Input devices II - SS1 ICT Past Questions and Answers - page 2

Advantages of Using an Ergonomic Keyboard:

Ergonomic keyboards are designed to provide a more comfortable and natural typing experience, reducing strain and discomfort. Two advantages of using an ergonomic keyboard are:

 

Improved Comfort: The design of ergonomic keyboards promotes a more natural wrist and hand alignment, which can help prevent repetitive strain injuries and discomfort during prolonged typing sessions.

Reduced Muscle Fatigue: The split design of ergonomic keyboards allows users to position their hands at a more comfortable angle, reducing muscle fatigue and tension that can occur with traditional keyboards.

Difference between Mechanical and Membrane Keyboards:

Mechanical Keyboard: In a mechanical keyboard, each key has an individual mechanical switch underneath. These switches provide tactile feedback and audible click sounds, making typing feel more responsive. They also tend to be more durable and last longer compared to membrane keyboards.

Membrane Keyboard: Membrane keyboards use a different technology where the keys press down on a rubber or silicone dome, which then compresses to complete the circuit and register the keypress. They are usually quieter but may lack the same level of tactile feedback and durability as mechanical keyboards.

Role of Function Keys on a Keyboard:

Function keys (F1 to F12) on a keyboard serve various purposes depending on the application and context:

F1: Often used as a Help key in many software applications. Pressing F1 provides access to context-sensitive help or documentation.

F2: In many systems, F2 is used to rename files or folders. In some applications, it might trigger a specific function.

F3: Commonly used for searching within applications or finding text in documents or web browsers.

F4: Often used to close the currently active window or tab. In some applications, it can trigger other functions like opening a drop-down menu.

F5: Frequently used to refresh the content of a web page or reload an application.

F6: In some applications, F6 allows you to cycle between different elements or sections.

F7: Sometimes used for spell-checking in word processing software.

F8: Can have different functions in various operating systems, including accessing the boot menu during startup.

F9: In some applications, F9 triggers specific functions, such as recalculating formulas in spreadsheets.

F10: Often activates the menu bar in many applications, allowing keyboard navigation of menus.

F11: In web browsers, F11 toggles full-screen mode. It might also be used for other application-specific functions.

F12: Frequently used to open the developer console in web browsers or access advanced settings in certain applications.