Input devices are hardware components that allow users to interact with a computer system
They enable the user to input data or commands into the system, which the computer then processes to produce output
Types of input devices
Name of device
Description
Keyboard
The most common input device. It allows users to input text and commands by pressing keys
Mouse
Allows users to navigate the computer screen, click on items, and perform other functions
Touchscreen
Found on smartphones, tablets, and some computers, touchscreens allow users to interact with the device by touching the screen
Microphone
Captures audio input, which can be used for voice commands, recording audio, or video conferencing
Webcam
Captures video input, often used for video conferencing or recording videos
Scanner
Digitises physical documents or images, converting them into a format that the computer can process
Game Controller
Used primarily for video games, these devices allow users to control game characters and interact with the gaming environment
Graphics Tablet
Allows artists and designers to draw or sketch directly onto a computer. It’s particularly useful for graphic design, 3D modelling, and other visual creative tasks
Biometric Devices
These devices, such as fingerprint scanners or facial recognition systems, are used for security purposes to verify a user’s identity
Barcode Reader
Scans barcodes, typically used in retail and inventory management
Joystick
Often used for computer games, especially flight simulators. It allows the user to control movement more fluidly than with a keyboard or mouse
What is an output device?
Output devices are hardware components that receive information from a computer system and present it to the user in a comprehensible form
They enable the computer to communicate the results of processed data or commands
Types of output devices
Name of device
Description
Monitor
This is the most common output device. It displays visual output from the computer, including text, images, and videos
Printer
Produces a hard copy of digital documents or images. There are various types of printers, including inkjet, laser, and 3D printers
Speakers
Output audio from the computer, such as music, sound effects, or voice
Headphones
Similar to speakers, headphones output audio directly to the user, providing a more personal and potentially immersive experience
Projector
Projects the computer’s display onto a large screen or wall, useful for presentations or movie viewing
Braille Display
This specialised device outputs information in Braille, allowing visually impaired users to read text from the computer
Plotter
Used for printing large, high-quality diagrams and designs, often used in engineering or architecture
Virtual Reality (VR) Headset
Provides an immersive visual and audio output, primarily used for gaming and virtual simulations
Computer-Controlled Machinery
In manufacturing or robotics, computers often output commands directly to machinery to control their operation
Choosing the right device
When recommending a device for a specific situation, consider the following factors:
User needs
What tasks will the user be performing? A graphic designer might need a graphics tablet, while a data entry clerk might need a keyboard with a number pad
User skills
Is the user comfortable with the device? A touch screen might be more intuitive for some users, while others might prefer a mouse and keyboard
Environment
Where will the device be used? A wireless mouse might be suitable for a clutter-free office, while a wired mouse might be better for a public computer lab to prevent theft
Cost
Higher-end devices often have more features but are also more expensive. Consider the budget and whether the extra features are worth the cost