Form 1 Notes: Output Devices PDF

Lesson: Output Devices ====================== To get information out of a computer you need an output device. An **output device** is a piece of computer hardware that is used to get information or any other response *out* of a computer. If the output from an output device can be read by human bei...

Lesson: Output Devices ====================== To get information out of a computer you need an output device. An **output device** is a piece of computer hardware that is used to get information or any other response *out* of a computer. If the output from an output device can be read by human beings, it is said to be human readable. Example: a Microsoft Word Document. If it cannot be read by human beings, then it is said to be machine readable. Example: a barcode or QR code. **Barcode** **QR Code** ------------- -----------------------  Types of Output --------------- There are two types of output: soft copy and hard copy. Soft Copy output or temporary output refers to information that is displayed on a screen, or in audio (sound) or voice form through speakers. This kind of output disappears when the computer is switched off. Examples: a Microsoft Word Document or a digital song. Hard Copy output or permanent output refers to output printed on paper - this is output that you can touch and feel. Example: a textbook. Common Output Devices --------------------- 1. *Monitor or Visual Display Unit (VDU)* - Size - Resolution - Colour - Cursor / pointer - Scrolling 2. *Printer* Printers are devices which output a hard copy of your work. Some printers also perform the functions of a scanner, photocopier and fax machine. The two main categories of printers are **impact printers** and **non-impact printers**. Impact printers contain several metal hammers that strike an inked ribbon and from this action text or images are transferred onto the printing paper. 3. *Multimedia Projector* This is a device that is used to create and deliver multimedia presentations. The projector connects to a computer and images from it are projected onto a wall or screen. Multimedia presentations are presentations in which sound, photos, videos and text are combined. 4. *Speaker* This device outputs sound to users. The sound can be output to several people or an individual depending on the type of speaker that is used. Loudspeakers can play sound to a group of people however headphones are used by a person who wish to listen to sound without disturbing anyone around them. Headphones are small speakers that need to be placed close to one or both ears. Earphones or earbuds are very small headphones that fit inside the ear. A headset is a set of headphones, which has a microphone attached to allow users to speak and listen at the same time. 5. *Plotter* This is a device that uses coloured pens or toner to draw an image on paper. It is used by car designers and architects who want to print accurate charts or diagrams. Example: blueprints (**a design plan or technical drawing**). Note: See diagram on page 17 of textbook The main difference between a plotter and printer is the size of paper they can use. Traditional printers can create large prints comprising multiple sheets of paper but you can use large rolls of paper with a plotter, allowing for increased accuracy for scaling and ratios.