Faculty Collaboration Database

Effect of keyswitch design of desktop and notebook keyboards related to key stiffness and typing force. Ergonomics 2006 Aug 15;49(10):996-1012

Date

06/29/2006

Pubmed ID

16803729

DOI

10.1080/00140130600577437

Scopus ID

2-s2.0-33745536695 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site)   22 Citations

Abstract

This study aimed to compare and analyse rubber-dome desktop, spring-column desktop and notebook keyboards in terms of key stiffness and fingertip typing force. The spring-column keyboard resulted in the highest mean peak contact force (0.86N), followed by the rubber dome desktop (0.68N) and the notebook (0.59N). All these differences were statistically significant. Likewise, the spring-column keyboard registered the highest fingertip typing force and the notebook keyboard the lowest. A comparison of forces showed the notebook (rubber dome) keyboard had the highest fingertip-to-peak contact force ratio (overstrike force), and the spring-column generated the least excess force (as a ratio of peak contact force). The results of this study could aid in optimizing computer key design that could possibly reduce subject discomfort and fatigue.

Author List

Bufton MJ, Marklin RW, Nagurka ML, Simoneau GG

Author

Guy Simoneau PhD Professor in the Physical Therapy department at Marquette University

MESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold

Adult
Computer Peripherals
Equipment Design
Ergonomics
Female
Fingers
Humans
Man-Machine Systems
Middle Aged
Surveys and Questionnaires
United States
Word Processing