Under the mic, click advanced and check Mic Boost. Try it with mic boost on, it should be significantly louder