Input Devices and their Uses
Input Devices and their Uses
Keyboards
- A keyboard is a primary input device used to enter data into a computer or other device.
- Every key on a keyboard represents a specific letter, number, or symbol, which is used to input commands or text into a computer.
- Special function keys like Ctrl, Alt, and Shift provide additional input options.
Mouse
- A mouse is a pointing device that detects two-dimensional motion relative to the surface it’s moved on.
- The movement of the mouse translates into the movement of a cursor on the screen.
- Clicking the buttons on the mouse allows for selection and manipulation of on-screen objects.
Microphone
- A microphone allows for audio input into a computer.
- It’s used in a variety of applications, including voice recognition, video conferencing, and recording sound or speech.
Scanners
- A scanner digitises physical documents or images, turning them into digital data that a computer can read and manipulate.
- Common types of scanners include flatbed scanners and document-fed scanners.
- Scanners are used to digitise printed photos, text documents, and even three-dimensional objects.
Webcam
- A webcam is used to input video data into a computer.
- It’s often used for video conferencing, streaming, and video recording.
- Modern webcams often include a built-in microphone for audio input as well.
Touchscreen
- A touchscreen is a display that also serves as an input device.
- Some touchscreens can detect and respond to the touch of one or more fingers or a special stylus or pen.
- Touchscreens are commonly found in smartphones, tablets, and some computers.
Remember, an input device refers to any hardware or peripheral device that allows users to input, or feed, data or instructions into a computer. This data could be in the form of text, images, audio, or tactile feedback. The computer then processes this data.