2. Input and output devices

Keyboards

Keyboards are used to input data into application software

Also used to for typing commands to the computer (CTRL + P)

Numeric Keypads

A numeric keypad is used to enter numbers only Although some have function key to allow input of alphabetical characters

Mouse

An example of a pointing device

Touchpad

Touchpads are used in many laptop computers as a pointing device

The pointer is controlled by the user moving their nger on the touchpad

Tracker Ball

Tracker ball is like a mouse except that it has a ball on the top of the device - Used in applications where the user has a disability (RSI)

Remote Control

A remote control is used to control the operation of other devices remotely by using infra-red signals

Joystick

By gripping the stick, a pointer on the screen can be controlled (video games)

Touch Screen

User can choose an option by simply touching a button/icon on the screen

Scanners

Used to input information on hardcopy e.g. text document

Used to scan in documents and convert them

dis: quality is limited

Digital Cameras

Photographs are stored in memory

They can be easily transferred to a computer using a USB