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Keyboards

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The keyboard is a typical input device for personal computers and is also used as a game controller for many computer games. The keyboard features typewriter type keys that enable you to enter data into the computer. Keyboards typically have characters that are engraved or printed on the keys and each press of the key corresponds with a single written symbol. You may have to press or hold several keys simultaneously, or in sequence, to produce the symbol. The computer keyboard contains keys that were not found on the original typewriter such as function keys, arrow keys, and control keys. There are also keys on the keyboard that does not produce a symbol but affect the operation of the computer or keyboard. A keyboard is a lot like a miniature computer with its own processor and circuitry that carries information to and from the processor. As you type, the processor in the keyboard analyzes they key matrix and decides which characters to send to the computer. The characters are maintained in the memory buffer and then send the data.

There are three types of PC keyboards:

• The original keyboard featuring 84 keys.
• The AT keyboard also featuring 84 keys.
• The enhanced keyboard featuring 101 keys.

It is important that you try out keyboards to find the one that is comfortable for your hands. Most computer keyboards are so inexpensive that they are considered disposable. Generic keyboards cost in the range of twenty dollars, so if you have a problem with the keyboard it is easiest to just dispose of it and buy another.

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