Input and Output
Some devices handle both input and output functions. These devices are called input/output (I/O) devices, a term you will encounter quite often.
| Device | Description | |
|---|---|---|
 |
Floppy-disk drive | Mechanism to read and write to low-capacity, removable, magnetic disks. Used to store and easily transport information. |
| Hard-disk drive | High-capacity internal (and sometimes external) magnetic disks for storing data and program files. Also called fixed disks. | |
 |
Modem | Converts computer data to information that can be transmitted over telephone wires and cable lines. Allows communication between computers over long and short distances. |
 |
Network card | An expansion card that allows several computers to connect to each other and share information and programs. Also called network interface card (NIC). |
 |
CD recorder | Also called CD/R. You can create a CD with this device, but you can only write to a section of the disc once. Variations on this type of device include CD-RW (CD Read/Write) drives. These products allow you to read, write, and overwrite a special CD-ROM-type disc. |
 |
Tape drive | Large-capacity, magnetic, data-storage devices. Ideal for backup and retrieval of large amounts of data. Works like a tape recorder and saves information in a linear format. |