What Is a Keyboard?

Basically, a keyboard is a piece of hardware that is used to input characters, commands, and other text into a computer. A keyboard can either be wired or wireless. The main difference between the two is that a wireless keyboard communicates with a computer through a built-in transceiver.

The keyboard is typically made from plastic or other materials. The keys are large enough for an operator to press them by hand. They are housed in specific locations on the top part of the keyboard casing. They must be placed close together so that an operator can reach them without moving.

Each key has a plunger that is attached to a dome-shaped protrusion. The domes complete the electrical circuit when the key is pressed. The domes are coated with conducting material to complete the circuit. The key is then pushed back into its starting position.

Each key on a keyboard also has a spring that is attached to the switch assembly under the keycap. The spring is responsible for generating the motion that pushes the dome downward. The spring then presses the dome into contact with the keyboard matrix. This action increases the capacitance between the spring and the semi-circular conducting pads beneath the keys.

A computer's keyboard can be used for many other functions. Some of these functions include playing songs, accessing the Internet, and invoking multimedia software. The keyboard can also be programmed to activate power-saving modes for the computer.