Keyboards are external computer hardware similar to a typewriter. They are used to enter text, numbers, character's and give instructions into a PC. Most keyboards are the QWERTY style keyboard which is based on the layout of a typewriter, however, there are different layouts for other countries to support special characters.

Keyboard types

• QWERTY - English
• QWERTZ - German
• AZERTY - French

Typical Keyboard layout

• PC Keyboards consist of 84 - 104 keys and there are 4 types of keys
• Function Keys (Top Row)
• Numeric Keys (2nd Row) Numeric keypad is also on the right-hand side
• Typing Keys (3rd, 4th, 5th row)
• Control Keys (last row)

How do Keyboards work?

When a key on the keyboard is pressed, an electrical circuit is closed and the keyboard sends a signal to the computer that basically tells whether it is a letter, number or a specific symbol, which we would like to be shown on the screen.

Popular keyboards

Ergonomic - They allow more natural hand and arm position reducing the risk of RSI (Repetitive strain injury) these keyboards normally include wrist wrests to maintain a good hand position, they may also be a contoured shape.

Medical - A spill-resistant keyboard ideal in clean rooms and the medical industry. These keyboards can be fully cleaned easily and quickly and have an on-off button so can be switched off for cleaning, they also have a cleaning reminder which you can set, which is important for infection control.

Touchpad - These are normal keypads but incorporate a touchpad mouse, the mouse is controlled easily by the touchpad and normally has 2 mouse keys.

Numeric - Numeric keypad used for frequent numeric entry on PCs or Notebooks

Application Information

Keyboards are an essential device for any PC in the home or office. We offer a wide range of keyboards from compact, ergonomic and medical keyboards that are easy to clean and a choice of connections like USB, Bluetooth or wireless. Browse keyboards in Keyboards and Mouse Sets