What is an input device?
hardware device that allows a user to enter data or instructions into a computer directly
Sends but doesn’t receive data from another device.
Name two advantages of using a keyboard.
- Fast entry of new text into a document
- Easy to use for most people
Verification checks can be done as data is entered.
Name two disadvantages of using a keyboard.
- Can be difficult to use if the user has limited arm/wrist use
- Fairly large device that uses up valuable desk space
Slow method compared to direct data entry.
What is a numeric keypad used for?
Faster entry of numeric data
Small devices, easy to carry around.
Name two disadvantages of a numeric keypad.
- Sometimes have small keys which can make input more difficult
- The order of the numbers on the keypad is not intuitive
Faster than standard keyboards when entering numeric data.
What is the primary advantage of using a mouse?
Faster for choosing an option than a keyboard
Quick way of navigating through applications.
Name two disadvantages of using a mouse.
- Difficult for people with restricted hand/wrist movement
- Easy to damage
Does not need a large desk area compared to a keyboard.
What is a driving wheel primarily used for?
More realistic control for steering movements
Easier to control steering compared to keyboard.
Name two disadvantages of a driving wheel.
- Expensive input device compared to a mouse
- Movements tend to be over-sensitive
More realistic than mouse and joystick.
What is a touchscreen?
A device that allows for faster entry of options than using a keyboard or mouse
User-friendly method – no training necessary.
Name two disadvantages of using a touchscreen.
- Limited number of input options available
- Can lead to problems when used frequently (e.g., RSI)
The screen can get very dirty with constant touching.
What is the primary function of a scanner?
To digitize images for editing or storage
Can recover damaged documents and photographs.
Name two advantages of using a digital camera.
- Higher-quality photographs than traditional cameras
- Memory cards can store thousands of photos
Faster and simpler to upload photos to computers.
What is a microphone used for?
Quicker for converting text compared to typing
Enhances safety in voice activation systems.
Name two disadvantages of using a microphone.
- Sound files consume a lot of computer memory
- Voice-recognition software may be less accurate than manual typing
Real-time manipulation of sound using specialized software.
What is the role of a sensor?
Inputs data to a computer based on continuously changing physical quantities
Requires an analogue to digital converter (ADC).
Name two advantages of using sensors.
- More accurate readings
- Continuous monitoring without breaks
Enables immediate action due to continuous monitoring.
What does RFID stand for?
Radio Frequency Identification
Used to read and capture information stored on a tag.
Name two uses of RFID readers.
- Livestock tracking
- Retail for automatic checkout
Enables fast entry at theme parks.
Name two advantages of using barcode readers.
- Faster than keying in data manually
- Fewer mistakes are made
Allows for automatic stock control.
What is the primary function of an Optical Mark Reader (OMR)?
Reads marks written in pen/pencil on a form
Used for questionnaires and multiple-choice examination papers.
Name two disadvantages of using OMR.
- Forms require precise design for accurate marking
- Issues arise if forms are incorrectly filled out
Fast input method for survey results.
What is the primary function of an Optical Character Reader (OCR)?
Converts text on hard copy documents into an electronic form
Used for processing passports and ID’s.
Name two disadvantages of using OCR.
- Difficulty reading some handwriting
- Not very accurate
Faster data entry than manually keying in data.
