Devices Offering Great Solutions (DOGS)

Computer Keyboards

 

Different keyboards make it easier to type.

 

About Computer Keyboards 

 

A keyboard is a device used to type text into a computer.

What kinds of keyboards are there?

Ergonomic Keyboards

Ergonomic keyboards are designed to help your hands be better aligned while typing. They might be tilted or split in a way that lets your wrists rest in a neutral position. This can reduce strain, which is good for typists with arthritis, carpal tunnel, or tendonitis.

One-handed Keyboards

Keyboards like the Maltron or TiPY are made to be used with only one hand. If you have used a two-handed keyboard in the past, it will take practice to learn a new typing pattern.

Wearable Keyboards

The rings of the Tap Strap detect your hand movement to type using motion.

On Screen Keyboards

On-screen keyboards can accommodate a variety of access methods, including touch (like texting on your mobile phone), eye gaze, or switch control.

Large Print

Keyboards with larger buttons, large print labels, or color coding can be helpful for typists with low vision.

Keyguards

A keyguard is a cover that lies over your keyboard, with holes for each button. It gives your hands a place to rest. Keyguards can make it easier to hit the key you want, without accidentally hitting other keys as well.

Pointers

You might use a headstick, mouthstick, or stylus to touch the keys instead of using your fingers.

  

How can I find out what’s new?

Technology changes all the time. To find out about the latest options for these, you can type keywords into a search engine such as Google, Safari, Firefox, or Bing on a computer or tablet. These are the keywords for this type of item:

 

  • ergonomic keyboard
  • one-handed keyboard
  • large print keyboard
  • typing guard

 

How do I find out more?

If you live in the US outside of Pennsylvania, you can find your state’s AT program.

If you live in Pennsylvania:

  • you could contact TechOWL to work with a specialist. We can meet with you and sometimes demonstrate this equipment. We can also help with different ways to get one for your own.
  • you might borrow this equipment to try out.

Are these in Pennsylvania’s AT Lending Library?

 YES