A computer device, such as a
CD-ROM drive or
printer, that is not part of the essential computer, i.e., the
memory and
microprocessor. Peripheral devices can be external -- such as a
mouse,
keyboard,
printer,
monitor, external
Zip drive or
scanner -- or internal, such as a
CD-ROM drive,
CD-R drive or internal
modem. Internal peripheral devices are often referred to as
integrated peripherals. Also see
I/O.