Explanation of Computer Keyboard and Types of keyboard keys

A keyboard is a device used for typing, typically consisting of a set of buttons or keys, that when pressed, produce letters, numbers, and special characters on a computer or other electronic device. It is one of the primary input devices for a computer and is used to type text and input commands. Keyboard design has evolved over time, with modern keyboards often featuring additional keys for multimedia and special function.

Keyboard types :

There are several types of keyboards, including:


Membrane Keyboard: It is a simple and inexpensive type of keyboard that uses a rubber or silicone membrane to register key presses.


Mechanical Keyboard: It uses individual mechanical switches for each key, providing a more tactile and responsive typing experience.


Wireless Keyboard: It connects to a computer via a wireless connection, such as Bluetooth, and does not require a physical connection to the computer.


Gaming Keyboard: It is designed specifically for gamers and often features programmable keys, customizable lighting, and advanced software for macro creation and key mapping.


Ergonomic Keyboard: It is designed to reduce the strain on the hands and wrists and can come in different shapes and designs.


Virtual Keyboard: It is a software that allows users to input text using a computer mouse or other pointing device, rather than a physical keyboard.


Foldable Keyboard: It is a compact keyboard which can be folded into small form factor making it portable and easy to carry.


Smart Keyboard: It is a keyboard with built-in touchpad and sometimes with a display that can run apps and perform other tasks.


There are also specialized keyboards for specific tasks or industries, such as:


Medical Keyboard: It is designed specifically for use in medical environments and is often sealed to prevent the buildup of germs and bacteria.


Industrial Keyboard: It is designed for use in harsh industrial environments and is often rugged and waterproof.

Musical Keyboard: It is a type of keyboard instrument that generates sound electronically, and often features a large number of keys, allowing for a wide range of notes and expression.


Handheld Keyboard: It is a small keyboard designed to be held in one hand, often used in mobile or virtual reality applications.


Multilingual Keyboard: It is a keyboard that supports multiple languages and often includes keys for special characters and symbols commonly used in those languages.


Overall, the choice of keyboard depends on the user's needs and preferences, and the specific task or environment in which it will be used.

History of keyboard :

The history of the keyboard can be traced back to the invention of the mechanical typewriter in the late 1800s. Early typewriters had a limited number of keys, typically around two dozen, and were operated by striking a lever with a finger.


In the early 1900s, the first keyboard with the QWERTY layout was invented by Christopher Latham Sholes. This layout was designed to slow down typing speed to prevent the mechanical arms of the typewriter from jamming. The QWERTY layout was quickly adopted by other manufacturers and is still in use today on most English-language keyboards.


In the 1950s, electric typewriters began to replace mechanical typewriters, which allowed for faster and more efficient typing. The first computer keyboard, known as the IBM Selectric Terminal, was introduced in the 1970s and featured a total of 72 keys.


In the 1980s and 1990s, personal computers became more prevalent, and the keyboard became an essential input device for these machines. Keyboards evolved to include additional keys for multimedia and special functions. Today, there are many different types of keyboards available, including wireless, ergonomic, gaming, and smart keyboards.


In recent years, virtual keyboards and speech-to-text technology have also been developed, which allow users to input text without the need for a physical keyboard.

Which type of keyboard is best ?

The best type of keyboard depends on an individual's specific needs and preferences.


For general use, a membrane or a mechanical keyboard is a good choice. A membrane keyboard is simple and inexpensive, while a mechanical keyboard provides a more tactile and responsive typing experience.


If you are looking for a wireless option, a wireless keyboard is a good choice. It connects to a computer via a wireless connection, such as Bluetooth, and does not require a physical connection to the computer.


For gaming enthusiasts, a gaming keyboard is a good choice. It is designed specifically for gaming and often features programmable keys, customizable lighting, and advanced software for macro creation and key mapping.


If you want to reduce the strain on the hands and wrists, an ergonomic keyboard is a good option. It is designed to reduce the strain on the hands and wrists and can come in different shapes and designs.


For portability and easy to carry, a foldable keyboard is a good choice.


For special tasks or industries, specialized keyboards like Medical Keyboard, Industrial Keyboard, Musical Keyboard, Handheld Keyboard, and Multilingual Keyboard are available which are designed for specific tasks or industries.


Ultimately, the choice of keyboard will depend on the user's needs and preferences, and the specific task or environment in which it will be used. It is always best to try out different types of keyboards to find the one that is most comfortable for you.

Types of keyboard keys :

The QWERTY keyboard layout, which is the most common layout for English-language keyboards, is divided into several categories of keys, including:

Alphabetic keys: These are the keys that are used to type letters and are located in the center of the keyboard.


Numeric keys: These are the keys that are used to type numbers and are located on the right side of the keyboard, above the alphabetic keys.


Function keys: These are keys that perform specific functions, such as adjusting the volume or controlling the brightness of the screen. They are typically located at the top of the keyboard and are labeled with the letters F1 through F12.


Navigation keys: These are keys that are used to navigate through documents and web pages, such as the arrow keys, home, end, page up, and page down. They are typically located in the bottom right corner of the keyboard.


Modifier keys: These are keys that are used in conjunction with other keys to perform specific functions, such as the shift, ctrl, alt, and command keys. They are typically located on the left and right sides of the keyboard.


Special keys : These keys are used for specific purposes such as enter, backspace, delete, caps lock, tab and esc.


Media keys : These keys are used for controlling media such as volume, play/pause, next/previous track etc. They are located on the top of the keyboard or as a separate group of keys.


Shortcut keys : These keys are used for triggering specific commands or functions, such as copy, paste, and undo. They are typically located on the top of the keyboard, near the function keys.

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