5H

Keyboard Basics

• A keyboard's primary function is to act as an

input device
• Variety of tasks can be done by using a keyboard
– Prepare a document, use keystroke shortcuts, access
menus, play games and so on

• Keyboards can have different keys depending on

– the manufacturer,
– the operating system they're designed for, and
– whether they are attached to a desktop computer or
part of a laptop

• Most keyboards have between 80 and 110 keys – Typing keys: include the letters of the alphabet,
generally laid out in the
same pattern used for typewriters known as QWERTY Layout. Others layout:
ABCDE, QWERTZ, and AZERTY
– Numeric keypad: is a more recent addition to the computer keyboard, need
for speedy data entry
– Function keys: Applications and operating systems can assign specific
commands to the function keys
– Control keys: provide cursor and screen control. Windows/Apple/Linux
keyboards have extra control keys

Keyboard Basics Overview

A keyboard is an essential input device used to interact with computers. It allows users to input data,
control applications, and access functions through key presses. Here’s a breakdown of the key
components and functions of a keyboard:

1. Primary Function:
The primary purpose of a keyboard is to input data into a computer or device. It enables
users to perform various tasks such as typing documents, using shortcuts, accessing menus,
and even playing games.
2. Key Variations:
Manufacturer Variations: Different manufacturers may design keyboards with unique
layouts or key placements.
Operating System Differences: The layout and functionality of keys may vary depending on
the operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, etc.).

Printed using ChatGPT to PDF, powered by PDFCrowd HTML to PDF API. 1/13
 Desktop vs Laptop: Keyboards may differ in size and layout based on whether they are part
of a desktop setup or built into a laptop.
3. Types of Keys on a Keyboard:

Typing Keys: These include the alphabetic keys, typically arranged in the QWERTY layout,
which is the most common. Other layouts include:
ABCDE layout
QWERTZ (common in Central Europe)
AZERTY (used in French-speaking regions)
Numeric Keypad:
A dedicated set of numeric keys that resemble a calculator layout, introduced for faster
data entry, particularly in applications like spreadsheets or accounting.
Function Keys (F1-F12):
These keys are assigned specific functions within applications and operating systems.
For example, F1 often opens help, while F5 might refresh a page in web browsers.
Control Keys:
These keys help control the cursor and screen. Common control keys include:
Enter: To submit data or create a new line.
Shift: To type capital letters or access alternate symbols.
Ctrl (Control), Alt, Command (on Macs), Windows Key: Used in combination with
other keys for shortcuts (e.g., Ctrl+C for copy, Ctrl+V for paste).
Arrow keys: For cursor navigation.

This structure is common across most keyboards, though additional specialized keys might exist
depending on the device.

Inside the Keyboard

• A keyboard is a lot like a miniature computer

– It has its own processor and circuitry that carries
information to and from that processor
– A large part of this circuitry makes up the key matrix
– The key matrix is a grid of circuits underneath the keys
– When you press a key, it presses a switch, completing
the circuit and allowing a tiny amount of current to flow
through
– The mechanical action of the switch causes some
vibration, called bounce, which the processor filters out.
– If you press and hold a key, the processor recognizes it
as the equivalent of pressing a key repeatedly

Lecture 5: Input Devices

CSC 347 6

Inside the Keyboard (cont’)

Printed using ChatGPT to PDF, powered by PDFCrowd HTML to PDF API. 2/13
 – When the processor finds a circuit that is closed, it
compares the location of that circuit on the key matrix
to the character map in its read-only memory (ROM)
– A character map is basically a comparison chart or
lookup table. It tells the processor the position of each
key in the matrix and what each keystroke or
combination of keystrokes represents
– For example, the character map lets the processor know
that pressing the a key by itself corresponds to a small
letter "a," but the Shift and a keys pressed together
correspond to a capital "A."

Inside the Keyboard: How it Works

A keyboard operates as a miniature computer with its own internal processing and circuitry, enabling it
to interact with a computer system. Here’s an overview of the keyboard’s internal workings:

1. Processor and Circuitry:

A keyboard has a built-in processor that manages the signals generated when keys are
pressed. It also includes the necessary circuitry that transmits the information from the
keyboard to the computer.
Key Matrix: A significant portion of the circuitry consists of a key matrix, which is a grid of
circuits located underneath the keys.
2. Key Press Action:
When you press a key, it activates a switch that completes a circuit. This allows a tiny electrical
current to flow, signaling to the processor that a key has been pressed.
Key Bounce: When the switch is pressed, it may produce a small mechanical vibration, known
as bounce. This bounce is filtered out by the processor to ensure that only a single, accurate
keystroke is registered.
3. Holding a Key:
If a key is held down, the processor detects this as a repeated keystroke rather than a single
press, allowing the character to be continuously input (e.g., when holding the backspace key).
4. Character Map and ROM:
The processor compares the closed circuit (i.e., the pressed key) to a character map stored in
its read-only memory (ROM). The character map functions like a lookup table, matching key
positions in the matrix to specific characters.
Character Map Example:
Pressing the a key corresponds to the small letter "a."
Pressing the Shift key and the a key together corresponds to the capital "A."

This detailed system ensures that each key on the keyboard is correctly interpreted and mapped to its
corresponding character or function, even if multiple keys are pressed simultaneously.

Keyboard Switches
• Keyboards use a variety of switch technologies
Printed using ChatGPT to PDF, powered by PDFCrowd HTML to PDF API. 3/13
 • In Capacitive switches, current constantly flows
through all parts of the key matrix
• Each key is spring-loaded and has a tiny plate
attached to the bottom of it
• When a key is pressed, it moves this plate closer
to the plate below it
• As the two plates move closer together, the
amount of current flowing through the matrix
changes
• The processor detects the change and
interprets it as a key press for that location
• Capacitive switch keyboards are expensive, but
they have a longer life than any other keyboard -• Mechanical key switches include:
– Rubber dome
– Membrane
– Metal contact
– Foam element

Keyboard Switches: Types and Mechanisms

Keyboards employ various switch technologies, each with distinct features and functionalities. Here’s a
closer look at how different switches work, with a focus on capacitive switches and mechanical
switches.

1. Capacitive Switches

How They Work:

In capacitive switches, current continuously flows through all parts of the keyboard’s key
matrix.
Each key is spring-loaded and has a tiny plate attached to the bottom.
When a key is pressed, it moves the plate closer to another plate below it. As the plates move
closer together, the amount of current flowing through the matrix changes.
The processor detects this change in current and interprets it as a key press for that specific
location on the key matrix.
Advantages:
Longer lifespan: Capacitive switch keyboards are durable and last much longer compared to
others.
High-quality typing experience: Known for providing a smoother and quieter keypress
compared to mechanical switches.
Disadvantages:
Expensive: These keyboards tend to be more costly than other types.

2. Mechanical Key Switches

Mechanical switches are often used in traditional keyboards and provide tactile feedback with each
keystroke. There are various types of mechanical switches, including:

Printed using ChatGPT to PDF, powered by PDFCrowd HTML to PDF API. 4/13
 Rubber Dome:
These switches use a rubber dome underneath each key to register a press.
When a key is pressed, the rubber dome compresses, making contact with a circuit beneath
to register the keystroke.
Pros: Inexpensive, quieter.
Cons: Less durable, feels less responsive compared to mechanical switches.
Membrane:
A membrane switch uses a flexible membrane layer to register keystrokes.
The membrane layer completes the circuit when a key is pressed, often resulting in a quieter
but less tactile typing experience.
Pros: Quiet, cost-effective.
Cons: Less responsive and durable than mechanical switches.
Metal Contact:
This switch type uses metal contacts underneath each key. When a key is pressed, the
contacts close the circuit and signal a keystroke.
Pros: Reliable, durable.
Cons: Can be noisy, may feel stiffer compared to other switches.
Foam Element:
These switches incorporate a foam element to absorb key presses and reduce noise.
When a key is pressed, the foam compresses and signals a keystroke.
Pros: Reduced noise, better for quiet environments.
Cons: Less responsive than other mechanical switches.

Summary

Capacitive switches offer excellent longevity and smooth typing but come at a higher price.
Mechanical switches, including rubber dome, membrane, metal contact, and foam element,
provide varying typing experiences, from affordable but less durable to responsive and long-
lasting, depending on the type.

Each switch type has its own set of benefits and trade-offs, and the choice depends on personal
preference, budget, and typing needs.

Keyboard Interfaces

 Connects to PC
– KEYBOARD
– KEYBOARD CONNECTOR
 Inside keyboard a processor and circuit which carry information to or
from that processor.
 Keyboard controller is single chip contains memory RAM, processor
ROM(control operations of keyboard)
 Key matrix: row and columns made up wires and each key act like
switch
 Key matrix is grid of circuits when key is pressed the row wire makes
contact with column wire and completes the circuit . Key matrix passes
current to keyboard controller

Printed using ChatGPT to PDF, powered by PDFCrowd HTML to PDF API. 5/13
  Keyboard controller will detects the closed circuit and registers the key
press and controller read the key pressed

Lecture 5: Input Devices

CSC 347 11

Keyboard Interfaces (Cont’)

 KEYBOARD CONNECTOR
 Interface between keyboard and pc
– AT keyboard connector(DIN5)
– PS2 keyboard connector or
(MIN-DIN6)
– USB connector
 AT keyboard connector(DIN5)
– Uses 5 pins: KBDCLK(provide
clock pulse), KBDAT(send/recv
data), KBRST (reset keyboard
internal buffer), GND(ground),
VCC(+5v provides power to
keyboard)

 PS2 keyboard connector or (MIN-

DIN6): With 6 pins

Lecture 5: Input Devices

 USB keyboard connector : uses 4

pins VDC(+5V), DATA- it carries –ve
data signal, DATA+ it carries +ve
data Signal,

Keyboard Interfaces: Connecting to the PC

Keyboards use various connectors to interface with a computer. These connectors allow the keyboard to
send data to the computer and receive power. Here’s a breakdown of the key components and interface
types:

1. Keyboard Internal Components:

Processor and Circuitry:

Inside a keyboard, there is a processor and a circuit that manage the transmission of
information between the keyboard and the computer.
Keyboard Controller:
The keyboard controller is a single chip that contains both RAM and ROM.
RAM helps the controller store temporary data, while ROM controls the operations of the
keyboard.

Printed using ChatGPT to PDF, powered by PDFCrowd HTML to PDF API. 6/13
 Key Matrix:
The keyboard has a key matrix, which consists of rows and columns made up of wires. Each
key acts like a switch.
When a key is pressed, a row wire makes contact with a column wire, completing the circuit.
This allows current to pass to the keyboard controller, which then detects the key press and
registers it.

2. Keyboard Connectors:

The keyboard connector is the interface between the keyboard and the PC, allowing for communication
and power supply.

AT Keyboard Connector (DIN5):

This is an older type of connector used for AT-style keyboards.
It has 5 pins, each serving different purposes:
KBDCLK: Provides the clock pulse.
KBDAT: Sends and receives data.
KBRST: Resets the keyboard's internal buffer.
GND: Ground connection.
VCC: Provides power (+5V) to the keyboard.
PS2 Keyboard Connector (MIN-DIN6):
The PS2 connector is commonly used for older desktop keyboards.
It has 6 pins, allowing for communication between the keyboard and the computer.
It is similar to the AT connector but with an additional pin for signal processing.
USB Keyboard Connector:
The USB connector is used by most modern keyboards.
It has 4 pins:
VDC: Provides power (+5V).
DATA-: Carries the negative data signal.
DATA+: Carries the positive data signal.
GND: Ground connection.

3. How the Keyboard Interfaces with the PC:

The keyboard uses one of the above connectors to interface with the PC.
The connector allows the keyboard to send data signals to the computer via the appropriate pins in
the connector.
The keyboard controller registers key presses and communicates this information to the computer
through the data lines in the connector.

Each of these connectors plays a crucial role in facilitating data transfer between the keyboard and the
computer, with modern USB connections being the most common.

Keyboard Problems and Solutions

Problem Solution

The keyboard is

Printed using ChatGPT to PDF, powered by PDFCrowd HTML to PDF API. 7/13
 unresponsive.

•Always check the connections. Make sure they are firm and properly in their
designated ports.
•Keyboards are commonly connected to computers through a PS/2
connector or a USB cable
•Turn off your computer disconnect the keyboard and reconnect it. Turn the
computer back on.
•If your keyboard is still unresponsive, retry the following steps using a different
port (for USB only).
•If the above does not result in a responsive keyboard, you will need to contact
your technology coordinator for a replacement keyboard.
•NOTE: If your mouse and keyboard have the same connector, make sure you
did not plug the keyboard into the mouse port and vice versa. They are usually
color-coded.

Keyboard keys are

getting stuck or are
difficult to push.

•People do not realize but cleaning your keyboard is vital to keeping your
keyboard running smoothly and properly.
•To start cleaning a keyboard first unplug it or turn off your computer. You may
use compressed air on a computer keyboard as all kinds of dirt and dust can fall
in between keys. NOTE: Please read the compressed air container as it is
dangerous to spray the canister while on its side as it will release extremely cold
air that can damage the inner workings of your keyboard.
•Then spray alcohol, or a type of cleaner onto a cloth (NOT ON THE KEYBOARD
ITSELF. THIS WILL ALMOST CERTAINLY BE WORSE FOR YOUR KEYBOARD).
Individually rub the keys with the cloth for best results.

CSC 347 Lecture 5: Input Devices 12

CSC 347 Lecture 5: Input Devices 13

You want to create a
keyboard shortcut for a
command.

•Sticky keys are a type of shortcut developed by Microsoft that allows the
user to press one key for a command that normally has you pressing 2 or
more. For example: Instead of having to press three keys at once (such as
when you must press the CTRL, ALT, and DELETE keys together to log on to
Windows), you can press one key at a time by turning on Sticky Keys.
•To turn on Sticky Keys you can press the Shift key 5 times in a row. The
computer then shows a box with further instructions along with a loud
"beep".
•To turn it off you may press both shift keys at the same time.

Page Up/Page Down Keys

Are Locked.

Printed using ChatGPT to PDF, powered by PDFCrowd HTML to PDF API. 8/13
 •Your "Scroll Lock" function may be engaged. Press the Scroll Lock Key
once. Check the LED light on the keyboard to see it is off.

Letters are all in Capitals.

•Your "CAPS LOCK" key has been activated. Press the "CAPS LOCK" Key once
to fix this problem. Check the LED light on the keyboard to see that it is off.

Multiples of the same

letters appear when you hit
the key once.

•If more than one of the same letter or number appears when you press a
key once, this is called "key bounce."
•One way to decrease these problems is to reduce the key repeat rate and/or
repeat delay, in your computer's operating system.
•This can be decreased in the "Keyboard" section of the Control Panel.

Common Keyboard Problems and Solutions

Here are some common keyboard issues and their solutions:

1. The keyboard is unresponsive

Solution:

Check connections: Ensure the keyboard is securely plugged into the correct port (USB or PS/2).
Reboot: Turn off your computer, disconnect the keyboard, and then reconnect it. Power on the
computer again.
Test a different port: If you’re using a USB keyboard, try a different USB port.
Check for port mix-up: If both the mouse and keyboard use the same connector type, make sure
they are connected to the correct ports (usually color-coded).
Contact support: If none of the above works, contact your technology coordinator for a
replacement.

2. Keyboard keys are getting stuck or are difficult to push

Solution:

Clean the keyboard: Unplug the keyboard or turn off your computer. Use compressed air to blow
out dust and debris between the keys.
Note: Always spray the compressed air canister upright to avoid releasing cold air that could
damage the keyboard.
Wipe the keys: Dampen a cloth with alcohol or a suitable cleaner (do not apply the cleaner directly
to the keyboard) and gently rub each key.

3. You want to create a keyboard shortcut for a command

Solution:

Printed using ChatGPT to PDF, powered by PDFCrowd HTML to PDF API. 9/13
 Sticky Keys: Sticky Keys allow you to press one key at a time for combinations that usually require
multiple keys (e.g., Ctrl+Alt+Delete).
Activate Sticky Keys: Press the Shift key five times in a row.
Turn off Sticky Keys: Press both Shift keys at the same time.

4. Page Up/Page Down Keys Are Locked

Solution:

Scroll Lock: Check if the Scroll Lock key is engaged. Press the Scroll Lock key once to deactivate it.
Check the LED: The LED light for Scroll Lock should turn off if it is no longer engaged.

5. Letters Are All in Capitals

Solution:

Caps Lock: Your Caps Lock key may have been activated. Press the Caps Lock key to turn it off.
Check the LED: The LED light for Caps Lock should turn off when deactivated.

6. Multiples of the Same Letters Appear When You Hit the Key Once

Solution:

Key Bounce: This occurs when a key registers multiple presses for a single keystroke.
Adjust key repeat settings: In the operating system's Control Panel (Windows), go to the
Keyboard settings to reduce the repeat rate and repeat delay, which can help reduce key
bounce.

These solutions address common keyboard issues and can help ensure smooth and efficient keyboard
use.

Mouse

• Mechanical Mouse: Mechanical Mouse uses ball for the

movement of cursor on the computer screen. When the ball
is rolled in any direction, a sensor of the mouse detects it
and also moves the mouse pointer in the same direction.
• Optical Mouse: Optical Mouse uses Laser rays for the
movement of cursor on the computer screen. It is an
advanced pointing device. Movement is detected by sensing
changes in the reflected light rather than the motion of a
rolling sphere.
• Cord-Less Mouse : Cord-Less Mouse is battery driven and
does not need any wire for the physical connection with the
motherboard. It transmits data through infrared or radio
signal. ——Mouse (Cont’)
Ball-Type Mice
1. Switch detects clicks of left mouse button.
2. Switch for middle button.

Printed using ChatGPT to PDF, powered by PDFCrowd HTML to PDF API. 10/13
 3. Switch for right button.
4. Old-style connection to PS/2 socket on computer.
5. Chip turns back-and-forth (analog) mouse movements into
numeric (digital) signals
computer can understand.
6. X-axis wheel turns when you move mouse left and right.
7. Y-axis wheel turns when you move mouse up and down.
8. Heavy rubber wheel.
9. Spring presses rubber ball firmly against X- and Y-axis wheels so
they register
movements properly.
10. Electrolytic capacitor
11. Resistors.

Lecture 5: Input Devices

CSC 347 16

Mouse (Cont’)
Optical Mice

1. An LED at the back generates red light and shines it horizontally, from the back of the
mouse toward the front
2. A plastic light guide channels the light from the LED at an angle, down onto the desk.
3. A light-detector chip measures light reflected back up from the desk, converting the analog
movements of your hand into digital signals that can be sent to your computer.
4. The scroll wheel at the front of the mouse is mounted on a switch mechanism that detects
both how much it's rotated and whether you've pressed it (it functions like the central button
of a conventional mouse). Rotations of the scroll wheel can be detected in a variety of
different ways. Some mice use potentiometers (broadly, variable resistors), similar to the
volume control on a radio but able to turn around multiple times. Others use various kinds
of rotary switches or optical (rotary) encoders to convert analog wheel movements to
digital signals.
5. A microswitch detects when you press the right mouse button. There's an identical switch on the
other side to detect the left mouse button.
6. The USB cable connection carries digital information from the mouse to your computer.

Mouse Types and Their Components

1. Mechanical Mouse

How It Works:
A mechanical mouse uses a ball at the bottom of the device to detect movement. As the ball
rolls in any direction, sensors inside the mouse detect the movement and correspondingly
move the cursor on the screen.
Key Components:
Ball: Detects movement through physical contact with X- and Y-axis wheels.
Switches: Detect clicks for left, right, and sometimes middle buttons.

Printed using ChatGPT to PDF, powered by PDFCrowd HTML to PDF API. 11/13
 PS/2 Connection: Older mice used a PS/2 connection to the computer.
Chip: Converts analog movement into digital signals for the computer.
X/Y-Axis Wheels: Detect horizontal and vertical movement.
Rubber Ball and Spring: Help ensure proper registration of movement.
Capacitor and Resistors: Manage the electrical signals from the sensor.

2. Optical Mouse

How It Works:
An optical mouse uses laser or LED light to detect movement. Instead of a rolling ball, the
movement of the mouse is tracked through changes in the light reflected off the surface
beneath it.
Key Components:
LED (Light Emitting Diode): Emits red light that is reflected off the surface (typically under
the mouse) to detect movement.
Light Guide: Directs the emitted light down onto the surface.
Light-Detector Chip: Measures the reflected light, converting analog data into digital signals.
Scroll Wheel: Detects rotations (and presses) of the scroll wheel, often using potentiometers
or rotary encoders.
Switches for Buttons: Microswitches detect the press of the left, right, and middle buttons.
USB Connection: Transmits digital signals from the mouse to the computer.

3. Cordless Mouse

How It Works:
A cordless mouse uses battery power and connects to the computer wirelessly. It transmits
data via infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF) signals.
Key Components:
Battery: Powers the mouse without needing a physical connection.
Infrared/RF Transmitter: Sends data wirelessly to the computer.
Receiver: Installed in the computer to pick up the signals from the mouse.

Summary of Differences

Mechanical Mouse: Relies on a physical ball and internal sensors to detect movement.
Optical Mouse: Uses light (LED or laser) and sensors to detect movement on a surface.
Cordless Mouse: Operates wirelessly, typically via infrared or radio signals, and is powered by
batteries.

Each type of mouse has its advantages: mechanical mice are durable but outdated, optical mice provide
high precision and work on most surfaces, and cordless mice offer convenience and flexibility without
cables.

those 3types mouse difference in table

Comparison of Mechanical, Optical, and Cordless Mice

Printed using ChatGPT to PDF, powered by PDFCrowd HTML to PDF API. 12/13
 Feature Mechanical Mouse Optical Mouse Cordless Mouse
Uses a rolling ball to Uses LED or laser to
Movement Uses LED/laser for detection and
detect movement via X/Y- detect changes in
Detection transmits data wirelessly.
axis wheels. reflected light.

Connection Wired (USB) or wireless Wireless (Infrared or Radio

Wired (PS/2 or USB).
Type options available. Frequency).
No external power
No external power source Battery-powered (rechargeable or
Power Source source (uses computer
(uses computer power). replaceable).
power).
Requires smooth, hard Works on most surfaces
Surface Similar to optical mouse; may
surfaces for the ball to roll but struggles on shiny or
Requirements need a flat surface.
properly. clear glass.

Needs frequent cleaning

Low maintenance; does
due to dust and dirt Low maintenance; batteries need
Maintenance not collect dirt like a
clogging the ball and periodic replacement/recharging.
mechanical mouse.
wheels.
Prone to wear and tear of Longer lifespan as there
Depends on battery life and signal
Durability the ball and wheels over are fewer mechanical
reliability.
time. parts.
High precision, ideal for
Moderate precision, High precision, similar to optical
Precision gaming and detailed
suitable for basic tasks. mouse.
work.
Limited by the cord
Limited by the cord length High convenience due to wireless
Convenience length (for wired
and mobility. operation.
models).

Moderate to high,
Moderate to high, depending on
Cost Generally inexpensive. depending on the
technology and brand.
quality.
Most commonly used for
Obsolete and rarely used Popular for portability and flexible
Usage general and professional
today. usage.
tasks.

This table highlights the distinctions, making it easy to compare the three types of mice based on
features and performance.

Printed using ChatGPT to PDF, powered by PDFCrowd HTML to PDF API. 13/13