Input Devices

Input devices are all of those accessories you use to input data to your computer including keyboards, mice, pen tablets, joysticks, etc.

Installing a keyboard mouse is as simple as plugging it in and turning on the computer to let the operating system recognize it. On older systems, a keyboard and mouse may use the PS/2 style connectors, while more newer systems (and newer input devices) use USB.

Installing a Scanner

A scanner is also an input device. A scanner can be connected via several different I/O ports including USB, SCSI, and parallel.

Most parallel port scanners have two parallel ports on the back – one to the computer and one which acts as a passthru to your printer. Parallel port scanners often require driver software to get them to function properly which should be included with the scanner.

A USB scanner just requires a USB cable from the scanner to one of the open USB ports on your computer. In the illustration above, A illustrates the USB cable end to the scanner while B shows the end connecting to your PC. Some USB scanners are plug’n’play with no driver software needed, while others require Windows drivers to operate correctly.

For SCSI scanners, you must follow the manufacturer’s directions to install. One thing to note for the exam is that the scanner, like all SCSI devices, must be part of a properly terminated SCSI chain. If it is the last SCSI device and is not properly terminated, the SCSI devices in your system will not function correctly.

Adapter Cards

Most newer systems have plenty of ports for every day use, but you may find yourself upgrading, adding, or replacing adapter cards in a variety of situations in a professional capacity. This may include adding additional USB ports, adding a Firewire (IEEE1394) port, or adding a new sound card into a system.

Figure 13: Add-on Firewire Adapter Card

If you do find yourself needing to add an adapter card to a PC, follow these directions:

Attached your ESD strap to your wrist. Open the case of the computer.

Identify an open slot for the adapter card. If there is a slot cover, remove it.

Insert the adapter card and press firmly into the slot. Close the case of the computer. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for properly installing the device drivers.