Input Devices:
Input devices are hardware components that enable users to interact with a computer by providing data or commands. These devices allow users to input information into the computer for processing. Common examples of input devices include keyboards, mice, scanners, microphones, and webcams.Read more
Output Devices:
Output devices are hardware components that provide information or results from a computer to the user. These devices display or present the processed data generated by the computer. Examples of output devices include monitors, printers, speakers, and projectors.
Peripheral Hardware:
Peripheral hardware encompasses additional devices that extend the functionality of a computer system. These devices are not essential for the core operation of the computer but enhance its capabilities. Examples of peripheral hardware include external hard drives for additional storage, USB hubs to expand connectivity, graphics cards for enhanced graphics processing, and network routers for facilitating internet and local network communication.Read more
Computer System Devices and Peripheral Hardware
Input Devices:
| Device |
Example |
Use |
| Keyboard |
QWERTY keyboards, ergonomic keyboards |
Typing documents, sending emails, programming |
| Mouse |
Optical mice, trackballs |
Navigating through applications, selecting files |
| Scanner |
Flatbed scanners, document scanners |
Digitizing photographs, creating editable text |
| Microphone |
USB microphones, built-in laptop microphones |
Voice recording, online meetings |
| Webcam |
Built-in laptop webcams, external USB webcams |
Video conferencing, content creation |
Output Devices:
| Device |
Example |
Use |
| Monitor |
LCD monitors, LED monitors |
Viewing documents, watching videos |
| Printer |
Inkjet printers, laser printers |
Printing documents, photos, presentations |
| Speaker |
Stereo speakers, surround sound systems |
Playing music, watching movies |
| Projector |
Digital projectors, overhead projectors |
Presentations, watching movies on a large screen |
| Headphones |
Over-ear headphones, in-ear earphones |
Private listening, gaming |
Peripheral Hardware:
| Device |
Example |
Use |
| External Hard Drive |
USB external hard drives, SSDs |
Data backup, file storage |
| USB Hub |
Powered USB hubs, compact USB hubs |
Connecting multiple USB devices |
| Graphics Card |
NVIDIA GeForce, AMD Radeon |
Gaming, graphic design |
| Network Router |
Wi-Fi routers, wired routers |
Internet connectivity, local network communication |
Port Comparison
Port Comparison
| Port |
Purpose |
Function |
Speed |
| COM Port |
Communication with serial devices (e.g., older peripherals, industrial equipment) |
Asynchronous serial communication |
Varies, typically up to 115,200 bps (bits per second) |
| Parallel Port |
Connection to printers and other parallel devices |
Parallel data transfer (multiple bits simultaneously) |
Varies, commonly up to 2 Mbps (megabits per second) |
| LAN Port |
Local Area Network (LAN) connectivity for data exchange between devices |
Networking and data transmission within a local network |
Varies, commonly 10/100/1000 Mbps (megabits per second) |
| USB Port |
Universal connectivity for various peripherals (e.g., keyboards, mice, storage devices) |
Digital data transfer, power supply to connected devices |
Varies, USB 2.0 up to 480 Mbps, USB 3.0/3.1/3.2 up to 5 Gbps or higherRead more |
Plug-and-Play Technology Evaluation
Plug-and-Play Technology Evaluation
| Advantages |
Disadvantages |
| Automated Setup: |
Dependency on Software: |
| Devices are automatically recognized and configured upon connection, reducing the need for manual setup. |
Relies on operating system and driver support; may encounter issues if drivers are unavailable or outdated. |
| User-Friendly: |
Compatibility Challenges: |
| Simplified for users with easy and intuitive installation processes, enhancing user experience. |
Not all devices are universally compatible, leading to potential conflicts or limitations in functionality. |
| Time and Effort Saving: |
Unpredictable Behavior: |
| Reduces the time and effort required for hardware installation and configuration. |
Occasional instances of unpredictable behavior, such as conflicts or device recognition issues. |
| Hot Swapping: |
Security Concerns: |
| Allows users to connect or disconnect devices without rebooting, enhancing flexibility. |
Potential security risks if malicious devices are connected, as they may be automatically recognized.Read more |
