Input-Output Interface is used to transfer data between the internal storage of a computer (memory) and external peripheral devices. Peripheral devices provide input to and output from the computer, and are therefore also called Input-Output devices.
For example, devices like a keyboard and mouse provide input to the computer, while a monitor and printer provide output. Some devices, such as external hard drives, can perform both input and output operations.
In a microcomputer-based system, peripheral devices are connected to the CPU through communication links. These links are necessary to manage the interaction between the CPU and peripheral devices efficiently.
The major differences are as follows:
- The nature of peripheral devices is electromagnetic and electro-mechanical. The nature of the CPU is electronic. There is a lot of difference in the mode of operation of both peripheral devices and CPU.
- There is also a synchronization mechanism because the data transfer rate of peripheral devices are slow than CPU.
- In peripheral devices, data code and formats are differ from the format in the CPU and memory.
- The operating mode of peripheral devices are different and each may be controlled so as not to disturb the operation of other peripheral devices connected to CPU.
There is a special need of the additional hardware to resolve the differences between CPU and peripheral devices to supervise and synchronize all input and output devices.
Functions of Input-Output Interface:
- It is used to synchronize the operating speed of CPU with respect to input-output devices.
- It selects the input-output device which is appropriate for the interpretation of the input-output signal.
- It is capable of providing signals like control and timing signals.
- In this data buffering can be possible through data bus.
- There are various error detectors.
- It converts serial data into parallel data and vice-versa.
- It also convert digital data into analog signal and vice-versa.