1.2 Output DevicesThese are devices that are used to obtain output from the computer.

Types Flatbed Drum

Uses1. used to produce

printout of graphs2. sometimes used to

produce billboards and signs

Advantages Disadvantagesextremely large printouts can be produced

they are very slow to produce outputs.

the graphic output is of very high quality

filled areas of colors are difficult to produce using pen plottersthey are very expensive

2. Plotters

Uses1. used in applications

where low noise is essential.

2. Essential in applications which require fast, high-quality, high-volume output, for example in most offices and school.

3. Laser Printers

Advantages Disadvantages

• Fast output is achieved. • Limited in the paper size that they can take.

• Running costs are cheaper than inkjet printers.

• Large printout jobs can be carried out quickly.

• Initial costs are high as they are expensive.

• Quality of printing tends to be higher than other printers.

• First page can be slow to print.

• Toner cartridges last much longer than inkjet cartridges.

4. Inkjet Printers Uses1. used where there are

low output volumes.2. Very good when

applications require very high-quality output and where speed is not an issue.

3. Inkjet printers are being developed that will create three-dimensional models.

Advantages Disadvantages

• Produce high quality output.

• Slow to print more than one page.

• Fast for printing one-page documents.

• Cheaper to buy than other printers.

• More expensive to run because inkjet cartridges don’t last as longer as toner cartridges.

• Easier to move than other printers.

• First page can be slow to print.

5. Dot Matrix Printers Uses1. can work in

environments which would cause problems for laser and inkjet printers.

2. used in noisy environment such as garages and car servicing, car sales and car repair services.

Advantages Disadvantages• dirty and noisy

environments do not affect the printer

• are very noisy and so unsuitable for most office environment.• produces carbon

copies

• running costs are low

• are now more expensive than inkjet printers.

• continuous print jobs using pre-printed stationary are more easily managed

• are most slowest type of printers.

6. Speakers Uses1. speakers are required

to play sound files attached to multimedia presentations and websites

2. computers and MP3 players use speakers to play music from CDs and DVDs

3. speakers are integral part of home entertainment systems