Choose an output device
Match screens, projectors, printers, speakers and actuators to the form of output required.
Section 3 · Hardware
Exam scope and assessment notes
This sequence follows Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0984, 2026–2028 syllabus Version 4. It covers subject content sections 3.1–3.3 only. The separately published 2029–2031 syllabus is not mapped here. Practice is original, self-checked and does not award an official Cambridge grade. Full timed papers and human subject-teacher review remain outstanding. Cambridge states that 0984 has the same 2026–2028 subject content as 0478, with 9–1 grading. In June and November, Cambridge lists 0984 in Administrative zone 3 and for centres in Oman and the UAE. Confirm availability for your centre and exam series with Cambridge International. The separately published 2029–2031 syllabus changes to Python 3 only and removes pseudocode; this 2026–2028 route does not cover those changes.
Before you begin
- No programming language is required. Be comfortable with place value and multiplication; each lesson introduces the computer-science notation it uses.
Work on paper. Try each question before revealing help, and explain why your method works.
Quick readiness check
What does an output device do?
What you will learn
- Define an output device
- Identify what common output devices produce
- Select an output device for a stated result
Output communicates a processed result
An output device presents data from a computer. An LED or LCD screen shows visual information, an LCD or DLP projector displays it for a larger audience, and a speaker produces sound.
Apply and check the rule
An inkjet or laser printer creates printed pages; a 3D printer creates a physical object; an actuator produces movement or control in a system. Choose based on the output medium and task, not on the device's name alone.
Pause and explain
Which device is suitable for producing a detailed paper report?
Worked example
A classroom computer must display a diagram to a large group. Which output device is suitable?
Show the worked solution
- The output is a visual image for a group.
- A projector can enlarge the display onto a screen.
- An LCD or DLP projector is suitable.
Answer A projector, such as an LCD or DLP projector, displays the diagram for the room.
Try a topic test
Choose Easy, Normal or Difficult. Save your answers and open worked review after finishing.
Test this topic →From guided practice to a new situation
Write your answer and reasoning first. Use a hint only if you are stuck. The model solution is for self-checking; your written work is not automatically marked.
Select an output device for an alarm that must be heard rather than read.
Give me a hint
Identify the required output medium.
Compare my reasoning
- The user needs an audible alert.
- A speaker produces sound output.
Speaker
Look for these in your work
- Audible need identified
- Device chosen
A design studio needs a full-size physical model from a computer file. Which output device fits?
Give me a hint
The output must be a three-dimensional object.
Compare my reasoning
- A 3D printer creates a physical three-dimensional object.
- A paper printer would only produce a flat page.
3D printer
Look for these in your work
- Physical model requirement
- 3D output device
A greenhouse controller must open a vent when it becomes too hot. Which output component is needed and what does it do?
Give me a hint
The computer must cause physical movement.
Compare my reasoning
- A temperature sensor supplies the input.
- An actuator receives the control output.
- It converts the control signal into physical movement of the vent.
An actuator is needed to move the vent in response to the controller's signal.
Look for these in your work
- Output component identified
- Signal role
- Physical action explained
Common mistakes
- Calling an actuator a display
- Treating all printers as producing the same type of output
What can you explain now?
Which output device produces sound?
Compare with the explanation
Speaker
A speaker converts computer output into sound.
After trying it yourself, choose your next review. This is your self-assessment.
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Make it stick
Which output device would you choose for visual, printed, audio and physical movement output?
If you needed the solution, close it and solve the problem again from a blank page. A correct answer is stronger when you can explain the reason for each step.