Definition of a Computer Keyboard

The keyboard allows a user to input information.

The computer is a complex machine made up of numerous fittings--one of the most important being the computer keyboard. Practically all computing systems have a keyboard. Although these keyboards may range in size and appearance, they generally serve the same function.

General Definition

A computer keyboard is a device used to input information into a computing system. The computer keyboard uses buttons--often referred to as keys--that allow the user to input or type the information.

Design

The QWERTY keyboard layout is most common.

A computer keyboard has an array of keys. These keys allow for data, such as letters, numbers or punctuation, to be input on the computer when pressed by the user. The key is typically labeled with the letter or function it will input into the computer. The standard computer keyboard layout is known as the QWERTY keyboard, because these are the first six letters on the top row of a keyboard. Variants on the QWERTY design exist, such as the Dvorak Simplified Keyboard layout.

Further Functions

Along with inputting letters, numbers and punctuation, the computer keyboard can perform more complex functions. For instance, the "Caps Lock" key tells the computer system to turn on/off capital lettering. The "Esc" key can cancel operations. The "Page Up" or "Page Down" keys scroll on-screen documents. A keyboard also can conduct shortcut commands. For example, pressing "Ctrl" plus "C" while highlighting a piece of text tells the computer to copy said text. There are numerous other specific shortcut commands for specific software. A computer keyboard can have specialty keys that launch certain computer programs or Internet functions.

References

• Internet.com: What is keyboard? - A Word Definition From the Webopedia Computer Dictionary