Input Devices
Range of Devices
By "input device" is meant the physical method through which the user interacts with the computer. There are a variety of input devices. Here are some of the more common:
- QUERTY keyboard
- Mouse
- Roller-trackerball
- Infrared pointer
- Concept keyboard
- Voice recognition
- Touchscreen
- Dataglove
Solutions are also available for users with special needs.
Touchscreens
When using touchscreens, buttons (active points on the screen which respond to being pressed) should be larger than usual in home-computer programs. A finger is a less exact pointer than the cursor directed by mouse or trackerball.
Advice should be given on the cleaning of touchscreens. This advice should conform with manufacturers' recommendations.
Some users tend to slide their finger off screen buttons. Depending on how the software has been programmed, this action may not result in a response from the button.
Points about language and feedback moving over buttons being different...