Input Devices
1. Barcode Reader
A barcode reader uses a laser light to scan the pattern of black and white bars on a barcode.
The light reflected from the white spaces is detected by sensors and converted into digital
data representing the code.
2. QR Code Reader
A QR code reader uses a camera or imaging device to capture a QR code. Software
analyses the two-dimensional pattern of black and white squares and decodes it into digital
information, such as a website link or text.
3. Digital Camera
A digital camera captures images using an electronic sensor (CCD or CMOS) instead of film.
The sensor converts light into electrical signals, which are processed and stored as a digital
image file.
4. Keyboard
A keyboard is an input device with a matrix of keys, each linked to a unique ASCII code.
When a key is pressed, it completes a circuit and sends a binary signal representing that
character to the computer.
5. Optical Mouse
An optical mouse uses a light source (LED or laser) and a sensor to detect movement by
taking many images of the surface. The differences between images are processed to calculate
the movement and direction, which moves the cursor on the screen.
6. Microphone
A microphone converts sound waves into electrical signals by using a diaphragm that
vibrates when sound hits it. The analogue signals are then converted into digital data using an
ADC for storage or processing.
7. 2D Scanner
A 2D scanner shines light onto a document and measures the reflected light using sensors
(CCD or CIS). The reflected light is converted into digital form, creating a scanned image.
8. 3D Scanner
A 3D scanner uses lasers or structured light to capture the shape and surface of an object.
The data is converted into a 3D digital model that can be used in CAD or 3D printing.
9. Touch Screen
A touch screen is both an input and output device that allows the user to interact directly with
what is shown on screen. It detects touch through methods such as capacitive, resistive, or
infrared sensors, converting touch position into x–y coordinates.
Output Devices
10. Actuator
An actuator is an output device that converts electrical signals into physical movement. It is
often used with sensors and microprocessors to control mechanisms like motors or valves.
11. Light Projector
A multimedia projector receives video signals from a computer and projects the image onto a
large screen using light and lenses. It uses either LCD or DLP technology to form images.
12. Printer (Inkjet, Laser, 3D)
● Inkjet Printer: Sprays tiny droplets of ink onto paper to form images or text.
● Laser Printer: Uses a laser beam to produce an image on a drum, attracting toner that
is fused onto paper by heat.
● 3D Printer: Builds solid 3D objects by adding material layer by layer using data from a
3D CAD model.
13. LED and LCD Screen
● LCD (Liquid Crystal Display): Uses liquid crystals that control the passage of light
from a backlight, forming images on the screen.
● LED (Light Emitting Diode) Display: Uses LEDs either as a backlight or as individual
pixels, producing brighter, thinner, and more efficient displays.
14. Speaker
A speaker converts digital audio signals into sound. The computer sends the signal through
a DAC (Digital-to-Analogue Converter), which drives a vibrating diaphragm to produce
sound waves.
15. Sensors
Sensors detect physical changes (e.g. temperature, light, motion) and convert them into
electrical signals. These analogue signals are converted to digital data using an ADC,
allowing the computer to process or respond to the input.