Peripheral Basics
What is a peripheral?
A device that connects to a computer to expand its capabilities.
What input device lets you type text into a computer?
Keyboard
What output device displays images and text on a screen?
Monitor
What portable device stores and transfers files through a USB port?
Flash Drive
You need to print your essay—what device do you use?
Printer
True or False: Peripherals are built inside the computer.
False — they are external devices.
What input device moves a pointer to select objects on the screen?
Mouse
Which output device produces physical copies of documents?
Printer
What is the main purpose of an external hard drive?
Backing up and storing large amounts of data.
Your teacher wants a copy of your project, but email isn’t working—what could you use?
Flash DRIVE
Name two categories of peripherals.
Input and Output (or Storage).
Which input device converts spoken words into digital form?
Microphone
What output device plays sound from your computer?
Speakers
Why might a cloud drive be considered a virtual peripheral?
It performs storage functions through the internet rather than physical hardware.
You’re presenting to the class and want everyone to see your slides—what do you use?
What makes a device both input and output? Give an example.
It both sends and receives data (e.g., touchscreen).
Name an input device that captures physical documents or photos.
Scanner
How does a projector differ from a monitor?
A projector displays an image onto a larger surface for a group view.
What’s the difference between temporary and permanent storage?
Temporary (RAM) is erased when powered off; permanent (flash drive, hard drive) remains saved.
You’re in a video call and people can’t hear you—what peripheral might be the problem?
Microphone
Why are peripherals important for computer functionality?
They allow users to interact with, view, and save data beyond the computer’s core system.
How does a webcam differ from a digital camera when used as an input device?
A webcam streams live video directly to the computer; a digital camera stores images for later transfer.
Explain why headphones can be considered a personal output device.
They output audio directly to one user, instead of a room.
What’s the risk of relying only on one external drive for backups?
If it’s lost or damaged, all data could be lost.
You want to back up photos, record a podcast, and present slides. Name three peripherals you’d use.
External hard drive, microphone, and projector.