Input devices

device Uses Advantages Disadvantage

s
Keyboard  Input of commands  Fast entry of new  Slow method when
into application text into a document compared to direct
software  Easy to use for most data entry
 Typing in commands people  Difficult to use if the
to the computer  Easier to do user has limited arm
verification checks or wrist use
as the data is  Fairly large device
entered that uses up
valuable desk space
Concept  This allows for fast
data entry
Keyboard  The keyboards are
waterproof
 In certain
applications, the
keyboards are
tamper resistant
preventing people
from keying in
information that
could potentially
corrupt the
computer system
  Fast entry of
numeric data into
spread sheet  Faster than standard  Sometimes have
Numeric Keypads  Automatic teller keyboard when small keys which
machines(ATM), entering numeric make input very
where customer can data difficult
key in information  Since many are  Sometimes the order
such as pin small devices they of the numbers on
 Point of sales are very easy to the keypad isn’t
(POS)terminal in carry around intuitive
case the barcode
reader fails to read
the barcode the
number has to be
typed in manually by
the operator
 In mobile phones to
allow mobile
numbers to be
keyed in
 Chip and pin devices
when paying by
debit or credit cards
Mouse  Opening, closing and  Doesn’t need a large  Can be difficult to
minimising software desk space when use for people with
 Grouping, moving compared to a restricted hand or
and deleting files keyboard wrist movement
 Image editing  Very fast way of  Easy to damage, the
 Controlling the choosing options older type of mouse
 position of the than a keyboard quickly becomes
pointer on the  Very quick to clogged up with dirt
screen to select navigate through  Difficult to use if no
options from the applications and the flat surface is readily
menu, scrolling up or internet available
down/right or left
Touch pad  Faster than a
keyboard for
choosing options
 Very quick to
navigate through
applications and the
internet
 Portable
 It is a big advantage
if no flat surface is
available