Evaluation of input devices for a data setting task

Abstract

This study evaluates a set of numeric manual entry devices. The task required was to set numeric data into the devices. The devices evaluated in this study were: a 10-key keyboard, levers, a matrix keyboard, and rotary knobs. The criteria by which the devices were evaluated were: error rate, entry time, and operator preferences. A repeated measurement design was utilized. Each of 24 subjects made 175 10-digit entries into each of the 4 devices. The conclusions based upon the data are: (a) the 10-key keyboard yields a significantly lower error rate and is significantly preferred compared to the other devices. This device required significantly less time per entry compared to the level and rotary knobs. (b) The matrix device required significantly less time per entry and was significantly preferred compared to the level and rotory knobs. The matrix device does not result in a significantly lower error rate than the latter 2 devices. (c) There were no significant differences between the lever and rotary knob devices. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)