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An '''ergonomic keyboard''' is a [[computer keyboard]] designed with [[ergonomics|ergonomic]] considerations to minimize muscle strain and a host of related problems<ref name="Healthy"> {{cite web|author=Michelle Magnan|date= April 5, 2007|title=Blueprint for a healthy workstation|publisher=The Calgary Herald | url=http://www.canada.com/ottawacitizen/story.html?id=a9e08095-6fc2-45bb-954f-1c4ccd738f1f&k=0 | accessdate= 2007-04-20}}</ref>.
Alert Lo, please don't kill me! An '''ergonomic keyboard''' is a [[computer keyboard]] designed with [[ergonomics|ergonomic]] considerations to minimize muscle strain and a host of related problems<ref name="Healthy"> {{cite web|author=Michelle Magnan|date= April 5, 2007|title=Blueprint for a healthy workstation|publisher=The Calgary Herald | url=http://www.canada.com/ottawacitizen/story.html?id=a9e08095-6fc2-45bb-954f-1c4ccd738f1f&k=0 | accessdate= 2007-04-20}}</ref>.
== Split keyboard ==
== Split keyboard ==



Revision as of 19:52, 20 February 2009

Alert Lo, please don't kill me! An ergonomic keyboard is a computer keyboard designed with ergonomic considerations to minimize muscle strain and a host of related problems[1].

Split keyboard

A "fixed-split keyboard" is a single board, with the keys separated into two or three groups, allowing the user to type at a different angle than the typical straight keyboard. The fixed-split keyboard is the most popular alternative to the straight keyboard, perhaps because many people are unaware that there is any other alternative.[2]

Apple Adjustable Keyboard is an adjustable split keyboard

An "adjustable split keyboard" has the keyboard split into several independent pieces, so the angle between them can be easily changed. Either of these types of keyboards may include elevated sections at various angles.

Other ergonomic keyboards

Other ergonomic keyboards have fixed, vertically aligned keys, so the user types with his or her hands perpendicular to the ground, thumbs-up. Still others allow a range of rotation and elevations. A few ergonomic keyboards do not have the typical one key per letter, such as a keyer or a keyless ergonomic keyboard.[3]

Cost

Simple ergonomic keyboards can cost as little as typical boards, or up to 2-3 times more. Most true split keyboards cost three to four times as much as typical computer keyboards.

Advantages

  • Reduces muscle strain and reduces chances of Carpal Tunnel syndrome.
  • After a user takes the time to adjust to this style of keyboard, these keyboards can make typing far easier, faster and less awkward.

Disadvantages

  • highly priced (though not necessarily so)
  • they take a little practice to get used to, and many people don't want to go to the trouble of adjusting

References

  1. ^ Michelle Magnan (April 5, 2007). "Blueprint for a healthy workstation". The Calgary Herald. Retrieved 2007-04-20.
  2. ^ Typing Injuries FAQ: Fixed Split Keyboards
  3. ^ orbiTouch keyless ergonomic keyboard