Peripheral devices are auxiliary hardware devices used to transfer information into and out of a computer. They are controlled by the computer system but are not considered its core components. Peripheral devices can be classified into three categories based on their purpose: input devices, output devices, and input/output devices. Examples of peripheral devices include:
Input Devices:
- Keyboard
- Mouse
- Scanner
- Microphone
- Graphics tablet
- Image scanner
- Barcode reader
- Game controller
- Light pen
- Light gun
- Webcam
Output Devices:
- Computer monitor
- Projector
- Printer
- Headphones
- Computer speakers
- Loudspeakers
- Flow valves that control machinery
Input/Output Devices:
- Computer data storage device (including a disk drive, solid-state drive, USB flash drive, memory card, and tape drive)
- Modem
- Network adapter
- Multi-function printer
Peripheral devices can be connected to a computer through wired or wireless connections. Wired connections include USB, HDMI, DVI, Ethernet, and serial ports, while wireless connections include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and infrared. After a peripheral is connected, drivers may need to be installed to ensure the device functions properly. Peripheral device drivers are software that enables a peripheral device to communicate with a computers operating system.
