Computer Input and Output Devices

The functioning of a computer system is based on the combined usage of both input and output devices. Using an
input device we can give instructions to the computer to perform an action and the device reverts to our action
through an output device

Input Device Definition: A piece of hardware which helps us enter data into a computer is called an input device. For example
keyboard, mouse, etc.

Output Device Definition: A piece of hardware which gives out the result of the entered input, once it is processed (i.e. converts
data from machine language to a human-understandable language), is called an output device. For example printer, monitor,
etc.

List of Input Devices

Given below is the list of the most common input devices along with brief information about each of them.

1. Keyboard

 A simple device comprising keys and each key denotes either an alphabet, number or number commands which can be
given to a computer for various actions to be performed

 It has a modified version of typewriter keys

 The keyboard is an essential input device and computer and laptops both use keyboards to give commands to the
computer

2. Mouse

 It is also known as a pointing device

 Using mouse we can directly click on the various icons present on the system and open up various files and programs

 A mouse comprises 3 buttons on the top and one trackball at the bottom which helps in selecting and moving the
mouse around, respectively

 In case of laptops, the touchpad is given as a replacement of the mouse which helps in the movement of the mouse
pointer

3. Joy Stick

 It is a device which comprises a stick which is attached at an angle to the base so that it can be moved and controlled

 Mostly used to control the movement in video games

 Apart from a computer system, a joystick is also used in the cockpit of an aeroplane, wheelchairs, cranes, trucks, etc. to
operate them well

4. Light Pen

 It is a wand-like looking device which can directly be moved over the device’s screen

 It is light-sensitive

 Used in conjunction with computer’s cathode ray tube

5. Microphone

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  Using a microphone, sound can be stored in a device in its digital form

 It converts sound into an electrical signal

 To record or reproduce a sound created using a microphone, it needs to be connected with an amplifier

6. Scanner

 This device can scan images or text and convert it into a digital signal

 When we place any piece of a document on a scanner, it converts it into a digital signal and displays it on the computer
screen

7. Barcode Reader

 It is a kind of an optical scanner

 It can read bar codes

 A source of light is passed through a bar code, and its aspects and details are displayed on the screen

List of Output Device

The commonly used output devices have been listed below with a brief summary of what their function is and how
they can be used.

1. Monitor

 The device which displays all the icons, text, images, etc. over a screen is called the Monitor
 When we ask the computer to perform an action, the result of that action is displayed on the monitor
 Various types of monitors have also been developed over the years

2. Printer

 A device which makes a copy of the pictorial or textual content, usually over a paper is called a printer
 For example, an author types the entire book on his/her computer and later gets a print out of it, which is in
the form of paper and is later published
 Multiple types of printers are also available in the market, which can serve different purposes

3. Speakers

 A device through which we can listen to a sound as an outcome of what we command a computer to do is
called a speaker
 Speakers are attached with a computer system and also are a hardware device which can be attached
separately
 With the advancement in technology, speakers are now available which are wireless and can be connected
using BlueTooth or other applications

4. Projector

 An optical device which presents an image or moving images onto a projection screen is called a projector
 Most commonly these projectors are used in auditoriums and movie theatres for the display of the videos or lighting
 If a projector is connected to a computer, then the image/video displayed on the screen is the same as the one displayed
on the computer screen

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 5. Headphones

 They perform the same function as a speaker, the only difference is the frequency of sound
 Using speakers, the sound can be heard over a larger area and using headphones, the sound is only audible to the
person using them
 Also known as earphones or headset
The storage unit is a part of the computer system which is employed to store the information and instructions to be processed.
A storage device is an integral part of the computer hardware which stores information/data to process the result of any
computational work. Without a storage device, a computer would not be able to run or even boot up. Or in other words, we can
say that a storage device is hardware that is used for storing, porting, or extracting data files. It can also store information/data
both temporarily and permanently.

Primary Storage, also known as main storage or memory, is the main area in a computer in which data is stored for quick access
by the computer’s processor. Information must be transferred to primary storage. On today’s smaller computers, especially
personal computers and workstations, the term random access memory (RAM) – or just memory – is used instead of
primary, main storage, core memory, or immediate access storage, internal storage, and the hard disk, diskette, CD, and DVD
collectively describe secondary storage or auxiliary storage.

It allows very fast access to data. It is relatively move expensive. A CPU has three element or parts primary storage, arithmetic
logic unit (ALU), and control unit. Primary storage is fast and expensive as compared to secondary storage.

A secondary storage device refers to any non-volatile storage device that is internal or external to the computer. It can
be any storage device beyond the primary storage that enables permanent data storage. A secondary storage device is also
known as an auxiliary storage device, backup storage device, tier 2 storage, or external storage. These devices store virtually all
programs and applications on a computer, including the operating system, device drivers, applications and general user data.

the Secondary storage media can be fixed or removable. Fixed Storage media is an internal storage medium like a hard disk that
is fixed inside the computer. A storage medium that is portable and can be taken outside the computer is termed removable
storage media. The main advantage of using secondary storage devices is:

In Secondary storage devices, the stored data might not be under the direct control of the operating system. For example, many
organizations store their archival data or critical documents on secondary storage drives, which their main network cannot
access to ensure their preservation whenever a data breach occurs.

Since these drives do not interact directly with the main infrastructure and can be situated in a remote or secure site, it is
unlikely that a hacker may access these drives unless they're physically stolen.

Characteristics of Secondary Storage Devices

These are some characteristics of secondary memory, which distinguish it from primary memory, such as:

o It is non-volatile, which means it retains data when power is switched off

o It allows for the storage of data ranging from a few megabytes to petabytes.

o It is cheaper as compared to primary memory.

o Secondary storage devices like CDs and flash drives can transfer the data from one device to another.

Types of Secondary Storage Device

Here are the two types of secondary storage devices, i.e., fixed storage and removable storage.

1. Fixed Storage

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Fixed storage is an internal media device used by a computer system to store data. Usually, these are referred to as the fixed
disk drives or Hard Drives.

Fixed storage devices are not fixed. These can be removed from the system for repairing work, maintenance purposes, and also
for an upgrade, etc. But in general, this can not be done without a proper toolkit to open up the computer system to provide
physical access, which needs to be done by an engineer.

Technically, almost all data, i.e. being processed on a computer system, is stored on some built-in fixed storage device. We have
the following types of fixed storage:

o Internal flash memory (rare)

o SSD (solid-state disk) units

o Hard disk drives (HDD)

2. Removable Storage

Removable storage is an external media device that is used by a computer system to store data. Usually, these are
referred to as the Removable Disks drives or the External Drives. Removable storage is any storage device that can
be removed from a computer system while the system is running. Examples of external devices include CDs, DVDs,
Blu-ray disk drives, and diskettes and USB drives. Removable storage makes it easier for a user to transfer data from
one computer system to another.

The main benefit of removable disks in storage factors is that they can provide the fast data transfer rates associated
with storage area networks (SANs). We have the following types of Removable Storage:

Optical discs (CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs)

Memory cards

Floppy disks

Magnetic tapes

Disk packs

Paper storage (punched tapes, punched cards)

Random Access Memory (RAM) is a type of computer memory that is used to

temporarily store data that the computer is currently using or processing. RAM is volatile
memory, which means that the data stored in it is lost when the power is turned off. RAM
is typically used to store the operating system, application programs, and data that the
computer is currently using.
Read Only Memory (ROM) is a type of computer memory that is used to permanently
store data that does not need to be modified. ROM is non-volatile memory, which means
that the data stored in it is retained even when the power is turned off. ROM is typically
used to store the computer’s BIOS (basic input/output system), which contains the
instructions for booting the computer, as well as firmware for other hardware devices.
Difference between RAM and ROM

Difference Random Access Memory (RAM) Read Only Memory (ROM)

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Difference Random Access Memory (RAM) Read Only Memory (ROM)

RAM is a volatile memory that could store ROM is a non-volatile memory that the
Data-Retention the could retain the

data as long as the power is supplied. data even when the power is turned off.

Read/Write Read and write operations are supported. Only read operations are supported.

It is typically used to store firmware or

Used to store the data that has to be microcode, which is used
Use
currently processed by CPU temporarily. to initialize and control hardware
components of the computer.

Speed It is a high-speed memory. It is much slower than the RAM.

CPU CPU cannot easily access data stored in

CPU can easily access data stored in RAM.
Interaction ROM.

Size and Large size with higher capacity, concerning Small size with less capacity, concerning
Capacity ROM. RAM.

Used as/in CPU Cache, Primary memory. Firmware, Micro-controllers.

The data stored is not as easily

Accessibility The data stored is easily accessible.
accessible as in the concerning RAM.

Cost RAM is more costlier than ROM. ROM is cheaper than RAM.

A RAM chip can store only a few gigabytes A ROM chip can store multiple
Chip Size
(GB) of data. megabytes (MB) of data.

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Difference Random Access Memory (RAM) Read Only Memory (ROM)

Used for the temporary storage of data Used to store firmware, BIOS, and other
Function
currently being processed by the CPU. data that needs to be retained.

Computer Networking
Computer Networking is the practice of connecting computers together to enable
communication and data exchange between them. In general, Computer Network is a
collection of two or more computers. It helps users to communicate more easily.
How Does a Computer Network Work?
Basics building blocks of a Computer network are Nodes and Links. A Network Node can be illustrated as
Equipment for Data Communication like a Modem, Router, etc., or Equipment of a Data Terminal like connecting
two computers or more. Link in Computer Networks can be defined as wires or cables or free space of wireless
networks.
The working of Computer Networks can be simply defined as rules or protocols which help in sending and receiving
data via the links which allow Computer networks to communicate. Each device has an I P Address, that helps in
identifying a device.
Basic Terminologies of Computer Networks
 Network: A network is a collection of computers and devices that are connected together to enable
communication and data exchange.
 Nodes: Nodes are devices that are connected to a network. These can include computers, Servers,
Printers, Routers, Switches, and other devices.
 Protocol: A protocol is a set of rules and standards that govern how data is transmitted over a network.
Examples of protocols include TCP/IP, HTTP, and FTP.
 Topology: Network topology refers to the physical and logical arrangement of nodes on a network. The
common network topologies include bus, star, ring, mesh, and tree.
 Service Provider Networks: These types of Networks give permission to take Network Capacity and
Functionality on lease from the Provider. Service Provider Networks include Wireless Communications, Data
Carriers, etc.
 IP Address: An IP address is a unique numerical identifier that is assigned to every device on a network. IP
addresses are used to identify devices and enable communication between them.
 DNS: The Domain Name System (DNS) is a protocol that is used to translate human-readable domain names
(such as www.google.com) into IP addresses that computers can understand.
 Firewall: A firewall is a security device that is used to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network
traffic. Firewalls are used to protect networks from unauthorized access and other security threats.

Uses of Computer Networks

 Communicating using email, video, instant messaging, etc.
 Sharing devices such as printers, scanners, etc.
 Sharing files.
 Sharing software and operating programs on remote systems.
 Allowing network users to easily access and maintain information.

Types of Computer Networks

There are mainly five types of Computer Networks
1. Personal Area Network (PAN)
2. Local Area Network (LAN)
3. Campus Area Network (CAN)
4. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
5. Wide Area Network (WAN)
1. Personal Area Network (PAN)
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PAN is the most basic type of computer network. This network is restrained to a single person, that is,
communication between the computer devices is centered only on an individual’s workspace. PAN offers a network
range of 1 to 100 meters from person to device providing communication. Its transmission speed is very high with
very easy maintenance and very low cost.
This uses Bluetooth, IrDA, and Zigbee as technology.
Examples of PAN are USB, computer, phone, tablet, printer, PDA, etc.

2. Local Area Network (LAN)

LAN is the most frequently used network. A LAN is a computer network that connects computers through a
common communication path, contained within a limited area, that is, locally. A LAN encompasses two or more
computers connected over a server. The two important technologies involved in this network a re Ethernet and Wi-fi.
It ranges up to 2km & transmission speed is very high with easy maintenance and low cost.
Examples of LAN are networking in a home, school, library, laboratory, college, office, etc.
3. Campus Area Network (CAN)
CAN is bigger than a LAN but smaller than a MAN. This is a type of computer network that is usually used in places
like a school or colleges. This network covers a limited geographical area that is, it spreads across several buildings
within the campus. CAN mainly use Ethernet technology with a range from 1km to 5km.
Its transmission speed is very high with a moderate maintenance cost and moderate cost.
Examples of CAN are networks that cover schools, colleges, buildings, etc.
Campus Area Network (CAN)
4. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
A MAN is larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN. This is the type of computer network that conn ects computers
over a geographical distance through a shared communication path over a city, town, or metropolitan area. This
network mainly uses FDDI, CDDI, and ATM as the technology with a range from 5km to 50km. Its transmission
speed is average. It is difficult to maintain and it comes with a high cost.
Examples of MAN are networking in towns, cities, a single large city, a large area within multiple buildings, etc
5. Wide Area Network (WAN)
WAN is a type of computer network that connects computers over a large geographical distance through a shared
communication path. It is not restrained to a single location but extends over many locations. WAN can also be
defined as a group of local area networks that communicate with each other with a range above 50km.
Here we use Leased-Line & Dial-up technology. Its transmission speed is very low and it comes with very high
maintenance and very high cost.
The most common example of WAN is the Internet.

1. Internet :
An Internet is a public network and it is not owned by anyone. Since, it is a public network therefore anyone can
access it without a valid username and password. Internet is the largest network in the case of number of
connected devices. In this, there are numerous users and it provides lots of information to users. It acts as a tool for
sharing information all over the world.

2. Extranet :
Extranet is a private network and it is owned by a single or multiple organization. Since, it is a private network
therefore no one can access it without a valid username and password. It acts as a medium to share the
information between the internal and external members. It is more secure network and managed by numerous
organizations.

S.NO Internet Extranet

1. It is used as public network. Whereas it is used as private network.

2. An internet is less secure because it has zero While the extranet is more secure than the Internet.

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S.NO Internet Extranet

security level in the firewall.

In the case of the Internet, anyone can access it Whereas in the case of extranet, no one can access it
3.
without a valid username and password. without a valid username and password.

A large number of users can access the Whereas here, a limited number of users can access
4.
Internet. the extranet.

An internet acts as a tool for sharing information Whereas it acts as a medium to share the information
5.
all over the world. between the internal and external members.

Whereas extranet is owned by a single or multiple

6. An internet is not owned by anyone.
organization.

Unlike the internet, it is managed by numerous

7. An Internet is not managed by either authority.
organizations.

An internet is the largest network in the case of Whereas in the case of extranet, it is small in terms of
8.
number of connected devices. connected devices as compared to the internet.

9. An internet is less costly than extranet. Whereas in the case of extranet, it is more costly.

It’s users are the employees of the organization which

10. It’s users are the general public.
are connected.

11. It is not owned by anyone. It is owned by single or multiple organization.

12. There is no regulating authority for Internet. It is regulated by multiple organizations.

It is maintained by CIO, HR or communication

13. It is maintained by ISP.
department of an organization.

14. It is the network of networks. It is derived from Intranet.

Example: What we are normally using is Example: DELL and Intel using network for business
15.
Internet. related operations.

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 1. Speed: – As you know computer can work very
fast. It takes only few seconds for calculations that we take hours to complete. You will be surprised to know
that computer can perform millions (1,000,000) of instructions and even more per second.
Therefore, we determine the speed of computer in terms of microsecond (10-6 part of a second) or nanosecond (10
to the power -9 part of a second). From this you can imagine how fast your computer performs work.

2. Accuracy: – The degree of accuracy of computer is very high and every calculation is performed with the same
accuracy. The accuracy level is 7.
determined on the basis of design of computer. The errors in computer are due to human and inaccurate data.
3. Diligence: – A computer is free from tiredness, lack of concentration, fatigue, etc. It can work for hours without
creating any error. If millions of calculations are to be performed, a computer will perform every calculation with the
same accuracy. Due to this capability it overpowers human being in routine type of work.

4. Versatility: – It means the capacity to perform completely different type of work. You may use your computer to
prepare payroll slips. Next moment you may use it for inventory management or to prepare electric bills.
5. Power of Remembering: – Computer has the power of storing any amount of information or data.
Any information can be stored and recalled as long as you require it, for any numbers of years. It depends entirely
upon you how much data you want to store in a computer and when to lose or retrieve these data.

6. No IQ: – Computer is a dumb machine and it cannot do any work without instruction from the user. It performs
the instructions at tremendous speed and with accuracy. It is you to decide what you want to do and in what
sequence. So a computer cannot take its own decision as you can.
7. No Feeling: – It does not have feelings or emotion, taste, knowledge and experience. Thus it does not get tired
even after long hours of work. It does not distinguish between users.
8. Storage: – The Computer has an in-built memory where it can store a large amount of data. You can also store
data in secondary storage devices such as floppies, which can be kept outside your computer and can be carried to
other computers.