CC100 M1L3-4.pdf

1 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Its Components 2 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Its Components Lesson 3: Input and Output SPECIFIC LEARNING OUTCOMES: In this lesson, you are expected to: classify input and output devi...

1 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Its Components 2 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Its Components Lesson 3: Input and Output SPECIFIC LEARNING OUTCOMES: In this lesson, you are expected to: classify input and output devices, identify keyboard entry including the different types of keyboards and keyboard features, identify pointing devices, scanning devices, image capturing devices, audio-output devices, discuss the monitor features, flat-panel, CRT, e-book readers, data projectors, and HDTV, differentiate printing features as well as ink-jet, laser, dot-matrix, thermal, plotter, photo, and portable printers. PRE-ASSESSMENT: Instruction: Read, analyze and answer each of the questions below by choosing the letter of the MOST APPROPRIATE answer. 1. Hardware used to translate words, sounds, images, and actions that people understand into a form that the system unit can process is known as a. device drivers c. device readers b. input devices d. output devices 2. This type of keyboard provides the greatest amount of flexibility and convenience by eliminating cables connected to the system unit. a. ergonomic c. network b. traditional d. wireless 3. The mouse usually appears in the shape of an arrow. a. indicator c. marker b. meter d. pointer 4. describes the relationship between the height and width of a monitor. a. Aspect ratio c. Dot pitch b. Dpi d. Resolution 5. This type of pointing device has crisscrossed invisible beams of infrared light that are protected with a clear plastic outer layer. a. joystick c. optical mouse b. pointing stick d. touch screen 6. A Universal Product Code is read by what type of scanner? a. bar code c. flatbed b. MICR d. OCR 7. input devices convert sounds into a form that can be processed by the system unit. a. Audio c. Electrolyzing b. Plotting d. WebCam 3 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Its Components 8. The most important characteristic of a monitor is its a. clarity c. dot pitch b. resolution d. viewable size 9. This type of printer uses technology similar to photocopying machines. a. ink-jet c. laser b. portable d. thermal 10. is a specialized input and output device for receiving and sending voice communication. a. Fax machine c. Internet telephone b. Laser d. MFD LESSON MAP: Monitor Mouse Speaker Keyboard Output Devices Printer Input Devices Webcam Touchscreen Computer Projector Joysticks Headset Microphone Plotter Optical pen This map shows the process of computer using input and output devices. The input devices will receive data from the users and it will be processed by the CPU. The output devices then produce results to the users. 4 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software CORE CONTENTS ENGAGE: UX Activity 9: INSTRUCTION: Before going over this learning module, identify the different parts of keyboard. 1. 2. 3. 4. 10. 8. 6. 5. 9. 7. EXPLORE: What Is Input? Input is any data or instructions that are used by a computer. They can come directly from you or from other sources. You provide input whenever you use system or application programs. For example, when using a word processing program, you enter data in the form of numbers and letters and issue commands such as to save and to print documents. You also can enter data and issue commands by pointing to items, or using your voice. Other sources of input include scanned or photographed images. Input devices are hardware used to translate words, sounds, images, and actions that people understand into a form that the system unit can process. For example, when using a word processor, you typically use a keyboard to enter text and a mouse to issue commands. In addition to keyboards and mice, there are a wide variety of other input devices. These include pointing, scanning, image capturing, and audio-input devices. Keyboard Entry One of the most common ways to input data is by keyboard. Keyboards convert numbers, letters, and special characters that people understand into electrical signals. These signals are sent to, and processed by, the system unit. Most keyboards use an arrangement of keys given the name QWERTY. This name reflects the keyboard layout by taking the letters of the first six alphabetic characters found on the top row of keys displaying letters. 5 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software Keyboards There are a wide variety of different keyboard designs. They range from the full-sized to miniature and from rigid to flexible. There are even virtual keyboards that project an interactive key layout onto a flat surface. The most common types are: Traditional keyboards —full-sized, rigid, rectangular keyboards that include function, navigational, and numeric keys. Ergonomic keyboards —similar to traditional keyboards. The keyboard arrangement, however, is not rectangular and a palm rest is provided. They are designed specifically to alleviate wrist strain associated with the repetitive movements of typing. (See Figure 7-1) Wireless keyboards —transmit input to the system unit through the air. By eliminating connecting wires to the system unit, these keyboards provide greater flexibility and convenience. PDA keyboards —miniature keyboards for PDAs and smart phones to send e-mail, create documents, and more. (See Figure 7-2) Virtual keyboards —display an image of a keyboard on a touch screen device. The screen functions as the actual input device, which is why the keyboard is considered virtual. Virtual keyboards are common on tablet computers and mobile devices. Features A computer keyboard combines a typewriter keyboard with a numeric keypad, used to enter numbers and arithmetic symbols. It also has many special-purpose keys. Some keys, such as the CAPS LOCK key, are toggle keys. These keys turn a feature on or off. Others, such as the CTRL key, are combination keys, which perform an action when held down in combination with another key. To learn more about keyboard features, see Figure 7-3. 6 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software Pointing Devices Pointing is one of the most natural of all human gestures. Pointing devices provide an intuitive interface with the system unit by accepting pointing gestures and converting them into machine-readable input. There are a wide variety of different pointing devices, including the mouse, joystick, touch screen, and stylus. Mice A mouse controls a pointer that is displayed on the monitor. The mouse pointer usually appears in the shape of an arrow. It frequently changes shape, however, depending on the application. A mouse can have one, two, or more buttons, which are used to select command options and to control the mouse pointer on the monitor. Some mice have a wheel button that can be rotated to scroll through information that is displayed on the monitor. Although there are several different mouse types, there are three basic designs: 1. Optical mouse has no moving parts and is currently the most widely used. It emits and senses light to detect mouse movement. An optical mouse can be used on almost any surface with high precision. (See Figure 7-4) 2. Mechanical mouse has a ball on the bottom and is attached with a cord to the system unit. As you move the mouse across a smooth surface, the roller rotates and controls the pointer on the screen. 3. Cordless or wireless mouse is a battery-powered device that typically uses radio waves or infrared light waves to communicate with the system unit. These devices eliminate the mouse cord and free up desk space. Three devices similar to a mouse are trackballs, touch pads, and pointing sticks. You can use the trackball, also known as the roller ball, to control the pointer by rotating a ball with your thumb. (See Figure 7-5) You can use touch pads to control the pointer by moving and tapping your finger on the surface of a pad. (See Figure 7-6) You can use a pointing stick, located in the middle of the keyboard, to control the pointer by directing the stick with one finger. (See Figure 7-7) Touch Screens A touch screen allows users to select actions or commands by touching the screen with a finger or penlike device. Touch screens are easy to use, especially when people need information quickly. They are widely used with tablet PCs, netbooks, and smartphones. Touch screens are also commonly used at restaurants, automated teller machines (ATMs), and information centers. (See Figure 7-8) 7 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software Multitouch screens can be touched with more than one finger, which allows for interactions such as rotating graphical objects on the screen with your hand or zooming in and out by pinching and stretching your fingers. Multitouch screens are commonly used on mobile devices such as the Apple iPhone, as well as some notebook computers and desktop monitors. (See Figure 7-9) Joysticks The joystick is a popular input device for computer games. You control game actions by varying the pressure, speed, and direction of the joystick. Additional controls, such as buttons and triggers, are used to specify commands or initiate specific actions. (See Figure 7-10) Stylus A stylus is a penlike device commonly used with tablet PCs and PDAs. (See Figure 7-11) A stylus uses pressure to draw images on a screen. Often, a stylus interacts with the computer through handwriting recognition software. Handwriting recognition software translates handwritten notes into a form that the system unit can process. Scanning Devices Scanners move across text and images. Scanning devices convert scanned text and images into a form that the system unit can process. There are four types of scanning devices: optical scanners, card readers, bar code readers, and character and mark recognition devices. Optical Scanners An optical scanner, also known simply as a scanner, accepts documents consisting of text and/or images and converts them to machine-readable form. These devices do not recognize individual letters or 8 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software images. Rather, they recognize light, dark, and colored areas that make up individual letters or images. Typically, scanned documents are saved in files that can be further processed, displayed, printed, or stored for later use. There are three basic types of optical scanners: flatbed, document, and portable. (See Figure 7-12) 1. Flatbed scanner is much like a copy machine. The image to be scanned is placed on a glass surface and the scanner records the image from below. 2. Document scanner is similar to a flatbed scanner except that it can quickly scan multipage documents. It automatically feeds one page of a document at a time through a scanning surface. 3. Portable scanner is typically a handheld device that slides across the image, making direct contact. Optical scanners are powerful tools for a wide variety of end users, including graphics and advertising professionals who scan images and combine them with text. Lawyers and students use portable scanners as a valuable research tool to record information. Card Readers Nearly everyone uses a credit card, debit card, access (parking or building) card, and/or some type of identification card. These cards typically have the user’s name, some type of identification number, and signature embossed on the card. Additionally, encoded information is often stored on the card as well. Card readers interpret this encoded information 9 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software There are two basic types: 1. By far the most common is the magnetic card reader. The encoded information is stored on a thin magnetic strip located on the back of the card. When the card is swiped through the magnetic card reader, the information is read. 2. Radio frequency card readers are not as common but more convenient because they do not require the card to actually make contact with the reader. The card has a small RFID (radio frequency identification) microchip that contains the user’s encoded information. Whenever the card is passed within a few inches of the card reader, the user’s information is read. (See Figure 7-13) Bar Code Readers You are probably familiar with bar code readers or scanners from grocery stores. (See Figure 7-14) These devices are either handheld wand readers or platform scanners. They contain photoelectric cells that scan or read barcodes, or the vertical zebra-striped marks printed on product containers. Almost all supermarkets use electronic cash registers and a bar code system called the Universal Product Code (UPC). At the checkout counter, electronic cash registers use a bar code reader to scan each product’s UPC code. The codes are sent to the supermarket’s computer, which has a description, the latest price, and an inventory level for each product. The computer processes this input to update the inventory level and to provide the electronic cash register with the description and price for each product. These devices are so easy to use that many supermarkets are offering customers self-checkout stations. Character and Mark Recognition Devices Character and mark recognition devices are scanners that are able to recognize special characters and marks. They are specialty devices that are essential tools for certain applications. 10 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software Three types are: 1. Magnetic-ink character recognition (MICR) —used by banks to automatically read those unusual numbers on the bottom of checks and deposit slips. A special-purpose machine known as a reader/sorter reads these numbers and provides input that allows banks to efficiently maintain customer account balances. 2. Optical-character recognition (OCR) —uses special preprinted characters that can be read by a light source and changed into machine-readable code. A common OCR device is the handheld wand reader. (See Figure 7-15) These are used in department stores to read retail price tags by reflecting light on the printed characters. 3. Optical-mark recognition (OMR) —senses the presence or absence of a mark, such as a pencil mark. OMR is often used to score standardized multiple-choice tests. Image Capturing Devices Optical scanners, like traditional copy machines, can make a copy from an original. For example, an optical scanner can make a digital copy of a photograph. Image capturing devices, on the other hand, create or capture original images. These devices include digital cameras and digital video cameras. Digital Cameras Digital cameras are similar to traditional cameras except that images are recorded digitally on a disk or in the camera’s memory rather than on film and then downloaded, or transferred, to your computer. (See Figure 7-16) You can take a picture, view it immediately, and even place it on your own Web page, within minutes. Digital photographs can be shared easily with others over the Internet. Digital Video Cameras Unlike traditional video cameras, digital video cameras record motion digitally on a disk or in the camera’s memory. Most have the capability to take still images as well. WebCams are specialized digital video cameras that capture images and send them to a computer for broadcast over the Internet. Some WebCams are built-in while others are designed to be attached to the computer monitor. (See Figure 7-17) 11 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software Audio-Input Devices Audio-input devices convert sounds into a form that can be processed by the system unit. By far the most widely used audio-input device is the microphone. Audio input can take many forms, including the human voice and music. Voice Recognition Systems Voice recognition systems use a microphone, a sound card, and special software. These systems allow users to operate computers and other devices as well as to create documents using voice commands. Examples include voice controlled dialing features on mobile phones, navigation on GPS devices, and control of car audio systems such as Microsoft Sync. Specialized portable voice recognition systems are widely used by doctors, lawyers, and others to record dictation. (See Figure 7-18) These devices are able to record for several hours before connecting to a computer system to edit, store, and print the dictated information. Some systems are even able to translate dictation from one language to another, such as from English to Japanese. What Is Output? Output is processed data or information. Output typically takes the form of text, graphics, photos, audio, and/or video. For example, when you create a presentation using a presentation graphics program, you typically input text and graphics. You also could include photographs and even add voice narration. The output would be the completed presentation. Output devices are any hardware used to provide or to create output. They translate information that has been processed by the system unit into a form that humans can understand. There are a wide range of output devices. The most widely used are monitors, printers, and audio-output devices. Monitors The most frequently used output device is the monitor. Also known as display screens, monitors present visual images of text and graphics. The output is often referred to as soft copy. Monitors vary in size, shape, and cost. Almost all, however, have some basic distinguishing features. Features The most important characteristic of a monitor is its clarity. Clarity refers to the quality and sharpness of the displayed images. It is a function of several monitor features, including resolution, dot pitch, refresh rate, size, and aspect ratio. Resolution is one of the most important features. Images are formed on a monitor by a series of dots or pixels ( picture elements). (See Figure 7-19) Resolution is expressed as a matrix of these dots or pixels. For example, many monitors today have a resolution of 1,600 pixel columns by 1,200 pixel rows for a total of 1,920,000 pixels. The higher a monitor’s resolution (the more pixels), 12 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software the clearer the image produced. See Figure 7-20 for the most common monitor resolutions. Dot (pixel) pitch is the distance between each pixel. Most newer monitors have a dot pitch of.31 mm (31/100th of a millimeter) or less. The lower the dot pitch (the shorter the distance between pixels), the clearer the images produced. Refresh rate indicates how often a displayed image is updated or refreshed. Most monitors operate at a rate of 75 hertz, which means that the monitor is refreshed 75 times each second. Images displayed on monitors with refresh rates lower than 75 hertz appear to flicker and can cause eye strain. The faster the refresh rate (the more frequently images are redrawn), the better the quality of images displayed. Size, or active display area, is measured by the diagonal length of a monitor’s viewing area. Common sizes are 15, 17, 19, 21, and 24 inches. Aspect ratio is determined by the width of a monitor divided by its height. Common aspect ratios for monitors are 4:3 (standard, similar to traditional television pictures) and 16:10 (wide screen). Flat-Panel Monitors Flat-panel monitors are the most widely used type of monitor today. Compared to other types, they are thinner, are more portable, and require less power to operate. (See Figure 7-21) Many of today’s flat-panel monitors are LCD (liquid crystal display). There are two basic types: passive-matrix and active-matrix. Passive-matrix or dual-scan monitors create images by scanning the entire screen. This type requires very little power, but the clarity of the images is not as sharp. Active-matrix or thin film transistor (TFT) monitors do not scan down the screen; instead, each pixel is independently activated. They can display more colors with better clarity. Activematrix monitors are more expensive and require more power. OLED (organic light-emitting diode) is a newer technology and is becoming widely used. Unlike LCD, OLED technology has the benefits of lower power consumption and longer battery life, as well as possibilities for much thinner displays. Cathode-Ray Tubes Just a few years ago, the most common type of monitor for the office and the home was the cathode-ray tube (CRT). (See Figure 7-22) These monitors are typically placed directly on the system unit or on the desktop. CRTs are similar in size and technology to older televisions. Compared to other types of monitors, their primary advantages are low cost and excellent resolution. Their primary disadvantages are that they are bulky, are less energy efficient, and occupy a considerable amount of space on the desktop. Discarded CRTs are a serious threat to our environment. Each color CRT contains approximately four pounds of lead and numerous other hazardous 13 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software materials. Don’t just throw out an obsolete CRT. Dispose of it in a responsible manner through an EPA-certified recycling program. Most large cities and manufacturers including IBM, Microsoft, and Dell have certified programs. Other Monitors There are several other types of monitors. These monitors are used for more specialized applications, such as reading books, making presentations, and watching television. Three of these specialized devices are book readers, data projectors, and high-definition television. 1. E-book readers are handheld, book-sized devices that display text and graphics. To learn more about one of the most widely used e- book readers, see Making IT Work for You: Amazon Kindle on page 203. Using content downloaded from the Web or from special cartridges, these devices are used to read newspapers, magazines, and entire books. (See Figure 7-23) These devices use a special type of screen called electronic paper or e-paper that requires power only when changing pages, and not the entire time a page is displayed on the screen. 2. Data projectors are specialized devices similar to slide projectors. These devices, however, connect to microcomputers and project computer output just as it would appear on a monitor. Data projectors are commonly used for presentations almost anywhere from the classroom to the boardroom. 3. High-definition television (HDTV) delivers a much clearer and more detailed wide-screen picture than regular television. Because the output is digital, users can readily freeze video sequences to create high-quality still images. The video and still images can then be digitized, edited, and stored on disk for later use. This technology is very useful to graphic artists, designers, and publishers. One the most recent and dramatic advances is 3D HDTV. (See Figure 7-24.) Using special viewing glasses, 3D HDTV provides theater-quality three- dimensional viewing. Printers You probably use a printer with some frequency to print homework assignments, photographs, and Web pages. Printers translate information that has been processed by the system unit and present the information on paper. Printer output is often called hard copy. Features There are many different types of printers. Almost all, however, have some basic distinguishing features, including resolution, color capability, speed, memory, and duplex printing. 14 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software Resolution for a printer is similar to monitor resolution. It is a measure of the clarity of images produced. Printer resolution, however, is measured in dpi (dots per inch). (See Figure 7-25) Most printers designed for personal use average 1,200 dpi. The higher the dpi, the better the quality of images produced. Color capability is provided by most printers today. Users typically have the option to print either with just black ink or with color. Because it is more expensive to print in color, most users select black ink for letters, drafts, and homework. Color is used more selectively for final reports containing graphics and for photographs. Speed is measured in the number of pages printed per minute. Typically, printers for personal use average 15 to 19 pages per minute for single-color (black) output and 13 to 15 pages per minute for color output. Memory within a printer is used to store printing instructions and documents waiting to be printed. The more memory in a printer, the faster it will be able to create large documents. Duplex printing allows automatic printing on both sides of a sheet of paper. Although not currently a standard feature for all printers, it will likely become standard in the future as a way to reduce paper waste and to protect the environment. Ink-Jet Printers Ink-jet printers spray ink at high speed onto the surface of paper. This process not only produces a letter-quality image but also permits printing to be done in a variety of colors, making them ideal for select special applications. (See Figure 7-26) Ink-jet printers are the most widely used printers. They are reliable, quiet, and relatively inexpensive. The most costly aspect of ink-jet printers is replacing the ink cartridges. For this reason, most users specify black ink for the majority of print jobs and use the more expensive color printing for select applications. Typical ink-jet printers produce 17 to 19 pages per minute of black-only output and 13 to 15 pages of color output. 15 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software Laser Printers The laser printer uses a technology similar to that used in a photocopying machine. Laser printers use a laser light beam to produce images with excellent letter and graphics quality. More expensive than ink-jet printers, laser printers are faster and are used in applications requiring high quality output. (See Figure 7-27) There are two categories of laser printers. 1. Personal laser printers are less expensive and are used by many single users. They typically can print 15 to 17 pages a minute. 2. Shared laser printers typically support color, are more expensive, and are used (shared) by a group of users. Shared laser printers typically print over 50 pages a minute. Other Printers There are several other types of printers. These printers include dot-matrix printers, thermal printers, plotters, photo printers, and portable printers: Dot-matrix printers form characters and images using a series of small pins on a print head. Once a widely used microcomputer printer, they are inexpensive and reliable but quite noisy. In general, they are used for tasks where high-quality output is not required. Thermal printers use heat elements to produce images on heat-sensitive paper. These printers are widely used with ATMs and gasoline pumps to print receipts. Plotters are special-purpose printers for producing a wide range of specialized output. Using output from graphics tablets and other graphical input devices, plotters create maps, images, and architectural and engineering drawings. Plotters are typically used by graphic artists, engineers, and architects to print out designs, sketches, and drawings. Photo printers are special-purpose printers designed to print photo quality images from digital cameras. (See Figure 7-28) Most photo printers print 3 × 5 " or 4 × 6 " images on glossy, photo-quality paper. Portable printers are usually small and lightweight printers designed to work with a notebook computer. Portable printers may be ink-jet or laser printers, print in black and white or color, and connect with USB. Audio-Output Devices Audio-output devices translate audio information from the computer into sounds that people can understand. The most widely used audio-output devices are speakers and headsets. (See Figure 7-29.) These devices are connected to a sound card in the system unit. The sound card is used to capture as well as 16 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software play back recorded sounds. Audio-output devices are used to play music, vocalize translations from one language to another, and communicate information from the computer system to users. Creating voice output is not anywhere near as difficult as recognizing and interpreting voice input. In fact, voice output is quite common. It is used with many soft-drink machines, telephones, and cars. It is used as a reinforcement tool for learning, such as to help students study a foreign language. It also is used in many supermarkets at the checkout counter to confirm purchases. One of its most powerful capabilities is to assist the physically challenged. Digital music players, also known as digital media players, are specialized devices for storing, transferring, and playing audio files. Older players are only able to play music saved in a special compressed audio file format known as MP3. Today, most players are able to use a wide variety of audio files. Many are capable of displaying video files as well. Some of the best-known audio and video players are the Apple iPod, Creative Zen, Microsoft Zune, and iRiver. (See Figure 7-30) Combination Input and Output Devices Many devices combine input and output capabilities. Sometimes this is done to save space. Other times it is done for very specialized applications. Common combination devices include fax machines, multifunctional devices, and Internet telephones. Fax Machines A fax machine is a standard tool in nearly every office. At one time, all fax machines were separate stand-alone devices for sending and receiving images over telephone lines. Now, most computer systems have that capability with the simple addition of a fax/modem board. To send a fax, these devices scan the image of a document converting the light and dark areas into a format that can be sent electronically over standard telephone lines. To receive a fax, these devices reverse the process and print the document (or display the document on your monitor) using signals received from the telephone line. Multifunctional Devices Multifunctional devices (MFD) typically combine the capabilities of a scanner, printer, fax, and copy machine. These multifunctional devices offer a cost and space advantage. They cost about the same as a good printer or copy machine but require much less space than the single-function devices they replace. Their disadvantage is that the quality and functionality are not quite as good as those of the separate single-purpose devices. Even so, multifunctional devices are widely used in home and small business offices. 17 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software Internet Telephones Internet telephones are specialized input and output devices for receiving and sending voice communication. (See Figure 7-31) Voice over IP (VoIP) is the transmission of telephone calls over computer networks. Also known as telephony, Internet telephony, and IP telephony VoIP uses the Internet rather than traditional communication lines to support voice communication. To place telephone calls using Internet telephony requires a high-speed Internet connection and special software and/or hardware. Skype and Vonage are two examples of popular Internet telephony service providers. The three most popular approaches are: Computer-to-computer communications allow individuals to place free long- distance calls. This application requires that both parties have a computer and that their computers are on and connected to the Internet when a call is placed. The required software is available from a variety of sources for free or at very low cost. Computer-to-traditional telephone communications allow a user to call almost any traditional telephone from his or her computer. Only the person making the call needs to have a computer connected to the Internet. The calling party subscribes to a special Internet phone service provider that supplies the required software and charges a small monthly and/or per-minute fee. Traditional telephone-to-traditional telephone communications do not require a computer. The calling party subscribes to a special Internet a traditional telephone to the Internet. The cost for this service is similar to the computer-to-traditional telephone approach. Compared to traditional telephone calls, Internet-supported calls may have a lower sound quality and may have an audio delay. However, most users report that this difference is not significant. EXPLAIN: Activity 10: INSTRUCTIONS: Answer the following questions below. 1. What Keys and Buttons Commonly Are Found on Desktop Computer Keyboards, and How Do Keyboards for Mobile Computers and Devices Differ from Desktop Computer Keyboards? 2. What Are the Various Types of Touch Screens, and How Does a Touch-Sensitive Pad Work? 18 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software TOPIC SUMMARY In this lesson, you have learned that Input is any data or instructions used by a computer. Input devices translate words, images, and actions into a form a computer can process. Keyboards are the most common way to input data. Common types are traditional, ergonomic, wireless, PDA, and virtual. Pointing devices accept pointing gestures and convert them to machine-readable input. Mouse controls a mouse pointer. A wheel button rotates to scroll through information. Three basic mouse designs are optical, mechanical, and cordless (wireless). Similar devices include trackball (roller ball), touch pad, and pointing stick. Touch screen operations are controlled by finger touching the screen. Multi-touch screens can be touched with more than one finger; commonly used on mobile devices such as the Apple iPhone. Joystick operations are controlled by varying pressure, speed, and direction. Stylus is a penlike device used with tablet PCs and PDAs. Handwriting recognition software translates handwritten notes. Scanners move across text and graphics. Scanning devices convert scanned text and images into a form that can be processed by the system unit. Optical scanners record light, dark, and colored areas of scanned text or images. There are three types: flatbed, document, and portable. Card readers interpret encoded information. Two types: magnetic (reads magnetic strip) and radio frequency (reads RFID microchip) card readers. Bar code readers are used with electronic cash registers in supermarkets. Wand readers or platform scanners read UPC codes that are used to determine product descriptions and prices and to update inventory levels. Character and mark recognition devices recognize special characters and marks. Three types: MICR (magnetic ink character recognition, read by readers/sorters), OCR, (optical character recognition), and OMR. (optical mark recognition). Image capturing devices create or capture original images. These devices include digital cameras (images downloaded to system unit for further processing and/or printing) and digital video cameras. WebCams capture and send images over the Internet; one design is built-in and the other is attached. Audio-input devices convert sounds into a form that can be processed by the system unit. Audio input takes many forms, including the human voice and music. Voice recognition systems use a combination of a microphone, a sound card, and special software. Output is data or information processed by a computer. Output devices translate processed text, graphics, audio, and video into a form humans can understand. Monitors ( display screens ) present visual images of text and graphics. Monitor output is described as soft copy. Clarity is a function of several monitor features including resolution (expressed as matrix of pixels or picture elements ), dot (pixel) pitch, refresh rate, size (active display area), and aspect ratio. 19 Module 1 | Introduction to Computers and Application Software Flat-panel monitors have become the standard for computer systems. Many are LCD (liquid crystal display). Two basic types are passive-matrix (dual-scan) and active-matrix (thin film transistor, TFT). OLED (organic light-emitting diode) is newer technology requiring lower power consumption, longer battery life, and potential for thinner displays. Cathode-ray tubes (CRTs) use technology similar to older televisions. Compared to flat-panels, CRTs are bulky, require more electricity to run, and occupy considerable space on the desktop. Three specialized types of monitors are e-book readers (screen known as electronic paper or e-paper) , data projectors, and high-definition television (HDTV). Printers translate information processed by the system unit and present the information on paper. Output from printers is described as hard copy. Some distinguishing features of printers include resolution (measured in dpi or dots per inch), color capability, speed, memory, and duplex printing. Ink-jet printers spray ink to produce high quality output. These printers are inexpensive and the most widely used type of printer. Laser printers use technology similar to photocopying machines. Two categories are personal and shared. Other printers include dot-matrix printers, thermal printers, plotters, photo printers, and portable printers. Audio-output devices translate audio information from the computer into sounds that people can understand. Speakers and headsets are the most widely used audio-output devices. Digital music players (digital media players) store, transfer, and play audio files. Many players also display video files. Fax machines send and receive images via standard telephone lines. Multifunctional devices (MFD) typically combine the capabilities of a scanner, printer, fax, and copy machine. Internet telephones receive and send voice communication. Voice over IP (VoIP), also known as telephony, Internet telephony, and IP telephony, use the Internet to transmit telephone calls. Three approaches are computer-to-computer, computer-to-traditional telephone, and traditional telephone-to- traditional telephone. REFERENCES: O’Leary, T.J / L.I. (2012). Computing Essentials. Making IT Work for You. Arizona State University Shelly, G.B.,Vermaat, M.E., Quasney, J.J., Sebok, S.L., Freund, S.M. (2011). Discovering Computers Fundamentals. Living in a Digital World. USA ODYSSEYWARE, (2018). Keybaoarding and Applications. Retrieved from https://www.odysseyware.com/courses/keyboarding-and-applications. Retrieved March 29, 2022. Panola College, (2014). Beginning Keyboarding. Retrieved from https://www.panola.edu/syllabi/documents/poft1429.pdf. Retrieved March 29, 2022.  Lesson 4 Secondary Storage I. Learning Outcomes: In this lesson, you should be able to: a. distinguish between primary and secondary storage b. discuss the important characteristics of secondary storage including media, capacity, storage devices, and access speed c. describe hard disk platters, tracks, sectors, and head crashes d. compare internal and external hard drives e. discuss performance enhancements including disk caching, RAIDs, file compression, and file decompression f. define optical storage including compact, digital versatile, and high-definition discs g. define solid-state storage including solid-state drives, flash memory, and USB drives h. define cloud storage and cloud storage services. i. discuss mass storage devices, enterprise storage systems, and storage area networks. II. Pre – Assessment: Explanation Circle the letter or fill in the correct answer. 1. RAM is referred to as _____ storage. a. direct c. nonvolatile b. optical d. secondary 2. ____ measures how much a particular storage medium can hold. a. access speed c. capacity b. memory d. storage 3. How tightly the bits can be packed next to one another on a disk is referred to as a. tracks c. sectors b. density d. configuration 4. Thick, rigid metal platters that are capable of storing and retrieving information at a high rate of speed are known as a. hard disks c. soft disks b. flash memory d. SAN 5. The data on an optical disc is represented by flat areas called ____ on the disc surface. a. surfaces c. flats b. lands d. pits 6. DVD stands for a. digital video data c. direct video disc b. digital versatile disc d. direct versatile disc 7. _____ is the hi-def standard. a. Blu-ray c. CD-ROM b. DVD + R d. Max RL 8. Another name for a USB drive a. flash drive c. floppy drive b. optical drive d. solid metallic drive 9. Online storage is also known as _____ storage. a. Blu-ray c. cloud b. DVD d. optical 10. Specialized high-capacity secondary storage device designed to meet organizational demands for data. a. Blue-ray Disc c. hi def b. mass storage d. floppy disk III. Lesson Map: Hard Disks Mass Storage Optical Storage Devices Disks Devices Solid- State Storage This diagram shows the different types of secondary storage devices which are used to save files to and from your computer.  IV. Core Content: ACTIVATE: Instruction: Before going over this learning module, explain the following. 1. Discuss four important characteristics of secondary storage. 2. What are the two types of hard disks? Briefly describe each. 3. What is solid state storage? 4. What is cloud storage? ACQUIRE: Storage An essential feature of every computer is the ability to save, or store, information. Random-access memory (RAM) holds or stores data and programs that the CPU is presently processing. Before data can be processed or a program can be run, it must be in RAM. For this reason, RAM is sometimes referred to as primary storage. Unfortunately, most RAM provides only temporary or volatile storage. That is, it loses all of its contents as soon as the computer is turned off. Its contents also are lost if there is a power failure that disrupts the electric current going into the system unit. This volatility results in a need for more permanent or nonvolatile storage for data and programs. We also need external storage because users need much more storage capacity than is typically available in a computer’s primary or RAM memory. Secondary storage provides permanent or nonvolatile storage. Using secondary storage devices such as a hard disk drive, data and programs can be retained after the computer has been shut off. This is accomplished by writing files to and reading files from secondary storage devices. Writing is the process of saving information to the secondary storage device. Reading is the process of accessing information from secondary storage. This chapter focuses on secondary storage devices. Some important characteristics of secondary storage include:  Media are the actual physical material that holds the data and programs. (See Figure 8-1)  Capacity measures how much a particular storage medium can hold.  Storage devices are hardware that reads data and programs from storage media. Most also write to storage media.  Access speed measures the amount of time required by the storage device to retrieve data and programs. Most desktop microcomputer systems have hard and optical disk drives, as well as ports where additional storage devices can be connected. Hard Disks Hard disks save files by altering the magnetic charges of the disk’s surface to represent 1s and 0s. Hard disks retrieve data and programs by reading these charges from the magnetic disk. Characters are represented by positive ( + ) and negative ( − ) charges using the ASCII, EBCDIC, or Unicode binary codes. For example, the letter A would require a series of 8 charges. (See Figure 8-2) Density refers to how tightly these charges can be packed next to one another on the disk. Hard disks use rigid metallic platters that are stacked one on top of another. Hard disks store and organize files using tracks, sectors, and cylinders. Tracks are rings of concentric circles without visible grooves. Each track is divided into invisible wedge-shaped sections called sectors. (See Figure 8-3) A cylinder runs through each track of a stack of platters. Cylinders are necessary to differentiate files stored on the same track and sector of different platters. When a hard disk is formatted, tracks, sectors, and cylinders are assigned. Hard disks are sensitive instruments. Their read/write heads ride on a cushion of air about 0.000001 inch thick. It is so thin that a smoke particle, fingerprint, dust, or human hair could cause what is known as a head crash. (See Figure 8-4) A head crash occurs when a read/write head makes contact with the hard disk’s surface or with particles on its surface. A head crash is a disaster for a hard disk. The disk surface is scratched and some or all of the data is destroyed. At one time, head crashes were commonplace. Now, fortunately, they are rare.  There are two basic types of hard disks: internal and external. Internal Hard Disk An internal hard disk is located inside the system unit. These hard disks are able to store and retrieve large quantities of information quickly. They are used to store programs and data files. For example, nearly every microcomputer uses its internal hard disk to store its operating system and major applications such as Word and Excel. To ensure adequate performance of your internal hard disk and the safety of your data, you should perform routine maintenance and periodically make backup copies of all important files. For hard-disk maintenance and backup procedures, refer to Chapter 5’s coverage of the Windows utilities Backup and Restore, Disk Cleanup, and Disk Defragmenter. External Hard Drives While internal hard disks provide fast access, they have a fixed amount of storage and cannot be easily removed from the system cabinet. External hard disks typically connect to a USB or FireWire port on the system unit, are easily removed, and effectively provide an unlimited amount of storage. (See Figure 8-5) External hard drives use the same basic technology as internal hard disks and are used primarily to complement an internal hard disk. Because they are easily removed, they are particularly useful to protect or secure sensitive information. Other uses for external drives include backing up the contents of the internal hard disk and providing additional hard-disk capacity. Performance Enhancements Three ways to improve the performance of hard disks are: 1. Disk caching improves hard-disk performance by anticipating data needs. It performs a function similar to cache memory discussed in Chapter 6. While cache memory improves processing by acting as a temporary high-speed holding area between memory and the CPU, disk caching improves processing by acting as a temporary high- speed holding area between a secondary storage device and the CPU. Disk caching requires a combination of hardware and software. During idle processing time, frequently used data is read from the hard disk into memory (cache). When needed, the data is then accessed directly from memory. The transfer rate from memory is much  faster than from the hard disk. As a result, overall system performance is often increased by as much as 30 percent. 2. Redundant arrays of inexpensive disks (RAID) improve performance by expanding external storage, improving access speed, and providing reliable storage. Several inexpensive hard-disk drives are connected to one another. These connections can be by a network or within specialized RAID devices. (See Figure 8-6) The connected hard-disk drives are related or grouped together, and the computer system interacts with the RAID system as though it were a single large- capacity hard-disk drive. The result is expanded storage capability, fast access speed, and high reliability. For these reasons, RAID is often used by Internet servers and large organizations. 3. File compression and file decompression increase storage capacity by reducing the amount of space required to store data and programs. File compression is not limited to hard-disk systems. It is frequently used to compress files on DVDs, CDs, and flash drives as well. File compression also helps to speed up transmission of files from one computer system to another. Sending and receiving compressed files across the Internet is a common activity. File compression programs scan files for ways to reduce the amount of required storage. One way is to search for repeating patterns. The repeating patterns are replaced with a token, leaving enough tokens so that the original can be rebuilt or decompressed. These programs often shrink files to a quarter of their original size. You can compress and decompress files using specialized utilities such as WinZip. Or, if a specialized utility is not available, you can use utility programs in Windows. For a summary of performance enhancement techniques, see Figure 8-7. Optical Discs Today’s optical discs can hold over 100 gigabytes of data. (See Figure 8-8) That is the equivalent of millions of typewritten pages or a medium-sized library all on a single disc. Optical discs are having a great impact on storage today, but we are probably only beginning to see their effects. In optical-disc technology, a laser beam alters the surface of a plastic or metallic disc to represent data. Unlike hard disks, which use magnetic charges to represent 1s and 0s, optical discs use reflected light. The 1s and 0s are represented by flat areas called lands and bumpy areas called pits on the disc surface. The disc is read by an optical disc drive using a laser that projects a tiny beam of light on these areas. The amount of reflected light determines whether the area represents a 1 or a 0. Like hard disks, optical discs use tracks and sectors to organize and store files. Unlike the concentric tracks and wedge-shaped sectors used for hard disks, however, optical discs typically use a single track that spirals toward the center of the disc. This single track is divided into equally sized sectors. Compact Disc Compact disc, or as it is better known, CD, is one of the most widely used optical formats. CD drives are standard on many microcomputer systems. Typically, CD drives can store from 650 MB (megabytes) to 1 GB (gigabyte) of data on one side of a CD. There are three basic types of CDs: 1. Read only— CD-ROM, which stands for compact disc–read-only memory, is similar to a commercial music CD. Read only means it cannot be written on or erased by the user. Thus, you as a user have access only to the data imprinted by the publisher. CD-ROMs are used to distribute large databases and references. They also are used to distribute large software application packages. 2. Write once— CD-R, which stands for CD recordable, can be written to once. After that they can be read many times without deterioration but cannot be written on or erased. CD-R drives often are used to archive data and to record music downloaded from the Internet. 3. Rewriteable— CD-RW stands for compact disc rewritable. Also known as erasable optical discs, these discs are very similar to CD-Rs except that the disc surface is not permanently altered when data is recorded. Because they can be changed, CD-RWs are often used to create and edit multimedia presentations. Digital Versatile Disc DVD stands for digital versatile disc or digital video disc. This is a newer format that has replaced CDs as the standard optical disc. DVDs are very similar to CDs except that more data can be packed into the same amount of space. (See Figure 8-9) DVD discs can store 4.7 GB to 17 GB on a single DVD disc—17 times the capacity of CDs. There are three basic types of DVDs, similar to CDs: 1. Read only— DVD-ROM stands for digital versatile disc–read-only memory. DVD-ROM drives are also known as DVD players. DVD-ROMs are having a major impact on the video market. While CD-ROMs are effective for distributing music, they can only contain just over an hour of fair-quality video. DVD-ROMs can provide over two hours of high- quality video and sound comparable to that found in motion picture theaters. The motion picture industry has rapidly shifted video distribution from video cassettes to DVD-ROMs. 2. Write once—DVD + R and DVD − R are two competing write-once formats. Both stand for DVD recordable. Each has a slightly different way in which it formats its discs. Fortunately, most new DVD players can use either format. These drives are typically used to create permanent archives for large amounts of data and to record videos. DVD recordable drives are rapidly replacing CD-R drives due to their massive capacity. 3. Rewriteable—DVD + RW, DVD − RW, and DVD-RAM are the three most widely used formats. DVD + RW and DVD − RW stand for DVD rewriteable. DVD-RAM stands for DVD random-access memory. Each format has a unique way of storing data. Unfortunately, older DVD players typically can read only one type of format. Newer DVD players, however, are able to read and use any of the formats. Rewriteable DVD disc drives have rapidly replaced CD rewriteable drives. Applications range from recording video from camcorders to developing multimedia presentations that include extensive graphics and video. Blu-ray Disc While CDs and DVDs are the most widely used optical discs today, the future belongs to discs of even greater capacity. While DVD discs have sufficient capacity to record standard- definition movies and music, they are insufficient for recording high-definition video, which requires about four times as much storage. This next generation of optical disc is called hi def (high definition), with a far greater capacity than DVDs. The hi def standard is Blu-ray Disc (BD). The name comes from the blue-colored laser that is used to read the disc. Blu-ray Discs have a capacity of 25 to 100 gigabytes, more than 20 times the capacity of a standard single-layer DVD. Although Blu-ray media are the same size as other optical media, the discs require special drives. Most of these drives are capable of reading standard DVDs and CDs in addition to Blu-ray. Like CDs and DVDs, Blu-ray has three basic types: read only, write once, and rewriteable. As with any optical disc, a device with recording capabilities is required for writing data. For a summary of the different types of optical discs, see Figure 8-10. Solid-State Storage Unlike hard disks, which rotate and have read/write heads that move in and out, solid- state storage devices have no moving parts. Data and information are stored and retrieved electronically directly from these devices much as they would be from conventional computer memory. Solid-State Drives Solid-state drives (SSDs) are designed to be connected inside a microcomputer system the same way an internal hard disk would be but contain solid state memory instead of magnetic disks to store data. (See Figure 8-11) SSDs are faster and more durable than hard disks. SSDs also require less power, which can lead to increased battery life for laptops and mobile devices. SSDs are more expensive and generally have a lower capacity than hard disks, but this is changing as the popularity of SSDs continues to increase. Flash Memory Flash memory cards are small solid-state storage devices widely used in portable devices such as mobile phones and GPS navigation systems. (See Figure 8-12) Flash memory also is used in a variety of specialized input devices to capture and transfer data to desktop computers.  For example, flash memory is used to store images captured from digital cameras and then to transfer the images to desktop and other computers. Flash memory is used in digital media players like the iPod to store and play music and video files. USB Drives USB drives, or flash drives, are so compact that they can be transported on a key ring. (See Figure 8-13) These drives conveniently connect directly to a computer’s USB port to transfer files and can have capacities ranging from 1 GB to 256 GB, with a broad price range to match. Due to their convenient size and large capacities, USB drives have become a very popular option for transporting data and information between computers, specialty devices, and the Internet. Cloud Storage Recently, many applications that would have required installation on your computer to run have moved to the Web. Numerous Web sites now exist to provide application services. As we have discussed, this is known as cloud computing, where the Internet acts as a “cloud” of servers that supply applications as a service rather than a product. Additionally, these servers provide cloud storage, also known as online storage.  If you have used Google Apps to create a word processing document or a spreadsheet, used Mint.com to manage your financial information, or stored data using Amazon S3, you have already used cloud computing. (See Figure 8-14.) The processing power of the service provider’s server is used to run the applications and your local computer is responsible only for displaying the results. The applications and data can be accessed from any Internet-ready device. This means that even devices with little storage, memory, or processing power, such as mobile phones, can run the same powerful applications as a desktop computer. The benefits to this arrangement are numerous. Imagine how much easier it would be to install or upgrade software in a large company. In the past, a software technician would need to visit every computer the company owned to install the software from disk and manage licensing for the number of computers the software was purchased for. With software delivered from the cloud as a service, the company can simply purchase the appropriate number of accounts from the service provider and direct employees to use the provider’s Web site. There are numerous Web sites that provide cloud storage services. (See Figure 8-15) Mass Storage Devices It is natural to think of secondary storage media and devices as they relate to us as individuals. It may not be as obvious how important these matters are to organizations. Mass storage refers to the tremendous amount of secondary storage required by large organizations. Mass storage devices are specialized high-capacity secondary storage devices designed to meet organizational demands for data. Enterprise Storage System Most large organizations have established a strategy called an enterprise storage system to promote efficient and safe use of data across the networks within their organizations. (See Figure 8-16) Some of the mass storage devices that support this strategy are  File servers —dedicated computers with very large storage capacities that provide users access to fast storage and retrieval of data.  Network attached storage (NAS) —similar to a file server except simpler and less expensive; widely used for home and small business storage needs.   RAID systems —larger versions of the specialized devices discussed earlier in this chapter that enhance organizational security by constantly making backup copies of files moving across the organization’s networks.  Tape library —device that provides automatic access to data archived on a library of tapes.  Organizational cloud storage —high-speed Internet connection to a dedicated remote organizational cloud storage server. Storage Area Network A recent mass storage development is storage area network ( SAN ) systems. SAN is an architecture to link remote computer storage devices, such as enterprise storage systems, to computers such that the devices are as available as locally attached drives. In a SAN system, the user’s computer provides the file system for storing data, but the SAN provides the disk space for data. V. Topic Summary:  RAM is primary storage. Most RAM is volatile, meaning that it loses its contents whenever power is disrupted. Secondary storage provides non-volatile storage. Secondary storage retains data and information after the computer system is turned off.  Important characteristics of secondary storage include Media, Capacity, Storage devicesand Access speed.  Hard disks use rigid metallic platters that provide a large amount of capacity. They store data and programs by altering the electromagnetic charges on the platter’s surface. Files are organized according to Tracks, Sectors, Cylinders  Two types of hard disks are internal and external hard disks.  Three ways to improve hard disk performance are disk caching, RAID, and file compression and decompression.  Optical discs use laser technology. 1s and 0s are represented by pits and lands. Optical disc drives project light and measure the reflected light.  Compact discs (CDs) have typical capacity of 650 MB to 1 GB. Three types are CD-ROM (compact disc–read-only memory), CD-R (CD-recordable (CD-R drives are also known as CD burners)), and CD-RW (compact disc rewritable, erasable optical discs).  DVDs (digital versatile discs, digital video discs) have far greater capacity than CDs (4.7 GB to 17 GB). Three types are DVD-ROM (digital versatile disc–read-only memory; DVD players are drives), write once (DVD + R, DVD − R), and rewriteable (DVD + RW, DVD − RW, DVD − RAM).  Hi-def (high-definition) Blu-ray Discs are the next standard optical disc. Blu-ray Discs (BDs) have a capacity of 25 GB to 100 GB. Same size as other optical media, but much greater capacity and requires special drives. Three basic types: read only, write once, and rewriteable.  Solid-state storage devices have no moving parts and are more reliable and require less power than hard disks.  Solid-state drives are similar to internal hard disk drives except they use solid-state memory; are faster, more durable, and more expensive; and generally provide less capacity.  Flash memory cards are small solid-state storage devices that are widely used with notebook computers. They are used with a variety of specialized input devices including digital cameras to store and transfer images and digital media players like the iPod to store and transfer music and video files.  USB drives (flash drives) are so small that they fit onto a key ring. These drives connect to a computer’s USB port and are widely used to transfer data and information between computers, specialty devices, and the Internet.  With cloud computing, the Internet acts as a “cloud” of servers that supply applications as a service rather than a product. Cloud storage (online storage) is supplied by servers.  Mass storage refers to the tremendous amount of secondary storage required by large organizations. Mass storage devices are specialized high-capacity secondary storage devices.  Mass storage devices that support this strategy are file servers, network attached storage (NAS), RAID systems, tape libraries, and organizational cloud storage. A storage area network (SAN) is a method of using enterprise-level remote storage systems as if they were local to your computer. VI. References: Books: O’Leary, T.J / L.I. (2012). Computing Essentials. Making IT Work for You. Arizona State University Shelly, G.B.,Vermaat, M.E., Quasney, J.J., Sebok, S.L., Freund, S.M. (2011). Discovering Computers Fundamentals. Living in a Digital World. USA Web: ODYSSEYWARE, (2018). Keybaoarding and Applications. Retrieved from https://www.odysseyware.com/courses/keyboarding-and-applications. Retrieved August 2018. Panola College, (2014). Beginning Keyboarding. Retrieved from https://www.panola.edu/syllabi/documents/poft1429.pdf. Retrieved 1 June 2014. -End-