Computer Keyboard

            

Introduction

           A keyboard is a device used to register keypresses within a panel of keys that helps a user operate a computer or typewriter. In 1878, the original ‘keyboard’ was invented and patented by Christopher Sholes, an American inventor and legislator, and his partner James Densmore (Typing Through Time: Keyboard History). During this time, a keyboard was just fixed keys within a typewriter used to operate the device. However, as time progressed, the typewriter went out of fashion allowing for the keyboard to become something much more different. The keyboard has gone through many evolutions since its inception, such as in 1964 when MIT, Bell Laboratories, and General Electric had worked together to create a new user interface called the video display terminal (VDT). The VDT incorporated the technology of the cathode ray tube into the design of the electric typewriter (Typing Through Time: Keyboard History). This allowed computer users to see what text characters they were typing on their display screens for the first time. However, the most significant evolution occurred in 1986 as IBM released the Model M keyboard. This completely changed the keyboard from what it was to what it is now. This was the first modern computer keyboard to be used in partnership with IBM’s first PC. It was wildly successful as it was easy to use and users didn’t have to convert their typewriters or provide their build of the keyboard to use as an input device for their computers. Keyboards would continue to evolve in minor ways; however, the majority of them occurred in the 1990s when membrane switches began to replace the mechanical key switch, making the keyboard quieter and lighter. Figure #1 below displays the modern-day computer keyboard to be discussed in this paper.

Figure #1: An image of the externals of a computer keyboard. (Kono, 1)

The Body of a Keyboard

           A computer keyboard is a partially hollow, usually rectangular device, with ‘bumps’ or keys on its surface. Figure #1 shows a visual of how the average keyboard looks. Keyboards come in various shapes depending upon the materials used to build it, and size or percent, whether it is a 100%, 96%, 80%, 75%, 65%, or 60% keyboard.  In figure #2, we can see that a keyboard consists of keycaps, switches, plate, PCB, and case, along with keycap stabilizers, which is not included in the image.

Figure #2: This image displays all the components of a computer keyboard. It shows the keycaps, switches, plate, PCB, and case. (TechWithTech, 2021)

Keycaps

           The keycaps of a keyboard are the physical covers placed on top of switches, that provide users with a tactile and visual interface for typing. They come in a variety of materials, designs, and profiles, each offering unique characteristics and aesthetics, and are printed with various letters, numbers, and symbols, which help users to know what to use for certain types of input. Keycaps are attached to the switches and stabilizers of the keyboard

Stabilizers

           Keyboard stabilizers are used to stabilize longer keys, such as the spacebar, enter key, shift keys, and sometimes larger modifier keys like backspace or the zero key on a computer or keyboard’s number pad. Stabilizers are attached to the keycaps, switches, and PCB of a keyboard.

Switches

           Keyboard switches facilitate the actuation of the keyboard, and allows a device to register each keypress, they also allow for faster and more accurate typing. Switches also provide a sort of feel when a key is pressed, this can be linear, tactile, or clicky. Switches are attached to the keycaps, stabilizers, and the PCB of a keyboard.

Plate

           A keyboard plate is used to provide structural support for the switches and keycaps, ensuring they are securely mounted and aligned properly. This helps prevent wobbling or misalignment during typing, which can improve the overall typing experience and durability of the keyboard. The plate is attached to the case, PCB, and switches of a keyboard.

PCB

           A keyboard PCB, or Printed Circuit Board, is a fundamental component that serves as the electronic backbone of the device. The PCB allows for the interconnection of all of the components in a keyboard. The PCB is attached to the case and plate of a keyboard.

Case

           A keyboard case is the external housing or enclosure that surrounds and protects the internal components of a keyboard. The case is attached to every other part of the keyboard.

Function of a Keyboard

           A keyboard is an input device used for typing and executing commands on a device. It includes a set of keys in a certain order, consisting of alphanumeric keys, characteristic keys, and modifier keys (ex. Shift, Ctrl, and Alt keys). Each key corresponds to a selected character, image, or motion, and pressing a key sends a signal to the laptop, which then registers each key press. Keyboards allow users to engage with computer systems, perform data entry, navigate through software interfaces, and execute numerous functions that rely upon software programs. You can find keyboards in several different layouts and designs tailored to any person’s distinctive tastes. Overall, keyboards are fundamental in facilitating communication and interaction among users on computer systems.

Figure #4: An image of a person pressing a key on a keyboard. (Batt, 2020)

Conclusion

           In conclusion, the keyboard has seen significant development since its creation in 1878, going from a basic typewriter component to a powerful input device that is essential to modern computers. Advancements in the keyboard continued in the 1990s, with the introduction of membrane switches, leading to smaller and quieter keyboards. The structure of the keyboard, which includes keycaps, stabilizers, switches, plates, PCBs, and casings, reflects its complex design. These components all work together to give users a tactile and responsive typing experience. Each component is essential to maintaining the keyboard’s performance and strength. Moreover, the keyboard’s functionality goes beyond just typing; it serves as an essential input device for carrying out tasks and interacting with software interfaces. The keyboard is a versatile tool that comes in various layouts and designs tailored to fulfill every person’s exact desires.

References

All the Parts of a Mechanical Keyboard Explained. (2022, May 12). Das Keyboard. https://www.daskeyboard.com/blog/parts-of-a-mechanical-keyboard/

A Beginner’s Guide to Switches. (n.d.). ThereminGoat. https://www.theremingoat.com/blog/beginners-guide

Batt, Simon. (2020, November 15). How to Turn Off Sticky Keys. MUO. https://www.makeuseof.com/turn-off-sticky-keys/

Hexgears Venture — Low-Profile Bluetooth Mechanical Keyboard. (n.d.). Kono Store. Retrieved March 3, 2024, from https://kono.store/products/venture-mechanical-keyboard

Mechanical Keyboard Parts: Names and Functions? (+ Graphic). (2021, October 23). Tech with Tech. https://techwithtech.com/mechanical-keyboard-parts/

MelGeek MJ65 65% Keyboard PCBA Hotswappable. (n.d.). MelGeek. Retrieved March 3, 2024, from https://www.melgeek.com/products/melgeek-mj65-hotswappable-rgb-pcba

MelGeek Plate CNC for GH60 Mechanical Keyboard MJ6X MJ6Y Anodized Electrophoretic Aluminum Customized Positioning Plate. (n.d.). MelGeek. Retrieved March 3, 2024, from https://www.melgeek.com/products/melgeek-aluminum-customized-positioning-plate

Savage65 Keyboard Case. (n.d.). CannonKeys. Retrieved March 3, 2024, from https://cannonkeys.com/products/savage65?variant=31174883180655

TX AP Screw-in Stabilizers. (n.d.). Divinikey. Retrieved March 3, 2024, from https://divinikey.com/collections/keyboard-stabilizers/products/tx-ap-screw-in-stabilizers

Typing Through Time: Keyboard History. (2019, June 19). Das Keyboard.com.