Choosing Computer Devices and Their Types

DEVICE

a tool with a specific use.

INPUT

any data the computer gets from us.

OUTPUT

any data a computer shows or produces after getting an input.

CPU

the central processing unit that performs calculations and tasks for the computer.

RAM

random access memory that temporarily stores data for quick access.

GPU

graphics processing unit that renders images and video.

MOUSE

used to click and point to things on a computer screen.

WIRED MOUSE

connects to a computer with a wire; cheap and fast but must be connected to the computer all the time.

WIRELESS MOUSE

without a wire and needs batteries to work; more expensive than wired but convenient for travelling.

MECHANICAL MOUSE

an old mouse model with a metal or rubber ball on the bottom used to move the pointer on the screen.

OPTICAL MOUSE

has a light source at the bottom used to move the pointer instead of a metal or rubber ball.

TRACKBALL

has a ball on top that we can roll with our thumb or fingers to move the mouse pointer.

KEYBOARD

used to enter text and perform command shortcuts on a computer.

MECHANICAL KEYBOARD

most common model that makes loud clicking sounds when we press the keys.

MEMBRANE KEYBOARD

quieter, cheaper, and lighter than mechanical keyboards but harder to clean.

ERGONOMIC KEYBOARD

a v-shaped keyboard used for comfort; lessens wrist pain when typing for long hours.

FLEXIBLE KEYBOARD

that can be folded and rolled for convenience.

HANDHELD KEYBOARD

more advanced keyboards; portable and easy to carry around.

PROJECTION KEYBOARD

projects a virtual image of a keyboard on any surface.

MICROPHONE

used to record audio and make calls to our friends and family.

HEADSET

a headphone with a microphone attached to it; used mostly for calls.

DESK-MOUNTED MICROPHONE

a microphone that can be placed on a desk or any surface; useful for better voice recording quality.

CAMERA

can be used for recording videos and showing live videos.

SCANNER

scans documents and photos to be saved on a computer.

MONITOR

the output device where we usually see data displayed.

INKJET PRINTER

most common type of printer that can print great photos.

LASER PRINTER

uses light to print documents and images at a fast speed.

SPEAKER

plays audio out loud.

HEADPHONES

small speakers that we can wear over our ears to hear computer audio in private.

PROJECTOR

shows virtual images on a surface like a blackboard or a wall.

3D PRINTER

a modern type of printer used to make 3D objects with a computer model.