1
\$\begingroup\$

I made a simple microphone with amplifier which outputs 9V max signal. It's biased in the middle somewhere around 4.5V. I hooked the output of the circuit to the computer speaker audio in. I was wondering how much it can take or what is the recommended input and output voltage ranges of computer headphones and speaker ports?

\$\endgroup\$

1 Answer 1

5
\$\begingroup\$

If it's a true microphone input, then it's looking for mV signals. A "line in" port usually wants around 1 V RMS. A "speaker" output port will be low impedance and have some power capability since it's intended to drive 4 or 8 Ohm speakers, usually to at least a few Watts. Anything else is hard to guess.

\$\endgroup\$
1
  • 2
    \$\begingroup\$ Standard line level for consumer equipment is -10dBV or about 0.32V RMS. You might get up to 1 V RMS before clipping, since the input probably has around 20dB of headroom. \$\endgroup\$
    – Phil Frost
    Jun 27, 2013 at 3:58

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.