IGCSE ICT Lesson: Peripheral Devices

Introduction

• This lesson focuses on Edexcel IGCSE ICT Unit 1 - Digital Devices, Lesson 2.
• Covers input peripheral devices; next lesson will cover output devices.
• First lesson on digital device types is available on the channel.
• Practice questions are provided at the end of the lesson.

Peripheral Devices

• Definition: Devices that connect to a computer to enhance its capabilities but do not perform the primary function of computing.
• Categories:
  1. Input Devices
  2. Output Devices
  3. Storage Devices

Input Devices

• Definition: Hardware used to provide data and instructions to computers.
• Examples:
  • Keyboard: For entering data (text/commands); connects via USB, Bluetooth; ergonomic designs to reduce strain.
  • Pointing Devices: Mouse, trackpad, stylus, joystick, trackball.
    • Mouse: Controls cursor movement; wired or wireless; types include mechanical, optical, wireless.
    • Joystick: Controls movement in games, simulators; connects via USB, Bluetooth.
  • Microphone: Converts sound to electrical signal; used in recording, broadcasting, etc.
  • Barcode Readers: Decodes barcodes; connects via USB or Bluetooth.
  • Scanners: Converts physical documents to digital format; connects via USB, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi.
  • Webcams: Captures video/audio; used in video chats, conferencing.
  • Graphic Tablets: For drawing/sketching; connects via USB or wireless.
  • Biometric Scanners: Fingerprint, facial recognition, Iris scanners for authentication.
  • Chip and Pin Devices: For secure payment transactions using cards.
  • Sensors: Detect physical properties; types include optical, pressure, temperature sensors.

Practice Questions

• Question on smartphone sensors: Used to detect device movement, switch to landscape/portrait.
• MCQs on input devices like graphic tablets, and sensors for controlling humidity.
• Discussion on game consoles as both input and output devices.

Conclusion

• This lesson focused on input peripheral devices; knowledge of these devices is crucial for understanding computer interactions.
• Encouragement to review past papers for better understanding.
• Next lesson will cover output peripheral devices.