Computer Output Devices

OUTPUT DEVICES

Computer output device is a device that releases the processed data from the computer to either the user or any of the storage devices. There are many devices that produce data in different forms such as audio, Visual and hard copy. Computer output devices are type of peripheral devices connected to a computer, using cables or a wireless network.

TYPES OF OUTPUT DEVICE

Ø  Printer

Ø  Speaker

Ø  Headphones

Ø  Monitor

The Monitor

Monitor is an output device. Monitor is also known as screen, Visual Display Unit, Cathode Ray tube (CRT) or console. A monitor looks like TV screen and it is used for viewing the result of the operation going on. This is the major function of the monitor in the computer system.

Data entered into the system is visible on the screen. Although, the data appears on the screen directly, the real fact is that data is sent directly into the system unit which invariably displays the data. What is being displayed is called softcopy. Monitors come in different sizes such as the 12” 13” 16” 21” e.t.c.

External features of the Monitor

1. Cathode Ray Tube (CRT): This is the tube that house the console
2. Power Button: Power Toggle is a toggle button used in turning the Monitor on and off
3. Adjustment Control: This Contains features such as brightness, Contrast, Colour, e.t.c
4. Power Cable: It is used to supply electric Power to the monitor.
5. Signal Cable: It is used to transfer electronic signals from the computer through the VGA into the monitor.

USES OF THE MONITOR

1. It allows the operator to carry out visual check on what he or she has keyed in
2. It helps operator to input data by producing forms on the screen for filling
3. It gives messages to the operator.

TYPES OF MONITOR

There are two types of monitor, which are the monochrome and colour/ polychrome monitor.

The MONOCHROME monitor displays only one colour. Monochrome cannot be used for windows application.

The COLOUR monitor can show graphics and texts with several colours.

The different types of colour monitor include;

1. Colour Graphics Adapter (CGA)
2. Enhanced Graphic Adapter (EGA)
3. Video Graphic Adapter (VGA)
4. Super Video Graphic Adapter (SVGA)
5. Enhanced Video Graphic Adapter (EVGA)

Cathode Ray tube: The most common type of monitor for the office and home is the Cathode Ray Tube. This may be due to their low cost and precision.

Flat Panel Monitors: They are commonly used by laptops, Notebooks, palmtops and flat screen Monitors common referred to as LCDS. They are less bulky.

ASSESSMENT

Assessment

1. Define Input device

2. Give examples of input device

Assignment

Make a research online about features of mouse and keyboard