pen-based computer
pen-based computer,
computercomputer,device capable of performing a series of arithmetic or logical operations. A computer is distinguished from a calculating machine, such as an electronic calculator, by being able to store a computer program (so that it can repeat its operations and make logical
..... Click the link for more information. that uses software to enable it to accept handwriting or drawing as a form of input. A stylus, which may contain special electronic circuitry, may be used to write on the computer display or on a separate tablet. The earliest devices were limited to recognizing geometric shapes for computer graphicscomputer graphics,
the transfer of pictorial data into and out of a computer. Using analog-to-digital conversion techniques, a variety of devices—such as curve tracers, digitizers, and light pens—connected to graphic computer terminals, computer-aided design
..... Click the link for more information. applications and neatly printed alphanumeric characters. Pattern recognition software has improved to the level where cursive input is now acceptable, especially in personal digital assistantspersonal digital assistant
(PDA), lightweight, hand-held computer designed for use as a personal organizer with communications capabilities; also called a handheld. A typical PDA has no keyboard, relying instead on special hardware and pen-based computer software to enable the
..... Click the link for more information. , smartphones, and computer tablets, although such input is not always accurately interpreted by the software. Styluses now also may be used to create artwork as well as input alphanumeric characters and geometric shapes, and touchscreens permit a finger to replace a stylus in some cases.