It is important to know how to analyze the components that make up an interactive system. The components that suffer the worst abuse are the "visitor Input devices." The safest approach is to use parts from devlces that are known to stand up to unsupervised public abuse. Unfortunately, Incorporating these devlces into exhibits is not always easy. Standard mice, keyboards, and trackballs can be as troublesome as they are easyto use. Touchscreens are excellent interfaces for many exhibits. There are a few types of touchscreen, each with advantages and disadvantages. Proper program design and attention to overall system reliability can save touchscreens much abuse.