Explain two categories of computer input/output devices in respect to data transfer. (4 marks)DICT MOD 1 July 2020

Computer input/output (I/O) devices are devices that allow a computer to communicate with the outside world by transferring data in and out of the system. There are several categories of I/O devices, and they can be classified according to various criteria, such as the type of data transfer they support. Here are two categories of I/O devices in respect to data transfer:

1. Serial I/O devices: These are devices that transfer data one bit at a time over a single communication channel. Serial I/O devices are typically slower than parallel I/O devices, but they are simpler to implement and can be used over longer distances. Examples of serial I/O devices include serial ports and USB devices.
2. Parallel I/O devices: These are devices that transfer data multiple bits at a time over multiple communication channels. Parallel I/O devices are typically faster than serial I/O devices, but they are more complex to implement and are limited by the distance they can cover. Examples of parallel I/O devices include parallel ports and printers.