Output Devices
Characteristics of Output Devices
- Output devices: display or produce the results of data processing from a computer system e.g.:
- Monitor
- Printer
- Speakers
- Projector
Differences between Input & Output Devices
- Input devices send data or instructions to the computer, while output devices receive data from the computer
- Input devices are used for user interaction and data entry, while output devices display or produce the results of data processing
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Monitor |
Displaying computer-generated visual information on a screen |
Real-time display, adjustable settings |
Power consumption, potential glare |
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Touch Screen (Output) |
Displaying visual information and allowing user interaction with the screen |
Intuitive, space-saving |
Susceptible to smudges, potential calibration issues |
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Multimedia Projector |
Projecting computer-generated images and videos onto a larger surface |
Large display, good for presentations |
Requires darkened room, expensive bulbs |
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Laser Printer |
Printing high-quality text and graphics quickly |
Fast, high-quality prints, lower cost per page |
Expensive initial cost, limited to flat surfaces |
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Inkjet Printer |
Printing text and graphics using liquid ink |
Lower initial cost, high-quality prints |
Slower, higher cost per page, ink may smudge |
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Dot Matrix Printer |
Printing text and simple graphics using a print head that strikes an ink-soaked ribbon |
Low cost, can print multi-part forms |
Noisy, low print quality |
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Plotter |
Creating large-format graphics, such as architectural plans and engineering designs |
High accuracy, can print on various materials |
Slow, expensive, large size |
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3D Printer |
Creating three-dimensional objects by adding material layer by layer |
Customisable designs, rapid prototyping |
Limited materials, slow process |
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Speaker |
Converting digital audio signals into sound |
Range of sizes and power outputs, immersive audio |
Can be power-hungry, the sound quality varies |
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Actuator |
Converting electrical signals into physical movement, e.g., motors and valves in robotics |
Precise movement, programmable |
Requires power, potential mechanical wear |
Holographic imaging
- Holographic imaging is a technique that creates three-dimensional images by recording and reconstructing light waves
- These images provide a realistic and immersive visual experience
- This could be used in medicine to create:
- MRI scan images
- Ultrasound images
- 3D views of our internal organs
Worked example
Complete the following sentences using the most appropriate items from the list below.
| A 3D printer | An ADC | A compiler | An interpreter | A microphone |
| A monitor | A numeric keypad | A speaker | A switch | A USB |
a. ________ is a device used to input a pin
[1]
A numeric keypad [1]
b. ________ analyses and executes a program line by line
[1]
An interpreter [1]
c. ________ produces output in the form of solid objects
[1]
A 3D printer [1]
d. ________ produces output in the form of sound
[1]
A speaker [1]
Exam Tip
- Make sure you know which printer is which. Some people get mixed up between dot matrix and laser
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Detail is needed in the description in order to achieve full marks. Relating the answer back to the scenario is important as some printers would not work in the given scenario
