Human interface devices (HIDs) are computer add-ons with buttons or controls for direct interaction. HIDs use USB communication protocol and contain pre-programmed data called HID descriptors. HID hardware classification encourages the creation of new input devices and is plug and play compatible. HIDs include game controllers, medical instruments, and exercise machines.
A human interface device (HID) is a variety of computer add-ons designed to be used directly by people. Unlike other devices such as external hard drives or wireless cards, HIDs typically have buttons or controls that allow people to interact with the computer. Most modern human interface devices use the Universal Serial Bus (USB) communication protocol; the term HID usually refers to this type of device.
The “Human Interface Device” designation was created by engineers working at Microsoft Corporation in the late 1990s. Before that, the number of protocols for computing devices was limited. Manufacturers were limited to creating input devices that fell into narrow categories, such as joysticks or keyboards. Computer companies were forced to write entirely new device instructions called “drivers” every time a new experimental input controller was made.
A human interface device hardware classification was designed to address this limitation and encourage the creation of new types of input devices. If a manufacturer follows HID hardware guidelines, they can safely assume that their product will work properly with most modern computers. Most of the operating systems in use, including Windows and Mac platforms, support the human interface device specification.
HIDs contain pre-programmed data, called “HID descriptors,” which is reported to a host computer when the device is first connected. HID descriptors tell the computer the purpose of each packet of information that will be sent from the interface device. Essentially, this data provides an “update” to the host and notifies the computer what input to expect.
While most HID hardware is designed to allow users to control the computer, the protocol is not limited to just inputs. HID outputs can also be sent from the computer to a device. This communication capability is often used to provide information, such as status lights. Some devices use the output capability to help immerse a user in a program or game via vibration or force feedback.
Most human interface devices are “plug and play” compatible, meaning they can be plugged in and used almost immediately. A plug and play HID controller does not require resetting the computer before it can be used and does not require the user to load external drivers. These features save you time and minimize installation hassles.
The use of the HID specification has allowed manufacturers to create a wide variety of different interface controls, all using the same general drivers. In addition to standard keyboards and mice, many game controllers use this protocol. Other examples of human interface devices include dance mats, vehicle simulation controls, exercise machines, and hospital medical instruments.
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