Describe "Kiosk" in Computer Language
A “kiosk” is a single-purpose computer placed in a public location. Because a kiosk is designed for one particular job, it may bear little resemblance to a desktop or laptop computer, although it has many of the same components. Like a standard computer, a kiosk has computer hardware such as a processor and memory. It also has an operating system and runs at least one application.
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Examples
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A kiosk serves a purpose that would normally require a person, making it convenient for the end user and an effective, cost-saving measure for the business. Some of the most common kiosks include ATM machines, self-checkout lanes in supermarkets and DVD rental machines. Many airports have kiosks that allow passengers to check in and print boarding passes.
Hardware
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Kiosks are often based on embedded systems – small circuit boards that include all of the necessary components of a computer, such as the processor, memory and a small amount of flash storage. Because a kiosk serves a single purpose, it does not require the power of a typical home or business computer. Kiosks frequently feature touch-screen controls, but some kiosks that require information entry may also include keyboards or keypads. For example, ATM machines often have keypads for PIN entry.
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Operating System
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Kiosks run operating systems similar to the ones found on conventional home and business computers. Microsoft develops a version of Windows 7 for embedded computers. Linux is also popular for use in embedded systems. Because embedded computers typically have little local storage, an operating system designed for this purpose may have many features removed so it consumes as little space as possible.
Software
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In many cases, the only software needed to create a functioning kiosk is a Web browser. When a kiosk is used for a simple task such as displaying product information or collecting survey responses from customers, a Web-based application can be developed at little cost. Most browsers feature the ability to enter "kiosk mode" specifically for this type of application. If your browser supports this mode, you can enter and leave it by pressing the "F11" key. In other cases, specialized software is necessary. For example, ATM machines require software with the ability to connect to a central database, verify a customer's identity and confirm that funds are available before dispensing cash. Such software must also have security measures to prevent hacking.
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References
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