What is a Computer Keyboard?

Computer keyboards are input devices that let you type documents, use keystroke shortcuts and access menus quickly and easily. Plus, they come equipped with gaming keys and other applications as well.

On keyboards, there are various keys with different functions; some controlled by the operating system and others by applications. These are known as function keys and range in number from F1 through F12 on notebook keyboards or F1 through F15 for full-sized desktop keyboards.

Types

When shopping for a computer keyboard, there are plenty of options to choose from. Size, shape, and features all vary so it’s essential to determine which one best meets your requirements and preferences.

A keyboard is a device with keys that represent the alphabet, numbers, and special symbols. It serves as the standard input device for computers and allows most people to type text or letters on a computer screen.

Most keyboards are designed for ease of use and offer a range of shortcut keys for various tasks, like editing photos or playing games (the best gaming keyboards). Furthermore, they enable you to type without looking at the keys or computer screen, giving you more focus on what needs doing.

To guarantee quick and accurate data entry, modern computer keyboards employ control circuitry that converts key presses into codes the computer can understand. This communication is sent down a serial cable to the main processor on the motherboard of the computer.

Functions

Computer keyboards consist of buttons that create letters, numbers and symbols as well as other functions. They also feature short cut keys to minimize mouse clicks and make computer work simpler and faster.

Keyboards contain control circuitry that translates key presses into key codes (scancodes) the computer’s electronics can decipher. These codes are then sent directly to the processor of the computer for processing.

The standard keyboard layout is QWERTY, inspired by a typewriter key layout. It consists of alphabetic keys for letters, numerals and special characters.

Furthermore, numeric keys ranging from 0 to 9 can be used for entering arithmetic signs and numerical data.

Function keys, located at the top of most keyboards from F1 to F12, are used for performing specific tasks that have been programmed specifically for them.

Connectivity

Computer keyboards are devices that connect to a computer and allow for data input. With them, users have the capability of typing letters, numbers or symbols into the machine’s input device.

Connecting a keyboard to your computer can be done in several ways. They can either be wired, using either a USB connector, or wireless using Bluetooth technology.

In either case, the computer keyboard utilizes a key matrix that allows it to identify pressed keys and send them on to the main processor of the system. This data is then displayed on-screen as results of user action.

Membrane keyboards operate by electrical contact between the surface of the keyboard and its underlying circuitry when keys are pressed. Membrane keyboards tend to be cheaper to produce and more resistant to dirt and liquid damage than other types of keyboards.

Safety

Computer keyboards can be a breeding ground for germs, bacteria and viruses if not regularly cleaned. This poses an especially high risk in schools where children frequently use these devices and may not always be aware of hygiene regulations.

Studies have demonstrated that computer keyboards can harbor up to five times more bacteria than the toilet seat! This poses a major concern, especially during flu season.

People often neglect to wash their hands after using the restroom, leading to an accumulation of germs on a keyboard.

Furthermore, when people eat near their keyboards, food particles may fall and enter the circuit of the keypad. This is highly hazardous and could prevent one or more keys from working properly.

It is also advised to take breaks from computer use every 15 minutes or so. Doing this helps reduce fatigue and the risk of repetitive strain injuries.