Chapter 2 - Input/Output Basics
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Vocabulary
- Input - information that is entered into a computer.
- Input Device - any device that allows a user to input information into a computer.
- Data - any words, numbers, images and sounds that can be entered into a computer.
- Command - an instruction that tells a software program what to do. (Example: Ctrl + S = Save)
- Response - When a computer presents you with a choice and you have to select (Example: Do you want to exit this program? YES or NO)
- Pointer - a digital representation of your mouse on the screen. It usually looks like an arrow.
- Speech recognition - a type of software that can recognize human speech and convert it into typing.
- Digital camera - a camera that takes and stores photos in a digital format.
- Scanner - a device that converts a printed image into a digital image.
- Modem - allows one computer to input data into another computer.
- Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) - an injury to the nerves in the hand that is caused by repetitive motion from typing and using a mouse. You may have to have surgery if you get RSI.
- Output - information that is displayed after being processed. There are four types of output: text, graphics, video and audio.
- Output Device - any device that displays information.
- Monitor - an output device that allows users to see what the computer is processing.
- Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) - a type of monitor that fire electrons at the back of a screen and cause it to glow. CRT monitors are the big, heavy monitors commonly found attached to older computers.
- Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) - a type of monitor that sends electrical signals through small crystals, causing them to form images.
- Printer - an output device that creates a physical result of information processed by the computer.
- Impact printer - receives signals from the computer that cause hammers or pins to press a ribbon covered in ink, similar to a typewriter. Dot matrix printers are an example of an impact printer.
- Nonimpact printers - a type of printer that is most commonly used today. These work by either spraying toner or ink onto a sheet of paper. The two main types of nonimpact printers are laser printers and inkjet printers.