Overview
This lecture covers common ICT output and storage devices, including their uses, advantages, limitations, and basic troubleshooting methods, along with guidance for device selection.
Output Devices: Monitors, Speakers, and Printers
- Output devices display or present the results of computer processing.
- Monitor selection factors include resolution, aspect ratio, color depth, pixel density, refresh rate, and contrast ratio.
- Common monitor issues include color problems, pixelation, tinted display, and no image; check cables, settings, and connections.
- Speakers and headphones output audio; sound quality depends on device quality, and volume may disturb others.
- Troubleshooting audio devices involves checking connections, power, correct output device, and sound settings.
- Printers (laser and inkjet) are used for producing physical documents; each has specific strengths and weaknesses.
- Printer troubleshooting includes verifying power, connections, selected printer, installed drivers, paper jams, and ink or toner level.
Output and Storage Device Technical Concepts
- Printer resolution is measured in dots per inch (DPI); higher DPI means clearer images.
- Monitors use RGB (red, green, blue) to create colors; combining all makes white.
- Printers use CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black); combining all makes black, limiting color reproduction compared to monitors.
3D Printing and Data Projectors
- 3D printers create physical objects from digital designs; useful for prototypes and custom parts but can be expensive and slow.
- Data projectors display computer output to large groups; may have limits in brightness, resolution, and contrast.
- Data projector issues often involve bulb failure or special driver requirements.
Storage Devices: HDDs, SSDs, and Optical Media
- Traditional hard drives (HDDs) have moving parts, are slower, and fragile compared to newer storage options.
- Solid state drives (SSDs) are electronic, faster, more efficient, but cost more per gigabyte.
- M.2 SSDs are small, fast drives that connect directly to the motherboard.
- External hard drives and flash drives provide portable storage; flash drives are cheaper per unit but can have lower capacity.
- Optical media (CDs/DVDs) are mostly outdated, have low capacity, and are easily damaged.
Selecting Storage and Communication Devices
- Device choice depends on intended use; high storage needs for gaming, media editing, or large collections.
- Most modern laptops have SSDs for speed; optical drives are rarely needed now.
- Cellular modems, ADSL, and fiber routers provide internet access; each has different requirements and limitations (portability, physical cables).
Key Terms & Definitions
- Resolution — Number of pixels displayed on a screen.
- Aspect Ratio — The width-to-height ratio of a display.
- DPI (Dots Per Inch) — Printer resolution measurement.
- RGB (Red, Green, Blue) — Color model for screens.
- CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) — Color model for printers.
- HDD (Hard Disk Drive) — Traditional storage device with moving parts.
- SSD (Solid State Drive) — Faster storage device with no moving parts.
- M.2 Drive — Compact SSD connecting directly to the motherboard.
- ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) — Internet via landline phone.
- Fiber Router — Internet via high-speed fiber optic cable.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review device specifications when choosing output or storage hardware.
- Practice troubleshooting output and storage device issues as discussed.
- Be prepared to compare types and features of devices on assessments.