ITCS-InputDevices-P2
Input Devices
Introduction to Input Devices
Input devices are the hardware components used to enter data and instructions into a computer. They act as a medium between the user and the computer system.
The data entered through input devices is processed by the CPU and converted into meaningful information.
Examples of input devices include keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone, webcam, joystick, touchpad and touchscreen.
Mouse
A mouse is a pointing input device used to control the movement of the cursor on the computer screen.
Use:- Selecting objects and files
- Opening programs
- Dragging and dropping items
- Drawing and designing
When the mouse is moved, sensors detect the movement and send signals to the computer. The cursor on the screen moves accordingly.
Keyboard
A keyboard is the most commonly used input device. It is used to enter text, numbers and commands into a computer.
Use:- Typing documents
- Entering data
- Executing commands
- Using shortcut keys
When a key is pressed, the keyboard sends an electronic signal to the computer. The computer identifies the key and performs the corresponding action.
Types of Keys on a Keyboard
| Type of Key | Description |
|---|---|
| Typing Keys | Used to type letters A to Z and digit keys 0 to 9. |
| Numeric Keys | Used to enter numbers or cursor movements. |
| Function Keys | Keys from F1 to F12 used for special functions. |
| Control Keys | Keys such as Enter, Shift, Ctrl, Alt and Esc, they provide cursor or screen control. Also includes the arrow keys. |
| Special Purpose Keys | Keys like enter, shift, capslock, num lock, spacebar, etc. |
Joystick
A joystick is a pointing device consisting of a stick that can be moved in different directions.
Use:- Playing computer games
- Flight simulation
- Controlling machines and robots
When the stick is moved, sensors detect the direction and send signals to the computer for corresponding actions.
Microphone
A microphone is an input device used to enter sound into a computer.
Use:- Voice recording
- Online meetings
- Voice commands
- Video creation
The microphone converts sound waves into digital signals which are processed by the computer.
Scanner
A scanner is an input device used to convert printed documents and images into digital form.
Use:- Scanning photographs
- Digitizing documents
- Creating electronic copies of records
The scanner uses light to capture images from paper and converts them into digital data.
Webcam
A webcam is an input device used to capture images and videos in real time.
Use:- Video conferencing
- Online classes
- Live streaming
- Recording videos
The webcam captures visual images through its lens and sends them to the computer as digital data.
Touchscreen
A touchscreen is an input device that allows users to interact directly with the display screen using fingers or a stylus.
Use:- Smartphones
- Tablets
- ATM machines
- Information kiosks
The screen detects touch and sends the touch location to the computer, which performs the selected action.
Touchpad
A touchpad is a flat touch-sensitive surface commonly found on laptops.
Use:- Moving the cursor
- Clicking and selecting items
- Scrolling pages
The touchpad detects the movement of fingers on its surface and converts it into cursor movement on the screen.