Let us start by going through the output device definition to learn about the output devices of computers. A computer’s output device refers to any hardware that sends data from a computer to another user or device. In short, the output devices of the computer give out the result of the entered input. We can also understand the output devices of the computers in such a way that the output devices are the devices that receive the data from the computer and then transform the data into a user-friendly form and send the converted data to the user so that they can see what the output given by the computer is.
Why Do We Need the Output Devices?
The computers can also work without the output devices, but we need output devices to see the work done by the computers. There is not much difference between the output device and the computer’s input device.
One of the significant differences between them is that the input devices carry the data from the computer users to the computers. The output devices give out the results of the entered input or data given by the input devices to the computer.
Let us settle the matter with an example: whenever you type something with your keyboard, whatever is visible on your computer or laptop will be visible from the monitor. Here, the monitor is an example of the output device, and the keyboard is an example of the input device.
Output Devices vs Input Devices:
There are many differences between output and input devices. These can be attributed to the functions and mode of handling. Some of the most critical points of difference are as follows –
Parameters of Comparison | Output Devices | Input Devices |
Data Acception | Output devices accept the data from the computer and give out the results of the entered input to the users. | Input devices get the data from users and send it to the computer. |
Control | Controlled by the computers. | Controlled by the users. |
Transformation | Transforms the machine-friendly outputs into user-friendly information. | Transforms the user-friendly input to computer-friendly input. |
Output Devices and Input Devices | Monitors, printers, speakers, headphones, projector, plotter, and GPS. | Mouse, scanner, keyboard, stylus, joystick, mic, trackball, etc. |
Major Types/ List of Output Devices
The list of Output devices includes
1. Monitor
The significant output device of any computer is its monitor. The monitor is often known as the Visual Display Unit (VDU). The computers’ monitor displays the data that is ultimately prepared by the computer, such as audio, videos, images, and many more. In a rectangular pattern, the monitors form images by arranging microscopic dots, often known as Pixels. The sharpness of the image determines the number of pixels that we have.
A lot of alternatives are available, thanks to LED and LCD technology. The monitors are also becoming slimmer day by day. At times, people also project the monitor screen with the help of a projector. Typically, there are two significant types of Monitor screens-
- A flat Panel Screen Monitor
- Cathode Ray Tube Monitor (CRT)
2. The printer
Printer is a widely used output device to print pictures and texts. A printer is a hardware device that provides computer-processed data in the form of every copy to computer users. A printer is an efficient output device that allows users to get their digital content in hard copy. The various formats include landscape and portrait. In addition, the graphics can be printed in coloured mode or black and white mode by selecting the desired options.
Types of printers
Technology advancements have led to newer kinds of printers. The latest ones do not even require wires for conduction and can print with the help of Bluetooth devices. The portability is also increased to a considerable extent. Meanwhile, the two broad categories of printers used in daily life are as follows –
- Impact Printer
- Non-impact Printer
3. Speakers
are used for converting sound into an output. The speakers are connected to the computer. Sound cards are used for the working of the speakers. These also help in amplifying the audio produced by the computer. Even if a person has low-quality computer audio, the attached speaker can surely give better results. Other uses of the speaker include enjoying the game tunes while playing on the computer or listening to music.
Conclusion
We have now seen and understood the output devices from every aspect. From the output device definition to the list of output devices. We have also understood how the output devices give out the results of entered inputs. Output devices connected to your computers are not ordinary devices, but they play a crucial role in getting your work done on electronic machines like computers. They serve as an interface between humans and computers. There are several components that can be attached to enhance the usage. It is essential to recheck all the connections before using the output devices. They have proved to be a boon for the human race.