Computer keyboard

File:Typing example.ogv

Computer keyboard is an input device used to enter characters and functions into the computer system by pressing buttons, or keys. A keyboard typically contains keys for individual letters, numbers and special characters, as well as keys for specific functions. Over the years, the keyboard has evolved from mechanical designs to the modern digital keyboards used today.

History

The history of the computer keyboard begins with the invention of the typewriter. It is closely related to the development of the telegraph and the piano. The earliest keyboards were mechanical and were used to control the telegraph. The layout of the first computer keyboards was heavily influenced by the layout of the typewriter keyboards, which was designed to prevent jams and increase typing speed by spreading out the most commonly used letters. The most common layout, the QWERTY layout, was designed in the 1870s.

Types of Keyboards

There are several types of computer keyboards, each designed for specific needs and uses. The most common types include:

• Membrane Keyboard: Uses a pressure pad that outlines the keys, with only a flat surface for the user to type on. These are quiet and less expensive but may lack the tactile feedback many users prefer.
• Mechanical Keyboard: Each key has its own switch, which provides tactile feedback to the user. These keyboards are more durable and responsive, making them popular among gamers and typists.
• Wireless Keyboard: Operates via Bluetooth or radio frequency to connect to the computer, allowing more mobility and reducing desk clutter.
• Ergonomic Keyboard: Designed to reduce strain and discomfort by providing a more natural hand position while typing.

Key Layouts

The layout of a keyboard refers to the arrangement of keys and their functions. The most widely used layout is the QWERTY layout, but there are several others designed to improve typing efficiency and comfort, such as Dvorak and Colemak.

Technology

Modern keyboards use a variety of technologies to register key presses. The most common is the dome-switch technology, which uses a dome with printed letters on the underside. When a key is pressed, the dome collapses, and the circuit beneath the key is completed, sending the corresponding signal to the computer.

Usage

Keyboards are used for a wide range of activities, from typing documents to controlling games. The design and layout of a keyboard can significantly affect the user's productivity and comfort.

Maintenance

Regular cleaning is necessary to keep a keyboard in good working condition. This can involve removing dust and debris from between the keys and cleaning the key surfaces to remove oils and grime.

Future Developments

The future of keyboards may involve more advanced technologies such as virtual and projection keyboards, which do not require physical keys. Additionally, advancements in ergonomics and design may lead to keyboards that further reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries.

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