11.3.2.3.6-1 Appropriate Use of Touch-Screen Devices

Touch screens are appropriate for tasks involving the occasional selection of objects on position displays, layout diagrams, piping diagrams, discrete-function controls, or opening and closing valves.

Additional Information: Touch-screen devices are not recommended if the task requires holding the arm up to the screen for long periods of time or the entry of large amounts of data. Also, they should not be used for tasks that require frequent, alternating use of the touch screen and a keyboard, or long-term continuous data entry. Table 11.7 gives the advantages and disadvantages of touch screens.1472G, 5908

 

Table 11.7 Advantages And Disadvantages Of Touch-Screen Use

 

Advantages

Disadvantages

No separate input device

Slower alphanumeric data entry

Programmable interface

Arm fatigue

Fast access

Finger may obstruct view

Direct manipulation of targets

Fingerprints or other debris may obscure screen

Input/output in same location

Large buttons required for finger use

Intuitive

Pointing is not very accurate

Natural pointing action

User must be within reach of screen

Generally, no additional desk space required1

No tactile feedback provided3

Generally, no training required2

Unable to rest finger on target without actuation3

Gloved operation may be incompatible with some touch technology

Controls must be deactivated for cleaning

  1. If incorporation is part of an existing primary display.
  2. Application dependent.
  3. If a tactile membrane is not incorporated.

Note:   Source is Table VI in MIL-STD-1472G (DoD, 2012).