An outline of the different types of computer accessories and peripherals

With the progress the field of science and technology has been making, one shouldn’t be overwhelmed if they come across a time machine in future. We have been successfully making the impossible feats come true; for instance, a few years ago, wearable technology was deemed as a far-fetched idea. Contrary to this belief, we can see the market flooded with such wearable tech.

A walk down the memory lane will help you trace the origin of such development and acquaint you with one of the path-breaking innovation of all time—the computer.

The word “accessories” and “peripherals” have been used interchangeably, but computer accessories imply add-on devices which prove quite useful but aren’t integral to the functioning of the computer system. Whereas, computer peripherals are a different story altogether. Computer peripherals are an integral part of the entire system and add to the functioning of the computer. Computer accessories and peripherals, each have a function to perform, but the latter’s function is related to the primary functions.

Computer accessories, though not indispensable to the functioning of the computer, are known to enhance the user’s experience. A gamepad, headphones, joystick, a UPS, graphics tablets, laptop covers, and cases, etc. are the most common computer accessories you will come across. These are quite different from computer peripherals. Peripherals deal with more serious stuff.

Computer peripherals are of different types and are divided into the following categories.

• Input peripherals – Input peripherals are those devices that are instrumental in feeding commands into the system. The most common input peripherals you will come across are the keyboard, mouse, scanner, etc. Each of these devices performs functions that contribute to the computer’s functioning. Even when you are assembling your PC, you need these input peripherals since they are an indispensable part of the system as a whole.
• Output peripherals – Output peripherals are those parts of the computer system without which you cannot see the result of the commands you typed in. One of the most indispensable parts of the system is the monitor. Without the monitor, you can view the output; you cannot view any of the computer’s activity. Printers are also classified as an output peripheral since it allows you to access the information you saved in the form of documents. Speakers are also an output peripheral. These prove quite useful when you have to attend webinars or are video-conferencing.
• Input and output peripherals – Various computer peripherals double as input and output peripherals as well. For instance, external hard drives can be used for storing data as a backup option and it can be used to place files on your computer from some other device as well. One can even think of a webcam and headset with a microphone as an input and output peripheral. These peripherals are useful in sending and receiving data. Even a USB flash drive or a CD/DVD drive can be categorized under this section.
• Other peripherals – These computer peripherals are available in their basic form and an upgraded version as well. One can even categorize such peripherals into business peripherals since these are most commonly used in workplaces. The external hard disk drive, memory card, DVD + R, Zip disk drive, etc. belong to this category.

Irrespective of whether it is the computer accessories or peripherals you are out to buy, caution has to be exercised while purchasing these, especially when you are buying these online. Ensure that you buy it from a trusted dealer or website since poor quality computer accessories and peripherals can damage your computer system.