This document discusses different techniques for transferring data between input/output (I/O) devices and the central processing unit (CPU). It describes programmed I/O, interrupt-driven I/O, and direct memory access (DMA). Programmed I/O involves the CPU continuously checking I/O device status, wasting CPU time. Interrupt-driven I/O improves efficiency by allowing devices to interrupt the CPU when ready. DMA is most efficient as it transfers data directly between memory and I/O devices without using the CPU, which then regains control after the transfer.