Input Device

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1. Bar Code Reader

   • Uses lasers to read light reflected from black and white lines. The binary code represents product information stored on a database
   • It is a fast input method and also an accurate one. However, Data on the barcode cannot be edited

2. Digital Camera

   • Light is focused via the lens onto a sensor which is made up of a grid of tiny light sensitive photosites. The image is stored digitally on a memory card. The image is often compressed and stored in a standardised format.
   • It can be modified using design applications and there is a lot of flexibility. Image files can however, take up a lot of storage and quality of output depends on quality of printer and paper

3. MICR

   • Data is printed in the form of specialised characters . The ink used contains a magnetic substance. This can then be read by a sensitive input device. Software then translates the patterns into text/numerical values
   • MICR is quick and highly efficient at processing cheques, humans as well as machines can make use of the data, it is resistant to forgery. However, it only has limited applications

4. Pointing Devices

   • Allows the user to communicate a wide range of commands to the computer. Mouse ball sends positional information which is translated into the movements of the pointer on screen
   • GUI requires pointing devices, their use is likely to continue. However, experts tend to use keyboard shortcuts and some people struggle with hand-eye cordination

5. Keyboard

   • The keyboard translates selections into digital format text/number values. Contains a number of function keys which allows the user to send instructions to the computer
   • It is the most common method of inputting text. However, transcription errors are frequent, data entry is time consuming and can lead to RSI

6. Smart Cards

   • Magnetic strip stores encoded data about the card. A mondex chip is used to store the data. When the card is swiped, it is translated into data which can be processed by a computer
   • Cards are increasingly used for financial transactions. Smart cards contain more data and are more robust and secure. However, the card can be stolen