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Computer Components: Input/Output Devices

The document discusses various computer components that can serve as input or output devices. It describes common input devices like keyboards, mice, scanners, and cameras. It also covers output devices such as monitors, speakers, and different types of printers like inkjet, laser, and dot matrix printers.

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19 views4 pages

Computer Components: Input/Output Devices

The document discusses various computer components that can serve as input or output devices. It describes common input devices like keyboards, mice, scanners, and cameras. It also covers output devices such as monitors, speakers, and different types of printers like inkjet, laser, and dot matrix printers.

Uploaded by

djamel.ouazar
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

University A.

Mira of Bejaia
Faculty of Exact Sciences.
Department of Computer Science.
Level: second year
Module: Technical English

Lesson: Computer Components ( input /output devices)

(1) Scanner: An input device that can convert the contents of a paper
document into a digital image that can be stored in the computer.
(2) CPU (Central Processing Unit) or the processor: The "brain" of the
computer where programs are run. It is one of the most expensive parts of the
hardware. Modern CPUs can perform multiple tasks simultaneously.
(3) RAM (Random Access Memory): The computer's high-speed, short-term
memory. It temporarily stores data and instructions for programs that run on
the computer.
(4) Expansion Cards: Circuit boards that can be inserted to add functionality
to a computer system (for example: network, sound, or video cards).
(5) Power Supply: Converts electricity from the wall into the form that the other
computer components use.
(6) Optical Drive: An input/output device that reads data from and writes data to
CDs and DVDs.
(7) Hard Drive: An input/output device that serves as the long-term storage
memory of the computer. There are two primary kinds: mechanical drives that
use a mechanical arm to read and write data on a rotating disk, and "solid
state" drives that have no moving parts.
(8) Motherboard: A circuit board that holds and connects various
components of the computer and allows their communication.
(9) Speaker: An input/output device that outputs sound from the computer.

(10) Monitor: An input/output device that displays information visually.


Generally, monitors are output devices where the computer visually displays
information. Touchscreens combine the functions of output and input.
(11) Keyboard: An input device on which the user can type to communicate with
the computer.
(12) Mouse: An input device that allows the user to interact with visual objects
displayed on the monitor.
(13) External Hard Drive: An input/output device that serves as an extra hard
drive used for additional or backup storage.
(14) Printer: An output device that can transfer digital data onto paper.

Input devices: type – click


Interacting with your computer:
Input devices are the pieces of hardware, which allow us to enter information into
the computer. Input device Translate data from form that humans understand to one
that the computer can work with. One of the most important devices is:
1- Keyboard:
The keyboard is used mainly for typing text on your computer.
A standard pc keyboard has various groups of keys:
a- Alphanumeric keys:
Represent letters and numbers (typewriter.)
b- Numeric keypad:
Appears to the right of keyboard and contains numeric and editing keys.
c- Function keys:
it can be programmed to do special jobs.
d- Cursor keys:
Means arrow keys which move the insertion point (page up and down), to
move around document.
e- Dedicated keys:
such as ctrl and ctrl+, caps lock (capitals mode).
2- The mouse:
Is hand held device that lets you move a pointer and select items on the screen.
Mouse actions:
a- To click: press and release the left button .
b- To double click: press and release the left button twice.
c- To drag hold down the button: move the pointer to a new place then release
the button , this action displays a list of commands.

3- Voice input:
Today, you can also interact with voice recognition system that converts
voice into text. So you dictate text directly onto your word processor
4- camera:
allows you to capture and copy images into a computer.
5- Scanner:
Is a peripheral that reads images and converts them into electronic codes which
can be understood by a computer.

Output devices
An output device is any piece of computer hardware equipment used to
communicate the result of data processing carried out by an information processing
system (such as a computer) which converts the electronically generated information
into human readable forme.

1- Screen or monitor :
A monitor displays information in visual form, using text and graphics. The portion
of the monitor that displays the information is called the screen like television
screen.a computer screen can show still or moving pictures.

2- Speaker or voicer :
Speakers are used to play sound. They may be built into the system unit or connected
with cables. Speakers allow you to listen to music and hear sound effects from the
computer.

3- Printer :
A printer is a device that prints your texts or graphics on paper.

Types of printers:
a- A dot matrix printer :
Uses a group or matrix of pins to create precise dots.
b- An ink-jet also called bubble-jet printer :
generates an image by spraying, tiny, precise drops of ink onto the paper.

c- A laser printer:
Uses a laser beam to fix the ink to the paper, a laser works as photocopier.
d- A professional image setter:
Is type setting printer that generates very high-resolution output. It is used for high-
quality.

e- A plotter:
Is a special type of printer, which uses ink and fine pens held in a carriage to draw
detailed designs on paper. It is used in computer, aided design, maps, 3D technical
illustrations…etc.

Common questions

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Expansion cards enhance a computer's functionality by providing additional features that are not present in the basic setup. They can include network, sound, or video cards, which enhance a computer's graphics capabilities, enable network connectivity, improve sound quality, or provide additional USB ports . This modularity allows users to customize their systems to meet specific needs, improving the overall versatility and performance of the computer .

RAM (Random Access Memory) serves as a computer's high-speed, short-term memory, temporarily storing data and instructions that are in active use, allowing for quick access and processing . In contrast, hard drives provide long-term storage for data, retaining information even when the computer is turned off. They store the operating system, software applications, and files . RAM is crucial for multitasking and the speed of operation, while hard drives are essential for data retention and availability of that data .

The motherboard is a central circuit board that hosts and allows communication between various components of a computer such as the CPU, RAM, storage devices, and expansion cards. It provides the necessary electrical connections and pathways for these components to send and receive data, facilitating the coordination required for integrated operations. The motherboard's design and quality can significantly influence the computer's performance and upgrade potential .

Voice input systems offer several advantages over traditional input devices. They allow for hands-free operation, which can be more convenient and efficient, especially for individuals with physical disabilities or during activities where manual use is impractical. Voice input can also speed up the data entry process for long text or commands more seamlessly than typing. Additionally, these systems can facilitate multitasking by enabling users to perform other tasks while interacting with the computer .

The power supply plays a crucial role in maintaining the functionality of a computer system by converting electrical energy from the wall outlet into the correct form and voltage levels required for the computer's different components. It regulates voltage to prevent damage from electrical surges and ensures that each part of the computer receives stable and adequate power. This is vital for the reliable operation of the hardware and the overall system stability .

Touchscreens integrate the functionalities of traditional monitors and input devices by both displaying visual information like a monitor and accepting user inputs directly through touch, similar to a mouse. This integration allows users to interact with the system by directly manipulating what is being displayed, offering an intuitive and direct way to engage with computer systems without the need for additional hardware like keyboards or mice .

Modern CPUs are capable of performing multiple tasks simultaneously through techniques such as parallel processing and multi-core architecture, which allows different parts of the CPU to handle different tasks or parts of a program simultaneously. This significantly enhances the overall performance of computers by allowing them to perform more operations in a given time period compared to older, single-core processors .

Optical drives function as both input and output devices. They read data from discs such as CDs and DVDs (input function) and can also write data onto these discs (output function). This dual capability makes optical drives versatile for tasks such as data backup, software installation, and media playback and recording .

Different types of printers serve various professional needs. Dot matrix printers are durable and cost-effective for printing multi-part forms but offer lower resolution. Ink-jet printers provide high-quality color prints and are versatile but have higher ink costs and slower print speeds. Laser printers offer fast, precise, and high-quality text printing, suitable for office environments with high volume needs. Image setters and plotters, providing very high-resolution output and detailed drawings, respectively, are essential in design and publishing industries, where precision and output quality are priorities .

Solid-state drives (SSDs) impact computer performance by significantly improving data access speed compared to mechanical hard drives. SSDs have no moving parts, which means faster data retrieval times, reduced latency, and higher reliability. This translates into quicker boot times, faster file transfers, and improved overall system responsiveness. Mechanical drives, with their movable arms and spinning disks, are generally slower and less durable, particularly under physical stress .

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