Input Devices

Question 1

Mouse

Answer 1

Inputs clicks. Has two buttons and a central wheel to allow you to click or scroll. Uses built-in sensors to detect movement and send signals to computer.

Advantages
- Easy to use
- Ideal for use with desktop computers
- Gives user freedom of movement

Disadvantages
- Experienced users find it slow compared to using keyboard shortcuts
- They need a flat surface to use the mouse

Question 2

Microphone

Answer 2

Inputs sound. Microphones have diaphragms inside. When a sound wave hits it, the diaphragm moves back and forth. Movements are recorded as waves. Microphone can be wired/wireless.

Advantages
- Faster to enter text via speech rather than typing
- Hands free microphones allow users to carry out other activities at the same time

Disadvantages
- Sound files recording spoken words will be longer than a normal text file
- Words might not be recognised

Question 3

Graphic Digitiser

Answer 3

Consists of a flat surface on which you use a stylus to write/draw with. As you interact with the surface, it will control the cursor on the screen of the connected computer.

Advantages
- Greater accuracy for drawing than mouse
- Allows users to draw more naturally

Disadvantages
- Much more expensive than a mouse
- Image appears on a separate screen

Question 4

Touch Screen

Answer 4

Works by using your finger to touch the sensitive screen. Touching is detected and translated into instructions for the device. Device can detect the difference between tapping, scrolling or swiping.

Advantages
- Easy to use. Doesn’t need skills to use.
- Can be adapted for many users, e.g. airports, supermarkets

Disadvantages
- User needs to understand the icons used
- Easily damaged
- Difficult to see in bright light