2torial 0710:
Learn2 Attach Speakers to Your Computer

Speaker now or forever hold your peace

That tiny, almost invisible speaker inside your computer is fine for simple beeping sounds, but not much else. If you'd like to enjoy music, more explosive games, and genuinely sophisticated DVDs, a set of external speakers will properly enhance your computer's sound.

External speakers are inexpensive and reasonably easy to connect. All it takes is a little uncomfortable maneuvering around the back of your computer, and the scattering of a few dust bunnies.

Most external speakers share similar features and connect to your computer in the same way. The common design includes two small speakers that are placed in front of you, and sometimes a third, larger one that sits a little apart. One, if not both, of the small speakers will have a power cord, a power button, and a volume control. If only one speaker has these features, the other speakers are connected to it by a thin wire. Another design has one cord shaped like a "Y" that connects the speakers.

All computer speaker systems connect to the sound card on the back panel of your computer. Built-in sound cards became the standard several years ago, but if your computer doesn't have one, you'll need to have a card and its software installed--or install them yourself.

Once you're sure you have the sound card, just turn off your computer and monitor--it's time to connect the speakers.