Really confused here:
OP said:
Say i wanted to hook up my headset to my computers microphone jack
Let's just say you want to connect the headset to the computer. So far, so good.
Step 1: What kind of input/output does the headset have?
Step 2: For reference: The computer uses Stereo miniature phone plugs. They will have three distict ares to make contact. Those plugs also some in a mono version. Various adapters are available. The same type is used for the mic and headphones.
Step 3: For reference: Headphone come in low impeadance (8 ohms) and high impeadance (Around 600 ohms) The computer uses the High Z variety.
Step 4: For reference: Shielded cables should be used for the mic. The shield coverage comes in units of percent and it comes in braid or foil. Foil will not be as flexible.
Step 5: For reference: Some mics are powered. Especially Electret mics. They can be "Phantom powered". No specific power connection.
Step 5: We need to know something about your headphones. If the headphones have a 1/4" phone plug and you use them for your stereo, most likely they won't work.
Step 6: Link to the specs or model of your headset. I need the types of plugs used and the specifications of the mic and phones.
The reference to an optical cable, probably TOSLink means we are dealing with something unusual.
Take a look at the back panel of this device:
**broken link removed** It kinda gives you an idea of audio signal varieties.
Here en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Headphones it does say for 10-32 and 100- 600 ohm headsets for headsets. I belive the PC uses the high Z ones.