Output Devices
What is an output device?
Output devices are hardware components that receive information from a
computer system and present it to the user in an understandable form
They enable the computer to communicate the results of processed
data or commands
Types of output devices
Name of device What does it do? Where is it used? Why is it used?
Converts energy into motion
Make a robot's
Makes things move
arm move Essential in any system
Performs physical tasks based on
Actuator Open a valve that requires movement
instructions from a computer or
Rotate a motor
control system
Cinemas
Projects images onto a screen
Digital Light Classrooms
Shows images or video by shining High-quality images
Processing (DLP) Large
light through tiny mirrors
projector presentations
Home
Prints text and images onto paper by Low cost compared to
Schools
Inkjet printer spraying tiny droplets of ink other types of printer
Offices
Heat from a laser fuses toner (fine Offices High-quality prints
Laser printer powder) onto paper Schools Fast print speed
Televisions High-quality images
Displays images and video using Computer Bright
Light Emitting
tiny lights called LEDs monitors Energy efficient
Diode (LED) screen
Smartphones Thin
Projects images or video onto a Offices Bright
Liquid Crystal
screen by shining light through Classrooms Excellent balance of
Display (LCD)
liquid crystal panels Home cinemas quality and affordability
projector
Televisions Energy efficient
Liquid Crystal Displays images and video using Monitors Thin
Display (LCD) liquid crystals with a backlight Smartphones Sharp images
screen Laptops Lightweight
Televisions
Converts electrical signals into Multiple shapes and
Radios
Speaker analogue sound waves to play music sizes
Smartphones
Manufacturing
Adds thin layers of plastic, one on
Medicine Create prototypes
top of another to form a three
3d printer Education Custom parts
dimensional object Home
Choosing the right device
When recommending a device for a specific situation, consider the following factors:
User Needs
o 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
o 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
o 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
o Higher-end devices often have more features but are also more
expensive. Consider the budget and whether the extra features are worth
the cost