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When computers were still a new uncommon fad, people had no choice over which type of keyboard to get — they had to make do with the keyboard supplied with their computer system. Now, however, people have a choice over which keyboards to use, which hardware to get, and which devices to install in their computers. Computer keyboards can be classified into four general types according to their layout: standard, multimedia, numerical, and ergonomic.
* Standard Keyboard
Standard keyboards are the regular keyboards supplied with most PC purchases. Keys are laid out in straight organized lines and columns. Standard keyboards also include a number pad and an array of command keys and arrow keys.
* Multimedia Keyboard
Multimedia keyboards are improved standard keyboards featuring extra keys that make multimedia software easier to use and navigate. These keyboards usually have a key for launching a media application, keys for increasing and decreasing volume, and keys for playing and pausing media playback. Some multimedia keyboards are designed for heavy Internet users. They feature back and forward buttons and keys for launching email software and certain Web browsers. Some will even contain a navigation wheel bar that makes scrolling faster. Advanced multimedia keyboards will have keys that can be defined to execute a computer command. This is useful for gamers who want to execute a series of actions at the stroke of one key.
* Numerical Keyboard
A numerical keyboard or a number pad simply consists of number keys; keys for basic mathematical operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division; and basic function keys like Delete, End, Home and Insert. These keyboards can stand alone but are usually integrated with the other types of keyboards. Numerical keyboards are always found on standard and multimedia keyboards.
* Ergonomic Keyboard
Ergonomic keyboards were designed to reduce the stress standard keyboards have on the hands of certain computer users. After using standard keyboards for long hours, many people complain of wrist strains and general discomfort with their hands. Research claims that this is due to the awkward hand position required on standard keyboards in order to reach all of the keys. There is no specific standard for ergonomic keyboards. People buy them or have some custom-made to suit their needs.
A standard keyboard will work fine for you in most cases. If you are suffering from strain and hand injury, then you should consider getting an ergonomic keyboard. If you need speed, then you can execute commands faster by getting a multimedia keyboard. Depending on your needs and comforts, there is a keyboard available for you in the market. |