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Notes on Input and Output Devices for IGCSE

The document provides an overview of input and output devices for IGCSE, detailing their functions, types, and uses. It categorizes input devices into manual and automatic, while output devices are divided into visual, physical, and audio. Additionally, it includes fun facts, a summary of key devices, and exam tips for understanding their real-world applications.

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Calvary Bible Church
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2 views

Notes on Input and Output Devices for IGCSE

The document provides an overview of input and output devices for IGCSE, detailing their functions, types, and uses. It categorizes input devices into manual and automatic, while output devices are divided into visual, physical, and audio. Additionally, it includes fun facts, a summary of key devices, and exam tips for understanding their real-world applications.

Uploaded by

Calvary Bible Church
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Notes on Input and Output Devices for IGCSE

1. Introduction

 Input Devices: Tools that send data into a computer (e.g., keyboard,
scanner).
 Output Devices: Tools that display/transmit processed data from a
computer (e.g., monitor, printer).
 Key Difference: Input devices send data; output
devices receive results. Some devices, like touchscreens, can be both.

2. Input Devices

Manual Input Devices (Require direct human interaction):

1. Keyboard:
o Function: Inputs text/commands via keys.
o Types: QWERTY, ergonomic, virtual (on-screen).
o Uses: Typing, shortcuts, gaming.
o Advantages: Standard input method; customizable.
o Disadvantages: Slow for non-typists; repetitive strain injury
(RSI) risk.
2. Mouse:
o Function: Controls cursor movement via clicks/drags.
o Types: Optical (LED), laser, trackball, wireless.
o Fun Fact: First mouse (1964) was wooden with two wheels!
3. Touchscreen:
o Function: Detects finger/stylus input on a display.
o Types: Resistive (pressure-sensitive), capacitive (electrical
charge).
o Uses: Smartphones, ATMs, interactive kiosks.
4. Graphics Tablet:
o Function: Draws with a stylus for digital art.
o Uses: Graphic design, animation.

Automatic Input Devices (Minimal human intervention):

1. Barcode Reader:
o Function: Scans black/white lines to identify products.
o Uses: Retail checkout, inventory management.
2. Sensors:
o Function: Detect environmental changes (e.g., temperature,
light).
o Examples: Thermistors (heat), motion sensors (security
systems).
3. Optical Mark Reader (OMR):
o Function: Reads pencil marks on pre-printed forms.
o Uses: Multiple-choice exams, surveys.
4. Biometric Devices:
o Function: Scans unique biological traits (e.g., fingerprints,
retina).
o Uses: Security access, smartphone unlocking.
5. MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Reader):
o Function: Reads magnetic ink characters (e.g., bank checks).
o Uses: Banking for fraud prevention.

3. Output Devices

Visual Output:

1. Monitor:
o Types: LCD (liquid crystal), LED (energy-efficient), OLED (vivid
colors).
o Key Terms: Resolution (e.g., 4K), refresh rate (Hz).
2. Projector:
o Function: Displays large-scale images on screens.
o Uses: Classrooms, home theaters.

Physical Output:

1. Printer:
o Types:
 Laser: Fast, high-quality text (toner powder).
 Inkjet: Affordable color printing (liquid ink).
 3D Printer: Creates objects layer-by-layer (e.g.,
prototypes).
2. Plotter:
o Function: Prints large-scale vector graphics (e.g., architectural
plans).

Audio Output:

1. Speakers/Headphones:
o Function: Converts digital signals to sound.
o Types: Surround sound, noise-canceling.
2. Actuators:
o Function: Converts electrical signals to mechanical movement.
o Uses: Robotics, automatic doors.
3. Braille Reader:
o Function: Outputs tactile text for visually impaired users.

4. Fun Facts & Trivia

 The QWERTY keyboard layout was designed in 1873 to slow typists and
prevent typewriter jams!
 The first touchscreen was invented in 1965 by E.A. Johnson.
 3D printing originated in the 1980s for rapid prototyping.

5. Summary

Catego
Key Devices Common Uses
ry
Keyboard, mouse, scanner, Data entry, automation,
Input
sensors security
Monitor, printer, speakers, Display, printing, sound,
Output
actuators robotics

Exam Tip: Focus on understanding how and why devices are used in real-
world scenarios (e.g., MICR in banking for security).

Revision Checklist:

 Define input/output devices with examples.


 Compare manual vs. automatic input devices.
 Explain advantages/disadvantages of common devices.
 Describe how emerging tech (e.g., VR headsets) combine input/output
functions.

Flashcards for Topic 2

1. Q: Name two input devices used in gaming.


A: Joystick, motion sensor.
2. Q: How does an OMR scanner work?
A: Reads pencil marks on paper (e.g., exam sheets).
3. Q: What is the main advantage of a 3D printer over traditional
manufacturing?
A: Customization – create unique objects on demand!

10 Essay Questions for Topic 2


1. Evaluate the impact of biometric scanners on personal privacy.
2. Compare the efficiency of QR codes vs. barcodes in retail.
3. Analyse how voice-activated devices (e.g., Alexa) have changed
human-computer interaction.
4. Debate: "Schools should replace textbooks with tablets."
5. Propose a new input device for people with physical disabilities.
6. Assess the role of actuators in automation industries.
7. Critique the reliability of fingerprint scanners in high-security
environments.
8. Explain how OMR reduces human error in exam grading.
9. Discuss the environmental pros/cons of using paper receipts vs.
digital receipts.
10. Predict how output devices might evolve in the next 20 years.

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