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15 views

Keyboard

Uploaded by

ardit.fisoft
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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1. What is a Keyboard?

A keyboard is a peripheral device used to input data into a computer or other devices. It consists
of a set of keys or buttons that correspond to letters, numbers, symbols, and various functions,
enabling users to type or execute commands.

2. Types of Keyboards:

a. Mechanical Keyboards

 Mechanism: Mechanical keyboards use individual switches under each key, making
them more tactile and durable. Common switch types include Cherry MX, Razer, and
Romers.
 Pros:
o High durability (often rated for millions of key presses).
o Customizable switches with tactile feedback (clicky or smooth).
o Faster response times, making them ideal for gaming.
 Cons:
o Generally louder than membrane keyboards.
o More expensive.

b. Membrane Keyboards

 Mechanism: These keyboards use a soft, flexible membrane layer beneath the keys,
which registers key presses when the membrane makes contact with a circuit.
 Pros:
o Quieter than mechanical keyboards.
o More affordable.
o Lighter and thinner design.
 Cons:
o Less tactile feedback.
o Shorter lifespan (more prone to wear over time).

c. Hybrid Keyboards

 Mechanism: These keyboards combine the characteristics of both mechanical and


membrane designs, often featuring scissor switches for a quieter and more responsive
typing experience.
 Pros:
o Offers a balance between quietness and performance.
o Usually thinner than full mechanical keyboards.
 Cons:
o May not provide the same level of tactile feedback or durability as fully
mechanical keyboards.

d. Ergonomic Keyboards
 Design: Ergonomic keyboards are designed to reduce strain on the user's hands and
wrists. They often have a split layout, curved key arrangement, and adjustable angles.
 Pros:
o Helps reduce strain and discomfort for prolonged typing sessions.
o Features like wrist rests, split key layouts, and adjustable tenting for better hand
positioning.
 Cons:
o Takes time to adapt to the layout.
o Can be bulky and less portable.

e. Wireless Keyboards

 Connection: These keyboards use Bluetooth or RF (radio frequency) to connect to


devices wirelessly.
 Pros:
o Freedom from cables, offering a cleaner setup.
o Often compact and portable.
 Cons:
o Requires batteries or charging.
o May suffer from interference or lag, particularly in busy wireless environments.

f. Compact Keyboards

 Design: These keyboards are smaller in size, often featuring fewer keys or a more
minimalistic layout (like 60%, 75%, or 80% of a full-size keyboard).
 Pros:
o Ideal for portability.
o More ergonomic for smaller desk spaces.
 Cons:
o Lack some function keys (e.g., F keys or number pad) in smaller layouts.

g. Gaming Keyboards

 Features: Often mechanical, gaming keyboards are designed with specialized features,
such as customizable keycaps, macro keys, RGB lighting, and higher polling rates.
 Pros:
o High-performance switches for faster key presses.
o Customizable RGB lighting.
o Extra programmable keys for gaming macros.
 Cons:
o Typically more expensive.
o May include features that are not necessary for non-gaming users.

3. Key Switches:
The "feel" of a keyboard is often determined by the type of switches used. Switches generally
fall into three categories:

a. Linear Switches

 Feel: Smooth keypress without tactile bump or audible click.


 Example: Cherry MX Red.
 Best for: Fast typing and gaming, where quietness and rapid key presses are important.

b. Tactile Switches

 Feel: A noticeable bump at the actuation point, providing tactile feedback.


 Example: Cherry MX Brown.
 Best for: Typing and programming, where feedback is preferred without excessive noise.

c. Clicky Switches

 Feel: Tactile bump with an audible click.


 Example: Cherry MX Blue.
 Best for: Typing, where the audible feedback helps some people type more efficiently.

4. Key Layouts:

Keyboards may differ based on regional layouts or specific uses:

a. ANSI Layout (American Standard)

 Popular in: The U.S. and Canada.


 Features: Standard full-sized keyboard with the Enter key shaped as a horizontal
rectangle.

b. ISO Layout

 Popular in: Europe (especially the UK and Germany).


 Features: Similar to the ANSI layout but includes an extra key next to the left Shift key
(ISO key), and the Enter key is shaped like an upside-down L.

c. JIS Layout

 Popular in: Japan.


 Features: Includes extra keys for Japanese characters and a different arrangement of
punctuation symbols.

d. 60%, 75%, 80%, 100% Layouts

 These terms refer to the percentage of keys present compared to a full-size keyboard.
o 60%: Only has the main alphanumeric keys, no function row, number pad, or
arrows.
o 75%: More compact than 100%, includes the function keys and arrows.
o 80% (Tenkeyless): Similar to a full-sized keyboard, but without the number pad.
o 100%: A full-sized keyboard with all keys (function row, number pad, etc.).

5. Additional Features:

a. Backlighting & RGB Lighting

 Standard Backlighting: Illuminated keys to make typing easier in low-light


environments.
 RGB Lighting: Customizable color lighting for aesthetic purposes, popular in gaming
keyboards.

b. Key Rollover and Anti-Ghosting

 Key Rollover: Refers to the number of keys that can be pressed simultaneously without
dropping any input (e.g., 6-key rollover means you can press 6 keys at once).
 Anti-Ghosting: Prevents "ghost" inputs from registering when multiple keys are pressed
simultaneously.

c. Programmable Keys and Macros

 Some keyboards, particularly gaming or mechanical ones, offer programmable keys,


allowing you to assign custom functions or macros to specific keys. This can be
particularly useful for gaming, productivity tasks, or accessibility.

d. Wrist Rest and Comfort Features

 Wrist Rest: Helps reduce strain on the wrists by providing support while typing.
 Adjustable Height: Many keyboards allow you to adjust the tilt or angle to ensure
ergonomic comfort.

6. Keyboards for Specific Use Cases:

 For Programmers: Keyboards with programmable macros, ergonomic layouts, and


tactile switches are favored.
 For Gamers: Mechanical switches with fast actuation, customizable keys, and RGB
lighting are essential.
 For Office Use: Quiet, responsive keyboards with a comfortable layout and extra
functionality like media controls or volume knobs.

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