| DirectX SDK |
Aside from providing new services for devices not supported by the Microsoft® Win32® API, DirectInput gives faster access to input data by communicating directly with the hardware drivers, rather than relying on Microsoft® Windows® messages.
DirectInput enables an application to retrieve data from input devices even when the application is in the background. It also provides full support for any type of input device, as well as for force feedback.
The extended services and improved performance of DirectInput make it a valuable tool for games, simulations, and other real-time interactive applications running under Windows.