What is Keyboards? types of keyboards.

In this article:

> keyboard input devices.

> what is keyboards.

> common keyboards layouts.

> Types of keyboards.

Keyboard Input Devices:

The most common means by which you will input data is through a keyboard.

What is Keyboard?

A keyboard is an input device that looks like a typewriter keyboard but has additional but has additional keys for specific purpose. Among personal computers, the most common keyboard layout is shown in fig. It has 104-108 keys arranged in following five groups.

1. Character keys.

2. Function keys.

3. Special-purpose keys.

4.Numeric keys.

5.Cursor-movement keys.

1. Character keys:

Character Keys: The character keys are used to type in text (letters and numbers, such as A, B, C and 1, 2, 3), punctuation marks (such as ? and ;), and special characters (such as $, *, and #). These keys are positioned in much the same location as the keys on a typewriter. This layout is called the QWERTY layout because the first six characters on the top row of alphabetic keys are Q, W, E, R, T, Y.

Function Keys: The function keys are those labelled F1, F2, F3, and so on, and are used to issue frequently used commands. Ten to twelve function keys are common on keyboards.

What the function keys do exactly is determined by the software you are using at the moment. For example, in most software, F1 is commonly the help key. When you press

it, a screen displays information about using the program.

The users' manual that comes with the software tells you how to use the function keys. Some software manufacturers also supply quick-reference charts to stick on the

keyboard to explain these keys.

2. Special-Purpose Keys: 

Special-purpose keys are used to help enter and edit data and execute commands . These are

1. Enter execute commands: The Enter key, often indicated by a left-facing bent arrow, is used to enter commands into the computer. You will use this one frequently.

2. Ctrl, Alt, Shift-modifiers: Three special-purpose keys are Ctrl (Control), Alt (Alternate), and Shift, which are modifier keys. That is, by themselves they can do nothing, but when pressed with another key, they modify the function of the other key.

3. Del and Ins-editing: The special-purpose keys Del (Delete) and Ins (Insert) are used for editing. They may be regularly used in word processing to erase and add text.

4. Caps Lock-uppercase: The Caps Lock key is used to make all letters keys uppercase-that is, type all CAPITAL LETTERS, as here.

3. Numeric Keys: 

The numeric keys, or numeric keypad, which is usually located on theright side of the keyboard, is the part that looks like an adding machine, with 0 through 9 keys and mathematical operators (+, -, *, and /).

4. Cursor-Movement Keys:

A cursor is the blinking symbol that shows where data may be written next. The cursor can be moved about the screen using the directional arrows on the cursor-movement keys.

Types of keyboard:

A keyboard is an essential part of any computer and mobile device. They come in a variety of forms, sizes, and varieties, but they all have the same function: to facilitate text entry into your device. We'll talk about the various keyboard kinds on the market in this blog article.

1) Keyboard Membrane:

The most popular kind of keyboards are membrane keyboards. They link the keys to the controller using a flexible membrane that has printed electronics. Membrane keyboards might be less responsive and durable than other types of keyboards, although they are often less priced.

2) Mechanical Keyboard:

Both gamers and typewriters choose mechanical keyboards. To give a tactile reaction and a more enjoyable typing experience, they employ separate mechanical switches for each key. While mechanical keyboards can cost more, they are typically more reliable and long-lasting than membrane keyboards.

3) Chiclet Keyboard:

Flat, square keys with rounded corners are found on chiclet keyboards, commonly referred to as island-style keyboards. They are typically seen on laptops and portable electronics. However, they might not offer as much tactile feedback as other keyboard types. Chiclet keyboards are typically quiet, light, and simple to clean.

4) Ergonomic Keyboard:

Ergonomic keyboards are made to ease the stress that typing places on your hands and wrists. They frequently feature curved or split designs that provide a more comfortable typing position. Long-term usage of ergonomic keyboards may be more comfortable, although getting used to them may take some time.

5) Gaming Keyboard:

A keyboard style made especially for gamers is known as a gaming keyboard. These keyboards typically have backlights, programmable keys, and additional features that let players personalise their gaming experience. Additionally, gaming keyboards frequently have anti-ghosting features, quicker response times, and tactile feedback that improves their responsiveness and accuracy. Overall, gaming keyboards can give competitive players a big advantage and can improve the gaming experience for non-competitive players as well.

Gaming keyboards are created particularly for players. They frequently include features like macro functions, illumination, and customizable keys. Gaming keyboards may give you a big edge in competitive gaming, but they are often more expensive than other types of keyboards.

Virtual Keyboard:

A software-based keyboard that displays on the screen of your device is referred to as a virtual keyboard or an on-screen keyboard. Mobile phones and other touchscreen devices frequently employ these keyboards. When you don't have access to a real keyboard, virtual keyboards might be useful. They frequently contain features like autocorrect and predictive text that can make typing simpler. When it comes to composing lengthy papers or emails, virtual keyboards can not be as effective as actual keyboards. They can also occupy a sizable amount of screen real estate, which some users may find bothersome. Virtual keyboards are a helpful tool for touchscreen and mobile devices overall, but they might not be the best option in all circumstances.

On-screen keyboards or virtual keyboards are software-based keyboards that are shown on the screen of your device. They are often utilized on touchscreen PCs and mobile devices. When you don't have access to a real keyboard, virtual keyboards can be useful, but they might not be as effective for typing lengthy texts.

In summary, there are several different types of keyboards on the market, and each one has a unique combination of benefits and drawbacks. Budget should be taken into account while selecting a keyboard, as well as your unique requirements and preferences. There is a keyboard available that can satisfy your demands, whether you're a gamer, a typist, or a casual user.