All about Integrated OnBoard Audio Systems

Nowadays integrated audio comes in two flavors if you are using an Intel based motherboard: AC’97 or HD Audio

AC'97 -  Older Systems
AC'97 (short for Audio Codec '97) is the audio codec standard developed by the Intel Architecture Labs in 1997. It is used mainly in motherboards, modems, sound cards and chassis front panel audio solutions. AC'97 supports 96 kHz in 20-bit stereo resolution and 48 kHz in 20-bit stereo for multichannel recording and playback. In 2004, AC'97 was superseded by Intel® High Definition Audio (HD Audio).

HD Audio -  Newer Systems Since 2004
Intel® High Definition Audio refers to the specification released by Intel in 2004 for delivering high-definition audio that is capable of playing back more channels at higher quality than previous integrated audio Codecs like AC'97. Hardware based on HD Audio is capable of delivering 192 kHz/32 bit quality for two and 96 kHz/32 bit for up to eight channels.

How to Identify your Desktop Board Audio Codec

1> Control Panel  -  System  -  Hardware  -   Device Mgr

2> Expand the Sound, video and game controllers section

Example:

Or you can select the "Sounds and Audio Devices" from the control panel:

Audio Control Software

Audio settings are controlled by audio control software, installed along with the audio drivers for your desktop board.

Depending on your Intel Desktop Board model, one of the following applications will be installed:

·         Intel® Audio Studio

·         SigmaTel* (IDT*) Audio Control Panel

·         Realtek* AC’97 Audio Control Panel - I have this one.

·         Soundmax* Audio Control Panel

Each of these software applications allows you to perform basic audio configurations such as volume control, audio

port configuration, jack sensing and speaker tests. Advanced features can vary.

You usually can run the software from the task bar, if installed, or through the control panel.

Here’s what my Audio Control Software looks like for my system when you launch it: Special Note here: It has been noted by not selecting an ENVIRONMENT such as I did - Living Room,

the sound sometimes will not function. This is a known bug with some systems. I definitely think it pays off big dividends by getting very familiar with this control software.

How to Configure Your Audio - Outputs are located on the rear of your system coming from the motherboard.

How to Configure a 6 Channel Audio System