Computer Hardware
Input Device
Definition
An input device is any piece of computer hardware equipment which translates data and control signals from a user into a form that the computer can understand.
Why It Matters
Input devices are the primary way humans interact with and control computers.
Contextual Example
The most common input devices are the keyboard (for entering text) and the mouse (for pointing and clicking). Other examples include microphones, webcams, scanners, and game controllers.
Common Misunderstandings
- Input devices send data TO the computer.
- A touchscreen is both an input device (it senses your touch) and an output device (it displays the image).