A computer keyboard is a device used to input characters, numbers and symbols into a computer. When a key is pressed, it closes an electrical circuit and sends a code to the computer that corresponds to the symbol, number or symbol that was pressed.

Most keyboards also have special keys that act as modifiers when pressed in combination with another key. These keys can be found on the right side of the keyboard.

Computer keyboard is a device used to input characters, numbers and symbols into a computer. When a key is pressed, it closes an electrical circuit and sends a code to the computer that corresponds to the symbol, number or symbol that was pressed.

Most keyboards also have special keys that act as modifiers when pressed in combination with another key. These keys can be found on the right side of the keyboard.

Keyboard layout

The keyboard layout of a computer is the arrangement of keys and their functions. It varies by language, user preference, and computer software. It may be defined by the physical layout of keys and their legends or by a functional layout determined in software.

Keyboards contain alphanumeric keys for typing letters and symbols, arrow keys, and a numeric keypad. Some keyboards also have special keys like the control and Windows key, which can perform specific tasks when pressed in combination with other keys.

Most keyboards follow the QWERTY layout based on typewriters, but there are many other versions including Dvorak for languages other than English and Colemak, which is designed to increase typing speed. It uses an angled surface that places the keys closer to the wrists to reduce finger fatigue.

Keys

The keys on a computer keyboard are the main way to enter information into a computer. They include alphabetic, numeric, punctuation, and symbol keys, and sometimes arrow and navigation keys. The repertoire of glyphs engraved on these keys often reflects national conventions and language needs.

Some of the keys may have additional functions when pressed in combination with other keys. For example, the "enter" key is based on the line feed/carriage return function of mechanical typewriters, but it also ends an editing line in word processors and advances the text cursor to the next available row in data spreadsheets.

Each time a key is pressed, it sends a scan code to the operating system. The operating system interprets the scan code to determine which character to print.

Membrane keyboard

Membrane keyboards are an affordable option for anyone looking to avoid the click-clack of mechanical keyboards. They also tend to be lighter and quieter, making them ideal for workplace environments. However, they do not offer the same typing experience as mechanical keyboards. Their lack of key rollover makes them a poor choice for those who type quickly or play PC games.

They work by having pressure-sensitive layers embedded in a flexible membrane layer. When a key is pressed, the layers touch down to metal ends located at the bottom of the keyboard, which completes the circuit and registers a command to the computer. This allows the keyboard to have a lightweight design and be more resistant to dirt and liquids than other types of keyboards.

Thumb keyboard

A thumb keyboard is a small physical keyboard that connects to a computer via USB and is designed for use by the left or right thumb of the user. These keyboards are ideal for handheld devices, console gamers and other places where a regular keyboard can't be used.

The keyboard can be joined to a computer either by a wire or wirelessly (using Bluetooth). It can also be connected to other peripherals, such as mice and speakers. Some keyboards have special functions that can be used to perform specific tasks, such as copying and pasting text or controlling other computer hardware. Keyboards are also available with ergonomic features, which help prevent strain on the fingers and wrists. These keyboards can be especially helpful for those who spend a lot of time typing.

Keyboard technology

Keyboard technology determines what happens when a key is pressed. The physical switches inside computer keyboards close an electrical circuit when a key is pressed, sending a signal to the computer. This signal is interpreted by the computer and displays a character, number or symbol on the screen.

The most common computer keyboards use either flat-panel membrane or full-travel dome switch technology. Both technologies have one-piece plastic keytops/switch plungers that press down to actuate contacts in an electrical switch matrix.

This type of switch design does not provide tactile feedback, so keyboards that use it typically have indicator lights or beeps to let users know that a key has been pressed. This is especially important for computer games, which can be frustrating to play with no indication that a keystroke has been registered.