TestOut LabSim A+ Certification Practice Exam

Which port should you connect a non-amplified microphone to on a sound card?

1. Line In

2. Mic In

3. Speaker Out

4. Headphone Jack

The correct answer is: Mic In

Connecting a non-amplified microphone to the correct port on a sound card is essential for proper audio input. The designated port for connecting a microphone is specifically labeled as "Mic In." This port is designed to provide the necessary amplification for the low-level audio signal that a non-amplified microphone produces. Microphones typically output a weaker signal compared to instruments or other audio sources, which is why the Mic In port is equipped with circuitry to boost that signal to levels suitable for processing. In contrast, the other options would not provide the appropriate level of amplification needed for a microphone. The Line In port is intended for devices with higher signal levels, such as CD players or other audio sources, and does not amplify signals as the Mic In port does. The Speaker Out and Headphone Jack ports are meant for outputting audio to speakers or headphones, respectively, and do not serve any input function for microphones. Thus, using the Mic In port ensures that the microphone operates effectively in the audio system.