DIGITAL SKILLS MODULE 1 (Basics of a computer)

DIGITAL SKILLS MODULE 1 (Basics of a computer)

Menu

Introduction to Computer Peripherals

Definition

Computer peripherals are external devices that are connected to a computer to enhance its functionality and provide additional features. These peripherals extend the capabilities of a computer beyond its core components, such as the central processing unit (CPU), memory, and storage. Some common computer peripherals include printers, scanners, keyboards, mice, monitors, speakers, and external storage devices.  

Here, let's focus on printers and scanners specifically

1. Printers:

Printers are output devices that produce hard copies of digital documents or images. They allow you to transfer digital content onto physical paper or other media. There are several types of printers available, including:

 

a) Inkjet Printers: These printers use liquid ink sprayed through tiny nozzles onto the paper to create the printed output. Inkjet printers are affordable and versatile, providing high-quality color printing for both text and images.

 

b) Laser Printers: Laser printers use a laser beam to transfer toner onto the paper, creating high-resolution prints. They are commonly used in offices and businesses for high-speed printing and can handle large volumes of printing.

 

c) All-in-One Printers: All-in-one printers combine multiple functionalities into a single device. They can be used as printers, scanners, copiers, and sometimes even fax machines. All-in-one printers are often used in home offices or small businesses to save space and reduce costs.

 

2. Scanners:

Scanners are input devices that convert physical documents, images, or objects into digital files that can be stored, edited, or shared on a computer. They capture the details of the item being scanned and create a digital representation in the form of an image or document file. Common types of scanners include:

 

a) Flatbed Scanners: These scanners have a flat glass bed where you place the document or image to be scanned. The scanner head moves across the item, capturing the image or document. Flatbed scanners are versatile and can handle different sizes and types of materials, such as photos, documents, or books.

 

b) Sheet-fed Scanners: Sheet-fed scanners work by automatically feeding documents through a scanning mechanism. They are particularly useful for scanning large amounts of paper documents, such as receipts, contracts, or forms, quickly and efficiently.

 

c) Portable Scanners: Portable scanners are compact and lightweight devices that allow you to scan documents on the go. They are especially handy for people who need to digitize documents while traveling or working remotely.

Other Computer Periphrals

1. Keyboards:

The keyboard is one of the primary input devices for a computer. It consists of a set of keys that you use to type and input commands into the computer. Keyboards come in different layouts, such as the QWERTY layout, and can be wired or wireless. Some keyboards also offer additional features like multimedia keys, programmable keys, and backlighting.

 

2. Mice:

The mouse is another essential input device that allows you to navigate and interact with graphical user interfaces. It typically consists of buttons and a scroll wheel, which enable clicking, dragging, selecting, and scrolling actions. Mice can connect via USB or wirelessly through technologies like Bluetooth or RF (Radio Frequency). Different types of mice include traditional wired mice, wireless mice, gaming mice with customizable buttons, trackballs, and ergonomic mice for increased comfort.

 

3. Monitors:

Monitors or displays are output devices that provide visual output from the computer. They showcase text, images, videos, and other graphical elements generated by the computer's graphics card. Monitors come in various sizes, resolutions, and display technologies, such as LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), LED (Light Emitting Diode), and OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode).

 

4. Speakers:

Speakers are audio output devices that allow you to listen to sound produced by the computer. They provide audio playback for music, videos, games, and other multimedia content. Speakers can connect via audio jacks, USB, or wirelessly through Bluetooth. Some computers also have built-in speakers, while others require external speakers for sound output.

 

5. Headphones and Microphones:

Headphones and microphones are audio peripherals that facilitate private listening and voice communication. Headphones provide audio output directly to the ears, while microphones capture audio input from the user's voice. They are commonly used for activities like gaming, listening to music, video conferencing, or voice recording.

 

6. Webcams:

Webcams are video input devices that capture video and audio. They are particularly useful for activities like video conferencing, online streaming, video chatting, or capturing videos and images. Webcams can be built into laptops or monitors, or external USB webcams can be connected separately.

 

7. External Storage Devices:

External storage devices, such as hard drives or solid-state drives (SSDs), provide additional space for storing files, documents, multimedia content, and backups. They connect to the computer through USB, Thunderbolt, or eSATA ports and allow you to have portable and expandable storage options    

Yahaya Barayavuga
X