Keyboard (computer) facts for kids

A QWERTY computer keyboard in US layout.

A computer keyboard is an input device that allows a person to enter letters, numbers, and other symbols (these are called characters) into a computer. It is one of the most used input devices for computers. Using a keyboard to enter lots of data is called typing.

A keyboard contains many mechanical switches or push-buttons called "keys". When one of these are pushed, an electrical circuit is closed, and the keyboard sends a signal to the computer that tells it what letter, number or symbol it would like to be shown on the screen. The computer's CPU then shows the character on the screen, usually at the place where the cursor is. Besides entering characters, computer keyboards also have keys that change the symbol (such as shift or caps lock) or gives the computer special commands (such as the arrow keys, CTRL and ALT). These keys depend on the operating system which the keyboard is being used on.

A keyboard can be joined to a computer using a wire, but can also be wireless (like those that use Bluetooth). Today, most keyboards that use wires connect to a USB port on the computer, but older ones use a type of port called PS/2, which is slower than USB.

Types

This picture shows the way keys are laid out on a keyboard in the United States.

There are different types of keyboards. They can be based on the way the keys work; for example, laptops have keys that don't move a lot, because the keyboard has to be very thin in order to fit inside the laptop. On the other hand, video gamers like keyboards with keys that move a lot, so that they feel if the key works and the game is working. In between, an ergonomic keyboard is made to be easier for people to use, without hurting their hands or arms.

There are also different ways the keys on a keyboard are laid out, usually to deal with different regions and languages of the world. The most popular layout is called QWERTY, which is based on the first six letters on typewriter keyboards. The QWERTY design was made so the most common letters would not make a mechanical typewriter "jam", or stop working. Now, even though most people don't use typewriters anymore, the design stayed because people were used to it. Other layous have been developed, including the Dvorak keyboard, which puts the most common letters in the places that are easiest to reach.

Risks

Keystroke logging is capturing a record of each key that is pressed. Keystroke logging can be used to measure employee activity. Hackers can also use keystroke logging. Scientists discovered that most keyboards give off electromagnetic radiation that can be used to tell which keys have been pressed. Spies could determine what has been typed by remotely sensing such signals.

Researchers are studying if keyboards can spread diseases. Some keyboards were found to contain five times more germs than a toilet seat.

Related pages

• Computer mouse
• QWERTY
• Dvorak keyboard

Images for kids

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  Keyboard keys

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  A wired computer keyboard for desktop use manufactured by Lenovo

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  Keyboards on laptops usually have a shorter travel distance and a reduced set of keys.

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  An AlphaGrip handheld keyboard

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  Multifunction keyboard with LCD function keys

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  Multifunction keyboard with touch

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  A Greek keyboard lets the user type in both Greek and the Latin alphabet (MacBook Pro).

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  The Control, Windows, and Alt keys are important modifier keys.

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  A Space-cadet keyboard has many modifier keys.

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  4800-52 mainframe / dumb terminal keyboard, circa mid 1980s. Note the obscure configuration of modifier and arrow keys, line feed key, break key, blank keys, and repeat key.

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  Multimedia buttons on some keyboards give quick access to the Internet or control the volume of the speakers.

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  Backlit keyboard

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  Keys with integrated LED indicator lights

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  Keyboard with some keytops removed to show the Cherry MX "Black" switches it is based on. MX switches are a common choice for mechanical keyboards.

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  The tactile, non-clicky "brown" version of the Cherry MX switch shown in disassembled form (four parts, left and centre), with the top off (top right) and reassembled (bottom right).

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  Scanning procedure

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  Apple wireless keyboard

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  On-screen keyboard controlled with the mouse can be used by users with limited mobility

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  Proper ergonomic design of computer keyboard desks is necessary to prevent repetitive strain injuries, which can develop over time and can lead to long-term disability. Research suggests that the upright position formerly advocated can lead to degenerative disc disease, and that a 45 degree reclined position is healthier.

See also

In Spanish: Teclado (informática) para niños