Output Devices (Cambridge International IGCSE Computer Science)
Exam board Cambridge International · IGCSEUpdated 2025-02-06
Spec point —
3.2.2· "2 Understand what is meant by an output device and why it is required"
Output Devices
What is an output device?
- Output devices are hardware components that receive information from a computer system and present it to the user in an understandable form
- They enable the computer to communicate the results of processed data or commands
Types of output devices
| Name of device | What does it do? | Where is it used? | Why is it used? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Actuator | - Converts energy into motion - Makes things move - Performs physical tasks based on instructions from a computer or control system | - Make a robot's arm move - Open a valve - Rotate a motor | - Essential in any system that requires movement |
| Digital Light Processing (DLP) projector | - Projects images onto a screen - Shows images or video by shining light through tiny mirrors | - Cinemas - Classrooms - Large presentations | - High-quality images |
| Inkjet printer | - Prints text and images onto paper by spraying tiny droplets of ink | - Home - Schools - Offices | - Low cost compared to other types of printer |
| Laser printer | - Heat from a laser fuses toner (fine powder) onto paper | - Offices - Schools | - High-quality prints - Fast print speed |
| Light Emitting Diode (LED) screen | - Displays images and video using tiny lights called LEDs | - Televisions - Computer monitors - Smartphones | - High-quality images - Bright - Energy efficient - Thin |
| Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) projector | - Projects images or video onto a screen by shining light through liquid crystal panels | - Offices - Classrooms - Home cinemas | - Bright - Excellent balance of quality and affordability |
| Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screen | - Displays images and video using liquid crystals with a backlight | - Televisions - Monitors - Smartphones - Laptops | - Energy efficient - Thin - Sharp images - Lightweight |
| Speaker | - Converts electrical signals into analogue sound waves to play music | - Televisions - Radios - Smartphones | - Multiple shapes and sizes |
| 3d printer | - Adds thin layers of plastic, one on top of another to form a three dimensional object | - Manufacturing - Medicine - Education - Home | - Create prototypes - Custom parts |
Choosing the right device
When recommending a device for a specific situation, consider the following factors:
-
User Needs
- What tasks will the user be performing? A graphic designer might need a graphics tablet, while a data entry clerk might need a keyboard with a number pad
-
User Skills
- Is the user comfortable with the device? A touch screen might be more intuitive for some users, while others might prefer a mouse and keyboard
-
Environment
- Where will the device be used? A wireless mouse might be suitable for a clutter-free office, while a wired mouse might be better for a public computer lab to prevent theft
-
Cost
- Higher-end devices often have more features but are also more expensive. Consider the budget and whether the extra features are worth the cost
Was this revision note helpful?
Build on this topic