How do I use the headset jack on my computer to pick up a standalone mic?

[jdmthelizardking]

I have a Dell Latitude E7240 with a headset jack that can pick up microphones attached to headphones. I want to use a standalone mic to input to the computer but am having some trouble. My setup is Mic XLR output ->1/4"mono-> 3.5mm stereo which I plug into the computer. I expect that the problem is the computer expecting the mic to be on the 3rd band of a 3.5mm input, but my mic is on the other two bands. Is it possible to tell the computer to look at the other bands to pick up the mic signal?

Thanks!

 

[Aeacus]

You need to change the audio input device within audio control. Here's short video on how to do it under Win 10,
youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVH9fSZNGkQ

If you use Win 7 (as i do) or some other OS, notify me and i'll give a link to a proper video.