Touch screens are convenient since they let you input data through the buttons on the screen - you don't have to use another input device like a keyboard or mouse. A touch screen has grid overlays that respond to pressure so it can deliver your commands to a computer.
Usage
Toshiba Pen Tablet
Touch screens are typically used for applications that need accurate yet faster movement like handwriting input and video games. They can be operated with your fingers, a stylus, or a digital pen depending on your precision and comfort needs.
Kinds
If you are looking for a touch screen, make sure that you check on its sensitivity to touch and clarity. You can choose from different types and these are:
o Resistive - cheaper than other models but they have around 75% to 85% clarity depending on the screen overlay.
o Capacitive - some require a special stylus for consistent pressure. They have high clarity and cannot be slowed down by external elements.
o Surface wave - emits ultrasonic waves on the panel that are disturbed with touch. They can easily be damaged by moisture and heat and they require regular maintenance.
o Strain gauge - has more sensitive gauges that detects deflection on the screen when touched. They can be programmed for resistance to extreme deflection through force, which makes them vandal-proof.
o Infrared - has a grid of infrared beams interruptible with touch. They are operable with warm fingers so screen sensitivity is increased. They are durable and used commonly for military applications.
o Dispersive signal - detects vibrations from the finger or the stylus.
o Acoustic pulse - uses piezoelectric transducers for conversion of your mechanical energy to electrical signals that are converted to audio files to match the programmed audio profile on the screen. They work with any pointing device.
o Optical imaging - has image sensors and infrared backlights. They are usually for large display screens but can be scaled to fit other screen formats.