Input Devices

Input device enables the user to send data, information, or control signals to
a computer. The Central Processing Unit (CPU) of a computer receives the
input and processes it to produce the output.

Some of the popular input devices are:

1. Keyboard
2. Mouse
3. Scanner
4. Joystick
5. Light Pen
6. Digitizer
7. Microphone
8. Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR)
9. Optical Character Reader (OCR)
10. Digital Camera
11. Paddle
12. Steering Wheel
13. Gesture recognition devices
14. Light Gun
15. Touch Pad
16. Remote
17. Touch screen
18. VR
19. Webcam
20. Biometric Devices

1) Keyboard
The keyboard is a basic input device that is used to enter data into a
computer or any other electronic device by pressing keys. It has different
sets of keys for letters, numbers, characters, and functions. Keyboards are
connected to a computer through USB or a Bluetooth device for wireless
communication.

Types of keyboards: There can be different types of keyboards based on

the region and language used. Some of the common types of keyboards are
as follows:

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i) QWERTY Keyboard:

It is the most commonly used keyboard with computers in modern times. It is

named after the first six letters of the top row of buttons and is even popular
in countries that do not use Latin-based alphabet. It is so popular that some
people think that it is the only type of keyboard to use with computers as an
input device.

ii) AZERTY Keyboard:

It is considered the standard French keyboard. It is developed in France as

an alternative layout to the QWERTY layout and is mainly used in France and
other European countries. Some countries have manufactured their own
versions of AZERTY.
Its name is derived from the first six letters that appear on the top left row of
the keyboard. The Q and W keys in AZERTY keyboard are interchanged with
A and Z keys in QWERTY keyboard. Furthermore, in AZERTY keyboard M key
is located to the left of the L key.

AZERTY keyboard differs from QWERTY keyboard not only in the placement
of letters but also in many other ways, e.g., it gives emphasis on accents,
which is required for writing European languages like French.

iii) DVORAK Keyboard:

This type of keyboard layout was developed to increase the typing speed by
reducing the finger movement while typing. The most frequently used letters
are kept in a home row to improve typing.

2) Mouse
The mouse is a hand-held input device which is used to move cursor or
pointer across the screen. It is designed to be used on a flat surface and
generally has left and right button and a scroll wheel between them. Laptop
computers come with a touchpad that works as a mouse. It lets you control
the movement of cursor or pointer by moving your finger over the touchpad.
Some mouse comes with integrated features such as extra buttons to
perform different buttons.

The mouse was invented by Douglas C. Engelbart in 1963. Early mouse had a
roller ball integrated as a movement sensor underneath the device. Modern
mouse devices come with optical technology that controls cursor movements
by a visible or invisible light beam. A mouse is connected to a computer
through different ports depending on the type of computer and type of a
mouse.

Common types of the mouse:

i) Trackball Mouse:
It is a stationary input device that has ball mechanism to move the pointer or
cursor on the screen. The ball is half inserted in the device and can be easily
rolled with finger, thumb or the palm to move the pointer on the screen. The
device has sensor to detect the rotation of ball. It remains stationary; you
don't need to move it on the operating surface. So, it is an ideal device if you
have limited desk space as you don't need to move it like a mouse.

ii) Mechanical Mouse:

It has a system of a ball and several rollers to track its movement. It is a

corded type of mouse. A mechanical mouse can be used for high
performance. The drawback is that they tend to get dust into the mechanics
and thus require regular cleaning.

iii) Optical Mouse:

An optical mouse uses optical electronics to track its movement. It is more
reliable than a mechanical mouse and also requires less maintenance.
However, its performance is affected by the surface on which it is operated.
Plain non-glossy mouse mat should be used for best results. The rough
surface may cause problems for the optical recognition system, and the
glossy surface may reflect the light wrongly and thus may cause tracking
issues.

iv) Cordless or Wireless Mouse:

As the name suggests, this type of mouse lacks cable and uses wireless
technology such as IrDA (infrared) or radio (Bluetooth or Wi-Fi) to control the
movement of the cursor. It is used to improve the experience of using a
mouse. It uses batteries for its power supply.

3) Scanner
The scanner uses the pictures and pages of text as input. It scans the picture
or a document. The scanned picture or document then converted into a
digital format or file and is displayed on the screen as an output. It uses
optical character recognition techniques to convert images into digital ones.
Some of the common types of scanners are as follows:

Types of Scanner:

i) Flatbed Scanner:

It has a glass pane and a moving optical CIS or CCD array. The light
illuminates the pane, and then the image is placed on the glass pane. The
light moves across the glass pane and scans the document and thus
produces its digital copy. You will need a transparency adapter while
scanning transparent slides.

ii) Handheld Scanner:

It is a small manual scanning device which is held by hand and is rolled over
a flat image that is to be scanned. The drawback in using this device is that
the hand should be steady while scanning; otherwise, it may distort the
image. One of the commonly used handheld scanners is the barcode scanner
which you would have seen in shopping stores.

iii) Sheetfed Scanner:

In this scanner, the document is inserted into the slot provided in the
scanner. The main components of this scanner include the sheet-feeder,
scanning module, and calibration sheet. The light does not move in this
scanner. Instead, the document moves through the scanner. It is suitable for
scanning single page documents, not for thick objects like books, magazines,
etc.

iv) Drum Scanner:

Drum scanner has a photomultiplier tube (PMT) to scan images. It does not
have a charge-coupled device like a flatbed scanner. The photomultiplier
tube is extremely sensitive to light. The image is placed on a glass tube, and
the light moves across the image, which produces a reflection of the image
which is captured by the PMT and processed. These scanners have high
resolution and are suitable for detailed scans.
v) Photo Scanner:

It is designed to scan photographs. It has high resolution and color depth,

which are required for scanning photographs. Some photo scanners come
with in-built software for cleaning and restoring old photographs.

4) Joystick

A joystick is also a pointing input device like a mouse. It is made up of a stick

with a spherical base. The base is fitted in a socket that allows free
movement of the stick. The movement of stick controls the cursor or pointer
on the screen.
The frist joystick was invented by C. B. Mirick at the U.S. Naval Research
Laboratory. A joystick can be of different types such as displacement
joysticks, finger-operated joysticks, hand operated, isometric joystick, and
more. In joystick, the cursor keeps moving in the direction of the joystick
unless it is upright, whereas, in mouse, the cursor moves only when the
mouse moves.

5) Light Pen

A light pen is a computer input device that looks like a pen. The tip of the
light pen contains a light-sensitive detector that enables the user to point to
or select objects on the display screen. Its light sensitive tip detects the
object location and sends the corresponding signals to the CPU. It is not
compatible with LCD screens, so it is not in use today. It also helps you draw
on the screen if needed. The first light pen was invented around 1955 as a
part of the Whirlwind project at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
(MIT).

6) Digitizer
Digitizer is a computer input device that has a flat surface and usually comes
with a stylus. It enables the user to draw images and graphics using the
stylus as we draw on paper with a pencil. The images or graphics drawn on
the digitizer appear on the computer monitor or display screen. The software
converts the touch inputs into lines and can also convert handwritten text to
typewritten words.

It can be used to capture handwritten signatures and data or images from

taped papers. Furthermore, it is also used to receive information in the form
of drawings and send output to a CAD (Computer-aided design) application
and software like AutoCAD. Thus, it allows you to convert hand-drawn
images into a format suitable for computer processing.

7) Microphone
The microphone is a computer input device that is used to input the sound. It
receives the sound vibrations and converts them into audio signals or sends
to a recording medium. The audio signals are converted into digital data and
stored in the computer. The microphone also enables the user to
telecommunicate with others. It is also used to add sound to presentations
and with webcams for video conferencing. A microphone can capture audio
waves in different ways; accordingly the three most common types are
described below:

i) Dynamic:

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It is the most commonly used microphone with a simple design. It has a

magnet which is wrapped by a metal coil and a thin sheet on the front end of
the magnet. The sheet transfers vibrations from sound waves to the coil and
from coil to electric wires which transmit the sound like an electrical signal.

ii) Condenser:
It is designed for audio recording and has a very sensitive and flat frequency
response. It has a front plate called diaphragm and a back plate parallel to
the front plate. When sound hits the diaphragm, it vibrates the diaphragm
and alters the distance between the two plates. The changes in distance are
transmitted as electric signals.

iii) Ribbon:

It is known for its reliability. It has a thin ribbon made of aluminum,

duraluminum, or nanofilm suspended in a magnetic field. The sound waves
cause vibrations in the ribbon, which generate a voltage proportional to the
velocity of the vibration. The voltage is transmitted as an electrical signal.
Early ribbon microphones had a transformer to increase the output voltage,
but modern ribbon microphones come with advanced magnets to produce a
strong signal.
8) Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR)

MICR computer input device is designed to read the text printed with
magnetic ink. MICR is a character recognition technology that makes use of
special magnetized ink which is sensitive to magnetic fields. It is widely used
in banks to process the cheques and other organizations where security is a
major concern. It can process three hundred cheques in a minute with
hundred-percent accuracy. The details on the bottom of the cheque (MICR
No.) are written with magnetic ink. A laser printer with MICR toner can be
used to print the magnetic ink.

The device reads the details and sends to a computer for processing. A
document printed in magnetic ink is required to pass through a machine
which magnetizes the ink, and the magnetic information is then translated
into characters.

9) Optical Character Reader (OCR)

OCR computer input device is designed to convert the scanned images of
handwritten, typed or printed text into digital text. It is widely used in offices
and libraries to convert documents and books into electronic files.

It processes and copies the physical form of a document using a scanner.

After copying the documents, the OCR software converts the documents into
a two-color (black and white), version called bitmap. Then it is analyzed for
light and dark areas, where the dark areas are selected as characters, and
the light area is identified as background. It is widely used to convert hard
copy legal or historic documents into PDFs. The converted documents can be
edited if required like we edit documents created in ms word.

10) Digital camera:

It is a digital device as it captures images and records videos digitally and
then stores them on a memory card. It is provided with an image sensor chip
to capture images, as opposed to film used by traditional cameras. Besides
this, a camera that is connected to your computer can also be called a digital
camera.

It has photosensors to record light that enters the camera through the lens.
When the light strikes the photosensors, each of the sensors returns the
electrical current, which is used to create the images.

11) Paddle:

It is a simple input device that is widely used in games. It is a wheel that is

held by hand and looks like a volume knob on a stereo that is used to
increase or decrease the volume. Paddle moves or controls cursor or any
other objects in the game in a back-and-forth motion. It is widely used as an
alternative to the joystick. Besides this, the term paddle also refers to many
handheld devices designed to control a function in an electronic device,
computer, etc.

12) Steering wheel:

It is used as an input device in racing video games such as car racing games
or in driving programs as virtual simulators to steer a vehicle. It works like
the real steering wheel by allowing you to take a right or left turn. A steering
wheel may be provided with acceleration and brake pedal devices and a
mechanism for shifting gears. Thus, it makes racing games more
adventurous and entertaining.

13) Gesture recognition devices:

These devices take human gestures as input. There are many such devices
that respond to gestures. For example, Kinect is one such device that
observes the movement of a player's body and interprets these movements
as inputs to video games. This feature is also available in certain tablets and
smartphones where you can perform certain tasks such as taking pictures
using finger gestures such as swiping, pinching, etc.

14) Light Gun:

As the name suggests, it is a pointing input device that is designed to point
at and shoot the targets on the screen in a video game, or arcade, etc. The
light gun was used for the first time on the MIT Whirwind computer. When
the gun is pointed at the target on the screen and the trigger is pulled, the
screen goes blank for a fraction of a second. During this moment, the
photodiode, which is present in the barrel, determines where the gun is
pointed. For example, shooting ducks in a duck hunt game.

15) Touchpad:

It is usually found in laptops as a substitute for the mouse. It allows you to

move or control the cursor on the screen using your finger. Just like a mouse,
it also has two buttons for right and left click. Using the touchpad, you can
perform all the tasks that you do with a mouse, such as selecting an object
on the screen, copy, paste, delete, open a file or folder, and more.

16) Remote:
It is a hardware device designed to control the functioning of a device, e.g., a
TV remote that can be used to change channels, increase or decrease the
volume, from a distance without leaving the seat. The first cordless TV
remote was invented by Dr. Robert Adler of Zenith in 1956. The remote
sends the electromagnetic waves to communicate with the device. These
waves can be infrared rays, radio waves, etc.

17) Touch screen:

It is the display screen of a device such as a smartphone, tablet, etc., that

allows users to interact or provide inputs to the device by using their finger.
Today, most of the electronic devices come with touchscreen as an
alternative to a mouse for navigating a graphical user interface. For
example, by touching, you can unlock your phone, open emails, open files,
play videos, etc. Besides this, it is used in lots of devices such as Camera,
Car GPS, Fitness machine, etc.

The concept of the touch screen was first introduced and published by E.A.
Johnson in 1965. The first touch screen was developed at the beginning of
the 1970s by CERN engineers Frank Beck and Bent Stumpe.
18) VR:

VR stands for virtual reality. It is an artificial or virtual environment which is

generated by computers. A person can interact with virtual objects of this
artificial environment using some input devices such as headsets, gloves,
headphones, etc. For example, he or she can find himself or herself walking
on a beach, watching a football match, walking in the sky, etc., without
actually doing all this.

19) Webcam:

Any camera which is connected to a computer is called a webcam. The in-

built camera provided on a computer can also be considered a webcam. It is
an input device as it can take pictures, and can be used to record videos if
required. The pictures and videos are stored in the computer memory and
can be displayed on the screen if required. Although it works almost the
same as the digital camera, it is different from a digital camera, as it is
designed to take compact digital photos that can be uploaded easily on the
webpages and shared with others through the internet.
20) Biometric Devices:
Biometrics refers to a process in which a person is identified through his or
her biological features such as fingerprints, eye cornea, face structure, etc. It
is done by using biometric devices, which can be of different types based on
their scanning features and abilities, such as:

i) Face Scanner:

It is designed to identify a person by scanning his or her face. It takes the

face measurements of a person. For example, the distance between eyes,
nose, and mouth, etc., accordingly, it confirms the identity of a person.
Besides this, it is smart enough to differentiate between a person's picture
and the real person.

ii) Hand Scanner:

The hand of a person can also be used to verify his or her identity as every
person has a unique pattern of veins in the palm, just like fingerprints. This
device takes advantage of this feature; it identifies a person by scanning the
palm of his hand. It uses infrared light to scan veins' patterns and blood
flowing in them. Palm is even more unique than fingerprints.

iii) Fingerprint Scanner:

It scans the fingerprints to identify people or for biometric authentication.

This device is developed, keeping in mind the fact that no two persons in the
world can have the same fingerprints. It is widely used in companies as a
fingerprint attendance system to mark the attendance of employees. This
type of scanners captures the pattern of valleys and ridges found on a finger
and store it in the memory or database. When you press your finger on the
given space, it verifies the identity by using its pattern-matching software.
iv) Retina or Iris Scanner:

It scans the retina or iris of a person's eye to confirm the identity. This device
is more secure than others as it is next to impossible to copy the retina or
iris. It works by mapping the retina's blood vessel patterns of the eye. The
blood vessels of retina absorb light more easily as well as can be identified
with appropriate lighting.

In this scan, a beam of low-energy infrared light falls on the retina through
the scanner's eyepiece. Then, the software captures the network of blood
vessels in the retina and uses it to verify a person's identity.

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v) Voice Scanner:

It records the voice of a person and digitizes it to create a distinctive voice

print or template. The voiceprints are stored in the database, and are used to
verify the voice of a person to confirm his or her identity. The person is
required to speak in the normal or same voice that was used to create a
voice template. It is not much reliable as it can be misused using a tape
recording.
Output Devices
The output device displays the result of the processing of raw data that is
entered in the computer through an input device. There are a number of
output devices that display output in different ways such as text, images,
hard copies, and audio or video. They bridge the gap between digital data
and human perception, letting users engage with computer-generated
information. Understanding the many forms of output devices and their
importance in computing is essential for making informed decisions while
selecting the right devices for certain applications.

Categories of Output Devices

Output devices can be categorized into four main types based on the nature
of their output.

o Visual Output Devices: These devices display processed data as

text, images, or video. Examples include monitors and projectors,
which allow users to view information on screens or project it onto
larger surfaces.
o Data Output Devices: These devices provide machine-readable
output for further processing or storage. Plotters and 3D printers fall
into this category, allowing users to create physical representations of
data or objects.
o Print Output Devices: Printers produce hard copies of processed
data, such as documents, images, or graphics. They allow for physical
documentation and distribution of information.
o Sound Output Devices: These devices deliver audio output for
listening or communication purposes. Speakers and
headphones/earphones enable users to hear the sound, whether Music,
speech, or other audio content.

Visual Output Devices

Visual output devices are components of computing systems that enable the
visual presentation of processed data. Monitors and projectors, for example,
play an important role in displaying information to users through text,
pictures, or video.

Users can view and analyze information more effectively with visual output
devices. They allow for the intelligible display of text, making reading papers,
emails, and online sites simpler. These devices also excel in picture
presentation, allowing users to see photographs, graphics, and illustrations
with accuracy and detail. Video material is additionally improved by visual
output devices, resulting in a fascinating viewing experience.

Some of the popular visual output devices are:

1. Monitor
o CRT Monitor
o LCD Monitor
o LED Monitor
o Plasma Monitor
2. Printer
o Impact Printers
A. Character Printers
i. Dot Matrix printers
ii. Daisy Wheel printers
B. Line printers
i. Drum printers
ii. Chain printers
o Non-impact printers
A. Laser printers
B. Inkjet printers
3. Projector

1) Monitor
The monitor is the display unit or screen of the computer. It is the main
output device that displays the processed data or information as text,
images, audio or video.

The types of monitors are given below.

i) CRT Monitor

CRT monitors are based on the cathode ray tubes. They are like vacuum
tubes which produce images in the form of video signals. Cathode rays tube
produces a beam of electrons through electron guns that strike on the inner
phosphorescent surface of the screen to produce images on the screen. The
monitor contains millions of phosphorus dots of red, green and blue color.
These dots start to glow when struck by electron beams and this
phenomenon is called cathodoluminescence.

The main components of a CRT monitor include the electron gun assembly,
deflection plate assembly, fluorescent screen, glass envelope, and base.The
front (outer surface) of the screen onto which images are produced is called
the face plate. It is made up of fiber optics.

There are three electron beams that strike the screen: red, green, and blue.
So, the colors which you see on the screen are the blends of red, blue and
green lights.The magnetic field guides the beams of electrons. Although
LCDs have replaced the CRT monitors, the CRT monitors are still used by
graphics professionals because of their color quality.

ii) LCD Monitor

The LCD monitor is a flat panel screen that is compact and light-weight as
compared to CRT monitors. It is based on liquid crystal display technology
which is used in the screens of laptops, tablets, smart phones, etc. An LCD
screen comprises two layers of polarized glass with a liquid crystal solution
between them. When the light passes through the first layer, an electric
current aligns the liquids crystals. The aligned liquid crystals allow a varying
level of light to pass through the second layer to create images on the
screen.

The LCD screen has a matrix of pixels that display the image on the
screen.Old LCDs had passive-matrix screens in which individual pixels are
controlled by sending a charge. A few electrical charges could be sent each
second that made screens appear blurry when the images moved quickly on
the screen.

Modern LCDs use active-matrix technology and contain thin film transistors
(TFTs) with capacitors. This technology allows pixels to retain their charge.
So, they don?t make screen blurry when images move fast on the screen as
well as are more efficient than passive-matrix displays.

iii) LED monitor

The LED monitor is an improved version of an LCD monitor. It also has a flat
panel display and uses liquid crystal display technology like the LCD
monitors. The difference between them lies in the source of light to backlight
the display. The LED monitor has many LED panels, and each panel has
several LEDsto backlight the display, whereas the LCD monitors use cold
cathode fluorescent light to backlight the display.Modern electronic devices
such as mobile phones, LED TVs, laptop and computer screens, etc., use a
LED display as it not only produces more brilliance and greater light intensity
but also consumes less power.

iv) Plasma Monitor

The plasma monitor is also a flat panel display that is based on plasma
display technology. It has small tiny cells between two glass panels. These
cells contain mixtures of noble gases and a small amount of mercury. When
voltage is applied, the gas in the cells turns into a plasma and emits
ultraviolet light that creates images on the screen, i.e., the screen is
illuminated by a tiny bit of plasma, a charged gas. Plasma displays are
brighter than liquid crystal displays (LCD) and also offer a wide viewing angle
than an LCD.

Plasma monitors provide high resolutions of up to 1920 X 1080, excellent

contrast ratios, wide viewing angle, a high refresh rate and more. Thus, they
offer a unique viewing experience while watching action movies, sports
games, and more.

Applications of Monitor

o Personal Computing: Monitors are commonly used in personal

computers for everyday operations such as online surfing, document
editing, video viewing, and gameplay.
o Workstations: Monitors are necessary in professional settings such as
workplaces since they serve as the primary display for employees'
workstations. Users may view and edit documents, spreadsheets,
presentations, and other work-related apps with them.
o Design and Multimedia: Graphic designers, video editors, and other
multimedia workers rely on monitors. High-resolution monitors with
precise color reproduction are utilized to develop and edit visual
material.
o Gaming: Gaming monitors give immersive experiences with high
refresh rates and short reaction times. Gamers use monitors to display
fast-paced action, colorful images, and fluid gameplay.
o Education: Monitors are used in educational institutions, such as
schools and universities, to facilitate learning. They display educational
content, multimedia presentations, interactive learning materials, etc.

3) Projector
A projector is an output device that enables the user to project the output
onto a large surface such as a big screen or wall. It can be connected to a
computer and similar devices to project their output onto a screen. It uses
light and lenses to produce magnified texts, images, and videos. So, it is an
ideal output device to give presentations or to teach a large number of
people.

Modern projects (digital projectors) come with multiple input sources such as
HDMI ports for newer equipment and VGA ports that support older devices.
Some projectors are designed to support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth as well. They
can be fixed onto the ceiling, placed on a stand, and more and are frequently
used for classroom teaching, giving presentations, home cinemas, etc.

A digital projector can be of two types:

1. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) digital projector: This type of digital

projectors are very popular as they are lightweight and provide crisp
output. An LCD projector uses transmissive technology to produce
output. It allows the light source, which is a standard lamp, to pass
through the three colored liquid crystal light panels. Some colors pass
through the panels and some are blocked by the panels and thus
images are on the screen.
2. Digital Light Processing (DLP) digital projector: It has a set of
tiny mirrors, a separate mirror for each pixel of the image and thus
provide high-quality images. These projectors are mostly used in
theatres as they fulfill the requirement of high-quality video output.

Applications of projectors
 o Education: Classrooms and educational institutions make heavy use
of projectors. Teachers may use projectors to show large groups of
pupils instructional materials, presentations, movies, and interactive
items.
o business Presentations: In corporate settings, projectors are vital
for giving presentations and sharing information with clients,
colleagues, or stakeholders. Presenters can use them to offer
slideshows, charts, graphs, and other visual aids.
o Home Theatre: Projectors are commonly used in in-home theatre
systems. They provide a cinematic experience for customers by
projecting movies, TV shows, or streaming material onto a huge
screen.
o Events and Conferences: Projectors are essential for events,
conferences, and seminars. They are used to show keynote speeches,
slideshows, movies, and live demonstrations to a big group.
o Digital Signage: Projectors are employed in digital signage
applications to display advertisements, information, or dynamic
content on large screens in public spaces, retail stores, or corporate
environments.
o Art Installations: Projectors are used by artists and designers to
create immersive art installations. They project images, videos, or
interactive visuals onto walls, buildings, or other unconventional
surfaces, transforming spaces and providing unique visual
experiences.

Print Output Devices

Print output devices are essential components of computing systems that
enable the generation of hard copies of processed data. These devices,
commonly known as printers, allow users to obtain physical copies of
documents, images, or other types of information.

Print output devices offer several advantages. Firstly, they provide a tangible
format for information, allowing for easy reading, sharing, and archiving of
documents. Hard copies are particularly useful for legal documents,
contracts, or important records that require physical signatures or official
documentation. Print output devices find applications in various settings,
including homes, offices, schools, and businesses. They are used for printing
documents, reports, presentations, photographs, labels, and more. From
everyday printing needs to specialized requirements, printers provide a
reliable and efficient means of generating physical copies of digital content.

Some of the popular print output devices are:

3) Printer
o Impact Printers
o Character Printers
o Dot Matrix printers
o Daisy Wheel printers
o Line printers
o Drum printers
o Chain printers
o Non-impact printers
o Laser printers
o Inkjet printers

A printer produces hard copies of the processed data. It enables the user, to
print images, text or any other information onto the paper. Users can pick
from various printer types, such as inkjet, laser, or dot matrix, to meet their
printing demands. Printers enable the generation of tangible copies for
record-keeping, presentations, marketing materials, and other purposes,
from household to professional settings. Printers are essential for personal
and commercial use due to their simplicity and adaptability.

Based on the printing mechanism, the printers are of two types: Impact
Printers and Non-impact Printers.

o Impact Printers: They are of two types:

A. Character Printers
i. Dot Matrix printers
ii. Daisy Wheel printers
 B. Line printers
i. Drum printers
ii. Chain printers
o Non-impact printers: They are of two types:
A. Laser printers
B. Inkjet printers

Impact Printer
The impact printer uses a hammer or print head to print the character or
images onto the paper. The hammer or print head strikes or presses an ink
ribbon against the paper to print characters and images.

Impact printers are further divided into two types.

A. Character Printers
B. Line printers

A) Character Printers

Character printer prints a single character at a time or with a single stroke of

the print head or hammer. It does not print one line at a time. Dot Matrix
printer and Daisy Wheel printer are character printers. Today, these printers
are not in much use due to their low speed and because only the text can be
printed. The character printers are of two types, which are as follows:

i) Dot Matrix Printer

Dot Matrix Printer is an impact printer. The characters and images printed by
it are the patterns of dots. These patterns are produced by striking the ink
soaked ribbon against the paper with a print head. The print head contains
pins that produce a pattern of dots on the paper to form the individual
characters. The print head of a 24 pin dot matrix contains more pins than a 9
pin dot matrix printer, so it produces more dots which results in better
printing of characters. To produce color output, the black ribbon can be
changed with color stripes. The speed of Dot Matrix printers is around 200-
500 characters per second.

ii) Daisy Wheel Printer

ii) Daisy Wheel Printer

Daisy Wheel Printer was invented by David S. Lee at Diablo Data Systems.It
consists of a wheel or disk that has spokes or extensions and looks like a
daisy, so it is named Daisy Wheel printer. At the end of extensions, molded
metal characters are mounted. To print a character the printer rotates the
wheel, and when the desired character is on the print location the hammer
hits disk and the extension hits the ink ribbon against the paper to create the
impression. It cannot be used to print graphics and is often noisy and slow,
i.e., the speed is very low around 25-50 characters per second. Due to these
drawbacks,these printers have become obsolete.

B) Line Printers:

Line printer, which is also as a bar printer, prints one line at a time. It is a
high-speed impact printer as it can print 500 to 3000 lines per minute. Drum
printer and chain printer are examples of line printers.

i) Drum Printer:
Drum printer is a line printer that is made of a rotating drum to print
characters. The drum has circular bands of characters on its surface. It has a
separate hammer for each band of characters. When you print, the drum
rotates, and when the desired character comes under the hammer, the
hammer strikes the ink ribbon against the paper to print characters. The
drum rotates at a very high speed and characters are printed by activating
the appropriate hammers. Although all the characters are not printed at a
time, they are printed at a very high speed. Furthermore, it can print only a
predefined style as it has a specific set of characters. These printers are
known to be very noisy due to the use of hammering techniques.

ii) Chain Printer:

Chain printer is a line printer that uses a rotating chain to print characters.
The characters are embossed on the surface of the chain. The chain rotates
horizontally around a set of hammers, for each print location one hammer is
provided, i.e., the total number of hammers is equal to the total number of
print positions.

The chain rotates at a very high speed and when the desired character
comes at the print location, the corresponding hammer strikes the page
against the ribbon and character on the chain.They can type 500 to 3000
lines per minute. They are also noisy due to the hammering action.

Non-Impact Printer:
Non-impact printers don't print characters or images by striking a print head
or hammer on the ink ribbon placed against the paper. They print characters
and images without direct physical contact between the paper and the
printing machinery. These printers can print a complete page at a time, so
they are also known as page printers. The common types of non-impact
printers are Laser printer and Inkjet printer:

i) Laser Printer:
A laser printer is a non-impact printer that uses a laser beam to print the
characters. The laser beam hits the drum, which is a photoreceptor and
draws the image on the drum by altering electrical charges on the drum. The
drum then rolls in toner, and the charged image on the drum picks the toner.
The toner is then printed on the paper using heat and pressure. Once the
document is printed, the drum loses the electric charge,and the remaining
toner is collected. The laser printers use powdered toner for printing instead
of liquid ink and produce quality print objects with a resolution of 600 dots
per inch (dpi) or more.

ii) Inkjet Printer:

The inkjet printer is a non-impact printer that prints images and characters
by spraying fine,ionized drops of ink. The print head has tiny nozzles to spray
the ink. The printer head moves back and forth and sprays ionized drops of
ink on the paper, which is fed through the printer. These drops pass through
an electric field that guides the ink onto the paper to print correct images
and characters.
An inkjet printer has cartridges that contain ink. Modern inkjet printers are
color printers that have four cartridges containing different colors: Cyan,
Magenta, Yellow, and Black. It is capable of printing high-quality images with
different colors. It can produce print objects with a resolution of at least 300
dots per inch (dpi).

Applications of Printer

o Personal and Home Use: Printers are frequently used in homes to

print papers, pictures, and other personal stuff. Individuals can use
them to make tangible copies of vital information or photographs for
personal use.
o Offices and enterprises: Printers are required in offices and
enterprises. They print commercial enterprise papers, reports,
contracts, invoices, and documents. Employees can utilize printers to
create physical copies of crucial information, which aids in
communication and record-keeping.
o Education: Students and teachers utilize printers at educational
institutions such as schools and universities. They are used to print
assignments, worksheets, study materials, project reports, and
educational tools.
o Printing and Publishing: Printers are critical in the publishing and
printing industries. They're used on a massive scale to print
publications, including newspapers, brochures, flyers, and other
published goods.
o Advertising and Marketing: Printers are employed in the advertising
and marketing industry to create promotional materials such as
posters, banners, flyers, business cards, and product labels.

Sound Output Devices

Sound output devices, which allow users to listen to audio material, are a
significant component of computing systems. Speakers and headphones, for
example, facilitate sound reproduction and improve the whole multimedia
experience. There are various advantages to using sound output equipment.
They let consumers experience high-quality audio with increased clarity,
depth, and richness. Sound output devices improve the entire audio
experience by bringing information to the existence, whether or not it is the
minute specifics in Music, the immersive sound effects in movies, or the clear
voice during a conference call.

These devices have several applications, which include use in homes,

groups, amusement venues, and academic institutions. They are used for
personal enjoyment, communication, professional audio work, and
multimedia jobs. Sound output devices link to other devices, such as
smartphones, tablets, and televisions, increasing their versatility and utility.

Some of the popular sound output devices are:

4) Speakers
Speakers are important output devices that transform electrical impulses
into audible sounds. They're essential to many modern devices, including
computers, televisions, music players, and mobile phones. The audio system
improves the multimedia experience by providing high-quality audio output,
whether listening to the song, viewing films, playing video games, or
participating in virtual meetings. They help ensure that consumers enjoy
audio material with clarity and depth by contributing to clean and clear
sound reproduction.

Types of speakers

o Stereo Speakers: Also known as 2.0 speakers, stereo speakers

comprise left and right speakers. They are the most fundamental
speaker, typically found in desktop computers, laptop computers, and
tiny audio installations. Stereo speakers offer a simple yet efficient
 method of reproducing sounds and creating a spatial audio experience.

o Surround Sound Speakers: Surround sound speakers provide

immersive audio commonly used in home theatre systems. For a
surround sound experience, many speakers are carefully positioned
around the room. Multiple speakers plus a subwoofer are used in
common arrangements like 5.1, 7.1, and 9.1 systems. The number
denotes the number of speakers, while ".1" denotes a specialized
subwoofer for low-frequency effects. These configurations provide
realistic soundscapes, immersing viewers in a more engaging home
theatre experience.

o Subwoofers: Subwoofers are specialized speakers designed to

reproduce low-frequency sounds, also known as bass. They add depth
and impact to audio by delivering powerful and deep bass tones.
Subwoofers are often used alongside stereo or surround sound
 systems to enhance the audio experience, specifically in movies,
Music, and gaming.

o Soundbars: Soundbars are slim and elongated speakers that provide

an all-in-one audio solution for TVs and home entertainment systems.
They consist of multiple built-in speakers housed in a single enclosure.
Soundbars offer improved audio quality compared to built-in TV
speakers and can create a simulated surround sound effect. They are
popular for those seeking a compact and convenient audio setup.

o Portable Speakers: portable speakers are small, lightweight, wireless

devices designed for audio enjoyment on the go. Customers may
additionally listen to songs and other audio files from anywhere.
Bluetooth audio systems are available in various styles and sizes, as
well as outdoor audio systems with long battery life and waterproof
 audio systems for use by the pool.

o Bookshelf speakers: Bookshelf speakers are placed on a shelf, table,

or stand. They provide a good combination of size and sound
insulation, making them excellent for small to medium-sized rooms. In
surround sound or stereo systems, they are commonly utilized as back
speakers.

o Soundbar subwoofer: Some soundbars have a separate subwoofer

for higher bass response. These subwoofers are designed to maximize
sound output and offer lower-strength enjoyment.
o Outdoor speaker: The outdoor speaker is designed to withstand
outdoor situations such as humidity, UV exposure, and temperature
changes. They are ideal for outdoor gatherings, parties, or enjoying
Music in outdoor spaces like gardens or patios. Outdoor speakers can
 be mounted on walls, installed on poles, or designed to blend into the
landscape.

Applications of Speakers

o Entertainment: Speakers are used in entertainment systems such as

home theatres, game consoles, and music players to playback audio.
They provide immersive sound experiences, letting users enjoy high-
quality audio in movies, Music, and gaming.
o Public Address Systems: Speakers are used in public places such as
schools, stadiums, conference centers, and airports to make
announcements, deliver public speeches, and address big audiences.
They provide clear and audible communication in various public
meetings and activities.
o Multimedia Presentations: In multimedia presentations and
conferences, speakers are vital. They magnify the audio of
presentations, movies, and speeches, allowing the audience to better
hear and participate in the information.
o Music Production: Speakers are crucial in music production studios
and recording environments. They are used for tracking and playback
of recorded audio, ensuring correct sound duplication and quality
manipulation during the production technique.
o Communication Devices: Speakers are integrated into conversation
devices like smartphones, pills, and laptops. They permit customers to
make telephone calls, participate in video conferences, and listen to
audio content.

5) Headphones/Earphones
Headphones and earphones are personal audio devices worn over the ears or
inserted into the ear canal, respectively. They deliver Music to the user
directly, giving a private and immersive listening experience. Earphones are
tiny and fit within the ear, whereas headphones have two speakers that
cover both ears. They are regularly used with portable music players,
phones, laptop computers, and different gadgets. Users of headphones and
earbuds may listen to Music and podcasts and view films and other media
without bothering others. They offer ease, mobility, and the ability to
concentrate on audio information while maintaining privacy and clarity.

Types of Headphones/Earphones
Headphones and earphones come in various types and designs, catering to
different preferences and audio needs. Here are some common types:

o Over-Ear Headphones: Over-ear headphones feature large ear cups

that fully envelop the ears. They deliver exceptional sound quality and
isolate noise, making them ideal for immersive music listening and
studio monitoring. One of their notable advantages is their comfort, as
the ear cups completely cover the ears, evenly distributing the weight
for a pleasant experience.

o On-Ear Headphones: On-ear headphones rest on the outer ear

without fully enclosing it. In comparison to over-ear headphones,
they're smaller and additional compact. On-ear headphones offer a
first-rate aggregate of mobility and sound first-rate. Even as they do
not supply the same quantity of noise isolation as over-ear
headphones, they will often be extra lightweight and less hard to use
for prolonged intervals.
o In-Ear Earphones: In-ear earphones, additionally known as earbuds
or earphones, are inserted right away into the ear canal. They are
compact, light, and quite transportable. In order to ensure a secure
and comfortable fit, in-ear earbuds are equipped with silicone or foam
tips in different sizes. They provide good noise isolation and are
 appropriate for use during difficult tasks or while traveling. In-ear
earphones are commonly bundled with smartphones and portable
music players.

o Wireless Headphones/Earphones: Wireless

Headphones/Earphones: Wireless headphones and earphones have
acquired recognition because of their comfort and freedom from
tangled wires. They communicate with different gadgets thru Bluetooth
or different wireless generations. Wi-Fi headphones let you circulate
spherical freely without being confined via the use of cables. They
come in loads of fashions, together with over-ear, on-ear, and in-ear
designs.
o Noise-Canceling Headphones/Earphones: Noise-canceling
headphones and earphones use advanced technology to reduce
external ambient noise. They employ microphones to capture external
sounds and generate opposite sound waves to cancel them out. Noise-
canceling headphones are mainly effective in busy locations, which
include airplanes or crowded areas, since they offer extra immersive
listening enjoyment with less background noise.
o Sports/Exercise Headphones/Earphones: Designed for active
individuals, sports or exercise headphones and earphones are
designed to withstand sweat, moisture, and vigorous movement. They
often feature a secure fit and may have additional features like water
 resistance or ear hooks to stay in place during physical activities.

o Gaming Headsets: Gaming headsets are tailored for gamers,

providing enhanced audio quality and clear communication. They
typically come with built-in microphones for in-game chat and voice
communication. Gaming headsets offer immersive soundscapes,
allowing gamers to pinpoint audio cues accurately.
o True Wireless Earbuds: True wireless earbuds are in-ear
headphones with no wires connecting them. Each earbud is self-
contained and connects to the smartphone through Bluetooth. True
wireless earbuds provide a cable-free listening experience, with some
versions including sophisticated capabilities such as touch controls and
smart assistants.

Applications of Headphones/Earphones
o Personal Music Listening: Headphones/earphones are frequently
utilized for personal music enjoyment. Headphones/earphones allow
 you to listen to your favorite Music privately and clearly, whether
you're on the road or resting at home.
o Communication: Headphones/Earphones with built-in microphones
are used for voice calls, video conferencing, and online gaming. They
provide clear audio input and output, enabling effective
communication over voice and video platforms.
o Fitness and Sports: Headphones/Earphones are popular among
fitness enthusiasts and athletes. They offer the convenience of wire-
free listening during workouts, running, or other physical activities,
keeping users motivated and entertained.
o Education and Language Learning: Headphones/Earphones are
used in educational settings for language learning programs, online
courses, and audio-based learning materials. They provide a focused
listening experience, helping learners improve comprehension and
pronunciation.
o Entertainment: Headphones/earphones are required to watch movies
and TV shows and play video games. They offer immersive audio
experiences that allow users to completely immerse themselves in the
entertainment material without bothering others.

Data Output Devices

Data output devices are essential components of computer systems that
allow users to receive and analyze processed data intelligibly. These gadgets
are critical in displaying data meaningfully, making it accessible and valuable
for further analysis or decision-making.

Data output devices are required for data processing, visualization, and
transmission. They facilitate understanding complex information by
presenting it in a visually accessible format. Using data output devices, users
can interpret and make sense of data more effectively, leading to informed
decision-making, improved communication, and enhanced productivity in
various fields and industries.

Some of the popular Data output devices are:

6) Plotter
A plotter is a specialized output device used to generate high-quality,
accurate, and detailed graphics. It's popular in fields like engineering,
architecture, and graphic design. Unlike printers, which use ink or toner to
create pictures or text on paper, plotters utilize a pen or marker to draw
continuous lines on diverse media such as paper, vinyl, or film. Plotters are
capable of creating intricate and accurate drawings, maps, blueprints, and
technical diagrams. They are valued for their ability to handle large-format
prints and deliver precise output, making them essential tools in industries
that require precise graphical representation.

Types of Plotters
Plotters come in different types, each with its own unique features and
applications. Here are some common types of plotters:

o Pen Plotters: Pen plotters are the most classic sort of plotter, drawing
continuous lines on paper or other media using a pen or marker. They
create precise and elaborate designs by sliding the pen horizontally
and vertically over the page. Pen plotters are known for their high
accuracy and can produce detailed line art, technical diagrams,
architectural blueprints, and engineering designs. They are commonly
used in industries that require precise and professional-looking
graphical outputs.

o Electrostatic Plotters: Electrostatic plotters use an electrostatic

charge to attract toner or ink onto paper. They operate by selectively
charging areas of the paper and then applying toner or ink to those
charged areas, resulting in the formation of graphical output.
Electrostatic plotters can print high-resolution images with smooth
 gradients and solid fills. They are frequently used in industries
requiring accurate color reproduction, including graphic design,
advertising, and photography.
o Inkjet Plotters: Inkjet plotters work similarly to inkjet printers but are
designed for large-format printing. They generate the desired picture
or pattern by spraying small droplets of ink onto the paper. High-
quality printouts with brilliant colors and precise details may be
produced using inkjet plotters. They are frequently used in industries
that need large-scale printing, such as architecture, engineering, and
signage.

o Cutting Plotters: Cutting plotters, also known as vinyl cutters, are

specialized plotters used to cut out shapes and designs on various
materials such as vinyl, paper, or fabric. They operate by cutting along
the outlines of the desired pattern using a sharp blade. Cutting plotters
are commonly used in sign making, vehicle graphics, apparel design,
and other industries that require precise cutting of materials for
signage, decals, or stencils.
o Laser Plotters: Laser plotters use a laser beam to create high-
resolution prints on various media. They work by directing the laser
beam across the surface of the media, selectively exposing it to heat,
which creates the desired image or design. Laser plotters are known
for their high precision and can produce detailed and intricate
graphics. They are used in industries such as prototyping, architectural
modeling, and graphic arts, where precise and complex designs are
 required.

Applications of Plotter

o Engineering and Architecture: Plotters are extensively used in

engineering and architecture for creating detailed technical drawings,
blueprints, and floor plans. They can produce accurate and scaled
drawings on large sheets of paper or other materials.
o Fine Art & Graphic Design: Plotters are used by artists and graphic
designers to generate large-scale artwork, posters, and drawings. They
can reproduce fine details and beautiful colors, letting artists
communicate their ideas on a larger scale.
o Textile and Fashion Design: Plotters are used to create patterns,
templates, and stencils in the textile and fashion sectors. They can
produce intricate designs and precise measurements on fabrics,
enabling efficient production and customization.
o Signage and Advertising: Plotters are utilized in the production of
signs, banners, and promotional materials. They can cut vinyl or other
materials into desired shapes and sizes, allowing for the creation of
visually appealing signage and advertisements.

Wireless Output Devices

Wireless output devices have grown in popularity and have become essential
components of modern computing systems. These gadgets link and interact
with computers or other devices via wireless technology, eliminating the
need for physical wires or connections. They provide ease, flexibility, and
mobility by letting users engage with their devices from a distance while
removing the constraints imposed by wired connections. Here are a few
examples of wireless output devices and their applications:

o Wireless Monitors: Wireless monitors are display units that can

connect to a computer or other devices using wireless technology,
such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. They provide the ease of cable-free
communication, letting users position their displays wherever they are
within wireless range. Wireless monitors are especially beneficial when
wire management is difficult or when users need to move or adjust the
display often.

o Wireless Printers: Wireless printers have changed the way people

print by removing the requirement for direct physical connections.
These printers usWi-Fifi or Bluetooth to connect to devices such as PCs,
laptops, or smartphones, allowing wireless printing from anywhere
within the network range. Wireless printers provide increased
flexibility, convenience, and decreased cable clutter. Users may print
papers, images, and other items without having to deal with wires and
cords. Wireless printers are very handy in shared office environments
or households with many devices since they may be accessed by
 several people at the same time.

o Wireless Projectors: They can wirelessly receive video and audio

signals, letting users project material from a distance onto a screen or
wall. They can wirelessly receive video and audio signals, letting users
project material from a distance onto a screen or wall. Wireless
projectors are often utilized in classrooms, boardrooms, and home
theatre setups because they provide flexibility and convenience of
usage during presentations, movie evenings, and gaming sessions.

o Wireless Speakers: wireless speakers make use of wireless

technologies like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to connect and flow audio from
devices which include smartphones, tablets, or computer systems.
They provide a clean method to listen to Music, podcasts, or other
audio records without having to deal with cords. Wi-Fi audio systems
are available in an expansion of sizes and styles, ranging from small
portable devices for on-the-go use to larger devices for home
 enjoyment systems.

o Wireless Headphones/Earphones: wireless headphones and

earbuds have grown in recognition because of their portability and lack
of cables. Wireless headphones and earbuds connect to gadgets via
Bluetooth, giving a hassle-free music experience without tangled
cords. They're available in an expansion of designs to accommodate an
extensive variety of tastes and usage conditions. These gadgets'
wireless connection allows users to roam around freely while listening
to audio material. Wireless headphones and earbuds have become
popular alternatives for their seamless and portable audio experiences,
whether for workouts, commuting, or simply untethered listening.

o Wireless Presenters: Wireless presenters are handheld devices that

enable users to control presentations remotely. They connect to
computers or other devices using wireless technology, allowing
presenters to navigate slides, highlight points, or control multimedia
elements from a distance. Wireless presenters provide flexibility and
 enhance the presenter's mobility and engagement during meetings,
conferences, or lectures.

Applications of Wireless Output Devices

o Home and Office Environments: Wireless output devices find
widespread use in both home and office settings. Wireless printers
allow multiple users to print documents or photos from their devices,
eliminating the need for everyone to be physically connected to the
printer. Wireless speakers provide flexible audio solutions for
entertainment or productivity purposes.
o Education: Wireless output devices are particularly valuable in
educational environments. Wireless projectors enable teachers to
display content from their devices onto a larger screen, facilitating
effective visual learning for students. Wireless headphones can be
used by students to listen to educational audio materials without
disrupting others.
o Presentations and Conferences: Wireless output devices are
commonly used in business presentations, conferences, and meetings.
Wireless projectors and presenters allow for seamless presentations
without the need for cable connections. Wireless speakers provide
clear audio for conference calls or multimedia presentations.
 o Entertainment: Wireless output devices, such as
headphones/earphones and speakers, improve entertainment
experiences by allowing for more mobility and high-quality audio for
Music, movies, and other media.
o Mobile Devices: Wireless output devices are compatible with mobile
devices such as smartphones and tablets. Users can wirelessly connect
to wireless speakers, projectors, or headphones/earphones to enhance
their mobile entertainment or productivity experiences.

Advantages of Wireless Output Devices

o Convenience and Flexibility: Wireless output devices offer the
convenience of cable-free connectivity. Users can connect and interact
with their devices from a distance, eliminating the limitations imposed
by physical cables. This flexibility allows for easier device setup,
repositioning, and mobility.
o Reduced Clutter: Without the need for physical cables, wireless
output devices contribute to a cleaner and more organized workspace.
Users can avoid the tangle of cables and the hassle of managing and
untangling wires, leading to a more aesthetically pleasing and efficient
working environment.
o Enhanced Mobility: Wireless output devices provide greater freedom
of movement. Users can freely move around within the wireless range
without being tethered to a specific location. This is particularly
advantageous in scenarios such as presentations, where the presenter
can move around the room while maintaining control over the output
device.
o Ease of Sharing: Wireless output devices make it easier to share
resources among multiple users. For example, wireless printers can be
accessed by multiple devices within a wireless network, allowing users
to conveniently print from different locations without the need for
physical connections or transferring files.
o Increased Accessibility: Wireless output devices improve
accessibility for users with mobility challenges or disabilities. They
 enable users to interact with devices from a comfortable position or
distance, providing a more inclusive computing experience.

Conclusion
Output devices are essential components of computing systems, offering a
range of functions and applications. From visual devices like monitors and
projectors to printers and sound devices like speakers, each category serves
a specific purpose in presenting, printing, and reproducing processed data.
By understanding the types and applications of these devices, users can
choose the most suitable output device to meet their needs. As technology
evolves, output devices continue to advance, providing improved visual and
auditory experiences and opening new possibilities for multimedia
interactions. With the right output device, users can enhance their
computing experience, effectively share information, and communicate
seamlessly.