Alternatively referred to as an audio output device, sound board, or audio card. A sound card is an expansion card for producing sound on a computer that can be heard through speakers or headphones. Although the computer does not need a sound device to function, they are included on every machine in one form or another, either in an expansion slot (PCI) or built into the motherboard (onboard).
Sound card connections
The picture is an example of a sound card audio ports or audio jacks on the back of your computer, associated colors, and the connector symbols.
Digital Out (white or yellow; words: "Digital" or "Digital Out") - Used with surround sound or loudspeakers.
Sound in or line in (blue; Arrow pointing into waves) - Connection for external audio sources, (e.g., tape recorder, record player, or CD player.)
Microphone or Mic (pink) - The connection for a microphone or headphones.
Sound out or line out (green; Arrow pointing out of waves) - The primary sound connection for your speakers or headphones. This sound card also has a second (black) and third (orange) sound out connector.
FireWire (not pictured) - Used with some high-quality sound cards for digital video cameras and other devices.
MIDI or joystick (15 pin yellow connector) - Used with earlier sound cards to connect MIDI keyboard or joystick.
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