Output Devices

Question 1

Speakers

Answer 1

Uses audio signals and converts them to sound. There must be a sound card fitted inside a computer to allow sound to be output.

Advantages
- Useful for the visually impaired
- Natural way to communicate with users

Disadvantages
- External speakers require desk space
- Expensive
- Loud

Question 2

Inkjet Printers

Answer 2

Produces hard copies of text documents and photos by spraying ink droplets onto the paper. Typically used in the home.

Advantages
- Cheap
- Ink is cheaper
- Images can be high quality

Disadvantages
- Takes long to print

Question 3

Laser Printers

Answer 3

Uses laser beams to write the image onto a light sensitive drum. Paper is pressed against the drum to transfer image. Typically used in schools or offices.

Advantages
- Fast
- High quality images
- Allows colour
- Quiet

Disadvantages
- Produces shiny/artificial looking images
- Very expensive to buy

Question 4

3D Printers

Answer 4

Uses plastic to print plastic layers which create 3D models. Typically used to make custom pieces.

Advantages
- Save money making a 3D Prototype
- Saves production time by using it versus conventional methods

Disadvantages
- Can be slow
- Expensive to buy material
- Not economical for larger scale manufacturing