Setting up a desktop computer (cont.)
![Audio Ports](/uploads/7/4/0/8/7408210/527376.jpg)
Audio Ports
tep 8
If your computer uses external speakers, locate the bank of audio ports on the back of the tower and connect the speakers. In this example, the speakers are located in the monitor so speakers do not have to be connected.
The audio ports are often confusing. If your computer hascolor-coded peripherals that match the colors on the back of the computer case, then connecting the audio components is generally very easy. If the peripheral does not have a color-coded cable, then remember that the speakers will always go in the green port. Headphones connect to the pink port, and various other devices will connect to the blue port, which is the Line In port.
Additionally, many devices, including headphones, now come with USB connectors. In most computers, the USB ports are located directly above the bank of audio ports.
If your computer uses external speakers, locate the bank of audio ports on the back of the tower and connect the speakers. In this example, the speakers are located in the monitor so speakers do not have to be connected.
The audio ports are often confusing. If your computer hascolor-coded peripherals that match the colors on the back of the computer case, then connecting the audio components is generally very easy. If the peripheral does not have a color-coded cable, then remember that the speakers will always go in the green port. Headphones connect to the pink port, and various other devices will connect to the blue port, which is the Line In port.
Additionally, many devices, including headphones, now come with USB connectors. In most computers, the USB ports are located directly above the bank of audio ports.
![Power Supply Cable Plugged into Power Strip](/uploads/7/4/0/8/7408210/3675086.jpg)
Power Supply Cable Plugged into Power Strip
Step 11
Plug the power strip into a wall outlet, and turn the power on to the monitor, tower, and any external speakers.
It is not a good idea to plug the computer directly into a wall outlet, due to the possibility of electrical surges. A power strip with surge protection is a good investment because it helps protect your computer from this. Some warranties may even exclude electrical damage, so a power strip is really important. Additionally, special power strips with noise filtration can be purchased if interference from multiple appliances is an issue.
You have other sources of protection, like anUninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), which not only protects your computer from surges, but also serves as an alternate source of power in the event of power loss. As these decrease in price, some home users are finding a UPS a worthwhile investment.
Plug the power strip into a wall outlet, and turn the power on to the monitor, tower, and any external speakers.
It is not a good idea to plug the computer directly into a wall outlet, due to the possibility of electrical surges. A power strip with surge protection is a good investment because it helps protect your computer from this. Some warranties may even exclude electrical damage, so a power strip is really important. Additionally, special power strips with noise filtration can be purchased if interference from multiple appliances is an issue.
You have other sources of protection, like anUninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), which not only protects your computer from surges, but also serves as an alternate source of power in the event of power loss. As these decrease in price, some home users are finding a UPS a worthwhile investment.
Set Up Complete
Your basic computer hardware is now set up. You might be ready to start working, but before you do, spend a little time arranging your workspace. It needs to promote your productivity, but also be arranged in way that is comfortable and promotes health. The design and arrangement of our computer equipment is not simply a question of what looks nice, but how it can impact our bodies. Computer ergonomics is the science of equipment design and how specific equipment usage and placement can reduce the user's discomfort and increase productivity.
For example, to decrease injuries associated with the soft tissue in the wrists, keep your mouse at the same level as the keyboard and do not use wrist pads while typing. Additionally, to decrease eye strain and neck injuries, position your monitor screen so that your eyes are level with the top of the screen. There are numerous other guidelines regarding chair height, equipment placement, and more that can help you create an efficient and comfortable work area.
Visit the U.S. Center for Disease Control website for more information about computer work area ergonomics.