Computer keyboard
In the 1870s, teleprinter-like devices began transmitting stock market data across telegraph lines to ticker machines. Charles Krum and his son Howard developed the modern teleprinter between 1907 and 1910 with early contributions from Frank Pearne. Herman Hollerith created keypunch devices that evolved by the 1930s to include keys for text and number entry similar to typewriters. The ENIAC computer incorporated a keypunch device as both input and paper-based output in its earliest days. The BINAC computer used an electromechanically controlled typewriter for data entry onto magnetic tape instead of paper. Text-only user interfaces remained dominant until the mouse appeared as a consumer device in 1984. Mobile personal computing devices like smartphones now rely on virtual keyboards rather than physical ones.
Most full-size keyboards today follow one of three mechanical layouts: ISO, ANSI, or JIS standards. ANSI standard alphanumeric keyboards feature keys spaced at three-quarter inch centers with travel distances of at least 0.110 inches. Modern keyboards matching US conventions typically contain 104 keys while the 105 key layout dominates elsewhere globally. Tenkeyless designs omit the numeric keypad entirely, replacing it with the alphanumeric section when space is limited. Laptops and notebook computers usually employ scissor switches rather than rubber domes found in desktop models. Flexible keyboards made from silicone allow users to fold them for storage while maintaining water and dust resistance. Handheld ergonomic keyboards like the TrewGrip model emerged around the 28th of July 2009 during Consumer Electronics Show presentations. These handheld units combine game controller bodies with trackball functions for mobile typing scenarios.
First electronic keyboards in the early 1970s used individual switches inserted into metal frames costing between 80 and 120 USD. Reed switches enclosed contacts within vacuum glass capsules affected by magnets mounted on switch plungers became popular choices. Direct-contact key switches introduced mid-1970s offered shorter lifespans rated at ten million cycles due to environmental exposure. Key Tronic Corporation launched capacitive-based switches in 1978 using sponge pads with conductive-coated Mylar plastic sheets. IBM developed buckling spring mechanisms where coil springs buckle under finger pressure triggering hammers that press two plastic membranes together. Key travel distances decreased over time from 0.187 inches down to 0.110 inches as market preferences shifted. Cherry MX Black switches remain common choices for mechanical keyboards featuring fully encased plungers with springs below metallic electrical contacts. Optical keyboard technology utilizes LEDs and photo sensors to detect actuated keys without physical contact points. Hall Effect keyboards use magnets to activate hall sensors while analog keyboards allow varying input based on pressing distance.
Optical character recognition converts existing text images into editable strings of character codes like Google Book Search does today. Speech recognition software transforms spoken words into machine-readable text suitable for medical transcription or legal dictation tasks. Virtual keyboards appear on-screen controlled via mouse clicks or touchscreen taps rather than physical button presses. Projection keyboards project laser images onto flat surfaces then count keystrokes when infrared sensors detect finger touches. Graffiti and Dasher represent pointing devices offering fast access to frequently used characters without traditional layouts. On-screen virtual keyboards included within Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux varieties allow mouse-controlled letter entry. Wireless solar keyboards charge batteries through small panels using natural or artificial light sources instead of standard power supplies.
Unencrypted wireless Bluetooth keyboards face signal theft risks from covert listening devices placed in nearby rooms. Microsoft wireless keyboards released 2011 and earlier documented vulnerabilities allowed packet sniffing to record typed user data. Hardware key loggers attach directly to keyboard cables or install inside standard units to capture keystroke information silently. Software keyloggers gain unauthorized operating system access hooking into hardware functions provided by the host computer. Hackers crack encryption keys securing wireless communications between keyboards and receivers to collect transmitted packets remotely. Electromagnetic signatures emitted by keyboards can be detected using special spying equipment to reconstruct pressed keys from across streets. Neal O'Farrell revealed former spooks captured ATM PINs from vans parked outside simply by decoding electromagnetic signals generated per keystroke. Network monitors alert users whenever applications attempt network connections enabling prevention of logged material transmission over internet lines.
Research suggests upright typing positions formerly advocated lead to degenerative disc disease while 45 degree reclined postures prove healthier for spinal health. Carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive strain injuries affect hands, wrists, arms, necks, and backs through prolonged keyboard use. Users should take frequent short breaks walking around every hour to reduce injury risks significantly. Proper chair height adjustments ensure wrists remain straight without resting on sharp table edges during extended typing sessions. Wrist or palm rests should never be used while actively typing according to ergonomic guidelines. Adaptive technology ranges from special keyboards and pen tablet interfaces to speech recognition software reducing physical strain risks. Vertical mice or joystick mice provide relief compared to standard horizontal designs when switching input devices becomes necessary. Pause software reminds users frequently to stop working and stretch muscles throughout the day preventing cumulative damage.
Common questions
When did Charles Krum and his son Howard develop the modern teleprinter?
Charles Krum and his son Howard developed the modern teleprinter between 1907 and 1910 with early contributions from Frank Pearne.
What are the three mechanical layouts that full-size keyboards follow today?
Most full-size keyboards today follow one of three mechanical layouts: ISO, ANSI, or JIS standards. ANSI standard alphanumeric keyboards feature keys spaced at three-quarter inch centers with travel distances of at least 0.110 inches.
How much did first electronic keyboards cost in the early 1970s?
First electronic keyboards in the early 1970s used individual switches inserted into metal frames costing between 80 and 120 USD. Reed switches enclosed contacts within vacuum glass capsules affected by magnets mounted on switch plungers became popular choices.
Who revealed former spooks captured ATM PINs from vans parked outside simply by decoding electromagnetic signals generated per keystroke?
Neal O'Farrell revealed former spooks captured ATM PINs from vans parked outside simply by decoding electromagnetic signals generated per keystroke. Electromagnetic signatures emitted by keyboards can be detected using special spying equipment to reconstruct pressed keys from across streets.
When was the TrewGrip model released during Consumer Electronics Show presentations?
Handheld ergonomic keyboards like the TrewGrip model emerged around the 28th of July 2009 during Consumer Electronics Show presentations. These handheld units combine game controller bodies with trackball functions for mobile typing scenarios.