Audacity
Testing Your Equipment
Before you begin recording in Audacity you want to make sure your equipment is functioning properly. This includes making sure it is properly connected, that the device is functional, that your computer's settings are correct, and testing in Audacity.
Testing Your Equipment
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Attach your input device to your computer
EXAMPLE: Attach your microphone to the microphone input or USB port.
NOTE: The type and place of attachment will vary for different devices. -
If your device has an on-off switch, make sure it is on
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Open Audacity
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From the Input meter pull-down menu, select Monitor input
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Test the input device
EXAMPLE: Speak into the microphone.
If your device is functioning properly it will register on the Input meter. For more information on the Input meter, refer to Audacity: The Meter Toolbar.
Troubleshooting Problems
If your input device is not registering on the Input meter, check to make sure it is in functioning order, and that it is not muted.
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On the far right of the Taskbar, right click the SOUND icon
» select Recording Devices
The Sound dialog box appears. -
Under your recording device, it will indicate whether or not it is working properly
EXAMPLE:
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Select the recording device
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Click PROPERTIES
The [input device] Properties dialog box appears. -
Select the Levels tab
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Make sure the volume slider is not at zero and that it is not muted
EXAMPLE:
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Click OK
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If problems persist, try a different microphone or computer
