Technology Assessment of Man Machine Interface
Abstract
Interfaces, also called man-machine interfaces or input-output (I/O) mechanisms, are the means by which humans communicate with computer resources and applications. In the first two decades of computer development (1950's and 1960's), interfaces designed for general purpose, end-user application were very primitive. Card readers, card punch machines and hard copy printer terminals were the predominant man-computer interface devices. Since the late 1960's, keyboards and monitors have been the dominant communications interface between the computer and the user in an increasingly more interactive environment. Throughout most of this period of development, the user has been required to have significant training and knowledge of the specific hardware, operating system and application in order to use the computer. As the use of computers began to proliferate during the 1970's, the demand for simpler, more easily learned interfaces began to grow.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA216810