Output Devices

Output Devices

1. Audio/Visual

   • CRT Monitor
     • Box monitor that displays texts and images: very heavy take up a lot of space
   • Flat screen monitor
     • Have replaced CRT monitors because they are light in weight. They are much more expensive.
   • Digital/Multimedia Projector
     • Image is produced inside the device and then projected out through a large lense: very large viewing area needed as well they are very expensive.
   • Loudspeaker
     • Used to hear music and sounds. You will have to attach loudspeakers. They convert electrical signals into sound waves. They are very large and take up extra space.

2. Printing/Plotting

   • Dot Matrix Printer
     • Makes a pattern of dots that created letters/images. Printout can be torn from the long strip. Quality of the print is very poor.
   • Inkjet Printer
     • Cheap, high quality, full colour. They became available during the 1980's. Though the ink is very expensive.
     • Laser Printer
       • Very complex: using a laser prints very quickly. Very expensive to buy.
   • Plotter
     • Draw on paper with a pen. They cannot produce text and images like a printer though.

3. Control Acutators

   • Motor
     • Can provide movements; not all use computer motors.
   • Pumps
     • A motor to a device that can push water or air along pipes; pumps are only used for watering and in factories.
   • Buzzer
     • Can provide sound. Used for microwaves and louder,a siren. Sometimes not heard and can also be annoying.
   • Lights
     • Used to provide light. Light bulbs must be changed every now and then though.