Chapter 2: Input Devices

These flashcards cover the main concepts and details related to input devices, including definitions, advantages, disadvantages, and specific uses.

What is analogue data?

Data that is continuous and in waveform, which needs to be converted to be processed by a computer.

What is digital data?

Discrete data represented in form of 1s and 0s (binary) that can be processed by a computer without conversion.

What does ADC stand for and what is its purpose?

ADC stands for Analogue to Digital Converter, which converts analogue signals from devices like microphones into digital data.

Why does analogue data need to be converted to digital data?

To be read and processed by a computer.

What is DAC and where is it used?

DAC stands for Digital to Analogue Converter; it converts digital data from the computer into analogue signals for devices like speakers.

What are pointing devices?

Devices used to move and control an on-screen pointer or cursor.

What are some advantages of using a mouse?

Does not need a large desk area, faster to choose options compared to a keyboard.

What is a touchpad and what are its advantages?

A touchpad is a pointing device that offers faster option selection and takes up less physical space than a mouse.

What is the purpose of a tracker ball?

It is a pointing device that provides more accurate pointer positioning and is easier for users with disabilities.

What is a keyboard used for?

Fast entry of text and input of various data including text, numbers, and symbols.

What is the advantage of a numeric keypad?

It is easy to carry and faster than a keyboard for inputting numbers.

What is the disadvantage of using a remote control?

Objects between the device and remote can block operation, and it can be hard to use for individuals with hand mobility issues.

What are the advantages of a touchscreen?

It's a quick selection method, requires no training, and has a small footprint.

What are some uses of the microphone as an input device?

Input speech/sounds, enhance safety in voice-recognition systems, and convert voice into text.

What does Optical Character Reader (OCR) do?

Scans text from hard-copy documents for digital processing.

What are the advantages of using QR codes over barcodes?

QR codes can hold more data, be read from any angle, and are faster to scan.

What is RFID technology used for?

RFID is used for tracking, storing product details, and allows fast reading without line-of-sight.

What is the function of a magnetic stripe reader?

Reads information on the magnetic stripe of cards without typing.

What is a disadvantage of direct data entry devices?

If the technology fails, it may cause downtime or errors.

What are sensors used for?

Sensors measure physical properties of the environment and provide data to be processed.