Input Devices
Allowing you to use your computer and input information
Computer input devices are the parts of a computer used for inputting (or in the case of a printer, outputting) information on your computer. They are also known as peripherals. They include keyboards and mice, primarily, but also computer monitors, printers, webcams and scanners. Input devices are important when you use your computer because without them, you can’t see what you’re doing, work with the information you want to relay or tell the computer what you want to do. Without input devices, all you really have is your computer’s processing unit.
A keyboard and a mouse are examples of a primary input device. They normally are included in the purchase of your computer, but those are the basic models. Many people prefer to upgrade to keyboards and mice that are more ergonomically correct or can perform more tasks, such as controlling the volume on the computer, or accessing media from the computer keyboard itself instead of going into the computer to skip tracks or play videos. Other primary input devices include monitors. These allow you to see what you’re inputting into the computer as well as all of the computer’s processes.
Printers are actually output devices, since they transform digital information into a hard copy, but these days, printers include so many other devices in an all-in-one package that they can be categorized as input devices. A scanner can be included with a printer, or it can be a separate input device. Scanners allow you to photocopy a picture or document and save the resulting digital copy as a picture file on your computer. Also, you can choose to send the photocopy directly from your scanner to an email or even to your printer.
Webcams are categorized as computer accessories and are actually often built into some laptops, but they are in fact input devices because they transmit live video to other people over the Internet or through a saved video file. Most webcams will also take digital photographs.
Must-Have Features
- Mice. Get an optical mouse with a scrolling wheel for a more comfortable experience.
- Keyboards. Make sure your keyboard’s full-sized and includes USB ports and programmable hotkeys.
- Printers. Your printer should be able to print black-and-white and color, and replacement printer ink should be easily obtained.
- Scanners. This should have the option of sending information to an email or a printer.
- Webcams. A webcam should include the ability to change focus and even move the camera.
- Monitors. LCD monitors save on space and give a clearer picture.
Major Considerations
- How much space do I have?
- How much will I use my computer? Should I consider ergonomic options?
- Do I want to print photos, or will I use my printer simply for black-and-white documents?
- Will I use my monitor / keyboard for gaming or other media?
- Will I use a webcam for making videos or simply for talking to friends and loved ones?
- Do I want an optical mouse or one with a trackball? What about a scrolling wheel?
Top Manufacturers
- HP
- Toshiba
- Sony
- IBM
- Logitech
Common Accessories or Add-Ons
- Mouse pad
- Printer ink
- Ergonomic wrist pad
Price Range
If you choose to buy a keyboard-and-mouse package, an ergonomic, deluxe design can run you into the $100 price range. A good printer will cost $50 and upwards – one that has photo printing capability can sometimes cost up to $300. Often, scanners are included with these printers, but if not, a scanner by itself will cost around $100. Basic webcams can be purchased for less than $100 – ones that have greater video capability are more expensive. Monitors are priced by size – a 17-inch monitor is $200 to $250; bigger monitors can cost up to $1,000.
Summary
Input devices are important to the use of your computer. Computers and mice are normally included with the computer purchase, but can be upgraded. Monitors are priced by size and graphics capability. Printers and scanners are often combined in an all-in-one machine but can be purchased separately. Webcams are computer accessories that allow you to take digital photographs and make videos to share online. All of these devices help you to get the most out of your computer experience.