How to connect microphone to laptop 'combo' headset/mic socket?

[mitaux8030]

Got a 'new' second-hand Dell laptop the other day - no documentation with it either. There's one 'combo' socket for headphones / headset & mic. I'd like to use the microphone function of this socket - what sort of connector and what pin of the connector be used for that?
I tried a 4-pin (tip-ring-ring-sleeve TRRS) 3.5mm audio connector headset, but the laptop didn't seem to respond other than to route audio through the headset earphone, no microphone input detected.

[Tiny]

The answer to the same question in the forum link above suggests the pinout is same as Apple
Which is this one

For more variations see here

Also you may have to enable the mic in Dell Audio settings as per this thread,

Hope that helps.

[tristen]

Dell have a very comprehensive website where you can access drivers, user manuals, specifications and other details for all their computer products.

Use a search engine to find the appropriate URL's using the computer's model number in the search criteria.

Simple!

[mitaux8030]

Thank you fellas. Looks like my headset has the mic & common pins swapped - it's an old one. I just need the mic to provide a method of recording, so it might be easiest to just make up a little adaptor fly lead.

[dashinson]

Might be easier to by a USB Microphone.

Dash.