KEYBOARD

KEYBOARD is an input device used to enter characters and functions into the computer
system by pressing buttons or key. A keyboard is connected to a computer system using a cable
or a wireless connection.
How to use a computer keyboard
 Sit with good posture
 Center the keyboard
 Avoid resting your palms or wrist
 Use a soft touch
 Relax your hands when you’re not typing
Parts of the keyboard
 Alphanumeric keys – include the same letter, number, punctuation, and symbol keys
found on a traditional typewriter.
 Function keys – The function keys are used to perform specific tasks. They are labeled as
F1, F2, F3, and so on, up to F12. The functionality of these keys differs from program to
program
 Modifier keys - A special key (or combination) on a computer keyboard that temporarily
modifies the normal action of another key when pressed together
 Numeric keypad - The far right side of the keyboard features a number pad that resembles
a calculator. This pad is essential for numbers-oriented programs such as Excel, but you
also can use it to input numbers while typing.
 Navigation keys - These keys provide navigation through documents and help you scroll
in Web browsers.
.
Status lights – lights found on the upper right part of the keyboard. Each light has a name
from a particular key. If the lights are on it means the key is activated. Newer keyboards
sometimes have shortcut keys above the F Keys. These might include "Power," "Sleep Mode,"
"Calculator," "My Computer" and "Web." Some also include media controls for movies and
music.
 Notes:
 Long periods of time on the keyboard can cause injuries
 An ergonomically designed keyboard can help prevent some of these injuries
 Good keyboard practices can also help prevent injuries

Preventive Maintenance
• Disconnect the keyboard from the computer
• Vacuum the keyboard to remove any loose dust, crumbs, and/or debris
• A small brush can loosen some of the material.
• A can of compressed air can also help remove the dust
• Clean the keyboard with a mild glass cleaner or isopropyl alcohol using a cloth and
cotton swabs
Keyboard shortcuts
Alt+Tab ↹: Switch between windows
⊞ Win+D: Minimize or restore all windows
Alt+F4: Close active program or window
Ctrl+C: Copy selected item or text
Ctrl+X: Cut selected item or text
Ctrl+V: Paste copied item or text
⊞ Win+E: Display Windows Explorer
⊞ Win+F: Open the Search tool
⊞ Win+R: Display Run dialog box
⊞ Win+Pause: Display System Properties dialog box
⊞ Win+L: Lock the workstation
⊞ Win: Open the Start menu/Start screen
⊞ Win+L: Switch Users
Win+P: Change active display
Ctrl+⇧ Shift+Escape: Task Manager

Common problems of keyboard

Keyboard failure
PROBABLE CAUSE DIAGNOSIS SOLUTION
Keyboard is disconnected. Loose keyboard cable connection Reconnect keyboard. Check
keys again if there is no
improvement, replace
keyboard.

Certain keys do not function.

PROBABLE CAUSE DIAGNOSIS SOLUTION
Keys are jammed or defective. Replace keyboard
Keyboard is locked, no keys function.
PROBABLE CAUSE DIAGNOSIS SOLUTION
Keyboard is locked. Unlock keyboard

Keyboard cleaning
Why do we need to clean the keyboard? The computer keyboard is often the most germ
infected item in your computer. Often, it will contain more bacteria than your toilet seat. Cleaning
it can help remove any dangerous bacteria. Dirt, dust and hair can also build up causing the
keyboard to malfunction.
Procedure: Before cleaning the keyboard, turn off the computer or unplug the USB
keyboard. Not unplugging the keyboard can result in causing other computer problems as you
may press keys that cause the computer to perform an unwanted task.
Many people clean the keyboard by turning it upside down and shaking. A more effective
method is to use compressed air. Compressed air is pressurized air contained in a can with a very
long nozzle. Aim the air between the keys and blow away all of the dust and debris that has
gathered there. A vacuum cleaner can also be used, but make sure the keyboard does not have
loose "pop off" keys that could possibly be drawn up by the vacuum.
After the dust, dirt, and hair had been removed spray a disinfectant onto a cloth or use
disinfectant cloths and rub each of the keys on the keyboard. As mentioned in our general
cleaning tips, never spray any liquid onto the keyboard.
Substance spilt into the keyboard
Below are a few recommendations to help prevent a keyboard from malfunctioning once
a substance has been spilt within it.
If anything is spilt onto the keyboard turn the computer off immediately or at the very
least disconnect it from the computer. Then, flip the keyboard over helping to prevent the
substance from penetrating the circuits. While the keyboard is upside down, shake the keyboard
over a surface that can be cleaned later. While still upside down, use a cloth to help clean out
what can be reached. After you have cleaned it to the best of your ability, leave the keyboard
upside down for at least one night allowing it to dry. Once dry, continue cleaning the keyboard
with any remaining substances.
If after cleaning the keyboard you have keys that stick, remove the keys and clean below
the keys and the bottom portion of the key.
Finally, if the keyboard still works but remains dirty or sticky, try washing the keyboard in
the dishwasher.
If after doing all the above steps the keyboard does not function properly or at all, it is
recommended you buy a new keyboard.