An input mask is an expression that helps define what type of contact is allowed in a given field of a model. The idea behind the input mask is to keep the data entry process somewhat uniform and to minimize the chances of incorrect data being entered into the field. In some cases, the input field entry can be configured to allow automatic field entry as a way to save time and resources.
man holding computer
The creation of an input mask takes place during the programming process of the computer. The fields in a template are set to specific control values. The values make it impossible to enter data that is not supported by the values. For example, a field that contains an input mask that only allows letters will automatically reject input of numbers.
Another common application of an input mask has to do with automatically converting the input to an acceptable format. For example, the skin may require that the date field in the template specify a structured format such as date/month/year. Even if the person entering the date in the field follows a month/date/year format, the input system reads the data entered and automatically converts it to the proper format.
Automatic input is also extremely useful in many applications. In this scenario, the input mask is structured to trigger an autocomplete of one or more fields, based on data entered in a previous field. For example, when someone enters a first and last name into these fields, the input mask links that information to previously processed data and automatically enters that data into one or more successive fields. As a result, you only need to update a few fields and save the changes, instead of re-entering all the data to create the new file or document.
It is also not uncommon for an input mask to limit the number of characters that can be entered into the field, in addition to requiring a minimum number of characters. This can be especially useful when the file needs to contain data such as credit card numbers, phone numbers, and similar information. This protection will alert the data entry person if too many characters have been entered or not enough characters have been entered to meet the minimum number. This helps minimize errors and avoids having to correct the file at a later date.
