Other Methods

Smart Cards

These are similar to magnetic stripe cards but the data is stored on a chip which is embedded in the card.

Sensors

In specialised applications sensors may be used to detect events and feed data directly into a computer. Examples involve most control applications such as traffic lights, burglar alarms, washing machines etc. The sensors used will usually be specific to the application - e.g. detectors embedded in the road for traffic light systems. The sensors may be remote and in certain situation they may store the data locally for later transmission to the computer or perhaps collection. This type of data collection is often called data logging. The data logger may transmit data to the computer via cable or radio link or it may write data to a cassette.

An important consideration in data logging is the sampling rate. It is possible if the sampling rate is wrong to obtain data that is accurate but that will provide inaccurate information. For example a data logger used to monitor temperature would measure temperature accurately. If the sampling rate were once per 24 hours it would not provide accurate information about temperature variations throughout the day.

Data Recorders

These are hand-held devices that can store data for later input to a computer. The data recorder may incorporate a bar-code gun or a keyboard. Applications include utility meter reading, (gas electric etc.) ticket inspecting on public transport and stock movement control.

Digitiser (Graphics tablet)

This is best used to capture drawings from artists and graphic designers who have high level of pen based skills.

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