Output Devices (Cambridge (CIE) O Level Computer Science)

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Written by: James Woodhouse

Reviewed by: Lucy Kirkham

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

Last updated: 5 September 2024

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