Different Types of Computer Keyboards

Computer keyboards are the gateway between you and your computer. They allow users to communicate on the Internet as well as create documents for school, business and personal reasons. The model, style and capability of a computer keyboard impacts the economic value of the tool. There are simple keyboards that allow you to do no more than type words onto a monitor screen, similar to a typewriter. There are also keyboards that allow you to save your favorite websites with the click of a button. Depending on your needs, one type of keyboard may be more valuable than another. The choices are plenty.

Standard Types

Keyboards arrange the alphabet in two standard formations: QWERTY or AZERTY. One look at the top left alphabetic row of your keyboard and you can see the formation. Typists are familiar with these alphabet arrangements as all basic typing courses cover the designs. If you only plan to typewrite documents, create spreadsheets, surf the Internet and create and send emails using your computer keyboard, a standard keyboard will suffice. Popular standard keyboards include 53 to 104-key PS/2, Hewlett Packard desktop, Logitech Labtec, Kensington, Dell Standard or Dell Quiet. Some keyboards come with a compatible mouse. There are also standard ergonomic keyboards which allow for increased comfort.

Standard Features

Older standard keyboards come with alphabet and numeric keys. In addition standard keyboards include Escape (Esc), Print Screen, Scroll-Lock, Pause-Break, Arrow and other functional keys. Functional keys allow you to tab, type in all caps, insert, delete and perform countless other functions.

Newer standard keyboards also come with Internet short cut keys. These keys allow you to check your email with the click of a button, store your favorite web sites and power on and off the Internet. Standard keyboards are also ready for use with a USB port. You can also choose between a variety of colors when selecting a standard keyboard.

Standard Keyboard Benefits

Standard keyboards do not require extensive technological knowledge to operate. If you're familiar with a typewriter keyboard, you can quickly adjust to a standard computer keyboard. Cost of a standard keyboard is reasonable. Generally standard keyboards cost between $10 and $30.

Multi-Functional Keyboards

When it comes to multi-functional keyboards, the choices are many. There are programmable keyboards with up to 130-keys, large print keyboards, multiple language keyboards, cordless keyboards and compact keyboards. The video LCD panel sits inside the center of the keyboard.

Multi-functional Attributes

Multi-functional modular keyboards allow you to control two or more computers with the punch of a button. Keyboards with a video system allow you to watch your favorite video while you type. Smartcard keyboards allow you to shop or conduct business online with an added sense of security. Smartcards limit access to your banking accounts and other business and financial accounts by only allowing a user with your encrypted Smartcard to access those accounts. Multi-functional keyboards are also available in compact and slim sizes.

Multi-functional Advantages

Multi-functional keyboards allow users to perform a variety of functions with the punch of a button. They can allow for added security and if in compact or slim size are easy to carry. Multi-functional keyboards cost between $40 to more than $100.

It is important that a keyboard be compatible with your computer's operating system. Additionally, keep in mind that whichever keyboard you choose you can extend the life of your keyboard by regularly keeping it clean. Keyboard covers also help to keep debris off the keys which can extend the life of your keyboard.