1.1 Computer Hardware Flashcards
What is computer hardware?
The physical parts attached to a computer (output, input + communication devices).
Examples include monitor, mouse, keyboard.
What is an input device?
A device that allows data - text, images, video, sound - to be entered into the system.
What is an output device?
Created by a computer system - printed documents, on-screen data, sound.
What are some examples of input devices?
Mouse, keyboard, microphone, controller, graphics tablet, scanner, webcam.
What are some examples of output devices?
Monitor, printer, speaker, projector, alarm, headphones.
What are the benefits of wired input keyboard devices?
No additional power source required; not affected by external sources/signals.
What are the disadvantages of wired input keyboard devices?
Position restriction due to length of lead; time-consuming - user cannot touch type.
What are the benefits of wireless input devices?
Less workspace clutter; can be placed anywhere convenient.
What are the disadvantages of wireless input devices?
Affected by nearby Wi-Fi signals; cyber criminals can intercept signals because wireless keyboards are unsecure/unencrypted.
What are the benefits of integrated keyboards?
Smaller than normal keyboard; more mobile.
What are the disadvantages of integrated keyboards?
Keys are closer together, leading to more typing errors; lack of control keys/keypad.
What are the benefits of on-screen keyboards?
More mobile.
What are the disadvantages of on-screen keyboards?
Small size can lead to typing speed errors; readability restrictions.
Which devices are considered to be both input and output devices?
Headphones (output) with microphone (input); touchscreen monitors - a touch screen is the only device which works as both an input and an output device.
What are the benefits of LCD monitors?
Compact size; lightweight; run off batteries, useful for laptops.
What are the disadvantages of LCD monitors?
Resolution of monitor not always constant.
What are the benefits of touchscreen monitors?
More desk space; increased speed compared to keyboard/mouse to move and select items.
What are the disadvantages of touchscreen monitors?
Dirty displays; difficulty in touching small objects.
What are the benefits of LED monitors?
High contrast image display; less heat produced.
What are the disadvantages of LED monitors?
Resolution can vary.
What is a biometric device?
Uses human characteristics as part of its security mechanism - fingerprint, iris, face, voice.
What are the benefits of biometric devices?
Improved security - no password sharing; user verification; if password exposed, system cannot be entered without biometric.
