Input, output and storage devices

Input devices enter data, output devices display results, and storage devices save information. Key input devices include keyboards, mice, and microphones. Output devices include monitors and printers. Storage includes hard drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), and USB flash drives, allowing for data retention.

Input Devices (Entering Data)
These hardware components allow users to input data or commands into a computer system.

• Keyboard: Keys used to type text and commands.
• Mouse/Trackpad: Points and navigates on the screen.
• Scanner: Digitizes physical documents.
• Microphone: Captures audio.
• Webcam: Captures video input.
• Touchscreen: Allows interaction by touching the screen.
• Magnetic Stripe Reader: Reads data from cards.

Output Devices (Presenting Data)
These devices receive processed information from the computer and display it in a human-usable format.

• Monitor/Screen: Displays visual data.
• Printer: Produces hard copies of digital documents.
• Speakers/Headphones: Outputs audio.
• Projector: Displays computer images onto a wall or screen.
• Plotter: Prints large-scale vector graphics.

Storage Devices (Retaining Data)
These devices hold data permanently (non-volatile) or temporarily (volatile) for future use.

• Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Traditional high-capacity magnetic storage.
• Solid State Drive (SSD): Faster, durable flash memory storage.
• USB Flash Drive: Portable storage.
• Optical Discs: CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs.
• Cloud Storage: Remote servers for storing data over the internet.