Know and understand characteristics, uses, advantages and disadvantages of direct data entry devices including magnetic stripe reader, chip and PIN reader, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) reader, Optical Mark Recognition/Reader (OMR), Optical C

Published by Patrick Mutisya · 14 days ago

ICT 0417 – Input and Output Devices: Direct Data‑Entry Devices

2 Input and Output Devices – Direct Data‑Entry Devices

This set of notes covers the main direct data‑entry devices that are commonly examined in the Cambridge IGCSE ICT (0417) syllabus. For each device the following aspects are highlighted:

  • Key characteristics

  • Typical uses

  • Advantages

  • Disadvantages

1. Magnetic Stripe Reader (MSR)

AspectDetails
CharacteristicsReads magnetic stripe encoded data by detecting changes in magnetic flux; usually contacts the stripe or uses a swipe motion.
UsesBank cards, loyalty cards, transport tickets, ID badges.
Advantages

  • Low cost and widely available.

  • Fast read time (typically < 0.5 s).

  • Simple integration with POS and access‑control systems.

Disadvantages

  • Data can be easily cloned or skimmed.

  • Limited storage capacity (usually 2–3 KB).

  • Physical wear of the stripe reduces reliability.

2. Chip and PIN Reader (EM \cdot Reader)

AspectDetails
CharacteristicsReads data stored on a micro‑processor chip; requires insertion of the card and entry of a personal identification number (PIN).
UsesDebit/credit cards, secure ID cards, government e‑passports.
Advantages

  • Enhanced security – data is encrypted and PIN verification is required.

  • Higher data capacity (up to 10 KB) and ability to update data.

  • Resistant to wear; chip is protected inside the card.

Disadvantages

  • Higher cost than magnetic stripe readers.

  • Longer transaction time (typically 2–3 s).

  • Requires a PIN pad and power source.

3. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Reader

AspectDetails
CharacteristicsUses radio waves to communicate with RFID tags (active, passive or semi‑passive); can read at distances from a few centimetres to several metres.
UsesInventory management, access control, contactless payment, livestock tracking.
Advantages

  • No line‑of‑sight required; can read multiple tags simultaneously.

  • Fast read/write cycles (milliseconds).

  • Durable tags can survive harsh environments.

Disadvantages

  • Potential for interference from metal or liquids.

  • Security concerns – tags can be read without owner’s knowledge.

  • Higher initial setup cost for readers and infrastructure.

4. Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) Reader

AspectDetails
CharacteristicsDetects the presence or absence of marks (usually dark ink) on a pre‑designed form using a light source and photodetector array.
UsesMultiple‑choice tests, surveys, attendance sheets.
Advantages

  • Very fast processing of large numbers of forms.

  • Low error rate when forms are correctly filled.

  • Simple hardware – inexpensive compared with OCR.

Disadvantages

  • Requires specially designed forms; cannot read free‑form handwriting.

  • Mark quality (light shading, stray marks) can cause errors.

  • Limited to binary data (marked/unmarked).

5. Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Reader

AspectDetails
CharacteristicsScans printed or handwritten text and converts it into editable digital characters using pattern‑matching algorithms.
UsesDigitising printed documents, invoice processing, passport scanning.
Advantages

  • Reduces manual data‑entry time.

  • Enables searchable electronic archives.

  • Can handle a variety of fonts and layouts with modern software.

Disadvantages

  • Accuracy drops with poor print quality, unusual fonts, or cursive handwriting.

  • Requires post‑processing to correct errors.

  • Initial software cost can be high.

6. Bar Code Reader

AspectDetails
CharacteristicsUses a laser or LED to scan a series of parallel bars (1‑D) and decodes the pattern into numeric or alphanumeric data.
UsesRetail checkout, inventory control, shipping labels.
Advantages

  • Very low cost and widely supported.

  • Fast read speed (milliseconds).

  • Simple integration with databases.

Disadvantages

  • Requires a clear line of sight; damaged bars cause read errors.

  • Limited data capacity (typically up to 20 characters).

  • Not suitable for very small items where space is limited.

7. QR Code Scanner

AspectDetails
CharacteristicsScans two‑dimensional matrix codes (QR) using a camera or laser; can store up to several thousand alphanumeric characters.
UsesMobile payments, marketing campaigns, ticketing, linking to URLs.
Advantages

  • High data capacity and error‑correction capability.

  • Can be read from any orientation; no strict alignment needed.

  • Works with smartphone cameras – no dedicated hardware required.

Disadvantages

  • Scanning can be slower on low‑resolution cameras.

  • Physical damage or excessive glare reduces readability.

  • Security risk if QR codes link to malicious sites.

Summary Comparison

DeviceTypical RangeData CapacitySecurity LevelCommon Applications
Magnetic Stripe ReaderContact (≤ 2 cm)2–3 KBLowBank cards, loyalty cards
Chip & PIN ReaderContact (≤ 1 cm)≤ 10 KBHigh (encryption + PIN)Debit/credit cards, secure IDs
RFID Reader0.1 m – 10 m (depends on tag)Varies (bits to KB)Medium‑High (depends on encryption)Inventory, access control
OMR ReaderContact (paper)Binary per fieldLow (no personal data)Tests, surveys
OCR ReaderContact (paper or screen)Unlimited (text length)Medium (depends on data handling)Document digitisation
Bar Code ReaderContact/near‑contact (≤ 5 cm)≤ 20 charactersLowRetail, logistics
QR Code ScannerContact/near‑contact (≤ 10 cm)Up to 4 KB (≈ 7 000 characters)Medium (depends on linked content)Mobile payments, marketing

Suggested diagram: Flow of data from a magnetic stripe card through a reader into a point‑of‑sale system.

Suggested diagram: RFID tag‑reader interaction showing active vs. passive tags.

Understanding these devices, their strengths and limitations, enables students to select the most appropriate technology for a given ICT solution and to anticipate potential security or usability issues.