3.2 · Lesson 1 of 3
Input devices
Syllabus 3.2.1
What this lesson covers
- Describe a range of input devices and why they are needed
Key vocabulary
- Braille keyboard
- A keyboard with raised dots on the keys, so it can be used by people who can't see.
- Input device
- Hardware that sends data into a computer so it can be processed.
- Barcode scanner
- Reads the pattern of light reflected from a barcode.
- QR code
- A 2D code of black and white squares that stores much more data than a barcode.
- Optical mouse
- Uses an LED and a tiny camera to detect movement across a surface.
- Resistive touch screen
- Detects a touch when two flexible layers are pressed together.
- Capacitive touch screen
- Detects a touch when a conductor, such as a finger, changes the charge on the screen.
- Infra-red touch screen
- Detects a touch when it breaks a grid of infra-red beams.
- 3D scanner
- Scans an object from many angles to create a digital 3D model.
Check your learning
- Quick check: 4 questions
- Key vocabulary test: 9 terms
- Activity 1: Choose the input device · 8 questions
- Activity 2: Input devices quiz · 8 questions
- Activity 3: Input or output? · drag and drop