Jan's Computer Basics:

Output: Summary

The results of processing are output as hard copy (printed) or soft copy (displayed on a screen or played as sounds).

Printers have different features to consider such as the kind of paper used, color printing or not, the speed of printing, the quality of print, the kind of cable needed to connect to the computer, the number of ink or toner cartridges, and the physical size compared to where you want to put it. Color printers use CMYK colors: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black.

Impact printers are still used for multi-copy forms but sheet printers (laser or ink jet) have taken over most of the market otherwise.

LCD monitors are standard now with thin screens that take much less space than CRT monitors. Colors are created using just 3 colors in subcells, red, green, and blue. The eye blends these together to make millions of colors.

Other output devices include projectors for presentations, 3D printing of objects, microfilm, speakers, medical devices like EEG and EKG recordings, and scientific devices like seismographs.