What is an input device that produces a digital image file to be saved onto a computer called?

A scanner is an input device specifically designed to capture images or text from physical documents and convert that information into a digital format that can be stored on a computer. It works by sending light across the document, detecting the reflected light, and translating that information into pixels, thereby creating a digital image file. This file can then be saved in various formats like JPEG, PNG, or PDF.

In contrast, a keyboard is primarily used for entering text and commands, while a mouse serves as a pointing device for navigating and interacting with items on a computer screen. A microphone captures audio input rather than visual information, which does not pertain to producing digital image files. Thus, the function of the scanner distinctly aligns with the requirement of generating and saving digital images.