What are keyboards for and what are the types that exist and their functions of each key?

0
74
What are keyboards for and what are the types that exist and their functions of each key?

An element that is essential when using a computer, mobile phone or tablet, is a keyboard; This allows information to be entered into the electronic device in a simple way. This article will explain what keyboards are for and what are the types that exist and their functions of each key.

What are keyboards for?

The keyboard is a peripheral data input device that is made up of keys or switches. These keys are composed of letter characters, numbers, signs and other special keys.

In computers or laptops, the keyboard is an external element. On the other hand, in tablets or smartphones it is an internal component, but you can connect a keyboard to these devices. However, you can connect an external keyboard to your iPad or tablet if that makes you more comfortable.

Keyboards are mainly responsible for entering information or text to the PC or mobile device. Also, in the case of computers, the keyboard is really useful to create commands that serve as shortcuts when using certain functions of the computer; for example, in Microsoft Windows the combination Control + Alt + Delete, Control + C or Control + V is widely used. When using programs like Excel, knowing the keyboard shortcuts can be very useful to speed up your work.

What are the types of keyboard that exist?

There is a variety of keyboards that adapt to the circumstances and needs of each person, here we will indicate each type:

  • Qwerty or conventional: it is the most used keyboard by most users; its name comes from the first 6 letters of its upper row and is made up of between 101 and 108 keys.

Types of keyboard that exist

  • Multimedia: This keyboard incorporates a variety of extra special keys. Among those keys you can find shortcuts to the music and video player, to the internet, to the volume control, among others. There are also keys for quick actions like putting the computer to sleep.

  • Gamer or Gaming: this type of keyboard is ideal for video game lovers, because it has keys that allow the development of the player; as, the famous hand lever or joystick that allows to control the axes of the movement. It also includes reprogrammable keys that allow the player to configure them so that they fulfill functions adapted to the needs of the game. However, there are also shortcuts that you can use with any keyboard to improve your skills in a game; for example, you can dodge hits in GTA 5.

  • Wireless: this keyboard contains a small antenna that transmits information by electromagnetic waves, without the need for a cable to connect it to the PC.

  • Ergonomic: it is perfect for those users who spend long working days using the PC; Its design allows you to relax your arms while writing on it.

  • Flexible: This keyboard is made of silicone or plastic so it is easy to wash. They are also easy to transport keyboards because you can roll them up and store them easily.

  • Virtual: they are also known as screen keyboards; This type of keyboard is the one that appears on the screens of mobile devices such as tablets or smartphones, but they fulfill the same function as an external keyboard.

Functions of each key

The most used keyboard is the Qwerty (conventional); It is divided into 5 blocks and each block has a group of keys that perform different functions. Before talking about the function of each group of keys, it would be good for you to check if you need to increase the response speed of your keyboard, and thus have a more optimal work.

Functions of each keyboard key

  • Function keys

These are the keys that serve as shortcuts when using the PC’s operating system; These switches are found in the upper part of the alphanumeric keyboard, identified from F1 to F12.

  • Alphanumeric keys

This block is the one that contains the largest number of keys; therefore, you can find the keys with the letters of the alphabet, 10 decimal digits, and the punctuation marks.

  • special keys

They are made up of three groups of keys: first, it contains the Print Screen, Scroll Lock, InterPause keys; second, it contains the Home, End, Insert, Page Up, Delete and Page Down keys and third, the 4 direction arrows.

  • control keys

These keys surround the alphanumeric block and are responsible for controlling various programs. These keys are: Tab, Caps Lock, Ctrl, Alt, Spacebar, Alt Gr, Shift, Esc, Windows Key.

  • Numeric keys

In this block you can find the numbers from 0 to 9, the keys to perform mathematical operations (/,*,-,+) and the key to deactivate or activate the numeric keyboard (num lock).

Knowing what the keyboards you use every day are for saves you a lot of time and you will use your electronic device more efficiently.

Previous articleWhat are the best programs to partition hard drives on Windows and Mac without formatting?
Next articleHow to Create a Facebook Cover or Banner Using Photoshop CC

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here