Explain the difference between hardware and software. List four examples of computer hardware. State two examples each of system software and application software.

Q5a) What is an output device?
An output device is a piece of hardware equipment that receives processed data from a computer and displays, projects, or reproduces it in a human-readable form. It allows the computer to communicate information back to the user.

Q5b) List four examples of output devices.

• Monitor
• Printer
• Speakers
• Projector

Q5c) Differentiate between soft-copy output and hard-copy output.

• Soft-copy output refers to digital output that is temporary and intangible, meaning it cannot be physically touched or held. It is typically displayed on a screen or played through speakers.
• Hard-copy output refers to physical, tangible output that is permanent and can be touched and held. It is usually printed on paper or other physical media.

Q5d) Give two examples of each type of output.

• Soft-copy output:
  1. Text displayed on a monitor
  2. Music played through speakers
• Hard-copy output:
  1. A document printed on paper from a printer
  2. A drawing plotted on a large sheet by a plotter