Automated Data Capture

Automated data capture is when hardware devices are used to collect data that is needed instead of humans to avoid human error. Here are some examples of automated data capture methods:



Bar Codes


Bar codes are used in most grocery stores to help keep track of the items in store and also to help reduce shoplifiting (as it is more difficult to switch the price tag from a lower priced item onto a higher priced one). Bar codes can also be used to track the movement of objects, for example hire cars and airline luggage.


Magnetic Strips


Magnetic strips are used in identity cards, credit cards and driving liscence (only in the USA). They hold relevant data on the strip which is then attatched to the card and can be read by a special device.


Smart card chips



Optical mark recognition

An example of when OMR is used is in multiple choice exam papers. An HB pencil must be used by the candidate to colour in the 'bubble' with the letter they think represents the correct answer, a machine then reads the exam paper by shining a light on it and using the reflection to establish which bubble is coloured in.

Magnetic ink character recognition

MICR is when magnetic ink containign iron oxide is used to print something such as the number at the bottom of a cheque, this can then be read by a special machine. The characters can be read even if they have been printed over with something like a stamp. MICR is more successful than OMR with fewer errors.