Virtual RealityVirtual Reality involves the user entering a 3D world generated by the computer.To be immersed in a 3D VR world requires special hardware e.g.

Input DevicesPosition tracker – in headset, tracks position of head so that display via goggles can be updatedData glove – provides information about hand movements to computer systemData suit – can track all body movements for the purpose of input to the system

Output devices

Goggles in the VR headset provide the visual image of the 3D VR WorldHeadphones can be used to provide audio outputPressure pads, rumble pads etc, can provide the sensation of movement or texture for surfaces

Multimedia

Multimedia systems combine graphics, text, sound, video and animation to provide a rich experience for the user.Many interactive multimedia software titles are available now.Often these are stored on CD-ROM e.g. Microsoft Encarta.A number of hardware devices are required for the complete multimedia experience:

Input Devices for MultimediaSoundcard

A hardware unit that can be integrated or can be added to a computer (PC or Mac) to add sound capability. Most cards allow MIDI input and output as well as audio input and output. Sound cards also have on board synthesisers so they can be used just by themselves. Soundcards are required to allow MIDI (from a midi controller or keyboard) and Audio Input (from a microphone or other audio source).

GamePadA controller with a number of buttons and joystick like functions mainly for use with computer games

Midi KeyboardA midi keyboard is much like a piano keyboard and can be used to send MIDI data to a soundcard/computer.

Output devices for Multimedia

SoundcardAs well as allowing input from audio and MIDI sources a soundcard more commonly is used to output high quality audio and MIDI data.Computer games and DVDs make use of high quality audio systemsMIDI modules and equipment can be controlled by the MIDI signals from the soundcard

Graphics CardA circuit board that plugs into a personal computer to give it display capabilities. The display capabilities of a computer, however, depend on both the graphics card and the display monitor. Many high quality graphics card have sophisticated 3D processors which all almost life-like 3D graphics