Input and Output Devices

    AQA
    GCSE

    Input and output devices facilitate the interaction between computer systems and the external environment, acting as the peripheral boundary of the Von Neumann architecture. Input devices capture physical data or user commands and convert them into digital signals for the processor, while output devices translate binary results into human-perceptible formats or physical actuation. Mastery of this topic requires not only categorizing hardware but also analyzing the technical suitability of specific devices for complex scenarios, including accessibility requirements and industrial automation.

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    Objectives
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    Exam Tips
    4
    Pitfalls
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    Key Terms
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    Mark Points

    What You Need to Demonstrate

    Key skills and knowledge for this topic

    • Award 1 mark for selecting 'Optical Mark Recognition (OMR)' specifically for processing multiple-choice questionnaires at high speed.
    • Award 1 mark for explaining that a 'Laser Printer' is required for high-volume output due to faster pages-per-minute (PPM) and lower cost per page compared to inkjet.
    • Credit responses that link 'Actuators' to the physical movement output in a control system (e.g., opening a valve or turning a wheel).
    • Award 1 mark for justifying the use of a 'Resistive Touchscreen' over capacitive in a factory setting where workers wear gloves.

    Marking Points

    Key points examiners look for in your answers

    • Award 1 mark for selecting 'Optical Mark Recognition (OMR)' specifically for processing multiple-choice questionnaires at high speed.
    • Award 1 mark for explaining that a 'Laser Printer' is required for high-volume output due to faster pages-per-minute (PPM) and lower cost per page compared to inkjet.
    • Credit responses that link 'Actuators' to the physical movement output in a control system (e.g., opening a valve or turning a wheel).
    • Award 1 mark for justifying the use of a 'Resistive Touchscreen' over capacitive in a factory setting where workers wear gloves.

    Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for maximising your marks

    • 💡Apply the 'Environment Test': Before selecting a device, check the scenario for constraints like noise (rules out voice input), dirt/gloves (rules out capacitive touch), or limited space.
    • 💡For 'Compare' questions, use a two-column approach or comparative connectives ('whereas', 'however') to ensure you address both devices against the same criteria (e.g., cost, quality).
    • 💡Memorize specific accessibility devices: 'Braille keyboard' for visual impairment, 'Puff-suck switch' for motor control issues; generic answers like 'special keyboard' often fail to gain credit.

    Common Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

    • Stating 'it is faster' without qualification; candidates must specify 'faster data entry than manual typing' or 'faster processing than a human'.
    • Confusing 'Sensors' with 'Input Devices' generally; failing to specify the type of sensor (e.g., temperature, light, pressure) required for the scenario.
    • Suggesting 'Voice Recognition' in noisy environments (e.g., factories) where background noise would cause input errors.
    • Identifying a '3D Printer' as a standard output device without referencing its specific use for prototyping or manufacturing parts.

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    Likely Command Words

    How questions on this topic are typically asked

    State
    Explain
    Justify
    Compare
    Discuss

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