UNIT 2: Input and
Output Devices
Introduction
● Input and Output Devices are these
components that are the essential
bridges between the human user and the Functions of Input Devices
electronic circuits of the computer.
● Consider the simple act of typing a 1. Accept data from the outside world.
document, playing a game, or even just 2. Convert data into computer coded
browsing the internet. information.
● This chapter will delve into the diverse 3. Supply data to the Central Processing
array of devices that facilitate this Unit ( CPU ) for further processing.
crucial interaction. We will explore how
different input devices allow us to feed “ No computer is an Island. “
data and instructions into the computer.
● Subsequently, we will examine the Classification of Input Devices
various output devices that enable the
computer to present its processed
information back to us, whether through
visual displays, printed pages or audio.
Input Devices
● Input Devices are devices which are
used to enter data in the computer
system.
● Keyboard, mouse, scanner, “ Why are the letters not in
microphones. alphabetical order? to prevent
typewriters from jamming. “
Standard Input Keyboard
● Most commonly used input device
● Similar to typewriter which used to
enter data in the computer
● Consists of alphabets, number, and
special signs
Functions of General Purpose
Two types of keyboards: Keyboard
1. General Purpose Keyboard 1. Alphanumeric Keypad
● Standard keyboards which are used in ● Right most part of the keyboard
personal computers. ● Contains numbers and mathematical
● Contains enough keys which are used in signs
all types of applications. ● Mainly used for fast data entry in
● Usually contains 101 keys. mathematical applications
2. Special Purpose Keyboard
● Used for special purpose applications
which require faster data entry and rapid 2. Arrow Keys
interaction with the computer system. ● Cursor keys which are often referred to
● Best example: ATM’s and Calculator as “ cursor-control” or
“cursor-movement” keys.
General Purpose Keyboard
contains the ff:
3. Function keys
● Used to generate shortcuts in different
1. Alphanumeric keypad
software package
2. Centered part of the keyboard
● F1-F12 are usually referred to as
3. Contains special signs such as *, !, @, #,
function keys
$, %, etc.
“ Not all keyboards are even, especially laptops
and online shop keyboards. ”
4. Special Keys
● Used for some specific task that
describes unique functions.
● TAB, ENTER, SPACE, BACKSPACE,
DELETE, HOME, END, PAGEUP,
PAGEDOWN, PRINT SCREEN,
INSERT, ESC, ALT, CTRL,
NUMLOCK, CAPSLOCK
“ The purpose is to bring special characters. It
also has specific functions. “
