Audio

The computer has a variety of audio features that allow you to:

Play music using the computer speakers and/or connected external speakers.

Record sound using the internal microphone or a connected 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 receiving 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, see the Regulatory, Safety and Environmental Notices.

To connect external devices such as external speakers, headphone, or a microphone, see the information provided with the device. For best results:

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

Be sure that you install all 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 the computer:

1.Select Start > Control Panel.2.Click Hardware and Sound.

3.Click Sound.

4.When the Sound window appears, click the Sounds tab.

5.Under Program Events, select any sound event, such as a beep or alarm.

6.Click the Test button. You should hear sound through the speakers or through connected headphones.

To check the record functions:

1.Select Start > All Programs > Accessories > Sound Recorder.

2.Click Start Recording and speak into the microphone. For best results when recording, speak directly into the microphone and record sound in a setting free of background noise.

36 Chapter 4 Multimedia