Input and Output

Input and Output Devices

Input Devices

  • Input devices are hardware components that aid in the feeding of data and instructions into a computer system. They enable users to interact and feed instructions to the computer.

  • Examples of input devices include keyboards, mouses, touch screens, barcode scanners, and microphones. Each of these serve different purposes and are used in various applications.

  • A keyboard allows you to type data into the computer. It can be used to enter text, numbers, and commands.

  • A mouse is an essential input device that allows the user to control the pointer on the screen, allowing for interaction with the computer’s graphical user interface.

  • Touch screens function as both an output and an input device. The screen displays output, and users input data and instructions by touching the screen.

  • A barcode scanner is a device used in retail. It reads barcodes and inputs the data associated with the barcode (usually a product code) into the computer system.

  • Microphones are devices that capture audio and convert it into digital data that the computer can process.

Output Devices

  • Output devices are hardware components that allow a computer to convey information to the user or another device. They take data from the computer and convert it into a form that is understandable to users.

  • Examples of output devices include monitors, projectors, speakers, and printers. Different outputs are used depending on the needs of the user and the data being processed.

  • A monitor displays visual output from the computer, such as text, graphics, and videos. The quality of the output can depend on the resolution of the monitor.

  • A projector is an output device that enlarges the computer’s output onto a larger screen or wall for viewing by a larger audience.

  • Speakers translate the digital signals into analog sound waves that can be heard by the user.

  • A printer takes the digital information from the computer and generates a hard copy of that information, outputting it on paper.

Bi-directional Devices

  • Some devices can function as both input and output devices. These are known as bi-directional devices.

  • Examples of bi-directional devices include touch screens, network cards, and modems which can both send and receive data.

  • A touch screen displays visual output and also takes input from the user when they touch the screen.

  • Network cards and modems send and receive data to and from the internet, allowing the computer to interact with other devices and systems across networks.