Chapter 8. InputOutput Devices and Cables

Chapter 8. Input/Output Devices and Cables

In this chapter

• Parallel Ports

• Parallel Port Configuration

• Serial Ports

• USB Ports

• Modems

• Keyboards

• Mouse and Pointing Devices

• Audio Hardware and Sound Cards

• IEEE-1394 (FireWire)

No matter how well a computer is equipped, there will come a time when you want to plug something else into it. From printers to mice to broadband Internet devices, external peripherals of all kinds connect to ports on your computer. If your computer doesn't have the correct port needed for a peripheral , you can't use that peripheral until you add the port required. This chapter covers the configuration, setup, and uses of the fundamental input/output ports and devices most computers have in common:

• Parallel port

• Serial port

• Modem

• Keyboard

• Mouse

• Sound card

• USB

• IEEE-1394 (FireWire)

The CD included with this book contains important Study Lab material for this chapter, as well as Chapters 2 “22 in this book. The Study Lab for each chapter contains terms to study, exercises, and practice tests ”all in printable PDF format (Adobe Acrobat Reader is included on the CD, too). These Study Lab materials will help you gear up for the A+ Exam. Also, the CD includes an industry-leading test engine from PrepLogic, which simulates the actual A+ test so that you can be sure that you're ready when test day arrives. Don't let the A+ test intimidate you. If you've read the chapters, worked through the Study Lab, and passed the practice tests from PrepLogic, you should be well prepared to ace the test!

Also, you'll notice that some words throughout each chapter are in bold format. These are study terms that are defined in the Study Lab. Be sure to consult the Study Lab when you are finished with this chapter to test what you've learned.

This chapter discusses installation, configuration, cabling, and physical installation issues for these ports and devices. Windows driver installation and configuration issues are discussed in Chapter 19, "Installing and Configuring Hardware in Windows."