In the last episode we talked about alternative keyboard layouts that included tings such as the standard IBM 101/104 and the minor alternations to that design to make the keyboard more compact and be usable in different situations. These designs have become the foundation for common gaming keyboards with upgrades to keyswitch technology, RGB lighting effects, replaceable keycaps, macro support and some are so advanced that they come with embedded SOC processors to handle the microsecond macro timings that help gamers get their edge in games.
As with most things related to human interface design you have designs that work well and compliment the interaction between you and your computer. We often talk about the shape of a gaming mouse and how the size might favor a “palm grip” or “claw grip” and while the sensor is important you will quickly find the mouse to be useless if you cannot move the thing around.
The same can be said for keyboards and yet 90% of them follow the inefficient straight QWERTY design that was established in the 1870’s (read: over 150 years ago). There is no denying that the layout works, it creates a compact square with every key easily accessible and is quite economical to build.
The one drawback of the design is that it puts you hands and wrists in an unnatural position that can lead to repetitive stress injuries in those who type on a regular basis. This is where the ergonomic keyboard designs have entered the market and while any of these designs can still cause repetitive stress injuries, they do reduce the chance by a larger margin.
Unfortunately, there are several problems associated with ergonomic keyboards.
- Ergonomic designs are rarely validated or regulated.
- Ergonomic designs often need to be configured for each person individually
- Certain patents make it difficult to improve on existing designs
- None of the good designs feature mechanical switches
In this episode the duo talk about mechanical keyboards and why it is so difficult to find a ergonomic design that is not only good but features game ready mechanical switch technology.
Related Links
Microsoft Natural Elite
Microsoft 4000
Microsoft Ergonomic
X-bows Lite Ergonomic
Ergodox
Kenesis Advantage Keyboard
Cloud9 Keyboard
Truly Ergonomic
Ultimate Hacking Keyboard
Studio.Bahm
Episode 135 featured music:
Little People - Start Shootin' (http://www.littlepeoplemusic.com/)
