- The devices, which are attached to the main computer machine are called as computer peripherals.
- A peripheral device is defined as a computer device, such as a keyboard or printer, that is not part of the essential computer (i.e., the memory and microprocessor). These auxiliary devices are intended to be connected to the computer and used.
- Peripheral devices can be external or internal.
- Examples of external peripherals include mouse, keyboard, printer, monitor, external Zip drive or scanner.
- Examples of internal peripherals include CD-ROM drive, CD-R drive or internal modem.
- Today's new devices, such as tablets, smartphones and wearable computing devices are considered peripherals as they can be connected and used on a computer system.
- The difference, however, is that these devices can run independently of the computer system.
