Abstract :
Complex instruments, even those used only by "gurus" still need reasonable human interfaces. There are elements that need to be considered in any interface: consistency, intuitiveness, obviousness, utility, and ease of use. Even "gurus" shouldn\´t have to learn the ins and outs of strange operations; most of them probably don\´t want to learn it, either. Their focus is to use the instrument, not to become an expert on it. This article discusses a case study on human interfaces in instruments.
Keywords :
computerised instrumentation; human factors; user interfaces; complex instruments; human interface; interface consistency; interface intuitiveness; interface obviousness; interface utility; Chemical sensors; Chemical transducers; Computer aided software engineering; Computer displays; Histograms; Humans; Instruments; Laboratories; Liquid crystal displays; Testing;