6 Common Myths About Keyboards

Keyboards are commonly used to control computers. As you may know, they are rectangular-shaped “boards” with “keys.” When plugged into a computer, you can type by pressing these keys. Whether you’re trying to write an email or enter a website address, a keyboard will allow you to perform tasks such as these by typing. This post takes a closer look at 6 common myths about keyboards.

#1) All Keyboards Have 104 Keys

Not all keyboards have 104 keys. The 104-key layout is the most popular layout for keyboards in the United States, but there are smaller types of keyboards with fewer keys. Tenkeyless keyboards, for instance, don’t have a number pad, resulting in fewer keys. And keyboards outside of the United States typically feature 105 keys.

#2) Keyboards Must Lie Flat

You can use a keyboard by either lying it flat on your computer desk, or you an use a keyboard by tilting it. Most keyboards feature legs that, when raised, will tilt the keyboard with which they are used. Tilting may result in faster nad more comfortable typing. You’ll also have an easier time seeing the keys on your keyboard if you tilt it.

#3) Only Available in Rigid Models

While most keyboards are, in fact, rigid, some of them are flexible. Flexible keyboards are made of an elastomeric material, such as silicone rubber. You can bend and flex a flexible keyboard without damaging it.

#4) All Keyboards Are Susceptible to Dirt and Dust

Another common myth is that all keyboards are susceptible to dirt and dust. It’s frustrating when a piece of debris gets stuck underneath a key. You can try gently shaking the keyboard to see if the debris comes loose, but this doesn’t always work. The debris may remain in place, thus rendering the key unusable. Fortunately, some keyboards are sealed so that dirt and debris can’t accumulate under or around their keys.

#5) Can’t Use in Low-Light Conditions

Just because there’s little or no light, you can still use a keyboard. There are keyboards available that feature backlighting. They typically use light-emitting diode (LED) backlighting to illuminate their keys.

#6) The Travel Distance Doesn’t Matter

The travel distance of a keyboard absolutely matters. Different keyboards have a different travel distance. Travel distance refers to the distance that the keys must travel to trigger a keypress. A keyboard with a 4 mm travel distance means you’ll have to press the keys 4 mm down to trigger a keypress.