Computer Support Blog

The QWERTY keyboard layout debuted on the typewriter in 1873 and has been the standard for typing since that time.  This wide adoption was mostly due to the popularity of the Remington model of typewriter that used the design.  Due to the popularity of the QWERTY layout, personal computers also adopted it early on in the development of the technology.  Most have never questioned it due to the similarities between word processing on a computer and typing on a typewriter.  However, once the QWERTY keyboard became a standard for touch screen mobile devices, some disadvantages became apparent.  The confusing layout lost the advantages it had on tactile systems when transferred to the confined space on a mobile phone screen.  Since most users were only using their thumbs or a few fingers to type, the QWERTY keyboard was no longer optimal.  That’s why cool product Dextr wants to challenge the QWERTY keyboard standard on mobile devices and replace it with an alphabetical layout. Anyone who wants to try Dextr’s new style of mobile keyboard but has trouble setting it up on their phone can ask a mobile tech support professional to help them install this cool product. Read more »

With the recent underwhelming performance of Siri, it is clear that no matter how many “smart” devices technology companies create, the keyboard is not in danger of becoming obsolete just yet.  The keyboard remains an essential tool for interfacing with your computer.  As a result, typing skills are still an invaluable skill to have.  Adults, especially, may be reluctant to take a typing class for fear of feeling embarrassed at not knowing such an important skill.  For teenagers and adults who want to learn to type on their own, there is Typing Instructor Platinum software!

Typing Instructor Platinum is a comprehensive typing program that helps users master typing by breaking the process up.  Users learn to type in an academic section for part of the program, but move on to games that involve typing as they become more proficient.  In this fashion, the software guarantees that you will retain the lessons that the software initially teaches.  Typing is a more complicated skill to learn than some people understand.  While typing may be taught in an absolute sense (key positions and hand placements), the act of typing requires a higher level of abstract thinking.  Typing words and sentences is very different than typing individual characters.

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The current structure of most keyboards is neither intuitive nor mechanically necessary. The layout of most keyboards today is a remnant of the days of typewriters. The first typewriters had letters arranged alphabetically, but because hitting adjacent keys often jammed the machines, manufacturers rearranged the keys in order to distance letters that frequently occurred consecutively in language. The result was what today we know as the QWERTY keyboard, named after the first six letters on the top row.

We are so used to typing on the straight rows of QWERTY’s keys that an alternative way of typing probably seems impossible. But in reality, if you take a moment to look at your hands the next time you type on your keyboard, you’ll notice that your wrists are bent outwards. Most people never realize the awkward movement involved in typing on a keyboard. Human hand form favors typing at a slight angle. In fact, take a minute to look at how your wrists. Notice their awkward typing angle.

Learning to touch type can help increase your typing speed, reduce neck-related injuries, since you do not need to look down at the keyboard all the time, and increase your typing accuracy. Still, even touch-typing places unnecessary strain on your wrists. If you’re at a job where you spend all day typing, consider switching to an ergonomic keyboard, that is, a keyboard whose keys are structured to reduce the risk of Repetitive Strain Injuries associated with typing and to allow your wrists to remain in an more ergonomically sound position as you type.

Think of ergonomic keyboards as a means of supporting your body. We spend plenty of money on providing tech support for out machines, so why not get some for our wrists?

Ergonomic keyboards can range in price from affordable to very expensive, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a good deal. Many online websites offer discounts on ergonomic keyboards. Amazon, for example, is offering the Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 for under $30.00.

Most ergonomic keyboards provide added support for hands, wrists, and forearms by splitting the keys down the middle and positioning them at an outward angle to allow you to type more naturally. Some also elevate the keys in an inward curve.

Switching to an ergonomic keyboard might take some getting used to, though. After all, just like switching between playing the piano and the electric organ or between typing on an Apple keyboard and a standard keyboard, your fingers need some time to adjust to the heaviness of the keys, the different spacing, and the angle. Once the adjustment period is over, you will find that your wrists and hands are much happier typing at an angle.

Ergonomic keyboards work normally with any computer device that requires a standard keyboard and require no additional computer support. So take advantage of online sales, and get yours today.

About RESCUECOM:

RESCUECOM provides computer repair and computer support, 24/7: Meeting every tech support need including data recovery, virus removal, networking, wireless services, and computer support for all brands of hardware and software. For computer support or information on products, services, or computer repair, visit https://www.rescuecom.com or call 1-800-RESCUE-PC.

For More Information, Contact:

David Milman, CEO

315-882-1100

david@rescuecom.com