Know Your Computer

INPUT


Examples of Input Devices

Keyboard

Keyboard is the most common input device of a computer. Pressing the keys on the keyboard sends messages to the computer. It consists of number keys which send numerical information, letter keys which send text information, and additional function keys for control purposes.

 

Mouse

Mouse is a popular input device. You move it across the desk and its movement is shown on the screen by a marker known as a cursor. You will need to click the buttons at the top of the mouse to select an option. With this "point and click" device, you can move data around on the screen and send commands to the computer.

Joystick

Joystick is a rotary lever, similar to an aircraft's control stick. It enables you to move within the screen's environment and is widely used for computer games.

Digitizing Tablet

Digitizing Tablet is a pointing device that facilitates the accurate input of drawings and designs. A drawing can be placed directly on the tablet, and the user traces outlines or inputs coordinate positions with a hand-held stylus.

Touch Sensitive Screen

Touch Sensitive Screen is a pointing device that enables the user to interact with the computer by touching the screen. There are three forms of touch screens: pressure-sensitive, capacitive surface and light beam.

Light Pen

Light Pen is a pointing device shaped like a pen and is connected to a VDU (Visual Display Unit). The tip of the light pen contains a light-sensitive element which, when placed against the screen, detects the light from the screen enabling the computer to identify the location of the pen on the screen.