What Is a Keyboard? Computer Keyboard Definition
What Is a Keyboard? (Computer Keyboard Definition) GA S REGULAR Menu Lifewire Tech for Humans Newsletter! Search Close GO Computers, Laptops & Tablets > Accessories & Hardware 118 118 people found this article helpful
Unlike a normal key like a letter or a number, modifier keys modify the function of another key. The regular function of the 7 key, for example, is to input the number 7, but if you hold down the Shift and 7 keys simultaneously, the ampersand (&) sign is produced. Some of the effects of a modifier key can be seen on the keyboard as keys that have two actions, like the 7 key. Keys like this have two functions, where the topmost action is activated with the Shift key. Ctrl+C is a keyboard shortcut you're probably familiar with. It's used for copying something to the clipboard so that you can use the Ctrl+V combination to paste it. Another example of a modifier key combination is Ctrl+Alt+Del which can be used to shut down, sign out, access Task Manager, restart a computer, and more. The function of these keys isn't as obvious because the instructions for using it aren't laid out on the keyboard like the 7 key is. This is a common example of how using modifier keys can produce an effect that none of the keys can perform on their own, independent of the others. Alt+F4 is another keyboard shortcut. This one instantly closes down the window you're currently using. Whether you're in a web browser or browsing through pictures on your computer, this combination will instantly close the one you're focused on.
What Is a Keyboard?
Description of a computer keyboard
By Tim Fisher Tim Fisher Senior Vice President & Group General Manager, Tech & Sustainability Emporia State University Tim Fisher has more than 30 years' of professional technology experience. He's been writing about tech for more than two decades and serves as the VP and General Manager of Lifewire. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on February 4, 2022 Reviewed by Chris Selph Reviewed by Chris Selph Chris Selph is a CompTIA-certified technology and vocational IT teacher. He also serves as network & server administrator and performs computer maintenance and repair for numerous clients. lifewire's editorial guidelines Tweet Share Email Tweet Share EmailIn This Article
Expand Jump to a Section Physical Description Connection Types Keyboard Shortcuts Change Keyboard Options Frequently Asked Questions The keyboard is the piece of computer hardware used to input text, characters, and other commands into a computer or similar device. Even though the keyboard is an external peripheral device in a desktop system (it sits outside the main computer housing), or is "virtual" in a tablet PC, it is an essential part of the complete computer system. Microsoft and Logitech are some of the most popular physical keyboard manufacturers, but many other hardware makers also produce them.Keyboard Physical Description
Lifewire / Nusha Ashjaee Modern computer keyboards were modeled after, and are still very similar to, classic typewriter keyboards. Many keyboard layouts are available around the world (like Dvorak and JCUKEN) but most English language keyboards are of the QWERTY type. Other languages have different default formats, such as QWERTZ for German and AZERT for French. Most keyboards have numbers, letters, symbols, arrow keys, etc., but some also have a numeric keypad, additional functions like volume control, buttons to power down or sleep the device, dedicated programmable shortcut keys, keys that light up when pressed, or even a built-in trackball mouse that's intended to provide an easy way to use both the keyboard and the mouse without having to lift your hand off the keyboard. The 9 Best Keyboards, Tested by ExpertsKeyboard Connection Types
Many keyboards are wireless, communicating with the computer via Bluetooth or an RF receiver. Wired keyboards connect to the motherboard via a USB cable, often the USB Type-A connector, but some instead use USB-C. Older keyboards connect via a PS/2 connection. Keyboards on laptops are of course integrated, but technically would be considered "wired" since that's how they are connected to the computer. Both wireless and wired keyboards require a specific device driver in order to be used with the computer. Drivers for standard, non-advanced keyboards usually don't need to be downloaded because they're already included in the operating system. Tablets, phones, and other computers with touch interfaces often don't include physical keyboards. However, most do have USB receptacles or wireless technologies which allow external keyboards to be attached. Like tablets, virtually all modern smartphones have on-screen keyboards that pop up when you need them. Laptops and netbooks have integrated keyboards but, like tablets, can have external keyboards attached via USB.Keyboard Shortcuts
Although most of us use a keyboard nearly every day, there are many keys you probably don't use, or at least aren't sure why you use them. Below are some examples of keyboard buttons that can be used together to form a new function. Essential Keyboard Shortcuts for Better ProductivityModifier Keys
Some keys you should become familiar with are called modifier keys. You'll probably see some of these in the troubleshooting guides here on this website; the Control, Shift, and Alt keys are modifier keys. Mac keyboards use the Option and Command keys as modifier keys—see Windows Keyboard Equivalents for the Mac's Special Keys for more on that.Unlike a normal key like a letter or a number, modifier keys modify the function of another key. The regular function of the 7 key, for example, is to input the number 7, but if you hold down the Shift and 7 keys simultaneously, the ampersand (&) sign is produced. Some of the effects of a modifier key can be seen on the keyboard as keys that have two actions, like the 7 key. Keys like this have two functions, where the topmost action is activated with the Shift key. Ctrl+C is a keyboard shortcut you're probably familiar with. It's used for copying something to the clipboard so that you can use the Ctrl+V combination to paste it. Another example of a modifier key combination is Ctrl+Alt+Del which can be used to shut down, sign out, access Task Manager, restart a computer, and more. The function of these keys isn't as obvious because the instructions for using it aren't laid out on the keyboard like the 7 key is. This is a common example of how using modifier keys can produce an effect that none of the keys can perform on their own, independent of the others. Alt+F4 is another keyboard shortcut. This one instantly closes down the window you're currently using. Whether you're in a web browser or browsing through pictures on your computer, this combination will instantly close the one you're focused on.