Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
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Figure.3 24
A plotter.
Audio Output Devices
The audio adapter in a computer handles both input and output. You
learned earlier in this chapter how audio input comes in from micro-
phones and digital musical instruments. The most common audio output
devices are speakers and headphones.
Speaker systems designed for computers are somewhat different from
speaker systems designed for home stereo and home theater systems.
Typically, a single 3.5mm plug connects to an output port on the com-
puter; you don't plug in the speakers separately to the computer. On a
two-speaker system, one speaker connects to the computer and the other
speaker connects to the first speaker. A system with more speakers than
that usually has a central gathering point, such as a subwoofer into which
all the speakers connect.
Step by Step
Adjusting Sound Output Volume in.Windows
Window 7 provides a Volume control in the notification area that you can easily use to
adjust the overall sound coming from your computer's speakers or headphone, and also
mute or unmute the sound. You can also adjust the volume levels for individual compo-
nents. Follow these steps to explore your computer's sound controls:
1
In the notification area, click the speaker icon. A slider appears.
2
Click the speaker graphic at the bottom of the slider. A red X appears on the button,
indicating the sound is muted.
3
Click the Mixer hyperlink at the bottom of the slider. A dialog box opens showing
individual sliders for each adjustable sound-producing item on your system. You
may have different ones than shown here.
