Unit

2 Input and Output Devices

Overview

Being able to manage and use our computer data and information is vital as explored in
the previous unit. However, how is the data entered into the computer, and conversely
how do we confirm that it is there? This unit explores just that. It examines computer
hardware needed by systems users to input data/information and how to view the
output of processed data and application programs. Hardware input devices are integral
in processing data into meaningful information. Different hardware devices enable data
to be input in a form that the computer can process and translate into an understandable
form for humans to interpret. Output devices are peripheral devices that enable us to
view, hear or store the result of the computer’s processed data.

Unit 5 Learning Objectives

By the end of this unit you will be able to:

1. Describe at least four (4) types of manual input devices

2. Describe at least four (4) types of direct input devices
3. Distinguish between four (4) types of output devices
4. Examine the impact of at least two (2) input devices, on the human body, due to
repetitive use of these devices.
5. Describe least two (2) the types of terminals

This unit comprises three sessions as follows:

Session 5.1: Keyboard and Pointing Input Devices

Session 5.2: Data Entry at the Source
Session 5.3: Softcopy and Hardcopy Output Devices

MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5 1

 Readings and Resources
Required:

National Open University of Nigeria. (2010). CIT101 Introduction To Computers

[Courseware]. Retrieved from http://tinyurl.com/nwkq6pd – Read Pages 14, 17 and 62
to 76.

Additional:

WikiBooks (2015). GCSE Computer Science/Input devices. Retrieved from h t t p s : / /

en.wikibooks.org/wiki/GCSE_Computer_Science/Input_devices

WikiBooks (2015). Hardware Devices: Input and output devices. Retrieved from
http://tinyurl.com/phse4gy

2 MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5

Session 5.1

Keyboard and Pointing Input Devices

Introduction
Computers need raw data to process into meaningful information. The interaction
between us humans and the computer to provide this data is usually done by keyboards
and pointing devices. This session introduces devices used for getting raw data into the
computer. Some software applications require different devices with certain characteristics
for data entry. These will also be examined in this session.

Learning Objectives
On completion of this session, you will be able to:

1. Describe the purpose of an input device.

2. Give examples and characteristics of direct input devices.
3. Match an input device with the most appropriate situation.
4. List the types of keyboards.
5. List the pointing devices and the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Data Input Context

Before we can use the computer for various tasks, including surfing the Internet or as part
of our daily work, computer systems need to convert data into meaningful information or
electronic presentations that are familiar to the user.

Data can be obtained in various forms for input into the computer. Actions by computer
users are the most common way of inputting data. Other ways to input data into a computer
for processing is through the transfer of data (or files) from other storage devices (such as
a hard-drive, memory stick or CD/DVD ROM) and transfer of data from another network
computer or through instructions (command and programs).

MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5 3

 Useful Link/Resources
Wikibooks (2015). GCSE Computer Science/Input devices. Retrieved from
https://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/GCSE_Computer_Science/Input_devices

Data is input from different devices in the following forms (Lemley, 2004):

1. Raw data, such as words, numbers, pictures, symbols, graphics, or sound which
needs to be processed into meaningful data.
2. Software programs that give the computer its instructions and therefore need to
be transferred from an external storage device to the computer’s internal memory.
3. Commands that instruct the computer to do a specific task. Examples include
special keywords or typed commands that are either entered from a keyboard, or a
left click from a mouse, or even a touch on a screen using a pointing device.
4. Responses or prompts either through sound or visual boxes requiring the user to
usually provide some typed response, reply or feedback, such as OK, Cancel, Yes
or No.

In essence, hardware devices are used to translate data into a form that the computer can
process and can be placed in three general categories:

• Keyboard,
• Pointing devices and
• Source Data Entry devices.

The devices in these categories, which are used to get this data input into the computer,
are described throughout this unit.

The Keyboard
As you can imagine the keyboard is most frequently used input device employed by the users of
computers. The keyboard is a vast improvement on the typewriter and comprises keys of letters,
numbers, some punctuation marks and other symbols as well as some pre-defined keys called
function keys. It is quite remarkable that users can type words and other commands which are
converted into electrical signals (ones and zeros) and input into a computer’s memory.

Readings and Resources

Readings:
Let’s read pages 62 to 68 of the course required e-text to see more about the keyboard:

National Open University of Nigeria. (2010). CIT101 Introduction To Computers [Courseware].

Retrieved from http://tinyurl.com/nwkq6pd

4 MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5

Additional Resource: More About Function Keys

Here is another video link which explains more about the keyboard function keys:

• TechOneStop (2014). Use of Keyboard Function keys F1 F12. Retrieved from https://www.
youtube.com/watch?v=IZ-gOxZHDUI

Types of Keyboards
There are many types of keyboards, from the mechanical to the ergonomic to the laser type. Yes,
the laser, quite futuristic I may add.

Useful Link/Resources
Use the link below to examine the some types of keyboards.
Wikipedia (2015). Keyboard Technology, Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/
Keyboard_technology

Pointing Devices
Besides keyboards, what other devices can be used to input data? What are pointing
devices? Well, pointing devices are used to move a cursor on the monitor corresponding
to the movement of the pointing device. The computer mouse is the most widely used
pointing device. It fits snugly inside the palm of your hand, and allows the user to send
commands to the computer. As you move the pointing device to the left, its movement is
mirrored on the monitor display in the same direction, with a corresponding pointer ( )
on the screen.

Readings and Resources

Let’s read pages 68 to 69 of the course required e-text to better understand the mouse and
its functions as well as some other pointing devices:

National Open University of Nigeria. (2010). CIT101 Introduction To Computers

[Courseware]. Retrieved from http://tinyurl.com/nwkq6pd

What is interesting to note through our readings and own experience is that a mouse
can provide input in a number of different ways. Specific actions that are included in all
mouse pointing devices include:

• A single-click of the left mouse button is used for

selecting an item or option on the screen.

• A single-click of the right mouse button is for

bringing a unique menu for any object on the
screen that you want to choose to do something
with.
Source: UWI Open Campus

MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5 5

 • double-clicking can open a program or special screen called a dialog box

• click and drag involves holding down the left mouse button while dragging or sliding
the mouse. This allows the user to drag, move and reposition items/information
anywhere on the screen.

It is interesting what the keyboard and mouse can accomplish. However, there are a
number of other pointing devices that have evolved since the mouse was invented. Many
of them have capabilities that are similar to the mouse. These specialized pointing devices
add additional features that support customized software applications that can react
based on the input devices. Some of the more common pointing devices are described in
table 5.1 below.

Pointing Device Description Advantage Disadvantage

Trackball and track point Some look like an Uses less Again requires much
inverted mouse space for ball control using a fin-
with the ball on movement ger or thumb. Also us-
the top or side than a mouse ing same wrist muscles
of the mouse for would, and so is tiring and can also
the user to roll. is not as tiring cause injuries
The track point is as using the
more commonly mouse.
found embedded
in the keyboard of
laptops.

Trackball

Source: UWI Open Campus

Trackpoint

Source http://tinyurl.com/pg-
fzmnq

6 MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5

Touch screen The user makes The natural Reaching out to touch
selection by just tendency the areas on the screen
touching the to touch an can become tiring if
screen. object is a there are many choices
distinct ad- to be made. The screen
vantage of the must also be large
touch screen. enough to accommo-
date the several choices
Smart Watch since fingers pads are
Source: http://tinyurl.com/nhd- bigger than the thin
d7kk cursors
Pen Input Used generally in Apart from Device must be trained
Personal Digital its small size, to recognize user’s
Assistants (PDA). it can imitate handwriting. Also the
Functions like handwriting user can lose the pen
a mouse with instead of since it is not usually
Tablet and Stylus
clicking replaced typing using attached to the device.
by tapping the keyboard.
Source: http://tinyurl.com/p37opys
screen.
Touch pad Uses a touch Similar to the The constraints of the
sensitive pad for touch screen size of the touch pad
controlling the but is usually can be restrictive, and
cursor. Cursor affixed around constant reaching for
follows sliding the keyboard the touch pad can also
finger movement area. be tiring.
Touchpad
across the pad.
Source: http://tinyurl.com/qju8coq Buttons allow for
clicking, or tap
on the pad with a
finger.
Joy stick Cursor motion Gives a more More expensive and
controlled either natural feel- much bigger than other
by a stick for the ing control for devices.
joystick or arrow motion in fly-
buttons for the ing or driving
game pad. games

Joystick 1 Clip Art

Source: http://tinyurl.com/b478mjo

Table 5.1 Utility Program examples.

Source: Lemley, L. (2004). Discovering Computers, Chapter 5, Retrieved from
http://uwf.edu/clemley/cgs1570w/notes/Concepts-5.htm

MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5 7

 Learning Activity 5.1 • Pointing Devices and their Impact (1 hour)

Instructions: The article referred to below is quite interesting and takes a careful look
at some injuries caused by the use of computers. It suggests alternative hardware
devices and methods to be used to assist those with challenges. From this article
answer the following questions in your online journal:
1. Explain one common problem that can result from constant use of pointing
devices.
2. Can you identify those persons who will not be able to use pointing devices?
3. What alternative ways can be made to allow those persons with disabilities/
impairments to use keyboards and pointing devices?
Article
DO-IT (2012). Working Together: Computers and People with Mobility Impairments,
Retrieved from http://tinyurl.com/nzpol5t

Useful Link/Resources
Do you want to know more about keyboards and pointing devices? Then view the following
resources on this:
• INDATAProject (2010). Pointing Devices Tech Tip [Video file]. Retrieved from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=64sb6jKSgJU
• Techquickie (2014). QWERTY vs Dvorak [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.
youtube.com/watch?v=tIJNusYZXMA

Session 5.1 Summary

This unit discussed the following concepts in relation to input devices – Keyboard and
pointing devices:

• Input includes software, data, or information that is entered into the computer’s
memory.
• Input devices such as the keyboard, mouse, and trackball enable the user to enter
data into the computer’s memory.
• A pointing device enables the user to control movements of a pointer on a screen.
• Repetitive use of input devices can have adverse effects on the human body.

8 MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5

Session 5.2

Data Entry at the Source

Introduction
Have you ever gone to the supermarket and seen the cashier scan an item? Did you ever
wonder how the cashier was able to enter the item information without using a keyboard?
This session addresses these questions and more. Capturing data at the source is a term
that implies that these devices enable the data to be entered or captured from its origin
or source with minimal or no interference from the user. The advantages for this method
are to eliminate extra handling and save time in the user entering the data, thus lowering
labour cost, and reducing errors.

Learning Objectives
On completion of this session, you will be able to:

1. Examine source data entry technology.

2. Recognize at least three (3) input devices associated with source data entry.

Source Data Entry

Source data entry (also known as source data automation) minimizes any mistakes that
may occur during data input, and avoids having to re-enter the data. Data is fed directly
from a storage device, application program or via a networked device that is attached to
the computer (Jones, 2013). Some examples of devices that use source data entry methods
are: barcode reader or scanner used in the supermarket: an air conditioning unit that
monitors the temperature of a room; a device that maintains a consistent environment in
an incubator; an altimeter in an airplane; automated downloads for different application
programs; devices that are used in a controlled environment to maintain the humidity; or
devices that test the water in a pond for acidity or alkalinity.

As you can imagine source data entry is quite amazing. The following areas and
technologies are linked closed with source data entry:

MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5 9

 • Scanners:- used in office settings to scan images or documents
• Barcode Reader :- for identifying inventory or stock in supermarkets or warehouses
• Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR):- used for reading cheques
• Magnetic Strip Reader :- used to read Debit cards like those used in ABM machines
• Optical Mark Recognition :- used to quickly scan and read multiple choice test papers
• Handwritten Character Recognition:- used to collect input data as the user writes
• Imaging:-used to collect data taken by cameras for example
• Data Collection Devices:- used to collect data at the souce e.g. weather and temperature
systems sensors.

Have a more in-depth look at the above mentioned source data entry devices areas from
the link provided below:

Learning Activity 5.2 • Exploring Source Data Entry Devices (1 hour)

Instructions: Additionally there is a variety of other miscellaneous input devices that

are now in use to capture just about any form of input available. Explore a few of
these additional input devices, finding pictures to illustrate an example of them and
identifying where you have seen any of them being used:

• Voice Input
• Touch Screens
• Eye/ Visual Input

It is very interesting the level of interaction and integration that can occur between the
human user and the computer in order to accomplish various tasks in a meaningful way.

Useful Link/Resources
Craving more around this amazing topic? Use the links below to enlighten yourself.

• McLeod, T. (2013). Source Data Automation [Video file]. Retrieved from https://
www.youtube.com/watch?v=l02bpf07vYM
• eLearning Portal (2013). Input Devices. Retrieved from http://tinyurl.com/qybukwp
• Jones, R. (2013). Input, output & other peripheral devices. Retrieved from http://
ib-computing.net/program/core/peripherals.html
• WikiBooks (2015). Introduction to Computer Information Systems/Input and Out-
put. Retrieved from http://ib-computing.net/program/core/peripherals.html

10 MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5

 Learning Activity 5.3 • Close to Call; taking it directly from the source (1 hour)

Instructions: We have explored plenty here. Therefore, consider a weather station

that uses SENSORS to take various climatic readings or measurements which are
stored or logged for later use. :
1. State the general name for the type of input that is required to take these
readings.
2. State what are the advantages of using these devices to log the data
compared to a human being taking the measurements.
3. Explain the kinds of readings that could be taken by the weather station.

Log your answers in your online journal.

Session 5.2 Summary

This Unit discussed the following concepts in relation to source data entry:

• Source data entry uses specialized equipment and/or technologies to capture data
and the source.
• Some source data entry technologies include MICR, OCR, and OMR.
• Speech recognition software enables a user to enter data into a computer by speaking
into a microphone.
• Video and images can be entered into a computer through using digital cameras or
scanners.

MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5 11

 Session 5.3

OUTPUT DEVICES

Introduction
We will now turn our attention to output devices. There are two different types of
computer output called: softcopy and hardcopy output. Softcopy output is intangible.
It is not a physical object like a print-out from a laser printer. Softcopy output from a
computer can only be heard or seen using output devices which can receive and display
the softcopy data. Conversely and as you could imagine hardcopy relates to tangible or
physical.

In this section we will discuss the different softcopy and hard output devices.

Learning Objectives
On completion of this session, you will be able to:

1. Describe the purpose of a softcopy output device.

2. Give examples and characteristics of visual output devices.
3. Give examples and characteristics of audio output devices.
4. Match an output device with the most appropriate scenario.
5. Match different types of printers with the most appropriate situation.
6. Explain what a terminal is and list the different types of terminals.

Softcopy Output
So far we have dealt extensively with input devices in this unit. Moreover in past units
we have explored how data gets processed. Now we will examine how the results of
processed data –.i.e. information – are displayed to the user. This is the primary purpose
of output devices. The following are the most common types of softcopy output devices:

• Monitors
• Audio devices
• Other Display Units (e.g. projectors)

12 MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5

Hardcopy Output
Now we turn our attention to physical computer generated hardcopy output and the
various devices that accomplish such.

In this part of the session we will examine the various types of printers that you can possibly use.
You will find that using printers can have advantages and disadvantages based on what you want
to use them to do. You may already know that while some printers are fast at printing, some are
extremely slow. Similarly while some are quiet, some are very noisy. Some can be more expensive
than others but more efficient at using ink.

Readings and Resources

Readings:

Read using the link below for further information on the output of peripheral devices
and printers:

• WikiBooks (2015). Hardware Devices: Output devices. Retrieved from http://tinyurl.

com/o8dklb8

• Wikipedia (2015). Soft copy. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soft_

copy

• Wikipedia (2015). Hard copy. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hard_

copy

Additional Resource

Use the link before to expand your knowledge on this topic:

• ScienceRound (2015). Science Documentary: 3D Printing, 3D Imaging, Ultra Fast

Laser Imaging Technology [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=2ajmnPEhtJQ

• eHow (2009). Computer Basics: What Are the Various Types of Printers? [Video file].
Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZusL76s9tk

• Kariyawasam, D. (2013). CRT LCD & LED [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.
youtube.com/watch?v=_O-2D5ryb2A

MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5 13

 Learning Activity 5.4 • Compare if you can (1 hour)

Instructions: Based on what we have read above compare and contrast the following,
stating two important advantages and disadvantages of each in the context of the type
of work that you do or what you normally use your computer devices to do:

• Monitors – CRT, LCD and LED. State what these acronyms mean as well.
• Printers – Inkjet and Laser printers. . Explain how you have personally encountered
the advantages and disadvantages of using these printers as well.

Log your answers in your online journal.

Session 5.3 Summary

The following presents a summary of the major application software concepts examined in this
unit:

• Two general types of output are softcopy and hardcopy output

• Monitors enable the user to view the computer’s processed data.

• The output is known as soft copy.

• Three types of monitors are the cathode ray tube (CRT), the liquid crystal display
(LCD), and the light emitting diodes (LED).

• A monitor’s quality is measured by screen size, resolution, and refresh rate.

• Printers produce permanent copies (hard copies) of the computer’s output.

• Each type of printer has its advantages and disadvantages based on what they will be
used to do.

• Visual output of text, graphics, or video is usually displayed on a monitor.

14 MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5

UNIT SUMMARY
In this unit we have learnt that input devices can be categorized as keyboards, pointing
devices or data entry from the source devices. Each category has its own advantages and
disadvantages although some users are somewhat inclined to use some types over others.
The main concern with input devices is the health concern with regard to keyboards and
the constant typing, which has led to the creation of the input devices which capture the
data from the source. Output devices are either softcopy or hardcopy output. Softcopy
is usually temporary output while hardcopy output can be printed and stored for future
use. The various types of soft- and hard-copy output must depend on the appropriateness
of the application. We also learnt about the advantages and disadvantages of using certain
types of printers over other types.

MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5 15

 References
DO-IT (2012). Working Together: Computers and People with Mobility Impairments,
Retrieved from http://tinyurl.com/nzpol5t

eHow (2009). Computer Basics: What Are the Various Types of Printers? [Video file].
Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZusL76s9tk

eLearning Portal (2013). Input Devices. Retrieved from http://tinyurl.com/qybukwp

INDATAProject (2010). Pointing Devices Tech Tip [Video file]. Retrieved from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=64sb6jKSgJU

Jones, R. (2013). Input, output & other peripheral devices. Retrieved from http://ib-
computing.net/program/core/peripherals.html

Kariyawasam, D. (2013). CRT LCD & LED [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.
youtube.com/watch?v=_O-2D5ryb2A

Lemley, L. (2004). Discovering Computers, Chapter 5, Retrieved from http://uwf.edu/

clemley/cgs1570w/notes/Concepts-5.htm

McLeod, T. (2013). Source Data Automation [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.
youtube.com/watch?v=l02bpf07vYM

National Open University of Nigeria. (2010). CIT101 Introduction To Computers

[Courseware]. Retrieved from http://tinyurl.com/nwkq6pd – Read Pages 14, 17
and 62 to 76.

ScienceRound (2015). Science Documentary: 3D Printing, 3D Imaging, Ultra Fast Laser

Imaging Technology [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=2ajmnPEhtJQ

Techquickie (2014). QWERTY vs Dvorak [Video file]. Retrieved from h t t p s : / / w w w.

youtube.com/watch?v=tIJNusYZXMA

WikiBooks (2015). GCSE Computer Science/Input devices. Retrieved from h t t p s : / /

en.wikibooks.org/wiki/GCSE_Computer_Science/Input_devices

WikiBooks (2015). Hardware Devices: Input and output devices. Retrieved from
http://tinyurl.com/phse4gy

WikiBooks (2015). Hardware Devices: Output devices. Retrieved from http://tinyurl.

com/o8dklb8

16 MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5

WikiBooks (2015). Introduction to Computer Information Systems/Input and Output.
Retrieved from http://ib-computing.net/program/core/peripherals.html

Wikipedia (2015). Hard copy. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hard_copy

Wikipedia (2015). Keyboard Technology, Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/

wiki/Keyboard_technology

Wikipedia (2015). Soft copy. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soft_copy

MGMT1000 Introduction to Computer Unit 5 17