Input Devices in Computing

Study Notes

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.

Description

This quiz explores the various input devices used to send data into computer systems. From keyboards to scanners, understand how users interact with technology to input information. Test your knowledge of these essential components of computing!