Input & output

• What is the purpose of an input device?

  To pass information from the outside world into a computer system
• Name a few typical input devices.

  A mouse, a keyboard, a microphone
• What is an output device?

  A device that converts data stored in digital form into a format that humans can process
• Give examples of output devices.

  A visual display unit, a printer, headphones
• What is a storage device?

  A device used for either temporary or permanent storage of data
• What are examples of internal storage devices?

  Main memory (RAM), solid state hard drive, magnetic hard drive
• Name some typical external storage devices.

  An optical disk, a USB pen, an external hard drive
• Why might a gaming controller be considered both an input and output device?

  It translates button presses into digital signals and has built-in speakers for audio feedback
• What is an embedded system in the context of a gaming controller?

  A system that has its own processor to process data before sending it to the console
• What should you do if asked about the classification of a gaming controller in an exam?

  Justify your answer by explaining its functions as both an input and output device
• What are the typical input, output, and storage devices you might need to know for an exam?

  • Input Devices: Mouse, keyboard, microphone, barcode scanner, webcam
  • Output Devices: Visual display unit, printer, projector, headphones, speakers
  • Storage Devices: Internal (RAM, solid state hard drive, magnetic hard drive) and external (optical disk, USB pen, memory card, external hard drive)
• How might a cash point system utilize input devices?

  It uses a card reader, keypad, buttons, and a security camera
• What output devices are found in a cash point system?

  A monitor, a printer for receipts, and a speaker for audio feedback
• What is inferred about the storage devices in a cash point system?

  There is likely some form of internal secondary storage and main memory
• What is an input device?

  Hardware components that allow users to interact with a computer system
• What is the primary function of an input device?

  To enable the user to give data/information to the computer system
• How does a keyboard function as an input device?

  It allows input of text by pressing keys
• What is an example of an input device that allows navigation on a screen?

  Mouse
• What type of input does a microphone provide?

  Audio input
• What is a biometric device used for?

  Fingerprint scanning
• What type of input does a webcam provide?

  Video input
• What are the main types of input devices mentioned?

  • Keyboard: input text by pressing keys
  • Mouse: navigate screen, click items
  • Microphone: audio input
  • Biometric device: fingerprint scanner
  • Webcam: video input
• What is an output device?

  Hardware components that receive info from a computer system and present it to the user in a readable form.
• What is the primary function of an output device?

  To enable a computer to communicate the results of processed data.
• What are some examples of output devices?

  • Monitor: Displays visual output including text, images, and videos.
  • Printer: Produces a hard copy of digital documents.
  • Speakers: Output audio from the computer.
  • Projector: Conveys the computer's display onto a large screen or wall.
  • Braille display: Outputs information in braille.
• What does a monitor do?

  Displays visual output from a computer including text, images, and videos.
• What is the function of a printer?

  Produces a hard copy of digital documents.
• What do speakers do as an output device?

  Output audio from the computer.
• What is the purpose of a projector?

  Conveys the computer's display onto a large screen or wall.
• What does a Braille display output?

  Information in braille.
• What is the first factor to consider when choosing a device?

  User needs
• Why is it important to consider the tasks a user is performing when choosing a device?

  Because different tasks require different types of devices
• What device might a designer prefer?

  Graphics tablet
• How do user skills influence device choice?

  User comfort can vary based on skills and preferences
• What is an example of a user skill preference?

  Some users prefer touchscreen
• What environmental factor should be considered when choosing a device?

  Where the device will be used
• Why might a wireless mouse be preferred in an office environment?

  It offers convenience and flexibility in movement
• How does cost relate to device features?

  Higher-end devices typically have more features and are more expensive
• What happens to the cost as the features of a device increase?

  The cost increases
• What factors should be considered when choosing a device for a specific user?

  • User needs: tasks being performed
  • User skills: comfort and preferences
  • Environment: where the device will be used
  • Cost: relationship between features and price