ICT Input Devices: Keyboard Technology

ICT Input Devices: Keyboard Technology

• Keyboards are the most common input devices for text entry.
• Mechanical keyboards use physical keys, typically employing mechanical switches.
• These switches offer tactile feedback and distinct actuation points, contributing to a better typing experience.
• Membranes keyboards are frequently used in laptops.
• These keyboards are more affordable and compact.
• Modern keyboards use variations such as ergonomic layout for reduced strain, and multi-function keys for advanced commands.
• Keyboards often incorporate anti-ghosting technology to ensure multiple keys are properly registered simultaneously.
• Key scan technology and internal circuitry translate keystrokes into digital signals for processing.
• Different layouts cater to varying language and cultural needs.
• Keyboards vary in layouts across languages, with differing key positions and combinations for specific needs.

ICT Input Devices: Mouse Types and Functions

• A mouse is a pointing device that controls the cursor on a screen, directing user interaction.
• Optical mice track movement by using a light source and sensors, responding to the reflection of light off surfaces.
• Mechanical mice use a ball mechanism for tracking on a surface, often producing more noise and slower response, albeit cheaper.
• Laser mice are high precision, more accurately tracking movement on various surfaces and with a greater field of view.
• Touchpads are small, flat rectangular surfaces incorporated into laptops or tablets, allowing users to interact with devices using finger gestures.
• Touchscreens directly accept input via touch, common in mobile devices and interactive displays.
• Wireless mice communicate with the computer wirelessly, usually over radio frequencies or Bluetooth.
• Ergonomic mice are designed to promote comfortable positioning and reduce strain during prolonged usage, offering different shapes and grips.

ICT Input Devices: Scanners and Imaging Devices

• Scanners convert images or printed documents into digital files readable by computers.
• Flatbed scanners are widespread due to their convenience and ability to scan documents of various sizes.
• Handheld scanners have a smaller form factor and allow easy scanning of documents or materials of differing sizes.
• 3D scanners capture data from different angles, creating detailed 3D models of objects.
• Digital cameras are used for still image capture and are versatile for use in other situations as well.
• Webcams, used for video capture, are less expensive than high end cameras and provide affordable video options.
• Optical character recognition (OCR) software can convert scanned documents into editable text.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses powerful magnetic fields to produce detailed medical images of the inside of the body.