ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the design of traditional and conventional information devices, and also the design of devices for communication with computers. The design of instructions, forms, and tables will be dealt with towards the end of the chapter. In Chapter 4 we deal with the latest in design of information devices. A good understanding of the ergonomics of analogue information devices provides a rm foundation for a perceptual good design of the modern, more advanced, and exible information devices. In other words, a good understanding of the design of analogue devices (instruments and controls) will be helpful in the design of the newer, more advanced
displays. Conventional instrumentation can easily be integrated into modern exible displays using the latest forms of display technology. (See also Chapter 4.)
Also included in this chapter are instructions on how scales and scale markings on visual instruments should be designed, together with the advantages and disadvantages of different types of visual instruments. It appears, for example, that the common round meter with a moving pointer is best for most applications. Where more exact quantitative readings are necessary and there is plenty of time, the directreading digital instrument is best.
