Module 1.2: Output Devices

Types of Output Devices

• Visual Output
  • Soft Copy
  • Hard Copy
• Sound Output
• Touch Output
• Other Outputs

Display Devices

• Benefits
  • Immediate feedback
  • Interaction between user and computer
  • Easily changeable/updated content
  • Enlarged text for visually impaired users
• Drawbacks
  • Not permanent
  • Difficult to share (unless large monitor or data projector)
  • Can cause eye strain
  • Lack of privacy
  • High replacement cost for expensive monitors

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Display Device

• Resolution
  • Number of pixels (horizontal x vertical)
  • Higher resolution = better picture quality
• Aspect Ratio
  • Width of display in relation to height
  • Common formats: widescreen, letterbox
• Contrast Ratio
  • Ratio of brightest color to darkest color
• Response Time
  • Time for a pixel to change (measured in milliseconds)
• Ports
  • HDMI (video and audio)
  • VGA (video only)

Printers

• Types
  • Color Laser Printers
    • More reliable, easier to maintain
    • Better for black and white, bulk printing
    • Higher initial cost but cheaper long-term
  • Inkjet Printers
    • Cheaper initial cost
    • Better for photo quality
    • Higher long-term cost
  • 3D Printers
    • Create physical 3D objects using modeling software
    • Features: filament, print head, bolt plate
  • Advantages & Disadvantages
    • Faster production, cost-effective, quality control, unlimited design
    • High electricity use, high purchase cost, special material required, potential for misuse

Wireless Technology in Output Devices

• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC
• Enables wireless printing, video, sound

Interactive Whiteboards

• Advantages
  • Write on the board and save notes
  • Better interaction and participation
  • Use various multimedia formats
• Disadvantages
  • Requires dim lighting
  • May be difficult to read and use
  • High cost and maintenance
  • Teachers’ reluctance to adopt new technology

Drivers

• Definition: Software that allows a computer to communicate with hardware devices
• Plug and Play
  • Automatically detects and configures devices

Input and Output for Physically Challenged Users

• Visually Impaired
  • Braille Keyboard and Display
  • Magnification Devices
  • Large Key Keyboards
  • Braille Printers
• Hearing Impaired
  • On-screen notices, flashing screens
  • Vibration devices
  • Increased volume for hearing impaired (not for deaf)
• Motor Control
  • Eye tracking, head movement devices
  • Large keyboards, track balls, joysticks
  • Examples: Puff-suck switch, foot mouse

Health Issues Related to Input and Output Devices

• Poor posture and prolonged usage can cause:
  • Sore neck, backache, headaches, repetitive strain injury (RSI)
• Suggestions
  • Sit with proper back support
  • Use height-adjustable desks
  • Take breaks and move around
  • Avoid high headphone volume
  • Adjust monitor settings to reduce eye strain