Input devices for computers

Mouse / Mice

A computer mouse is used to direct a cursor on a computer in various directions, there are a number of buttons which allows a user to select icons or text on the screen to enable the computer to perform a number of functions.

Some mice have scroll wheels which allows the user to scroll though pages of information without moving the mouse.

Gamers mice are developed fro high precision and performance and may include more function buttons.

Keyboards

A number of keyboards allows users to type information on a computer and may include a side numeric pad.

Number pad / Numeric pad / calculator pad

A numeric pad may be included on a keyboard, but may also be purchased separately. This is a set of numeric keys laid out similar to a calculator. A numeric pad speeds up number entry and is useful in an accounting environment.

Joysticks, game pads and gaming devices

Gamers may use a keyboard and mouse to play their favourite game, however, for best gaming performance, a joystick, joy pad or steering wheel is essential on some games.

Graphics tablets

A graphics tablets allows a user to draw images and lay a page out using a touch sensitive pen on an electronic pad.