Step 1: Softcopy vs Hardcopy
A hard copy is a document printed on paper and a soft copy is an electronic document that is in a digital form, e.g. stored on USB drives or displayed on a screen, etc.

Step 2: Screens and Projectors
Screens and projectors are both output devices that give us a softcopy.
– Let’s take a look at how different screen and projector technologies work by watching the following:
– How CRT Screens Work
– How LCD Screens Work
– How LCD Projectors Work

Step 3: Printers and Plotters
Printers and plotters give us a hardcopy of our work.

Let’s take a look at some different printing technologies. While you’re watching these videos think about the possible uses of each device.
– Turn your speakers on full and now watch: The Dot Matrix Printer in Action. That was pretty noisy, wasn’t it?  This printer is very noisy because it is an impact printer. Do a Google search to find out more about ‘impact printers’ and ‘non-impact printers’.
– Watch: Inkjet and Laser Printers
– Watch: The Pen Plotter

Step 4: What have I learnt?
– Try this online exercise on the visual output devices we have been looking at.
– Try Activity 8: Visual Output Devices (Refer to ‘Activity Sheet L4 & 5.pdf’ in the resource section)
– Check your answers to Activity 8 using the Answer Sheet available in the resource section.

Go Further!
– Types of TV Screens
– Choosing between an inkjet and a laser printer

Well done! Now you are ready for the sixth lesson in this topic: Input & Output Devices – Lesson 6: Assistive Technology