Input device

File:Typing example.ogv

Dell KB522 keyboard with Russian layout

Kinesis-Contoured Keyboard Classic-2

Xerox Alto keyset

HTC Apache

Septambic key numbering

Input device is a hardware component used to provide data and control signals to an information processing system such as a computer or other information appliance. Examples of input devices include keyboards, mice, scanners, digital cameras, joysticks, and microphones. Input devices can be categorized based on their modality of input (e.g., mechanical, audio, visual) or their purpose (e.g., pointing devices, data entry devices, or specialized accessibility devices).

Types of Input Devices

Input devices are essential for interacting with computer systems and can be broadly classified into several categories:

Pointing Devices

• Mouse: A handheld device used to control the position of a cursor on the screen for pointing, selecting, dragging, and dropping.
• Touchpad: A stationary, touch-sensitive surface used to control the cursor position, often found on laptops.
• Trackball: Similar to a mouse, but the ball is rolled in a socket to move the cursor.
• Graphics tablet: A device that allows the user to draw by hand on a surface, capturing the drawing as digital input.

Text Input Devices

• Keyboard: A set of keys including letters, numbers, and function keys used for typing text and controlling the computer.
• Virtual keyboard: A software-based keyboard displayed on a touch screen, allowing for input by tapping on the screen.

Audio Input Devices

• Microphone: Converts sound into electrical signals for audio input, used for voice commands, voice recording, and VoIP calls.

Image and Video Input Devices

• Scanner: Converts physical documents and images into digital format.
• Digital camera: Captures photographs and videos in digital form.
• Webcam: A camera that captures and streams video in real-time, often used for video conferencing.

Gaming and Virtual Reality Input Devices

• Joystick: A handheld stick that pivots on a base and reports its angle or direction to the device it is controlling.
• Game controller: A device used with games or entertainment systems to provide input to a video game, typically featuring buttons and joysticks.
• Virtual reality headset: A head-mounted device that provides virtual reality for the wearer, often including motion tracking sensors.

Accessibility Input Devices

For users with disabilities, specialized input devices are available to facilitate interaction with computers:

• Adaptive keyboard: Keyboards designed with customizable keys and layouts for users with physical disabilities.
• Speech recognition software: Allows users to perform tasks and input text by speaking commands.
• Eye tracking: Technology that enables the computer to know exactly where the user is looking, allowing for control through eye movements.

Conclusion

Input devices play a crucial role in the interaction between users and computers, enabling efficient and effective communication of commands and data. The development and refinement of input devices continue to evolve, enhancing accessibility and user experience across various computing platforms.