Hi again

I have my gateway 4520gz laptop running MEPIS. It works wonderfully, except the sound. It is just not recognized, at least that's what I think.
It is a sound max AC'97 sound card. That's all the info I can find on it through gateway and sound max. I have no idea how to try and "compile the kernel" which is what help suggested. HELP? I want sound. hehe.

thanks