Computer Keyboard

One of the most important parts of your computer

It's safe to say that without a keyboard for your computer, you're going to have a hard time using it. A computer keyboard allows you to input information into your machine, provides access to certain programs and icons and includes hotkeys that provide shortcuts to applications. Keyboards come in all shapes and sizes and include all manner of bells and whistles. As a consumer, choosing a PC keyboard is important – this will be your main method of communication with your computer.

A basic full-sized keyboard comes with a QWERTY alphanumeric typeset and a number pad. It will also include a row of function keys and sometimes the ability to adjust volume and media. It connects to your computer via a USB port. If your computer is one that requires a keyboard to connect via a PS/2 port, you can still find these models. However, in most cases you will need USB ports.

You can find keyboards that connect wirelessly to your computer. These allow you greater range of motion and are great if you have a small space and no room for a lot of cables. A wireless keyboard is very popular. A Bluetooth keyboard is a specialized wireless keyboard that uses the power of Bluetooth wireless technology to connect to your computer. This means that you don't need any wireless adapters hooked up to your machine; if your computer is Bluetooth-enabled, you can use your keyboard anywhere without wires.

Must-Have Features

  • Ergonomic keyboards (the keypad is split in half) are more comfortable and reduce the risk of injury to the wrists and hands.
  • Wrist rests are useful if you are typing for hours a day.
  • Built-in mouse pads are great if you're working from a laptop and need a keyboard on the go.
  • Built-in multimedia controls make it easier to listen to music or watch videos.
  • USB ports and programmable hotkeys make bringing up applications and plugging in much-used accessories easier.

Major Considerations

  • How much will I use my keyboard? Is an ergonomic keyboard better?
  • Do I want to go wireless?
  • Do I want a built-in mouse?
  • Is this keyboard comfortable, no matter how long I use it?
  • Will I use any of the extra features on the keyboard?

Top Manufacturers

  • HP
  • Logitech
  • Sony
  • Toshiba

Common Accessories or Add-Ons

  • Wrist rests
  • Mouse
  • Mouse pad
  • Keyboard protector

Price Range

Keyboards can be bought separately from mice, for $20 and up. If you choose a deluxe keyboard or an ergonomic style, the price will be slightly higher. A mouse-and-keyboard package can cost up to $100, depending on the brand and the features the input devices have.

Summary

Choose a keyboard that has USB ports, a full QWERTY keyboard and number pad, and programmable hotkeys. If you use your computer a lot, an ergonomic keyboard will save your wrists and fingers from carpal tunnel syndrome. Extras like the ability to control music and video can be added to your model if you wish. Either way, a good keyboard should last for the life of your computer, or even longer.

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To help stop your Repetitive Strain Injuries make sure to try out the Dvorak keyboard layout. It is scientifically designed to put the most used keys on the home row with the letters that are used the most right under the most agile fingers. The facts are amazing. For instance in an eight hour day of typing your fingers will travel between 16 and 20 miles back and forth between rows on the old out dated Qwerty style keyboard. On the more recent Dvorak keyboard that same figure is one mile or less. That means that in one year your fingers will travel more that 5,000 miles on the Qwerty and less than 365 miles on a Dvorak. For more information check out the: Light of the World Prophecy Fulfillment Place
Posted on 2/28/2012 9:54:00 AM
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Posted on 9/26/2011 12:10:00 PM