Peripheral Devices: Types and Functions for JKSSB - JKSSB Mock Test
Peripheral devices are hardware components that are connected to a computer to either input, output, or store data. These devices are essential in performing various tasks, and knowledge about them is important for exams like JKSSB, SSC, Banking, and other competitive tests.
What Are Peripheral Devices?
A peripheral device is any external or internal hardware device that provides input and output for the computer or is used for data storage. These devices are not a part of the computer’s core architecture (CPU and memory) but extend its functionality.
Main Categories of Peripheral Devices
Peripheral devices are broadly divided into the following three categories:
- Input Devices
- Output Devices
- Storage Devices
Input Devices
Input devices are used to send data to the computer system. They allow users to interact with the computer by providing instructions or information.
Examples of Input Devices:
- Keyboard: Used for typing text and commands into the computer.
- Mouse: A pointing device used to select and interact with items on the screen.
- Scanner: Converts physical documents into digital format.
- Microphone: Captures audio and sends it to the computer.
- Webcam: Captures video for video conferencing or recording.
- Joystick: Used mainly for playing games or controlling simulations.
- Touchscreen: Acts as both input and output by allowing direct interaction with the display.
Output Devices
Output devices receive data from the computer and convert it into human-readable form, such as text, graphics, audio, or printed documents.
Examples of Output Devices:
- Monitor: Displays text and graphics visually.
- Printer: Produces physical (hard copy) output on paper.
- Speakers: Output sound, music, or alerts from the computer.
- Projector: Projects the computer display onto a large screen.
- Headphones: Personal audio output device.
- Braille Reader: Converts on-screen text into braille for visually impaired users.
Storage Devices
Storage devices are used to save data and programs permanently or temporarily. These devices can be internal or external.
Examples of Storage Devices:
- Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Main storage component for saving operating system, files, and software.
- Solid State Drive (SSD): A faster alternative to HDD with no moving parts.
- Pen Drive (USB): Portable external device for transferring and storing files.
- Memory Card: Used in smartphones, cameras, and tablets for data storage.
- CD/DVD: Optical storage devices for reading/writing media and documents.
- Cloud Storage: Online service (like Google Drive or Dropbox) for saving and accessing files remotely.
Touchscreen – A Dual Peripheral
The touchscreen is both an input and output device. It displays information like a monitor and allows user interaction like a mouse or keyboard.
Comparison Table
- Keyboard → Input Device
- Monitor → Output Device
- Printer → Output Device
- Mouse → Input Device
- Scanner → Input Device
- Hard Drive → Storage Device
Importance in Exams (JKSSB, SSC, etc.)
- Peripheral devices are commonly asked in objective-type questions.
- You should know definitions, examples, and functions of each device.
- Dual function devices like touchscreen and modem are often asked.
Practice MCQs
- Which of the following is an input device?
→ Scanner - Which device is used to produce hard copy output?
→ Printer - SSD stands for?
→ Solid State Drive - What kind of device is a monitor?
→ Output Device - Touchscreen is which type of device?
→ Both Input and Output
Conclusion
Peripheral devices are a vital part of computer operations. They help in data entry, processing output, and saving information. For exams like JKSSB, understanding their types and functions can help you score easy marks. Revise this topic regularly and solve as many MCQs as possible to strengthen your preparation.