A computer can calculate and process just fine all by itself, but with peripherals, it can share its results and accept additional data. Peripherals can be standard, such as a monitor that lets you see what your computer is doing, or a mouse that moves your cursor to different points on the screen or allows you to perform operations without complex keystrokes or commands. Businesses can benefit from finding the right types of peripherals for their workplace computers.
Input Peripherals
Some devices, such as the keyboard, mouse or drawing pad, are designed to allow you to share data to your machine in the form of text commands in a language the computer understands, or the correct positioning of a cursor with a mouse. Peripherals can also be used for access purposes, such as typing in the proper password on the keyboard to access the program menu. A scanner is another input peripheral that can be handy in a business environment for bringing in text or digital images into a computer. These devices might plug directly into your computer or be connected through a wireless setup.
Output Peripherals
Your business can also use peripherals that enhance what your computer produces. Printers can share documentation of your system activity, such as an annual report or envelopes to your customers. Monitors allow you to view the activity on a computer, whether it's a workstation, a network that needs to be regularly monitored or a display in the lobby. Speakers are also output peripherals and allow you to hear sounds, which is especially helpful if you take part in online teleconferences and webinars.
Input/Output Peripherals
Some devices give input to your machine and also receive data. External hard drives, for instance, can be used to store files from your computer as a backup. Hard drives can also be used to place files on your machine. Peripherals such as a USB flash drive or CD/DVD drive can be an easy way to move files from one computer to another. A webcam and headset with microphone are other examples of peripherals that can receive and send data.
Business Needs
Although some basic peripherals are standard, such as a monitor or mouse, your workplace needs and budget can determine which other peripherals are necessary, such as a faster laser printer for higher quality or higher speed printing, a larger monitor for the whole office to see, a drawing pad and pen for a graphic designer who may want something more precise than a mouse or even touch screens on a kiosk for customers to use in your lobby.
