# Covox Speech Thing > external audio hardware that outputs digital sound **Wikidata**: [Q1138143](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1138143) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Covox_Speech_Thing) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/covox-speech-thing ## Summary The Covox Speech Thing is an external audio hardware device that outputs digital sound, functioning as a sound card with its inception in 1986. ## Key Facts - It is classified as an external audio hardware device that outputs digital sound. - The device was introduced in 1986. - It functions as a sound card, providing audio input and output capabilities. - It is categorized under expansion cards designed for audio signal processing. - The hardware is specifically designed to interface with computer systems for audio functionality. - It is listed among notable sound card models alongside other historical audio devices. ## FAQs ### Q: What is the primary function of the Covox Speech Thing? A: The primary function of the Covox Speech Thing is to provide external audio output in digital format for computer systems, functioning as an expansion card that enhances a computer's audio capabilities. ### Q: When was the Covox Speech Thing first introduced? A: The Covox Speech Thing was first introduced in 1986, representing an early example of external audio hardware for computers. ### Q: What makes it different from integrated sound cards? A: The Covox Speech Thing operates as an external device rather than an integrated component, providing dedicated audio output functionality through a separate hardware unit connected to the computer. ### Q: What technical capabilities does it offer? A: As an audio hardware device, it outputs digital sound and functions as an audio interface, facilitating the conversion and playback of digital audio signals through external speakers or headphones. ## Why It Matters The Covox Speech Thing represents an early example of external audio hardware that expanded the capabilities of personal computers by providing dedicated digital sound output. Before integrated sound solutions became standard, such devices were crucial for enabling computers to produce richer audio experiences. This innovation helped transform computers from purely computational tools into multimedia devices capable of playing digital sound, which was particularly important for early computer gaming and multimedia applications. The device's role in the evolution of computer audio technology demonstrates how external hardware could significantly enhance a computer's functionality when integrated sound capabilities were limited or absent. ## Notable For * Being one of the earliest external audio hardware devices designed to output digital sound * Functioning as a sound card with its inception in 1986 * Serving as an expansion card that enhanced computer audio capabilities * Operating as an audio interface for computer systems * Being categorized among notable sound card models alongside other historical audio devices * Contributing to the evolution of computer multimedia capabilities ## Body ### Definition and Function The Covox Speech Thing is an external audio hardware device designed to output digital sound. It functions as a sound card, providing dedicated audio output capabilities that enhance computer systems with digital sound processing. The device operates as an expansion card that connects to a computer to add specialized audio functionality. ### Technical Architecture The Covox Speech Thing is classified as an external audio hardware unit that converts digital signals into analog sound for output through speakers or headphones. It functions as an audio interface, facilitating the interaction between computer-generated digital audio and external audio equipment. The hardware is specifically engineered to handle digital-to-analog conversion and sound amplification. ### Historical Context The Covox Speech Thing represents an early example of external audio hardware that emerged during the 1980s when integrated sound capabilities in computers were limited. As computers began to incorporate more multimedia features, external devices like the Speech Thing provided crucial audio enhancement capabilities. The device's 1986 inception places it among the pioneering sound cards that helped establish the foundation for modern computer audio technology. ### Technical Specifications and Capabilities The Covox Speech Thing is designed to process digital audio signals and convert them into analog sound output. It functions as a dedicated audio interface that connects to computer systems through appropriate ports, typically providing enhanced sound quality compared to built-in computer speakers. The device's capabilities include digital sound processing and amplification, enabling it to produce clearer and more powerful audio output. ### Related Products and Models The Covox Speech Thing is listed among notable sound card models alongside other historical audio devices from different manufacturers and eras. It appears in the same category as other expansion cards that provided audio functionality, including devices like the Roland LAPC-I, Moonsound, and various Creative Technology sound cards. The device represents a specific implementation of the sound card concept that emerged during the early days of personal computing. ### Identifiers and Classification The Covox Speech Thing is categorized as an expansion card with the specific function of providing audio output. It carries multiple identifiers that classify it within the broader sound card ecosystem: - Inception year: 1986 - Function: external audio hardware that outputs digital sound - Classification: sound card - Technical role: audio interface - Hardware type: expansion card ### Impact on Computer Audio Evolution The Covox Speech Thing played a significant role in the evolution of computer audio capabilities during the 1980s. By providing external digital sound output, it helped bridge the gap between computers and multimedia applications. The device's introduction marked an important step in the development of computer sound technology, influencing subsequent generations of audio hardware and contributing to the broader adoption of sound capabilities in personal computing. ## References 1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013