Input/output (I/O) devices are essential components of a computer system, enabling communication between the user and the computer.
Here are some common examples:
- Keyboard: The keyboard is a primary input device that allows users to enter text, numbers, and commands into the computer system.
- Mouse: A mouse is another input device used to control the movement of a cursor on the screen and interact with graphical user interfaces (GUIs) through clicking and dragging actions.
- Touchscreen: Touchscreens allow users to input commands directly by touching the screen, commonly used in smartphones, tablets, and some computers.
- Scanner: Scanners are input devices used to convert physical documents, images, or objects into digital images that can be processed and stored on a computer.
- Microphone: Microphones are input devices that capture audio input, enabling users to record sound, dictate text, or communicate via voice commands.
- Webcam: Webcams capture video input, allowing users to participate in video conferencing, record videos, or take pictures.
- Joystick/Gamepad: These devices are used primarily for gaming and simulation applications, allowing users to control movements and actions within virtual environments.
- Graphics Tablet: Graphics tablets are input devices used by digital artists and designers to draw and sketch directly onto a digital surface, which is then captured and processed by the computer.
- Barcode Reader: Barcode readers are input devices that scan and decode barcode symbols, commonly used in retail, inventory management, and logistics applications.
- Biometric Scanner: Biometric scanners, such as fingerprint readers or facial recognition systems, capture unique physiological or behavioural characteristics for authentication and security purposes.
- Printer: Printers are output devices used to produce hard copies of digital documents, images, or other content stored on a computer.
- Monitor/Display: Monitors or displays are output devices that present visual information to users, allowing them to view text, graphics, videos, and other multimedia content.
- Speakers: Speakers are output devices that reproduce audio output, allowing users to listen to music, watch videos, or hear system alerts and notifications.
These I/O devices play crucial roles in facilitating communication between users and computers, enabling input of commands and data, as well as output of processed information in various formats.