The IPO Cycle stands for Input, Process, and Output. It describes the steps that a computer uses to process data.
Input (I): This is the data or instructions provided to the computer. It involves collecting raw data or commands from an input device. For example, clicking a mouse button is an action that provides information or an instruction to the computer, thus it is categorized as input.
Process (P): This involves the computer analyzing and utilizing the information it receives. It is the internal operation where the computer processes the input data to produce useful information. An example of this is solving a math problem inside the computer , which is the action of the computer performing calculations or logical operations.
Output (O): This is the result generated by the computer after processing the input. It involves displaying or producing the outcome to an output device. For instance, playing a sound through speakers is the action of producing sound after the computer has processed data, and hence, it is considered output.
The IPO Cycle is fundamental in understanding how computers function and how they manage to transform raw data into meaningful information.