HD speaker connection

Hi
I've just bought a new Windows 7 PC with onboard Digital Audio (S/PDIF).
I see in System Manager that the connection method for this device is ATAPI Internal ATAPI Jack.
System Manager also highlights several Digital Audio (HDMI) devices that aren't plugged in.
My supplier says the method of connection is via the jack socket (green one) on the back of the PC.
I've told him there is no way to get multiple sound channels from a jack socket. I imagine that there should be a connection from a motherboard plug to some speaker connection sockets on the back of the PC. There's no HDMI socket either.
Please can someone advise if I'm right on this? How do your multi channel surround sound speakers connect?
I think there's something missing from my brand new PC.
Thanks
Paul

For analog audio you would need individual sockets for each channel. 7.1 audio would require 8 cables. However digital output whether it is Coaxial or optical can carry all the surround sound on one cable from one jack.

If you can post the make and model of the computer or the motherboard model if custom built I can take a deeper look.

Roger

Thanks Roger

It's a custom PC with an Asus M5A78L LE (AM3R2) motherboard.
I hope that helps you identify what connectivity might be missing.

Paul

on that motheroboard you only have the standard ports

audio jack (green)
Line in Blue
Mic in (pink)
Digital output (S/PDIF) Coaxial cable you have that but its internal 1 x S/PDIF out header(s)

your missing
Center speaker (orange)
Rear Out (greay
Side Out (white)

The easy way is to buy a sound card that has S/PDIF port built into it so you don't have to find a card specify has s/pdif port connector. I don't know if they exist. However if you want 7.1 sound you can match it with 7.1 sound card

Maybe Roger will have some suggestions. Sound is not huge on my list.

From the ASUS Website

Audio Realtek® ALC 887 8-Channel High Definition Audio CODEC *1
The *1 shows
Note *1: Use a chassis with HD audio module in the front panel to support an 8-channel audio output.

You could talk to your supplier about the case they supplied and ask for it to be changed to one that has the connectivity you want. If you do take the motherboard manual with you.

Not the best built-in sound connections I've ever seen for that motherboard.
The manual shows a spdif connection on the motherboard. If you can use that maybe the place that sold you the computer can order a connector for that to go to the back of the case or You could order from ASUS yourself.

As coxchris says I would probably just go get a inexpensive Soundblaster sound card. Pop it in and done. Just make sure it has the connectivity to your speakers you want.

Roger