Introduction
to Input Units
The Basics and Types of Input Devices
Input Units
Introduction to Input Units
1
Input units are the devices that allow users to interact
with a computer or digital system. They are the What are Input Units?
primary means of providing data and commands to the 2
system. Input units include devices like keyboards, mice,
touchpads, trackballs, joysticks, and more. These allow
How Input Units Work the user to enter text, navigate, select options, and
3
control various functions of the system.
Input units convert physical user actions into digital
signals that the computer can understand and process.
For example, when a key is pressed on a keyboard, the
keyboard sends a specific code to the computer to
indicate which key was pressed.
Common Input
Units
Examples of devices used for input.
Keyboard
1
Typing text, numbers, and symbols.
Mouse
2
Interacting with the graphical user interface.
Touchscreen
3
Interacting with the system by touching the screen.
Microphone
4
Converts sound into electrical signals.
Keyboards
A Keyboard is a primary input device with keys representing letters, numbers, and functions.
Description How it Works
Used for entering text, executing commands, and navigating within When a key is pressed, a signal is sent to the computer, which
software applications. interprets it based on the keyboard's layout and the system's
settings.
Keyboard Types
PC/PC-XT AT Keyboard PS/2 Keyboard Advanced AT
The standard keyboard Introduced with the IBM Introduced in the early
Keyboard
layout for most AT computer, this 1990s, similar to the AT An enhanced version of
personal computers, keyboard features 101 keyboard but uses a the AT keyboard with
featuring 101 or 104 keys and a PS/2 different connector. 104 to 107 keys, may
keys, including connector for include multimedia
alphanumeric keys, connecting to the keys, USB ports, or
function keys, and computer. other features.
special keys.
Magnetic Ink Character Recognition
(MICR)
Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) is a technology used to read characters printed with magnetic ink, enabling
automated processing of documents.
MICR offers several advantages, including speed, accuracy, and security. This technology reduces manual errors and
delays, streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency.
However, MICR has certain limitations. It requires specialized equipment for reading, and only specific fonts can be
recognized. Additionally, MICR is vulnerable to fraud if the magnetic ink is tampered with.
Optical Character Recognition (OCR)
Definition and Key Applications in Various Benefits and Challenges
Functionality Industries
OCR is a technology that converts OCR is used in various industries, OCR offers automation, accuracy, and
scanned images of text into machine- including banking for processing efficiency. However, it can struggle
readable text. It uses algorithms to checks, healthcare for digitizing with handwritten text, complex
recognize characters and convert medical records, and publishing for layouts, and low-quality images.
them into digital data that can be converting printed books into digital
edited and processed. formats.
QR Codes
What are QR Code
Benefits Potential
Reader?
Limitations
QR codes, short for Quick Response QR codes offer a secure way to share QR code readers rely heavily on
codes, are two-dimensional barcodes sensitive information by encrypting camera quality, proper lighting, and
that store various types of data within the code. scanning angles, and can struggle
information, such as website URLs, with damaged or distorted codes.
contact details, and text messages.
Bar Code Reader(BCR)
Explanation of BCR Technology
1
BCR is a technology that uses scanners to read barcodes, which are patterns of lines and spaces that represent
data. They have scanners that decode the barcode and convert it into digital information.
Types of Barcodes and Their Uses
2
There are various types of barcodes, including UPC, EAN, and QR codes, each with specific applications. UPC and
EAN are commonly used in retail for product identification, while QR codes are used for information sharing and
marketing.
Optical Mark Reader (OMR)
What is OMR?
OMR is a device capable of capturing human marked documents such as surveys and tests to a digital format. It
is a technology that automatically reads and interprets marks on paper.
Common Uses and
Limitations
OMR is commonly used for grading tests, analyzing surveys, and processing medical forms. OMR can produce
highly accurate results with minimal errors and is fully automated. But it requires strict formats as any deviation
can lead to errors and result in incorrect data.
Virtual Reality
What is Virtual Reality?
Virtual reality (VR) is a simulated experience that can replicate an actual environment or create an virtual
one. Using specialized headsets and controllers, VR transports users into digitally-rendered 3D worlds,
allowing them to interact with the virtual environment in a highly immersive and engaging way. VR
experiences are mostly solitary, which can lead to social isolation or a lack of real-world interaction during
prolonged use. Extended use of VR can cause motion sickness, eye strain, dizziness.
