I/O Devices: Printer MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This is a multiple-choice quiz for Class IX, Subject: Computer Applications (Code 165), from Unit 1: Basics of Information Technology. This quiz focuses on the topic of Printers, covering their role as an output device and the basic types like impact and non-impact printers. Answer all 10 questions and click “Submit Quiz” to see your score and download a PDF of your answers.
About Printers as I/O Devices
A printer is an essential peripheral device that accepts text and graphic output from a computer and transfers the information to paper. It is one of the most common examples of an output device. Printers vary widely in size, speed, sophistication, and cost. In general, they are classified into two main categories: impact printers and non-impact printers.
Classification of Printers
1. Impact Printers
Impact printers create an image by using a mechanism to physically strike an ink-soaked ribbon against the paper. They are analogous to a typewriter. These printers are typically loud but remain in use for applications that require multi-part forms, like invoices or receipts.
- Example: Dot-Matrix Printer. It uses a print head that moves back and forth, and pins strike the ribbon to form characters from a matrix of dots.
2. Non-Impact Printers
Non-impact printers form characters and images on a piece of paper without actually striking the paper. They use technologies like laser, ink spray, or heat and pressure. These printers are much quieter, faster, and produce higher quality output than impact printers.
- Inkjet Printers: These printers work by spraying tiny, ionized droplets of ink onto the paper. They are popular for home use as they can produce high-quality color images at a low initial cost.
- Laser Printers: These printers use a laser beam to project an image of the page onto an electrically charged drum. The drum then attracts powdered ink (toner), which is transferred to the paper and fused onto it with heat. They are known for high speed and excellent text quality, making them ideal for office environments.
Quick Comparison of Printer Types
| Feature | Dot-Matrix Printer | Inkjet Printer | Laser Printer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | Impact (Pins strike ribbon) | Non-Impact (Ink spray) | Non-Impact (Toner & Laser) |
| Speed | Slow | Moderate | Fast |
| Print Quality | Low | Good (especially for color) | Excellent (especially for text) |
| Cost per Page | Very Low | High | Low to Moderate |
Key Printer Terminology
- DPI (Dots Per Inch): A measure of a printer’s resolution. The higher the DPI, the sharper and more detailed the printed image will be.
- PPM (Pages Per Minute): A measure of a printer’s speed. It indicates how many pages the printer can produce in one minute.
- Toner: A dry, powdered ink used in laser printers.
- Ink Cartridge: A container holding the liquid ink used by inkjet printers.
Quick Revision Points
- A printer is a hardware output device.
- Printers are broadly classified as Impact or Non-Impact.
- Dot-matrix is an example of an impact printer, known for being noisy but good for carbon copies.
- Inkjet and Laser printers are non-impact printers.
- Inkjet printers spray ink and are great for color photos.
- Laser printers use toner and are very fast, producing high-quality text.
- Printer quality is measured in DPI, and speed is measured in PPM.
Extra Practice Questions
- Why are dot-matrix printers still used in some businesses today?
- What is the main difference between toner and an ink cartridge?
- If you need to print a high-volume of text-based documents quickly, which type of printer would be the most suitable choice and why?
- Explain the role of the laser in a laser printer’s printing process.
- What factors would you consider when choosing a printer for home use versus for a large office?
