KEYBOARD

A hardware device or software program that interfaces with a computer to translate data read by a device other than a keyboard, such as a magnetic strip or bar code reader or other such scanning device, into keyboard data. For example, data entered into a database via a bar code reader must first be translated into alphanumeric characters in order to be understood by the person interfacing with the database since humans do not read bar codes. The term wedge comes from the fact that the hardware device typically sits, or wedges, between the keyboard and the system unit. The keyboard is attached to the scanner, which is attached to processing component of the computer. Software wedges are programs that reroute the data once it has been input into a computer, typically through a COM port. The input data is routed to the keyboard buffer by the software, making it appear as if it entered the system through the keyboard. Keyboard wedges can be used simultaneously with keyboards.



Keyboard Diagram



Keyboard: A computer Keyboard looks much like a typewriter keyboard, except that it has extra keys. Practice lightly touching the keys instead of pressing or hitting the keys. Some of the keys are repeating keys and when pressed, will repeat the same action over and over.

The Function Keys (F-keys) perform specific actions. Different pieces of software use the Function Keys differently. The Function Keys are located across the top of the keyboard and are labeled F1, F2, …

There are three Modifier Keys on a keyboard: SHIFT, ALT, and CTRL. You use modifier keys in combination with another key(s). In general when you use modifier keys, you hold down the modifier key and tap the other key lightly.

Directional arrows (Right, Left, Up, and Down), also called Cursor Movement Keys are used to move the cursor around in the document one character or one line at a time.

BACK SPACE and/or DELETE are Editing Keys used to erase. BACK SPACE erases to the left of the cursor location; DELETE erases the current cursor location. For example, if my cursor is flashing after the "D" in "DELETE" in the previous sentence, and I press BACK SPACE I will erase in turn, the space, ;, n, o, … If I press DELETE, I will "draw in" the letters to the right of the "D" and erase the E, L, E, T, E.