3.2.2 | OUTPUT DEVICES

Topics from the Cambridge IGCSE (9-1) Computer Science 0984 syllabus 2023 - 2025.

OBJECTIVES
​Understand what is meant by an output device and why it is required
​Including:

• actuator
• digital light processing (DLP) projector
• inkjet printer
• laser printer
• light emitting diode (LED) screen
• liquid crystal display (LCD) projector
• liquid crystal display (LCD) screen
• speaker
• 3D printer

ALSO IN THIS TOPIC
3.1.1 COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE 
3.1.2 COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE 
​3.1.3 COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE 
​3.1.4 COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE 
3.1.5 COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE 
​3.2.1 INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES 
YOU ARE HERE | ​3.2.2 INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES 
3.2.3 INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES
3.3 DATA STORAGE 
3.4 NETWORK HARDWARE 
REVISION CARDS
TOPIC 3 KEY TERMINOLOGY
TOPIC 3 ANSWERS
TOPIC 3 TEACHER RESOURCES
TOPIC 1 TEACHER RESOURCES (CIE)

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3.2.2 INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES

An output device is a piece of hardware that is used to transfer data from a computer or other electronic device to the user or another device. This can include sending visual, auditory, or tactile information to the user. Output devices are required to allow the user to receive and interpret information from the computer or device.​

Actuator: An actuator is a mechanical device that converts energy into motion. It can be used as an output device in robotics, automation systems, and other applications where mechanical movement is needed.

Digital light processing (DLP) projector: A DLP projector uses a digital micro-mirror device to project an image onto a screen. It is commonly used in presentations, movies, and other applications where a large image is needed.

Inkjet printer: An inkjet printer uses small droplets of ink to print text and images onto paper. It is a common type of printer for home and office use.

Laser printer: A laser printer uses a laser beam to heat a photoconductive drum, which then attracts toner particles onto the paper to create text and images. It is a common type of printer for high-volume printing in offices.

Light-emitting diode (LED) screen: An LED screen uses an array of light-emitting diodes to display images and video. It is commonly used in billboards, televisions, and other large-scale display applications.

Liquid crystal display (LCD) projector: An LCD projector uses liquid crystal to modulate the light and project an image onto a screen. It is commonly used in presentations, home theater systems, and other applications where a large image is needed.

Liquid crystal display (LCD) screen: An LCD screen uses liquid crystals to modulate the light and display images. It is commonly used in laptops, smartphones, and other portable electronic devices.
Speaker: A speaker is a device that converts electrical signals into sound waves. It is used to play audio from a computer or other electronic device.

3D printer: A 3D printer is a device that creates physical objects by laying down successive layers of material. It is used in manufacturing, prototyping, and other applications where physical models are needed.

Feature/Aspect	Capacitive Touch Screen	Resistive Touch Screen	Infrared Touch Screen
PROS	-	-	-
Sensitivity	High sensitivity to light touch	Requires more pressure	Medium; touch not always needed
Multi-touch Capability	Multi-touch gestures supported	Typically only single-touch	​Supports multi-touch
Clarity	Clear display	Slightly less clarity	​No overlays enhance clarity
Durability	Dust and water resistant	Highly durable	Resistant, no direct touch needed
Cost	Higher cost	Cost-effective	Varies, often higher
Usability with Gloves	Not glove-friendly	Glove-friendly	Works with gloves
CONS	-	-	-
Cost	More expensive, especially larger	More affordable, especially small	​Can be costly, complex
Complexity	​Simple use and operation	Simple use and operation	Complex setup
Response Time	Fast response	Moderate response	Moderate to fast response
Durability against Harsh Use	Less damage resistant	High tolerance to rough use	​Resilient but external interference possible
Precision	High precision	Less precise	Good precision but sensitive to light
External Light Interference	Low interference from light	Not affected by light	​High sensitivity to light

ALSO IN THIS TOPIC

3.1.1 COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE | The role of the CPU
3.1.2 COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE | Components of the CPU
3.1.3 COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE | Core's, Cache and Clock speed
3.1.4 COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE(CIE) | The Instruction Set
3.1.5 COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE | Embedded Systems
3.2.1 INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES | Input Devices
3.2.2 INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES | Output Devices
3.2.3 INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES | Sensors
3.3 DATA STORAGE | Primary, Secondary, Virtual and Cloud storage
3.4 NETWORK HARDWARE | Networks, Components and Protocols
REVISION CARDS | Flip cards to help test yourself
TOPIC 3 KEY TERMINOLOGY
TOPIC 3 ANSWERS
TOPIC 3 TEACHER RESOURCES