Information Systems
There are various and diverse methods of data input into a computer from different media, each of which suits a given source of information. Printed papers such as questionnaires would best be entered into the computer system through optical data readers. This method is suitable because a person only uses pens and pencils to write, then the machine reader scans over the paper and automatically inputs the data into the computer. Telephone surveys are best entered into the computer system using the voice-recognition devices. This device recognizes human voice and records the data. It also saves people from making calls and asks questions. These questions can easily be recorded and their answers documented by this same input device before being recorded in the computer system (Lee, 2010).
Bank checks are easily entered into a computer system using the magnetic ink character recognition devices. The advantage of these devices is that they just scan the bar code which is normally located at the bottom of the bank check and then informs the banks on the identity of the check being scanned. In addition, this method keeps the bank from being flooded by the large number of checks transacted by the banks on daily basis. Retail tags are best scanned with bar code readers. Bar code readers are suitable devices for tracking inventory on hand and allow the company to program their computer systems so that inventory orders are automatically placed. Page scanners are suitable for inputting the information contained in long documents. The page scanner automatically scans a hardcopy such as a paper and immediately creates a softcopy version of the same and with then very same information (Lee, 2010).
Similar to data input, data output is very crucial for any information system. Therefore, the quality and convenience of the information held in a system is crucial, and should be protected. To access information and files held on a personal digital gadget such as the iPod, the best method would be is through the use of embedded liquid crystallography display (LCD). This method is suitable because it allows users with eye defections to view the files by adjusting the screen to achieve a high contrast. To view a color photograph, a high resolution computer screen or a pho paper with high quality is suitable because it avoids color loss ass well as distortions. The printers used to print out photographs are quite unique in that they can print colored photographs so that the printouts represent the actual object (Lee, 2010).
Resumes are usually viewed on white plain papers, and thus the color of the text must be contrasting with the white paper. Black is therefore an important and suitable color for the text as it is clearly visible, convenient and makes the text well understandable. In addition, the format of using these two colors makes the paper appear professional and official. The size of the memorandum determines the method used for data display. For instance, if it is not lengthy, it could suitable be viewed on a computer screen (Lee, 2010). However, statistical and corporate annual reports are quite lengthy, and may have charts and graphs. They are supposed to be displayed to a large audience, and thus the use of computer screen becomes irrelevant. In this case, the best way is the use of a wall projector, which produces large displays on a wall and can also be adjusted. The report meant for one person, however, can be printed out, even if it contains the same information as the lengthy report.
Primary storage of data in a computer is referred to as the RAM. It is volatile, because the information stored could be lost once power is switched off. It is also finite with limited storage capacity. In addition, the CPU only takes a few seconds to access information on the primary storage. On the other hand, secondary storage is permanent, and data is normally retrieved even after long hours of power loss. It is also infinite in storage capacity, and cam hold large volumes of data. The CPU takers a long time to access the information stored in secondary storage (Lee, 2010).
The hard disk is a secondary memory device that is used to store data for the primary storage (RAM). Hard disk is suitable for storage because in most times it is located inside the computer system, but can also be used as peripheral storage. The accessibility speed of data from the hard disk is quite reliable. Data stored on the flash drives is secured from damages such as dust and scratches. The suitability of the flash disks, however, is that they are highly portable, owing to their very small size. The CD ROM/DVD Tape is quite portable, and is suitable for storing bulk files such as music, video and video games. They are cheap and easy to write, but are easily affected by scratches (Lee, 2010).
References
Lee, R. (2010). Computer and Information Science 2010. New York, NY: Springer.
