The Difference Between a Typewriter and a Computer Keyboard

Although it is most common to use computers these days, you can still buy a typewriter. If you are not familiar with typewriters, you should know that there are a few differences between typewriters and computer keyboards.

Mechanics

According to course materials for a class at Eastern Mennonite University, computer keyboards use a key matrix-a system of wires that creates a complete circuit when you press a key. The circuit's location tells the computer's processor which letter to display on the monitor.

A typewriter prints letters on paper by striking an ink ribbon with a reversed letter that is on an arm in manual typewriters or a ball in electric ones. Manual typewriters feature a moving carriage that you must push back when you reach your paper's margin.

Special Computer Keys

Computer keyboards have several keys that typewriters do not, including the "F" or "Function," "Number Lock," "Escape," "Control" and "Alt" keys. Computer keyboards also feature navigation keys such as "Page Up" and "Page Down," and "Windows" or "Apple" keys.

Layout

Most computer keyboards have a number keypad on the right and numbers along the top. Typewriters do not have the keypad. Some typewriters do not have a "1" key, so you use a lower-case letter "L" instead. Both the keyboard and the typewriter use the "QWERTY" layout for letters and punctuation.

Fonts and Colors

Computer keyboards offer nearly limitless font and color options. Typewriters may use a dual-color ribbon to give you two colors. You may replace the ball on electric typewriters to change fonts.

Power Requirements

You need electricity to use an electric typewriter or a computer keyboard (even a laptop uses electricity stored in its battery). Manual typewriters require no electricity.

References

• Eastern Mennonite University: Computer Keyboards
• Tias.com: Manual Typewriters
• MyTypewriter.com: Electric Typewriter