 Types of input devices:-

1. Keyboard-

I. A keyboard is an input device that allows you to type letters, numbers, and
symbols into your computer or other electronic device. It usually has a set of
keys arranged in a specific layout.
II. When you press a key on the keyboard, it sends an electrical signal to your
computer's processor, which then interprets that signal and displays the
corresponding letter or symbol on your screen.
III. Besides entering characters, computer keyboards also have special keys that
change the symbol (such as shift or caps lock or give the computer special
commands (such as the arrow keys, CTRL and ALT).
IV.Different computer operating system use different special keys or use them
differently. Special commands can also be activated through combinations
of keys, called keyboard shortcuts.For eg- ctrl+c,ctrl+v etc.
V. There are different types of keyboards. They can be based on the way the
keys work; for example, laptops have keys that do not move a lot, because
the keyboard has to be very thin in order to fit inside the laptop. On the other
hand, video game players often like keyboards with keys that move a lot, so
that they feel the key working. Gaming keyboards also need fast reaction
times.
2. Mouse-

I. A mouse is a small device that a computer user pushes across a desk surface
in order to point to a place on a display screen and to select one or more
actions to take from that position.
II. The mouse first became a widely used computer tool when Apple Computer
made it a standard part of the Apple Macintosh.
III. The mouse apparently got its name by being about the same size and color
as a toy mouse.
IV.Mouse typically has two buttons, a scroll wheel and a laser sensor. They are
used to move the cursor on the screen, select objects and click on buttons.
V. The different types of mouse are: wired, wireless, optical, mechanical, laser,
and trackball.

3. Joystick-
I. A joystick is a hand-held input device used to control the movement or
actions of a digital object on a computer screen. It typically consists of a
handle or a lever that can be tilted or pushed in different directions to
provide input to a computer or a gaming console.
II. Most modern gaming consoles, such as PlayStation and Xbox, have
universal service bus (USB) ports that allow you to connect to a joystick
directly. For PCs, joysticks are also connected via USB or sometimes
through specialized ports like game controller ports or Bluetooth.
III. In gaming, joysticks are used to control the movement of characters or
vehicles within a game. They enable you to navigate through virtual
environments, aim weapons, perform complex actions, and interact with
objects in the game world. Joysticks are popular in-flight simulators, racing
games, and other genres that require precise control.
IV.Joysticks originated as controls for aircraft ailerons and elevators, and are
first known to have been used as such on Louis Bleriot's Bleriot VIII aircraft
of 1908, in combination with a foot-operated rudder bar for the yaw control
surface on the tail.
 V. Specialist joysticks, classed as an assistive technology pointing device, are
used to replace the computer mouse for people with fairly severe physical
disabilities.

4. Scanner-

I. A scanner is an electrical device that reads and converts documents such as

photos and pages of text into a digital signal.
II. The scanner interacts with computer software applications to execute tasks.
The data from the scanner is imported into these apps. Most of the scanners
contain basic scanning software that makes users capable of configuring,
initiating, and importing scans. Scanners are also able to import scanned
images directly through various softwares.
III. Most scanners have a flat scanning surface as they are flatbed devices, which
are mainly used for scanning magazines, photographs, and numerous
documents. Furthermore, because most flatbed scanners have a cover that
lifts up, they can scan books and other heavy things.
IV.Card scanner,Drum scanner,Handheld scanner,Pen scanner,Sheetfed
scanner,Spatial digitizer are some types of scanners.
 V. The first scanner developed for use with a computer as we know it today
was created by a team led by Russell A. Kirsch at the United States National
Bureau of Standards in 1957.

5. Webcam-

I. A webcam is a digital camera that captures video and audio data and
transmits it in real-time over the internet. It is commonly used for video
conferencing, live streaming, online meetings, and recording videos.
II. Webcams are typically connected to computers or laptops via universal
serial bus (USB) ports and are often built into devices such as laptops or
external monitors.
III. A webcam consists of an image sensor, a lens, and a processor. The image
sensor captures video footage, while the lens focuses the light onto the
sensor. The processor then converts the captured information into a digital
format that can be transmitted over the internet. The webcam is connected to
a computer, which processes and displays the video feed.
IV. It is commonly used for video conferencing, live streaming, online
meetings, and recording videos.
V. First developed in 1991, a webcam was used at the Trojan Room coffee pot
 in the Cambridge University Computer Science Department.

6. Microphone-

I. A microphone is a device that converts sound waves into an electrical signal.

It allows you to capture audio and transmit it to various devices, such as
computers, amplifiers, or recording equipment.
II. A microphone consists of a diaphragm, a coil or capacitor, and a magnet.
When sound waves hit the diaphragm, it vibrates, and this vibration is
converted into an electrical signal through the interaction between the
diaphragm, coil, and magnet.
III. Different types of microphone include- dynamic microphones, condenser
microphones, ribbon microphones, lavalier microphones, and shotgun
microphones.
IV.In 1856, Italian inventor Antonio Meucci developed a dynamic microphone
based on the generation of electric current by moving a coil of wire to
various depths in a magnetic field.
V. Microphones are used in various places such as telephones, hearing aids,
public addressing systems like concert halls and public events, picture
 production, sound recording, megaphones, and radio -television
broadcasting.

7. Barcode reader-

I. A barcode reader or barcode scanner is an optical scanner that can read

printed barcodes and send the data they contain to computer.
II. A barcode reader is connected to the computer with the help of wire,
Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection.
III. Barcode readers are used in various places like retail stores, warehouses and
office buildings.
IV.A barcode reader works by directing a beam of light across a barcode
&measuring amount and pattern of the reflected light.The scanner converts
the light energy into electrical energy, which is then converted into data by
the decoder(which is located in scanner) and forwarded to a computer.
V. Barcodes were invented by Norman Joseph Woodland and Bernard Silver in
1949.
8. Light pen-

I. A light pen is a computer input device in the form of a light-sensitive pen

used in computer's display.
II. It allows the user to point to displayed objects of a computer or tablet in a
similar way to a touchscreen but with great accuracy.
III. A light pen detects changes in brightness of nearby screen pixels when
scanned by cathode-ray tube(pen like structure) and communicates the
timing of this event to the computer.
IV.A light pen is used for selecting a displayed menu item or for drawing
pictures on the monitor screen.
V. The first light pen was created around 1951–1955 as part of the Whirlwind I
project at MIT, where it was used to select symbols on the screen.

9.Touch Screen-
 I. A touch screen is an electronic display screen.
II. It works when a user interacts with the computer, tablet, smartphone or
touch-controlled appliance by using hand gestures and fingertip movements
to tap pictures, moving elements or type words on the screen.
III. A touchscreen enables the user to interact directly with what is displayed,
instead of using a mouse, touchpad, or other such devices.
IV.Touchscreens are common in devices such as smartphones, handheld game
consoles, and personal computers.
V. While teaching at the University of Kentucky in 1971, Dr. G Samuel Hurst
invented a "touch screen."

10. Optical character reader(OCR)-

 I. Optical character reader (OCR) is the electronic or mechanical conversion of
images of typed, handwritten or printed text into machine-encoded text.
II. It is Widely used as a form of data entry from printed paper such as
passport documents, invoices, bank statements, computerized receipts,
business cards, mail, printed data etc.
III. In the late 1920s and into the 1930s, Emanuel Goldberg developed what he
called a "Statistical Machine" for searching microfilm archives using an
optical code recognition system.
IV.OCR involves several stages, including pre-processing (to improve image
quality), text recognition (to identify characters), and post-processing (to
correct errors and format the text). The process helps OCR to identify text.
V. OCR also helps the user to translate text into several languages.

 Types of processing devices:-

1. GPU(grapical processing unit)-

 I. A graphics processing unit (GPU) is a computer chip that dislays graphics
and images by performing rapid mathematical calculations.
II. Originally, GPUs were responsible for displaying of 2D and 3D images,
animations and video, but now they have a wider use range.
III. GPUs work by using a method called parallel processing, where multiple
processors handle separate parts of a single task. A GPU will also have its
own RAM to store the data it is processing. This RAM is designed
specifically to hold the large amounts of information coming into the GPU
for highly intensive graphics use.
IV.It is commonly used in fields like machine learning, video editing, and
gaming applications.
V. Nvidia was the very first company to bring GPUs into the world in 1999.
The first GPU in history was known as the Geforce 256.

2. Central processing unit(CPU)-

 I. Central Processing Unit (CPU),is the brain of your computer – responsible
for carrying out all the instructions that make your computer work.
II. The CPU performs arithmetic, logic, and other operations to transform data
input into more usable information output.
III. The CPU is located on a circuit called motherboard .
IV.The CPU was invented in the late 1950s and was called the UNIVAC
1103.It was developed as part of the UNIVAC I computer.
V. The cpu is also called processor or a microprocessor.

3. Network Card-
 I. A network card, also known as a network interface card (NIC), is a hardware
component that enables a computer to connect to a network, such as a local
area network (LAN) or the internet. It manages the communication between
the computer and the network.
II. Network cards operate by converting data from the computer into a format
suitable for transmission over the network.
III. Network cards are used in a wide range of applications, including
connecting to home or office networks, accessing the internet, and
facilitating communication between devices on a network.
IV.Originally, network cards were designed to connect computers via wired
connections, such as Ethernet. Over time, they have evolved to support
various types of networks, including wireless (Wi-Fi) and high-speed
connections.
V. The first network card was developed by Xerox in the 1970s, known as the
Xerox Ethernet Interface.

4. Sound card-
I. A sound card is a hardware component that processes audio signals and
enables a computer to output sound through speakers or headphones. It
converts digital audio data into analog signals that can be heard.
II. Sound cards work by using digital-to-analog converters (DACs) to convert
digital audio data into analog signals.
III.Sound cards are used in various applications, including gaming, music
production, and multimedia playback. They enhance audio quality, enable
surround sound, and provide professional-grade audio recording and editing
capabilities.
IV.Initially, sound cards were designed to provide basic audio capabilities,
such as simple beeps and basic sound effects. Over time, they have evolved
to support high-fidelity audio, surround sound, and advanced audio
processing features.
V. The first commercially available sound card was the Creative Sound Blaster,
released in 1989.
5. Chipset-

I. A chipset is a crucial hardware component that manages communication

between the processor, memory, and peripherals in a computer. It determines
the features and capabilities of the motherboard, such as compatibility with
CPUs, RAM, and storage devices.

II. Chipsets work by controlling data flow between the CPU and external
devices like GPUs, storage drives, and network interfaces.

III. Chipsets are used in various computing environments, including desktop

PCs, laptops, and servers.

IV.Initially, chipsets provided basic functions like memory and input/output

management. Over time, they have evolved to include integrated graphics,
 network controllers, and advanced power management features for improved
performance and efficiency.

V. One of the first notable chipsets was Intel's 80486, which introduced
integrated memory and cache controllers.

 Types of output devices:-

1. Monitor-
 I. A monitor is a display hardware device that outputs visual information
from a computer, enabling users to interact with the system through a
graphical interface. It converts the computer's output into images, text, and
videos that can be viewed on the screen.

II. Monitors work by receiving video signals from the computer's graphics card,
which are processed and rendered as visual content. Depending on the
technology used, monitors display these images through different types of
panels, such as LCD, LED, or OLED.

III. Monitors are essential for a wide range of applications, including gaming,
graphic design, video editing, and general productivity.

IV.Early monitors provided basic output and had limited resolution, mostly
used for simple text and command-line interfaces. Over time, they have
evolved to support high-definition (HD) and ultra-high-definition (UHD)
resolutions, higher refresh rates, and colour accuracy improvements for
more vibrant and detailed display.

V. One of the first monitor was the IBM 5151, which was released in 1981 with
a monochrome display.

2. Projector-
I. A projector is a device that takes an image or video signal and projects it
onto a screen/surface, typically a screen or wall, allowing for a larger display
of visual content. It is commonly used in presentations, home theaters, and
educational settings.

II. Projectors work by using light sources, such as lamps or lasers, to display an
image from a digital or analog source.

III. Projectors are utilized in various applications, including business

presentations, classrooms, home entertainment, and outdoor movie
screenings. They enhance visual experiences.

IV.Initially, projectors were designed for basic film and slide presentations,
using technologies like overhead projectors and film projectors. Over time,
they have evolved to incorporate digital technologies, offering
high-definition images, 4K resolution, and advanced connectivity options.
 V. One of the first commercially successful projectors was the Kodak
Carousel, introduced in the 1960s, which used slides for presentations.

3. Printer-

I. A printer is a peripheral device that produces a physical copy of digital

documents, images, or graphics onto paper or other media.

II. Printers work by receiving data from a computer and translating it into a
format that can be printed.

III. Printers are used in various applications, including home office tasks,
professional printing services, and large-scale production.
 IV.Initially, printers were designed to produce simple text documents and basic
graphics. Over time, they have evolved to support high-resolution colour
printing, wireless connectivity, and advanced features like mobile printing.

V. One of the first commercially available printers was the dot matrix printer,
which was introduced in the 1960s. Modern printers, such as inkjet, HP,
Canon, and Epson offer faster speeds and better quality.

4. Speaker-
 I. A speaker is a hardware component that converts electrical audio signals
into sound waves, allowing us to hear music, dialogue, and other audio
content through various devices, such as computers, televisions, and mobile
phones.

II. Speakers work by using an electromagnet that vibrates a diaphragm, creating

sound waves. This process involves converting electrical energy into
mechanical energy, which produces audible sound.

III. Speakers are used in various applications, including home audio systems,
public address systems, and portable devices. They enhance audio
experiences for music, movies, gaming, and communication, providing clear
and pleasant sound.

IV.Initially, speakers were designed to produce simple sounds with limited

frequency response. Over time, they have evolved to support a wide range of
frequencies, higher power handling, and advanced technologies like
Bluetooth connectivity.

V. The first commercial speakers were large, bulky designs used to broadcast
radio in the early 20th century.

5. Headphones-
I. Headphones are audio output devices that allow users to listen to sound
privately, typically consisting of two speakers connected by a band worn
over the head or around the neck.

II. Headphones work by using drivers to convert electrical energy into sound.
The most common types are dynamic, planar magnetic, and electrostatic,
each offering different sound characteristics and performance levels.

III. Headphones are used in various applications, including music listening,

gaming, video conferencing, and professional audio monitoring.

IV.Initially, headphones were designed for basic audio playback, often with
limited frequency response and sound quality. Over time, they have evolved
to include features like noise cancellation, wireless connectivity, and
advanced audio processing for richer sound experiences.
 V. The first commercial headphones were developed in the early 20th century
for telephone operators, but Sony Walkman headphones introduced in the
late 1970s,revolutionized portable music listening.

6. Plotter-

I. A plotter is a type of printer used for producing high-quality, large-scale

graphics and drawings, often used in engineering, architecture, and design.
Unlike traditional printers that use dots to create images, plotters draw
continuous lines.

II. Plotters work by utilizing either pen or inkjet technology to move a writing
instrument across the surface of the material, such as paper or vinyl. The
movement is controlled by a computer, which sends commands to create
precise drawings and graphics.

III. Plotters are used in various applications, including computer-aided design

(CAD), architectural blueprints, and maps.
 IV.Initially, plotters were designed for simple line drawings and often used pens
to create designs. Over time, they have evolved to support colour printing,
larger formats, and advanced features like high-resolution output and
automatic media loading.

V. The first commercially successful plotter was the HP 7470, introduced in

the 1970s, which used a pen to draw graphics on paper. Modern plotters,
such as the HP Design Jet series, offer advanced capabilities, including
large-format printing and faster speed.

7. Braille Display-

I. A Braille display is a device that enables visually impaired individuals to

read text by translating digital text into Braille characters. It consists of a
series of small pins that move up and down to form Braille cells, allowing
users to read line by line.

II. Braille displays work by using a combination of software and hardware to

convert digital text from a computer or mobile device into Braille. The text
 is sent to the display via USB or Bluetooth, and the display mechanism
raises and lowers the pins to create the appropriate Braille characters.

III. Braille displays are used in various applications, including reading e-books,
accessing websites, and using software applications. They provide a way for
individuals with visual impairments to interact with digital content,
enhancing reading accessibility and independence.

IV.Initially, Braille displays were simple devices with limited functionality,

often featuring just a few cells for basic reading. Over time, they have
evolved to support larger displays and advanced features like note-taking
capabilities and integrated speech output.

V. The first commercially successful Braille display was developed in the

1980s.

8. Virtual reality(VR)-
 I. Virtual Reality is a technology that creates immersive, computer-generated
environments that simulate real or imagined worlds. It enables users to
interact with these environments through specialized hardware, such as VR
headsets, gloves, or controllers.

II. VR systems work by using sensors, displays, and controllers to track user
movements and provide a responsive, 3D virtual experience. The system
adjusts the visual and auditory output in real-time based on the user's
actions, creating the illusion of being inside the virtual world.

III. VR is used in various applications, including gaming, education, medical

training, architecture, and virtual tourism. It enhances user engagement by
providing immersive experiences that can replicate real-world environments
or create entirely new, interactive settings.

IV.Initially, VR technology was limited by low-resolution graphics and slow

response times. Over time, VR has evolved to include high-definition
displays, advanced motion tracking, and more realistic haptic feedback,
resulting in smoother and more immersive experiences.

V. The first commercially successful VR headset was the Oculus Rift, released
in 2016.

9. Global positioning system(GPS)-

I. GPS (Global Positioning System) in computers is a feature that receives
satellite signals to determine precise geographic location. It allows a
computer or device to provide location-based services and navigation data.

II. GPS works by using satellites in space to transmit signals to GPS receivers
in computers. The receiver calculates its location by triangulating the signals
from at least four satellites to output longitude, latitude, and altitude
coordinates.

III. GPS in computers is used in various applications, including mapping,

navigation and location-based services. It enables features like real-time
tracking, turn-by-turn navigation, and location-aware searches.

IV.Initially, GPS technology in computers was limited to external devices like

USB GPS dongles. Over time, it has evolved with integrated GPS chips in
laptops, tablets, and smartphones, providing faster and more accurate
location services.

V. The first GPS module for consumer computers was introduced in the 1990s.
Modern GPS-enabled devices use technologies like Assisted GPS (A-GPS)
 and integrate with mapping software like Google Maps, offering real-time,
high-precision location data.

10. Digital singage-

I. Digital signage is an output device used to display multimedia content such

as images, videos, and information in digital form on large screens. It is
commonly employed in public spaces to communicate with audiences.
II. Digital signage systems work by receiving content from a connected
computer or media player, which processes and sends the visual data to be
displayed. The content can be controlled and updated remotely through
specialized software.

III. Digital signage is used in a variety of applications, including advertising,

public announcement, and interactive displays. It enhances communication,
increases customer engagement, and provides a visually appealing method to
deliver information.

IV.Initially, digital signage provided basic display functions like showing static
images or text. Over time, it has evolved to support high-resolution video,
interactive touchscreens.

V. One of the first digital signage systems emerged in the 1990s with basic
LED displays for public information. Modern systems, such as 4K and 8K
digital displays, support advanced features like AI-driven content
management.