CHAPTER 3.

2: INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES

1. Input Devices
o Definition: Understand what an input device is and why it is required.
o Examples of Input Devices:
▪ Barcode Scanner
▪ Digital Camera
▪ Keyboard
▪ Microphone
▪ Optical Mouse
▪ QR Code Scanner
▪ Touch Screen:
▪ Resistive
▪ Capacitive
▪ Infra-red
▪ 2D Scanners
▪ 3D Scanners
2. Output Devices
o Definition: Understand what an output device is and why it is required.
o Examples of Output Devices:
▪ 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
3. Sensors
o What is a Sensor?
▪ Definition: Understand what is meant by a sensor and its purposes.
o Types of Sensors and Their Purposes:
▪ Acoustic
▪ Accelerometer
▪ Flow
▪ Gas
▪ Humidity
▪ Infra-red
▪ Level
▪ Light
▪ Magnetic Field
▪ Moisture
▪ pH

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 ▪ Pressure
▪ Proximity
▪ Temperature
o Applications of Sensors:
▪ Identify the type of data captured by each sensor.
▪ Understand when and why each sensor is used.
▪ Select the most suitable sensor for specific contexts.

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 3.2.1 INPUT DEVICES – PART 1
What is an Input Device?

An input device is hardware that allows us to send data and instructions to a computer. It captures information
from the real world, such as text, images, sounds, or actions, and converts it into a format the computer can
process. Without input devices, it would be impossible for humans to interact with computers effectively.

Why are Input Devices Important?

• They allow us to provide instructions to a computer.

• They enable us to input data such as text, images, and sounds.

• They make computers interactive and easier to use.

Examples of Input Devices

1. Barcode Scanner
A barcode scanner reads and interprets barcodes, which are patterns of black and white lines that store
information (e.g., product codes).

• How It Works:

o A light source shines on the barcode.

o The scanner detects the reflected light.

o It converts the light and dark lines into digital data that the computer understands.

• Uses:

o In supermarkets to scan product prices.

o In libraries to manage books.

o In warehouses for inventory tracking.

2. Digital Camera
A digital camera captures images and videos in a digital format, which can be stored and processed by a
computer.

• How It Works:

o Light enters through the lens.

o The camera sensor converts light into electrical signals.

o The signals are processed into digital images.

• Uses:

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 o Taking photos for personal or professional purposes.

o Used in security systems for surveillance.

o In scientific fields for recording experiments.

3. Keyboard
A keyboard is one of the most common input devices. It allows users to enter text, numbers, and commands into a
computer.

• How It Works:

o Each keypress sends an electrical signal to the computer.

o The computer processes the signal and displays the corresponding character or action.

• Uses:

o Writing documents or emails.

o Entering commands into software.

o Playing games or controlling software.

4. Microphone
A microphone captures sound and converts it into digital data that can be processed by the computer.

• How It Works:

o The microphone detects sound vibrations.

o These vibrations are converted into electrical signals.

o The computer processes the signals into audio files.

• Uses:

o Recording voice or music.

o Video calls and voice chats.

o Controlling devices using voice commands (e.g., virtual assistants like Siri or Alexa).

5. Optical Mouse
An optical mouse is a device used to point, click, and interact with items on the computer screen.

• How It Works:

o A small light underneath the mouse detects movement.

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 o The movement is translated into cursor movement on the screen.

o Buttons on the mouse send commands to the computer when clicked.

• Uses:

o Navigating through computer programs.

o Selecting and interacting with files.

o Playing games that require precision and control.

6. QR Code Scanner
A QR Code Scanner reads QR codes, which are square patterns that store information like URLs, contact details,
or payment information.

• How It Works:

o The scanner uses a camera to capture the QR code.

o The image is processed, and the data is extracted.

o The extracted data, such as a website link, is displayed or executed.

• Uses:

o Scanning QR codes for payments.

o Viewing product information or promotional offers.

o Authentication for logging into accounts.

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 3.2.1 INPUT DEVICES – PART 2
Touch Screens
A touch screen is a device that combines both input and output functions. It allows users to interact directly with
what is displayed on the screen by touching it. Touch screens are commonly found in devices like smartphones,
tablets, ATMs, and information kiosks.

Types of Touch Screens:

1. Resistive Touch Screen

o How It Works:

▪ Made up of two thin layers separated by a gap.

▪ When the screen is touched, the two layers press together at the point of contact.

▪ The system detects the exact position of the touch and processes the input.

o Advantages:

▪ Works with any object (e.g., finger, stylus, gloves).

▪ Durable in harsh environments.

o Disadvantages:

▪ Less sensitive and does not support multitouch gestures.

o Common Uses:

▪ ATMs.

▪ Industrial controls.

2. Capacitive Touch Screen

o How It Works:

▪ Uses a layer of electrically charged material.

▪ When a conductive object (like a finger) touches the screen, it disturbs the electrical field.

▪ The touch position is detected and processed.

o Advantages:

▪ Very sensitive and responsive.

▪ Supports multitouch gestures (e.g., pinch-to-zoom).

o Disadvantages:

▪ Does not work with non-conductive materials like gloves.

o Common Uses:

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 ▪ Smartphones and tablets.

▪ Interactive displays.

3. Infra-red Touch Screen

o How It Works:

▪ Uses a grid of invisible infra-red light beams.

▪ When the screen is touched, the beam is interrupted at that point.

▪ The system identifies the touch location.

o Advantages:

▪ Works with any object (e.g., fingers, stylus).

▪ Highly durable and not affected by scratches or dirt.

o Disadvantages:

▪ Expensive compared to resistive and capacitive touch screens.

o Common Uses:

▪ Interactive whiteboards.

▪ Public kiosks.

2D Scanners
A 2D scanner is a device used to convert physical documents, images, or barcodes into digital data that can be
processed by a computer.

How It Works:

1. The document is placed on the scanner's surface.

2. A light source illuminates the document.

3. Sensors detect the reflected light and create a digital image.

4. The image is processed and saved in a digital format.

Features:

• Optical Character Recognition (OCR):

o Converts scanned text into editable digital text.

• Resolution:

o High resolution allows detailed scans for photographs or detailed graphics.

Common Uses:

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 • Scanning documents for storage.

• Digitizing photographs.

• Scanning barcodes in retail systems.

3D Scanners
A 3D scanner is a device that captures the shape and dimensions of a physical object to create a digital 3D model.

How It Works:

1. The scanner emits light beams or lasers onto the surface of the object.

2. Sensors detect the reflected light and calculate the object's geometry.

3. The scanned data is converted into a digital 3D model.

Features:

• Captures detailed surface textures and dimensions.

• Creates highly accurate digital representations of objects.

Common Uses:

• Engineering and Design:

o Creating prototypes for 3D printing.

• Healthcare:

o Creating custom prosthetics.

• Archaeology:

o Scanning historical artifacts for preservation.

Activity 3.2.1
1. Define an input device and explain why it is required in a computer system. [2]
2. Explain how a barcode scanner works and give two examples of its use. [4]
3. Describe the purpose of a digital camera as an input device and explain how it converts images into digital
format. [3]
4. State the purpose of a microphone and describe how it captures sound and processes it into digital data.
[3]
5. Explain how an optical mouse detects and processes movement. [2]
6. Compare resistive and capacitive touch screens. State one advantage and one disadvantage of each. [4]
7. Describe the role of a QR code scanner and provide one real-world application where it is commonly used.
[3]
8. Explain the process of how a 2D scanner converts a printed document into a digital file. [4]
9. What is a 3D scanner? Describe one situation where it would be more effective than a 2D scanner. [3]
10. List three input devices commonly used in daily life and briefly describe their purposes. [3]

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 3.2.2 OUTPUT DEVICES – PART 1
What is an Output Device?

An output device is hardware that allows a computer to communicate information to the outside world. It takes
the data processed by the computer and presents it in a form that humans can understand, such as text, images,
sound, or physical objects.

Why are Output Devices Important?

• They enable us to see, hear, or feel the results of the computer's processes.

• Without output devices, we wouldn’t know what the computer is doing or if it completed a task.

Examples of Output Devices

1. Actuator
An actuator is an output device that creates physical movement or action. It is commonly used in systems that
need to control physical processes, such as machines or robots.

• How It Works:

o The computer sends a signal to the actuator.

o The actuator converts this signal into movement, such as rotating a motor or moving a robotic arm.

• Uses:

o Automatic doors.

o Robotic arms in factories.

o Moving parts in smart home devices like blinds or fans.

2. Digital Light Processing (DLP) Projector

A DLP projector displays images or videos on a large screen by using tiny mirrors and a light source.

• How It Works:

o A computer sends image data to the projector.

o Tiny mirrors in the projector reflect light to create an image on the screen.

o The image is then magnified and projected for the audience.

• Uses:

o Presentations in classrooms and offices.

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 o Watching movies in home theaters.

o Large public displays.

3. Inkjet Printer
An inkjet printer is a device that creates high-quality printed materials by spraying tiny droplets of ink onto paper.

• How It Works:

o The computer sends a document or image to the printer.

o The printer sprays ink onto the paper in precise patterns to create the output.

• Features:

o Produces high-quality prints.

o Suitable for both color and black-and-white printing.

• Uses:

o Printing school assignments or office documents.

o Printing photos or posters.

4. Laser Printer
A laser printer is another type of printer that uses a laser beam and toner to produce high-speed and high-quality
prints.

• How It Works:

o The computer sends data to the printer.

o A laser beam creates an image on a drum, which attracts toner (powdered ink).

o The toner is transferred onto paper and heated to stick.

• Features:

o Faster than inkjet printers.

o Suitable for large volumes of printing.

• Uses:

o Printing documents in offices.

o Producing flyers and brochures.

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 3.2.2 OUTPUT DEVICES – PART 2
5. Light Emitting Diode (LED) Screen
An LED screen is a flat-panel display that uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to show images or videos.

• How It Works:

o LEDs emit light when an electric current passes through them.

o Each pixel on the screen is made up of small LEDs in red, green, and blue (RGB).

o The computer sends signals to control which LEDs are lit and at what intensity, forming the image.

• Features:

o Bright and clear images.

o Energy-efficient compared to older screens.

• Uses:

o Television screens.

o Computer monitors.

o Digital billboards and advertisements.

6. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Screen

An LCD screen is another flat-panel display that uses liquid crystals to produce images.

• How It Works:

o The screen contains a layer of liquid crystals sandwiched between two sheets of glass.

o When an electric current passes through the crystals, they align to allow light to pass through in
specific patterns, creating images.

o A backlight or LED lights up the display.

• Features:

o Lightweight and slim.

o Commonly used in devices like laptops and phones.

• Uses:

o Mobile phones.

o Laptops and tablets.

o Portable gaming consoles.

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7. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Projector
An LCD projector projects images or videos onto a screen using LCD technology.

• How It Works:

o The projector contains small LCD panels that create the image.

o A powerful light shines through the LCD panels to project the image onto a wall or screen.

• Uses:

o Classrooms and office presentations.

o Watching movies on large screens.

o Public events or conferences.

8. Speaker
A speaker is an output device that converts digital audio signals into sound.

• How It Works:

o The computer sends digital audio data to the speaker.

o The speaker’s components vibrate to create sound waves that we hear.

• Features:

o Can produce sound at varying volumes and pitches.

o Available in a range of sizes, from small headphones to large home theater systems.

• Uses:

o Playing music or movies.

o Giving audio alerts or notifications.

o Online meetings or calls.

9. 3D Printer
A 3D printer is a device that creates physical, three-dimensional objects from digital designs.

• How It Works:

o The computer sends a digital 3D model to the printer.

o The printer builds the object layer by layer using materials like plastic, metal, or resin.

• Features:

o Highly precise and customizable.

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 o Can create complex shapes that traditional methods cannot.

• Uses:

o Manufacturing prototypes.

o Creating parts for machines.

o Designing custom objects like jewelry or tools.

Comparison of Display Devices (LED vs LCD Screens)

Feature LED Screen LCD Screen

Technology Uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Uses liquid crystals with a backlight.

Brightness Brighter than LCDs. Less bright than LEDs.

Energy Efficiency More energy-efficient. Less energy-efficient.

Use Cases TVs, digital billboards. Mobile phones, tablets, monitors.

Activity 3.2.2

1. Define an output device and explain why it is required in a computer system.

2. Explain the purpose of an actuator and describe one example of its use in a real-world application.
3. Compare the working principles of LED and LCD screens. Provide one key difference in their operation.
4. Describe the process by which a DLP projector displays an image on a screen.
5. What are the main advantages of laser printers compared to inkjet printers? Provide two examples where
laser printers are more suitable.
6. Explain how a speaker converts digital audio signals into sound.
7. Describe the role of a 3D printer and explain one situation where it is more effective than traditional
manufacturing methods.
8. State one key feature of each:
a. Inkjet Printer
b. Laser Printer
c. LCD Projector
9. Explain how an LCD projector creates and displays an image on a large screen.
10. Match the following output devices with their uses:
• Speaker: Produces sound for ..........................................
• Actuator: Moves ..........................................
• 3D Printer: Builds ..........................................
• DLP Projector: Displays ..........................................

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 3.2.3 – SENSORS (PART 1)
What is a Sensor?

A sensor is an input device that collects data from the environment. It detects physical changes, such as light,
temperature, pressure, or motion, and sends this information to a computer system to be processed.

Why Are Sensors Important?

Sensors are crucial because they allow computer systems to:

• Monitor and respond to changes in the environment automatically.

• Collect accurate and real-time data.

• Enable automation in various industries, from agriculture to healthcare.

How Do Sensors Work?

1. The sensor detects a physical property (e.g., temperature, light).

2. It converts the physical property into an electrical signal.

3. The signal is sent to a microprocessor or computer for processing.

4. The computer uses the data to make decisions or trigger actions.

Types of Sensors and Their Uses

1. Acoustic Sensor
• What It Detects:

o Sounds or vibrations.

• Common Uses:

o Monitoring machinery for unusual vibrations.

o Detecting glass breaking in security systems.

o Acoustic sensors in medical devices to analyze heart or lung sounds.

2. Accelerometer
• What It Detects:

o Acceleration, movement, and orientation.

• Common Uses:

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 o Smartphones to detect screen rotation.

o Wearable fitness trackers to count steps.

o Airbag deployment systems in cars.

3. Flow Sensor
• What It Detects:

o The flow of liquids or gases.

• Common Uses:

o Monitoring water usage in homes.

o Measuring fuel flow in vehicles.

o Industrial processes to control the flow of chemicals.

4. Gas Sensor
• What It Detects:

o Specific gases in the air, such as carbon monoxide, methane, or oxygen.

• Common Uses:

o Carbon monoxide detectors for home safety.

o Gas leak detection in industrial plants.

o Monitoring air quality in cities.

5. Humidity Sensor
• What It Detects:

o The moisture levels in the air.

• Common Uses:

o Controlling humidity in greenhouses.

o Monitoring environmental conditions in museums or archives.

o Maintaining proper humidity levels in air conditioning systems.

How Sensors Are Used in Systems

Sensors are often combined with microprocessors to create automated systems. For example:
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• In smart homes, temperature sensors control heating systems.

• In automated vehicles, accelerometers help detect sudden stops or crashes.

• In healthcare, gas sensors monitor oxygen levels in hospitals.

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 3.2.3 – SENSORS (PART 2)
In this part of the tutorial, we’ll explore additional types of sensors, their functions, and real-world applications.
Sensors play a crucial role in various industries by automating processes and gathering environmental data.

6. Infrared Sensor
• What It Detects:

o Heat or motion by detecting infrared radiation.

• How It Works:

o Infrared light is emitted or detected by the sensor.

o The sensor measures changes in heat or light patterns.

• Common Uses:

o Motion detectors in security systems.

o Automatic doors in shopping malls.

o Remote controls for TVs or other devices.

7. Magnetic Field Sensor

• What It Detects:

o Magnetic fields or changes in magnetic intensity.

• How It Works:

o The sensor measures the strength and direction of magnetic fields.

• Common Uses:

o Compasses in smartphones and navigation systems.

o Metal detectors for safety or industrial purposes.

o Monitoring electric motors for alignment issues.

8. Moisture Sensor
• What It Detects:

o The moisture content in soil or materials.

• How It Works:

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 o The sensor measures the electrical resistance or dielectric constant, which changes based on
moisture levels.

• Common Uses:

o Controlling irrigation in agriculture.

o Monitoring moisture in building materials during construction.

o Maintaining optimal moisture levels in gardens or indoor plants.

9. Pressure Sensor
• What It Detects:

o Pressure in liquids or gases.

• How It Works:

o The sensor measures the force applied to a specific area and converts it into an electrical signal.

• Common Uses:

o Measuring tire pressure in vehicles.

o Monitoring pressure in pipelines in industries.

o Altimeters in airplanes to measure altitude.

10. Proximity Sensor

• What It Detects:

o The presence or absence of nearby objects without physical contact.

• How It Works:

o It emits a signal (e.g., electromagnetic field or infrared light) and detects any changes caused by a
nearby object.

• Common Uses:

o Smartphones to turn off the screen during a call.

o Automatic faucets in restrooms.

o Parking sensors in cars.

11. Light Sensor

• What It Detects:

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 o The intensity of light in an environment.

• How It Works:

o The sensor measures the amount of light and generates an electrical signal based on its intensity.

• Common Uses:

o Automatic brightness adjustment in smartphones.

o Streetlights that turn on at night.

o Monitoring light levels in greenhouses.

12. pH Sensor
• What It Detects:

o The acidity or alkalinity of a liquid.

• How It Works:

o The sensor measures the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution.

• Common Uses:

o Testing soil quality in agriculture.

o Monitoring water quality in laboratories.

o Ensuring the correct pH levels in swimming pools or aquariums.

Summary of Sensor Applications

Sensors are versatile tools used across many fields:

• Smart Homes: Infrared and proximity sensors for automation and security.

• Healthcare: Gas sensors and pH sensors for patient monitoring.

• Agriculture: Moisture and humidity sensors for irrigation control.

• Transportation: Pressure and accelerometer sensors for vehicle safety.

• Industrial Automation: Magnetic field and flow sensors to monitor machinery.

Conclusion

Sensors are essential components in modern technology. By detecting and processing environmental data, they
make systems smarter, safer, and more efficient. Understanding the types and uses of sensors provides insight
into their critical role in everyday life.

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Activity 3.2.3
1. What is a sensor, and why is it important in a computer system?
2. Explain how an acoustic sensor works and provide one example of its use.
3. Describe the role of an accelerometer in smartphones and wearable fitness devices.
4. Explain the purpose of a gas sensor and give two examples of environments where it is used.
5. Compare the functions of a humidity sensor and a moisture sensor. Provide one example where each
would be used.
6. How does an infrared sensor detect motion, and where is it commonly used?
7. Describe how a pressure sensor works and explain its application in vehicle tire monitoring systems.
8. What is the function of a magnetic field sensor, and how is it used in a smartphone compass?
9. Define a pH sensor and explain its importance in monitoring water quality in laboratories.
10. List three types of sensors used in a greenhouse system and briefly describe how each contributes to plant
growth.

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