ABSTRACT
New technology has provided a lot of useful features, in the form of alternative input devices, which were not previously available. Users no longer have to rely on using external input systems, such as keyboards or mice, to interact with their computer system. They can use internal input devices, such as virtual keyboards on their tablets, or trackpoints and touchpads. This chapter differentiates between direct input devices, such as touchscreens, and indirect input devices, such as a touchpad. Touchscreens are discussed in terms of their use when vertically presented on a standard desk and when incorporated into a mobile device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or phablet. This chapter discusses the design and use of conventional input devices, such as keyboards and the mouse, including the vertical mouse. Graphics tablets and voice recognition software are reviewed in terms of the benefits for users. New innovations in the field of input devices are also discussed. Reference is made to how the hand operates the input devices by clicking, scrolling, using multi-touch gestures, pointing, tapping, panning, and sliding.
