The Computer Keyboard

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The Computer Keyboard

• Computer Technology 3200
• PC Architecture
• By Brittany Collins

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Introduction

• The keyboard is the main input hardware used by
  all computers.
• Set of typewriter-like keys enable data to be
  entered into the computer.

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History of the Keyboard

• Began with the typewriter
• Christopher Latham Sholes
• 1868

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From Typewriter to Keyboard

• 1868 Typewriter
• 1930 Teletype Machine
• 1931 Keypunch Cards
• 1946 Eniac Computer- punch card
• 1948 Biniac Computer- electromechanical
  typewriter
• - Electric typewriters eventually lead to the
  computer keyboard we use today.

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From Typewriter to Keyboard

• Both devices have
• - All letters of alphabet
• - Numbers 0 9
• - Special operational keys

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The Keyboard Today

• Standard keyboard layout of letters, numbers, and
  punctuation is known as a QWERTY keyboard
• The first six keys of the top row of letters
  spell QWERTY.

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How the Keyboard Works

• Keyboards own processor and circuitry
• Carries information to and from that processor

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• Most of the circuitry makes up a key matrix
• This circuit grid lays beneath the keys
• When a key is pressed, the circuit is complete

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• Processor recognizes closed circuit
• Compares location of circuit on key matrix to
  character map in ROM
• Character map allows key combinations
• Ex shift b B when pressed
  simultaneously

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New Designs Modifications

• Ergonomic keyboards eliminate high-stress
  postures which contribute to stress injuries, ex.
  Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Safetype Keyboard
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• Other non-traditional keyboards include designs
  that aid people with disabilities.
• Braille keyboards allow the sight impaired to
  type by recognizing Braille keys instead.

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Maintenance Cleaning

• FIRST, disconnect the
• keyboard from the computer
• Use a Q-tip slightly dampened with alcohol to
  clean between keys
• A dusting cloth to clean dust out of crevices

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• Remove keys with screwdriver for thorough
  cleaning
• REMEMBER where the keys belong!
• Use a can of compressed air to blast away dust
  and dirt

Unorton Washable Keyboard
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References

• 1. History of the Computer Keyboard
• http//inventors.about.com/od/computer
  periherals/a/computer_keyboa.htm
• About, Inc., A part of The New York Times
  Company
• 2. Computer Hardware
• www.computerhope.com/help/ keyboard.htm
• 3. Keyboard
• www.webopedia.com/TERM/k/keyboard.htm

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• References Continued
• 4. Inside The Keyboard
• http//computer.howstuffworks.com/
  keyboard2.htm
• 5. Hooleon Keyboards
• http//www.hooleon.com/menu-vision.htm
• 6. Unorton Washable Products
• http//www.unotron.com/US/Products.html