Fujitsu Siemens Computers Fujitsu-Siemens PC, User Manual

Page: 39 / 96

13
2.7 The soundcard
It is no longer possible to imagine many applications without
sound, e.g. DVD films, TV, games, Internet radio etc.
Soundcards convert digital signals into analog signals that can be
processed by speakers or amplifiers (DA converter). When
recording, e.g. with a microphone, analog signals are converted
into digital signals (AD converter).
The most important components of the soundcard are: Synthesiser
(sound generator), AD/DA converter (
Analog D igital / D igital
Analog converter) for recording and playing back sounds.
Connections for headphones or speakers and a microphone are
integrated.
By default the output signal for sound playback is an analog
signal at the corresponding connection socket. In some
configurations, it is also possible to use the sound signal as a
digital signal. The SPDIF ( S ony P hilips D igital I nter F ace)
connection is available for this purpose.
There are two options for processing and playing back sound on
our PC systems:
•
using a soundcard
•
Sound on Board
Sound processing and playback using a soundcard
The soundcard is inserted into one of the PCI slots. In this
variation, the original manufacturer’s CD is normally supplied. This
CD contains the necessary drivers, programs and documentation.
Caution! If it is necessary to restore your system, you should
install the drivers and programs from the CD
accompanying the soundcard, as described in the
"
System recovery " manual supplied.