Input Devices in Computing

Input Devices Overview

• Input devices allow users to send data, signals, or messages into a computer system.
• Interaction is required from users, which may involve typing, clicking, speaking, writing, swiping, or scanning.

Keyboard

• A keyboard enables users to enter textual data and instructions by pressing labeled keys.

Mouse

• A handheld device controlling an onscreen pointer, used for making selections and moving items.
• Often considered the primary pointing device for computers.

Trackpoint

• A small, knob-shaped device located between keyboard keys on portable computers for pointer control.
• Operated by moving a fingertip on the knob, resembling a pencil eraser.

Touchpad

• A flat surface commonly found on laptops that detects finger movement to control screen pointers.
• Allows users to glide fingers on the surface for navigation.

Trackerball (Trackball)

• An inverted mouse featuring a ball on top that is rotated by fingers or palm.
• Controls screen pointer movement through the rotation of the ball.

Joystick

• A device used to control the screen pointer by maneuvering an upright rod.
• Primarily utilized in video gaming and simulation systems like flight training programs.

Light Pen

• A handheld input device used to select objects on a display screen by pointing directly at it.
• Enables users to move a pointer and choose items on the screen.

Scanner

• Converts paper-based images or documents into digital formats for editing and manipulation.
• Operates by using a beam of light that reflects off the document, recorded as binary digits or bitmaps.
• Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software can convert scanned documents into editable text.

Graphics Tablet

• A digitizing pad that allows drawing on a flat surface using a stylus or special pen.
• Some models display drawings directly on the tablet, while others send them to a connected computer screen.

Barcode Reader

• An optical scanner that reads printed vertical lines (barcodes) representing numerical data.
• Used for identifying product pricing and managing stock control.

Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR)

• A device that reads characters printed with magnetic ink, commonly found on cheques.
• Facilitates the identification of account numbers in banking.

Optical Mark Reader (OMR)

• Scans marks made by a pencil on pre-printed forms, such as applications or exams.
• Quickly captures data by reading specifically placed dark marks without manual typing.

Touch Screens

• Electronic displays capable of detecting the location of touch within the display area.
• Can respond to fingers, hands, or styluses, and are commonly found in devices such as tablets, smartphones, and all-in-one computers.

Microphones (Mics)

• Used for recording or transmitting audio to computers and other systems.