1. Access the Sounds and Audio Devices control panel category. Select the Adjust the system volume task.

2. The Volume tab is used to control the volume for the entire computer system and speaker configuration. The Mute check box is used to mute all of the computer's sound. The Place volume icon in the task bar is used to add a volume control icon in the taskbar in the notification area. The Device Volume slide bar sets the computers value settings. Click on the Advanced button located in the Device volume section. The Volume Control window opens.

3. Click on the Mute all check box to enable it. If it is already enabled, leave the setting turned on (enabled). Close the Volume Control window. Return to the Sounds and Audio Devices Properties window. You will have to re-access the control panel category.

4. Return all Volume Control settings back to their original settings and return to the Sounds and Audio Devices Properties window.

5. Click on the Speaker Volume button. The Speaker volume screen has a left and right speaker volume. This setting does not affect speakers that simply plug into the Line out connection on the sound adapter or built into the motherboard. Click on the Cancel button.

6. The Advanced button in the Speakers settings section is used to configure speakers for such things as headphone usage and surround sound. Click on the Advanced button in the Speakers settings section and click on the Speakers tab. The Speakers setup list is used to specify external speakers. Computers such as ones in a business environment or a lab can be configured for no speakers.

7. To disable speakers, click on the Speaker setup down arrow and select the No Speakers optipn. Click on the Cancel button twice and close the control panel window.

8. Power off the computer properly.

Operating system specialists must frequently add new hardware and software using the operating system. Windows XP has specific tools for these functions. Using the correct procedure is essential for success. The following sections highlight many of the tasks a technician must perform:
• Adding Plug and Play Devices
• Adding Non-Plug and Play Devices
• Adding a Printer
• Removing Hardware Devices
• Installing and Removing Software

Hardware devices are physical components that connect to the computer. Hardware devices can be either plug and play or non-plug and play. A device driver is a piece of software that allows hardware to work with a specific operating system. Some device drivers are aJtomatically included with Windows XP. A technician must be aware of what hardware is installed into a system so that the latest XP-compatible drivers can be downloaded and installed.