Comparing the use of input and output methods and devices

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Comparing the use of input and output methods and devices

Inputs

Any device that is used to enter data into a computer system is called an input device. There are many different types of input device; each designed to provide an efficient method of data entry in particular circumstances. You will be able to work out from the strengths and weaknesses of each type of input device the sorts of jobs it would be suitable for. When choosing an input device, the following factors should be considered:

  •  The type of data to be input
  •  How quickly the data needs to be input
  •  The volume of data to be input
  •  How easily the person inputting the data will be able to use the device
  •  The amount of desk space the device will use (its ‘footprint’).

The following devices are input devices:

The keyboard is the most commonly used type of input device. It is often called a QWERTY keyboard after the arrangement of the letters on the top row. This arrangement of letters was first designed for use on mechanical typewriters and its purpose was to reduce the number of key jams when the typist was working quickly. Training is needed to use the

Keyboard effectively.

Some of the advantages and disadvantages of keyboards are as follows:

  •  Good for manual text entry.
  •  Special keys can be used for special functions.
  •  Hot key combinations can simplify tasks for expert users.
  •  Familiar device – even for novice users.
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  •  Mistakes easily made – even by trained users.
  •  Large footprint – takes up a lot of space on a desk.
  •  Data input is slow compared to many other devices.
  • Of limited use for moving, selecting and drawing.

As the mouse moves, it transmits data to the computer about the speed and direction in which

it is traveling. The computer usually represents this data by the position of a pointer on the

screen. As the mouse moves, so the pointer on the screen also moves. The user can select items on ...

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