Output Devices of Computer

Last updated on September 27, 2024

A computer is an electronic device that is used to store, display and manipulate data given by the user. A computer can only work when all its components – input unit, output unit, storage unit, and processing unit work together in sync. Here we will talk about the output unit and its devices.

What is an Output Device?

The output devices are used to convert the computer produced output into human-readable form. The output device takes information from the computer and presents it in the form of projection, display, or on paper.

Functions of Output Devices

Output devices have one main job: helping us experience the information a computer processes. Whether it’s showing a picture, playing a song, or printing a document, they translate digital data into something we can see, hear, or touch.

For example, monitors let us view images and videos, printers turn digital documents into physical copies, and speakers play audio. These devices make it possible for us to interact with a computer’s output, so without them, all that data would just stay on the machine, invisible and unusable to us.

Uses of Output Devices

Output devices are incredibly useful because they let us interact with the information a computer processes. Think about your monitor—it lets you watch movies, browse the web, or work on documents. Then there are printers, which are perfect for making hard copies of digital files like reports or pictures.

If you want to listen to music or a podcast, you rely on speakers or headphones. Projectors are also super handy, especially in schools or offices, allowing you to present ideas to a large group. Finally, in specialized areas like healthcare, output devices show crucial data, helping doctors monitor patient stats in real time.

Difference between Input and Output Devices

Input devices – The computer input devices convert the data entered by the user into binary language and send it to the computer to process it. For example, keyboards, mice, scanners, etc.

Output devices – The output devices are peripheral devices that are used to convert the output processed by the computer into human-readable form. These devices either display the output on the screen, print on paper, or through any other form. Examples: printer, monitor, projector, headphones, etc.

Examples of Output Devices of Computer

Let us look at some of the output devices one by one.

Monitor

The monitor is an output device that displays the output in the form of images on a digital screen. The images formed are made up of millions of tiny dots called pixels. The more pixels, the better resolution of the image is.

Earlier monitors had screens made of CRT, but are now replaced by flat panel displays. Let us understand how both are different from each other-

CRT – The CRT or cathode ray tube is the structure behind the screen. That helps to display characters and images on the monitor. the display side consists of a phosphorescent screen. The screen lights up when a beam of electrons hits the screen from the cathode filament. The electrons are deflected and accelerated and that is how the images are formed on the screen.

However, the CRT based monitors have their disadvantages, which include-

They require a large space due to the presence of a vacuum tube of the CRT.
They consume high power because of the heating of the cathode filament to release electrons.
Due to these drawbacks, flat panel displays came into the picture.

Flat-panel display – The flat panel displays are much lighter, thinner, and consume less power than the traditional CRT monitors. They are wearable like digital wristwatches and portable like laptops or calculators. This gave the flat panel displays an upper hand over CRTs. They broadly divided into-

Emissive Display – The LEDs and plasma panel displays are a few examples of emissive displays, as in these the electrical energy gets converted into light energy.
Non-emissive Display: the LCDs are non-emissive displays, as optical effects are used to convert light sources like sunlight to images.

Printers

Printers are another peripheral device used as output devices. The output from the computer is achieved on paper from the printer. The data gets printed on paper which can be both colored or black and white, an image, text, or even both.

The printer can be majorly divided into two types-

Impact printers – These printers work by having direct contact with the ink ribbon and paper. Due to this, the noise produced by these printers resembles that of a typewriter.
Non-Impact printers – These printers work with technologies like inkjet, laser, electrostatic, xerographic, etc. These printers work silently and are much faster than the impact ones.

Headphone

The audio or sound produced by the computer is in the form of electric signals. These are perceived by us in the form of sound using the output device, headphones. The headphones are transducers that convert electrical energy into mechanical energy and thus help us listen to songs and recordings on the computer. The best thing is that they are light and thus portable, unlike heavy computer speakers.

Computer Speaker

Computer speakers are output device that works the same way as a headphone. They make our entertainment experience easier. We can watch movies, listen to music, recordings, or any audio with help of speakers. They can be used instead of headphones when multiple people want to listen to the audio.

Projector

The projector is an output device, that is used to project the image displayed on the computer monitor on a large wall or screen. This is a good option when the output is to be shown to a large number of people. It can be used to watch movies with friends, or show a presentation in a group meeting.

The projector is connected to the computer using HDMI cables or VGA cables. The output from the computer is taken as input by the projector. Nowadays, traditional blackboards are also getting replaced by smart screens, which use projectors to display images and videos to the students for better understanding.

GPS (Global Positioning System)

The GPS device is a device used for navigation purposes that are connected to satellites and help in determining the location of the device connected. Think it of as an interactive screen that displays our device’s location on a map. This map is movable and can be used to find any location on the Earth.

Sound card

The sound card is an expansion card used in computers to connect input-output devices. It is either integrated. The sound card audio ports are visible on the side or back of the computer, where you can connect any device like a keyboard, headphones, speakers, and microphones. Each sport is specifically designed for each type of device. The primary function of the soundcard is used to play any audio, record audio, connect joysticks or controllers for gaming purposes, and speakers to listen to music or any sound.

Plotter

A plotter is an output device that works similarly to a printer, but for large vector graphics. The lines are made on paper using a pen or any other such tool mechanically by the plotter. These devices are used to print large high resolution, vector-based graphics, such as those used in architectural firms. They also prove advantageous as they can draw not only on paper but on varied types of surfaces like plywood, aluminum sheet, plastic, etc.

The only drawback is that they are quite expensive and require much larger space than normal printers.

Speech Generating Devices

Image By – Poule at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

The SGDs are augmentative and alternate communication systems used to produce synthesized audio to help people with hearing and speech impairment. The device has a varied language system and is different from the existing audio devices as it can be alternated according to the specific needs of the patient or a child with underdeveloped speech.

One can interact with the system by just tilting an eye, tilting the head in different directions, or a finger using the key-guard. The device is one of the major advancements in the field of medical science. One of the great examples of SGD was the one used by the renowned scientist Stephen Hawking.

Braille Reader

The braille reader or the braille display is a device to assist people with vision impairment. The output produced by the computer is converted into the braille, consisting of small round raised dots on a flat surface, which can be read by the user with the touch of hands.

Types of Output Devices

Output devices are the parts of a computer that let us actually interact with the information it processes. Whether it’s displaying, printing, or playing something, these devices help us see, hear, or even feel what the computer is doing. They’re essential for making the results of computer operations understandable to us.

There are three main types: Visual output devices (like monitors and projectors), Print output devices (like printers), and Audio output devices (like speakers or headphones). Each one plays a different role in helping us engage with the digital world.

1. Visual Output Devices

Visual output devices are what we rely on to see everything our computer is doing. Whether it’s text, images, videos, or graphics, these devices make it all visible. They’re probably the most common type of output device, from everyday monitors and projectors to high-resolution displays, making them essential for everything from watching movies to working on presentations.

Common Visual Output Devices

Monitors: A monitor (or screen) is the primary device for visual output. It displays everything from operating system interfaces to videos and games. Modern monitors, like LCD or LED, provide clear and sharp images.
Projectors: Projectors take the computer’s visual output and enlarge it, typically onto a wall or screen. They are often used for presentations in classrooms or offices.
VR Headsets: These devices provide immersive visual experiences by creating a 3D virtual environment. They are popular in gaming, education, and virtual tours.

How Visual Output Works?

When your computer processes data, the visual output device takes those signals and turns them into things you can actually see, like text or images. How good the display looks depends on a few key factors, like the screen resolution, refresh rate, and pixel density. Higher resolution means sharper images, a faster refresh rate leads to smoother motion, and higher pixel density makes everything look more detailed.

2. Print Output Devices

Print output devices take digital information and turn it into something you can hold in your hand. Whether it’s a document or an image, these devices convert data from your computer into a format that can be printed on paper or other materials. They’re super handy for everything from creating reports to printing photos.

Common Print Output Devices

Printers: These devices print text and images onto paper. There are different types of printers, including:
- Inkjet Printers: They spray tiny droplets of ink onto paper. They’re common for home use because they are affordable and can print in color.
- Laser Printers: They use a laser beam to produce high-quality prints quickly, ideal for offices where large volumes of printing are required.
3D Printers: These are advanced printers that create three-dimensional objects layer by layer from digital models. They are used in industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and education.

How Print Output Works?

When you give a print command, the computer sends the document to the printer. The printer processes the data and prints it, whether it’s a photo, a page of text, or a 3D object.

3. Audio Output Devices

Audio output devices bring sound to life by letting us hear music, voices, and alerts. They take the digital audio signals from your computer and convert them into sound waves that our ears can pick up. Whether you’re listening to a favorite song, watching a video, or getting a notification, these devices play a crucial role in enhancing our overall experience with technology.

Common Audio Output Devices

Speakers: These are the most common audio output devices. They play sound from videos, music, system alerts, or any audio file.
Headphones/Earphones: These personal audio devices allow you to listen to audio without disturbing others. They are widely used for private listening or in noisy environments.
Soundbars and Surround Sound Systems: These are specialized speakers used for enhancing audio, often connected to TVs or computers for a better movie or gaming experience.

How Audio Output Works?

When a computer sends an audio signal, the sound card processes it and forwards it to the audio output device. The device converts these signals into sound waves that we can hear.

Monitor vs Projector

When it comes to displaying visual content, monitors and projectors are two of the most commonly used devices. Both serve the purpose of showing information from a computer or another media device, but they do so in different ways and are suited for different needs.

Monitors are the standard display screens found on desktops, laptops, and other personal devices. They provide high-resolution images, often in smaller, personal spaces. Projectors, on the other hand, are used to cast large images onto a surface, like a wall or screen, and are ideal for presentations, group viewings, or home theaters.

Feature	Monitor	Projector
Display Size	Fixed display size, ranging from 15 to 32 inches (or larger for specialized monitors).	Can project images from a few inches to over 100 inches, depending on the projector model and distance.
Resolution Quality	Typically offers higher resolutions (e.g., 1080p, 4K, 5K) with sharp image quality.	Resolution can vary, but high-end projectors now offer 1080p or even 4K, though image sharpness may depend on the projection surface.
Portability	Usually stationary, attached to a computer or desk. Lightweight monitors are portable but not as convenient for travel.	Highly portable, allowing easy setup in different locations. Projectors are compact and travel-friendly.
Brightness	Generally brighter and clearer in a well-lit room. Works well in any lighting conditions.	Image brightness depends on projector lumens and room lighting. Better suited for darker environments.
Audience Size	Best suited for individual or small group viewing, as the screen size is fixed.	Ideal for large audiences or group settings, with the ability to project a larger image viewable by many.
Setup and Maintenance	Easy to set up with minimal maintenance required. Mostly plug-and-play.	Requires a screen or flat surface, adjusting for focus, and periodic maintenance like bulb replacement.
Cost	Price ranges from affordable to expensive based on size, features, and resolution.	Entry-level projectors can be affordable, but high-end models, especially with higher resolutions, can be pricey.
Lifespan	Typically has a longer lifespan with minimal wear and tear over time.	Projector bulbs have a limited lifespan and may need replacement after a few thousand hours of use.
Best Use Cases	Perfect for office work, gaming, and tasks requiring detailed graphics.	Great for presentations, home theater setups, and large-scale viewing like classrooms or conferences.

Inkjet Printer vs Laser Printer

When it comes to choosing a printer, the two most popular types are inkjet and laser printers. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on your printing needs, whether it’s for home, school, or business.

Inkjet printers are known for their versatility, especially when it comes to printing high-quality photos and colored images. Laser printers, on the other hand, are popular for their speed and efficiency, particularly for large volumes of text-heavy documents.

Feature	Inkjet Printer	Laser Printer
Printing Technology	Uses liquid ink sprayed through tiny nozzles onto the paper.	Uses laser technology to transfer toner (powder) onto the paper.
Best for	Ideal for printing photos, graphics, and documents with color.	Best for high-volume printing, especially black-and-white text documents.
Print Speed	Slower compared to laser printers. Takes time to print multiple pages.	Faster, especially for printing large batches of documents.
Print Quality (Text)	Decent text quality, but not as sharp as laser printers.	Excellent text quality with sharp and crisp letters.
Print Quality (Images)	Superior at printing high-quality photos and colored images.	Not as good for detailed color images or photos, though color laser printers exist.
Cost (Initial)	Generally cheaper to purchase upfront.	Higher initial cost, especially for color laser printers.
Cost (Per Page)	Higher cost per page due to the need to frequently replace ink cartridges.	Lower cost per page, as toner cartridges last longer and print more pages.
Maintenance	Ink cartridges need to be replaced more often and can dry up if not used regularly.	Requires less frequent maintenance, but replacing toner can be expensive.
Size and Portability	Smaller, more compact, and easy to fit in small spaces like home offices.	Bulkier and heavier, often more suited for office environments.
Noise Level	Generally quieter but can be noisy during photo printing.	Typically quieter during operation.
Durability	May experience ink smudging or fading over time, especially with low-quality ink.	Prints are more durable, smudge-resistant, and fade-resistant over time.
Environmental Impact	Produces more waste due to ink cartridges and may use more energy during printing.	More energy-efficient and produces less waste since toner lasts longer.

How to Choose the Right Computer Output Device?

Choosing the right computer output device depends on what we want to do with it. Here’s a breakdown of some common factors to consider-

Type of Output

Visual: Do you need a monitor to see information on the screen? Or a projector to display it on a larger scale?
Print: Are you looking for a printer for documents or photos? Printers come in various types like laser or inkjet, with different ink or toner costs to consider.
Audio: Do you need speakers for listening to music or presentations? Headphones might be preferable for private listening or gaming.

Functionality

Resolution: This is especially important for monitors and printers. Higher resolution means sharper images and text. For basic tasks, a lower resolution might suffice, but for professional graphics or photo editing, a higher resolution is crucial.
Color Accuracy: If you’re working with a lot of graphics or photos, consider how well the device reproduces colors.
Connectivity: Does the device connect with your computer via cable (common options include HDMI, USB, DVI) or wirelessly (Bluetooth, WiFi)?

Budget

Initial Cost: How much are you willing to spend on the device itself?
Running Costs: Consider the ongoing cost of ink/toner for printers or any additional accessories you might need.

Here are some examples to illustrate these points-

For everyday tasks like browsing the web or working on documents: A standard monitor with a moderate resolution (around 1080p) and basic speakers would be sufficient.
For professional graphics design or photo editing: You’d likely need a high-resolution monitor with good color accuracy.

How Output Devices Impact Computer Performance?

Output devices play a significant role in determining the overall performance and user experience of a computer. While they don’t directly affect processing power, they do influence how efficiently information is displayed, printed, or heard, which can impact user productivity and system responsiveness.

For instance, a high-resolution monitor can display clearer images, but it may also require more graphical processing power, especially for tasks like gaming or video editing. Similarly, printers, especially high-quality ones, may slow down the system while processing large, complex print jobs. Audio output devices like speakers or headphones don’t significantly impact performance, but if you’re using advanced sound systems or professional editing tools, they can add to the computer’s load.

Future Trends in Output Devices

The future of output devices is likely to be more immersive, interactive, and tailored to our senses. Here are some trends to look out for-

Enhanced Displays
- Flexible screens: Monitors and displays that bend or curve for better portability and potentially even wearable applications.
- Holographic displays: Projecting 3D imagery for a more realistic and interactive experience.
- Advanced haptics: Screens that vibrate or provide tactile feedback to simulate textures or objects on the screen.
Sensory Integration
- Multimodal interfaces: combining audio, visual, and haptic feedback for a more unified experience.
- Brain-computer interfaces (BCI): potentially bypassing traditional displays altogether and feeding information directly into the brain.
Personalization
- Eye-tracking displays: adjusting content based on where you’re looking
- Biometric sensors: tailoring output to your individual preferences or even health conditions.
Environmental Awareness
- Energy-efficient displays: reduced power consumption for monitors and other devices.
- Sustainable materials: increasing use of recycled or eco-friendly materials in device construction.

Conclusion

In conclusion, output devices are the bridge between the digital world within the computer and the user’s perception. From familiar monitors and printers to cutting-edge speakers with haptic feedback, they play a vital role in how we experience information. As technology progresses, output devices are poised to become more immersive, responsive, and tailored to our individual needs.

The future holds promise for displays that bend and respond to touch, project holographic images, and even integrate with our senses directly. With a focus on efficiency and sustainability, these advancements promise to redefine how we interact with computers and the data they generate.