input

computing

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 29, 2026

Quick Summary

In computing, "input" refers to the data or instructions that are fed into a computer or data processing system. This information can be in various forms, such as text, numbers, or commands, and is typically entered using peripheral devices like keyboards, mice, or scanners. The computer then processes this input to perform specific operations or generate output. The term "computing" itself means to determine a value through mathematical operations.123456

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

6 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

automata theory
…external conditions or to other inputs. For example, thermostats, automatic pilots of aircraft, missile guidance systems, telephone networks, and controls of certain kinds of automatic elevators are all forms of automata.
Read More
…external conditions or to other inputs. For example, thermostats, automatic pilots of aircraft, missile guidance systems, telephone networks, and controls of certain kinds of automatic elevators are all forms of automata.
Read More

computer
Input devices
A plethora of devices falls into the category of input peripheral. Typical examples include keyboards, touchpads, mice, trackballs, joysticks, digital tablets, and scanners.
Read More
A plethora of devices falls into the category of input peripheral. Typical examples include keyboards, touchpads, mice, trackballs, joysticks, digital tablets, and scanners.
Read More