“Keyboards” are input devices used to type text, input commands, and interact with computers or other electronic devices. They come in various designs, layouts, and technologies. Here are some key points about keyboards:
Layouts: The most common layout is the QWERTY, but there are others like AZERTY, Dvorak, and more, depending on the region and user preference.
Types:
- Mechanical Keyboards: Use individual mechanical switches for keys. They are often favored for their tactile feedback and durability.
- Membrane Keyboards: Use a pressure pad system where keys press down on a membrane to complete a circuit, activating the key press.
- Scissor-switch Keyboards: Often found on laptops, they use a mechanism beneath each key to improve the tactile response compared to traditional membrane keyboards.
- Virtual Keyboards: Displayed on touchscreen devices like smartphones and tablets.
Connectivity:
- Wired Keyboards: Typically connect via USB.
- Wireless Keyboards: Connect via Bluetooth or proprietary wireless connections.
Specialized Keyboards:
- Gaming Keyboards: Often have additional keys for gaming and might include RGB lighting.
- Ergonomic Keyboards: Designed to reduce strain and fatigue. They might have a split design or a contoured shape.
- Multimedia Keyboards: Include additional keys for media control like play, pause, volume, etc.
Size:
- Full-sized Keyboards: Include a number pad.
- Tenkeyless: Similar to full-sized but without the number pad.
- Compact or 60% Keyboards: Only include the main key area, often omitting function row, navigation cluster, and number pad.
Keyboards are essential for most computing tasks, from typing documents to programming to gaming.