In computing, an input device is any peripheral (piece of computer hardware equipment) used to provide data and control signals to an information
processing system
such as a computer or other information
appliance. Examples
of input devices include keyboards, mice, scanners, digital cameras and joysticks.
Input Devices Before computers, the phrase "input device" probably
was not on the tip of anyone's tongue. It has a dry and impersonal sound, sorta
technical - rather like computer talk, don't you think? The phrase is easy to
define because a "device" is an instrument that performs a simple task.
"Input" is also easy - something put into a system. So in the
technology world... an input device is any tool that feeds data into a computer. For example, a keyboard is an input device, whereas a display monitor is an output device. Mice, trackballs, and light pens are all input devices. Isn't it amusing that under the dry title of "input devices," we get such fun words as mice, joystick, trackball, touch pad, light pen, and puck?
Keyboards
The input of information into your computer is generally done through your keyboard and your mouse or mouse substitute. The keyboard has the distinction of being the standard input device.
The variety of keyboards is almost staggering. No one has to stick with the standard keyboard that comes with the computer. Ergonomically designed keyboards often have unusual sculpted or contoured shapes and a space age look. These keyboards are designed to help avoid repetitive stress injury to the wrists. Some of these keyboards come with foot pedals to spread the work to other limbs. Some keyboards are even designed to take advantage of the strength in the thumbs.
Other keyboards come with extra large keys to help users with sight or hand coordination problems. Wireless keyboards can offer the freedom from being tethered to the computer. In keyboards, if you shop around, you will find that there really is something for everyone.
Your choice of keyboard, like your choice of any input device, is a very personal matter. If only we could test each type of keyboard or mouse for an extended period of time before buying one, but that just doesn't happen in today's marketplace. Computer users should research the many different products offered. Make sure you know if and how you can customize the input device for your own use. Only you can decide which kind of device is most comfortable for you. And that applies to all input devices.