We explain what an output device is in computing and what it is used for. Also, examples of this type of devices and the differences with input devices.
What are output devices?
In computing, those devices that allow the extraction or recovery of information coming from a computer or computer system. For example: the monitor, the speakers or the printer.
The output devices are also called output peripherals and translate the information from a computer into visual, sound, printed or any other formats that can be understood by the user.
There are different output devices that vary according to their function and the type of information they process. They differ from input devices, which are those peripherals that allow information to be entered into the system, for example: the mouse or keyboard. Both types of devices are essential for the user to use the computer.
In some cases, output devices are input/output devices, because in addition to extracting information, they can input it. These devices are called “mixed” and some examples are multifunction printers and touch monitors.
See also: Input devices
Characteristics of output devices
Some characteristics of output devices are:
- They are part of the computer hardware.
- They reproduce or replicate the information coming from the computer, in formats such as audio, image, text and graphics.
- They are essential for the user to be able to use the computer.
- They connect to the computer wirelessly or via a cable (in the case of laptops, many of the output devices are built-in).
- They are easy to use by the user and are updated according to technological developments.
Examples of output devices
Some examples of output devices are:
- Monitor. It is an output device that converts the system's digital signals into visual information, so that it can be perceived and understood by the user. There are different types of monitors, which vary according to their size or visual quality. Touch screen monitors are an example of an input/output device, because they display information to the user on a screen that can be pressed to execute actions.
- Printer. It is a device that converts the digital content of the computer into a printed and tangible document. Prints are generally made on paper using inkjet or laser systems.
- Talking. It is a device that extracts information from the system and translates it into sound signals that can be captured by users.
- Headphones. They are devices that reproduce the sound that comes from the computer, which can be any type of audio file. They are small peripherals (they are placed in the user's ear) that connect to the computer wirelessly or through a cable.
- Video Beams or projectors. They are devices that receive information from the computer system and represent it graphically (similar to monitors). Instead of beaming onto a screen, projectors project information as beams of light and onto larger surfaces, such as walls.
Input and input/output devices
Output devices are, along with input devices, the peripherals that allow interaction between the computer and the external medium. While output devices allow information to be output, Input devices are those that allow information to be entered and data to the system.
Peripherals of this type translate user information into data understandable by the computer. Some examples of input devices are: keyboard, microphone, and mouse.
Additionally, there are a few devices that They can function as both input and output devices (because they receive and send information). Such is the case of modems, multifunction printers and touch monitors.
References
- “Computer peripheral device” in Access Science.
- “Input devices, processing and output devices” on BBC.
- “Output device” in Techopedia.
