cs 110 module 3

Module 3: Input and Output: Entering Data and Producing Information

Module Objectives

By the end of this module, you should be able to:

  • Differentiate between input and output

  • Identify manual input devices

  • Identify digital input devices

  • Identify physical output methods

  • Identify digital output methods

  • Identify uses of various assistive technology input and output methods

  • Explain how to customize and manage input and output devices

  • Identify e-waste risks and strategies

Input and Output

How Do You Use Input?

  • Data is a collection of unprocessed items, including text, numbers, images, audio, and video.

  • Several options are employed to input data and instructions into a computer.

  • A command is an instruction that causes a program or app to perform a specific action.

  • Programs and apps respond to commands issued by a user.

  • A user response is an instruction that a user issues by responding to messages displayed by a program or app. This response instructs the program or app to perform certain actions.

How Do You Use Output?

  • Output varies depending on the hardware and software being used as well as the user's requirements.

  • There are four basic types of output:
      1. Text: Text messages, emails, memos, books, etc.
      2. Graphics: Photos, clip art, charts, GIFs, etc.
      3. Audio: Sporting events, radio, audio clips, news, music, etc.
      4. Video: Movies, weather conditions, live performances, etc.

Manual Input

Overview

  • A manual input device allows direct data entry into the device.

  • Keyboards and pointing devices are traditional types of manual input devices.

  • Keyboards enable typing of text or commands, while pointing devices allow selections on the screen.

  • Keyboards typically include a typing area, function keys, toggle keys, and navigation keys. Many also feature media control buttons, Internet control buttons, and other special keys.

Function Keys

  • Function keys are labeled with the letter "F" followed by a number and are programmed to issue commands to a computer.

  • A toggle key alternates views or turns features on and off with each press, examples include Caps Lock and Num Lock.

  • Users can move the insertion point in applications using navigation keys (arrow keys, Page Up/Pg Up, Page Down/Pg Dn).

  • A keyboard shortcut is a key or combination of keys that accesses a feature to perform a command.

Using Pointing Devices

  • In a graphical user interface, a pointer is a small symbol that changes shape based on the task being performed, the application, and the pointer’s location.

  • A pointing device enables selection of text, graphics, and other objects (buttons, icons, links, commands).

Types of Pointing Devices
Mouse

  • A mouse fits under the palm of a hand and has a flat bottom containing a mechanism that detects movement.
      - Optical mouse utilizes optical sensors.
      - Touch mouse recognizes touch.
      - Laser mouse employs laser sensors.
      - Ergonomic mouse reduces discomfort associated with repetitive strain injuries (RSIs).

Touchpad

  • A touchpad is a small, flat, rectangular device sensitive to pressure and motion, commonly found on laptops and convertible tablets.

  • Many touchpads recognize touch gestures (swipes, pinches, stretching motions).

Touch Screen Gestures

  • Touch screen gestures allow interaction with devices via finger movements.
      Examples include:
      - Tap: Quickly touch and release one finger to activate links, press buttons, or run apps.
      - Double Tap: Quickly touch and release twice to zoom in.
      - Press and Hold: Hold one finger on an object for action or a shortcut menu.
      - Drag/Slide: Press and hold on an object and move it to a new location.
      - Scroll: Move finger across the screen to navigate.
      - Stretch: Move two fingers apart to zoom in.
      - Pinch: Move two fingers together to zoom out.

Modern Touch-Enabled Devices

  • Touch-enabled monitors and screens facilitate direct interaction with the operating system without traditional input devices like keyboards or mice.

  • Devices utilizing touch input include:
      - Monitors and screens for computers, tablets, smartphones
      - Wearable devices, portable media players, digital cameras, kiosks, navigation systems

Digital Input

Voice Input

  • Voice input is the process of entering data by speaking into a microphone, which may be built into the device or as an external peripheral.

  • A voice recognition app allows dictation of text and instructions via speech.

  • Mobile devices often feature speech-to-text that recognizes spoken words for text entry in various applications.

Audio Input

  • Audio input encompasses capturing sounds such as speech, music, and sound effects into a computer.

  • To enter high-quality audio, a sound card or integrated sound capability is required.

  • Music production software allows recording, composing, mixing, and editing music and sounds.

Video Input

  • Video input entails capturing full-motion images stored on a computer or cloud.

  • A digital video (DV) camera records video as digital signals that can transfer to a computer.

  • A webcam captures video, still images, and audio for viewing/manipulation.

  • Steps for using DV technology include:
      1. Select a DV camera.
      2. Record a video.
      3. Transfer and manage videos.
      4. Edit a video.
      5. Enhance a video.
      6. Distribute a video.

Special Effects and Motion Input

  • Special effects in video can include warping, color changes, morphing, and zoom transitions.

  • Motion input allows movement of on-screen elements using air gestures via motion-sensing devices.

  • These devices can also detect gestures and facial movements.

Applications of Motion Input
Entertainment

  • Motion-sensing controllers permit gameplay with real-life movements (e.g., sports simulation).

Medical Field

  • Used for training simulations. Allows surgeons to practice with less invasiveness.

Military Applications

  • Utilized in training scenarios for flight simulations and rehabilitation for soldiers.

Sports Training

  • Used for performance enhancement and to correct ineffective motions; combines input from athletes with algorithms for performance improvement.

Scanners and Reading Devices
Near-Field Communication (NFC)

  • NFC retrieves data from other devices or items, enabling contactless data transfer.

Optical Scanner

  • An optical scanner reads printed text/graphics, translating them into a computable form. Its resolution determines its quality, related to bits stored per pixel and pixels per inch.

  • Optical character recognition (OCR) devices read printed characters in specific fonts, while optical mark recognition (OMR) devices capture hand-drawn marks.

Bar Code Reader

  • A bar code reader employs lasers to read bar codes, which consist of vertical lines and spaces or two-dimensional patterns. A QR code is a type of 2-D barcode that encodes information in two directions.

RFID Technology

  • Radio frequency identification (RFID) uses radio signals to communicate with tags on objects, and an RFID reader interprets that data using radio waves.

Magstripe Reader

  • A magstripe reader accesses data on magnetic stripes found on cards.

  • MICR (magnetic ink character recognition) reads magnetized ink characters, essential for banking processing of checks.

Data Collection Device

  • This device captures data at transaction sites (e.g., restaurants, grocery stores, warehouses) and can wirelessly transmit data over networks.

Physical Output

Hard Copy vs. Soft Copy

  • Hard copy refers to printed information which is permanent, while soft copy is displayed electronically.

  • Hard copies can be in portrait or landscape orientation:
      - Portrait is typical for letters and reports.
      - Landscape suits spreadsheets and presentations.

Non-Impact Printers

  • Non-impact printers create textual or graphic images without contacting paper. Examples include:
      - Inkjet Printers: spray liquid ink onto paper; versatile for various paper types.
      - Photo Printers: produce high-quality lab-standard photos, often using inkjet technology.
      - Laser Printers: use laser technology for high-quality outputs, processing an entire page image before printing.
      - All-in-One Printers: combine multiple functionalities into one device (printer, scanner, copier).
      - 3-D Printers & Thermal Printers: utilize additive manufacturing and heat respectively.
      - Label Printers & Plotters: specialize in creating labels or high-quality graphic prints.

Printed Output from Inkjet Printers

  • An inkjet printer's mechanism involves cartridges with multiple nozzles providing precision in color prints.

  • Different models serve varying printing needs, including photo-quality outputs.

Printed Output from Laser Printers

  • Laser printers offer high-speed print capabilities with superior resolution using powdered toner and laser technology.

Additive Manufacturing with 3-D Printers

  • A 3-D printer constructs physical objects layer by layer, suitable for practical applications such as prosthetics and prototype development.

High-Performance Printing Solutions

  • Plotters: designed for high-resolution drawings and graphics, often used in professional settings for architectural plans.

Label Printers

  • Label printers specialize in printing on adhesive materials. They are also capable of generating barcodes.

Digital Output

Overview of Output Devices

  • A display device visually conveys text, graphics, and video.

  • Soft copy of information is temporary and displayed electronically.

Types of Displays

  • LCD and LED displays use liquid crystals and light-emitting diodes, respectively, to create images. LED displays are more efficient, consuming less power. OLED displays provide high-quality visuals without a backlight.

  • Resolution and size affect the quality of video displays.

  • Response time is critical, indicating how quickly a display can refresh.

Display Measurement & Quality

  • Brightness is measured in nits; dot pitch conveys pixel density affecting clarity of text and images. Contrast ratio reflects the disparity between light and dark outputs.

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

  • The GPU, integrated on a motherboard or on a video card, handles graphics manipulation and output.

  • Various video standards help define display properties, influencing presentation quality.

High-Definition Displays

  • Smart TVs are capable of streaming, playing online games, and more, while Ultra-High-Definition (UHD) televisions enhance picture definition.

  • Users amplify audio using external speakers, surround sound systems, or headphones with noise-canceling features.

  • Data projectors display content for larger audiences, while interactive whiteboards enable user interaction with displayed content.

Gaming and Motion-Sensing Devices

  • Devices like joysticks and gamepads equip users to engage in games and simulations, often enhanced with force feedback technology.

Ethics and Issues: Assistive Technology Input and Output

Adaptive Devices for Accessibility

  • The goal of assistive technology is to empower all users, regardless of disabilities, to access technological services independently.

  • Adaptive Input Devices for users with disabilities include:
      - Eye gaze pointing devices that track where users look.
      - Foot mice for users with limited hand mobility.
      - Sip-and-puff technology for users to control devices through inhaling or exhaling.

Adaptive Output Devices

  • Refreshable Braille displays translate digital text into Braille format.

  • Braille printers produce tangible Braille copies.

  • OCR readers digitize printed materials for voice output from screen readers or Braille printing.

Customize and Manage Input and Output Devices

Customization Basics

  • Default settings control initial appearances and document setups on devices.

  • Commonly considered customizations include:
      - Adjusting screen brightness.
      - Changing the desktop theme.
      - Modifying screen resolution.
      - Updating sound schemes.
      - Pinning frequently used apps to the taskbar.

System Software Customization

  • Users can manage input and output device settings using options to control and customize pointing devices, adjust language settings on keyboards, and create keyboard shortcuts.

Secure IT: Reduce E-Waste Risks

Minimization Strategies

  • Every electronic device emits some radiation. Following suggestions can reduce potential risks:
      - Replace outdated equipment (e.g., CRTs with LCDs).
      - Maintain a safe distance from monitors.
      - Shield oneself from radiation exposure by using protective devices.
      - Reduce wireless connections and turn off devices not in use.
      - Consider recycling or donating older devices to minimize environmental impact.