Computer Hardware Basics

Keyboard

• Used to input text, characters, and commands.
• On-screen keyboards can be used as an alternative to a physical keyboard.

Mouse

• Used to interact with the computer’s graphical user interface (GUI).
• Uses optical or laser sensors to track movement across a surface.

Printer

• Creates a tangible representation of digital data onto a physical medium.
• Common uses include creating hard copies of documents, photographs, and artwork.
• Types include inkjet, laser, and dot matrix printers.

Monitor

• Visually displays digital information, graphics, and images.
• Softcopy refers to digital data displayed on a screen or monitor.

Projector

• Projects images onto a large surface, such as a wall or screen.
• Can be used as an alternative to a monitor for large groups.

Digital Camera

• Captures and stores photos and videos as digital files.
• Uses sensors to convert light into electronic signals.
• Allows viewing, editing, and sharing photos and videos on various devices.

Scanner

• Inputs physical content into a digital format.
• Some scanners can print and copy, acting as both input and output devices.

External Hard Disk

• Storage device located outside of the computer.
• Connected via USB cable or wireless connection.

Speaker

• Produces audio output/sound that can be heard.
• May be built into the motherboard or attached as external units.

Keyboard

• Used to input text, characters, and commands into a computer
• Can be physical or on-screen

Mouse

• A pointing device that interacts with graphical user interfaces
• Uses an optical or laser sensor to track movement on a flat surface

Printer

• Outputs digital content onto physical media
• Examples of physical media: documents, photographs, artwork
• Printer types: inkjet, laser, and dot matrix
• Each type uses a different technology to transfer ink or toner onto paper.

Monitor

• An output device that displays digital information visually
• Also called a "softcopy"

Projector

• Projects an image onto a large surface, like a wall or projection screen
• An alternative to a monitor or television for large groups

Digital Camera

• Captures and stores photos or videos as digital files
• Uses sensors to convert light into electronic signals

Scanner

• Inputs physical content into a digital format
• Some scanners also have printing and copying capabilities

External Hard Disk

• Storage device located outside a computer
• Connected through USB cable or wirelessly

Speaker

• Outputs audio
• Can be built into the motherboard or connected externally

Test your knowledge on various computer hardware components, including input devices like keyboards and mice, output devices like printers and monitors, and other essential tools like projectors and digital cameras. This quiz covers their functions and uses in computing.