PC KEYBOARDS

The "keyboard" is the primary input device for a user. It is similar to a typewriter keyboard as for as its key locations; however, a computer keyboard has many extra keys which perform special functions.

There have been several "types" of keyboards developed over the years, and also several "layouts" of the keys on the keyboard. The "types" are as follows:

  1. 83-key. It is the oldest PC keyboard, called the XT keyboard. It has a poor design from the standpoint of few control keys, the RETURN (ENTER) and shift keys were too small, and had poor location of some keys.

  2. 84-key. It was introduced in 1984 with the "AT" PC. It had better sized RETURN and SHIFT keys, a more isolated key pad, and some special purpose keys.

  3. 101-Key Enhanced Keyboard. Introduced in 1986 with IBM's RISC based "RT PC". It has remained very much the standard until 1996-1997. It may often actually have minor revisions that have more than 101 keys.

  4. 104-Key Enhanced Windows Keyboard. It changes from the 101-Key model by adding 3 extra keys - "Left window, right window, and an Application" keys.

These types of keyboards have been produced using different key layouts, the most significant being the "QWERTY" layout, identified by the first row of alphabetic keys on the left side spelling the "QWERTY". The "QWERTY" layout was originally developed in the 1870's when typewriters were first developed, and it has remained the dominant layout, probably because most people learn to type on typewriters with this keyboard. Other layouts should as the "Dvorak" have been introduced to show faster typing was possible. But, none have gained significant popularity.

Newer keyboard products being marketed are ergonomically designed. The following is a picture of the "MicroSoft Natural Keyboard". This keyboard was introduced by Microsoft in late 1994. It features were designed for more comfortable use, and secondly, to add to the Microsoft Windows-based computing environment. It has 3 new keys, which allow quick access to active applications through a graphical "task manager". The "Natural" is a designed resulting from serious research studies. You can find the full discussion in the Microsoft Web page on the Internet.

Courtesy MicroSoft Corporation.

Basic PC Components