Headset microphones help to reduce feedback from the computer speakers.Thinkstock Images/Comstock/Getty ImagesMicrosoft Office PowerPoint allows you to record narration for the slides in the presentation. Then, you can save and send the PowerPoint file with your narration included. But if the recorded audio is filled with static, the presentation won't make a good impression on the listeners. You can reduce static in your recording by using the Windows Recording Audio troubleshooter to pinpoint the problem. Static can come from the microphone, the connection to the computer or even from radio interference in the area.
Click "Start," type "troubleshooting" and press "Enter." Click "Troubleshoot Audio Recording."
Identify hardware issues. Click "Start," type "Sound" and click "Sound" under Control Panel. Connect your headphones to the headphone jack on your computer. Click on the "Recording" tab and then click to select your microphone. Click "Properties" and then click on the "Listen" tab. Click the check box next to "Listen to This Device" and then click "Apply." Speak into your microphone to listen for any static or other problems. If you have a wired microphone, move the cord of the mic while you talk and listen for static. If the static changes or increases due to you moving the cord, the cord is defective and the microphone needs to be replaced. If the movement of the plug in the jack causes the static, then the issue might be with your computer's sound card connection.
Test for radio interference by bringing a radio-transmitting device, like a cellphone, close to the microphone. The interference static will have a rhythmic nature to it, rather than a consistent hum or buzz. You can get shielded cables for your external microphone to reduce radio interference. You can also do your PowerPoint recordings away from radio-transmitting devices. Such devices include cellphones, BlueTooth devices, cordless phones and microwaves, among others.
Remove as many sources of ambient noise as you can before you record the narrations in PowerPoint. Fans are one of the most pervasive sources of noise, which can be difficult to escape since nearly all computers use fans to keep them cool. A foam muff on a microphone can filter out ambient noise and wind noise. Use a uni-directional microphone, if possible, so that it only captures sound from one direction. When you point the microphone directly at your mouth, the rest of the noise in the room will fade dramatically.
James Wood is a professional writer whose work has appeared in "The Bridge" at Harding University and in the book "People of Purpose." His work experience has spanned the gamut of the computer world, from sales and support to training and repair. He is also an accomplished public speaker, PowerPoint presenter and has traveled extensively in the U.S. and Europe.
