Input devices

Input devices

1. Keyboards

   • Input text, numbers, and instructions into the computer
     • AD- its easy to do verification checks as data is entered as it appears on the screen immediately.
       • DA- users with restricted arm use find keyboards difficult to use.

2. Numeric keypads

   • Used to enter numbers only along with the most common mathematical functions.
     • AD- faster than a standard keyboards for entry of numeric data.
       • DA- its difficult to use since hey have small key and hard to enter text.

3. MOUSE

   • Can be used for opening, closing and minimising an application.
     • They can be used for grouping, moving and deleting files
       • AD- it can be faster to select an option using a mouse than with a keyboard
         • DA- they are easily damaged and the older ones can get clogged up with dirt.

4. TOUCHPADS

   • Has the same uses as a mouse
     • AD- faster to select an option than using a mouse
       • Quicker navigation in an application or the internet
         • They are built in to a laptop so they is no need for external mouse.
           • DA- can be more difficult to control a pointer compared to a mouse

5. TRACKERBALLS

   • Have the same pointing control as a mouse
     • They are used in applications where the user is restricted like RSI
       • AD- they do not need the same fine control like a mouse
         • People with a limited wrist find it easier to use.
           • DA- They are not supplied with a computer so they are more expensive.

6. REMOTE CONTROL

   • They are used in industrial applications to remotely control processes.
     • AD- They can operate devices from a distance which is useful for people with a disability.
       • DA- the signal between the remote and the device can easily be blocked.

7. JOYSTICKS

   • Video and computer gaming are usually controlled by a joystick
     • AD- it is easier to navigate around a screen using a joystick than a keyboard
       • DA- it is more difficult to control the on-screen pointer with a joystick than with oher devices such as a mouse.

8. TOUCH SCREENS

   • Used for self-service tills, PDA's, smartphones and sat-navs
     • AD- faster entry of opinions than a keyboard and a mouse
       • User friendly and no training required.
         • DA- There is a limited number of options available.
           • They get dirty easily from constant touching.

9. Magnetic strip readers

   • Credit and debit cards have these so they can be used at the ATM's.
     • AD- data entry is very fast compared to keying in information
       • They can prevent access to restricted areas
         • DA- they are affected by a string magnetic field or over use, data can be lost.

10. SMART CARD READER

    • Loyalty cards, ID cards and public transport passes
      • Used to track customer or passenger movement including passports
        • AD- often used instead of money reducing theft and loss.
          • Data is more secure since its easy to copy information since cloning does not work as well with chips
            • DA- if the card is lost the information could be used fro identity theft, and can still be cloned using specific technologies

11. CHIP AND PIN READERS

    • Used where payments are made using cards
      • AD- They provide a more secure payment system than requiring a signature
        • DA- since the customer types in the pin, they need to make sure no one else reads it