Applying input, output and storage devices to the solution of different problems

How different input, output and storage devices can be applied to the solution of different problems

1.1.3 Input, output and storage

Input, output and storage — Note 1 of 4

Candidates need to have an understanding of a range of input, output and storage devices. Candidates do not need to understand how the input and output devices work, but must be able to recommend appropriate devices for specific situations and be able to justify choices made

What you need to know

You need to be able to recommend suitable input, output and storage devices for a given scenario and justify each choice. You do not need to know how the devices work internally, but you must link the device's characteristics to the needs of the situation.

What to know

Input examples: keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, microphone, camera, barcode and QR scanner, RFID/NFC reader, sensors (temperature, light, pressure, motion), biometric scanners, OCR and OMR readers.
Output examples: monitor, printer (laser, inkjet, 3D), speakers, projectors, actuators and motors, LEDs, braille displays.
Storage examples: hard disk drive, solid-state drive, USB flash drive, memory card, optical disc, cloud storage.
Consider the user: accessibility needs (e.g. voice input, screen readers, braille), skill level, and where the device will be used.
Consider the environment: dust, water, temperature, movement, noise and whether the device must be portable.
Consider the data: how much there is, how quickly it must be captured, and whether it must be accurate (e.g. a barcode scanner avoids typing errors).

Exam technique

Tip:Justify every recommendation in context, e.g. 'An RFID reader is suitable for the warehouse because tags can be read from a distance without line of sight, so pallets can be logged as they pass through the door.'
Mistake:Naming a device without any justification, or giving a justification that would apply to any scenario.