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Glite Dictionary
IO device

IO device

4.6
A machine like a keyboard or monitor that sends data into and out of a computer
  • noun
  • /ˈaɪˈoʊ dɪˈvaɪs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : dispositivo de E/S
  • The IO device is essential for data transfer.

Examples

  • The keyboard is a common IO device used to enter commands into a computer.

  • You must connect an IO device for data transfer to work.

  • Technicians tested each IO device before installing them on the network.

  • Can you connect the IO device to the computer?

  • The new external IO device allows users to quickly transfer data between their computer and external drives.

  • I connected an IO device to the laptop to enhance its ability to read and write data.

  • This IO device enables the printer to receive data directly from the computer.

Synonyms

I/O device
vsIO device
  • Specialized
3.7

A machine like a keyboard or printer that moves information between a computer and a user

is equipment that allows input or output but not necessarily both
input/output device
vsIO device
  • Specialized
3.8

A device that takes information into a computer and sends information out, like a printer or touchscreen

is a more general term that may mean input output or both

Surface Forms

IO device singular
IO devices plural

Morphology

IO + device

The meaning is directly compositional: IO (input/output) + device = a device for inputting and outputting data, so a learner who knows the constituents can derive the sense. Note, though, that 'IO' is a technical abbreviation often absent from general dictionaries, so it may be unfamiliar to many B1 learners unless they have some computing vocabulary.

Etymology

IO device comes from the letters I and O, which stand for 'input' and 'output'. Think of a door where information goes into or out of a computer, so an IO device is a piece of equipment that lets data enter or leave the machine.