Speakers through a usb port

PC speakers are common to most home and work based IT stations, but the way in which they connect to the computer is starting to change.

Initially all speaker systems used a standard audio port that would work for both speakers and headphones. Indeed up to not too long ago many keyboards would also include this socket for easy headphone access.

Now however, with many keyboards being both remote and battery powered, the further drain on battery power now makes this extra functionality a rarity.

A further and even more significant change is the use of speakers connecting via a usb port rather than an audio port. This is also true of keyboards and even the mouse.

From the PC manufacturing companies point of view it makes things less complex, however it can also result in some confusing problems where the speakers or keyboard are not initially recognised for what they are (if at all).

On the positive side it does increase connectivity options and this is why most PC’s and laptops have several usb ports, often with some available on the front of the case. It also means that, for those with limited “port” knowledge, the connectivity issue becomes very simple, i.e. what ever it is plug it into a usb port.