Types of Sound Devices

Microphones are audio input devices.Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images

Sound devices or audio devices in computing are devices that deal with the input and output of sound. While sound is not always necessary for basic computing tasks, it can enhance a user's experience through features such as audio prompts and music. Audio devices are necessary for many common computer activities, such as watching DVDs and online video.

Sound Cards

Sound cards are computer audio devices that convert data into audio signals and audio signals into data. In other words, the sound card is the device that makes audio input and output from a computer possible. Without a sound card, a computer will not be capable of audio playback. There are several types of sound cards, including onboard sound, dedicated internal sound cards and external sound cards. Onboard sound cards are sound controllers that are built into the computer's motherboard. Laptops and low-end PCs often have built-in sound cards. Internal dedicated sound cards are cards installed inside a computer's case, which are distinct from the motherboard and plug into the motherboard through an expansion slot such as PCI slot. External sound cards are cards that plug into a computer though an external port such as a USB port.

Speakers are sound devices that connect to the sound card and emit sound based on audio signals received from the sound card. Speaker systems can be built into a computer monitor or consist of multiple external speakers placed around the computer. Speaker systems often include a subwoofer, which provides additional "bass" (low-pitched sound.).

Headphones are audio output devices that consist of two relatively small speakers that fit over or inside the ears. Headphones are a common alternative to speakers when using computers in public places, where audio playback might distract or annoy others. High-quality headphones can provide very loud and clear audio while blocking out other ambient sounds.

Microphones are audio input devices that send audio information to a sound card. Microphones allow for activities such as voice recordings and live computer chatting through programs like TeamSpeak, Ventrilo, Oovoo and Skype.

Device drivers are software components that go along with hardware devices. Computer sound cards often require device driver installation to function properly. Installing drivers that are not compatible with a particular sound card or operating system can result in errors. Typically, new hardware devices that require driver software will come with a driver CD that contains basic drivers for the device.