Touch screens accept input by allowing the user to place a fingertip directly on the computer screen, usually to make a selection from a menu of choices. Most touchscreen computers use sensors on the screen's surface to detect the touch of a finger, but other touch screen technologies are in use, as well.
Touch screens work well in environments where dirt or weather would render
keyboards and pointing devices useless,
and where a simple, intuitive interface is
important.
They are well-suited for simple
applications, such as automated teller machines or
public information kiosks (see
Fig. 1).
Fig. 1: public information kiosk.
Touch screens have become common in fast-food restaurants, department stores, drugstores, and supermarkets,
where they are used for all kinds of purposes, from creating personalized greeting
cards to selling lottery tickets.
Do you want to say or ask something?