Input, Output and Storage

Input Devices:

Input devices are crucial for entering data and instructions into a computer. Examples include keyboards and mice.
Other types of input devices include touch screens, cameras, microphones, scanners, and bar code readers.
Gaming devices such as joysticks and game pads are also examples of input devices.
They allow users to interact with the computer and run commands.

Output Devices:

Output devices display information that has been processed in a form that humans can understand.
Key types include monitors and printers.
Speakers, projectors, and headphones are other examples of output devices.
Some devices can be both input and output devices, such as touch screens.

Storage Devices:

These are used to save, retrieve, and store data, instructions, and information.
There are two types of storage: primary and secondary. Primary (RAM) is fast and directly accessible but volatile, whilst secondary (hard drive or solid state drive) is slower but non-volatile.
Examples include hard discs, SSDs, USB flash drives, and DVDs.
Storage devices can be either internal (inside the computer system) or external (like an external hard drive or flash drive).

Understanding the function and utility of these components is key to understanding the interactivity and architecture of computer systems, vital knowledge for those familiarising themselves with computer science. Additionally, awareness of newer technologies and their impact on the evolution of these hardware components will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

When revising this topic, it is recommended to not just focus on the factual information, such as definition or function, but also consider how these components interact in a complete system.