Intel's HD Audio PC Sound Ambitions

First Realities, Continued

When you plug in a device, the software detects it and asks you what type of equipment it is.

Theoretically, it ought to be possible to reconfigure various jack-plugs whichever way you want but the software gets mad at you if you try to do that.

In the configuration we tested, the back panel had five 3.5 mm stereo jack bases, which would give you eight (7.1) outputs and one input. Reconfiguration to 5.1 would give you two inputs (mic and line). To this you can add two 3.5 mm stereo jacks on the front, which would give you either two inputs or one output and one input. For example, a headphone output, the ALC880, is in the planning in order to provide a signal suitable for this type of equipment, which is a very good idea.