What is Keyboard? | How many types of keyboards are there?

ProgramingsPoint

6 Oct, 2023

Today in this article you will get information about Keyboard. Almost all computer users use a keyboard. It helps us to run the computer. Do you know the full name of the Keyboard? No, then in this article you will know about the types of keyboards and the main functions of keyboards.

Who invented the keyboard? We will also learn about Yani (History) and how to use the keyboard? And we will also learn about the types of keyboard interfaces. So let's start.

Do you know, Christopher Latham Sholes (14 Feb 1819 – 17 Feb 1890) was an American inventor who invented the QWERTY Keyboard. And he is known as “ The Father of the Typewriter ”. So now what is a keyboard? Know about it.

What is a keyboard? Definition

The keyboard is an input device of a computer. With its help, any information or any command is entered in digital form into the computer, due to which the computer easily understands the entered information and also gives you the answer again.

The keyboard is an important part of the computer. It helps us in making the computer work at a faster speed. With a keyboard, we do more work in less time. You know very well that only one device is used the most for typing, namely the computer keyboard.

A standard keyboard has 101 to 104 keys. Which is connected to the computer through a PS2 or USB cable. Nowadays modern keyboards come wireless which are connected with Bluetooth or WiFi receiver.

What is Keyboard Full Form?

The full name of the keyboard is: “ Keys Electronic Yet Board Operating A to Z Response Directly ”.

What is your typing speed on a keyboard, do tell me in the comments. What? You know that typing speed is measured in WPM (Word Per Minute). Here Word Per Minute means how many words you type in one minute.

Who invented the keyboard? (History)

Before the keyboard was invented, the typewriter was invented. A typewriter is called Chhapa Khana in Hindi. The typewriter which was initially manufactured. It had keys in the same order from A, B, C to Z. Due to this typing was very slow. Apart from this, it also did not have Backspace Keys. Due to this people faced a lot of difficulty in typing.

To overcome this problem, Christopher Latham Sholes (14 Feb 1819 – 17 Feb 1890) was an American inventor who invented the QWERTY Keyboard. And he is known as “The Father of the Typewriter”. The same QWERTY keyboard was further improved over time, due to which it is called a standard keyboard.

Nowadays, a standard keyboard has 101 to 104 keys. Which is connected to the computer through PS2 or USB cable. But at that time, due to limited features provided in the computer, less than 100 keys were installed.

How many types of keyboards are there?

There are many types of Computer Keywords. For example: Mechanical Keyboard, Multimedia Keyboards, QWERTY Keyboards, USB Keyboard, Wireless Keyboard, and Gaming Keyboard etc.

Keyboard and mouse are examples of input devices, further, you will learn about different types of keyboards.

Know about 15 types of keyboards

Below you have been told about 15 types of keyboards. About which you may be curious to know.

1) QWERTY Keyboards

This is a common type of keyboard, which almost all normal computer users use. Since in early computers, the arrangement of keys was QWERTY in a single row. For this reason, it has been named QWERTY.

2) Mechanical Keyboard

This is the oldest keyboard model. When the keyboard was not invented, there were mechanical typewriters. The keyboard has been made by updating the same mechanical typewriter.

In a mechanical keyboard, the keys are fitted mechanically, when you press the keys, the keys hit the electronic circuit installed in the keyboard, and again an electronic signal is generated. Which signal is later received by the computer? And this is how you see text written on the computer display.

3) Wireless Keyboard

As its name suggests, this type of keyboard is wireless, which is connected to the computer or laptop through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

It is lightweight and in small size. It consists of a transmitter and a transceiver for communication. The function of the transmitter is to send the data of pressed keys, which we can also call input data, to the receiver.

The receiver transmits the input data back to the computer, and the computer then shows the text to you on the display. The transmitter is inside the keyboard and the receiver is connected to the laptop through a USB port.

4) Virtual Keyboard

Virtual Keyboard is also called an On-Screen Keyboard. Because as its name suggests, it is not a physical keyboard. For example Keyboard or mobile or tablet etc. Similarly, an On-Screen Keyboard is also provided in computers or laptops.

You can use it in different conditions. For example: Suppose you do not have a physical keyboard or it is damaged, then you can type using a Virtual Keyboard.

Apart from this, it is also used virtually to enter secret information like your password is done.

5) USB Keyboard

USB Keyboard is a type of Wired Keyboard, which is used by almost all normal computer users nowadays. The full name of the USB is Universal Serial Bus.

This type of keyboard is called a USB keyboard because it uses a USB port to communicate with your computer. Which is USB (2.0, 3.0), etc.

But many times when you install a new operating system, the keyboard does not operate, this is because the correct driver is not installed in your laptop, then you should install it.

6) Gaming Keyboard

As its name suggests, this game is made for playing. If you are also a gamer then the keyboard is very useful for you. In this, all the buttons which are used to play the game are given.

This type of keyboard is specially designed to enhance the gaming experience, which can increase your chances of winning the game. Gaming Keyboard is a boon for all those gamers who spend hours playing their games.

7) Membrane Keyboard

These keyboards use a pressure pad and have characters printed on a flexible surface called a membrane. The price of these keyboards is very low. But they make a lot of mistakes in typing and gaming, and for this reason, their importance is very high.

8) Thumb Keyboard

As its name suggests, the size of this type of keyboard is equal to a thumb, hence it is called a Thumb Keyboard. Very few keys are used in this type of keyboard, most of which are numeric keys that are used for calculations (Arithmetic Operations). Or most of those keys are given for gaming.

9) Backlit Keyboard

Since light is used in this type of keyboard, it is called a Backlit Keyboard. Backlit helps in typing in dark times. There is not much difference between a Backlit Keyboard and a General Purpose Keyboard. In these, LED light is used below the keys.

10) Bluetooth Keyboard

This is a type of wireless keyboard. Since Bluetooth Connectivity Technology is used for communication between your keyboard and computer, hence it is called Bluetooth Keyboard.

These types of keyboards are very portable. Here portable means that you can connect the same keyboard with multiple devices. For example, you can use a Bluetooth keyboard with your laptop, desktop, tablet, Chromebook, iPad, iPhone, Apple TV 2nd or 3rd generation Android, etc.

11) Magic Keyboard

These types of keyboards are manufactured by MAC Company and are supported by battery. Since their design is good and features are also provided, it makes it feel like a Magic Keyboard.

12) Ergonomic Keyboard

By definition, ergonomic means anything that is optimized for the health of the human body.

So just like its name suggests, an Ergonomic Keyboard is usually designed to provide more comfort and increase typing speed with a relaxed posture. These keyboards also avoid strain on your hands, wrists, and fingers.

If you also work on the keyboard for hours, and your overwork or wrong typing posture causes pain. So Ergonomic Keyboard is the best option for you. Because there is a lot of difference in this keyboard compared to other keyboards.

It is designed in an advanced manner so that the user can do his work in a more comfortable and relaxed typing position.

13) Multimedia Keyboard

As its name suggests, the keyboard which has all the multimedia buttons is called Multimedia Keyboard. This type of keyboard is mostly used in the Multimedia Industry for fast audio-video production.

The buttons include Play, Pause, Next, Previous, Volume UP, Volume Down, Mute, and special buttons to launch Audio-Video. Apart from this, a button is available to launch the browser, media software, calculator, etc.

14) LASER Projection Keyboard

Its full name is Wireless Mini Projection Virtual Bluetooth Laser Keyboard. This is the latest, advanced, and futuristic keyboard. You can see this in the image below.

A special type of LASER is used for this keyboard. This laser produces a virtual keyboard on a flat surface. The numeric and alphabet keys remain on the same virtual keyboard.

On touching the keys with the finger, the LASER device records the data, and again reaches the computer, due to which you are able to see the text on the screen.

This type of keyboard is very expensive, and you will not find it available in all markets right now, because this type of keyboard is the beginning of the future.

15) Portable Keyboard

It is also called Portable Keyboard Wireless Bluetooth Folding. Let us explain to you the meaning of its big name. This keyboard is foldable. Meaning you can fold it and keep it in your pocket or a small bag. So that it is also called a portable keyboard.

Portable means that you can easily take this keyboard from one place to another and you can also connect it with any device. Its price is also higher than a normal keyboard.

So these are the 15 types of keyboards in our list, now what are the parts of the keyboard? Know about it.

What is the function of a keyboard?

The main function of the keyboard is to enter input data into the computer. So that the computer can interpret that data and provide you its output. Which you see on your computer monitor or display.

Apart from this, the keyboard is also used especially for typing and running the computer at a faster speed.

Information about keyboard buttons

You will know about the types of buttons or keys on the keyboard below. As you know there are different types of keys in a keyboard. Which is used for different purposes.

IMAGE CREDIT: ALL ABOUT COMPUTER

For example: You use Numeric Keys to type numerical digits (0-9) in the computer. Similarly, you move the cursor here and there on the computer screen using cursor keys.

Types of keyboard buttons/keys

Escape Key: The Escape Key is a function key on the keyboard. It is used to execute or abort a continuous or sequential operation.
Tab Key: It is used as a command to move from one element to another. Apart from this, it is also used to give space between one letter and another.
Alt Key: The Alt key is used in combination with one or more other keys to perform various commands in most computer programs, including word processing and web browsers.
Ctrl Key: The CTRL key also works in conjunction with other keys like the Alt key. For example, “CTRL+C” or “CTRL+V” has many different uses.
Space Bar Key: This is used to give a space while writing.
Enter Key: This is used for consent.
Caps Lock Key: It is used to type capitalized or capitalized letters by locking them.
Shift Key: This is a modifier key on a computer or typewriter keyboard.
Backspace Key: Using this you can delete the previously typed letter.
Cursor Key: It is also called Arrow Keys, it is used to move the cursor forward, backward, right, and left.
Numeric Keys: Keys from 0-1 are called numerical keys.
Alphabet Keys: Keys up to A-Z are called Alphabet Keys. Using this you can write anyone's name.
Function Keys: F1 to F12 are called function keys, they complete a particular command. For example, F1: Show Help, F2: Rename File.
Special Key: It is not given on all keyboards.
Windows Key: Windows Key is used with all your running tasks in Windows. Such as: To open the search bar (Windows Key), it can also be used to start new programs and close open programs.

36 short keys of a keyboard which will be useful in File Explorer.

No.	Short Keys	Uses
1.	Windows Key + E	Open File Explorer
2.	Ctrl + N	Open New Window
3.	Alt + Tab	Navigate Window Holding
4.	Windows Key + Arrow Keys	Split Windows
5.	Ctrl + W	Close Window
6.	Ctrl + Alt + Tab	Navigate the Window Without Holding the Control
7.	Ctrl + Shift + N	Create New Folder
8.	Delete	Delete Selected Files And Folders Temporary
9.	Shift + Delete	Permanently Delete
10.	Ctrl + C	Copy Files And Folders
11.	Ctrl + V	Paste Files And Folders
12.	Ctrl + X	Cut The Files And Folders
13.	F2	Rename Files And Folders
14.	ESC	Cancel Operation
15.	F5 / Ctrl + R	Refresh Files And Folders
16.	Arrow Keys	Navigate Cursor
17.	Enter	Open Selected Files And Folders
18.	Press Respective Letters	For Selecting Files And Folders
19.	Ctrl + Z	Undo Deleted Files Or Folders
20.	Ctrl + Y	Redo Deleted Files Or Folders
21.	Windows Key + Lower Key	Minimise Or Split
22.	F11	Maximise Or Minimise The Active Window
23.	Windows Key + M	Minimise All Windows At A Time
24.	Ctrl + A	Select All Files And Folders
25.	CTRL	Custom Files And Folders Select
26.	ALT	Display Short Keys
27.	TAB	Navigate Elements In the Current Window
28.	Ctrl + D	Delete Selected Items Or Folders Temporary
29.	Alt + D	Select The Address Bar
30.	Alt + Enter	Open The Properties Dialog Box For The Selected Item.
31.	Alt + Left Arrow / Backspace	View The Previous Folder
32.	Alt + Right Arrow	View The Next Folder
33.	Alt + Up Arrow	View The Folder That The Folder Was In
34.	End / Page Down	Display The Bottom Of The Active Window
35.	Home	Go To Home Of Pages
36.	Page Up	Display The Top Of The Page

How to use a keyboard?

First of all, find out which keyboard you have.
If you have a PS/2 or USB cable keyboard, then connect it to the laptop according to the cable. Then when your LED is on, open any Word Editor Software and check by typing.
And if your keyboard is Bluetooth then turn on the Bluetooth of your device and connect your keyboard by adding a new device.
And if your keyboard is Wi-Fi, then first of all check the battery, Do Cell Battery is provided. Then you get a 2.4 Ghz receiver with a USB 3.0 port and connect it to the USB port of your device.
Then check by typing as per step 2. So in this way, you can use your keyboard.

Types of Keyboard Interface or Cable

All types of interfaces used in the keyboard are explained below.

AT Keyboard Interface: This is the oldest type of keyboard interface. It was used with IBM PC/AT computers in 1984. It connects with 5 Pin DIN Connector.
PS/2 Keyboard Interface: The PS/2 Keyboard interface was introduced in 1986 with the IBM PS/2 series, and is now used by all ATX and ATX-variant motherboards.
Keyboard Interface: Here the full name of the USB is Universal Serial Bus. This type of keyboard interface is connected to a USB port.
Bluetooth: This type of keyboard interface is connected to the device with Bluetooth.
RF Transmitter Receiver (Wi-Fi): The USB receiver given to it is connected to the computer or laptop with a USB port.

How many types of buttons are there on a keyboard? (structure)

There are the following types of buttons in a keyboard? Which is also called Keyboard Layout i.e. structure. Various types of buttons were used according to the times.

1) QWERTY Layout

This type of keyboard layout was created in 1968. This is also a standard keyboard. Because it is named QWERTY because when you look at the alphabet keys at the top of the keyboard, their sequence is QWERTY.

QWERTY keyboard is the most popular keyboard in the world. In which approximately 101-104 keys are installed.

This type of keyboard is used for general work. You can see this Keyboard Layout in your home or nearby.

2) AZERTY Layout

If you look carefully at the QWERTY keyboard, you will know that in the AZERTY keyboard, Q has been replaced with A and W has been replaced with Z. All other letters are normal.

The keyboard of AZERTY Layout is a French Version Keyboard, which is also called the French Standard Keyboard. This AZERTY Layout is very popular in Europe.

3) Dvorak Layout

This type of keyboard layout was introduced by August Dvorak. Since the QWERTY keyboard could not type faster, the Dvorak keyboard was designed to overcome this problem and provide speed typing.

Most professionals use the Dvorak keyboard layout for typing at typewriter speed. The arrangement of keys in its keyboard is fitted in such a way that there is fast movement of the finger.

4) Colemak Layout

This is the most modern keyboard layout. This type of keyboard layout is also designed for faster typing.

It is considered an upgraded version of QWERTY and Dvorak keyboard layout. In fact, with this keyboard, you can type scientifically at a faster speed.

5) Workman Layout

This is different from all the keyboard layouts given above. It is designed to be at the fingertips of the programmer or software developer. So that you can type comfortably.

Names of top 10 companies selling keyboards

Actually, you get different keyboards in the market. Some of them are expensive and some are also cheap. Keyboards of some top brands are also available. But do you know the names of the top 10 companies selling keyboards in India? No, you will know below.

The names of the top 10 companies selling keyboards are given below.

Microsoft
Logitech
H.P
Amazon Basics
Dell
Lenovo
Intex
Amkette
Zebronics
iBall

Learn More...

Conclusion

Today you got information about Keyboard from this article. As you know what is a keyboard? Who invented the keyboard? And how did it happen? Then how many types of keyboards are there? Know about it like QWERTY Keyboards, Mechanical Keyboard, Wireless Keyboard, Virtual Keyboard, USB Keyboard, etc.

Did you know again what are the parts of the keyboard? That is, to know about different layouts (structure) of a keyboard like QWERTY Layout, AZERTY Layout, Dvorak Layout, and Colemak Layout, etc. Then how do you use the keyboard? Know about whom. Along with this, you learned about 36 Short Keys used in File Explorer and also learned about the type of Keyboard Interface or Cable.

And finally, you also learned the names of the top 10 keyboard manufacturing companies, which are the top brands in the field of keyboard manufacturing. Hope you found this article about Mouse very informative.

I hope that you have liked this post of ours. If you have liked this post, then do not forget to share this post with your friends so that they can also get this information.

If you still have any questions or doubts related to the what keyboards? How many types of Keyboards etc., then please tell us in the comment below, I will answer all your questions and for more information, you can contact us.