LECTURE NOTES: INPUT & OUTPUT
DEVICES
Subject: Computer Science
Level: O Level – Cameroon GCE
Topic: Input and Output Devices
1. INTRODUCTION
Every computer system has hardware and software. Hardware is the physical part
of a computer, and among the most important hardware parts are input and output
(I/O) devices.
Input devices let you send data to the computer.
Output devices let the computer send information to you.
2. INPUT DEVICES
Input devices are hardware components that allow a user to enter data and
instructions into a computer.
Common Input Devices:
Input Device Function
Mouse Used to point, click, drag, and drop items on
the screen.
Keyboard Used to type text, numbers, and commands
into the computer.
Scanner Converts physical documents or images
into digital format.
Sensors Detect physical conditions and convert
them into digital signals.
3. OUTPUT DEVICES
Output devices allow the computer to communicate information to the user or
another device.
Common Output Devices:
Output Device Function
Monitor Displays text, images, and videos.
Printer Produces hard copies of documents and
images.
Speakers Produce sound output from the computer.
4. SPECIALIZED INPUT/OUTPUT DEVICES
Some devices can function as both input and output, or are designed for people with
special needs.
Device Type Function
Touchscreen Input & Output Used in smartphones, ATMs,
tablets.
Braille Keyboard Input For visually impaired users.
Braille Display Output Converts screen text to
Braille.
Graphics Tablet Input Used for drawing by artists.
Webcam Input Captures live video.
Projector Output Projects computer screen
onto walls.
Smart Board Input & Output Used in schools for
interactive learning.
5. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES
Input Devices Output Devices
Send data to the computer Receive information from the computer
Examples: Keyboard, Mouse Examples: Monitor, Printer
User → Computer Computer → User
6. SUMMARY
• Input devices are used to enter data into the computer.
• Output devices are used to display or produce the result.
• Some specialized devices can function as both input and output.
• I/O devices are essential in homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses.
7. REVISION QUESTIONS
1. Define an input device.
2. List any four output devices.
3. What is the function of a scanner?
4. Differentiate between a mouse and a printer.
5. Mention two devices that can be used by a visually impaired person.
6. State two uses of a touchscreen.
7. What type of device is a graphics tablet and who commonly uses it?
8. Explain how a sensor works in a security system.
