3 Audio

Your computer enables you to use a variety of audio features:

Play music using your computer speakers and/or connected external speakers

Record sound using the internal microphone or connect an external microphone

Download music from the Internet

Create multimedia presentations using audio and images

Transmit sound and images with instant messaging programs

Stream radio programs (select models only) or receive FM radio signals

Create or “burn” audio CDs

Connecting external audio devices

WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury, adjust the volume before putting on headphones, earbuds, or a headset. For additional safety information, refer to the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices.

To connect external devices such as external speakers, headphone, or a microphone, refer to the manufacturer's instructions provided with the device. For best results, remember the following tips:

Be sure that the device cable is securely connected to the correct jack on your computer. (Cable connectors are normally color-coded to match the corresponding jacks on the computer.)

Be sure to install any drivers required by the external device.

NOTE: A driver is a required program that acts like a translator between the device and the programs that use the device.

Checking your audio functions

To check the system sound on your computer, follow these steps:

1.Select Start > Control Panel.

2.Click Hardware and Sound.

3.Click Sound.

4.When the Sound window opens, click the Sounds tab. Under Program Events, select any sound event, such as a beep or alarm, and click the Test button.

6 Chapter 3 Audio