Re: Loud Computer Driven Alarm

["Robert L. Bass" <robertlbass@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

> I haven't the foggiest idea where to post this.
>
> Occasionally, I'm expecting a critical email.  The bong my email
> program makes when mail arrives is fine if I'm near the computer, but
> if I'm in another room I cannot hear it.  How can I add something that
> will set off a loud (and hopefully continuous) alarm?

This one's an easy fix, Jim.  Connect the line level outputs of your PC
audio to an input on your stereo system.  Turn up the volume.  Set your
e-mail and/or IM programs to play a tune that lasts long enough to get your
attention.

If you want to be able to do this while listening to another audio source
you'll need to insert an inexpensive audio mixer into the system.  Here's a
simple way to do it.  Connect the pre-amp output of your stereo receiver to
one input on your mixer.  Set the volume for that input at unity.  Connect
the line level audio from the PC to another input.  Set it at the lowest
volume above "off".  Connect the mixer's output to the main amp input of the
receiver (where the pre-amp is normally connected).  Turn the audio system
on and raise the volume to your preferred listening level.  Now have your PC
play the "you've got mail" tone or message repeatedly while you adjust its
volume on the mixer to suit your needs.  You're done.

Alternatively, if you have an old receiver laying around you could connect
it to a pair of speakers and the PC.

--

Regards,
Robert L Bass

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