Computer Keyboards

The keyboard of a computer is mainly an input device comprising of an arrangement of buttons and keys, partly designed like a typewriter. Keys are embedded inside the keyboard with alphabets, numbers, and other symbols printed on them which help the user identify between various alphabets and signs, and press the correct key. Sometimes two or more keys need to be pressed in sequence to activate a particular function. In a computer system, the interpretation of the keys is left to the software A computer differentiates each character from the other depending on its mapping in the keyboard layout.. There are various types of keyboards that are available in the market.

Wireless keyboards

The obvious difference between this keyboard and the normal keyboard is that the wireless keyboard uses the infrared beams for transferring signals to the CPU as against the normal keyboard which uses wire. As the messages are typed on the wireless keyboard, the data is transferred to the computer through a infra red port and the signals are picked up by a infra red detector attached to a port on the motherboard. One of the advantages of this type of keyboard is that it removes one wire from the entire web of wires at the back of the desk. There are many who prefer to use a wireless mouse accompanied with a wireless keyboard.

It is always not possible for users to keep a standard keyboard at a place which provides best accessibility. But in the case of a wireless keyboard, it can be kept at a place convenient to the user, provided that the keyboard is at a position from where the infrared beams could be transferred to the computer, else the computer won’t work. Hence, a wireless keyboard assures convenience, flexibility and mobility, without any physical obstructions or barriers.

Ergonomic keyboard

This type of a keyboard helps relieve stress and aches caused due to consecutive typing. This type of keyboard facilitates comfortable typing. Continuous keyboard usage can cause carpal tunnel syndrome. This can be painful and detrimental for health. The ergonomic keyboards are easier and comfortable to use than normal ones. Even the doctors recommend these types of keyboards for people suffering from back problems or stresses.

People also think that the QWERTY layout is harmful for the arms and fingers.  Therefore, the Dvorak keyboard layout has been especially designed for those who find the QWERTY layout to be inconvenient for use. There are no specific designs as far as ergonomic keyboards are concerned. Many prefer it with a contoured design for easy use.

Illuminated keyboards

This illuminated keyboard is beneficial for areas where there is poor lighting. It is also apt for multimedia presentations in meeting rooms with dim lights. However, when purchasing an illuminated keyboard, one should check that the option of switching off the illumination is present along with the option for adjusting the brightness of the illumination.

Thus, it is seen that there are various types of keyboards that are available in the market with advanced technologies which makes computer use easier and more convenient.