Input Devices
1. Input Devices
In computer graphics, input devices are used to provide interactive control, select objects, draw shapes, and manipulate images on the screen.
- Enable user interaction
- Send data to computer
- Essential for graphics applications
2. Keyboard
The keyboard is the most common input device used to enter text, numbers, and commands into the computer.
- Alphanumeric keys
- Function and control keys
- Used for command input
3. Mouse
A mouse is a pointing device used to move the cursor and select graphical objects on the screen.
- Supports point-and-click
- Used for drawing and selection
- Optical and laser types
4. Trackball
A trackball is similar to a mouse but has a stationary base with a movable ball for cursor control.
- High precision control
- Requires less desk space
- Used in CAD systems
5. Joystick
A joystick is an input device that controls movement by pivoting a stick in different directions.
- Common in games and simulators
- Controls direction and speed
- Used in 3D navigation
6. Pen Tablet Digitizer
A pen tablet digitizer allows users to draw directly on a tablet surface using a stylus or digital pen.
- Natural drawing experience
- High accuracy input
- Used in graphic design
7. Digital Camera
A digital camera captures images and stores them in digital format, which can be directly used in computer graphics applications.
- Captures images electronically
- No film required
- Used in image processing
8. Comparison of Input Devices
Device Usage ----------- ----------------------------- Keyboard Text & command input Mouse Pointing & selection Trackball Precise cursor control Joystick Directional movement Pen Tablet Drawing & sketching Digital Cam Image input
9. Applications of Input Devices
- Computer graphics design
- Gaming and simulations
- Image editing
- Animation and modeling
Practice Questions
- Define input devices.
- Explain mouse and trackball.
- What is a joystick?
- Explain pen tablet digitizer.
- List applications of digital camera.